Issuu

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 25-J une 7, 2010 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

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

Julien Artressia & Toby Lefort to Lead 39th Southern Decadence as 36th Southern Decadence Grand Marshals

he countdown to the 39th annual Southern Decadence celebration of gay life, music and culture has already begun. Outgoing Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma made it official on May 19 when they announced their successors, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVI Julien Artressia and Toby Lefort. The Oz stage was the setting for the evening beginning with a show, then the announcement, followed by a reception upstairs. The new grand marshals announced the "official" theme: Leather & Feathers as well as the "official" colors: powder blue, black and purple. Tittie and Paloma's selection leads Southern Decadence in a new and exciting direction. Julien hails from the Bourbon Pub/Parade right here on Bourbon Street, while Toby hails from 4 Seasons in Metairie, believed to be the first time a grand marshal has come from the Burbs. The enthusiastic crowd listened intently as first Toby and then Julien addressed those in attendance. Toby said it was a dream of his since he first moved to New Orleans many years ago to become Southern Decadence Grand Marshal, and that everyone in this club and everyone in New Orleans was Southern Decadence, all belonging to this unique holiday. Julien was also elated to become grand marshal and said it was his goal to bring the entire community including all the bars and businesses together as one, working to create the largest Southern Decadence in the history of the celebration. The grand marshals also asked everyone to keep up with their activities and events leading up to and including Southern Decadence by reading the latest issue of Ambush (AmbushMag.COM) and visiting SouthernDecadence.COM which will make concerted efforts to host the latest updates at the direction of Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVI Julien Artressia and Toby Lefort.

Memorial Day Weekend Chockful of Events in the Gulf South

his 56 page edition of Ambush Mag is chockful of events scheduled by circuit party promoters, club, bars and businesses. This is one of the largest editions published since Katrina for the oldest and only regional GLBT publication in the Gulf South. We'd like to extend our thanks and appreciation to all of our advertisers and readers for their support over the past 28 years. The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is not threatening New Orleans which is far inland from the mouth of the Mississippi River, nor it's supply of fresh seafood coming from those areas not affected by the spill. Many do not realize that the City of New Orleans is not on the Gulf of Mexico actually, but far enough inland as not to be affected by the spill. As of press time, the beaches in Pensacola are not affected by the spill either, and everything there is still on schedule to proceed. So please do not change your plans for your traditional Memorial Day Weekend. It will be big in New Orleans and in Pensacola as it always is.

11th MASCARa Race Weekend set in New Orleans May 28-31

he 11th MASCARa Race Weekend kicks off on Friday, May 28 with the 11th Hamster Derby, 6pm, at Good Friends Bar, 740 Dauphine. One can bet on the races using Hamster Bucks which can be purchased at the betting booth. These Hamster Bucks can be used later at the charity auction with prizes that have been donated by local retailers. Following the Derby enjoy the tailgate party prepared by the bar manager Neel. On Saturday, May 29 the Balcony Bar, above Cafe Lafitte in Exile, 901 Bourbon, will host the 2nd annual Ravioli Wrestling Contest. Watch as the contestants go at it in a big tub of Chef Boy-R-Dee’s favorite meal. Then on Sunday, May 30 it's off to Rawhide, 740 Burgundy, which will host the annual Crawfish Boil at 5pm. They brag that they make the best crawfish in the South. On Memorial Day, Monday, May 31 Wood Enterprises holds the most unique and fun drag race on or off the circuit, MASCARa beginning at Clover Grill, 900

inside

Father's Day/GAA Ballot Issue out June 8 DEADLINE: Tuesday, June 1

sdgm coronation paparazzi/nola the pink pastor/new orleans sappho psalm/new orleans under the gaydar/new orleans obituaries chop chop/nola restaurant guide acadiana paparazzi/lafayette alexandria paparazzi acadiana happens/lafayette trodding the boards/new orleans classifieds

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celebrazzi 39th southern decadence miss, mr. nola pride paparazzi nola pride fest ambush paparazzi/new orleans out & about in mobile hot tails of red stick/baton rouge red stick paparazzi/baton rouge ambush paparazzi/new orleans halloween/new orleans snap paparazzi/new orleans

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

Bourbon, promptly at 2pm. Brave men (the contestants) and their pit crews gather at the Clover Grill for the start of the race. The gun sounds and the race begins with the contestants gobbling down an order of chili cheese fries. When they finish this leg of the race they run across the street to Café Lafitte In Exile where they put on panty hose and high heeled shoes, which have to be at least three inches (yes, there is someone there with a ruler), with the help of their pit crew. Once they complete this task they revve their engines with a shot of peppermint schnapps and head for the third lap. It is down Dumaine Street to Burgundy and on to Rawhide. Here the pit crews helps the contestants put on jewelry consisting of earrings, a bracelet, and two rings. After this they cool their fueling system with a seven ounce Bud Light before heading to Good Friends, and lap four. At Good Friends make-up is applied, which consisting of foundation, lips, eyes (including eye lashes) and painted fingernails. They then shift gears with a six ounce Separator, then retouch their make-up and proceeded to lap five. Once they make their way up St. Ann Street to the Bourbon Pub, the pit crews fit them with breasts and a bra. They then grab a hat and purse from the crew, and respark their plugs with a two ounce Mind Eraser. At lap six, in Oz, they are placed into a floor length evening gown and get their final refueling with a six ounce Daiquiri. They were now ready for the home stretch. They run down Bourbon Street to the finish line back at the Clover Grill. Here they enter through the Dumaine Street door donning their wig and hat and exit through the Bourbon Street door. Here they are inspected to ensure that they have met all the requirements of each lap. Each year the event draws more participants and more people crowding the streets to watch the “show.” [continued on 10]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide 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, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg Texas - Austin

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 Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Jeff Palmquist-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, DJ Chromatic, Craig Powell, Leon Weekley-Mobile, AL Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media~212.242.6863 AMBUSH Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2010, 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 This year’s event promises to be even bigger and better with events surrounding the race all weekend long. In 2002 Wood Enterprises decided to turn the Mascara Race into a fund raising event so that not only could people have fun, but the proceeds would help a worthy cause. All contestants are asked to get sponsors to donate money. The NOCCA Institute was chosen as the recipient of the moneys. In the past seven years more that $65,000 has been raised for this very worthy charity. The NOCCA Institute is the non-profit organization that supports NOCCA Riverfront. The award ceremony will be held later that day, at 5pm at Rawhide, 740 Burgundy Street. There are three categories of competition: Fastest Time, Best Drag and Most Money Raised. Contestants will be awarded points in each category with a trophy being awarded in each category. The person who receives the most points will be declared Ms. MASCARa 2010.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

here are loads of places to stay when visiting The Big Easy, but why not support our local gay owned hotels and guest houses. The countdown to Southern Decadence on Labor Day Weekend, September 1-6, has already begun so

make those reservations now! The largest gay owned and operated hotel is BPM Hotels, 1119 N. Rampart St., which includes French Quarter Suites and New Orleans Courtyard. The complex of multi-bedroom suites, luxury townhouses and cottages, are all on the N. Rampart Street corridor adjacent to the French Quarter. It is just steps away from Armstrong Park, Bourbon Street and most of the popular clubs, bars, restaurants and delis in this historic neighborhood. Even though the two hotels maintain separate names, guests have greater access to move freely between their courtyards, pools and common areas. Call 800.457.2253 for reservations or visit FrenchQuarterSuites.COM and NOCourtyard.COM, or email reservations@bpmhotels.com. Another great selection is Burgundy Bed and Breakfast at 2513 Burgundy. It has four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "halfkitchen", courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). It is clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area, is walking distance to the French Quarter, and is in the immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/ venues. For reservations call 800.970.2153, or visit theburgundy.com, or email theburgundy@cox.net. Marigny Manor House, 2125 N. Rampart St. is another gem for travelers. It's an 1840's grand Greek Revival guest house with 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. For reservations call 877.247.7599, or visit marignymanorhouse.com, or email info@MarignyManorHouse.COM.

Around New Orleans Memorial Day Weekend

ake sure and check out all of the ads in this edition showcasing everything available for Memorial Day Weekend May 27-31 in New Orleans including shopping, services, dining and

entertainment. Here's some of the club action: 700 Club brings you Jeremiah Weed Tea on special all weekend plus Sloppy Joes and corn chips on Monday. Bywater Patio Bar & Secret Garden is hosting its Memorial Day Luau on Monday with three big contests including Miss Pulled Pork, Mr. Corn on the Cob and Limbo. Enjoy holiday drink specials, roast suckling pig and roast corn on the cob. Corner Pocket hosts its famous Wet Jockey Shorts Contest on Thursday with $150 in cash and prizes, New Meat Amateur Dance Contest on Friday with $100 cash prize, and All Boy Revue on Saturday, all hosted by Lisa Beaumann. Sunday brings Barry's Bareass Boys Striptease Extravaganza hosted by Barry Bareass with $100 in cash and prizes. Monday closes out the weekend with a Memorial Day Cookout. Cool down with hot men all weekend at The Country Club. Come swim, drink, hot tub, sauna, eat, tan and repeat. On Sunday, you can catch Treme, the series, on the big screen at Cutter's. And over at The Double Play see why it's the happiest bar in the French Quarter. At JohnPaul's catch the CD Release Party for Laurence LeSage's new album "Live This Life" followed by Marcy Marcell's Golden Age Revue on Saturday, Craftin’ & Cocktails with Countess (Queen Amon-Ra XLV) benefiting Odyssey House Louisiana Women with Children Program on Sunday, and Calling All Geminis Impromptu Pub Crawl on Monday. Oz host Drag Dingo Friday with Princesse Stephaney and Persana Shoulders plus DJ Tim Pflueger; Beach Maneuvers Saturday with DJs Tim Pflueger, Jason Lanoux and Bull; and Dingo Sunday with Blanche Debris and Little Ricky followed by The Boy Next Door then the Drag Show. Make the Society Page your N. Rampart Street Memorial Day Weekend headquarters.

Pensacola Gears Up for Giant Memorial Day Weekend May 27-31

he annual trek to Pensacola for Memorial Day Weekend is the kickoff of Summer for many who travel there year after year. Both men and women make the annual pilgrimage to the beautiful white sandy beaches. The circuit parties here are legendary featuring some of the best DJs and entertainers on the circuit and that's why all the beautiful men and women come to Pensacola. Over at Emerald City in downtown Pensacola, there's Fore Play on Thursday with DJ Jay-R, Bitch Bingo on Friday with Bianca Del Rio and Lauren Mitchell followed by Strip Down with DJ Jay-R, Sweat on Saturday with circuit great Joe Gauthreaux, Friction on Sunday with Dewight Barkley, and Climax on Monday with DJ Dewight Barkley. There's also Bounce on Saturday at Portofino with Bianca Del Rio, and the late night party Spellbound on both Saturday and Sunday. Info: MemorialWeekendPensacola.COM. And don't forget Kristi Lee presents Unleashed hosted at both Crabs and Flounder's on Pensacola Beach May 27-30. The dance parties features the talents of Derrick Barry, Bitch, Goddes & She, Michelle Malone, Lisa Mills, Greg Fells, Hussy Hicks, Spikey + The Aftermidnites, and DJ Beverly Skillz. Info: PensacolaUnleashed.COM.

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Tiffany, Julien, Electra, Toby & Tittie SDGM XXXIV Electra City

SDGMs XXXVI Toby Lefort & Julien Artressia flank Oz GM Tommy Elias

Easter Grand Marshal IX Safonda Peters kicks off the show

Bourbon Pub GM Louis & Oz GM Tommy

Hope SDGMs XXXVI Julien & Toby flank Bourbon Pub GM Louis Sachs

Zsa Zsa D’laHor

Headset Salon’s Shannon Watters, SDGM XXXVI Julien & Brad Robbert

SDGM XXXIII Lisa Beaumann

SDGM XXXV Tittie Toulouse does her final performance as reigning grand marshal

SDGM XXXVI Julien & Toby

Oz GM Tommy (center) with friends in from Austin, Texas

Queen Amon-Ra XLV Countess C. Alice Paloma & Tittie announce their successors

snap paparazzi

Gia

SDGM XXXV Paloma does her final performance as reigning grand marshal

Bartender Trey served up cocktails

Charles, Toby, Dominic & Quartermaster's Miseal

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SD Coronation 2010 introducing Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVI Julien Artressia & Toby Lefort @ Oz leading the 39th Southern Decadence ~ New Orleans

36th Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Toby Lefort & Julien Artressia

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

ela is a Trans woman who is brave enough to use her own testimony to fight the terrible iniquities in the Louisiana justice system, and especially the treatment of trans women and gay men who find themselves victims of the State’s medieval ‘Crimes against nature’ statutes. These date from 1805, and are used to brand prostitutes and sex workers as ’sex offenders’ – it is a felony charge that can carry 5 years imprisonment, and leads to a lifetime on the sex offenders register, all for consensual acts that if they involved a birth woman and vaginal intercourse, would be charged as a misdemeanor. Here is Tela’s brave account of her recent incarceration in the Orleans Parish Prison, after being arrested on a night out in the French Quarter. --Rev Clinton Crawshaw I was arrested on November 19, 2009. I find myself, along with other transgender women, often profiled and arrested simply for being in the wrong place at the wrong time by officers of the New Orleans Police Department. This frequently happens to girls who were born male, but who have began their transition into womanhood. It happens even more so to African American transgender women in my considerable experience. I have filed complaints with P.I.B., on at least two occasions in an effort to make a stand against this injustice. My name it Tela La’Raine Victor, at birth I was Antwonye La’Ray Jackson, but after embracing the women who has always lived inside me, I decided to make a few changes – so that my outside could match what was going on inside. That was the beginning of a long and very challenging road, but that is a story for another day. I was not raised in New Orleans but I was born there, so it’s always felt like my home. I fell in love with the French Quarter when I was about 13 years old. I’ll never forget, I’d come down to visit my mother for the summer and we were walking down Bourbon Street. I saw transgender women for the first time in pictures hanging in the window outside of a Club called, ‘Pappa Joe’s World Famous Female Impersonators’. I saw me, as I really was for the first time that day. I saw what I could be as I straggled behind my mother and sibling. It was that day I saw a vision of what my future held. Not long after, I began my transition to become a transgender woman. This put a damper on family and I was cast into the streets by age 16. I ended up at the Covenant House in

New Orleans, only moments away from the French Quarter which seem to be a place of acceptance for me. I learned a lot about life in a short time. I learned some things I’m not proud of. Such is life, the sun does not shine all the time. By 21, I had my first experience with the cops, some of which will pick you up and threaten to take you to jail if you don’t perform oral sex on them; some are willing to pay you, but very little, and others just trick or deceive, and then take you to jail just because you are walking in the Quarter – especially if it’s bonus time. Transgender women make easy marks for cops trying to get that Christmas bonus “to heck with the murderers and other violent criminals”. As a result a lot of girls like myself don’t even like to stand out any more because of the constant profiling. They seek desperately to blend in. It used to be such a glamorous, extravagant art but society has found away to force us to blend in. As the saying goes “if they can tell, you’re going to jail”! The charge “Crimes against Nature” is especially cruel. This is humiliating, unfair and the shame worn by many transgender women, forcing them to register as sex offenders, placing them in the same boat as pedophiles and rapists when in all reality the crime is no worse than prostitution – a misdemeanor. The fact that transgender women are still being arrested, prosecuted, convicted, and forced to register as sex offenders because of this ancient law should be an insult to the entire GLBGTQ Community, and the entire State of Louisiana. It in fact is a direct insult to homosexual men and preoperative transgender women, who are also tax payers and law abiding citizens. What’s even worse is how we are treated once we become inmates of the prison; we become not only property of the state and of the city but property of the men. We are spoken down to, sexually abused and put in very compromising situations and then punished for doing what is natural to trans-women. How could any one place someone who has been officially, medically diagnosed as a female around men for long periods of time and not expect an intimate relationship to develop is ludicrous. Homosexuality and transgenderism date to a time before the great empires of Rome and Greece, it is neither new nor unnatural, and cannot be explained away as ‘choice’

or ‘mental illness’. We can’t pretend it’s not there and hope it will go away – these are the action of children. I pray our government is not run by children. While being imprisoned, most trans-women would agree the environment is almost like a stage set for depression and suicide. You are constantly being harassed by men who see you as only sex objects, and a weak vessel. They become aggressive and threaten your safety if you turn down their advances. To top it off you have preacher’s coming weekly teaching hate and ignorance to these inmates perpetuating the image and stigma that has followed us our whole lives “that if we don’t repent, were going to hell”! Now I ask you, does this sound like justice? In an effort to combat these beliefs I successfully organized and initiated a support group and Bible study for an entire month while I was in jail. In order to counter act the negative environ-

ment with a hope to build self esteem in those like me. It was successful but it was only in one dorm – unfortunately I couldn’t be everywhere and everyone doesn’t want to be helped. Some of us have been too badly damaged by society’s view of us and have begun to feed into the stereotypes. We not only have to conform as inmates but to their opinion of us as men. Which has to be an infringement on our right as human beings. We are punished for being different as I was placed in isolation for 11 days as a punishment for not being able to defend myself against the constant threats and the sexual advances of men. One of the staff told me “you’re a man” fight them if they’re bothering you. They had grown tired of me and the problems that go along with placing a transgender women in the mist of 88 grown men with little or no supervision. So I was placed alone in a cell in the dead of winter – for a few days without even running water, having objects thrown in at me being harassed for sexual favors and also strip searched by staff to look at my body. I was around men who were looking at twenty years to life, in maximum security, but believe me if they are friends with staff “they can get to you”. That was a threat often made to me by fellow inmates, and I knew it was true. Certain inmates knew how to open their cells. It amazed me that

when I took that long walk from the end of the hall to the shower each morning how in the ‘hole’, supposedly the most secure part of the jail, I could smell weed, and cigarettes and see men sharpening knifes in there cells. Yet I was the only one strip searched. Now you tell me, where is the equality and the justice in that? While I was in the “hole” (which is a prison term for isolation or maximum security) I filed several complaints on paper, and after being in the hole over 200 hours, I finally got a response. It seems I got the ‘run around’ because when you are in the hole, unless you act like an animal and behave completely insane the guards won’t pay you any attention; you practically have to be bleeding to get one to come down the hall and then when they do finally come the trans-woman is always the last to be heard if they are heard at all. Even the ranking officers – who are in high positions, have no tact in dealing with transgender people; they are equally rude, treating us like second class citizens. They give the men all the excess food and hygiene supplies on the bases of a shared gender identity, and forcing trans-women to degrade themselves, just to have the bare necessities like a blanket to keep warm. This sexual exploitation is very common. I was told to “pop it off” when I asked for a blanket, on the night of a hard freeze. Well, what are you going to do? Allow yourself to freeze? After I had waited several hours for the staff to bring back a blanket I had to flash private parts of my body in order to obtain basic necessities while the “men” have what they need and more. Some of the others inmates had 3 or 4 blanket on their beds. Yet I had to degrade myself to get one just one. In closing, I would like to believe that one day we could have a world where you could take a male that is transitioning from male to female and place her around men and there would be no, or at the very least could respect each others rights to be different as an individual. After all, if everyone thought the same on this issue, and so easily came to agreement, what need would there be for a police or prisons anyway? True justice in this matter is actually an open and shut case. The police departments and prison systems have been set in place out of the necessity to protect and ensure justice for all the American people. I’m sure many would agree anything less is not doing the very thing they were designed to do. As officers of the law they take an oath to protect and serve. When you decide to throw a population to the wolves because of your own personal beliefs you forsake that oath and damage the integrity of your entire organization, and those truths you have sworn to uphold and there is absolutely no justice in that.

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

Film – Just Wright

ou are not indispensable. When you walk away from a job, relationship, whatever, there is always someone who can take your place. So a few weeks ago I lost my driver, and when it came time to review a movie, I was moaning to myself about going alone. I’ve been spoiled over the past 16 months. I found myself in a conversation with Arthur Alarcon. Arthur is a former Petronius King. He was telling me how much he loves movies. I don’t go often because I don’t enjoy going alone, he

said. I could feel those angels my mom left me, giggling and dancing on my shoulder when I told Arthur that I was looking for someone to drive me to previews. We were both delighted with the arrangement. So on a recent Monday with deadline due, we took off to see Queen Latifah and Common in the movie, Just Wright. There are a number of conflicting reviews but for my time, it was well spent. Yes, this is another formula story that cries for more witty dialogue. Let’s face it, Latifah is firmly

in control when she takes the stage and Common just does not have her talent. The writing and directing could have been tighter/better but it could have been much worse. Samaa Hamni directed this film, and also directed The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2. It is a romantic, sports comedy. Common is the NBA All-star from the Nets who loves jazz. Latifah is a physical sports therapist who loves the Nets and jazz. She pushes him to save his career, and with fierce competition to separate them, they still fall in love seemingly forever after. The story is predictable but the interaction between Latifah and her mother’s character and Common’s mother’s character is excellent. And who are the Moms? Pam Grier and Phylicia Rashad are the mothers. Yes, Pam Grier is a mom and she is great. I almost didn’t realize who it was up there on screen. She is still beautiful and still a force. Michael Rechtshaffen from the Hollywood Reporter calls it Just Trite. I disagree. Even Arthur, who said he was prepared to dislike it, liked it. Outside the theatre, I met one of Freddie’s groomers who is looking for another dog for me. I was surprised to hear myself say if you like Queen Latifah, basketball, jazz, and love fantasy, this is a must see film. It is good even with its few faults.

PFLAG Supports NOLA Pride

t the latest PFLAG Board Meeting, it was moved and approved to give NOLA Pride a donation of $1,000. In an effort to support community events, PFLAG is taking an active part in the Saturday, June 26th Family Picnic at City Park. All organizations are invited to the picnic and encouraged to bring information about their groups. Also bring a table to put your printed materials on. The city has still not approved vendors’ tables so anyone who wishes to set up a table at the picnic must bring their own. NOLA Pride will sell tickets which can be used to redeem soft drinks and food or vendor materials. No cash can be passed between picnic attendees and vendors. This is to protect organizations and NOLA Pride from being taxed inappropriately by the city or state. Another co-sponsor is the newly formed Gay Softball League – Kings vs. Queens will be playing during the picnic. This is shaping up to be a true old fashion family gathering. Bring your musical instruments (banjos, guitars, etc.) and be a part of the impromptu song fest or jazz jam fest. It is time to party Gay New Orleans style with Pride so invite your family and friends to join us. Some of the fundraisers for Pride are as follows: Thursday, June 3rd at JohnPaul’s is Karaoke night. This starts at 8pm. The overall winner of the two month long Karaoke contest will allow the winner to sing on Sunday, June 27th at NOLA Pride on stage. Saturday, May 29th on the Phoenix Patio is the $5 Beer Bust Social. Come support Pride and meet the committee members and other supporters. Also during June will be additional Karaoke contests, dates to be posted at a later time. Thursday, June 10th at Rock-N-Bowl come meet and greet over good drinks and food while bowling. The cost is $30 and includes two and a half hours of bowling, shoe rental, music, dancing and all that good food and drink. Parking is free in the Ye Ole College Inn parking lots next door. For more information and advance tickets, call 861.1700.

Cocktails & Crowns

he Krewe of Petronius is inviting all Kings and Queens, present, past & future to attend the Saturday, June 12th party celebrating the wearing of our crowns while sipping cocktails at Fredrick Guess Studio. Party starts at 7pm and will continue until 10pm. Cocktail attire and crowns are expected. No matter how large or small, all crowns are welcome. I guess we all know the Queenateenas will have the highest crowns. Mine is rather unimpressive but I love having the opportunity to wear it again as the 42nd Queen of Petronius. July 7th and 8th is the Wedding Singer at Le Petit Theatre. The Golden Jubilee of Gay Mardi Gras Show will be held on July 31st at Le Petite Theatre for 7pm. Tickets are on sale now and I’ll be most happy to supply you with a ticket. Just call or email me for more information. [continued on 22]

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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

Watching the Masters

pal Masters, one of the premier drag entertainers in the city, now gives us a great reason to go out on Sunday afternoons. The first Sunday of each month, Opal presents Opal’s Follies at JohnPaul’s at 5. If you have never seen Ms. Masters perform, then you are missing out on the first lady of drag elegance. Take Audrey Hepburn’s fashion sense, Grace Kelly’s style and Elizabeth Taylor’s jewels, mix them all together, add Liberace’s flamboyance and you have Opal Masters. Joining Opal is Rhonda Roget, Gizelle Bouvier and many other special guests. Each of these wonderful ladies brings their own flair to Opal’s Follies making it one of the top drag shows in the city. Another reason I enjoy this show is the audience. The crowd is a mixture of fun locals and being a spectator at one of Opal's shows is like being part of her extended family. She and all the other girls make you feel welcome and part of the fun. Her next show will be Sunday, June 6 at 5pm at JohnPaul’s. So definitely stop by and check out Opal’s Follies.

present Craftin’ and Cocktails with the Countess. Queen Amon Ra XLV Countess C. Alice is hosting a benefit for Odyssey House Louisiana Women and Children’s Program. This unique fundraiser is only $10 and starts at 3pm. This is how it works, the first C is the Countess and a host of other entertainers will dazzle you with their wit and charm. The second C is you will craft your own one of a kind baby birdhouse while enjoying the third C, wonderful cocktails from our happy bartenders at JohnPaul's. For your admission fee of $10, each guest will receive their own small birdhouse to craft their masterpiece. All the craft supplies will be provided. A judging of the best birdhouse will take place at 5:30pm with the show following afterwards at 6pm. Special guests joining the Countess will be Princesse Stephaney, Safonda Peters, Lauren Brown and many others. They will also be having a raffle and a live auction for several large birdhouses decorated by the various gay carnival krewes, For more information on this fundraiser, call 504.701.0631.

NOLA Pride 2010 The Three C’s of Sunday Takes Flight

n May 30 at JohnPaul’s, you will learn the three C’s of Sunday when they

he second gay pride fundraiser was held on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May

9 at JohnPaul’s and I was honored to be asked to emcee the show with the fabulous Opal Masters. The fundraiser was to crown Mr. and Miss NOLA Pride 2010, and the competition was fierce. It was a fun afternoon of hot men, powerful drag queen performances and camaraderie in the gay community. There were six contestants, two men and four “ladies” vying for the titles. Shay and Travis were the two male candidates and the judges had a difficult time choosing between the two of them. Both men are not just physically pleasing but they are talented and articulate. Shay has one of the nicest signing voices and Travis definitely has a flair for comedy. But in the end, there could only be one and Travis Bergeron from the Pub was named Mr. NOLA Pride 2010. He was crowned by Grand Marshal Steven Forster. We then moved on to Miss NOLA Pride. Contestants included Miss D, Barbara Ella, Bubbles Champagne and Tami Tarmac. All the entertainers gave knock out performances for their talent, but again there can only be one Miss NOLA Pride 2010 and it was Tami Tarmac, who hit the ball out of the park with her rendition of Lady Gaga’s Bad Romance. She was crowned by none other than Cathy Fox who is co-Grand Marshal for NOLA Pride 2010. But the rivalry for this crown was close. From Miss D’s elegant number to Barbara Ella’s quick change routine to My Strongest Suit from Aida, the judges had a tough time making their decision. Bubbles who was the first runner up came out in one of the most distinctive outfits of the evening which made her look like the love child of Moss Man and Grace Jones, but it was visually stunning. But the pageant was not the only highlight of the afternoon. Special performances were given by Regina Adams, Zsa Zsa D'laHor and Deja Déjà Vu. Opal Masters also brought the house down with the moving final number of the evening. There was a 50/50 raffle won by Bill McCarthy who re-donated it back to NOLA Pride from the Krewe of Petronius and the specialty gift basket went for $250. The following day I went to Bywater Patio Bar & Secret Garden for the kickoff to the Voice of Pride Contest. This karaoke contest was hosted by DJ P and Rikki Gee. There will be several karaoke contests at different bars leading up to the finale at Oz where the winners of all the previous contests will have a showdown to be the “Voice of Pride.” The winner of that night will sing at the Pride Festival in June. Now, I am not a big karaoke person but this one was fun and the participants gave it their all. The winner for that night’s competition was Matt Hunter who will be a tough contestant to beat in the finals. For more information on where the contests will be next, go to www.nolapride.org.

Book of the Month

he book for May that I recommend is another Ellen Hart mystery novel entitled Sweet Poison. This is the 16th book in the Jane Lawless series and it is an incredible entry. This book finds our gay heroine, Jane Lawless, balancing her two restaurants, while working on her father’s campaign for governor. When one of the volunteers on her father’s campaign is murdered, Jane naturally steps to the plate. There are many twists and red herrings in this book to keep readers guessing until the end. And the introduction of Jane’s current and former flames is a wonderful subplot. As with all Hart’s novels, her characters are very dimensional so much so that you start actually feeling their emotions. And since the novel takes place over Halloween, it makes the atmosphere even more interesting. With Sweet Poison, Hart delivers a powerful mystery along with delving deeper into the psychological complexities of all her main and minor characters. For more information on Ellen Hart, go to www.ellenhart.com. For this novel and many other gay and lesbian titles, go to our local LGBT bookstore FAB located at 600 Frenchman Street.

Interview with Ellen Hart

s you can see through my columns, I am a huge fan of mysteries and thrillers, so when I was given the opportunity to interview Ellen Hart, I sprang at the chance. Hart has won the Lambda Literary Award and the Minnesota Book Award and has published 17 novels in her Jane Lawless mystery series with the newest one entitled The Cruel Ever After coming out in December. She is also the author of seven books in the Sophie Greenway mystery series [continued on 19]

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under the gaydar ...from 18 TL: How did you get into writing, especially mysteries? EH: I have always loved mysteries even as a child. I read Sherlock Holmes and Nancy Drew, then as I got older my reading tastes grew. In 1987, a number of things happened to make me begin my first novel, my professor had written a mystery and then Barbara Wilson had written Murder in the Collective, which had a lesbian heroine, so it opened the door for me. I wanted to give it a shot because it would have been one of the greatest regrets of my life if I never tried. TL: Did you have any other influences in your writing? EH: I had many, but when I started writing, I would read a lot of PD. James and even though my books are nothing

Ellen Hart like hers, I would take her books apart so to speak. I used her books as a guideline, her plots and characters. TL: How did you choose Jane Lawless? EH: I know some people may think I am crazy, but I needed a character to place into my first book and Jane seemed like a good one to drop in. You write about what you know and at the time I was working in a sorority house

so my first novel Hallowed Ground takes place in one. So Jane Lawless was the perfect candidate to be an alumnus of the sorority. TL: Did you think you were writing a series with your first novel? EH: I actually did not think I was going to be published when I was writing my first novel. But after it became published, I started to look at my characters more. When you write a first novel you definitely need to be careful of the characters, especially if you are thinking of doing a series. TL: I just read Sweet Poison, what was the catalyst behind that story? EH: I wanted a story where both of Jane’s loves meet and fight it out and hence the story came into being. TL: Your character of Julia is really bad, how was it creating her? EH: Julia was so much fun to write, she is a delicious character.

TL: You have been to New Orleans many times at Saints and Sinners, what do you like about the city? EH: First I think that Saints and Sinners is one of the best LGBT writing festivals ever. But there is nowhere else in the world quite like the French Quarter. I love the city’s nightlife and have many friends there like JM Redman, another wonderful author who is a great cook and whose house I have dined at often. I love the restaurants, the seafood and your fabulous drive through bars. I also like that New Orleans is a city that keeps getting kicked in the ****, picks itself up, brushes itself off then keeps ongoing. TL: Do you ever think Jane Lawless may visit the Crescent city soon? [continued on 20]

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under the gaydar ...from 19 EH: Well, I do not think I would be able to do the city justice and I have too many friends in New Orleans who would correct me. But some of my New Orleans friends have made it into some of my novels. TL: Well, that just means you would have to stay in the city more and do some research. And I would be more than happy to be her guide in the Crescent City and if I happen to make it as one of the new characters in her book, so much the better. Hopefully I won’t be a victim on the receiving end of a knife, but I do think I would make a great suspect.

Speaking of Characters

he Windsor Court has just released its list of their 140 characters of New Orleans and I made the cut. Over 400 people were nominated for this fun honor and on May 18, the Windsor Court, a New Orleans character in and of itself, hosted a reception to honor all us characters. It was a veritable who’s who of eccentric locals, entrepreneurs, famous transplants, sports figures, musicians, actors, authors, chefs and street performers. You have to love this city where the elite can mingle with no problems with the guy who stands on a bucket in the Quarter painted silver. Other nominees included my fellow Satyricon member and actress Becky Allen, actor Ricky Graham, author and Mad Men star Bryan Batt, John Besh, Paul Prudhomme, Sidney Torres, Drew Brees, just to name a few. So next time you see me doing something unusual in public, it is just because I have to keep my status up as a New Orleans character. For a complete list of the top 140 Characters of New Orleans, or just to find out more about the Windsor Court, go to www.windsorcourthotel.com.

Zoo To Do 2010

he Zoo made a splash in the Crescent City. The Audubon Institute held its largest fundraiser, the Whitney Zoo To Do 2010, on Friday, May 7 and it was a huge success. There were lots of restaurants and great specialty bars for guests as they mingled and danced under the stars. The Zoo unveiled the plans for its new splash park coming next year. The park will be a very refreshing way for the young and young at heart to stay cool next summer. There are lots of great things on the horizon for one of the best zoos in the country. The featured performer that evening was Sister Sledge and they were fantastic. These ladies still got it. They are great entertainers and their

stage show was electric. The audience danced the night away. After all in the Crescent City, “We are family!” For more information on the new exciting things at the zoo, go to www.auduboninstitute.org.

Dinner with Friends

ike most people, I live a very hectic life. So it is nice when I have a night off when I can relax with some great friends and just have a fun and enjoyable meal. A few months back, I talked about a dinner my friends and I threw in which we all had to make a dish and pare it with a drink. Well, we did it again, and I have to say to people who are looking for a break from the bar scene, that again these are some of the most memorable nights I have had. Not to mention some of the best four course meals, I have ever had in many restaurants. This time we did our dinner at my friend Marvin and Robbie’s lovely new house in Mid City. I created the first course which was a seafood cocktail served in a hollowed out bell pepper. Presentation is everything and the pepper spiced up the look of a very simple dish that contained crabmeat, marinated shrimp, guacamole, caviar, and pico de gallo. The drink I pared with it was s feng shui which is vodka (one of my favorite spirits), ice wine and frozen grapes used instead of olives. Very strong but just the right kick we all needed to start the night off. James and Scot created the second course, a crabmeat orzo pasta dish matched with a New Orleans favorite summertime drink the Pimm’s Cup. I now have a new favorite drink for those hot days. Next up was the entrée which was Osso Bucco over stone, garlic grits. Marvin and Robbie outdid themselves on this dish and their drink, the very potent Bourbon Mash, almost did all of us in. But we weren’t finished yet, Tyler and Nick followed up with the perfect ending to the evening was an apple pastry with vanilla bean ice cream and a delicious dessert martini made with muddled anise. To all those friends who are looking for a great way to spend an evening together, this is just the thing. So stay tuned because the next one is a brunch at my house.

The Final Stritch Part 1

fter last week, I needed to see Elaine, (I mean Cathy) and find out if everything I heard about her from Barbara Ella was indeed true. I think she may have over exaggerated a little bit in her tales of Cathy. I mean I knew her arms are somewhat hairy, but I find it hard to believe Cathy was raised by wolves. But then again who can really explain the origins of Amanda Straddle. So I went to JohnPaul’s the follow-

ing Friday night and watched their show. There was electrifying performances by all the girls, afterwards I went to say hello backstage. I found Elizabeth Bouvier seated at the mirror with Barbara Ella hovering around her, Lauren Brown looking disheveled trying to get her outfits back into her very nice Prada suitcase and Cathy Fox sitting quietly off to herself having a martini with three olives. Tami Tarmac was no where to be found. “Oh, would you get away from me and make yourself useful and get me another vodka stinger,“ Elizabeth barked the order at Barbara Ella. She reapplied her make-up like an artist painting a canvas. “Right away Miss Bouvier,“ and she was gone. Elizabeth saw me in the mirror and turned to me upon my entrance into the dressing room. “And who are you?“ She stood up and dabbed her lips with a tissue, carelessly tossing it to the floor. She picked up her drink and strode over to me, her silk dressing gown floated gracefully as she moved. “My name is Tony and I am doing a story on celebrities in the Big Easy.“ “And these are the people you are interviewing?” She raised an eyebrow. “Good luck with that.” Some of her vodka stinger sloshed out of the glass on my shoe. Barbara Ella quickly reappeared with another one, which Elizabeth quickly downed. “Was there vodka in that? Get me another one, pronto.” Then she leaned over to me and whispered. “It's sort of fun for me making that little one jump, she has the cute curls that bounce when she runs. Like if Shirley Temple had a real hard knock life she would be Barbara Ella.“ “Actually I think she did, she wrote a book about it,“ I said. She gave me a dismissive wave of her hand. “Brown, make sure those are your five and dime jewels going into your suitcase, God, you have to watch these bitches every moment. That necklace looks mighty familiar to me.“ She moved toward Lauren who looked like she was just trying to blend into the scenery. At that moment, Barbara appeared with another drink for Elizabeth whose attention quickly shifted away from Lauren and to the incoming libation. She suckled right to it like a nursing baby. I crossed over to Cathy. “Great show,“ I told her. “Why yes, thank you for noticing, my adoring fans make it all worthwhile, I mean everything I do, I do it for you.“ And she clasped my hand. “Jesus H. Christ, Cathy, quoting song titles now, the next thing you will say is that your heart will go on. Can’t you come up with anything original,” Barbara Ella spat the words at her. “You are just jealous of my glamorous world. And I will not have you riding the coat tails of my celebrity anymore. You will see next week, when Miss Bouvier allows me to do the spotlight performance of the night.“

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Lauren Brown duck behind a full clothing rack. That did not bode well. “Oh, didn’t Elizabeth tell you, Tami is doing the spotlight next week, not you,” Barbara told Cathy with a gleam in her eye. “That is preposterous,” she crossed over to Elizabeth who was emptying six nearly empty vodka stingers into one large glass to make a full drink. “Miss Bouvier, I just heard some upsetting news, that Tami is doing the spotlight number next time and not me. I know that must be wrong.” “No, its right,” she said nonchalantly then snapped her fingers at Barbara Ella and pointed to her empty glass who quickly disappeared and popped right back in with another stinger. “That was fast, are they making those things right outside the door,” I said. “Actually on show night, they make a gallon and keep it on tap for Elizabeth.“ “To hell with the stingers, Elizabeth, are you telling me you chose Tami over me to do the spotlight number,” Cathy exclaimed clutching the pearls around her neck. “She said you would not mind, so I told her okay. It is all hers.” I saw Cathy’s eyes glaze over with building fury. “I am going to kill her. This is the last time she has taken from me.“ And with that she stomped off. Elizabeth took a swig of the stinger. “Well there is definitely vodka in this, you should taste this,” she offered me a sip. Suddenly Lauren Brown fell to her knees, “why can’t we have nice things,“ she cried. “Oh put a sock in it Lauren, you are not on stage anymore.” Elizabeth said. “Oh, please don’t stop her, this is the best performance I have seen her give in a long time,” Barbara Ella said and lit a cigarette. Lauren shot Barbara an evil glance and pulled herself off her knees and left the room knocking into me roughly as she departed trailing her suitcase behind her. John, one of the two debonair owners of JohnPaul’s, entered the dressing room. “Great show ladies, the bar is packed. “Have you seen Tami tonight?” I asked a little unnerved by Cathy’s threats. “Sure, she is upstairs standing next to the balcony. See you guys out front.” For a brief moment we all stood silent and looked at each other. “Awww hell!” Elizabeth said in her charming Southern drawl. And with that we all raced to the second floor. We reached the balcony landing and went outside to find Tami poised by the railing with the full moon glowing behind her illuminating her statuesque physique giving the illusion of an illuminated big hair [continued on 22]

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under the gaydar ...from 20 halo behind her. There was a bevy of small little pocket gay boys surrounding her, overly excited to be in her presence. They flitted around her like moths to a flame. But there was no sign of Cathy, so I assumed she went home. Then suddenly the door to the balcony burst open and Cathy stood framed in the doorway. “Tarmac, I want to talk to you!” “Fox, can’t it wait, can’t you see I am busy with my beautiful, adoring fans,” she cupped one of the little gays face in her hand. “You lying, conniving vixen,” she stalked onto the balcony. The little gay boys look frightened. As Cathy crossed the balcony she back armed Barbara Ella out of the way

sending her sprawling to the ground. “I told you she was raised by wolves,“ she said to me and pulled herself back to her feet. I stood motionless and the wee gay boys now absolutely terrified scattered inside like cockroaches. Tami sighed, “what do you want Fox?” “You have taken from me my entire life, and this number is the final straw,” she approached Tami menacingly. “A little overly dramatic even for you,” Tami said and took another sip of her cocktail. “It started with Sven, my fiancé and now this. Sven was the love of my life and you could not stand it so you slept with him.” “Is that what has you all hot and bothered, really Cathy, he wasn’t all that, you should be glad I slept with him, I saved you the heartache because eventually he would have dumped you.” “For a slut like you. Never!” Tami reared her head back and laughed, “Cathy, maybe he wanted to know what it was like to be with a real woman.” The next few minutes happened so quickly it was a blur. I recalled later to the police. I saw Cathy scream like a madwoman and kick her shoes off. “I will show you a real woman,” and with that she launched herself at Tami hitting her square in the midsection. Tami briefly lost her footing then both women teetered backwards to the edge of the balcony. That is when I heard the deafening crack of wood, and then they were gone off the side. Barbara Ella shrieked. Elizabeth took another swig of her drink, “awww hell, I’m not paying for that,” she said. And in the distance, I heard Lauren Brown cry again, “why can’t we have nice things.” To be continued... (Note: this section of the article, is as Hollywood likes to say is based on a true story, which actually means none of it is really true.)

sappho psalm ...from 16 I’ll have more events in my next article. But the one everyone is waiting for is October 16th. The New Orleans School of Cooking will be holding a cooking class that includes a great meal and Petronius members will be there to serve you. I just have to add one more teaser. In August there will be the Slow Burn Burlesque Show. Now that’s something to dream about. I’m told there will also be a Swim Suit Edition along with the Burlesque Show. Hot, Hot, Hot!!! So much for events, this issue is leading up to Memorial Day, and I know many of you will be strutting your stuff on the Florida beaches. Have a great time and be safe.

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obituaries James Wallace “Wally” McLaughlin

ally McLaughlin, age 59 years, died on Monday, May 17, 2010 at West Jefferson Memorial Hospital after his long and courageous battle against a brain tumor. He was the life partner of Romnie A. Leleux. Father of Lacey Leigh Salinas of Folsom, LA and Jason F. McLaughlin of Covington, LA. Son of the late Kitty Bell Foster and James Wallace McLaughlin Sr. Brother of Michael McLaughlin of Hattiesburg, MS and the late Glenda “Tootsie” Bookout. He is also survived by two granddaughters, Katherine and Carolina Salinas and nephews and nieces. Wally was involved in Carnival creating some of the most elaborate costumes in the history of Mardi Gras. He was past captain and royalty of both the Krewe of Armeinius and Krewe of Petronius. Memorial services will be announced at a later date by THARPSONTHEIMER FUNERAL HOME of Metairie. In lieu of the usual remembrances, memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be expressed

online at www.tharpsontheimer.com.

In Loving Memory ...John Trafas (aka- JT to his Michigan friends, John Boy to those who knew him in New Orleans and Johnny Francis Hotdog Head to the kids in Arizona) umor, wit, love, compassion and acceptance are words that could be used to describe John Trafas. Based on his knowledge and understanding of the English language we’re sure he could come up with fifteen different words that mean the same thing and would fit into the confines of the crossword puzzles he loved so much. John came to visit us in July 2009 to watch his buddy Otis while we went on vacation. Unfortunately he was never able to return to New Orleans, his adopted hometown that he loved so much. The culture, food and big city atmosphere were some of things he grew attached to. Life in New Orleans was not always easy for John. He was shot, mugged and stabbed on the streets over the years. When John was first diagnosed with cancer he walked 2 miles each way to his

radiation treatments. Even with the negatives of a big city he loved New Orleans. One thing he did mention was he could do without the humidity that came in the summertime. During our time with John this past year we learned a great deal about him and the way he lived his life. He was thrifty, positive and always talked about going back home. Any item left from a meal, no matter how small became a leftover candidate. Sometimes the leftovers out numbered the uncooked items in the refrigerator. He could make a sauce, usually hot and spicy out of almost anything. MASH reruns late at night were a favorite of his as were cooking shows and Mel Brooks movies. We thoroughly enjoyed watching the Saints win the Super Bowl with him this year. John never had an email address or cable/satellite TV, however he could tell the make and year of a 1960’s era car at a glance. He did however have a cell phone. When hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005 we didn’t hear from John for over 3 weeks. We registered his name with the Red Cross and scanned websites looking for any information on John but found nothing. A good friend of ours that’s in the military was sent to New Orleans to help with the recovery efforts. When she had free time she went to the area where his apartment was located. The buildings were damaged but not flooded. The area was deserted except for two women and a man walking down approached and asked the man if his name was John Trafas. When he answered yes the next thing our friend said was your sister is going to #x*@^&%# kill you”. John didn’t know what all the fuss

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Deadline: Tues., June 1 504.522.8049 was about. He was fine, the apartment was missing part of the roof, didn’t have electricity, water or phones but he was fine. Shortly after that Susan, as he calls his sister when he was upset with her got him a cell phone. John kept his humor, wit and can-do attitude with him as he continued to get weaker and weaker. He kept us laughing and in good spirits whenever we were around him. The nurses and aides that cared for him developed a genuine bond with him. They would say we love John, he makes us laugh. “Hey Darling”, “Rest it Rose”, “Nope”, “Mary Louise Agnes Marie” and of course “Who Dat” are some of the phrases we will never forget. We miss John dearly however we are happy that we were able to help him in his final days and will always have a good laugh when we remember the good times we were able to share with him. We will be traveling to New Orleans and Michigan this year in remembrance of John. Please visit www.obituariesforangles.com or the Flint Journal for John’s obituary.

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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain www.ripandmarsha.com Email: info@ambushmag.com

New Orleans Restaurant Guide

Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional)at Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.

Blackened Ribeye with roasted tomato hollandaise, corn pudding & blackeyed peas at The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.

New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) at Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.

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 til 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 lunch and dinner, and Saturday-Sunday brunch 9am-3pm. Open 9am-10pm Saturday-Sunday 11am-10pm Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday, closed Wednesday MasterCard/Visa accepted. 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 11am-3pm. Visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM or call 945.0742 for more information. 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 6pm 7 days a week, 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. 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. Rooba's Crescent Spoon Cafe, 2307 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 830.1035, Roobas.COM. Home of the Weenie Panini, Rooba's has an extensive menu with starters, garden fresh salads, paninis, specialty sandwiches, pizza, daily hot specials and homemade desserts. Open Mon. Sat. 11am-3pm.

Eggplant Crab Benedict (fried eggplant topped with crabmeat, poached egg & hollandaise) on the weekend brunch menu at Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St. Custon Breakfast with your favorites at Krystal, 116 Bourbon St.

Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings at 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St.

Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) at Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place

Occo Buco, braised veal shank in a garlic, thyme and white wine demi with asparagus and potatoes at Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St.

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28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 25-J une 7, 2010 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec

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acadiana

papar azzi

Robby, Hunter, Tayler, George & Stephen @ Sound Factory

Wendy & her crew @ Jules

Brandon Richard boiling crawfish @ Sound Factory

Joey & Jason hanging out @ Jules Kasi, John & DJ Kyle D cutting up @ an infamous Laffy after party Hunter & his big stick Cutting up @ Sound Factory

Alright for DJ Kyle D!

Joey & Tayler headed downtown Joey, Spence, Kristi & Shirley @ Sound Factory Miss Perkins

Show some love for Valerie Sugarbaker!

Jenn just looking so cute

Lafayette Lesbian Swap

Sam always has a beautiful smile!

Megan & her mother Anita working the table at the Lafayette Lesbian Swap @ Sound Factory

Werk it, girl!

Kim took the girls out for all to see while Jenn seemed excited

The two Joey’s hanging out @ Jules

30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 25-J une 7, 2010 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec

Werk it, girl! ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins

Tayler & the forever-passed-out, Darius @ Sound Factory

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • May 25-J une 7, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31

Ann, Annetta & Jodi

Dee & Michelle

Lucinda Silvers

Renee & Mika

Ladies of Oz: Dominique DeLorean, Entertainer of the Year Coca & Sable Starr

Todd, Brett & Devon

alexandria

papar azzi

Cher!!!!!

Marsheya & Sable

Dominique all tied Up!!!!

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 25-J une 7, 2010 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec

All the Action @ Olympus Bar ~ Alexandria, Louisiana

Eric, Brandon & Austin

acadiana happens by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com

he shorts have become shorter, the tanning booths have been booked, and the diet pills have been flying off the shelves. I guess this means only one thing, summer has begun. The nights will be growing longer and moments with friends are sure to come. This time will be short and sweet. Here’s the dish of what’s happening. You’re listening up with Joey Collins, girl!

Lafayette Lesbians

ery recently the Lafayette Lesbian group hosted a “swap” night at Sound Factory. Many lesbians across Acadiana controlled the bar for a night of music and entertainment. St. Cecilia performed while bar patrons guessed who was really butch and who was really fem. The idea was to “swap” personalities and for those who are a typical fem lesbian, dress as a butch one, and vice versa. Much recognition should be given to the Lafayette Lesbian group for their efforts and ability to organize and generate visibility in our community. It’s great to see such a community coming together and it’s no doubt that more positive things are to come. You can follow the Lafayette Lesbian group by searching for Lafayette Lesbian on Facebook.

Chez Gisele

ecently I announced the opening of Chez Gisele, which will be held at Cite des Arts. Originally it was written that the opening night would be on Thursday, May, 20th. Very recently I received an email from the producers of the show stating that the date has changed. Chez Gisele is expected to now open on Thursday, May 27th. The show will now run all the way to Sunday, June 12th. I, personally, have yet to see the play but I am very excited that such a story will be displayed. Chez Gisele is a true story about one of the first gay bars in Lafayette that existed during the 1960s and 1970s, a time when such diversity was on the edge of acceptance. As the LGBT community battled for its place in the Lafayette community, a lovely French woman, who went by the name of Gisele, made sure that a place for love and acceptance was provided. Tickets can be purchased by calling 337.291.1122 or by visiting www.citedesarts.org.

Summer Loving

ummer time is a time for bonding and friendship. For some, you may even find that summer romance. I always adore when two people meet. It’s one of life’s miracles. The ability to share a life with someone and learn from them and reciprocate the ability is something that we should not take for granite. I encourage everyone to take the time this summer to step out of your comfort zone and get to know somebody new. You just never know what you’re missing out on. Remember Lafayette, you are what makes this town flourish with pride, culture, and diversity. As always, you’re listening up with Joey Collins. Keep the party going!

Benefit for HIV/AIDS

n Saturday, June 19th, Sound Factory will be hosting a benefit for Acadiana CARES. Tickets are $50 per person and this includes live entertainment, food, wine, well drinks, and draft beer. DJ Keith Doucet will be spinning his tracks while guests can bid on a silent auction. Please note that business casual or cocktail attire is required. No jeans or t-shirts are allowed. For many of you who may not be aware, this is an important cause. With the current recession and current state administration, budgets are being slashed drastically. There is no exception for Acadiana CARES. CARES is a crucial establishment not just in the LGBT community, but in Acadiana as well. Acadiana CARES provides prevention, education, awareness, and support on HIV/AIDS issues that affect our community on a daily basis. For more information on Acadiana CARES, you can visit www.acadianacares.org or call 337.233.2437. Much appreciation goes out to Sound Factory for hosting such an event.

Bar Spill

rab that sheet off of your bed, tie it around your waist, and head downtown to Jules, and yell TOGA!!! On June 12th, Jules will be hosting a Toga party. This should be a night of mystical fun as DJ Wuga mixes up tracks while bar top dancers show us what they’re working with. There’s still more to come when on July 17th Jules will host its annual white party. Don’t forget that Jules hosts drink specials each night along with free shots on the bar to unsuspecting visitors. As always, the best way to stay up to date is to follow Jules on Facebook. Tired of getting primped and trying to pick out that perfect impressive outfit for a night on the town? Well forget about all that wasted time because on June 5th Sound Factory will be hosting a PJ Party. Of course for those who wear nothing at all when they’re asleep, you may have to at least come in boxer shorts. On Friday, June 18th St. Cecilia will be performing once again. This band always seems to know how to romance a crowd.

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

Grey Gardens, A Review, with comments

he eccentricities of mother and daughter, Edith (Big Edie) and Edie (Little Edie) Beale, who became recluses in a dilapidated North Hampton eponymous mansion would not make much commotion in New Orleans. Faded and decaying mansions with overgrown gardens surrounding algae encrusted pools can be found all over the city even more so after hurricane Katrina. (Behind the Napoleon Avenue Chinese pagoda house, on General Pershing Street, can be found a home on a corner with an unkempt garden, in which the all of the first floor has survived a fire that has left it blackened. Apparently the residents just moved to the second floor. And should there be a fire on that floor, like Anne Frank, maybe they will move to the dormer windowed attic.) There are some differences between the Beales and New Orleans’ eccentrics, is that “ours” do not just stay at home like Edith and Bouvier Edie Beale and those inhabitants of Satis House created by Charles Dickens, Mrs. Havisham and Estella in his bildungsroman Great Expectations. “Ours” parade in the streets with pets like ducks, parrots, pot bellied pigs, miniature horses, llamas, constrictor snakes, or Capuchin monkeys; or wander about dispensing magic beads - dressed in black with silver accents of jewelry; or appear dressed like Blanche Du Bois in flowered chiffon dresses with matching pastel pill box hats and dyed shoes - only walking backwards in a turned out ballet dancer’s position. “Ours” are not content to appear in the streets but, they take over local stages. On stage they become fully alive. “Ours” sometime appear with portable puppets, in “gay” drag, or dressed as super-sized, oversized, over-the-top nuns. When not on the stage they take over the theater box offices, setting themselves up as tin gods/goddess dispensing rudeness - in all forms - and incompetence. Subscriber databases have been destroyed in creative ways by “our” eccentrics - so maybe we are long due for musical about the home grown crazies among us. Maybe this will be stage offering produced by the nepotism that will be part of this theater festival season at Noble Institutions. We can only wait and see. What is sad about Edith and Edie Beale, is that they are only famous for their lives as a folie a deux documented

in the 1975 documentary of the Maylses, brothers Albert and David, named after the decaying house and walled garden. Their lives as virtual hermits did not produce any great work of art, or spiritual awakening within themselves. At least another female recluse, Mrs. Sarah Winchester, the widow of gun magnate William Wirt Winchester, had the funds to create a Victorian mansion in San Jose, California. Mrs. Winchester was said to have resembled Queen Victoria; and like the

sion. The Winchester Mystery House, as it is now called, is a more imaginative and positive statement than the squalid and crumbling Grey Gardens. Doug Wright’s book for Grey Garden’s is constructed in a brief prologue and two acts. Sally Ann Roberts’ “‘better’ half or office/on air husband” Channel 4’s Eric Paulson’s voice-over as news announcer sets the scene in 1973 with the disgrace of the moldering mansion, Grey Gardens, and the reclusive mother and daughter Big Edie Little and Little Edie Beale (Janet Shea and Leslie Castay, respectively). Act I is set during a summer day in 1941 sung and crammed with incident, such as the impending announcement of body beautiful Little Edie’s (Kristin Wittherschein) engagement; and awkward foreshadowing, such as

the local New Orleans performers can do it better. Mr. Lokey seems born to play this type over and over and over again; but he does it so well. Leslie Castay’s performances, in dual roles, as the glamorous, self-centered Edith Bouvier Beale and the alopeicia afflicted, older Little Edie Beale were remarkable. Her parts were played distinctly and with a subtle intensity, and her singing voice was as good as such roles can get. She was unflappable and unforgettable; a star on stage if ever there was one in local community theater, Ms. Castay is that star this time. Elizabeth Donner as Lee Bouvier and Shane Fitzpatrick as Jacqueline Bouvier played their roles with a maturity of technique that is rarely found among such young, non-profession-

Leslie Castay & Vatican Lokey British monarch she suffered grief as a young widow. She also grieved over death of her daughter Annie. Instead of letting her sadness consume her, Mrs. Winchester, under the guidance of medium in contact with spirits, started with a simple farm house upon which construction lasted non-stop for 38 years until her death. Before the 1906 California earthquake, the house had been built up to seven stories tall, but today it is only four stories. There are about 160 rooms, including 40 bedrooms and two ballrooms, one completed and one under construction. Materials of quality and luxury were used in the construction; and modern conveniences for its time such as indoor plumbing, are part of the man-

Jacqueline Bouvier (Shane Fitzpatrick), at this time a young girl, being referred to as “Jackie.” Act II is set in 1973 and “borrows” all of the documentaries “best” situations in direct malapropisms, mispronunciations, misquotations, and invented musical numbers, except for one bizarre musical number when “pussy cat/memories/ghosts” enter and inhabit the stage. The part of George Gould Strong, Edith Beale’s pianist/”paramour,” was performed by Vatican Lokey as a stereotypical type of parasitic, sycophantic queen. With the fey dangling of a cigarette from his mouth, in a trout pout, Mr. Lokey once again played the role of a queer man with precision and sophisticated camp. No one among

als. Titian-haired Janet Shea as Big Edie Beale, in a Mother Bates steelgrey fright wig, was totally acceptable in her stunning copy of the role of this character as seen in the famous documentary and HBO film with Jessica Lange as Big Edie and Drew Barrymore as Little Edie. She became so alive on stage, her performance was etched like acid on a glass heart leaving behind traces and scratches of sadness, despair, pride, and need. Her command of a stage as an actress is nothing short of total astonishment over her theatrical abilities. Alex Martinez-Wallace as Joseph [continued on 49]

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CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

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300

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ST. LOUIS

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ROYAL

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ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

1000

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bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWNE PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 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] CAJUN COVE, 4550 Concord Ave. GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, GeorgesPlaceBR.COM HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Road, 242.9491, splashbr.com Lafayette, LA [337] BACK SIDE, 209 Jefferson St., 269.0430 JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson, 264.8000

cable shows New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 99

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C EL H YS 210 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is1210] RT PA M A R

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New Orleans, LA [504] AWESOME BODY RUB/ESCORT SESSION by masculine top stud. 6'0", 182#, w/ magic hands. 6am-mid. 7 days. 4 hands also avail. In/Out serving New Orleans, Baton Rouge, the Northshore. Call Charlie 504.430.7413 [is1110]

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PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St., 373.5431 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, TubbysBar.COM Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

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 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BOURBON PUB/PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107 BYWATER PATIO BAR, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM

circuit/events May 27-31, 2010, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.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 Dec. 30, 2010-Jan. 4, 2011, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM March 4-8, 2011, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.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

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

framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAMES, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726

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: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782

insurance New Orleans, LA [504] ALLSTATE: Buckwalter Insurance Group LLC, 2002 20th St., Kenner, 504.469.4800;101 Schexnayder Ln., Destrehan, 985.764.3833

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, E-mail us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "half-kitchen", courtyard and half-open 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] FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. E-mail us at reservations@bpmhotels.com. Official Host Hotel of Oz New Orleans. One of several French Quarter residences that have been painstakingly restored and transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites, executive townhouses, intimate cottages and comfortable rooms. Adjacent to the French Quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. 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. [0111] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. E-mail us at reservations@bpmhotels.com. One of several historic New Orleans homes and cottages that have been lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms, spacious multibedroom suites, luxury townhouses and cot-

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 25-J une 7, 2010 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec

tages. Adjacent to the French Quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621

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museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 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 GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 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 10am4:45pm

LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 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, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666

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

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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 METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 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 12:15pm Solumn Mass, 5pm Praise & 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, w w w . b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , pastor@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 FRIDAY NIGHT 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, Email: 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 701566836; 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, KreweOfPetronius.ORG 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 70117-4035, 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 MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, PO Box 15889, 70115-5889 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, 828A 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, 828-A 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 PRIDE CELEBRATION OF NEW ORLEANS: NOLA PRIDE, 2114 Decatur St., 945.1103, NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 SOFTBALL LEAGUE FORMING THIS SPRING-All skill levels from beginner to advanced. For more information, visit www.nolasoftball.com THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 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 YWCA AIDS 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 DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455 FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845 FRENCH QUARTER VET, 922 Royal St., Office 322.7030, Cell 250.1175, DrScott@TheFrenchQuarterVet.COM

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] BARRY DAVIS PLUMBING, LLC, no job to small or large, free estimates, 272.1582 [is810] 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: 891.6400, brettinla@aol.com

restaurants Metairie, LA [504] ROOBA'S CRESCENT SPOON CAFE, 2307 Veterans Mem. Blvd., 830.1035, Roobas.COM 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 Krystal, 116 Bourbon @ 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 The Pelican Club, 312 Exchange Alley, 523.1504, PelicanClub.COM Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] ALTERNATIVES, 907 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.5222 BOURBON-STRIP TEASE, 205 Bourbon St., 70130; 581.6633, bourbontease.com THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 711 St. Peter [in French Quarter], 525.4372; 4901 Canal St. [near City Park Ave.], 488.4889, HerbImport.COM LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423, laminasterling@gmail.com PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 SERENDIPITOUS MASKS, 831 Decatur St., 522.9158 Slidell, LA [985] THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 1331 Englewood Dr., 643.8007, HerbImport.COM

spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539]

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

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] LE PETIT THEATRE DU VIEUX CARRE, 616 St. Peter, 522.2081 MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, 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, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM

NOLA Pride NOLAPride.ORG

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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

iss and Mr. NOLA Pride Pageant was the first major fundraiser for NOLA Pride Fest scheduled for June 25-27 raising some $1,300 for the organization. Emceed by King Cake Queen XVII Opal Masters and Satyricon Captain Toby Lefort, the affair ended with the crowning of Tami Tarmac and Travis Bergeron as Miss and Mr. NOLA Pride 2010 at Show Bar of the Year JohnPaul's in New Orleans. For additional information on the celebration, visit NOLAPride.ORG. (Photo: Emcee Opal Masters, entertainer Regina Adams, Miss & Mr. NOLA Pride Tami Tarmac &Travis Bergeron, Pride Grand Marshals Steven Forster & Cathy Fox, entertainer Zsa Zsa D'laHor & emcee Tony Leggio)

utgoing Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Paloma and Tittie Toulouse announced their successors Toby Lefort and Julien Artressia (center) as Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVI. The festive show and after-party was hosted at Dance Club of the Year Oz in New Orleans. The new grand marshals will lead the 39th Southern Decadence celebration of gay life, music and culture Labor Day Weekend, September 1-6. Check SouthernDecadence.COM for the latest events and party information.

aster Grand Marshal VII (left) Mike Moreau (Opal Masters) celebrates the life of Co-Easter Grand Marshal VII the late Duane "Doc" Reed at a grand send-off hosted by The Double Play in New Orleans. Easter Grand Marshal XI and Double Play owner Chuck Turner welcomed friends of Doc, and as a tribute anyone drinking gin (Doc's favorite brew), was on the house for the duration of the evenings festivities. Doc was the former long time manager of The Double Play starting as a bartender under the late Miss Do.

ocal personality Wilhemina was thrown a surprise birthday party by long-time friends, Bartender of the Year Jeff Palmquist and partner, Entertainer of the Year Coca, at their Bourbon Street home in New Orleans. All of Wilhemina's friends chipped in for a fab gift certificate at William Sonoma, since Wilhemina is quite the chef. (Photo: Sam, Aletha, Lafitte's manager Jerry, Wilhemina & Paul, back - DJ Myke)

ractice manager Lee Griffith and Dr. Scott Griffith welcome guests to the grand opening of The French Quarter Vet at 922 Royal Street in the heart of the French Quarter. The French Quarter Vet offers the New Orleans animal community emergency veterinary services as well as medical, surgical, and dental veterinary care. With an in-house pharmacy and access to specialists, the facility offers a one stop for your pet’s health and medical care. Visit TheFrenchQuarterVet.COM for more information.

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big easy

papar azzi

NOLA Pride Grand Marshals Steven Forster & Cathy Fox

Miss contestant Barbara Ella

Mr. contestants Shay & Travis Miss NOLA Pride 1st runner-up Bubbles Champagne Emcees King Cake Queen XVII Opal Masters & Satyricon Capt. Tony Leggio

Mr. contestant Shay Miss NOLA Pride winner Tami Tarmac Entertainer Zsa Zsa D’laHor Mr. & Miss NOLA Pride 2010 Travis Bergeron & Tami Tarmac

Mr. NOLA Pride winner Travis Bergeron

Miss contestant Miss D

Entertainer Regina Adams

Team Travis

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Mr. & Miss NOLA Pride Pageant @ JohnPaul’s ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen

Miss contestants Miss D, Barbara Ella, Bubbles Champagne & Tami Tarmac

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Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes live @ Cutter’s

DJ P, Pride Co-Chair Darrin, Rikki Gee & Pride Grand Marshal Cathy Fox join the “Voice of Pride” Karaoke Contest kickoff @ Bywater Patio Bar

The gang enjoying Zoo To Do

Wendy, Sandy, Cassaundra & Cheryl @ Zoo To Do Robert & Andrew celebratin’ @ Wilhemina’s Surprise B-day Bash

Starlight bartender Marcy & Big Daddy’s bartender Lester cocktailin’ @ Cutter’s

NO/AIDS Task Force Exe. Dir. Noel Twilbeck & Pride Co-Chair TJ Rogers @ Saints & Sinners Literary Fest kickoff party @ the Bourbon Pub

ambush

papar azzi DJ Joe joins DJ Myke @ Wilhemina’s Surprise B-day Bash

You can now take a picture with a drag queen on Bourbon Street for $1

Society Page’s Orlando pops in for Cutter’s Chocolate City My Ass Party

Mardi Gras Productions sexy mermaid @ Zoo To Do

Bon Maison Guest House’s Butch & Chuck @ Wilhemina’s Surprise Birthday Bash

Cutter’s is packed for it’s Chocolate City My Ass Party bidding good riddance to Ray Nagin

Tami supplementing her income on the street corner @ Dumaine

James & Scott @ Zoo To Do

Frank & Wood Enterprises GM Ken celebrate @ Wilemina’s Surprise Birthday

Peewee, Friendly Bar bartender Rene & Cutter’s bartender Blake @ Cutter’s Chocolate City My Ass Party

Sister Sledge live @ Zoo To Do

Texting while bartending is all the rage now @ JohnPaul’s

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Parties & Events ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Jeff Palmquist

Max & Josh celebrate @ Wilhemina’s Surprise Birthday Bash hosted by Josh & Jeff

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out & about in mobile A Break for Memorial Day, then Mobile Looks Ahead To Bleather! Bleather?

ven with a gigantic blob of petrol hovering off shore, the annual pilgrimage to Pensacola for Memorial Day Weekend is sure to send some packing. But if we can make it through the holiday weekend and the crude don’t rise, Mobile will soon be turning its attention toward the weekend of August 6-8.

hot tails of red stick by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com

Baton Rouge Pride Fest

lans are in place for a great celebration when the fourth annual Baton Rouge Pride Fest is held June 26. This year’s events will be from noon until 6pm inside the Belle of Baton Rouge Atrium (formerly the Sheraton Atrium) at 102 France Street in downtown Baton Rouge, and there’s a great lineup for the community resource fair and an entire afternoon of entertainment. “It’s going to be a great time for everyone,” says Tom Merrill, chair of the Pride Fest team. “We’re beating the summer heat by moving everything inside, and we’ve got some great entertainment, as well as the community resource fair that serves as our centerpiece each year.” Organizers have invited back all 40-plus non-profit organizations, groups and businesses that participated in last year’s community resource fair, and they’re seeking any others interested in participating. Entertainment for the event includes Baton Rouge’s own legendary diva Daphne MuShatt, who is returning this year and will be accompanied by the band known as Miss Jane. In addition, Toni O and Blue Haze from Baton Rouge will open the festivities, and other entertainment will include Baton Rouge’s Krewe of Divas, a Gamma Alpha Psi step show, and much more. The events also will include the traditional blessing of relationships conducted by Metropolitan Community Church of Baton Rouge pastor, the Reverend Keith Mozingo, and the recognition of Krewe of Apollo founder and long-serving community leader Larry Fremin as this year’s Grand Marshal of Pride. It’s being coordinated and sponsored by Metropolitan Community Church of Baton Rouge in cooperation with the Krewe of Apollo Baton Rouge, HAART, Capital City Alliance, Gamma Alpha Psi, Krewe of Divas and other cooperating partners and dedicated individual volunteers. In addition, other generous sponsors include Cox Com-

munications, the Caring Clinic of Louisiana, Gerry Lane Enterprises, Ascension Wellness, Avita Drugs Specialized Pharmacy, Shad Duplessis and Peter Lewis, Tom Merrill and Rick Cain, George’s Place, Joe Traigle, ACLU of Louisiana, Baton Rouge Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, Dr. Carlton Carpenter, Olympus Bar, Tiger Truck Stop, Audubon Nature Institute, Embassy Suites, Bounce ‘n’ Around Inflatables, and a variety of other individuals and businesses. For more details on the events, visit www.BRPrideFest.com. To volunteer to help with planning or to find out ways your group or organization can become involved, visit that site or phone 225.907.5251 or e-mail BRPride@bellsouth.net.

June Ball

hica LaRouge, with the Krewe of Divas, has announced information concerning their bal masque, which will be held June 19 at the Union Hall, 1233 Government Street. This will be their fifth annual event or ball. The theme is “A Night of Darkness.” This will kick off Pride in the Baton Rouge area which runs from June the 19th until June 27th. Miranda Mann and Vincent Adams are the current reigning royalty for the Krewe of Divas. The Queen-elect is Miss Chica LaRouge and the Kingelect is Chansley Dykes of George’s Place. The doors will open at 8pm, and tickets are $20 for age 21 and over and $10 for anyone under 21. They are on sale now. You can purchase tickets from a krewe member or at the door. Alcohol for this great event will be provided by Splash of Baton Rouge. It is an open bar. Casual to proper attire (no jeans, tennis shoes, etc.) is the dress of the evening. The Krewe of Divas is sponsored by George’s Place of Baton Rouge, the Drama Club of Houma, Splash of Baton Rouge, Club Olympus of Alexandria and J.W. Crabtrees of Gonzales. For more information on the Krewe of Divas or the ball, please feel free to

That’s when bear and leathermen (and just plain MEN) take over the port city’s LGBT block for Bleather Weekend! OK, Bleather’s not yet a household word, but last years first ever BearLeather Weekend attracted a large contingent of men from Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi... as far away as Wisconsin. This year’s “Bleather 2” Weekend is expected to do the same. The concept? It’s similar to LUEY Weekend in Houston... men’s clubs along the Gulf Coast host a series of free cocktail parties and cookouts at participating bars in Mobile. Key events are the Mr. Southern Renegade Leather contest at B-Bob’s that Friday night, with the Mr. Gulf Coast Bear contest at B-Bob’s on Saturday evening. There’s even a Saturday afternoon cookout and Sunday Brunch (at Midtown Pub). Gabriel’s Downtown also plays hosts to events. Members of the Gulf Coast Bears and the Southern Renegades have already begun planning and promoting the weekend. They’ll be announcing a host hotel in a few weeks. It’s not a run, so there’s no run package to buy. Just show up! Sure, you’ve got Memorial Day Weekend on your mind right now, but Bleather 2 doesn’t happen until August, so you’ve still got time to plan your trip to “The City that BP Forgot”. You can find out more about Bleather Weekend at www.mobilebleatherweekend.com. There you’ll also see some photos from last year’s Bleather Weekend. You can also keep up with plans for the event at www.southernrenegades.com. Or you can just ask the bartenders at B-Bob’s. And bring a man or two. "We’ll put ‘em somewhere."

go to www.KreweofDivas.com, or visit the group on Facebook under the same name.

Great Night

t is always nice when I dine with Gerry, but last week, two more were added to our cast of diners. Bill and Harris are the new kids on the block, and we, of course, chose our favorite place, D’Angelo’s on Jefferson Highway. I was surprised at these newbies because I thought it was just Gerry and me. Harris was already there when I arrived, and I almost didn’t recognize him. He is this really nice and cute youngster who Gerry had told me originally was straight, and I kept telling him that he was not correct in this assumption. This all dates back to when we were enrolled in the wine tasting classes at LSU and held at The Chimes. I knew at the time that this was one hot and sexy guy, but Gerry kept telling me about his girl friend and advised me that it was a hands off situation. That was the last I had heard of Harris until I walked in to D’Angelo’s, and there he was. We had a nice chat waiting for Gerry and Bill, who I knew from seeing at Hound Dogs, but I waited to hear the introduction. It was “boy friend.” Well, feature that! I suppose I was expected to be shocked, but I had seen it coming some two or three years ago. Time passes so quickly, I can’t keep up with years anymore. At any rate, I’m happy for Harris if he is happy, and that seems to be the case. He is definitely one of the nicest guys I’ve met in quite some time. Of course, that definitely includes Gerry. I think we date back to meeting at Hibiscus Bookstore, but I’m not even sure anymore. It is just a friendship that developed instantly, and we’ve been pals ever since. Gerry is one of

my dearest friends, and I think he is one of the more interesting and intelligent ones I hang out with. I can talk and share with him, something you just can’t do with everyone. There is a connection of trust and respect here, and that is what a good friendship is all about. Many people go through life and never experience this. I treasure my friendships, and I definitely treasure my relationship with Gerry. He is a gem of humanity. After we finished dinner, they wanted to visit Cajun Cove, so I took them over and introduced them to everyone there. It was nice to be out with them, and I hope we can do it again soon. Life is all about sharing good times, and that was a very nice evening that I hope will soon be repeated.

Once Upon A Time

obert and Brandon are keeping a low profile lately. I suppose that may be an understatement since I really don’t see them enough anymore to say that. Occasionally, I’ve seen Robert darting around downtown when I’m driving around, but I haven’t seen Brandon since they moved to the Kress Apartments. I miss the activity that went on when they lived next door to me. Things seem to change so quickly. Of course, there are things that never change, but sometimes they do move around some. I think complaints were raised about the group meetings on the front porches on Spanish Town Road. I’ve noticed lately that the gatherings are a block or so away from the store area. I always see my friend Robert here. This one is not to be confused with the previous Robert I mentioned. This is the Robert that holds up street signs, but I haven’t [continued on 49]

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Guy & Cory

rpa ed stick par azzi Bill, Harris & Gerry

Jared

Little Corey grabs a cutie

Cajun Cove bartender Clayton Cajun Cove’s Reverend Tony Jason @ Cajun Cove

All smiles for a photo Darryl @ Splash

Sexy trio @ George’s

Angie & Henry

Mike, Richie & Craig Cute couple @ George’s

Regina, Guy & Effie

The Reverend Keith with Frank

Beautiful Beau with friends

Out for a night on the town

Having fun @ George’s

Richard & Chansley

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Sexy, Beautiful, Fun ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Luther & Chansley

trodding the boards ...from 34 Patrick Kennedy, Jr., Little Edie’s patrician intended, and Jerry, the Marble Faun, is a very handsome actor who really did an excellent job with these two roles. A stunning performance in bit parts in what is basically a woman’s musical. (And theater queens gasped with pleasure a and lustful approval when he appeared in a period 1940s swim suit.) Kristen Witterschien as the young Little Edie Beale was simply amazing in her vulnerability and yearning for love and escape. She gave an unforgettable and stunning performance.

Christopher Lloyd Shaw was very convincing as Major Bouvier and Norman Vincent Peale. Ron Flagge as Brooks, Sr. and Brooks Jr., the faithful, Lillian Hellman character-like retainer was sufficiently loyal. There was no lack of fine talents on the Le Petite stage regarding both large and small parts in the run of this peculiar and nihilistic cult musical. Each was a sublime performance and the major contributions of the tech crew added to the professionalism of this sad, weird show which seems to have become a camp diversion, especially [continued on 54]

hot tails of red stick ...from 46 seen him doing that lately. I guess he has changed his ways of living – a little. Of course, if he is like me, the trips to New Orleans are few and far between now. I did go with Sam last week to the World War II Museum, and it was an enjoyable experience. I especially loved the film in the separate building across the street. It is just something that everyone should see. I plan to go again for the film. The museum is great, but it all comes to life in the movie. “Beyond All Boundaries” is an exceptional movie experience, and I highly recommend that you see it. After this, we made our way over to Bywater Bar.B.Que and made it inside just before the rain started. It was a nice dining experience, but, of course, the patio was just a little too wet for us to sit there. I had looked forward to that so much, so that dining event will have to come at a later time. Afterwards, we went across the street and roamed through the antique store there on the corner. I didn’t see any eye-catching items of interest. I did see one book that tempted me, but I have so many books now that I hardly have time to relax with them, so I didn’t buy it. I think the next time I’m down in the Crescent City, I’ll try dining at the Country Club. I haven’t been there in a long time. With the weather threatening us, we decided to come on back to Baton Rouge. I really wanted to do some shopping at Rab Dab and maybe stop in for a visit with Kenneth, but this will have to come on another day. I’m not complaining about the rain. We really needed it badly, but it did hamper the activities a lot. There are lots of events coming up at Splash that you need to check out. Go to their web site - www.splashbr.com - and check it all out. They have some great

shows and theme nights planned. I really think Quentin is doing a great job here. Of course, he is one of the sexiest sweethearts I know. I may have to show up for the Ho Down on May 28 to see how he looks in western attire. He needs to borrow my leather chaps and jock. He could definitely fill out that jock properly. There will be plenty of country music and line dancing for everyone to enjoy, and that dance floor they have just can’t be beat. Splash ranks as one of the top dance clubs in the entire South, right up there with Oz and Emerald City. Joy mentioned Toga Night to be held at Hound Dogs, but she hasn’t provided me with anymore information, so if you are interested in this, drop by and check out their schedule. George’s continues to have top-rated programs for their customers, and the place is always packed. I think this is due to their advertising program. Advertising events is important, and this helps to stamp out any misleading information being handed out within the community. It is important to let everyone know exactly how your business operates along with the times of operation, and ads are permanent and self explanatory. This way, you have put it on record for all to see. Advertising can help any new business especially, and older businesses can benefit by continuing to keep in touch with the gay community through gay newspapers or columns that discuss community activities. Try this – and see results immediately. As a former business owner, I can vouch for the fact that ads really do help, especially in Ambush. For out-of-town visitors, they can direct these people to you easily. It may seem like a useless expense, but I believe if you will check around, you will find full support for advertising as being an integral part of your growth and success. It is a convenient reference tool, and I know it has worked well for George’s. Baton Rouge isn’t New Orleans. Bars are scattered out here, and it is difficult for visitors to locate each one. Ads will not only be seen in the pages of Ambush, but they will be online too. They are permanent reminders of what is available for your enjoyment. That ends my sermon. See you next time.

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Starlight’s Javier joins Marcy & Lucille for C. Ray Nagin’s Good Riddance celebration @ Starlight

Paul, Frankie, Don & Josh celebratin’ @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Bartender Matt serving up snacks for Happy Hour @ 700 Club

Corey & Paul behind the bar @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile

ambush

Mike, Darwin & Society Page’s Orlando celebrate @ Starlight for C. Ray Nagin’s Good Riddance bash

Pride Parade Chair Rip & Pride Secretary Steve

Party boys @ the corner of Elysian Fields & N. Rampart

New Orleans largest gay hotelier Blake Miller of French Quarter Suites & New Orleans Courtyard @ 700 Club

Mama Laura & Drew out @ 700 Club on a rainy afternoon

Josh shows off the 32" LCD TV prize to be given away during Ringo May 27 @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Yvonne & Mickey, two of the best hair dressers in the city @ Mickey Nolan’s Salon

JohnPaul’s Paul cocktailin’ with Cutter’s Mac

Preakness pool winners Lola & Jimmy presented by Mac (center) @ Cutter’s

Cutter’s Sunday Brunch Club kicked off this season with Dudley, Chef Jimmy, Jeff, Chris & Mac

Bartenders Stephen & Ritchie slingin’ cocktails @ Good Friends Bar

Entertainer of the Year Alex “Ama Rosa” doing Karaoke @ Lafitte’s

Kevin, Gary, Ed & Jason enjoy Lords of Leather’s Art, Wine & Cheese bash @ JohnPaul’s

Photographer Grey Cross exhibits some of his works @ Lords of Leather’s Art, Wine & Cheese bash

Keith, Pat, Lord King Alan & Miss LA Leatherette Kevin join the krewe’s Art, Wine & Cheese bash

Lord Bruce sampling the desserts at the Lord’s Art, Wine & Cheese

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Cocktailin’ in The Big Easy ~ New Orleans

papar azzi

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Farewell, Two Fundraisers ~ New Orleans

Easter Grand Marshal (EGM) XI Chuck & Starlight’s CW @ Doc’s Celebration of Life bash hosted by Double Play

Stuart, EGM IX Ron (Safonda), SDGM XXXVI Toby & EGM X Tony celebrate EGM VII Doc’s life @ Double Play

Connie H. was able to make her fundraiser @ JohnPaul’s which raised some $1,800 for her needs Brad & 4 Seasons Chuck join Mr. Louisiana Leather Toby Lefort’s IML Travel Fund benefit which raised some $1,300 @ Phoenix

Hailey Alexander joined the Connie H. fundraiser

Ken, George, Ben, Pat & Lord King Alan do the beer bust for the IML Travel Fund benefit

Panda Bear’s Ed does the 50/50 raffle for Toby’s IML Travel Fund benefit

Renown photographer Larry Graham & Mr. LA Leather Toby

snap paparazzi

EGM VIII Michael Elias & DB Carnes join Doc’s Celebration of Life bash

Laurence LeSage sang live for the Connie H. fundraiser

Buzzy’s Boys & Girls’ Todd, Marty, Jeff, Koo & Winnie @ Doc’s Celebration of Life bash

EGM X Tony, Jeff & Darwin do a toast to Doc Reed

New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus’ Cedric & Rusty pop in for the IML Travel Fund benefit

Toby receives a $100 donation from Southern Decadence Susan Lucci’s Rip & Marsha for his IML Travel Fund

Amanda Straddle in the Connie H. fundraiser

Mr. LA Leather Toby presents the winning basket to top bidder’s La Mina Sterling’s Aaron & Poncho

Miss Louisiana Leatherette Cathy Fox & Mr. LA Leather Toby Lefort

Miss Louisiana Leatherette Cath Fox pops in for the Connie H. fundraiser

Paul & Bobby Blue Salon’s Grant @ the IML Travel Fund benefit

Former Mr. Louisiana Leather Michael & Barry

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trodding the boards ...from 49 among the gay patrons (there will be a plethora of Big and Little Edie’s at Southern Decadence I can promise you). Superb sets were by Geoffrey Hall. Though a bit spare in Act I, luckily you did not have to smell the cats and racoons in the clutter of Act II; and blessedly did not have to scratch the fleas.

Leslie Castay & Janet Shea Costumes by Cecile Covert recreated the stylish glamour of the 1940s; and the unique fashion sense of Little Edie’s revolutionary costumes. (Recently racoons and alligators have been appearing in New Orleans neighborhoods. This fauna better beware. They may be trapped, turned into gumbo, and their pelts and skins become the latest in New Orleans drag or revolutionary costumes. Da da da da dum.) The lighting by Scott Stewart illuminated the faultless direction by Aimee Hayes. Ms. Hayes, working on her first New Orleans musical production, does an as expected perfect job. Jeffrey Gunshol did the choreography. Musical Direction and Sound Design is credited to Eric Shimelonis. But, major Kudos to Alan Payne for conducting the eight piece orchestra with style. Mr. Payne’s direction of the orchestra did a excellent job interpreting the music of composer Scott Frankel who tried ever so hard to sound unique and/or original. Unfortunately Mr. Frankel but wrote nothing to remember with several tributes in the score to established composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Noel Coward, Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber, and Stephen Sondheim. The witty, brittle, bitter lyrics by Michael Korie strengthened the campy aspects of this show. I look forward to their creation of a musical inspired by the film Whatever Happened to Baby Jane or perhaps a chamber opera based upon the Vietnam War. Grey Gardens as produced by the Solomon Group for Le Petit du Vieux Carre and Southern Rep was a stupendous and well done effort. Upon reflection however it seems like an attempt to make clever music out of a great, minor tragedy about one-time meaningful lives. This is little more than a schadenfreude show that allows luckier people to come and laugh at the fallen. I did not find it funny at all. But there was a lot of laughter from the full house audience that night. Perhaps it should be named The Scapegoat Follies, Fey Gardens, or Gay Gardens. In an interview on his return to an impeccably restored Grey Gardens, Albert Maysels commented that Big Edie and Little Edie, long dead, loved the documentary he and his brother, David, with their partners, Susan Froemke, Ellen Hovde, and Muffie Meyer, produced. But, they had hoped there would have been more singing in the completed film. Maybe they are looking down with approval on the musical version on their lives. It does seem a shame that they could not have shared in its’ acclaim and any of its profits.

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