Issuu

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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

ood Friends Bar hosted Oktoberfest with Max, manager Neel, Chris, Miss Trailer Park Tutu Sugar Rich (the giant St. Pauli Girl) and bartender Nick in New Orleans. The party night featured Paulaner Beer with its own give-away glass and a Bavarian Buffet. Info on the "always snappy casual" bar is available at GoodFriendsBar.COM.

inners in the annual Mr. Louisiana Leather 2011 competition were on stage at Oz in New Orleans presenting Mr. Louisiana Leather Troy Powell, 1st runner-up Jose Gonzalez and 2nd runner-up John East. Troy will represent the Lords of Leather at the International Mr. Leather in Chicago Memorial Day Weekend 2011. The contest raised funds to put on the Lords of Leather 28th Bal Masque on March 6, 2011. Visit LordsOfLeather.COM for additional information.

oorman Dennis and manager Jerry, join bartenders David, Damon and Brandon, aka Fraulein Hanna, as Cafe Lafitte in Exile celebrated Oktoberfest with authentic food from the Black Forest in New Orleans. Here Spaten Beer was featured with its own give-a-way glass. Lafitte's is the oldest gay bar in North America and was voted Neighborhood Bar of the Year in 2009 and 2010 by the readers of Ambush Mag. For more on the bar, visit Lafittes.COM.

avid, Troy, manager Joe and Nick welcome patrons to Oktoberfest at Rawhide 2010 in New Orleans complete with German food on the buffet featuring Warsteiner Beer with its own give-a-way glass. Rawhide was voted one of the Top 10 Leather Bars in the country. Visit Rawhide2010.COM for additional information on the bar.

he Krewe of Petronius' "Dragging For Feathers" brought Satyricon Captain Antoinette Ella Chardonnay, Queen Petronius L-Elect Bootsie DeVille, Amon-Ra Prom Queen Deja Deja Vu, Queen Petronius XLIX Natasha Sinclaire, King Cake Queen XIV Princesse Stephaney, Pride Grand Marshal Cathy Foxx, Queen Amon-Ra XLV Countess C. Alice and King Cake Queen XVI Tami Tarmac to the stage at Show Bar of the Year JohnPaul's in New Orleans. The event raised funds to put on the krewe's 50th bal masque on February 12, 2011.

errets rule the House of Ambush and are ready for Halloween 2010 playing in their own Halloween pumpkin. The babies reside in an antique armoire turned into a cage in the third floor boudoir of Ambush publishers Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. On the left is rescue ferret Cotton Boy with his older sister Queenie and on the right is one-year old baby Sassy with older sister Queenie.

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

Vote November 2nd; Ambush Issues Endorsements

e sure and vote on Tuesday, November 2. This election is very important and will decide representation in Washington, as well as state, and local races. This is not the time to vote Democrat or Republican, it is the time to vote on the best candidate who will strive to accomplish the task at hand. Polls are open from 6am-8pm. Ambush has issued the following endorsements. U.S. Senator - Charlie Melancon U.S. House of Representatives, 1st Congressional District - Myron Katz U.S. House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District - Congressman Joseph Cao U.S. House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District - Ravi Sangisetty Lieutenant Governor - Caroline Fayard Orleans Parish: Judge 1st City Court, Section C - Jennifer B. Eagan

State Representative Juan LaFonta Endorse Cao for Congress

tate Representative Juan LaFonta (Democrat) finished second in the Democratic Primary. He endorses Congressman Joseph Cao for reelection. Representative LaFonta issued the following stagement: “I am a lifelong resident of New Orleans and a lifelong Democrat. “In this city there have been too many political games played on the people. Katrina, FEMA, the Road ‘Home-less’, the oil spill…all of the recoveries… “I remember the first time I showed up on Capitol Hill a week after Katrina and the Democratic National Party told me that recovery and the issues we faced were local issues, issues that they do not get involved with. I said, ‘Well what in the hell do you exactly get involved in?’ “I remember walking into state offices and getting the same response. I am constantly reminded of the times I, like my constituents, needed help and was handed some red tape. I am tired of the games. People are hurting here! That is no slogan…it is a reality. “It is a reality that this city cannot any longer be just a pipeline for politics and cronyism. This city is full of people who are still waiting to be made whole. “This is not about a national game, a republican and democratic game. This is about our responsibility to have a local leader we trust will represent our interests, not some political agenda; a local leader who is honest, who we can trust to continue carrying the fight to Washington for the full recovery of the whole city…not a person who sits by as his own district remains the poster child for recovery…a representative district that is gripped by disrepair and diminution in funding and is waiting on their piece of the pie. “For years this city has suffered because we have forgotten the fight that helped us to progress in this city. We have forgotten to hold politicians’ feet to the fire by voting them out of office when they don’t do their job. We should not be promoting politicians when they do one of the worst jobs in the legislature, when they have failed so many…we should not promote the people who failed us. “When we do that, then it is our fault. “Our priorities need to be focused on a future that we can we be proud of, that we fashioned for our children not one carved out for us by some politicos. “I was elected to help this community. I stand against corruption because it is at the very root of our recovery problem. “I was elected to serve people and stand against those who use their public offices to serve themselves while the rest of us struggle to rebuild our lives. “And most importantly, I was elected to represent a portion of this congressional district with honor and integrity, and to speak out when I knew dishonesty and corruption threatened to undermine what we have worked so hard to achieve.

inside

Pre-Thanksgiving Issue out Nov. 9 DEADLINE: Tues., Nov. 2

celebrazzi under the gaydar 27th halloween: famous spotlight/tommy elias, letters gay mardi gras 2011 snap paparazzi/new orleans chop chop/nola restaurant guide the pink pastor

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classfieds acadiana happens/lafayette acadiana paparazzi/lafayette trodding the boards/new orleans snap paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/new orleans 40th southern decadence ambush paparazzi/new orleans

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

“I must speak out now. “So who will have the courage to step forward and demand answers? “I will. And as the truth comes to light, I hope others will join me. As the saying goes, I will stand for truth, no matter who tells it. I will stand for justice no matter who is against it. “I can only hope that you will do the same. That is why I am joining Democrats for Cao and endorsing the right choice…the re-election of a honest, hard-working man who has brought more than $1 billion to this district in just two years of service. “Congressman Cao, I proudly endorse you and ask others in this district to do the same.”

Forum For Equality PAC Makes Endorsements

he Forum For Equality PAC membership interviewed candidates for the November 2 election on numerous topics including economic development, crime, government ethics, education, and equal rights. The candidates listed below have received the Forum For Equality PAC endorsement. U.S. Senator - Anybody But Vitter U.S. House of Representatives, 1st Congressional District - Myron Katz U.S. House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District - Congressman Joseph Cao (Congressman Cao and Representative Richmond both interviewed with us and both were generally supportive of the human rights issues important to our organization. We were particularly impressed and appreciative that Congressman Cao voted for and co-sponsored the Federal Hate Crimes Bill and voted to repeal the blatantly discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” military policy. We are further impressed with his sincerity, honesty, and willingness over the last two years to discuss important issues with the Forum and other LGBT organizations. While we are impressed with Congressman Cao’s demonstrated commitment to equality for all citizens, we do not agree with the Congressman on all issues important to our organization, and look forward to further dialogue with him on those issues.) U.S. House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District - Anybody but Landry Lieutenant Governor - Caroline Fayard City of Shreveport: Mayor - Cedric B. Glover Orleans Parish: Judge 1st City Court, Section C — Jennifer B. Eagan

Be Famous for Halloween 27 Oct. 28-31

alloween's in New Orleans presents Halloween 27: Famous, the four day circuit celebration running Thursday, October 28 through Sunday, October 31. It is chockful of highlights to make sure your weekend is memorable. For advance tickets visit HalloweenNewOrleans.COM. The organization is led by co-chairs Jerry Q. Fredieu and Dustin Woehrmann, treasurer John Ramsey, general council Jason Waguespack, chair of fund development Don-Paul Landry, co-chairs of recruitment/host parties Claus Grassel and Scott Chapman, chair patron/sponsor party Kent Ozborn, medical Marthon Gimre, bars

Column Correction

n the last edition of Ambush, the column Under The Gaydar had an error in which it stated that Ramona Leger had died from AIDS. That was incorrect. Ramona’s sudden death in 1995 was from undiagnosed meningitis. Ambush regrets the error. Toby Lefort, distribution Seth Stringer and Bryce Scholl, and Project Lazarus liaisons Irby Petit and Steve Rivera. The mission of the Hosts of Halloween is to provide funding for Project Lazarus, a home in New Orleans for men and women with AIDS, so that they may provide healthcare and support services for their residents. Project Lazarus, which provides direct AIDS services, is the sole

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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-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, 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 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands, Patrick Shannon AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Devin Black, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen, Jeff Palmquist-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, 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 8 beneficiary of all funds which are raised. The past 26 Halloweens have raised a total of over $4 million for Project Lazarus oin Halloween’s in New Orleans as it presents “The Lazarus Ball” to kick-off the weekend! This year’s black tie optional function will include the fantastic silent auction that is always expected, as well as exceptional catering by some of the best restaurants in the city. “The Lazarus Ball” is Thursday, October 28th from 7-11pm at New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park. “Taste of New Orleans” features local restaurants: Cafe Amelie, Ralph’s on the Park, Court of Two Sisters, Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown, Commander’s Palace, Eat New Orleans, Broussard’s, KPaul’s Louisiana Kitchen, Capdeville, American Sector, Vega Tapas, City Catering, Gordon Biersch and Sun Ray Grill. Music is by MoJeaux with open bar and food included with admission. Door admission is $75. Nick Nevares is chair of the Thursday event, while James B. Williams and Marvin Andrade serve as cochairs of the silent auction. he Friday party ventures into the French Quarter with the “Feel the Fame” Party October 29th from 9pm-2am at House of Blues, 225 Decatur Street. FAMOUS celebrities are always seen at Hollywood’s most talked about parties. Friday night’s “Feel the Fame” Party will be one you won’t want to miss. The legendary House of Blues will be turned into the hottest dance party that rivals any after party in celebrity circles. Feel what it is like to be FAMOUS while walking down the red carpet as the paparazzi try to get that perfect shot of you to send to the tabloids. Once inside grab a drink, and dance the night away to the beats of DJ John Buckley and headliner DJ Alyson Calagna. So let loose your inner celeb, and come Feel the Fame! Open bar is included with admission, and the VIP Host Lounge is available for Halloween 27 Patrons, Benefactors and Hosts. Door admission is $50. Ryan Wentworth and Nick Landry are co-chairs of the Friday event. eturning to the amazing Mardi Gras World, the Main Event “Famous” Costume Party is Saturday, October 30th from 10pm-4am at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World – East

Bank, 1380 Port of New Orleans Place. Homegrown DJ Joe Gauthreaux returns from New York to make your Halloween weekend something special. Costumes are required at this dance extravaganza, featuring the annual costume parade and “famous” midnight show. Lighting is by Bryan Holcombe. NEW this year: hosts will be able to see the dance floor from the balcony! Open bar is included with admission along with the VIP Host Lounge available for Halloween 27 Patrons, Benefactors and Hosts. Door admission is $95. Jacob Villere and Nick Nesbit are co-chairs of the Saturday event with Arthur Roger serving as Saturday advisor. ack by popular demand and sure to sell out is the Halloween Brunch on the Steamboat Natchez on Sunday, October 31st. Boarding begins at 2pm / boat leaves PROMPTLY at 2:30pm. The Steamboat Natchez is at Toulouse Street and the River in the French Quarter. It includes a 90-minute cruise, brunch, music, friends (new and old) and an amazing view of the city from the Mississippi! "Come in costume and we’ll all head to the Quarter together after the cruise. Don’t miss the boat!" Select open bar included is included with admission. This event is $50. Check HalloweenNewOrleans.COM for ticket availability. Craig Trentecosta: and Khalil Bou-Mikael are co-chairs of the Sunday event. ccording to Project Lazarus Executive Director Eric Oleson, "2010 marks the 25th year that Project Lazarus has been in operation! It was created by a group of wonderful volunteers back then when just the mention of the acronym “HIV/AIDS” brought about a myriad of emotions and feelings in everyone. Many of those wonderful volunteers/ supporters are still involved with Project Lazarus today in some way, and several donate their support through Halloween’s in New Orleans. As always, we could not offer the special care and high level of services without the help of our Halloween’s in New Orleans volunteers/donors. Project Lazarus has always felt so very fortunate for all the help, attention and good will given by this lovely organization throughout the years. Halloween’s in New Orleans has been there for us since the very beginning of Project Lazarus and continues to rank as our number one (1) donor consistently! Please know that your donations to Halloween’s in New Orleans and to Project

Lazarus go far and wide toward the total process of offering the complete array of care and services made available for all people living with HIV/AIDS. We would also like to thank you for helping provide Project Lazarus with the funds necessary for additional programs addressing how to live and survive well managing this disease. Oftentimes residents are admitted to Project Lazarus that truly have no place else to go. They are from all walks of life because, as we know, this disease does not discriminate in the least. Ultimately designed to help people living with HIV/AIDS achieve total independent living once again, some Project Lazarus residents unfortunately do not survive the debilitating effects of this disease and must be put on hospice here at the facility. As every case is different, Project Lazarus has provided help and comfort to people living and dying of HIV/ AIDS because of you, through Halloween’s in New Orleans! In the past 25 years, Project Lazarus has helped over 1,000 people receive critical assistance who otherwise may not have received help from anywhere. For many residents now, Lazarus is a turning point leading to success and well being. Thank you Halloween’s in New Orleans! Once again, all of us here at Project Lazarus are so very appreciative of all the time and support you continually give to Halloween’s in New Orleans and to Project Lazarus. Your financial support through the years has absolutely made Project Lazarus the excellent facility it is today. If you are looking to become even more involved, please make note of our volunteer program in place and feel free to visit

the Project Lazarus campus anytime! We are always so glad to see you! We are so very grateful for all of our Halloween’s supporters!"

Catch The Dark Knight @ Bourbon Pub & Parade this Halloween

he Dark Knight swoops down over the French Quarter for a non-stop weekend filled with Halloween fun at the famed Bourbon Pub & Parade, 801 Bourbon Street, October 28-31. Join your favorite ghouls and goblins to haunt around the clock non-stop all weekend long – a New Orleans Halloween is like no other! The celebration starts on Thursday night with a Halloween Welcome Party and starts to boil over on Friday with a VIP Cocktail Reception, plus the spellbinding sounds of DJ Kimberly S! Get wild and wicked on Saturday night with a double dose of toil and trouble from back-to-back DJs Mike Bryant (early) and Paulo (late). Don’t miss out on all the tricks and treats on Sunday, Halloween Night, as diabolical DJ Manny Lehman presides over the musical festivities deep into the night. Weekend Passes are $70 and include: entry to all Bourbon Pub & Parade events Thursday through Sunday, plus welcome cocktail. VIP Weekend Passes are $100 and include: entry to all events Thursday through Sunday; welcome cocktail; hosted Friday VIP Cocktail Reception; Express Check-In and Express Entry. Only

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the "official" dish ...from 10 300 VIP Weekend Passes will be available, so get yours now. Purchase online at: www.bourbonpub.com. ($4 processing fee will apply to online purchase.)

Halloween Brings Queen of The Damned to Oz

xperience the magic Hallow een weekend as Oz, 800 Bour bon Street, brings you an incredible line-up Wednesday, October 27 through Sunday, October 31 as Oz brings you Queen of The Damned. Additionally Oz continues as the Official Bar Sponsor of the 27th Halloween Circuit Party (see page 14 for more on Halloween in New Orleans or visit HalloweenNewOrleans.COM). Oz's annual Employee Turn-a-bout kicks off on Wednesday, 10pm, as MC Persana Shoulders brings your favorite employees in drag to the stage. It's not gonna be pretty! Enjoy resident DJ Tim Pflueger during the show and after for dancing into the night. Thursday brings Male Strip-Off at 12midnight, also hosted by Persana Shoulders. It's your chance to win $100 cash for 1st place and a weekend pass with 2nd place winning a weekend pass. Thursday's featured DJ is resident DJ Tim Pflueger. Friday is one great night at the Land of

Dance with resident DJ Tim Pflueger and circuit great DJ Eddie Baez. Saturday brings back resident DJ Tim Pflueger and another circuit great, DJ Phil B. Sunday is the big night with Oz's famous Halloween Costume Contest at 12midnight hosted by the infamous Blanche Debris. Get ready to take home the big dollars with 1st place winning $300 cash, 2nd place $200 cash and 3rd place $100 cash. Both DJ Tim Pflueger and circuit great DJ Roland Belmares will have you on the floor into the wee hours of the morning. Johnny Eubanks does lights the whole weekend while 12 hot Men of Oz dance the weekend away. A limited number of Weekend Passes are still available. Visit OzNewOrleans.COM or follow them on Facebook - Oz NightClub New Orleans.

Essence.com Profiles First Wedding Featuring a Lesbian Couple

or the first time Essence.COM, the online companion to the preeminent black women’s periodical Essence magazine, will feature a lesbian couple in its “Bridal Bliss” section. Aisha and Danielle Moodie-Mills will be the first lesbian couple to have their love story and wedding photos featured on the website. They were married on August 7, 2010, at the Old Westbury Gardens in Old Westbury, New York. “Essence has a history of covering the LBGT community and the inclusion of Aisha and Danielle’s wedding in our Bridal Bliss feature is a natural extension of that commitment,” said Essence.COM Managing Editor Emil Wilbekin. “The Moodie-Mills are a wonderful couple with a beautiful love story, and Essence.COM aims to support and celebrate black women in all their diversity.” ”For 40 years, Essence has been the leading voice for black women,” said Aisha Moodie-Mills, president of Synergy Strategy Group, a Washington, D.C.-based political consulting firm. “We are honored that Essence chose to tell our story of love and commitment as it makes this historic step forward.” Earlier this year, GLAAD met with Essence to discuss increased inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people and issues. GLAAD brought Aisha and Danielle’s powerful story to Essence.COM as part of its Communities of African Descent program. The yearround program raises visibility of LGBT people of color in media outlets

as a means of growing acceptance of LGBT people in these communities. Aisha and Danielle were among those first couples to apply for a marriage license in Washington, D.C. after the capital became the sixth jurisdiction to legalize marriage. GLAAD was on the ground in March of this year training these couples to share their stories of lifelong commitment with America through the media. Aisha was one of the community leaders at the forefront for securing marriage equality in the district. The weekly “Bridal Bliss” feature, which has traditionally only showcased straight couples, includes an in-depth interview with the couple, a storyline of the couple’s six-year relationship and a beautiful slide show of the wedding. “By being featured in Essence, we are able to share the diversity of black women and our community with Essence readers and the broader African American and mainstream community,” said Danielle Moodie-Mills, senior manager of Environmental Education Campaigns for the National Wildlife Federation. “Other media outlets should follow Essence.COM’s strong example of including stories of gay and lesbian people that spotlight the rich diversity of our community and the issues that affect our lives,” said Jarrett Barrios, president of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). “It’s these stories that help grow acceptance of our community and give a voice to LGBT people of color who are too often invisible in the media.” The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) amplifies the voice of the LGBT community by empowering real people to share their stories, holding the media accountable for the words and images they present, and helping grassroots organizations communicate effectively. By ensuring that the stories of LGBT people are heard through the media, GLAAD promotes understanding, increases acceptance, and advances equality. For more information, please visit glaad.org. For the latest updates on our work, visit twitter.com/glaad and facebook.com/ glaad.

LadyFest New Orleans 2010 Celebrates Women In The Arts

adyFest is a non-profit, music, spoken word and arts festival organized by local women of all identities to showcase, celebrate and encourage the music, poetry, film, art and activism of women in New Orleans and to benefit local organizations that support women, and runs from November 3-7. In an effort to not over whelm the senses, LadyFest New Orleans is a 5-day event with each day offering something different while pairing musicians, artists and venues. The festival opens on Wednesday, November 3rd with 2 gospel music shows at St. Anna’s Episcopal on Esplanade, on Thursday the festival moves to the Balcony Music Club and on Friday, the performances take place at Sweet Lorraine’s on St. Claude. Saturday features Power Poetry at the Love Lost Lounge from noon until 6 and then the lady musicians take over the second floor of the Blue Nile. Sunday closes out the festival with music and visual art at the Ashe Cultural Art’s Center and then with film at the Zeitgeist. Local musician, poet and activist, Roselyn Lionhart spearheads the committee of local women volunteers that work together to help make this great event happen. The complete schedule of events includes: Wednesday, November 3, St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, 1313 Esplanade-6pm Mass Women In The Bible, 7pm Danielle Wilson & The Truth, 8pm N*Harmone’; Thursday, November 4, BMC (Balcony Music Club) 1331 Decatur-6pm Zena Moses, 7pm Wendy Darling, 8pm Meschiya Lake as Magnolia Beacon, 9pm Jayna Morgan, 10pm Jenn Howard; Friday, November 5, Sweet Lorraine’s Jazz Bistro, 1931 St. Claude-6pm Kat Walker, 7pm Amy Trail, 8pm Miss Sophie Lee, 9pm Holley Bentdsen and Amasa Miller, 10pm Charmaine Neville, 11pm Michaela Harrison; Saturday, November 6, Lost Love Lounge Poetry Power Day, 22529 Dauphine-12noon Lady Baby Miss music, 1pm Megan Harris (who will also emcee), 1:15pm Laura Anne Baselar Brown, 1:30pm Melinda Palacio, 1:45pm Laura Mattingly, 2pm Heather Tammany, 2:15pm Sunday Angleton,

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

Book of the Month: October

y life like so many others sometimes moves at break neck speed and it seems that things I love to do get shuffled to the side for more pressing matters, such as work, family commitments and social responsibilities. But one thing I always make time for is reading, not only because it relaxes me, but for a short time, my problems melt away and I enter into someone else’s

the "official" dish ...from 12 2:30pm Laurie Wiliams, 2:45pm Melanie Leavitt, 3pm Biljana Obradovic, 3:15pm David Leonard & Roselyn Lionhart music & Poetry, 3:45pm Katheryn Krotzer Laborde, 4pm Robin Kemp, 4:15pm Beverly Rainbolt, 4:30pm Gina Ferrara, 4:45pm Liz Garcia, 5:00pm Monica Miller, 5:15pm Cleopatra, 5:30pm Neti Vann & Hannah Kreiger-Benson music with a introductory poem by Esme Vaandager, 6pm Lee Grue; Saturday, November 6, Blue Nile Upstairs, 532 Frenchmen-6pm Beth Patterson, 7pm Lil Red and Big Bad, 8pm Ingrid Lucia, 9pm Susan Cowsill, 10pm Mary Lasseigne, 11pm Lynn Drury; Sunday, November 7, Ashe Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.-1pmNattie, 2pm Margie Perez 3pm MaryFlynn’s Prohibition Blues, 4pm Monica MacIntyre, 5pm Zion Trinity; Zeitgeist Multi Disciplinary Arts Center, 1618 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd-8 to 9pm Films by Autumn Leonard & Jocelyn Marquis.

National Black Justice Coalition Joins NAACP To Urge Voter Participation Nov. 2

he National Black Justice Coa lition (NBJC) an-nounced its partnership with the NAACP in an effort to increase voter turnout on November 2 and has launched its own GetOut-The-Vote web portal at www.nbjc.org/ gotv. This site gives activists an opportunity to help in the NAACP’s outreach efforts to ensure that voters across the nation and in key states are informed about campaigns and issues important to the African American community. In this crucial election, the stakes are particularly high for LGBT voters. Minnesota, New Hampshire, California and New York have become battlegrounds for marriage equality. Rhode Island and California candidates are seeking to become the fourth and fifth openly gay members of Congress. There are 435 U.S. House of Representatives seats, 37 U.S. Senate seats, and 37 gubernatorial seats hanging in the balance. Also at stake are the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”; Safe Schools legislation to end anti-gay bullying; and

world. A world that they have created just for me, the reader. October definitely is one of my more crazier months, so my reading habits have become a little strained, that is why I only have one recommendation this month, but it is one of my stalwart, favorite authors, who always produces top notch thrillers with every book. James Patterson’s newest thriller Private introduces a new detective series to

[continued on 16] repealing the Defense of Marriage Act. This is truly an important election for the entire community. National Black Justice Coalition Executive Director Sharon Lettman-Hicks stated, “Democracy is not a spectator sport. It is imperative that we recognize that each of us has a stake in this election, each of us stands to build on or lose the gains of the past two years, and each of us must do our part to protect our quality of life. Make sure that everyone in your network understands the importance of this election and what’s at stake for Black LGBT people and their families come November. For the future of our communities, we need you to vote on November 2 and take others with you to the polls.” The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. NBJC’s mission is to end racism and homophobia.

Harrah's Miracle on Fulton Street Returns Begins Nov. 23

iracle on Fulton Street, a holiday attraction in the heart of downtown New Orleans, will bring the magic and spirit of the holiday season alive for locals and visitors of all ages with a special lighting ceremony November 23 and full programming to continue through January 2. This free and open to the public event will open daily at 12noon. ”Over the years, Miracle on Fulton Street has secured its spot as a holiday tradition in New Orleans,” said Dan Real, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Harrah’s New Orleans. “At a time when most are saving money to buy gifts for their loved ones, it is a pleasure to add holiday cheer by offering this free and open to the public attraction. Each year we strive to make it bigger and better than the year before, and that will be evident to all who visit Miracle on Fulton Street this year.” Miracle on Fulton Street is sure to enchant guests with a dazzling holiday boardwalk, complete with Macy’s Tremendous Tree, which towers 30-feet in the sky; Macy’s Believe mailbox, where children can drop off their letters to Santa; and Santa’s Toy Box. Guests are encouraged to donate new or unused gifts valued at

$15 to benefit the Friends of the Fisherman Foundation. In exchange for the donation, patrons will get a complimentary photo with Santa. ‘Faux snow’ will be another highlight of the attraction. Periodic snowfalls, while extremely rare in New Orleans, are nonetheless ‘forecast’ for Fulton Street this holiday season every hour on the hour beginning at noon daily. On the weekends, holiday themed food and beverages including hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts will be available from street vendors and retailers on Fulton Street. Guests can also enjoy face painters; balloon and caricature artists; and a visit from live reindeer, Sweet Thing and Bubba. Live entertainment will take place on Fulton Square on Fridays and Saturdays from 8-10pm and on Sundays from 2-6pm. Performers will include top local bands and special performances. Chorus groups are scheduled to perform every Sunday. Beginning November 26, commemorative photos with Santa will be available in front of Macy’s Tremendous Tree, Fridays and Saturdays from 6-10pm and Sundays from 2-7pm. This year, Harrah’s Hotel will also shine bright in jewel colored lights with Christmas trees throughout the lobby and a gingerbread Superdome, in honor of the World Champions. The entrance to the attraction, located at Fulton and Poydras Streets, will be defined by a series of custom-built, faux wrought iron arches, accentuated by 12foot Christmas trees and 3-foot fleur de lis ornaments. The arches will create a dramatic canopy illuminated by thousands of LED lights. A computerized system will enable lighting technicians to create varied color themes against the backdrop of arches, ornaments and trees. Guests can extend their holiday cheer at Harrah’s Hotel with 25% off existing rates. Offer valid on a minimum of a two night stay during Miracle on Fulton Street. To take advantage of this offer, guests must book online at www.harrahsneworleans.com and enter promotional code MIRACLE. The special is available November 24 – January 2, based on availability. Rates exclude taxes, gratuities and incidental charges. Harrah’s New Orleans is operated by a subsidiary of Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc., the world’s largest provider of branded casino entertainment. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada nearly 70 years ago, Harrah’s has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions. Harrah’s Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership.

Home for the Holidays Dec. 23 @ House of Blues

he NOCCA Institute, House of Blues, and the family of Daniel Price invite you to Home for the Holidays at House of Blues New Orleans on Thursday, December 23. Home for the Holidays is a night of spectacular art and music benefiting the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists, which honors the memory of NOCCA alumnus Daniel

Price. In keeping with Daniel’s twin passions of art and music, the Fund provides scholarships for outstanding visual arts and music students at NOCCA. Home for the Holidays begins with a food-filled patron party and silent auction from 6-7:30pm. Entertainment will be provided by John Boutte, with a special appearance by NOCCA Jazz students. Patron tickets are $125 and entitle patrons to a buffet dinner and open bar. Home for the Holidays continues from 7:30pm-midnight with the official Home for the Holidays concert, featuring performances by Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers, Amanda Shaw, Rebirth Brass Band, Shamarr Allen, Paul Sanchez, Stanton Moore and the Anders Osborne Trio, Jonathan Batiste, Herlin Riley, the Eric Lindell Band, Rockin Doopsie, James Andrews, and Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue. General admission tickets to the concert are $30. Home for the Holidays takes place at House of Blues, 225 Decatur Street. To purchase patron and general admission tickets, or for additional information, please visit www.HOB.com/neworleans or call 504.310.4999.

A Final Farewell to Toni Pizanie

aturday, October 23 brought people from all walks of life to the memorial service of the late Toni J.P. Pizanie at the Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church in New Orleans. Friends were greeted by Toni's beloved God Child Amy Tower and her husband Bud. Rev. Clinton Crawshaw presided over the memorial mass. Moving eulogies were given by PFLAG president Julie Thompson, Ambush publisher Rip Naquin-Delain, former husband Paul Johnson, and friend Karen "Cookie" Vial. A special presentation by the Krewe of Petronius was made honoring Toni as the krewe's first female queen.

"The "The Lovely Lovely and and Talented" Talented" Toni Toni Pizanie Pizanie Here at Ambush, the publication received over a hundred emails, posts on Facebook and phone calls mourning the passing of the longtime activist, Ambush columnist and friend. She will be remembered, missed and as Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain always greeted her, they bid a fond farewell to "The Lovely and Talented" Toni Pizanie. Should you wish to remember her, Toni requested that donations be made to PFLAG Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 15515, New Orleans, LA 70175-5515.

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under the gaydar ...from 14 readers. After giving us Alex Cross, the Ladies Murder Club and Michael Bennett, Patterson brings to us a whole new undercover team with Private. Private is the world’s most powerful investigative firm which takes on the most twisted and almost unsolvable crimes. With offices in London, Paris, Los Angeles and New York, there will be no shortage of interesting new characters Patterson can develop. The firm is helmed by former Marine helicopter pilot Jack Morgan, who has model good looks, an intuitive instinct for crime solving and a horrible past. This debut novel in the series has the staff of Private tackling three mysteries. There is a multi million dollar scandal involving the NFL, a serial killer slaying school girls, and the murder of Jack’s best friend’s wife. This book turns up the heat full blast. As with most of his novels, Patterson is unrelenting in the action and his characters come through the pages in vivid detail. As the series progresses so does his characters. His books take on a more serial effect, where the characters get more fleshed out with each novel. Taking cues from today’s popular television culture, Private has many elements and similar characteristics from NCIS, CSI and Criminal Minds. In addition to the professional work the firm does, the personal entanglements of the staff spice up things in the Private offices. I especially like the plotline involving Jack’s twin brother. So if you are looking for a quick read that packs in the action, Private is for you.

Satyricon Hosts

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is offering up some great events in November. The first is the opening night performance of Love Child at Le Chat Noir at 8pm on Thursday, November 5. The play features Bob Edes, Jr and Brian Peterson. Come prepared to laugh as these two talented New Orleans actors play all the eccentric characters backstage, on stage, and in the audience. They navigate one person’s life through the people he has known and the play he now finds himself in…and the play within the play, and the play within that play’s play. This funny piece is about Life and Art, but, who’s imitating who? Also, just a friendly reminder that starting with Halloween, the New Orleans holiday season is in full swing. There will be many events hosted by the gay carnival krewes to help raise funds for their balls. So please keep an eye out for these events, because these monies go to your entertainment as all the krewes put on spectacular shows. Satyricon is kicking off the festivities with their annual holiday buffet and auction at The Old New Orleans Dance Hall located at the corner of Marigny and Chartres Street directly across from the Friendly Bar in the Faubourg Marigny. The event is from 1-4pm, with doors opening at noon. Their will be a complimentary buffet, a live auction of fabulous holiday baskets and décor, great performances by some of the best entertainers in the city, and our hot little elf boys. Tickets are $15. To buy tickets or find out more information, call 504.671.7410 or go to MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM.

auction, a fashion show sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue and a champagne bar hosted by the Shops at Canal Place. The following night on Friday, we “Feel the Fame” when we move to the legendary House of Blues for one scorching dance party from 9pm to 2am. DJ Alyson Calagna returns to her hometown to spin the night

away along with another native DJ John Buckley. All Hell breaks loose on Saturday night from 10pm to 4am at Mardi Gras World Eastbank for the “Famous Main Event.” In addition to having Steve Kemble, Sirius

Do Not Let The Fame Go To Your Head!

amous is almost upon us. Hal-loween 27 introduces Famous, a four-day event which all the life-styles of the rich and famous are played out at various locations across the Big Easy. The event takes place October 28 - 31 and it benefits Project Lazarus, a home in New Orleans for men and women living with HIV/ AIDS. When most people think about Halloween it is relegated to one night of fun, but leave it to New Orleans to spread it out over a four day weekend. The hosts and volunteers of Halloween live this holiday with passion. They spend eight months of each year planning the events. Countless hours of hard work has helped raise over four million dollars for Project Lazarus in its 27 years of existence. The board, hosts, corporate sponsors and the entire city of New Orleans welcomes people from all over the world to this spectacular party. The weekend’s festivities kick off on Thursday, October 28 with “The Lazarus Ball” at the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park. And none other than Steve Kemble, America’s sassiest life-style guru, will be on hand the entire weekend giving us fashion tips as he mixes and mingles with guests. This event is always a beautiful soiree that includes food by some of the best restaurants in the city, amazing music, gorgeous men and one of the best silent auctions ever. The entertainment this night is provided by MoJeaux and Taste of New Orleans. Included in the Steve Kemble, America’s Sassiest night’s festivities is an incredible silent

Life-Style Guru

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under the gaydar ...from 16 Radio is broadcasting live from the red carpet with the Frank DeCaro show. This is truly the best costume party in town.

There will be the Halloween New Orleans costume contest followed by the amazing midnight show. Local favorite, DJ Joe Gauthreaux will be the headliner. Finally on Halloween Sunday, we enjoy a little “Celebrity Rehab” on the Steamboat Natchez from 2-5pm as the boat chugs down the Mississippi River. Costumes to this event aren’t necessary, but they could be fun since you can continue the party afterwards in the streets of the French Quarter. And after every party, the gay bars of New Orleans have special fun and festivities planned so wander around our beautiful city and enjoy the holiday. For more information on buying weekend passes or tickets, go online to HalloweenNewOrleans.COM.

NO/AIDS Task Force’s CAN Project Turned 10 Frank DeCaro

he NO/AIDS Task Force’s CAN Project turned 10 this year and in true New Orleans fashion it

celebrated with a Pub Crawl - with a twist! CAN stands for Community Awareness Network and is an outreach program of the NO/AIDS Task Force. With it being the CAN’s anniversary, the fabulous minds of the Task Force came up with an “amazing” idea, thus the Gaymazing Race 2010 was conceived. I was lucky to be a part of this event which will now become an annual happening. And I am truthfully honest when I say that this event was unique, fun and educational all at once. Picture the Amazing Race meets Queer As Folk with a little dash of Glee and the L Word thrown in for good measure. What an incredible way to spend a Sunday afternoon and my team came in fourth place. Jeff Mallon, aka Elizabeth Bouvier, and I had custom tee shorts for our team of two: The Gulf Shore, Trashier Than Jersey. Costuming was all part of the fun, their was a team dressed as superheroes and one dressed like the Jersey Housewives which added to the celebra-

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under the gaydar ...from 17 tion of this debut race. But this pub crawl was one like you’ve never seen. All teams met up at the CAN Office at 507 Frenchman Street to begin the race with mimosas, bloody marys and brunch, and all of this was only for a $10 registration fee. The teams of 2 to 5 people made their way through a French Quarter Pub Crawl answering questions and completing challenges based on HIV prevention information. The hands on challenge of putting on a ladies condom almost had my team stumped, but we persevered and put our hands in that plastic vagina and made it work. There may be a few “roadblocks” thrown in to keep things interesting like doing shots, which I graciously took that one for the team. Winners were determined by overall time and successful completion of all tasks. Prizes weren’t just for first, second and third place. Best team name also garnered a prize basket, and their were surprises for last place and a few other categories. The fabulous prizes included restaurant gift certificates, bar tabs, a few things for use in the boudoir, wine, vodka, and even full weekend passes to Halloween in New Orleans. The venues that participated in the crawl this year was FAB bookstore, Starlight By The Park, Jaegerhaus, Good Friends, Oz, Bourbon Pub, Cafe Lafitte in Exile and Tubby’s Golden Lantern. JohnPaul’s graciously donated the bar at the beginning of the event. So next year when this race rolls around be sure to be a part of all the festivities and enter. For more information on the NO/AIDS Task Force or their CAN office go to NOAIDSTaskForce.ORG.

A Spooked Stritch

had just put the finishing touches on my costume when the doorbell rang at my house in the Marigny. “Well, hello Pocahantas,“ Elizabeth Bouvier said brushing pass me when I opened the door. She moved directly to the bar I have in my den and started fixing herself a drink. Not tonight, I thought to myself. I was dressed as an Indian chief with a giant feathered headdress and warpaint on my entire face, while she looked like a streetwalker in stiletto heels that glowed, a spandex pair of gold hot pants and a leopard skin top with a blond bouffant hairstyle. “Let me guess, Peggy Sue gets laid. Elizabeth, what are you doing here? It is Halloween.” “You do not have to be crass, first things first, you are almost out of vodka,” she made her drink, then took the last swig of the last remnants straight from the bottle. “Correction, you are out of vodka, but more importantly I have a lead on one of the suspects. We have to move on it quickly before he gets away.” “Are you crazy, I am not going anywhere, it is Halloween and I have plans.” “Well, tell that little cowboy of yours you will meet him later at the party and lets go.” “I do not know what you are talking about.” I said indignant and annoyed. “Oh please, Mary, I was just at Roget’s place questioning another suspect if you know what I mean, and I saw that little chef Colston dressed like the Marlboro man with his stetson hat and whip. A little too kinky for my tastes, but if you like it.”

“I do not know what you are talking about.” My face felt slightly flush. “It’s okay honey, I figured you swang that way since you have been hanging around me and not once have you tried to ravish me. You know I am quite the hot commodity, besides on my way out, Colston asked me to give you back your belt, you left it the other day when we were questioning Rhonda Roget and her staff.” Rhonda Roget is one of the most notorious madams in New Orleans and one of her boys may possibly be blackmailing Elaine Stritch, I mean Cathy Fox. The blackmailer seems to be a devious person who wants Cathy’s collection of crowns, sashes and pins, so she asked us to look into it for her. “Thanks for the belt, now where are we going?“ I knew their was no getting out of it so better to play along if I wanted to get out in time for a night out on the town with Colston. “We are following the first guy on the list, Renegade Robbie, and I have a lead that he is visiting a wealthy eccentric woman tonight out on River Road. One of the boys at the mansion gave me the address, he says they are friends, lets go, we do not have all night.” I sighed and before I knew it, Elizabeth’s car had turned down a darkened road in bayou country about an hour out of the city, we saw a sign that say the Belhurst Plantation. “This is it,” Elizabeth eased down the dirt road leading up to a dilapidated old two story home with oak trees covered in moss in front. No lights were on in the large house. It had a façade that looked weather beaten and falling apart. The place looked deserted. “Oh, hell no, we are not going in there” I stated. “Why? There is that Renegade Robbie’s sports car, the guy at the house said he drove a red Porsche.” “First off, I have read all the Louisiana ghost lore and this place is supposedly haunted and secondly, what are we going to do, waltz up to the front door and start asking questions.” “What you need to do is be quiet, reach in to the glove compartment and get me my emergency flask, Shelby needs her juice. Now lets go” We snuck up to the front door and Elizabeth tried the handle and the door swung open. “This is breaking and entering,” I whispered into her ear following her slowly into the foyer. “It is just entering, we haven’t broke anything yet, now take a swig of this and be quiet.” She handed me the flask and I quickly obliged. It was straight vodka. If I kept drinking this, I will start seeing spirits myself. We crept forward into the living room which was full of well worn furniture covered with dust. We moved from room to room downstairs looking for any signs of people. “I wonder who lives here,“ Elizabeth said. “I heard that some old woman who went crazy lived here. They say you can still hear her moan at night. Her name was Eva and she was a show girl in Las Vegas, but that was thirty years ago when they use to have a show.“ “Be quiet, I hear something. It sounds like moaning and its coming from upstairs. Do you think it could be the ghost?” The moans were followed by a guttural scream

that seemed to rattle the entire house. “That is it, I am out of here. I have seen enough scary movies to know that checking out the weird sounds upstairs in a haunted house is a big no no. And besides, only virgins live in those horror films.“ Elizabeth and I stared at each other for a moment. “You’re right lets call Robbie in the morning and meet at a coffee shop in broad daylight,“ Elizabeth said moving back to the front door. “She turned to me alarmed. “It is locked. What do we do now?“ “There has got to be a back door in this place, lets head over there,“ I said as we raced to the back of the house. We passed the stairwell and looked up. There was a ghastly creature standing at the top of the stairs looking down at us. The room was dark with only a small light coming from upstairs backlighting the figure just enough to see the outline. The person raised a bony hand and pointed a long skinny finger at us. A horrible moan escaped from its throat. “Move it sissy boy, this ghost bitch looks pissed,“ Elizabeth said knocking pass me and disappearing into the next room. I stared at the figure mesmerized for a second then ran. Elizabeth was nowhere to be found, so I began to panic and call her name. When I caught up with her she was positioned quite casually by a wet bar fixing herself a drink in a room we had not been in yet. “What the hell are you doing?” I said. Suddenly a hand clamped down on my shoulder from behind causing me to scream. “Who are you and what are you doing in Eva’s house,” said a nice looking young man in a motorcycle jacket and tight jeans. “Oh, that is my friend, Tony,” Elizabeth said, “he is gay so watch yourself with him.” She polished off her drink. “Tony, this is Renegade Robbie.” “Who was that monster on the stairwell?” “That was no monster, that was Eva, you just saw her without her wig and makeup, she is quite the attractive sort if you are into old ladies and humps in all the wrong places.” “I think I might be sick,” I said sitting down. A woman breezed into the room, who looked in her seventies with a short teddy style negligee and lots of wrinkles. Her wig was on and makeup had been applied but to no better effect. “Why are you in my house.” Elizabeth spoke up, “you see Eva sweetie, we thought you were dead, you can understand the mistake there, but we can see you are still around, barely, but still here. Anyway, we need to ask your man whore some questions if you don’t mind. Can I fix you a vodka stinger?” “No, that is okay, I will just sit it right here on this chair with this nice young man.” Before I could move she pounced on my lap like a jaguar and nestled against me. I smelled Vaseline petroleum jelly and coughed. “Oh, you do not like the smell, well at my age, I need all the lubrication I can get down there. BP could not spill enough oil to keep me wet in my nether regions if you know what I mean.” “Elizabeth, could you please hurry.” I pleaded. “Okay, so Renegade, tell me what you know about Elaine, I mean Cathy Fox.” “Nothing, we went on a few outings

and I serviced her right well, and that was it. She was into some kinky stuff, but nothing that crazy. She liked to have me do her with her crown on. It was like having sex with the mother of the prom queen. I kind of dig old broads as you can see, so it was no big deal. She seemed sweet. But I have not been with Cathy in months, she had another one of the guys who was her favorite. I am not sure what his name was, but you should try him. Now if you will excuse me, granny and I have to continue our night of fun.” “Sorry, babe, maybe next time,” Eva planted a big kiss on my lips and was off with Robbie. “You can show yourselves out. Baby, I might even put my teeth in tonight for you.” “Well make sure you use your Fixodent, remember they came off the last time and it took me an hour to disengage it from my…” Their voices trailed off as they returned back upstairs. Elizabeth and I used the back door and went back to the car. “Well, we are no closer than we were before.” “Oh, Tony, we are, we can now rule out Renegade Robbie, one down three more to go.” A twig snapped behind us. We spun around and Elizabeth screamed as a man in a ghost mask descended upon us. I pulled her away and we fell back against the car. “Would you two just calm down, this is Blaise,” Colston stepped out from the shadows dressed as a beautiful cowboy. “Elizabeth said you two were coming here so we thought we would see if you needed help.” “We seem to be done,” Elizabeth said her voice seeming strained. “Tony, you go and have fun with your friends. I have work to do, got to get on our next suspect.” “I think that can wait until tomorrow.” “Besides,” Colston said. “Blaise’s date for the night fell through, so I thought he would be perfect for you, why don’t we all go to the party together.” Blaise took off his ghost mask revealing a very handsome young man with smoldering eyes and dark hair. “I think that sounds like a great idea, come on Elizabeth. It is Halloween and you are dressed in a costume,” I said. “What costume, this is my detective wear, I am undercover,“ she sighed and relented. “Well if I must,” then she turned to Blaise. “Keep in mind, I am not easy, so you just keep your hands to yourself. But your tongue is fine wherever you want to put that. Chop, chop you two, we got a Halloween party to get to.” Blaise climbed into Elizabeth’s car and I followed Colston to his car. “You know this can turn into one scary night with Ms. Bouvier in tow.” “I think I will take my chances, besides, I can always get you to scalp her.“ He kissed me lightly and we jumped into the car. As both cars sped away from the house, no one noticed the guy dressed in black lurking in the bushes just a few yards away. He silently cursed. He was so close if it wasn’t for those damn guys coming in and spoiling it. But their time would come, he will make everyone pay including that Cathy Fox, blackmail was just the beginning of what was in store for all of them. (Enjoy the story and have a Happy Halloween.) Have an event or have something of interest to the LGBT community, feel free to send press releases or information to tonymgp@hotmail.com.

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

Tommy Elias

have to say, writing this column has been very inspirational. I have known most of the people I have spotlighted in my articles for years, but never really got to appreciate them, to understand their history and achievements. So I find myself very fortunate to have the opportunity to learn more about the amazing people that make up our gay community. My spotlight person for this issue is someone who I have admired for a long time, and up until recently, I never knew what a wonderful talent our community has in its midst. I am talking about Tommy Elias, one of the driving forces behind Oz nightclub. But knowing Tommy as associated with Oz, is only scratching the surface. Tommy was born in Laurel, Mississippi, which is where he spent his formative years. When he was 19, he started visiting his brother Michael, who was attending Tulane, in New Orleans. He would not come often, only when his brother was having a fraternity party. (I wonder if that is where college night at Oz developed all those years ago.) He received a BA in Fine Arts, and Tommy’s passion has always been musical theatre. So it is no wonder that his preferred style of music was show tunes along with big band and swing. He is a self taught guitar player who formed bands as early as 12. In college, Tommy was inspired by a famous fraternity brother of his who he used to listen for hours play jam sessions. And when Tommy was in San Diego performing, he heard one of his favorite songs, Come Monday, on the radio and he knew that his friend Jimmy Buffet had made it. Another local celebrity was also part of Tommy’s bands from the early years to recently. Barry Bareass has known Tommy since they were kids growing up in Laurel. Their first Beatle-esque inspired band together was called Weejuns, named after the shoes they all wore. In 1970, Tommy was part of a three month USO Tour that entertained the troops in Japan, Korea, Okinawa, Taiwan, Philippines and Guam. After college, he went on the road with his band and visited New Orleans sporadically, but soon his love of the city grew and he was determined that this was to be his home base. So he decided to go to the Marriott Hotel on Canal Street and pitch his band performing in their River Queen Showroom on the top floor. After listening to their tape, the management offered Tommy and his band the gig and was given a one month contract for October. The name of the band was Fancy Music and the time was 1976. So this column comes at a great time since it is the anniversary of Tommy’s first long standing musical job in New Orleans. After the month was up, they extended his contract for another six months. Once the Marriott job had ended, Tommy returned to the road playing venues from New Orleans to Cape Cod. While

back in the Crescent City before he went back out on tour, Tommy went to dinner with some friends Rita and Buddy Sheffield and Buddy’s brother David, who wrote all the skits for Eddie Murphy when he was on Saturday Night Live. Buddy and David had written a Broadway show called Cleavage and wanted Tommy to be a part of it. Tommy left his band and started rehearsals in New York. The show traveled to a few cities before finally opening on Broadway. Unfortunately, it only played for short time, but Tommy remained in the Big Apple for one more year working as a singing waiter at a place called Something Different. In 1983, the lure of the Crescent City was too much and he returned home. For the next two years, he actually sold cars at Lesson Chevrolet on the Westbank, but performing was in his blood, so he went back on the road with a new band. After finding that band not the ideal fit for him, Tommy moved back to Hattiesburg to deal with family matters. While there, he opened up a supper club called the Ritz Café and Showclub with his brothers Michael and Paul. Many readers may know Michael as the owner of the Corner Pocket and Paul is an award winning pro bass fisherman who will actually be in New Orleans this February to compete in the Bass Masters Classic. The Ritz Café was a glamorous venue with four tiered seating, large dance floor and expansive stage for a ten piece band. The club was popular on weekends, but was hard to sustain during the week, so after a year it was closed. They took all the equipment out and invested in a new club in Hattiesburg, called Sharky’s Shuck and Jive. The club was a success, so it was decided to put one in New Orleans called Gator’s Shuck and Jive and from there clubs were opened in Baton Rouge, Atlanta, Tennessee, New York and Orange County, California. Tommy managed and booked all the entertainment for the clubs. It was then that he was approached by Johnny Chisholm and Doyle Jaeger to open a club on the Gulf Coast. After a few meetings, Johnny approached Tommy about a club he was opening in New Orleans. They were in the process of applying for a liquor license and wanted Tommy to come on as general manager. After some negotiations, Tommy did come on, but as part owner of Oz. On Mardi Gras 1993, Oz opened its doors, and the rest is history as they say. Actually that is just the start. Oz was not an instant success and it was very difficult their first year to prove themselves. But soon with Tommy’s and Johnny’s marketing savvy, the business started to grow and the weekends became busy. So Tommy started back from there and began adding shows during the week. And in 1994, the first drag performers hit the stage of Oz. This became a very expressive outlet for Tommy to spotlight his talent. He personally auditioned the performers and directed the group numbers. His performers are one of Tommy’s

June Bartender of the Month Blake Truss & Oz GM Tommy Elias (Photo by Devin Black) greatest achievements. He helped find and cultivate such amazing talents of TerylLynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Bianca Del Rio, Nikki Rich and Raquel Chavalier, which all performed in his show. Oz soon became the city’s top show and dance bar, mostly because of their global marketing and the fact they advertised, it seemed, in all the right places, even straight radio and of course Ambush Magazine. In 1996, two incredible things happened to Tommy both professionally and personally. He met the love of his life, and now, his partner in life, Carl Geleno, and that same year Johnny Chisholm and Oz decided to start one of their most inspiring philanthropic efforts in the city. AIDS had practically devastated the gay community in New Orleans, so when they saw and opportunity to help, they seized it. Halloween New Orleans which benefits Lazarus House was in need of a sponsor and since no other gay bar in the city had stepped up to the plate, Oz became that sponsor. To this day, Oz is proud to say that it is the only alcohol and bar sponsor of Halloween. I can’t tell you how many times I hear people complain that the gay bars in this city do not give back to the community. Here is a prime example that they do. Oz

spends thousands of dollars each year donating the liquor to this event which now brings people from around the world to our city. The bar even sponsored the event the year after Katrina. To date the event has raised over $4 million for Project Lazarus. Katrina did throw a minor wrench in Tommy’s world, when he briefly had to move to Austin, where he managed Oilcan Harry’s for one year. But he came back to Oz to help Glenn Fonte, who was the manager of the bar, get the bar back on its feet. Glenn also happened to be the second person Tommy hired when Oz first opened. Tommy, Glenn and staff have worked very hard over the last three years to build Oz back up to being one of the premier clubs in New Orleans. He would like to personally thank the gay community for all their support over the years. If there is one word to sum up Tommy Elias, it is entertainment. He is a consummate performer whether in his professional career at Oz, or his singing career, which this summer he recently brought back to the stage at Oz. So go by Oz and say hi to Tommy, where it is always showtime.

email/letters Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Announcements Dear FNBMG Friends and Supporters, Friday Night Before Mardi Gras is now accepting Extravaganza XII grant applications from HIV and AIDS charitable support organizations. Please pass the word along to all eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. As a result of FNBMG’s Extravaganza XI (Cirque du Sogay at the Tea Room) this past Mardi Gras season, FNBMG was able to award a total of $17,000 to the following HIV/AIDS related charities: AIDSLaw of

Louisiana, Belle Reve of New Orleans, Buzzy’s Boys and Girls, Forum for Equality Foundations, NO/AIDS Task Force, Project Lazarus. FNBMG also donated $500 to the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans as a result of its over-the-top volunteer assistance during Extravaganza XI at the Audubon Tea Room. The deadline for all 2011 grant applications is November 1, 2010. Interested organizations should visit the FNBMG web site to learn the specifics on how to apply for an FNBMG grant. That web site address is: www.FridayNightBeforeMardiGras.COM

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[continued on 32]

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snap paparazzi

Bartenders Spencer & Blake welcome Oktoberfest @ Good Friends Bar

Billy does the honors @ Saints game buffet @ Double Play

Bartender Frank welcomes you to Saints games @ The Corner Pocket

Bartender of the Year Jeff serving up his own meat @ Lafitte’s Oktoberfest Charlie “Mildred” Bear & bartender Curt join Oktoberfest @ Rawhide

Ramon gives free procto exams during Saints game @ Double Play The cute boys come out for the Saints game @ 700 Club

Accordionist Renee plays Lafitte’s Oktoberfest Bartender RJ welcomes you to Oktoberfest @ Rawhide

The “Chicken Man” meets giant "St. Pauli Girl” (Tutu Sugar Rich) @ Good Friends Bar

Amon-Ra's Kenny & Jerry take in Oktoberfest @ Good Friends Bar

Pete samples the Saints game buffet @ Double Play

Golden Lantern bartender Josh joins La Mina Sterling’s Poncho & Aaron @ Good Friends Oktoberfest Glenn & Double Play bartender Will pop in for Corner Pocket’s Saints game blowout

Bartender TJ welcomes Saints fans to Double Play

Kitty in Halloween mode with bar baron Michael @ Corner Pocket Saints game

French Quarter Suites’ Blake & Velda take in the Saints game @ 700 Club

Manager Lance & bartender Josh show off bartender Jimmie’s b-day surprise @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Nurse Diana gives “Tittie-Baby” Jo her “Flu Dat” shot complements of St. Anna’s @ JohnPaul’s

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Oktoberfest, Saints Game, Birthdays, Flu Dat ~ New Orleans

Bartenders Shawna & Aletha welcome Oktoberfest @ Lafitte’s

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

New Orleans Restaurant Guide 3-Layer Carrot Cake @ Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon St. (ad page 31) “Tumblin’ Dice” Seared Tuna & Watermelon, center cut yellowfin tuna, seared with fennel pollen, cubed with local watermelon, tossed with 7 spice togarishi, avocado oil & 9th Ward sprouts @ The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley (ad page 33) New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. (ad page 32)

Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place (ad page 33)

Glazed 10 oz. Pork Chop with Steen's Cane Syrup & Creole Mustard served with duck fat potatoes & green beans @ The Country Club, 634 Louisa St. (ad page 11)

Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St. (ad page 9)

Red Velvet Cupcakes @ Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St. (ad page 33)

700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St., 561.1095, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM, is serving sliders, paninis, quesadillas, and more at the popular club in the French Quarter. Restaurant hours are 7pm til Wed.-Sun. with extended Decadence hours. Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445, is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials serving lunch and dinner. Now under the direction of Executive Chef David Duvall, the restaurant is open 11am-10pm Mon.Tues., Thurs.-Fri.; 9am-10pm Sat.-Sun. with brunch 9am-3pm, closed Wed. MasterCard/ Visa accepted. Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965, CafeAmelie.COM, offers romantic courtyard or indoor dining along with both eclectic culinary creations and cocktails. Open Wed.Sat. with lunch 11am-3pm, dinner 6-9pm, Sun. brunch 11-3. Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon, 504.52.CANDY, is a new upscale dessert & specialty food store, open 7 days & weekends 24 hours. Best in desserts, snacks, cheeses, crackers, candies, NY bagels & knishes, po-boys, wraps & sandwiches. PLUS PLUS PLUS many organic, all natural & gluten free items, also DOG TREATS. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM, 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. Cooyon’s Cajun Cooking! 1100 N. Peters St., 337.339.1131, CooyonsCajunCooking.COM. C’est Bon! This new open air restaurant in the Historic French Market is the perfect place to enjoy some of the best Cajun cooking. Come get “U” some! Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 945.0742, TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. 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. Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts, CreoleCuisine.COM. Creole Cuisine offers fresh seafood to New Orleans specialties, Cajun classics and breakfast delights in its numerous restaurants in the French Quarter including Chartres House Cafe, 601 Chartres St., 586.8383; La Bayou Restaurant, 208 Bourbon St., 525.4755; The Original Pierre Masperos, 440 Chartres St., 524.8990; Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601; Cajun Cabin, 503 Bourbon St., 529.4256; Cafe Fleur de Lis (breakfast eatery), 307 Chartres St., 529.9641; Pier 424 Seafood Market Restaurant, 424 Bourbon St., 309.1574; and Primo's New Orleans Cuisine, 541 Decatur St., 267.0608. The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley, 301.3347, GreenGoddessNOLA.COM, opened in May 2009 with a progressive menu that blends New Orleans sensibilities with a globetrotting sampling of ingredients, all emanating from the small open kitchen where chefs Chris DeBarr and Paul Artigues make it happen.

Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030. Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops for fast food with tasty burgers, hot dogs and breakfast. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place, 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM, is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers. Open 7 days from 11am-10pm. Little Vic's Gelateria, 1912 Magazine St., 309.8236, is a gay owned and operated family labor of love in the works since owner Vic Caracci learned at age 11 to make real Italian gelato from his family, three generations of Sicilian-Americans who first immigrated to New Orleans's French Quarter in 1911. Pulling from almost a century of family experience in the food industry, Vic, 23, enlisted the help of his uncle from Messina, Sicily to train he and his cousins in the detailed and fine art of gelato making. Little Vic serves over 40 inventive flavors of gelato, including stracciatella, amaretto, bacio de gama, and limoncello, as well as fresh-made panino, pastries, and Lavazza espresso. Open 11am-10:30pm 7 days. Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St., 586.8883, MaximosGrill.COM, 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. Moms Mini Mart, 902 Poydras, 596.2223, is a quick stop in the CBD for hot dogs, nachos, snow balls, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, Icees and groceries. Open Mon.-Fri. 6am7pm, Sat. 7am-7pm, open later & Sundays during special events. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days.

Occo Buco, braised veal shank in a garlic, thyme and white wine demi with asparagus & potatoes @ Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St. (ad page 33)

Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St. (ad page 32)

Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET, voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year, is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night menu, the deli offers free delivery. Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St., 872.0360, offers Fair Trade gourmet coffees, teas, cupcakes, scones, coffee by the pound, gift baskets, art & merchandise by local artists, stamps & mail box rentals, along with outdoor seating & Wi-Fi. Open 7am-10pm daily.

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the pink pastor

All Hallow's Eve

he day before the Feast of All Hallows, or All Saints is wrapped in traditions older than our society and its holidays. The deathly reference in the Christian calendar is actually two days later on All Souls day, when we commemorate the departed and in the Anglican and Catholic traditions, we pray for the dead. Halloween probably arose from a hybrid of the Christian commemoration of those who have gone before - the souls and the saints, and the pre-Roman British and Irish pagan festival of Samhain. Samhain was a cycle of several days to mark the turning of the year – it literally means ‘summer’s end’ and was to celebrate the harvest and recognize that the ‘light’ half of the year was over, and the ‘dark’ half was beginning. Costumes and masks were a big part of the festival, and it was believed that the veil between the living and the dead became thin during this season, and to copy and placate the spirits, people dressed as they imagined them, and put out turnip lanterns called Samhnag. People and livestock would walk between bonfires as a cleansing ritual, and the bones of slaughtered livestock would be burned. This fire lighting continues in the U.K. to this day, a few days later on November 5th as ‘bonfire’ or Guy Fawks night when Guy Fawks is burned in effigy and fireworks are let off all over the country. Guy Fawks was a Roman Catholic who tried to blow up Parliament in 1605, he was caught, confessed and was due to be hung, drawn and quartered but jumped from the scaffold breaking his neck, thus avoiding this horrible fate. Festivals like Halloween are common throughout the world, from the Day of the Dead in Spanish speaking countries, to the ancient Roman Lemuria, to the Chinese Quingming Festival they are all rooted in ancestor worship. We have more in common with those ancient people that came before us than we know – we communicate with the world around us in many different ways, sometimes speech is the least of those ways. We have feelings, dreams, emotions, thoughts and fears that are difficult to describe; faith itself defies truthful description, and God is beyond our grasp on an intellectual level. Despite our societies apparent sophistication (well, bits of it!), we leap back into the realms of ‘hocus pocus’ and ‘mumbo jumbo’ at the first opportunity. ‘Mumbo Jumbo’ feeds the human soul when it is honest and grows naturally from the communities that practice it, but let us never think it is a rational or intellectual function, it is not. It is from somewhere deep within us and echoes through the millennia like sighing. My parents and grandparents were (and are) Spiritualists - a group of religious denominations that maintains that we are able to communicate with our dead, that the veil is indeed thin, and through séances and mediums it can be pierced. Such beliefs have been common to most societies throughout most of recorded history, and they fade very slowly if at all. I believe passionately that we know

too little to dismiss something so universal in our common history. We seem to need ritual and mystery in a way that defies easy explanation. Although we laugh at it, we are moved and inspired by tales of ghosts in exactly the same way that the Romans listened to stories of Lemures, and during the festival of lemuralia the head of the household scattered (or burned) black beans to keep these malignant spirits at bay. We give offerings to those representing spirits on Halloween in the form of candy, not a million miles from the food offerings given to the ‘spirits’ during Samhain. We are undivided; the shamans of our ancestors still live in our priests, pastors, priestesses and prophets. Our solemn masses echo the processions up the hill to Stonehenge some four thousand years ago. We have changed less than we imagine, and we are still haunted by our ancestral ghosts.

email/letters ...from 26 and interested parties should review the details located at the “Charities” button. Much more information concerning Extravaganza XII (Mardi Gras Gaga) on March 4, 2011 will be coming soon. Please stay tuned and please mark your calendars now.. As always, thank you for your continuing loyal support. — Ed Potratz Chapman, FNBMG co-founder and Vice President

Ambush Now Seeking New

Baton Rouge Rep Duties: Column Photos Ad Sales Delivery Contact Rip Naquin

504.522.8049 or email marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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

bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 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 Baton Rouge, LA [225] CAJUN COVE, 4550 Concord Ave., 246.8317 GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, GeorgesPlaceBR.COM

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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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 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

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 TONIC, 2013 Pinhook Rd., 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, BourbonPub.COM 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

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computers Baton Rouge, LA [225] JDiT NETWORKING SOLUTIONS, Jerry Durden, 229.6108, JDiT.US

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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 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur, 565.5555, salondmalta.com

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] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, E-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queensize beds, private entrances; located only six blocks from Bourbon Street and walking distance to most New Orleans attractions. Several favorite bars are within one block. 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,

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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. HOTEL LE MARAIS, 717 Conti St., New Orleans, LA, 800.535.9111 or visit NewOrleansHotelCollection.COM, is the newest boutique hotel property in the French Quarter. This sleek, contemporary hotel offers high level service, a “happening” bar, delightful amenities and an inclusive concept that avoids a “nickel and dime” mentality. It features heated saltwater courtyard pool, complimentary daily newspaper, complimentary Wi Fi in all areas and all rooms, complimentary extended continental breakfast, complimentary fitness center, complimentary business center, and complimentary welcome drink. 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 cottages. 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

marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com

massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & thai massage/bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is26/10]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

models/escort New Orleans, LA [504] BODY RUBS & ESCORT: Mikey 504.756.9443, Charlie 504.430.7413, 4 hands availalable, 24/7, in/out/hotels, pics at www.men4rentnow.com. Search by ID# 190508 [is2210]

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

Gay East erParade.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov. 8, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org 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 NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION: 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] RAMSEY PLUMBING, repairs, repipe, sewer & drain cleaning, water heaters, disposals, 296.6865

real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] FRENCH QUARTER REALTY, Agents: Gary R. Williams 251.2047, Sandy Preston 319.7500; Office 949.5400 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 WWW.GAYREALESTATE.COM Free Instant Access to New Orleans and the Nations Top Gay & Lesbian Realtors. On-line: www.GayRealEstate.com or Toll Free 1.888.420.MOVE (6683)

restaurants

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 Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon, 504.52.CANDY Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Cooyon's Cajun Cooking, New Orleans French Market, 1100 N. Peters St., 337.339.1131, CooyonsCajunCooking.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts, CreoleCuisine.COM The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley, 301.3347, GreenGoddessNOLA.COM Krystal, 116 Bourbon @ Canal, 523.4030 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Little Vic's Gelateria, 1912 Magazine St., 309.8236 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St., 586.8883, MaximosGrill.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St., 872.0360

retail/shopping Metairie, LA [504] SUZETTE'S, 3209 Edenborn Ave., 888.7722, Suzettes.COM 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 [French Quarter], 525.4372; 4901 Canal St. [Mid City], 488.4889, 712 Adams St. [Uptown], 861.4644, 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 RAZZLE DAZZLE, the newest sensation in a very old place, 524 Royal St. 568.0001, RazzleDazzle.COM Slidell, LA [985] THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 1331 Englewood Dr., 643.8007, HerbImport.COM

spas New Orleans, LA [504] SPA ATLANTIS, 740 Gravier Street, 566.8088, SpaAlantis.NET 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] MORTUARY HAUNTED HOUSE, ghost haunting/tours, private parties, haunted attraction, 4800 Canal St., TheMortuary.NET 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

New Orleans, LA [504]

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov 26-Nov.. 8, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

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acadiana happens by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com Twitter: JoeyC_583

s nature seems to slip into hibernation, more and more leaves fall onto the earth. More and more activities seem to usher into the area only to give proof that at no point will we rest. Halloween is here and before you know it the holidays will be on our doorsteps. Here’s your guide to getting the party started. You’re listening up with Joey Collins.

Bar Spill

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he spirit of fall has been alive and the night life has been pumping. If you have yet to be a part of it then I can’t hesitate to ask, “Where the eff have you been?” From Kira’s Tuesday night Talent Shows at Tonic to Jules Karaoke Nights on Thursdays, there is always something heating up the night life. Just because winter is around the corner doesn’t mean that one must go into hibernation. There is just too much in store for you to sit at home. On Saturday, October 30th, Tonic will be hosting a Halloween party with a costume contest. Other upcoming events will be on November 6th when Lafayette rolls out the red carpet, so to speak, for Mr. and Miss National Apollo 2011 held at Tonic. Doors open at 7:30pm and contest starts at 10pm. For more information you can visit KreweOfApollo.COM. Don’t forget about Tonic’s weekly lineup. Monday is happy hour all night, Tuesday is Kira’s Talent Show, Wednesday is Karaoke, Thursday is Drink ‘n Drown, Friday and Saturday night feature drink specials, and Sunday ushers in Sunday Funday with $2 mimosas and Bingo at 7pm and Drag Show at 10pm. Jules Downtown will also be hosting its annual Halloween Party this year with the “Monster Ball” theme. Costume prizes will be awarded. Keep in mind that Jules will also be hosting their annual Moulin Rouge party coming this November. As always, Jules hosts karaoke night every Thursday. On Friday rotates between the singing sensation, Connie G, and Valerie Sugarbaker’s Drag Show. On Saturday night Jules rocks with dance, dance, dance!

Tourist in Your own State

hink of a random Saturday morning where you were bored. Cut to a few of your close friend lounging around your living room and trying to figure out what to do. You’re in the mood for something different, something unique. What do

you do? Believe it or not, there are so many other things to do that don’t involve drinking. What, did I just write that? We always hear about the amazing travel destinations and tourist locations in Louisiana and wonder what they are about. Most of us only took field trips to many of them when we were only in grade school and didn’t even bother to take note of the uniqueness of our state. Recently a group of us decided to dedicate at least one Saturday a month to traveling to the tourist destinations that represent Louisiana’s great past and culture. First on the list was The Shadows on the Teche in New Iberia. This antebellum plantation, at its apex, covered 3,000 acres of Acadiana land. The most interesting aspect of this plantation is how well it is preserved. Everything from original furniture, clothing, pictures, paintings, documents, and invoices have been kept from day one of the plantations beginnings. This rarity gives historians so much careful information that allows one to experience true plantation life. For more information you can visit ShadowsOnTheTeche.worldpress.COM. Second on the recent list was the mystery tour of The Myrtles plantation in St. Francisville. This historical haunted plantation is famous for being dubbed “The Most Haunted House” in the U.S. Frequently featured on such TV networks as History Channel, Travel Channel, and such, this plantation will definitely give you a fright. If you dare, you are allowed to spend the night. Guests are warned from the beginning about what horror they may experience. Skeptic of not, it’s still an interesting window to the gruesome Southern past. Just ask a fellow friend of mine who was skeptic and decided to join us for the trip. He still trembles when he thinks of how wherever he went in the house, somebody, and something was breathing down the back of his neck. For more information you can visit MyrtlesPlantation.COM.

Closing Out

’m personally excited about the holiday season being right around the corner. As I was recently driving through Broussard, Louisiana, I saw a sign which read, “10 more weeks till Christmas.” It put time into retrospect because I couldn’t believe that the end of the year is already near. With so much in store for the next 10 weeks I’ve made it a point to live each event and experience to the fullest and make these final weeks count. As always, keep the party going!

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acadiana

papar azzi

Miss Delanie Valentine ready for Miss Gay America

Jason & Corey @ Tonic

Ky, Wendy & Maria behaving badly @ Jules

Miss Mess decides to take the time to share his nipple

Delanie Valentine performing @ Tonic John partying @ Jules

Darren is ready for a night downtown

Resident DJ Kyle D @ Tonic

Tayler, Matt & Greg @ Jules Jeffery enjoying the drag show @ Tonic

Steven @ Jules shows off his Boudin Cook-off shirt

Macky & Brodie are here to serve you @ Tonic

What’s going on here?

The boys @ Jules are a riot!

Miss Kira @ one of her fabulous Tonic Talent Nights

Justin made it!

Amazing drag night @ Jules

Chica LaRouge, Kasi & Delanie Valentine @ Tonic

40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov 26-Nov.. 8, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

Fabulous, Bad, Riot, Share ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins

Joey, Hunter, Rick & Tayler, guess which one is sober!

Eddie, Kalem & Brian @ Tonic

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trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Ceremonies in Dark Old Men at the Anthony Bean Community Theater

eremonies in Dark Old Men is set in a Harlem long before a former U.S. President established his office there. In fact, if anyone would tell the characters of Lonne Elder III’s landmark play that such a thing would happen about 40 years hence, they’d probably look at you like you were crazy. The Harlem of Ceremonies is a hardscrabble one punctuated by grand broken dreams and petty crime. The Parker men, father Russell and sons Theopolis & Bobby, had been supported by the family’s matriarch until her recent passing after a lifetime of unstinting drudge work. Now daughter Adele has moved back and,

Damany S. Cormier as Theo & Samantha Beaulieu as Adele in Ceremonies in Dark Old Men martyr-like, has taken up the slack with a dead end office job. Russell nominally presides over a barbershop but spends more time playing checkers with his friend Mr. Jenkins than cutting hair. Theopolis, who annually changes his career aspirations, and Bobby, a low key burglar, hang out until Theo’s home-distilled whiskey catches the eye of Blue Haven, a notorious neighborhood gangster, who seduces the Parkers with an offer of easy riches if they’ll set up a bootleg and numbers operation in their shop. Anthony Bean’s production started a little slowly (the fault as much of the script itself) but once it got going, it packed a wallop by the end. Harold X. Evans’ Russell was a decent man up against the system; I believed him when he said he had gone through five job interviews and came up empty handed. But Evans also made him a bit foolish, a man who endlessly (but quite wonderfully in Evans’ telling) recounts tales from his earlier life as, at the same time, he self-deludingly thinks he’s still a ladies’ man. As Russell partakes of his

liquor, Evans conveyed brilliantly the qualities of a tipsy drunk and built up to a devastating monolog in the heartbreaking final scene. Damany S. Cormier brought natural swagger to Theopolis; this was a young man who, like Walter Lee Younger in A Raisin in the Sun, has lofty dreams, but here they end in tragedy. Having set the events in motion, Cormier made clear that Theo had no idea that an illegal enterprise requires just as much hard work as a legal one. Samantha Beaulieu followed up her forceful performance in The Madwoman of Chaillot with an equally forceful one, but unlike her corrupt President, her Adele was a naturally decent woman frustrated by family members who don’t pull their weight. After the money started coming in, her transformation into an attractively dressed and coiffed woman was cheering which made her ultimate undoing all the more saddening. Anthony Bean cut a dashing figure as Blue, making him a doubletalker with underlying menace. Bean’s performance was all the more powerful for being understated. Darryl Lutcher was fine in the underdrawn role of Bobby. In smaller parts, Alfred Aubrey and Leah Rouege’ were both good. John Grimsley’s barbershop set had an authentic feel to it with framed photos of Duke Ellington, Moms Mabley and Mohammed Ali lining the walls. Of course nowadays, there’d likely be a photo of our current president to inspire the Parker sons to do the right thing.

make-up, and saying the lines. Oh well, the scripts still held up, the jokes were funny as ever, and we should just count our blessings that we get to enjoy those wonderful thespians Varla, Brian, Bob & Dorian on a regular basis. Clove Productions’ Bedroom Suite offered a novel idea—4 one-acts by different playwrights, all set in a bedroom. Two, though, would’ve been enough. In Jean Cocteau’s The Human Voice, Jane Catalanello McNulty proved once again what an accomplished actress she is but director Meredith Mullins could’ve elicited a wider emotional coloring in this monolog about a woman who desperately wants to connect with another person. Still, it was an effective portrait of an obsessive romantic. Lucille Fletcher’s Sorry Wrong Number is an oldie but goodie about a woman who slowly realizes, as she tries to contact the police, that the murder she overheard being plotted, is hers. Though too young for the role, Raphaelle O’Neil, as the imperious protagonist, let desperation overtake her in just the right increments, and under Hannah S. Trostle’s subtle direction, built up a real sense of tension. Just for the record, the other two playlets were Tennessee Williams’ Talk to Me Like the Rain and Let Me Listen and Jenny Magnus’ The Strange. It’s hard to believe that the amateurish score of Curtains was written by the same people who gave us Cabaret and Chicago. Of course, who knows how it would’ve turned out if lyricist Fred Ebb had not passed away before its debut but still... In any case, under Patrick M. Mendelson’s direction, Rivertown Rep gave Curtains a better production than it prob-

ably deserved. Michael P. Sullivan was jolly fun as the dandyish British director of the murder-plagued musical-within-themusical. As the show’s producer, Tracey E. Collins’ tough exterior hid a warm maternal heart. And Lucas Harms made for a dashing Broadway-besotted detective. Jaune Buisson Hebert created some really fine choreography that was excellently done, in particular by Carrie Black (lotsa fun as a dumb blonde) and Jesse Alan Forcha, and brought the show to life in such numbers as Show People, Thataway and It’s a Business. Kudos too to Christopher Ward/Eric Porter’s set, Kate Jensen/Rebecca Marcus’ costumes and the musical direction of Alan Payne. Toni Press-Coffman’s Touch offered a certain charm as a nerdy astronomer gets the girl and they actually stay together. Well, at least until she’s raped and murdered. But too much “telling” and not enough “showing” by the playwright made this sad tale not as emotionally involving as it could and should be. The women came off better in this inaugural effort by Jonathan Mares Productions. Recently graduated from Loyola, Rebecca Elizabeth Hollingsworth continues to create memorable characters exhibiting intelligence, strength and wounded pride as the sister of the dead woman. Britain Valenti was sharp and sexy as a prostitute the widower turns to for comfort.(Don’t ask) For some reason, I just didn’t buy Mares as an astronomer. Maybe he doesn’t seem like a “science guy.” Or he’s not geeky enough. But, despite that, he invested the role with an abundance of passion and I wish him well in his new enterprise.

Short Takes

nspired by the upcoming Halloween, I’m gonna stick to some recent treats around town though I may have to mention a few, ahem, tricks. Our local drag queens showed up some visiting from San Francisco in the Running With Scissors production of two episodes of The Golden Girls. Varla Jean Merman was a just-right Blanche, sassily Southern without overdoing it. Brian Peterson captured Rose’s innocent charm. As Dorothy’s lesbian friend, Bob Edes Jr. brought down the house just by entering with a Martina Navratilova-ish swagger. And Dorian Rush (let’s make her an honorary drag queen) was dry as a martini and very, very good as a snooty new friend of Dorothy’s. Someone, however, should’ve told Cookie Dough (Sophia) and especially Heklina (Dorothy) that acting is more than just putting on a dress, a wig & some

42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov 26-Nov.. 8, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

snap paparazzi

MC Darwin Singleton from Mobile & Lords Captain Gary Vandeventer

Contestant Marcus Molden

Lord King XXVII Alan Kelley & Amon-Ra Captain Barry Rutherford

Lords of Leather’s Mr. Louisiana Leather 2011 Contest @ Oz ~ New Orleans

Lance, Boy Kevin, Mark & Lord Consort XXVI Bruce Orgeron

Contestant Jose Gonzalez

John East takes 2nd Runner-up from Lords President Michael Albracht

Crescent City Outlaws’ Mina Hernandez & some of her friends Lords' Ken & George with Oz’s Glenn, Jonathan & Kerry

Lords Captain Gary Vandeventer presents 1st Runner-up Jose Gonzalez Contestant Sam Daniel from Pensacola

Lord Pat & past Miss Louisiana Leatherette Kevin Donahugh aka Cathy Fox

Oz DJ Tim Pflueger Troy Powell wins Mr. Louisiana Leather 2011 Lord Consort & Lord King XXV Doug Minich & Michael Ducote flank Danny Calhoun

Contestant John East

Contestant Troy Powell

Mr. Louisiana Leather Troy Powell & Miss Louisiana Leatherette Bubbles Champagne

The Midtown Pub bar barons Darrel Foret & James Weaver in from Mobile

Miss Louisiana Leatherette Bubbles Champagne

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The Club Scene ~ New Orleans

Michael, Paul & Ryan take in Happy Hour @ Bourbon Pub

Drew, bartender Allen & David @ Oz

Gizelle Bouvier & Delta Louise Carter join Starr Daniels for her 40th b-day @ Starlight

King & Queen Petronius L-Elect Jimmie DeBlanc & Bootsie DeVille

Former King & Queen Petronius Craig Schexnayder & Freddie Guess

”The Wall of Drag” Miss Gay Pride Tami Tarmac

Satyricon Captain & Amon-Ra Turnabout Queen Antoinette Ella Chardonnay

Colston, Tony & Brian @ Tony’s bday blowout @ JohnPaul’s

Bourbon Pub bartenders Jim & Chris

Pride Grand Marshal Cathy Fox & Queen Petronius XLIX Natasha Sinclaire

Wilhemina, Jeff’s niece Alissa & Jeff @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Host Barry Bareass ready for Halloween @ The Corner Pocket

ambush

papar azzi

New Orleans Courtyard’s Blake & 700 Club’s Mike @ 700 Club

Amon-Ra Prom Queen Deja Deja Vu

Happy Hour (5-7pm) Weekend dancer Jay @ The Corner Pocket

Queen Petronius XLIX Natasha Sinclaire Queen Amon-Ra XLV Countess C. Alice as Lady Gaga

King Cake Queen XIV Princesse Stephaney

King Cake Queen XVI Tami Tarmac

44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov 26-Nov.. 8, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

Krewe of Petronius’ Dragging For Feathers @ JohnPaul’s ~ New Orleans

John & Patrick direct from Club New Orleans cocktailin’ @ Bourbon Pub

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Rodney pops in for a visit with Marty @ The Friendly Bar

Everyone is a winner @ Gaymazing Race

Michael, Bootsie & Tami stirring it up @ Petronius’ “Cooking with The Queens”

Marcy Marcell headlines the Starlight Revue Fridays

Cutter’s bar baron Mac & Starlight bar baron Javier cocktailin’ @ Cutter’s

Hot boys join Satyricon’s Hoe Down @ New Orleans Old Dance Hall

Winning team of Gaymazing Race

ambush

papar azzi

Eva “The Diva” Las Vegas makes appearance in Starlight Revue 2nd place team of Gaymazing Race

Jerry @ New Orleans Old Dance Hall for Satyricon’s Hoe Down

Bartender Adam serving cocktails @ Bourbon Pub

Stephen, Cody & Gina take in the Saints game @ 700 Club

Bourbon Pub’s Julien, 4 Seasons’ Frankie, Bourbon Pub GM Louis & Ambush’s Devin @ Bourbon Pub & Parade

Hostess Bootsie DeVille does Petronius’ “Cooking with The Queens” @ New Orleans School of Cooking

Miss Gay Pride Tami & Brent join Petronius’ “Cooking with The Queens” @ New Orleans School of Cooking

3rd place team of Gaymazing Race Satyricon president Ted & Kent Roby serving it up @ Satyricon’s Hoe Down

Jean & Noel @ the CAN office for the NO/AIDS Task Force’s Gaymazing Race

Jeff & Tony were The Gulf Shore: Trashier than Jersey team in Gaymazing Race

46 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov 26-Nov.. 8, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

Some of the Best ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin Black, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen

Birthday Boy Corey with Paul, Steve & Mark @ Good Friends

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48 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Oc t . 26-Nov 26-Nov.. 8, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM