Ambush magazine volume 27 issue 24

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

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the "official" dish

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

Opal Masters to Reign as 17th King Cake Queen Over Passport to Versailles, NO GUILLOTINES PLEASE!

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he co-captains of the Krewe of Queenateenas have chosen Opal Masters to reign as King Cake Queen XVII of Gay Mardi Gras over Carnival festivities at World famous Ambush Headquarters in New Orleans. The queen-elect will be presented to Carnival society as The Parisian Queen on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the 17th annual King Cake Queen Coronation, which is by invitation only. The 2010 theme is Passport to Versailles, NO GUILLOTINES PLEASE! As King Cake Queen (KCQ), Masters will lead the 23rd annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss on Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday), February 16, 2010 from the Ambush balcony at 2pm. Only 50 invited guests are allowed assess to the bead toss. Due to balcony space limitations, no one else will be admitted.

The King Cake Queen is chosen from those revelers participating in the previous year’s Carnival bead toss at Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street. The individual exhibiting the most enthusiasm and expertise in bead toss techniques is chosen to reign as King Cake Queen. The co-captains announce their choice each November in Ambush.

The King Cake Queen Royalty Club, which is always included in the festivities, includes: KCQ II & KCQ Emeritus: Jewel of the Nile, Jay A. Loomis/1995; KCQ III: The Rainbow Queen, the late Smurf Murphy/1996; KCQ IV: Pearl of the Sea, Reba Douglas/1997; KCQ V: The She Devil, Elizabeth Simms/1998; KCQ VI: The Czarina, the late Christine Cheridon/1999; KCQ VII: Sex Goddess, Stephanie Williams/2000; KCQ VIII: The Peacock Queen, Phyllis Denmark/2001; KCQ IX: The Freedom Queen, Lisa Beaumann/2002; KCQ X: The Voodoo Queen, TerylLynn Foxx/2003; KCQ XII: The Amazon Queen, Savanna DeLorean/2005; KCQ XIII: The Diamond Queen, Raven Kennedy/2006; KCQ XIV: The Fantasy Queen, Princesse Stephaney/2007;

inside

KCQ XV: The Fleur de Lis Queen, Marsha Naquin-Delain/2008; and KCQ XVI: The Grandee Queen, Tami Tarmac/2009.

Visit GayMardiGras.COM for more on major Carnival balls and events, and GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ for more on the Krewe of Queenateenas' King Cake Queens.

World AIDS Day HIV/AIDS Physicians Conference in New Orleans Nov. 29-Dec.1

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orld AIDS Day 2009 will have special significance in New Orleans. This year, the city will be hosting hundreds of HIV/ AIDS doctors who will attend the three-day IAPAC 09 conference, co-hosted by The International Association of Physicians in AIDS Care (IAPAC) and The Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) which begins on November 29 and ends on December 1 (World AIDS Day). The conference will feature state-of-the-art information about HIV Clinical Management as well as HIV Prevention, Testing, and Psychosocial Support. IAPAC 09 will also serve as a forum for participants to consult with worldrecognized experts in informal discussions and panel sessions.

The Dr. Johnathan Mann Memorial Lecture will be delivered by Ambassador Dr. Eric Goosby, President Obama’s Global AIDS Coordinator.

“We are so pleased to bring this conference to a fascinating city that remains a popular tourist destination filled with historical monuments, amazing food, and a rich variety of stimulating activities,” said IAPAC President/CEO Jose M. Zuniga.

“We believe it provides the perfect setting for our colleagues to exchange ideas in a

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congenial, interactive environment.”

The conference is expected to attract caregivers from across the globe including physicians, pharmacists, physicians in training, nurses, psychologists, social workers, advocates, healthcare alliance coordinators, and allied healthcare professionals in the fields of HIV and AIDS. But planners say local New Orleans doctors will also benefit from having this prestigious conference in their own back yard.

The local physicians were asked to help plan the conference and will also present on topics related to HIV clinical management, including opportunistic infections.

Among the local presenters are Dr. Ronald Wilcox of LSU who will discuss hepatitis co-infection among those living with HIV and AIDS and Tulane’s Dr. David Mushatt who will present on HIV Clinical Management Challenges in 2009.

Kirsten Darbyshire, who works with the Interim LSU Public Hospital, says the conference will also give LSU’s doctors an opportunity to discuss a local program that has had success in providing comprehensive care to patients living with HIV/ AIDS. Established in 1987, the HIV Outpatient Program or HOP is committed to providing quality health care to adults and children living with HIV and AIDS, with an emphasis on health maintenance, promotion and disease prevention.

“The HIV Outpatient Program (HOP) has been recognized nationally for its innovative “one-stop shop” approach to patient services. Many of its dedicated staff continue to teach other providers the art and sciences of HIV and AIDS care,” said Darbyshire.

The multidisciplinary clinic provides services utilizing physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, ophthalmologists, pulmonologists, social workers, dentists, dental hygienists, health educators, nutritionists, pharmacists, phlebotomists, case managers, administrative staff and research staff.

For more information about the IAPAC conference, you can visit www.IAPAC.org.

To learn more about HOP, visit www.hopclinic.org or call 504.903.6572.

New Orleans AIDS Memorial to Commemorate World AIDS Day with Memorial Re-Dedication Ceremony

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he New Orleans AIDS Memorial Committee will be holding a re-dedication ceremony for the memorial on December 1st, World AIDS Day at noon. With the final benches and pavers installed, the memorial is now complete. Its stands as a reminder of the many lives that have been lost to this terrible epidemic and how HIV and AIDS affects everyone, regardless of race, sexuality or creed. That the memorial is finally finished after more than ten years since its inception, is a testament to the unwavering commitment of countless individuals and organizations that have stood firm in the battle against AIDS The New Orleans AIDS Monument is intended to provide a healing sanctuary for family and friends and to promote learning and understanding of the human tragedy of the AIDS epidemic. The Monument is a positive way to express the collective grief of those affected by this disease.

Now that it is complete, the Monument is

a public landscape where anyone who has been touched by AIDS can find comfort, grieve openly without being stigmatized, and experience feelings of hope that nature can inspire.

All are invited to attend the re-dedication ceremony on Tuesday, December 1 at noon in Washington Park. The park is located on Frenchmen Street, between Royal and Dauphine Streets. The dedication is expected to conclude no later than 1pm. For more information, please visit noaidstaskforce.org.

Just Eat It!

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urkey Day is upon us as we all give thanks for the many things bestowed our way over the past year. Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 26 and brings together families of [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] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 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, Tony Leggio-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon Weekley-Mobile, AL Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media~212.242.6863 AMBUSH Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2009, AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

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the "official" dish ...from 4 all kinds. While some of us are fortunate to have blood families that still welcome us for the holiday even though we are of the GLBT variety, many do not. But what is wonderful in our community is that many of our hangouts and businesses make us all feel as we belong to the special GLBT family on this special day across the country and in New Orleans.

There are so many places to celebrate Thanksgiving in The Big Easy. If you want to partake a great dining experience with great service, you might want to try one of the following two offerings with Thanksgiving specials.

Over at Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, Chef Mike Murray will lay out his 2nd annual Traditional Thanksgiving Day Feast from 11am-3pm. For $20 you can enjoy many of your holiday favorites on this all-you-can-eat buffet. Reservations and walk-ins welcome. Call 504.944.4445 for reservations.

The County Club is presenting Chef Coy LeBeau's "Give Thanks & Eat" holiday special complete with deep fried turkey, Andouille cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, corn maque choux, cranberry sauce and sweet potato pie. It's $30 per person, or you can get a take-out for two for $55. Call 504.945.0742 for reservations or take-outs.

If you find the club scene more to your liking, their are many presenting complimentary buffets, and your choice is endless. They will be listed by start times.

The first is at 12noon as manager Candise presents Le Roundup's annual Thanksgiving Buffet.

The next ones up are at 4pm. You can catch the Thanksgiving Buffet at Starlight

By The Park, and Thanksgiving Dinner at Tubby's Golden Lantern.

At 5pm, head on over to the Double Play for their Thanksgiving Dinner.

The 6pm hour brings the Happy Thanksgiving Dinner to 4 Seasons in Metairie, as well as the Happy Thanksgiving Dinner to Billy's in Slidell. Billy's will be opening early at 4pm.

But if you have the 'envee for sweets, you'll want to visit 700 Club at 6pm as they present their Happy Thanksgiving Complimentary Desserts.

It doesn't end there. The last complimentary Thanksgiving Dinner is celebrated at The Corner Pocket on Sunday, November 29 at 5pm.

Make sure and give thanks for what's been good for you this year, and by all means, thank the chefs and cooks everywhere.

evening will include a 50/50 raffle. In addition, a table for 10 at Bal Masque XXVII will be auctioned to the highest bidder.

For more on the Lords, visit LordsOfLeather.COM.

23rd Annual Art Against AIDS at The Shops at Canal Place Dec. 5

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n Saturday, December 5th, The Shops at Canal Place will be the setting for the 23rd annual Art Against AIDS holiday gala & auction. Art Against AIDS will, as always, feature incredible art, cuisine from some of the areas finest restaurants & caterers, stellar entertainment from Johnaye Kendrick and the New Orleans Gay Men’s Choruds and an open bar.

23 years ago Art Against AIDS was initiated by Arthur Roger as a sale of ornaments displayed in his gallery. In that first year over 1,000 ornaments were sold and helped raise over $60,000 for AIDS awareness and services for people affected by HIV and AIDS.

This year NO/AIDS Task Force is honoring the roots of this event by returning to the initial item that made this fundraiser a success: the ornament. Local and national artists will design and create original ornaments which will be available at our first ever Patron Ornament Sale.

The Task Force hopes you will be able to join them as a Patron this year, and be part of an extremely exciting and unique celebration. For the first time ever, your patron ticket will also guarantee you an original work of art. Included in the patron ticket price is one ornament from the Patron Ornament Sale. Ornaments will be available on a first come, first serve basis, so it is suggested that you arrive early for the best selection.

The Patron Party and Ornament Sale begins at 7pm and runs until 8:30. During this time, you will get to not only participate in the Ornament Sale, but also sample cuisine from some of the city’s finest eateries, enjoy complimentary cocktails and preview the silent auction and place early bids.

The evening will also feature a silent

auction with items and gift certificates donated by local merchants and retailers.

Tickets to Art Against AIDS start at $50 and can be purchased by calling 504.821.2601 ext. 216 or in person at the Task Force’s main offices at 2601 Tulane Avenue, 5th floor. Tickets may also be purchased at the door the night of the event for the same price. For patron party and ornament sale tickets, which are $200 each, please contact Heidi Chapman at 504.821.2601 ext 203. For more information, please visit noaidstaskforce.org.

LSGRA Sets Dec. 5 Meeting, Xmas Party & Beer Bust

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aturday, December 5 has been set for the Louisiana State Gay Rodeo Association (LSGRA) Board Meeting at 5pm hosted upstairs at JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields, New Orleans. The LSGRA Membership Meeting & Christmas Party follows upstairs at 6pm with the LSGRA Beer Bust 7pm12midnight downstairs. Visit LSGRA.ORG.

Lords of Leather American Bandstand Nov. 28

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he Lords of Leather take to the stage of JohnPaul’s, 940 Elysian Fields, for their annual production of American Bandstand on Saturday, November 28th at 8pm. This year’s theme is One Night In Nashville and you’re sure to see your favorite country western divas as interpreted by the members of the krewe.

If you’ve attended previous versions of this event you certainly know the Lords put on an outrageous and hilarious show.

If you’ve never attended, be prepared for an evening of the most unlikely performers you can (or can’t) imagine.

Admission is $10 at the door and the

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the "official" dish ...from 6

Community Center Founders Day Celebration Dec. 12 at JohnPaul's

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he LGBT Community Center of New Orleans invites you to its annual Founders Day Celebration on Friday, December 12, 7:30pm, upstairs at JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields. Tickets will be available at the door for $25 and $20 for paid members of the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans. There will be free food, cash bar and a champagne toast. Then stick around after the awards are presented to enjoy Marcy Marcell's Golden Age Revue downstairs at JohnPauls.

Traditionally, Founders Day or “12/12,” is recognized as the day, back in 1993, when the LGBT Community Center first opened its doors down on Rampart Street. This year celebrates the sixteenth year that the LGBT Community Center has been open and serving not only the LGBT community, but the entire New Orleans community.

Also, on December 12, 1991, the City of New Orleans Human Rights Ordinance was passed. This ordinance was significant due to it including “gays and lesbians” in the group of peoples whom the city deemed in deserving equal rights and non-discrimination. Later, in 1998, the city of New Orleans finally came around in extending equal right to “transgendered” peoples under this ordinance.

In 2007, LGBT in New Orleans historian Roberts Batson, while serving on the Board of Directors of the Community Center, suggested an event in honoring this historical date for all LGBT persons.

A need was felt in honoring some of the amazing people who worked so hard to make sure that the Community Center not only kept its doors open, but thrived as a part of the soul of the city. The Center also wanted to recognize people who worked hard everyday to ensure that the rights given to the LGBT community during that groundbreaking time are never taken away. The “Founders Day Award” was born! The first to receive this award for the amazing work that they performed on behalf of all LGBT persons were Steward Butler and partner Alfred Doolittle, and Norma Kearby and partner Betty Caldwell.

This year, the Board of Directors of the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans has decided to increase the amount of awards given due to so many amazing people coming together and working to ensure the rights given to the LGBT Community. On December 12, five different awards will be given in five different categories: Founders Day Award – Given to a past member of the LGBT Community Center who continues to work within the community, and closely with the Center, to ensure rights for all LGBT persons.

Media Award – Given to a person, persons, or organization

representing local media that covers LGBT issues and events in an honest light and which consistently works with and exudes a genuine respect for the LGBT community.

Medical Award – Given to a person, persons, or organization representing local medical consultation which consistently works with and exudes a genuine respect for the LGBT community.

Business Award – Given to a person, persons, or organization representing a business which consistently works with and exudes a genuine respect for the LGBT community.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Given to a person, persons, or organization who has committed to working towards a day when the term “LGBT” will no longer be needed and gay, straight, lesbian, transgender,

female, male, African American and Caucasian will all fall under one word to describe the entire population: COMMUNITY. Please join the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans and its Board of Directors on December 12, 7:30pm, upstairs at JohnPauls Bar to celebrate this momentous day in its history and give recognition to members of the community who have strived so hard in the past to get us to where we are today.

For more information go to lgbtccno.org or contact the center at 504.945.1103.

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Sweet, A Montage of Adventures

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f you have read in my last few articles, I mentioned there was a lesbian cruise leaving New Orleans on Sunday, November 8. Well, I actually got an opportunity to sail on this cruise. This trip was the inaugural cruise for Sweet, a company that specializes in lesbian travel. So, as a gay man what was it like to be on a ocean liner filled with lesbians. I have to say it was probably one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Before I go into the details about my amazing trip on the Norwegian Spirit, I want to show gratitude to a few people.

First I would like to thank my friend James Williams, who invited me to come on this cruise along with his sister Kim. He is the perfect traveling companion, witty and neurotic all rolled up into one. It was like going on a vacation with Woody Allen.

Second, I would like to thank the founders of Sweet, Shannon Wentworth and Jen Rainen who gave all the passengers on this boat one of the most fantastic trips of their lives. They truly are living up to their motto about changing the face of lesbian travel, but most importantly, I believe they are setting a new standard for

travel in the entire gay community. Their entire staff was wonderful and went out of their way to make each guest feel at home, especially Sara Jane and Flavia. And their public relations staff of Leyla Farah and Rebecca Heaps was an absolute joy to work with. It was sincerely an honor to be a part of this cruise.

What was my experience aboard the SS Spirit like. It was a montage of the Big Gay Sketch Show, the L Word and a little of the Poseidon Adventure all rolled up into one. My adventure began quite dramatically, but I am gay so how else should it start. Well, because of a minor little technicality called Hurricane Ida, we almost missed the boat, because we had to leave the dock early to get away from the weather. Running on board, right before they pulled up the gangplank, James, Kim and myself made it just in the nick of time.

The ladies were already in the life vest class when we were escorted on the ship.

“Do you think we should have learned how to do that life vest thing,” James asked me. To which my only reply “don’t worry, if this boat gets in trouble on a lesbian cruise and the captain gives the command women and children first, we are so screwed, we will never get on a boat anyway.”

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We checked into our surprisingly luxurious cabins, each with a large porthole situated above our beds. Once settled, we could not wait to get this party started so we went topside. Don’t you love my nautical talk, seven days on a boat and I believe I am Captain Ahab.

It is a wonderful sight being on the deck of the ship as it pulls out of port in New Orleans watching the life on the banks of

the Mississippi River. We did not hesitate to get our first cocktail, something with a tiny little umbrella in it, then we went to dinner at the Italian restaurant onboard, La Trattoria. Norwegian is a freestyle cruising vessel, which means you can eat whenever you like and sit with whomever you like. You are not tied down to certain [continued on 12]

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under the gaydar ...from 10 dinner times and seating charts like other cruise lines. I love this concept. And did this ship have numerous dining choices from the buffet open all day to the poolside grill, to the 24 hour hamburger joint called Blue Bayou. But it also had its share of fine dining, with the Windows and Garden Room dining rooms. In addition to the Italian restaurant they had a French restaurant called Le Bistro, a steakhouse called Cagney’s and a sushi bar and Asian themed restaurant called Shogun.

After dinner, we went to the opening show in the theatre by Suzanne Westenhoefer.

Suzanne Westenhoefer’s ground-breaking career as the first openly gay comedian ever, includes appearances on Letterman, HBO, Bravo, Logo and GSN as well as performances across the US in popular theaters, clubs, and fundraisers.

The welcome show was just a taste of coming attractions for the rest of the trip.

Then we all went up to the Galaxy of the Stars on the top deck for a welcome reception party. The dance floor was packed and the music was pumping when the first wave from Ida hit the boat out of nowhere.

Dancing took on a new meaning for me as you tried to maneuver your dance moves on a rocking ship.

Again James quipped, “bet you wish we took the life vest class now.“ My answer was to grab the girls who closely resembled Stella Stevens and Shelley Winters and we climb the Christmas tree. For those who do not understand this reference, rent the movie The Poseidon Adventure (and not the new one, that was garbage).

This barrage of swaying went on until

the following afternoon. There were lesbians down all over the ship as the crew passed out Dramamine like chicklet gum.

I was luckily spared from getting sick, I guess all those years of drinking taught me how to walk straight when the world around me is tossing and turning.

But after all the rocking of the boat subsided, the sun came out and stomachs calmed and all was good in the world. Monday night was the first of the themed parties which happened every night. Monday was the ever so much fun Pink Party, followed by the 80’s Party on Tuesday, which was my favorite one. The other late night parties included a Champagne and Bubbles or prom theme, a Sweet and Sassy theme and concluded with the final night which was a pajama and lingerie soiree. The DJs spinning every night were among the best in the lesbian community, such as DJ’s Dirty Kurty, Trina J, Euphoric, Saratonin and Ms. Jackson.

The entertainment aboard the boat was top notch with some of the best lesbian comics around today. First there was Suzanne Westenhoefer who did the opening and closing show. Her final night show was a non-stop, laugh out loud event. I can see why she is in such hot demand. Rounding out the list of the other great comedian were Erin Foley, Gloria Bigelow, Sandra Valls, Kate Mckinnon, Nicol Paone, Jennie McNulty and Amy Tee. All these ladies were funny, personable and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all of them. I found them all very down to earth, especially Nicol and Erin who happened to be on a few of my excursions, so we got to interact more.

And the comics were not the only entertainers on the ship, there had many

great musicians aboard. My favorite is Jen Foster who has some amazingly refreshing songs. Other talented artists aboard included Edie Carey, Jen Corday, Natalia Zuckerman and Adrianne. There was also some famous directors of lesbian and gay movies aboard as well as popular television and movie stars. I enjoyed meeting the wonderful Jill Bennet who is on one of my guilty pleasures, the show Dante’s Cove. It is a gay themed soap opera with lots of hot guys in not too much clothing. She is currently in the web series We Have To Stop Now, also starring Suzanne Westenhoefer and Cathy DeBuono, who was also on the ship. They actually filmed some episodes. The wonderful ladies form Cherrybomb, a web series on afterellen.com, were also filming a few episodes. Picture a lesbian version of The View. I was lucky enough to sit in on one of their tapings and saw them interview Dani Campbell from MTV’s A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila. She is currently making headlines again with the rumor that Tila has now come out and professed her love for the once firefighter.

But being the stargazer I am, my favorite sighting on the boat was Meredith Baxter, the mom from Family Ties, who was on the boat filming a guest spot on Cathy and Jill’s show.

The craziest of all the parties on the ship was the pool party on the final day thrown by Club Skirts which throw the Dinah Shore parties in Palm Springs every year. There were the hottest female gogo dancers I have ever seen in a while along with a wet tee shirt contest. They also had a New Orleans contingent of lesbians on the ship that brought beads with them, so soon the scene turned into

a Mardi Gras bead toss, so you can imagine I saw lots of skin. You have to love us New Orleanians, we believe that beads can solve most of the world’s problems (and get us laid).

But my favorite thing about the cruise was the Ports of Call. We traveled to Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Belize City and Roatan, Honduras. And you know the “When in Rome“ saying so I decided to do some of the same tours as the ladies on the boat. Now I like a little adventure, but these women are machines. I climbed Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya, snorkeled over the reefs in Cozumel, went air boating through crocodile infested waters in Belize then fed large iguanas, and off-roaded in an open air jeep in Roatan. For a second I felt like I was on Survivor, in fact one of the tours in Roatan was called Jungle Survivor Adventure. I am exploratory, but not crazy so I steered pass that one. Gay boys have a different perception of roughing it on vacation. Our idea of adventure is tackling a mall with only eight hours in port and still managing to get in a few hours on the beach for a tan, and trying to score with the waiter serving you drinks. I wouldn’t zip line in forty foot tall trees if Tarzan himself was waiting on the other side. Well maybe if I knew he had a margarita waiting.

But all kidding aside, these ports were spectacular. The beaches were pristine and the areas were soaked in history and culture. What Sweet should be recognized for is their eco-friendly stance on vacation. In each port, they arranged excursions where you can help out the local area. It is called voluntourism, where you come on vacation and use part of it to help [continued on 14]

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queen on the scene

by Nathan Brooks Email: Nathan@nathanbrooksentertainment.com

Gay Reality TV and Trampa!

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ord if you thought there should ever be a gay reality show, here we go! For everyone who noticed, or those who follow me on twitter (NBrooks2009), I took a small vacation from New Orleans for a week to travel to Tampa, Florida and join the boys of College Boys Live.com. The web site is Big Brother Gone GAY. 14 web cams broadcast the lives of 4 guys in the house both inside and out. This includes their bedrooms, showers, kitchen, living room, well pretty much every where.

During my trip, I was able to meet a great cast of guys and I got a new tattoo on my left wrist. It was a wonderful idea at the time but no regrets. I also got to experience a horrible thing called “Last Call” at

under the gaydar ...from 12 out the city. These ladies should be commended for not just their hard work and efforts to aid these communities, but casting a good light on the gay community in general. The volunteers helped paint a Children’s Learning Center, cleaned up beaches and helped out in a pediatric ward. Even in New Orleans, they went out to Bayou Sauvage and planted foliage to help curtail the erosion of our wetlands.

Now that is “Sweet.”

The staff aboard the Norwegian were first-class, from the captain, to Simon the cruise director. But my favorites were Mitch who made sure my glass was never empty and Amin and Timothy from the tour desk. What was also great about this ship is that when the staff got off work, they were able to come to the parties and interact with the guests. And, I just love interacting with seamen. The Spirit also had an incredible Cirque du Soleil style show called Elements. This was an amazing mixture of magic and dancing. Walking on a rocking boat is hard enough to handle, can you imagine doing trapeze stunts on one. The dancers also joined the guests at the party, and I was crushing bad on one hottie in particular called Toebin.

But what I am taking back from this cruise, is not just the memories of a fabulous trip, but some great friendships like with Val from Boston and Leslie from Denver. This was a ship with some truly remarkable ladies. Thank you “sweeties.”

For more information on Sweet’s upcoming tours like their Kenyan Safari in February 2010 and their River Rafting Trip in August 2010, go to www.discoversweet.com.

Holidays Around the Corner

T

he holidays are right around the corner and this city’s LGBT community are ready to kick it off right. The krewe of Satyricon is hosting two productions of both classic and soonto-be-classic holiday theatrical performances. The first is White Christmas on Wednesday, December 2 at Le Petit at

the bar. To think that a DIVA couldn’t get tequila sunrise after 2am! LORD JESUS! I was not happy! Oh well it's good to be home!

The Corner Pocket Still Top 10 in the Country

U

nzipped magazine has said it again and again! New Orleans ONLY Corner Pocket has been named in the TOP 10 BEST STRIP CLUBS IN THE COUNTRY! I went to the Pocket on Friday to have a little fun on the bar and it seems like you guys can’t get enough of the hot boys on the bar as it was PACKED from wall to wall! The boys there on Friday were probably the best I [continued on 16]

8pm. This show is being hosted in conjunction with several other krewes. Ticket prices are $30. Next up is Running With Scissors Silent Night of the Lambs at Le Chat Noir at 8pm on Friday, December 5.

Ticket prices are $25. For more information on these two shows, call 504.525.4498.

And the NO/AIDS Task Force’s premier holiday party, Art Against AIDS, is on Saturday, December 5 at the Shops at Canal Place, which is a great place to host an event. The patron party and ornament sales starts at 7pm and runs to 8:30pm.

Becoming a patron this year is better than ever. Not only do you help a worthwhile cause, but your patron ticket guarantees you an original work of art. Each patron will receive one ornament designed by local and national artists from the Patron Ornament sale. The evening will also feature a silent auction, cuisine from the city’s finest eateries, complimentary cocktails and stellar entertainment. Tickets to Art Against AIDS start at $50 and Patron Party tickets are $200. Tickets can be purchased by calling 504.821.2601.

Petronius' Queer Shopping Network

E

ven though Halloween had barely come and gone, the Krewe of Petronius kicked off their holiday festivities with their Queer Shopping Network auction and show.

Hosted by Bootsie DeVille, the event brought in lots of money for the krewe. The food was good and the show was wonderful with such notable entertainers like Marcy Marcell, ZsaZsa D'LaHor, Tami Tarmac and Cathy Fox. I got some great wreaths and holiday trees which have already been put up in my home. I thought it was time for me to get a head start on the holidays instead of the other way around.

For more information on the Krewe of Petronius’ upcoming events email kreweofpetronius@bellsouth.net.

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

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queen on the scene ...from 14 have seen in a while for NEW Meat Night. If you have not stopped by or you seemed to have forgotten to head on down to the little place on St. Louis and Burgundy and grope a stripper for me…..DO IT NOW!

Déjà vu

B

efore I get hungry I have to admit I have found my spot on Tuesday and Thursday nights! If you have not found this little place on Dauphine you need to! The restaurant has my favorite food…STEAK! Yes ma’am!

I know what you're saying “you can get steak anywhere, why there?” Well on Tuesdays and Thursdays it is $5 Steak night!

I know I am making you hungry and you are so happy that you grabbed this Ambush on the day it came out (Tuesday) so you can go tonight and tell them I sent you for a great steak and side. It doesn’t help that they have a cute cook either!

Tofer we love you!

OZ has the PLANS!

O

z GM Tommy Elias is always thinking of ways to make Oz a bigger and better show bar and his upcoming shows will be no different as he has promised on SUNDAY SHOW NIGHT to make his productions larger then ever before. How do I know this? Well ladies, it’s cause I will be gracing the Oz stage as one of the new fabulous back up dancers joining the girls. If you thought Halloween was big sista’, you ain’t seen nothing yet! Stay tuned to Oz to see more shows coming up soon.

Raven Kennedy Turns 21….Again!*

trodding the boards

by Patrick Shannon, III Email: nedcat@earthlink.net

I Am My Own Wife

“

Good Lord, that Bob Edes, Jr. has done it again,” whispered Jim Walpole, who was sitting next to me when Bob Edes, Jr. came out to take his bow at the end of his stunning and amazing tour de force performance of this one-man play skillfully written by Doug Wright, and tightly directed by one of the three best directors of local theater, Carl Walker. The full house gave him a much deserved standing ovation and wanted to see him on stage again for one more bow, but he did not come out even as the applause went on and on. I wonder why? He certainly had earned this acclaimation of an appreciative audience. Maybe he is just shy, or maybe he was just exhausted?

That night Bob Edes, Jr. (probably our town’s best actor) gave us a thrilling and moving performance playing a transvestite who lived in Berlin, Germany as a transvestite (i.e. in drag) at a time when this was not accepted and was persecuted. The play follows her life through the Nazi and Communist regimes.

Born as Lothar Berfelde, he used the drag name of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf. As a boy he was encouraged by his cross dressing lesbian aunt, Tante Luise, to follow his gown as it were. He did, and at fifteen he started living openly in women’s clothing. Bob Edes brings to life her story and tell about her museum of antique clocks, gramaphone records, and 19th century German furniture. She founded and curated this museum in a large stone house in Mahlsdorf, a suburb of Berlin.

Her passion for her museum was her focus and the passion of her life as Adolph Hitler rose to power, his defeat, the division of Germany into Democratic and

Communistic countries, and its reunification. During the Democrat-Communist era she was to be trapped in Berlin on the East German side - the grim repressive Communist controlled side. Honored by the reunified German government with its Order of Merit, its highest civilian honor, it would seem Bob Edes, Jr. that Charlotte von Mahlsdorf was a national heroine. The play offers a closer consideration as it would seem that some of her collection of antiques, clocks and various other artifacts were plucked from Jewish homes and businesses in collaboration with the East German Secret Police, the much feared Stasi. Like any good story teller though, she enthralls us with her tales: of her male lover who went to prison to keep her out of it, of her narrow escapes from oppressive Nazi and Communist authorities, and the love and good taste she had for her antique items. Items which it seems she stole, and later sold in order to survive.

Dressed in a dowdy peasant outfit (black dress, apron, babushka-like head scarf, and bulky ugly shoes all designed by costumer Elizabeth Parent), Mr. Edes, Jr. does a phenomenal job playing this role of Charlotte Mahlsdorf and forty other characters.

His German accent is impeccable - John Pope was the German Consultant. However, he had a tendency to speak too softly at times.

A bit more projection would be an improvement in a role that needs little; but we must and want to hear every word of the astonishing tale as Mr. Edes tells it via these astonishing roles.

Beverly Trask served as Movement Consultant to Mr. Edes as he inhabited the evocative Scenic Design of David Raphel with Lighting Design by Marty Sachs. Carl Walker’s direction was impeccable.

I must say, and I know my old friend Jon Newlin would feel as I do, that I was not too amazed by Charlotte von Mahlsdorf’s stories, surmising that a lot of them might have been hogwash and self serving. But who cares? So what if those marvelous, and at times heartbreaking fictions were true or based on truth.

However, they were no more or less remarkable than the stories once told me when I interviewed our local transvestites.

Miss Fury regaled and astonished me with her adventures and

I

would like to once again wish Miss Raven Kennedy a wonderful Happy Birthday as she turned 21 again, and her birthday party was amazing as it included the return of Teryl-Lynn Foxx! Every time I see this lovely lady I crave chocolate! LORD! Okay enough of that! The show was very exciting and included an extended cast of Oz performers all there for one reason to celebrate another year for Miss Kennedy and we are glad she is still kicking. Raven I love ya and wish you so many more!

Past Ambush Articles!

I

t has been so interesting lately to be grabbed by people in the community and told how well this article is working out for them and I wanted to take time to thank you guys because it shows that YOU ARE READING! YAY! I am so happy! Please continue to support our gay and gay friendly establishments cause they support YOU and help our community grow bigger and better every day.

I will be out and about ALL over New Orleans the next few weeks at a few events so if you got something coming up please email me at Nathan@nathanbrooksentertainment.com and if you have any pictures to events you can always send them to me. I love seeing the crazy things you boys do! Follow me on twitter at NBrooks2009. fables: one of which was when she was bitch of an inmate while serving time in the Louisiana State Prison in Angola.

And then there was Miss Ginger Snappe, whose Mafia relations ran her out of Buffalo, New York and sent her to New Orleans to keep her out of the way. Theater angel, Donald “Donnie Jay” James’ story of the infamous Rae Bourbon who delighted in telling how she defiantly posed for news hound photographers as she was arrested and placed in a New Orleans Police Paddy Wagon for cross dressing out of Carnival Season. And if you wish proof of this “fiction,” the pictures may still be in the Photo-Morgue of The Times Picayune.

The reason for telling all this, you may ask? Simple. If you want to hear some really amazing stories, talk to and listen to the drag queens who live in drag. Isn’t that true, Miss Newlin, La Madrelena? A local dry cleaner once confronted him when he brought a glittery, glamorous dress to be cleaned for an alleged “woman friend.” Not being fooled, the ancient female clerk looked at him wisely and said, “Yeah, honey, dis is yo dress, ain’t it.” But then again all of this may only be idle “girlish gossip.”

Don't miss I Am My Own Wife playing through December 6 at Southern Rep. Call 504.522.6545 or visit SouthernRep.COM for tickets.

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chop chop

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain www.ripandmarsha.com Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

New Orleans Restaurant/Deli Guide 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St., 561.1095, has just opened and is now serving sliders, paninis, quesadillas, and more at the popular club in the French Quarter. Restaurant hours are 7pm till Wed.-Sun. Visit 700ClubNewOrleans.COM. Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445, is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open 9am-9pm Mon.-Tues., 8am10pm Thurs.-Sun., closed Wed. MasterCard/Visa accepted.

Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., offers romantic courtyard or indoor dining along with both eclectic culinary creations and cocktails. Serving lunch and dinner, Wed.Sat. 11am-9pm, Sun. brunch 10am-3pm.

Call 412.8965 for reservations or additional information.

Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Call 598.1010 or visit CloverGrill.COM. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St. Under the direction of Chef Coy LeBeau, he has taken attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am3pm.

Visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM or call 945.0742 for more information.

The Embers Original Bourbon House, 700 Bourbon, 523.1485. You can still enjoy the charm and ambience of Old New Orleans while dining on fresh Louisiana seafood, great steaks, po-boys, and authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine and some Italian to make it interesting, all served on the largest balcony on Bourbon Street. Only two blocks from the corner of Bourton and St. Ann Streets, and the heart of Decadence. Lunch Thursday-Sunday 11am-3pm, dinner nightly 4pm-midnight,

Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops for fast food with tasty burgers, hot dogs and breakfast. Call 523.4030 for more info.

Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers. Open 7 days from 11am-10pm, call 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM. Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur Street, features New Orleans inspired Italian cuisine along with a wonderfully assorted wine selection. Experience Maximo’s open kitchen and watch Chef Thomas Woods prepare his extraordinary dishes. Open 7 days a week MondaySaturday 6pm til, Sunday 3pm till, call 504.586.8883 or visit MaximosGrill.COM for reservations and information.

Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am-5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days.

Call 522.6746 for info.

Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, is located in a beautifully renovated 1809 building offering a pleasant atmosphere, extensive wine list with over 350 selections and delicious food including prime steaks, lobster tails, and rack of lamb. Serving dinner 5-11pm daily.

The Pelican Club, 312 Exchange Alley, 523.1504, PelicanClub.COM. With its tasteful but comfortable ambience, The Pelican Club serves contemporary Louisiana cuisine specializing in seafood. The restaurant is conveniently located in the French Quarter on historic Exchange Alley, an easy walk from most downtown hotels.

Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, was voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year once again and is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the deli offers free delivery.

Tiramisu 55 Restaurant & Bar, 123 Carondelet, 581.3288, serves Southern, Italian and seafood specialties. Get breakfast, lunch and dinner here. Open 24 hours, take out and delivery is also available for the French Quarter and CBD.

Prime Rib with baked potato Sunday evenings at Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine

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big easy

paparazzi

The cast of Petronius' Queer Shopping Network Show: Bootsie DeVille, Cathy Fox, Tami Tarmac, ZsaZsa D’LaHor & Marcy Marcell

The ever lovely Princesse Stephaney at Big Daddy’s

B

elle Reve Executive Director Vicki Weeks, Cafe Lafitte in Exile Manager Jerry Billiot and Belle Reve Program Coordinator Michele D'Aquin celebrate at the 17th annual Red Party in New Orleans. Hosted by Neighborhood Bar of the Year Cafe Lafitte in Exile, the employee turn-a-bout show raised $3,800 for Belle Reve.

Over the past 17 years, the Red Party has raised almost $75,000 for charity. Visit Lafittes.COM for more on the bar. Watch for details on the upcoming launch of BelleReveNOLA.ORG in Ambush.

A very hot couple @ Big Daddy’s

Miss Louisiana Leatherette Cathy Fox & Barry @ JohnPaul’s for Petronius’ Queer Shopping Network holiday gala

C

utter's Jimmy Kilgour, artist Amie Davis and Cutter's Dudley LeBlanc stand in front of the works by Davis now on display as Cutter's November Artist of the Month in New Orleans. Last month's annual October Art in the Hood raised $2,000 for Buzzy's Boys & Girls. Visit CuttersBar.BIZ for more on the bar.

L

GBT film director JD Disalvatore, Comedy Central's Erin Foley, and Big Gay Sketch Show's Nicol Paone were just some of the celebs on the inaugural Sweet cruise aboard the Norwegian Spirit out of New Orleans. The cruise brought in some 800 lesbians before and after the cruise to the city with many spotted at Rubyfruit Jungle.

Melissa showing it all @ Big Daddy’s Ronnie & David flank sexy Corey

Kevin (aka Cathy Fox) made a friend @ JohnPaul’s

Celebrating the Saints win against St. Louis @ JohnPaul’s

W

innie Green, John Vignone and Therese Vignone celebrate at Buzzy's Twinkle, Twinkle All My STARS!, the annual turn-a-bout show at JohnPaul's in New Orleans. Under the direction of Fish, the gala raised $1,752 for the William Fanning Foundation (Buzzy's Boys & Girls). A donation of $1,500 from TJ Max brought the total to $3,252. For more, visit BuzzysBoysAndGirls.ORG.

Salon D’Malta’s Monica Malta strikes a pose @ Big Daddy’s

Hottie Adrian @ JohnPaul’s

20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Gaydar in the City ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

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Tony trying out for the role of a virgin sacrifice ...it could happen!

James, Sara Jane & Karen at the Sweet’s Sweet 100 Pre-Party before the cruise at the Hotel Monteleone

snap Heidi & Susan from Portland on the Cruise out of New Orleans

Rebecca Heaps & Leyla Farah with Cause+Effect at the Sweet Cruise Pink Party

paparazzi

Girls on the ruins of Chacchoben

Flavia & Les at the Sweet Cruise’s 80’s Night

Celebrants at the Bon Voyage Party for the Sweet Cruise

Sexy Dancer Toebin with Tony from the Elements Cirque style show on the Sweets Cruise

Even more celebrants at the Bon Voyage Party for the Sweet Cruise

Ghostbusters at Sweet’s 80’s Night

Rocky, Chris & Tony at the Sweet and Sassy Party

Tony feeding (tipping) iquanas (drag queens) at the Iquana Sanctuary in Roatan Honduras

Tony's little friend in Roatan, wishing all his boyfriends were this cute and friendly!

Wedding aboard the Sweet Cruise

Mayan Ruins Chacchoben

Sexy Club Skirts Dancer Poolside on the Sweet Cruise

Tony & Val flank Simon, the Cruise Director at the Sweet and Sassy Party on the Norwegian

Tony flanked by Amin & Timothy, his favorites from the Norwegian crew

22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Travelin’ Gaydar Style ~ Costa Maya, Cozumel, Mexico; Belize City, Roatan, Honduras ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

The Fanny Pack Love’s with Tony Cruise Ship Norwegian Star for the Sweet Cruise

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Jerry Scavo & Alternatives Madame Genes C’est Quoi

Hostess & MC Blanche Debris direct from Dance Club of the Year Oz

Miss IGRA ’10 Iona Doublewide & Miss LSGRA (Louisiana State Gay Rodeo Assn.) ’09 Elizabeth Bouvier

snap paparazzi

Bartender of the Year Jeff Palmquist & Wood Enterprises’ GM Ken Grandpre Charlie

Miss IGRA ’09 Aspen Vail & Miss LSGRA ’09 Elizabeth Bouvier

Paula Lane

Ella (DJ Myke) Aaron & La Mina Sterling’s Poncho LSGRA Pres. Lance Pippin & Central Canada Gay Rodeo Assn.

Pres. Mark Samuel

The Red Cheerleaders Corey & Josh

Lady DaDa (David)

A fan with Paulina David

Entertainer of the Year Coca

DJ Johnny Love

AlethaMan

Miss IGRA ’09 Aspen Vail, Miss Colorado Gay Rodeo Assn. Sally West & Miss LSGRA Elizabeth Bouvier

Mr. Bay Area Gay Rodeo Assn. ’10 Barry & Miss LSGRA Elizabeth Bouvier

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

International Gay Rodeo Association Convention in Toronto

17th Red Party @ Neighborhood Bar ofYear the Yearraises Lafitte’s for Belle Reve 17th Red Party @ Neighborhood Bar of the Lafitte’s $3,800 forraises Belle Reve$3,800 ~ New Orleans

Shawna

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the pink pastor

by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw Email: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com

Community

W

e are very quick to use the expression ‘Gay community’ or ‘LGBT community’.

This is not far fetched, or wistful thinking – there is indeed such a community, and it is more closely knit than many others, but again we need to accept that frequently this is a ‘gay men’s community’ or even a ‘white gay men’s community’, and that there are other, parallel ‘women’s communities’ and ‘African American LGBT communities’ and ‘trans communities’.

I understand how we have arrived at this situation, but from a moral and political point of view it is calamitous that it does happen. Instead of one voice we too often have several, or we have groups that hope to speak for us but conspicuously leave out one or more sector’s of our society – more often than not either the ‘Trans’ section or the ‘African American’ section.

Thankfully groups like the HRC and the Forum for Equality have put in a lot of work to rectify the wounds inflicted on Transgender folk by previous omissions and oversights, but almost all LGBT advocacy groups under-represent people of color and other minorities.

From a pastor’s point of view this is all very grim – 80% of American churches are

racially segregated, and overcoming that has defeated better minds than mine! The Big Easy MCC is indeed a mixed congregation, but it doesn’t yet come close to fully reflecting the demographic of the New Orleans area – we are still under represented in women, and as yet have no ministries catering to NOLA’s burgeoning Latino population. The common cultural ‘normality’ in this country, and many others, is whatever is most comfortable to people (men generally) originating in North Western Europe. That includes me, and combating this, and avoiding the assumption that being diverse is fine as long as everybody acts like Caucasians is a lifetime’s work. It is a lot harder fighting racism and oppression when you are in the position of privilege – it is easy to identify the problem when you are faced with it every day; but for those of us who benefit from white privilege it is often very hard to see where the comfortable assumptions end and the hardcore racism begins.

The gay community – male and female, sometimes fails to live up to it’s responsibilities as an oppressed minority – as an oppressed minority ourselves we cannot claim ignorance, we KNOW what it feels like to be dehumanized and

abused, we know better, therefore we must DO better!

This ‘doing better’ is not dependant upon other people living up to their responsibilities, if you want to change things then you have to model the change you want to see.

Ultimately, speaking as a pastor, all the labels we put upon ourselves are meaningless in the face of the loving God.

of veto, the right to put a stop to something by withdrawing their support is ending. In the future if we cannot be properly and fully multicultural we will find ourselves a footnote in history, one of those many groups who sat on the summit for a while then faded away. By abandoning our discomfort at anything that doesn’t sound or feel like us then we guarantee ourselves a place at the table.

Galatians 3:28

During advent we are going to be running two services at The Big Easy MCC – a solemn mass at 12.15pm and a praise and worship service (our main service) at 5pm. It is my hope that it will not merely draw those who find comfort in the worship they grew up with, but will allow people to experience something very unfamiliar to them. Most of my growth has happened when I have been challenged by difference, and I hope some of our traditional folks will find inspiration in a Spirit led service, and some of our more Pentecostal members will find inspiration at the mass. More than that – I hope that we as a community find inspiration in each other, and in our diversity.

T

here is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.

We might add that there is no longer white nor black, gay nor straight.

Too often we think it is safe to flirt with issues that threaten to devour us. We may pass comments about Mexicans without accepting that when we bite into that particular cake we taste a world of bitterness and grief. That poisoned cake includes racism, homophobia and every other form of hatred that has plagued humanity – nibbling at its edge is a dangerous business! When you lie down with dogs you generally catch fleas. If we, as a community touched uniquely by prejudice and violence can do no better than continue to parrot the racist nonsense we were brought up on, then what hope is there for the rest of society?

The world is changing. The attitude where the prevailing ruling class (that Northwestern European hegemony I was talking about) always demands the right

Rev. Clinton Crawshaw is the Pastor of the Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church in New Orleans. They meet every Sunday at 5pm (praise and worship service) at St. Matthews Church at 1333 S. Carrollton Ave., NOLA 70118 and from November 29th 2009 at 12:15pm (solemn mass) as well – ring or email for details. pastor@bigeasymcc.com, 504.214.4340. Sermons streamed online at www.bigeasymcc.com.

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by Toni J.P. Pizanie Email: psalmwrite@att.net

Sharing Political Speak

R

ecently I have been sharing feelings about my political activities with Barry Marino. I like making this space available to those who wish to make their feelings known. My dialogue with Barry started when I complained to him about my disgust with the general lack of respect for President Obama. I said that I was getting tired of trying to make a difference. Below is some of Barry’s response.

Barry: “Don’t stop hoping or voting.

Even if we don’t win, we can make it less easy for them." (Barry, I need you to explain who you think “them” is.)

Louisiana is not only a red state; it’s a talk radio state. Even in good old 2009, the Caucasian population is still out to “stick it to the blacks.” In an effort to keep African Americans down they will keep voting for the evil Vitters, Jindels and Bushes. Their blind racism, phony patriotism and extreme religious beliefs are more important to them than reasonable utilities and safe levees. They fear “big government” but have no problem having their employers rule their personal lives.

They go ballistic if a welfare mother buys a lottery ticket, but would have no problem giving all their money to a sleazy car salesman to build a new stadium, even though he has billions. Until these people wake up, we will never progress.

I really thought Katrina would have been a wakeup call. I mean G.W. Bush may as well have peed all over Louisiana from that plane. One would think that these people would see the light, but they choose to blame Blanco instead.

I thought the election of President Obama was a sign of hope. I’m afraid now.

Don’t be surprised if Sarah Palin winds up in the White House one day. Never mind that she couldn’t handle even one term as Governor of Alaska. She’s telling them what they want to hear. A very dangerous lady.

Toni: We’ve both lived in New Jersey, and their politics are not much or any better. What did you think when you were there?

Barry: “Yes, New Jersey is Louisiana’s sister state. Given a choice, I’d have to choose Jersey’s politics. There is a lot of corruption, but the people have much more heart. Louisiana is a very mean spirited state. In the wake of Katrina, I spent time in Dallas, Texas, Baton Rouge, New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut. You know who treated us the worst?

BATON ROUGE, a city seventy-five miles from ground zero. You would think that we asked to be washed out just to “ruin” their fine city. (It looks to me like it was ruined long ago.)

Fred (Barry’s partner who died after coming home from Katrina) and I were staying in a house my brother rented. A neighborhood woman saw me enter the house and called the police. I would have understood had she called and reported something suspicious, but she called 911 and reported a robbery in progress. The

BR Police came to the house, roughed me up, threw me on the ground and put a gun to my head. I was on the cell phone with my mom (at the time) and she was extremely upset. After my sister-in-law’s mother told them who I was, they let me go. You know what this stupid <BLEEP> told me? “You have to understand, we can’t be too careful with you people in town.” And my mother can’t understand why I despise that town.”

Like so many New Orleanians, Barry, his father and Fred had a difficult time during and after Katrina. Their treatment was far from good while they were away.

And it got worse when they returned. President Bush did a very poor job caring for this city and state while our local leaders were being blamed. The President and his appointees used us for photo ops without doing the job that would help us rebuild.

But this is old news.

I asked Barry why there was a huge lack of respect for President Obama. No matter how much I dislike our president, mayor or governor, I do try to show the respect their office deserves. Barry agreed that for years, he read my articles that voiced a need for respect during the Bush Administration.

Barry and I came to the conclusion that the mean-spirited attitude fed to the public and nurtured by the Republican Party is the greatest reason for the problems we have in our country. If these outstanding brains would realize that working together with respect instead of backstabbing, the country could grow healthier and more comfortable here at home and in the international community.

Forum for Equality

C

ongratulations to the Forum for Equality on the impressive job of bringing the GLBT and straight communities together with their organization of the Equality Rally at City Hall recently. Hundreds cheered speakers from all areas of the GLBT New Orleans’ community.

I must admit that my feet and knees were really hurting from standing with Fr. Michael Des Jardins and Ray Bates holding the banner from Church of Christ the Liberator while the hour long rally proceeded. We were only three of a dozen volunteers who stood to represent our churches and organizations with Pride.

Sadly, there were no TV cameras or reporters from the Times-Picayune present. Last year’s rally made a bigger impression on the citizens of New Orleans thanks to the coverage. Were they notified and just didn’t show up? I don’t know.

It would have been an outstanding step forward for the people of this city to see two City Council persons standing with us. Their speeches certainly impressed me.

I’m sure many will agree with me for giving credit to Mary Griggs for a job well done. The Forum has taken responsibility for the political momentum in Louisiana..

Mr. Ethan Mayo visiting with Miss Cie, along with his college companions @ B-Bob’s The two beautiful Paul’s

mobile

paparazzi

B-Bob’s Manager Bob Brunson & Show Director Miss Cie join one of the guys The stunning Miss Florida Continental Amy Demilo from Tampa will be returning to B-Bob’s New Year’s Eve

Timothy with his buddies visiting BBob’s from Pensacola

A Message from The LGCCNO:

I

f you are receiving this, it is because I believe that you can assist me in this amazing cause and contest! Attached is all of the current information pertaining to the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans’ 2010 Weight Loss Challenge. We are in full mode of putting the finishing touches on this contest for the Greater New Orleans Area. I am reaching out to friends, family, and leaders of other organizations and asking for your help.

We need to get the word out there!

Call the phone number below for the application for contestants and the rules of the contest. Please send this to anyone and everyone whom you think would be interested. The Community Center’s goal is to have twelve contestants for the January 10, 2010, initial Weigh-In and unless we get applications back at the Center, that will not be possible.

I thank you for your help and know that you can also feel free to call on me and the entire LGBT Community Center in the future for assistance in all community activities.

--Christopher J. Schlumbrecht, Event Coordinator, 504.459.5084

PFLAG

O

n the 10th of December, the New Orleans Chapter of PFLAG will host the National

The stunning Miss Gay America 2006 Nicole DuBois appearing @ B-Bob’s

Director of PFLAG. We would like to have a full house to welcome him. Our meeting place is at 1333 South Carrollton Avenue at Willow Street just two blocks from Oak Street. We begin the meeting at 7:30pm (sharp) so please be on time.

Since this is our Holiday meeting, there will be goodies to eat. If you would like to bring cookies, cokes, ice, cups or napkins, please let me know at 504.833.1712. I’ll try to arrange it so that we don’t have a case of coke and no cups to drink from. Someone usually brings a cheese tray or seven layer dip and crackers too. This is a good time to celebrate the season with new and old friends.

Organizations

I

f you have an event coming up, send me your information and I will print it here for all of the community.

I know we want to reach as many people as possible and hopefully you can get your message out here that some people won’t see elsewhere.

Reach the Market

Ambush

504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Nightlife By The Bay ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John

sappho psalm

GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29

Ms. Huntress being the lovely lady @ Jules Downtown John & Chris having a fabulous Sunday Funday @ Sound Factory

Show the love for these fellows right here @ Jules Downtown

In the words of Brodie, BUSTED @ Sound Factory

Even the REAL Ladies come out and play @ Sound Factory

These ladies were having a blast @ Jules Downtown

Don’t forget ‘bout the studs of the evening @ Sound Factory

HOLLA!!! from Sound Factory

Smiling just to say, we’re here for the party @ Jules Downtown Big hair, big fun, big 80’s Night @ Jules Downtown

NOLA in the house @ Sound Factory

The gentlemen of the house @ Jules Downtown

And they had a blast @ Jules Downtown One of the newest queens to make her debut out @ Sound Factory

acadiana

paparazzi Dil & Gurt even came to welcome New Orleans finest @ Sound Factory

Ms. Jake & Miss Gay Pride at Large 2009, Kiesha @ Sound Factory

Sharing good times is the best @ Jules Downtown

And of course, this is what happens...lol @ Jules Downtown

30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Fabulous & Big ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins

Buster showing these foxy ladies a good time @ Sound Factory

These ladies are ready for their close ups @ Jules Downtown

GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31

S

allons acadiana

hot tails of red stick

by Chris Perkins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: keebler_6984@yahoo.com

by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com

o with Thanksgiving just a few days away, let’s start things off with a question for everyone, when was the last time you stopped and was appreciative of something or someone? When was the last time you uttered the words, thank you? It seems that at times we become “to busy” to take a look at the world around us, and the reason, many simply may take things for granted these days. Are we too wrapped up in our selves and how we look, and who we are hanging around with! Whatever it may be that has us preoccupied, within these next few days, find a place where you can just have some quiet time, take a step back and see how blessed we all are, and how thankful we should be for all that has been given to us.

To truly be appreciative and thankful for what you have in your life then you have reached the stage of maturity that many long to achieve and an understanding of one self that for some, can never fully grasp who they are and if they are happy. As sometimes stated, you need a reality check, throughout your life as you grow and mature, your person and purpose in life may change and in order for one to maintain total self accomplishment, then you must stay in touch with you. Only you will know what is really going on, some may try to sway you with what they think, but how would they know what is really going on when they themselves can't seem to get themselves together and progress through what we call life.

One way to stay in tune with what I am saying by keeping a few things in mind at all times, and that you are the only one that can or will make you happy, you can be anything and do anything you set your mind to and that no dream is foolish, only does it become foolish when it is not allowed the chance to be! Each person has their unique talents and strengths that are there for you to be able to succeed in this thing called life. Life is short and it is what you make of it, but you and you only can make it, so be the designer artist you want to be and make it so it is the best. Always aim high, go for things beyond your reach and knowing that no one else can help you do it but you, set your mind to it and do it.

Also remember that we all work hard to be the person we are, and chances are, if you don’t like what we have achieved within us then more than less likely instead of putting down what we work on day in and day out, you may want to step back and think to yourself what it is that you need to do to make your situation in life acceptable to you, and possibly, what have you done to feel hatred towards another? At the end of the day when you lay down to sleep, it is you, listen how quiet the silence around you is, be thankful as you close your eyes for everything you did that day! The silence can be lonely, it can also be very comforting because you will hear the most in the most quiet of places.

So entering the holiday season, remember that no matter how bad you may think you may have it and how much better it can be, look at the world around you! Dream your dreams and follow your passions in life, they are what make you who you are, only hidden by your night slumbers and most inner desires. It is sometimes scary to let go of what we know in order to bring you out to the world and let you shine! You only have one life to live, so live it and let no one stand in your way though many will try, jealousy will surely never find their happiness, so just smile and show off your talent. At the end of the day and when you first open your eyes in the morning, remember to say thank you, smile at everyone, you never know when your smile may save a life, and thank them if they smile back at your smile, that will help them learn to appreciate that one day like none other.

Being the holiday season as well, many will head home for the family, which means that Lafayette will start seeing familiar faces. So head out for next couple of weeks as Sound Factory and Jules Downtown shift into full gear to welcome back our family that has moved and as always both will turn it loud, we will sing it proud, and party till we just simply cannot go anymore. So get ready for one end of November, Happy Thanksgiving, truly fantastic party. Holidays simply mean we will have more people to have a good time with. Happy Thanksgiving guys, hope you and your

All In A Name

I

suppose some of you noticed that I wrote up Joy’s decorations at Hound Dogs in my last column. However, how many of you noticed that I called it the Time Zone. I guess you would have to say that I had a senior moment, and if you didn’t catch it when you read it, then you have the senior moment problem.

I will officially apologize now for doing this. After all, I talked with James and Kyle right before I came home and started the column.

I have no idea what prompted me to call the place by its previous name. My goodness!

I don’t believe I ever did this when writing up Splash, and look how many names have passed through that structure. Right now, I would have to think about this and would probably still leave one or two out. I do have to say that no one in the past has done as much to improve this dance emporium the way Jeff and Cory have. I’m always amazed at what is done each month and sometimes every couple of weeks. It’s as if they are trying to surprise me, but I know that isn’t it. They just want everyone visiting here to know that Splash is one of the biggest and the best of any dance club in the Deep South.

Now George’s is a different story altogether. It has never changed its name or ownership. It actually did when George passed away, but it still continued with that gorgeous stud from Montpelier at the helm. Richard just slid right in there and continued things without missing a beat. It was a wonderful place to pass some fun times, and it still is. It’s also the oldest bar in the city, and not many cities can claim such. So many gay bars are here today and gone tomorrow. George’s has continued to be the place with the personal touch for many years, and hopefully this will never change.

I suppose that if I had to pick a bar that fell from grace because of mismanagement, I would have to say that this would be the old Mirror Lounge. There are so many times that I recall this place when passing by the newsstand on North Boulevard. If memory serves me correctly, this was the original spot. It was never the same when it moved around to Third Street although there were some periods of time when it tried to get back its former glory. family have a good one, be safe and have fun, me and my camera will see you all at one or the other and my camera will be with me the entire time, so keep your game face on.

Getting back to the way it was never happened to the old Dixie Inn. I liked to refer to it as the bar under the hill. That was a neat place to stop and drink and chat. It was a comfortable bar with nice bartenders, but then one day it was just no longer there. There is still that empty space at the end of North Boulevard where it meets the Great River Road. I’m not sure what happened to it other than maybe changing hands or the owner passing away. I do know that one of the bartenders used to meet at the shoe store on Third Street.

Now what was the name of that business? The guys were always sitting around enjoying nice conversations.

Many of you may recall the old J.C. Penney building (where one of the new state buildings is now located). The old building was torn down and the new structure built, but also on the same block was the Toddle House. I can still remember how good their pies were. Time has a way of changing things drastically. Even weather conditions can do this. Look what Gustav did last year. It destroyed the old Boyd oak on the State Capitol grounds, and it just doesn’t look the same without it. I really miss walking under those lowhanging branches covered with Spanish moss. I know there is another oak there to replace it, but it will take a hundred years for it to even get close to the old Boyd Oak. Can’t you just feature Zachary Taylor standing under that old tree? There was another old oak tree down near Spanish Town Road in front of the Capitol, and it was taken down several years ago. With the loss of these two trees, the grounds are just lopsided.

But I digress, and I need to get back [continued on 39]

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33

red stick paparazzi

Paul & Johnny from Hound Dogs Sexy Joseph with Richard

Jared & Philip

Jared, Michael & Luther

Having fun at George’s Chansley & Luther Now this takes talent

Spanish Town Robert

Scotti & Dwayne Philip does karaoke

Rocky & Scotti doing karaoke

Phil & John

Jared & Andy Dwayne & Cody Richard with Splash’s Trixxie

Walking the bar

Richard & Miss DIVA 2010

Celebrating Cody’s birthday

Devlin at Splash

34 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Talent, Karaoke, Birthdays ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Cody King

alexandria

paparazzi

Lucinda Majors looking fabulous

John David, Gia & Lady D

Jared & Dominique

Krewe of Divas

Sable does the Bunny Hop

Gia’s Sordid Lives

Marsheya looking smokin’!

Lady D & Rachel Monroe

Leather and Lesbians!!!

GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

Fabulous & Smokin’ at Olympus ~ Alexandria, Louisiana

The new Miss Gay Northwest Chica Larouge

CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

600

RAMPART

500 TOULOUSE

BURGUNDY

ROYAL

ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

400

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300 ESPLANADE

classifieds

1800 19 FR EL YS IA N

M AR IG NY

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

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FI EL D S RT PA M RA

Metairie, LA [504] WALKER ACURA, 8951 Veterans Blvd., 464.4004, WalkerAcura.COM

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

body rubs 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 [is2409]

bookstores 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

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

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

autos

NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450, NapoleonsItch.COM OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, PhoenixNewOrleans.COM RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St., 373.5431, NOLAJungle.COM SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156 STARLIGHT BY THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 561.8939, StarlightByThePark.COM TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860 Shreveport, LA [318] CENTRAL STATION, 1025 Marshall St., 222.2216 KORNER LOUNGE, 800 Louisiana, 71101; 222.9796 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

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 ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340

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

circuit/events Dec. 30, 2009-Jan. 3, 2010, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 12-16, 2010, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored

by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 27-31, 2010, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM June 3-6, 2010, One Mighty Weekend,. Orlando, Florida, sponsored by Ambush, OneMightyWeekend.COM 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 Oct. 28-31, 2010, Halloween 27, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.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

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

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

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

guides 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

hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Dauphine St., 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782 OFADEAN SALONSPA & WELLNESS CENTER, 536 Bienville St., 522.3318, ofadeansalonspa.com SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur St., 565.5555, salondmalta.com

lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/ FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, theburgundy.com, Email us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double.

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

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: 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

[is2409]

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

GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

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

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc.

Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITANCOMMUNITYCHURCHOF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OFAPOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504]

ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 828.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday Worship at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, p a s t o r @ b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , www.bigeasymcc.com

BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG 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 FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.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 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 OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 TAU HOUSE MINISTRIES, 1029 Governor Nicholls, 70116, roddyssnd@aol.com, 529.3569. Mass on Sunday 4:15pm; Vespers on Monday, Wednesday, Friday 6pm. Everyone is welcome!

VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] KREWE OF APOLLO/SHREVEPORT, PO Box 4918, 71134 PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCAAIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717

pets New Orleans, LA [504] CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 511 Dumaine; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845 DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455

pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312

photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com

plumbers New Orleans, LA [504] AVALON PLUMBING, residential & commercial repair & remodeling, call Michael 237.0888 RAMSEY PLUMBING, repairs, repipe, sewer & drain cleaning, water heaters, disposals, 296.6865

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

real estate 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] 700 CLUB RESTAURANT, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM 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] B.BETTER DAY SPA & SALON, 5601 Tchoupitoulas St., 895.2760, bbetter.org 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

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hot tails of red stick ...from 32 to bars and things like that. They come and they go. Owners come and go. Thank goodness we have Kyle and James, Guy and Richard, and Jeff and Cory. They are the ones holding the gay community in Baton Rouge together. I congratulate them and wish them more years and years of success. Red Stick would not be the same without them.

The Name of the Game

F

riendship is the name of the game when it comes to having fun - past, present, and future.

What would I ever do without my Colla boy or BC Boy? And there is also my good old buddy TTT, and also Little John, who is so happy with his Phil. Kevin is my travel companion. Sam is my theater companion. Danny is my flower buddy, but he is also a friend who has done so much for me. It may not be what you think, but a kind word or a trust between individuals is something very rare. I have to add Cass to this list too. Gerry is my special friend who I love to dine with, and it is Luther who completes this triangle.

Some of these people I have known for years. Others are relatively new when it comes to counting years, but the bottom line is that there is a comfort zone here that makes it what it is - a good connection, a lasting friendship. This is what everyone should have.

Sometimes this happens with neighbors, and a good example of trust and friendship can be attributed to Robert and Brandon. It’s a matter of knowing someone is there if you need them. Josie, Claudette, and Debbie are nearby as is David and the doctor. Robert is also very close around the corner, and Jeannie is just a phone call or email away - sometimes just a bar away. And I cherish the day that Joseph walked into my life. I remember it quite well. Do you, sweetie? Just think about where you would be if you had to move elsewhere. You would have to start all over again -new friends, new relationships, new neighbors. Maybe I just like continuity. Don’t you?

You can’t really leave out friends in other areas, but then again, the distance is not always in your favor. I think the internet has improved this a lot. Now I don’t have to go to Ft. Lauderdale to see Eddie or Farmer Brown (I love that title!).

John is just over there in California, and Mark and John are in New Orleans. The Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 SOUTHERN REP THEATRE, Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 3rd Floor, 522.6545, SouthernRep.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

Crescent City is loaded with my friends and probably your friends too - like Mina, Kevin, Barry, Tommy, Rip, Marsha, Toni, George, Danny, Ernie, and so many others. Just thinking of these friendships is a call to hurry back for a visit.

The Name, The Name

R

emember that TV series where the little guy exclaimed “Da Plane, Da Plane?” Well that definitely applies to people. Names can mean a lot, and when you know a friend with a beautiful name, it is a special thing indeed.

Take Colla, for instance. This youngster is just one of the most precious friends anyone could possibly have. I have known him for so many years, yet it seems as if it was only yesterday. Even though I don’t see him as much anymore, he still remains close in memory and in e-mails or reports from friends. Colla is so gorgeous - head to toe and all points in between, especially between. Goodness! Be still my heart! Top to bottom, he is just a magnificent hunk of manhood. I really love this one.

Mina is another name that pops into my mind. I don’t know why, but I have always had so much respect for this sweetheart. Maybe she is a rogue. I like that word. It is a positive way of saying how unique one can be, and I just want you to know that Mina is a very unique and wonderful friend. She is a good example of one that is not always with you, but yet you know she is near whether it is with you at the time or in another city. She is just a very special human being.

Sometimes friends come in another way.

Hobbies, work places, and even restaurants can bring you into contact with permanent relationships. In the past, I have found that Mardi Gras krewes provided me with exceptional and beautiful friendships. Danny’s name comes forth immediately. I suppose that is how I got to know him although I believe that I may have first met him at Hibiscus Bookstore. Whichever it was, the friendship has grown, and with that friendship, I can claim a friend with a loving and caring heart. Danny is just a beautiful human being, and I love him dearly.

I think it was also a Mardi Gras connection that caused me to become so close to another wonderful friend. Kenny is just the best out there. I think he is just about the most genuine guy I know when it comes to trust and sincerity.

He is also a fun guy to be around, and you can tell that he is an individual who loves life and likes to share this love with others. He appears to be in charge without taking charge. He is definitely a leader, and he has many followers. Those who try to duplicate him just fall away immediately. In other words, he is a guy who simply stands tall and commands your respect.

Friendships come in many packages, but there are some that stand alone or at least at the top of the heap. You know who these people are. They are what you can feel are forever.

There are times when you might feel betrayed or misled, but there are reasons for these actions. Where the fault lies could be with either party, but to nurture a friendship, you have to be able to give and take, like in a marriage or a great relationship. Best friends can be partners or individuals who just simply crave each other’s company, whether sexual or just platonic. It is a matter of being together and enjoying the moment.

In thinking back, one can always recall moments in time where a loss is more than one can bear. The end of the friendship could have been sudden or it could have ended slowly over a period of time. I can only speak for myself here because this is an individual reaction. All I can tell you is that I am always thinking of Leonard.

He was my friend - one of a kind, and a loving individual, not only to me but to everyone. Being thoughtful and caring just came naturally for him. One day he was here. Then he was gone.

That’s what memories are for - to allow you to hold onto the beauty of life and all the joys that come along. I hope all the friendships in your life are as wonderful as those in mine. We pass this way only once. Make the most of it. Enjoy your friends.

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ambush

paparazzi

Toby, Lola & Mike celebrate the Saints latest win @ Cutter’s

Winston & Darrin cocktailin’ @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

King Cake Queen XVII-Elect Opal Masters stars monthly in the Golden Age Revue @ JohnPaul’s

Bartender Wende ready to serve you @ Rubyfruit Jungle Lea, Samson & Jimmy celebratin’ @ Cutter’s following the Saints win

Bill, Cutter’s bar baron Mac & JR enjoying the aftermath of the latest Saints win on Franklin Avenue

Travis, Jack & Mike take in the winning Saints game @ 700 Club

David Boyd retired from his day job, not as Captain of the Lords of Leather having a drink @ Lafitte’s

Dancer Mikey preparing to strip in Barry’s Bareass Striptease Show @ The Corner Pocket Josie Mae Cotton joins the Golden Age Revue @ JohnPauls

Carlos preparing to lose his pants in Barry’s all new Bareass Striptease Show @ The Corner Pocket

Marcy Marcell headlines the Golden Age Revue @ JohnPaul’s

Barry Bareass & Baby Bareass hosting Barry’s Bareass Striptease Show @ The Corner Pocket

Bartender Jimmy serving cocktails @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Reigning King Cake Queen XVI Tami Tarmac headlines in FourPlay @ JohnPaul’s

ZsaZsa D’LaHor stars in the Golden Age Revue @ JohnPaul’s

Contestant #8 Joey stripping on the bar in Barry’s Bareass Striptease Show @ The Corner Pocket

Gizelle Bouvier guest stars in the Golden Age Revue @ JohnPaul’s

Former King Cake Queen XIII Raven Kennedy ready for her big b-day show @ Oz

40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Saints-sational ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

Corner Pocket’s Troy & dancer Travis @ The Corner Pocket

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ambush

paparazzi

Until It Is Over’s Don hosts the 1st Saints Red Bean Cookoff @ 700 Club

John prepares a drink @ Double Play

Maurice & Gregory welcome Bayou Classic revelers to Society Page

You can catch Brandon @ Rawhide Catch DJ Bull @ Dance Club of the Year Oz

Fresh oysters on the half shell served by bartender Henry & bar baron Javier @ Starlight

David & Curtis having cocktails @ Society Page 700 Club’s Mike is grand champion of the 1st Saints Red Bean Cookoff benefiting Until It Is Over

Rawhide bartenders Eric & Jason welcome you

Bartender Derek smiles big @ Oz

Jam smiling for Ambush @ Society Page Matthew, Jonathan, Ginger & bartender Richie @ Good Friends Bar

John & Paul enjoying cocktails @ their club, JohnPaul’s

Bartender Brad is ready for Thanksgiving @ 4 Seasons in Metairie

David, Mr. Louisiana Leather Toby, Red & Chris enjoying an afternoon @ 4 Seasons in Metairie

Blake & Allen behind the bar @ Oz

Mr. LSGRA Denny @ Rawhide

Brett & Becky having cocktails @ The Friendly Bar

42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM

Catchin’ The Nightlife ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Ambush

Buzzy’s Boys & Girls board member Don Dubay celebrates his birthday @ JohnPaul’s

Matt, Persana, Jerry, Derrick & Ross @ Oz for Drag Dingo guest hosted by Persana

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44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • November 24-December 7, 2009 • Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide • GayMardiGras.COM