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

All Roads Lead to Oz Announcing the Winners of the 24th Gay Appreciation Awards July 23rd

ll roads lead to Oz, 800 Bourbon Street, for the 24th annual Gay Appreciation Awards (GAA) Gala on Saturday, July 23rd, 8-10pm, doors open at 7pm. In addition to honoring businessmen Chuck Turner and Bill Miller as recipients of the 24th Lifetime Achievement Award, the winners in 21 award categories selected by Ambush voters back in June will be announced. Turner and Miller are proprietors of 4 Seasons in Metairie, Billy's in Slidell, and Double Play in New Orleans. The couple, who recently celebrated their 40th anniversary, have been long time supporters of the GLBT community and through their clubs and efforts have helped raise over $150,000 for area charities including NO/AIDS Task Force, Gay Easter Parade and Food For Friends. The couple was selected for the highest honor bestowed at the annual awards presentation by the GAA Board of Directors. Past Lifetime AchieveChuck Turner & Bill Miller ment Award recipients include 24th Lifetime Achivement Award Jimmie Callaway, the late Dan Fountain [Betty Buttons], the late Andy Boudreaux, the late Buzzy Fanning, the late Dirty Dottie, the late Miss Fury, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, the late Dan Romero, the late Miss Do, the late Louise McFarland, Miss Dixie Fasnacht, Alice Brady and the late John Dodt, Gene Adams, the late Charlene Schneider, the late Steve Mettner, Marty Curtin and Koo Gaffney, the late Donald “Donnie Jay” James, Kitty Blackwell, Michael “Fish” Hickerson, the late Marcy Marcell, Mary L. Lathouwers, Don Evans, and Jean Redmann. Door admission is $10 per person. All $150 VIP Tables are sold out with special thanks to Chuck Turner and Bill Miller, Opal Masters and Darwin Reed, Toby Lefort and Al Hererra/Club LAX, Roy Smith and Nick Olivares, Gary Vandeventer, John Vignone and Paul Chiriaco/JohnPaul's, Elizabeth Bouvier and Tony Leggio, Pride Grand Marshal Misti Ates, Craig Nero/Who Dat Coffee Cafe, and Engender. All proceeds benefit the William Fanning Foundation (Buzzy’s Boys & Girls). Since 1997, the gala has raised $39,453 for charity. Entertainment for the GAA Gala will include production numbers from the Top 5 Finalists in the Show Bar of the Year category, as well as last year's Entertainer of the Year Elizabeth Bouvier. The exciting duo of Lisa Beaumann and Teryl-Lynn Fox will emcee the affair. This year the GAA Board changed the name of the Entertainment of the Year Award to the Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year Award in memory of the Founder of the GAA Marcy Marcell. Following Marcy Marcell's Grand Sendoff in

GAA Winners out Aug. 2nd/ONLY 3 issues til Decadence DEADLINE: Tues., July 26th

inside

celebrazzi under the gaydar gaa top 5 finalists snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/nola, metairie trodding the boards pensacola paparazzi ambush paparazzi/new orleans

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classifieds 28 acadiana paparazzi/lafayette 32 acadiana happens/lafayette 33 baton rouge paparazzi 34 a community within communities 34 southern decadence 35 obituary/jack swafford 37 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 38

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

May, funds raised minus expenses benefited three charities at the request of the family. The board will present checks totaling $3,644.94 including $728.98 to Akula Foundation (the hospice which cared for Marcy), $1,457.98 to Buzzy’s Boys & Girls, and $1,457.98 to Food For Friends in Marcy name. Top 5 Finalists in each award category include (only one will be the winner): • Circuit Party/Event of the Year Gay Easter Parade, Gay Easter Parade Purple Party, Halloween, Southern Decadence, White Party/Oz • Hair Salon of the Year - Beauty Lounge, Bobby Blue, Headquarters, Mickey Nolan's Salon, Salon D'Malta • Gay Mardi Gras Ball of the Year Krewe of Amon-Ra, Krewe of Armeinius, Krewe of Petronius, Lords of Leather, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon • Neighborhood Bar of the Year - 4 Seasons/Metairie, Kajun’s Pub, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, JohnPaul's, Tubby's Golden Lantern • Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award Darrin Ferris, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio, Chris Leonard, NO/AIDS Task Force • Bitch of the Year - Lady Hope, Tony Leggio, Opal Masters, Princesse Stephaney, Persana Shoulders • Show Bar of the Year - Bourbon Pub & Parade, Club LAX/Metairie, JohnPaul's, Oz, Tubby's Golden Lantern • Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award - Big Bell Productions/After Dark, La Familia Variety Drag Show, New Orleans Gay Men's Chorus, Running With Scissors, Silk Dress Productions’ Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf

• Restaurant/Deli/Coffee House of the Year - Clover Grill, Eat, Mona Lisa Restaurant, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli; Who Dat Coffee Cafe • Dance Club of the Year - Bourbon Pub & Parade, Club LAX, Corner Pocket, JohnPaul's, Oz, • Bartender of the Year - Bobby Fisher/JohnPaul’s, Chuck Hinkley/4 Seasons, Lance Pippin/Tubby's Golden Lantern, Jeff Palmquist/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Frankie Wingerter/Oz • DJ of the Year - E (Eddie Mitchell)/ Club LAX, Myke Kolb/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Tim Pflueger/Oz, Richie Rich/ JohnPaul's, Jeff Waguespack/Cafe

Lafitte in Exile • Leather Bar of the Year - Club LAX/Metairie, JohnPaul's, Phoenix, Rawhide 2010, Tonic/Lafayette • Cheridon Comedy Award - Zsa Zsa d’LaHor, Tony Leggio, Sister Mary Isahor, Princesse Stephaney, Persana Shoulders • Fly Fashion Glamour Award Starr Alexander, Elizabeth Bouvier, Dominique DeLorean, Raven Kennedy, Princesse Stephaney • GLBT Business of the Year Formal Connection/LaPlace, Krazy Katz, La Mina Sterling, Spa Atlantis, Rab Dab Clothing & Gifts • Leather Person of the Year Michael Albracht, Jose Gonzales, Toby [continued on 8]

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 AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Devin Black, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Jeff Palmquist, Steve Patrick, Patrick Shannon, Frankie Wingerter-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-Pensacola, FL 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. ©1982-2011, 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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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

outhern Decadence Grand Marshals (SDGMs) XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander unveil the "official" poster at the annual Southern Decadence Press Party hosted upstairs in the Parade above the Bourbon Pub this year in New Orleans. The colorful poster by renowned photographer Larry Graham of GrahamStudioOne.COM reflects the theme of Viva New Orleans: What Happens in New Orleans Stays in New Orleans. The grand marshals also announced the "official" song Fireworks by Katy Perry. This year's colors are fuchsia pink, black and silver, while the "official" charity is NO/AIDS Task Force. The evening started off with a by invitation only VIP reception with culinary delights by Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, followed by the Press Party open to the public. Rubio and Alexander lead the 40th anniversary of Southern Decadence culminating Labor Day Weekend with the 37th annual Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4th at 2pm followed by the 18th annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss. Visit SouthernDecadence.COM for additional info.

DGMs XXXIII Regina Adams, XXXVI Toby Lefort, XXXVII Misael Rubio & Tiffany Alexander, XXXVI Julien Artressia, XXXIV Marcus Martinez, XXX Mike Sheehan, XXXIII Lisa Beaumann & XXXV Paloma.

he entourage: front- Tami Tarmac; back- Pat McArdle, Brad Robert, TJ Conrad, SDGM XXXVII Misael Rubio, SDGM XXXVI Toby Lefort, SDGM XXXVII Tiffany Alexander, Venus Santiago, Craig Domiano & SDGM XXXVI Julien Artressia.

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the "official" dish ...from 4 Lefort, Troy Powell, Gary Vandeventer • Transgender of the Year - Regina Adams, Dee Cooley, Jasmine Essex, JoAnn Guidos, Rikki Redd • Lesbian of the Year - Misti Ates, Koo Gaffney, Gino New Orleans, Sandy Sachs, Sherran Thomas • Gay Man of the Year - Tommy Elias, Darrin Ferris, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio, Chuck Turner • Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year - Big Mama, Elizabeth Bouvier, Monique Michaels, Princesse Stephaney, Tittie Toulouse The Marsha Delain Award of Excellence, the Drag Ambassador Award, is presented by Marsha Naquin-Delain. Sponsored by Ambush, the awards thanks those in the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Community who are often not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the GLBT Community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today across the Gulf South. The GAA Board of Directors include Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, and Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. Visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA for info.

SDGM XXXVII Misael Rubio (Photo by Larry Graham) AIDS Task Force. The 2011 Southern Decadence Sponsors include Absolut, Ambush Mag, Bacardi, Bud Light, GrahamStudioOne.COM. Harrah's New Orleans, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, Sir Speedy Printing and SouthernDecadence.COM.

SDGMs 37 Misael Rubio & Tiffany Alexander Unveil Official Southern Decadence Poster

outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander unveiled the Official Southern Decadence Poster at the Bourbon Pub Parade during the annual Southern Decadence Press Party. Created by renowned photographer Larry Graham of GrahamStudioOne.COM, the colorful poster reflects the theme, Viva New Orleans: What Happens in New Orleans Stays in New Orleans. The grand marshals also announced the "official" song Fireworks by Katy Perry. The "official" colors are fuchsia pink, black and silver, while the "official" Southern Decadence Charity is NO/

SDGM XXXVII Tiffany Alexander (Photo by Larry Graham) The 40th anniversary of Southern Decadence is set for Wednesday, August 31st through Labor Day, Monday, September 5th. There will be a flurry of activities and events leading up to the 37th annual Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4th. As the parade winds through the streets of the French Quarter, you will get to see all the outrageous fun led by SDGMs XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander followed by the annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss at

Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street. SDGMs XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander have announced upcoming events including: Friday, July 22nd, 9pm, MetairieSlidell Bar Run beginning at Club LAX to Club Tribute and 4 Seasons in Metairie, to Billy's and Anything Geaux's in Slidell, ending back at Club LAX Friday, July 29th, 8-10pm, Viva New Orleans: A Pre-Southern Decadence Celebration with Southern Decadence Poster Signing & SDGM XXXVII Meet & Greet at Oz Saturday, July 30th, 9:30pm, 1st Southern Decadence Charity Benefit for NO/AIDS Task Force at JohnPaul's Friday, August 5th, 8pm, BywaterMarigny Bar Run beginning at Bywater Patio Bar to Country Club, Cutter's, Big Daddy's, Friendly Bar, Phoenix, Kajun's Pub ending at JohnPaul's Saturday, August 6th 10pm, 2nd Southern Decadence Charity Fundraiser for NO/AIDS Task Force at Club LAX Thursday, August 11th, 9pm, Southern Decadence Poster Signing with $10 proceeds benefiting NO/AIDS Task Force at 700 Club Saturday, August 20th, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Dinner, by invitation only For additional information, visit SouthernDecadence.COM.

Hidden Treasures of the Louisiana State Museum Exhibit July 20th

he Friends of the Cabildo will host an exclusive viewing of the special collections of the Louisiana State Museum at the collections facility housed at 1000 Chartres Street. On Wednesday, July 20th, from 5-7:30pm, guests will be guided through this remarkable assemblage of art, costumes, artifacts and more. Louisiana State Museum curators will be on hand to answer questions and discuss their respective collections on a docent-guided tour. A wine and cheese reception will follow. Tickets: $15 General Admission, $10 Friends of the Cabildo members Space is limited. Reservations are required. For more information on this event and how to become a Friends of the Cabildo member, please contact Rebecca Duckert at 504.523.3939 or rebecca@friendsofthecabildo.org. All proceeds are raised in support of the Louisiana State Museum and its collections, exhibits and programs. Friends of the Cabildo is a private, non-profit volunteer group that provides financial and volunteer support [continued on 10]

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the "official" dish ...from 8 for the Louisiana State Museum, its projects and its property. Since incorporating in 1956, the Friends of the Cabildo has grown into a large statewide membership organization, a dynamic and motivating force in broadening and supporting the aims of the Louisiana State Museum.

1st Shows Set at Michael's On The Park

ichael's On The Park, 834 N. Rampart, the newest gay bar in the French Quarter, will launch its first shows July 29th and 30th. Entertainment goers will be treated to Les Femelles Fatale on Friday, July 29th beginning at 10:30pm. Under the direction of Princesse Stephaney, the show loosely translated as "women dangerously seductive" will feature Rusty LaRoux and guests. On Saturday, July 30th at 10:30pm, its La Familia, a variety show hosted by none other than Pride Grand Marshal Johnny Passionn. Proprietor Mike Cookmeyer has several special nights at the club and is the only gay bar with a great patio in the entire French Quarter. Be sure and catch one of his fab cookouts!

Harrah's Presents Bill Bellemy July 30th

arrah’s New Orleans welcomes actor and stand-up comedian Bill Bellamy to Harrah’s Theatre, Saturday, July 30th at 8pm. Bellamy will entertain guests with his unique and humorous look at love and relationships when he brings his latest comedy tour, Ladies Night Out, to the Big Easy.

Bellamy first caught America’s attention on HBO’s Russell Simmons’ Def Comedy Jam, where he coined the now infamous phrase, “booty call.” He went on to host several MTV programs and star in a number of movies including How To Be A Player, Getting Played, Any Given Sunday and

Lottery Ticket. Currently, Bellamy is the executive producer and host of TV One’s Bill Bellamy’s Who’s Got Jokes? Over the past decade, Bellamy has become an icon in the world of comedy, performing hundreds of shows to sold-out audiences. Tickets are now on sale and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1.800.745.3000. You must be 21 to enter the casino. For more information about Harrah’s New Orleans, visit www.harrahsneworleans.com.

19th Oh What A Drag Aug. 1st at Bourbon Pub Parade

he 19th annual Oh What A Drag: Burly-esque Burlesque is set for the Monday, August 1st, 9pm, at Bourbon Pub Parade, 801 Bourbon Street. This employee turnabout is one of the hottest tickets in town raising thousands of dollars for charity each year. According to the Bourbon Pub Parade, "Beginning with our unbeatable 4-9pm Happy Hour, come see your favorite bartenders and employees perform like you've never seen them before!" A portion of bar sales and bartenders' tips will benefit NO/ AIDS Task Force Food For Friends. Plus the club offers drink specials for everyone in DRAG!

Whitney White Linen Night Opens at the Ogden Aug. 6th

he Ogden Museum of Southern Art will unveil a group of exhibitions on Whitney White Linen Night Saturday, August 6th that showcase the range and diversity of Southern art, with a focus on Mississippi. There will also be live music by David Moore and other musicians, a cash bar, and the Museum store will be open, offering select discounts for its annual Summer Sale. Admission is free, and the Museum is open 6-9pm. Self-Taught, Outsider and Visionary Art from the Collection of Alexa Kleinbard and Jim Roche Together the husband and wife team of Jim Roche and Alexa Kleinbard have amassed one of the most important collections of self-taught, outsider, and visionary art in the United States. Their shared vision as collectors reflect their own sensibilities as working artists. Since the early 1970s, Kleinbard and Roche have pioneered the promotion, understanding, and appreciation of artists who work beyond the parameters of the art gallery and museum system. Many of the artists in their collection are not heavily represented in other places, resulting in a unique

and highly personal collection. This exhibition features the art of Jesse James Aaron, Columbus “Dude” McGriff, O.L. Samuels, Roger Rice, John Robert Ellis, and many more. On view through September 18, 2011. Spotlight on Mississippi From the Hill Country to the Gulf Coast, Mississippi has long been fertile ground for artistic endeavor. While known primarily for its contributions to music and literature, the visual arts have played an equally important role in shaping the cultural identity of this complicated state. This is the second in the Museum’s annual series of state-focused exhibitions. Spotlight on Mississippi draws heavily from the Ogden Museum’s permanent collection, and includes paintings, drawings, and sculpture by Mississippi artists, including—Theora Hamblett, Dusti Bongé, Archie Bongé, Bess Dawson, Halcyon Barnes, Ruth Holmes, Sultan Rogers, Pappy Kitchens, William Dunlap, Walter Anderson, William Hollingsworth, John McCrady, Tennessee Williams, Ed McGowin, Sam Gilliam and many more. On view through September 18, 2011. Mississippi Photographs, 1860s–Present A survey of Mississippi photography that spans more than 150 years. Images portray the cultural, social, political and environmental changes that have shaped and defined the state, emphasizing the deep ties that exist between the people of Mississippi and the land. The exhibition Includes photographs by: George Ballis, Lyle Bongé, Seth Boonchai, Maude Schuyler Clay, William Eggleston, Walker Evans, William Ferris, Roland Freeman, Matt Herron, Lewis Hine, Birney Imes, Jessica Ingram, William Henry Jackson, Franke Keating, Stuart Klipper, Jack Kotz, Clarence John Laughlin, Danny Lyon, Milly Moorehead West, David Rae Morris, Tom Rankin, Kathleen Robbins, Euphus Ruth, Jack Spencer, Mark Steinmetz, Gayle Stevens, Eudora Welty, Bruce West, Marion Post Wolcott and Terry Wood. On view through September 18, 2011. Birney Imes: Whispering Pines Whispering Pines is a photographic documentation of a single café and bar in the Mississippi prairie, portraying—through both black-and-white and color photographs–the slow decline of a storied establishment and its colorful proprietor and patrons from the mid-1970s until the café closed in the early 1990s. This is the final offering from the Ogden Museum’s series of three exhibitions of Mississippi photographer Birney Imes. The previous two were Partial to Home and Juke Joint. On view through mid-October 2011. Mississippi Mud: The Potters of Mississippi Presented by the Center for Southern Craft and Design

The pottery of Mississippi is as diverse as the state itself—whether from the coast, the Delta or points beyond—infusing the state’s potters a strong and rich legacy to build upon. The work in this exhibition may be purchased in the Center. On view through September 2011. A Technological Terrarium Presented by the Ogden Museum’s Kohlmeyer Circle Selections of analogical and digit logical ephemera: mechanical sculpture and electronica dada. Artists and hackers from New Orleans, Houma, and Austin present work that disturbs lines between the traditions of mechanics, technology and art. Most participants in this exhibition are also part of Automata, an annual exhibition of mechanical, kinetic, electronic, and biological sculpture. Artist list: Mark Anderson, Kevin Brown, Christopher Deris, Adam Farrington, Jesse Fontenot, Gumbo Labs, Samuel Joyce, Jayme Kalal, Kourtney Keller, Colin McIntyre, Lefty Parker, Bob Snead, David Sullivan and H. Cole Wiley. On view through September 12, 2011. Curated by Myrtle Von Damitz. Looking to Learn: New Orleans Center for Creative Arts An exhibition showcasing the photography, painting, sculpture, and mixed media pieces created by the visual arts students at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA). “Looking to Learn” is an art education series curated by the Ogden featuring artwork by students in area schools. Previous schools have included the Louise S. McGehee School, Holy Cross School and Jefferson Parish Public School System Talented Visual Arts Program. On view through September 2011.

Dr. Paige Schilt & Meghan Stabler to Keynote TG Summit

he 3 rd Annual Texas Transgender Nondiscrimination Summit, scheduled for August 12-13 at the University of Houston in Houston, Texas, is excited to announce its keynote speakers for this year: Dr. Paige Schilt and Ms. Meghan Stabler. Dr. Schilt will be the keynote speaker on Friday, August 12. A writer, activist, and educator, Dr. Schilt is a contributor to The Bilerico Project, where she writes about trans-family life. The former Director of National Communications at Soulforce, she teaches English, communications, gender studies, and recently served as Interim Assistant Dean of Student Multicultural Affairs at Southwestern University. Ms. Meghan Stabler will be the keynote speaker on Saturday, August [continued on 12]

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the "official" dish ...from 10 13. A nationally recognized spokesperson and political activist, Ms. Stabler has appeared globally on television, radio, and print media representing a number of industry, LGBT, and political issues.A past president of Pride Houston, an active leader on the Human Rights Campaign Board of Directors and AIDS Foundation, she is a senior director at CA Technologies. “These are two of our most outstanding leaders in the trans-community, and we are very excited that they have agreed to speak at our Summit,” said Josephine Tittsworth, chair of the Summit organizing committee. “This is just spectacular! Ms. Stabler and Dr. Schilt are some of our most dynamic community activist but they are also some of our most knowledgeable experts on the trans-community,” explained Lou Weaver, a member of the Summit organizing committee. The Summit committee in partnership with the Houston GLBT Community Center (501c3) and the Department of English at the University of Houston are proud to host this year’s Summit. Details about the Summit and registration information can be found www.houstonglbtcommunitycenter.org/ texastransgendernondiscriminationsummit.

13th Acclaim Awards Gala Sept. 24th

he 13th Annual Acclaim Awards Gala will be held the evening of Saturday, September 24th at the beautiful JW Marriott Hotel in downtown New Orleans. The Acclaim Awards is the Forum For Equality’s annual fundraiser and our opportunity to applaud the work of those across the state for their contributions to the LGBT community. There are a few ways to get involved this year: 1.) Nominate! Nominate an individual or organization you know that has contributed to the LGBT community in one of these five areas: * Arts & Entertainment Previous Winners include: Sonny Borey, Ricky Graham, Becky Allen * Community Health Previous Winners include: Billy Henry, Dr. Louise McFarland, Sister Marcy Romine, Paris Winn, Vicki Weeks, Dr. Mit Seiler, Pamela Holm, Hosts of Halloween New Orleans, Dr. Troy Scroggins, Heidi Nagele Chapman, Dr. Michael Kaiser * Media Previous Winners include: Steven Forester, Michelle Miller, Nell Nolan, Angela Hill, David Tyree, David Bernard, John Deveney, Ambush Magazine, Leonard Pitts Jr., Ted Baldwin * Political Activism Previous Winners include: John Rawls, Randy Evans, Jan Harrell, Su-

san Clade, Louisiana Human Rights Campaign, Larry Best, Larry Bagneris, Charlene Schneider, Dr. Judy Harris & Regina Matthews, James Wiggins, Kelly Bryson * Political Leadership Previous Winners include: Troy Carter, Melinda Schwegmann, Lynn Dean, Marc Morial, Miriam Waltzer, Mayor Ray Nagin, Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson, Rep. Juan LaFonta, Michael G. Bagneris, Arthur Morrell, Cynthia Hedge-Morrell, J.P. Morrell Additional winners of the Chairs’ Award include Dixie Fasnacht, Eric Hess, Jim Wiltberger, Jody Gates, Jack Sullivan, Beth Scalco, Jimmy Fahrenholtz, Noel Twilbeck, New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus, ACLU, Dr. Marc Behar — this is awarded by current Chairs of FFE Foundation and FFE Louisiana. In your nomination, please include your name and contact information along with a short paragraph highlighting the contributions that the individual or organization has made over the years. If you have any questions, please call the office at 504.569.9156. Please submit your nomination via email to sarahjane.brady@forumforequality.com no later than 5pm, Friday, July 22nd. 2.) Help Captain the Ship! Become a table captain and fill your table with your friends and family for an amazing night of fun and celebration! All you’ll have to do is find nine friends to join you at your table. Then join the Forum at the Patron Party as a special thank you for all your hard work! 3.) Volunteer! Whether it’s the night of the event or helping the Forum get ready, the Forum can always use a few extra hands! Use your talents and time to help make this the best event of the year. There are many ways to get involved! If you have any questions or want to sign-up, don’t hesitate to call 504.569.9156 or email sarahjane.brady@forumforequality.com.

New John Besh Soda Shop Opens at National WWII Museum

eviving an icon of America’s past, The National WWII Museum geared up for the grand opening of its latest attraction, a Soda Shop by award-winning Chef John Besh. The new dining venue opened just in time for National Ice Cream Day, July 17, designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. Besh brings his famed culinary expertise and creativity to the menu. Visitors will find fountain sodas in melon, pineapple, nectar and special seasonal versions, served in vintage 1-quart seltzer bottles; house-made ice creams and milkshakes in flavors as Bananas Foster, Sector Candy Bar Crunch, and Creole Cream Cheese Red Velvet; and an array of signature sandwiches,

homemade soups, sweet treats and breakfast items including a “build your own biscuit” option. The Soda Shop is located in The National WWII Museum at 945 Magazine Street at the corner of Andrew Higgins Drive and is open daily from 7am to 7pm. Reminiscent of the soda shops that were commonplace in the 1930s and 1940s, the new “hot” spot for cool treats will boast original spinning soda stools from New Orleans’ historic Krauss department store. The Soda Shop combines nostalgic design touches with contemporary architecture to create an inviting, evocative space. ”When guests enter the new Soda Shop at The National WWII Museum, we want them to be transported back in time,” said Besh, “back to the heyday of soda shops, when a stop there meant fellowship and festivity – perhaps welcoming a G.I. back home – and handmade ice cream creations and other treats.” The first soda fountain with counter service opened in 1903, and soon these new establishments became popular gathering spots across America. In the 1920s, they were hailed as a greater ally for the temperance movement than any sermon preached from the pulpit. By the 1930s and 40’s, soda shops were enjoyed by all ages and were especially popular among teenagers who came both for the treats and to play the jukebox. Sadly, soda shops gradually declined with the post-World War II migration from the cities, where early soda fountains and soda shops were concentrated, to the suburbs. ”One of our goals at The National WWII Museum is to engage visitors with an immersive experience that enables them to learn in a variety of ways,” said Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller, Museum president and CEO. “Whether they are speaking with one of our WWII veteran docents, enjoying 1940s musical entertainment in our Stage Door Canteen, watching our 4-D multi-sensory cinematic experience Beyond All Boundaries, or, now, having an oldtime ice cream soda after the show in a unique new soda shop, guests here will get the full, historical perspective.” Chef John Besh is also the creative force behind the American Sector, a casual dining restaurant that opened in the Museum in 2009. For more information, visit www.americansector.com. The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the War that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America’s National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and the Home Front.

For more information, call 877.813.3329 or 504.527.6012 or visit www.nationalww2museum.org.

Win a Trip to Dallas Pride in September

his September, the Dallas lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community will celebrate gay Pride with a weekend of activities leading up to the 28th annual Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade. To commemorate, the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau (Dallas CVB) is giving away a vacation package for two to visit Dallas during Pride weekend, September 16 - 19, 2011. For official rules and a chance to enter, visit www.glbtdallas.com. “Dallas is a diverse, progressive destination with much to see and do for lesbian and gay travelers,” said Phillip Jones, president and CEO of the Dallas CVB. “Visitors in September have the opportunity to participate in our city’s Pride festivities, and it’s also a great time of year to experience Dallas’ world class arts, shopping, dining and entertainment options.” The winner of the sweepstakes will receive round trip airfare to Dallas provided by American Airlines, corporate sponsor of the Dallas CVB; accommodations by the luxurious W Dallas – Victory, which includes a dinner for two at Craft Dallas; passes to Gay Day at Six Flags Over Texas, compliments of Dallas Voice; and VIP passes to Gaybingo Dallas, compliments of Resource Center Dallas. Dallas Pride weekend offers several events that showcase the city’s friendly and diverse LGBT community. The highlight of the weekend is the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade. Now in its 28th year, the parade is expected to include nearly 2,000 marching participants and draw more than 40,000 spectators from across the nation and around the world. Organized by the Dallas Tavern Guild, this year’s Dallas Pride theme is “It only gets better”. The Pride Festival will immediately follow at the conclusion of the parade. For more information and a schedule of events, please visit www.dallasprideparade.com. Entries for the sweepstakes will be accepted online through noon on August 12, 2011, and a winner will be announced shortly thereafter. The sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the U.S. at least 21 years of age or older at the time of entry. For official rules and to enter, please visit www.glbtdallas.com.

Ambush Ad Deadline July 26th

504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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

It Is An Honor Just To be Nominated!

he Gay Appreciation Awards are once again upon us. This is when five people, events or businesses in certain categories are selected by a majority vote of the community to receive Ambush magazine’s wonderful award. I just want to take a moment to thank all those for voting for me in a few categories; it is always fun to loose multiple times instead just once. Just kidding, a huge amount of gratitude should be bestowed on Rip and Marsha for taking up this event which was originally started by the late Marcy Marcell. It is a lovely tribute to the legacy of this great performer when they changed the title of one of the most coveted categories to the Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year. Congratulations to Chuck Turner and Bill Miller for the 24th Annual Lifetime Achievement Award, no two men deserve it more. It is so good to see so many new names in all the categories which mean that more people are getting involved in our community. A special thank you should also go out to the GAA Board (Rip, Marsha, Lisa Beaumann and Teryl-Lynn Foxx) for staging this much anticipated event. So good luck to all the nominees, you are already all winners. See y'all at Oz Saturday, July 23rd, 8pm.

New Awards Ceremony To Spin off of the GAA’s

nce there is a popular idea, someone always has to copy it. First there was the Oscars, then the Golden Globes came about; American Idol, then The Voice; Dancing with the Stars, then So You Think You Can Dance, the list goes on and on. Yes, there are some slight changes, but the latter always follows the same format primarily. Well, rumor has it that two very well-known personalities in the city are starting the GDA’s, the Gay Depreciation Awards. I do not know how this will fly. I got a listing of the categories and would love to know what you think. My email is listed at the bottom so send me your thoughts. The categories are: Most Disappointing Event; Best Drug Bar; Worst Drag Performer; Worst Drag Show; Hustler of the Year; Biggest Passed Around Party Bottom; Most Monogamous Couple (which I doubt will have any entries in it); Worst Bar Bathroom; Hottest Mess; Best Fag Hag; Shittiest Bartender; Sissiest Leather

Man; Player of the Year; Most Closeted Homosexual; Best Scandal of the Year; Butchest Bull Dyke and the BE Award of Excellence for Social Climber of the Year. Do you think you would attend an award show if nominated in one of those categories? Your answer should be hell yes. With the popularity of the Razzies (a take-off of the Oscars for worst movie performance, etc.), I think this event may become a smashing success. I for one cannot wait to see who is nominated in all of these categories. Besides isn’t notoriety just as good as popularity. Somehow I have this sinking feeling I once again will be seeing my name multiple times. Personally I have my sights on Hottest Mess.

The A List New York

et your DVR’s, The A-List New York begins its second season on Logo on July 25 at 9pm central time; and the cat fights are at their nastiest. Never having seen season one, I got a chance to glimpse the first show of the new season and they are off to the races with sexual scandals, bitchy slap fests and dirty gossip. With friends like these who needs enemies. I think squaring off against a terrorist would be easier than going toe to toe with Nyasha. Personally I have never been a fan of reality television, finding most of the people on these so called “unscripted” shows vapid, narcissistic and utterly uninspired. This program shows in uncompromising detail that yes gay people on a reality show can be just as insufferable as their straight counterparts. I equate this show to The Jersey Shore. They do to the gay community what the lovely people on that reality show has done to the reputation of Italians. That being said, if you are gay and a huge fan of reality TV, this is definitely the show for you. This season has everything including a very stylish token fag hag. Basically the shows premise is it follows six self-anointed A-Listers as they go about their daily life in New York moving from one fabulous event to the next, causing scenes and just utterly being obnoxious. OMG, Austin you are the next gay Snooki, congrats dude to that. And even though Reichen is not as bad as The Situation, one cannot help but see the similarities. Talk about a train wreck of biblical proportions, this show fluxuates between comical and uncomfortable. The

show’s most noticeable character is Reichen Lehmkuhl who was the winner of CBS’ The Amazing Race. This season opens up with him being caught in a sex scandal, which is actually one of the humorous bits of the show. He has just recently broken up with another cast member model Rodiney Santiago, who is making quite a name for himself in the modeling world. But like all supposedly characters destined to play the woman scorned, he is always very whiny and put upon. They broke up because of Reichen’s lies and cheating. For the love of god, did he not talk to Lance Bass before he started dating him? Add to the mix the bad boy Austin Armacost, whose claim to fame was his close relationship to fashion designer Marc Jacobs, who has very nice watches. Marc, I mean, not Austin, although I am sure he got a lot of nice watches in the very public breakup. Sorry, I digress, so to make a long story short, it seems that one time Reichen and Austin hooked up and now Austin wants him back and basically goes out of his way to make Rodiney’s life a living hell, which is kind of fun to watch in a perverse Mean Girls sort of way. Austin at one point surprisingly claims that Rodiney has burned through all of Reichen’s contacts to help him become famous. I guess one user knows how to spot another, it is just like when shapeshifters can smell each other out like on True Blood, which by the way is a totally better show. Aiding him in his quest of nastiness is the shallowest of the group, Derek Saathoff and my least favorite

character. But he has rich parents and is launching a new bronzer called; wait for it, “Tansexual.” Wow, what a douchebag, I mean did he think about this name all of two seconds. I always love the way offspring always think they have earned their high social status when it is truly because of their very wealthy parents. The Housewives of New York consider themselves socialites too. I think an episode pitting the two casts together planning a gala would be fabulous. Imagine the fur flying on that one. Now that is one show I would watch. Next up in the cast is hairdresser to the rich and famous of New York, Ryan Nickulas (did you not think we wouldn’t have a hairstylist in the mix, oh sorry life-style guru). When did people who cut and color hair (fabulous as they may be), become experts on telling people how to live their lives? But I kind of like Ryan, he seems to be the more level headed of the group, and at times the wittiest. The final guy in the group is famed celebrity photographer Mike Ruiz who has photographed the likes of Kathy Griffin and Deborah Cox. I am sure he has also done Meryl Streep, Tom Cruise and Julia Roberts; they just left those stars out of his bio. He has just moved in with his partner and is starting a coffee table book of male models wearing gorgeous floral designs. Now every home needs one of those. Just kidding, I will put it right next to my books All About the Boys and Men Factory. Rounding out the cast is snappy Nyasha Zimucha, a former Miss Africa [continued on 19]

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Persana Shoulders & SDGM XXXVII Tiffany Alexander

Bar Baron Michael Elias serves up the Corner Pocket buffet

Pat McArdle & Jacey Frew

SDGMs XXXIII Lisa Beaumann & Regina Adams

Todd Waller, Christina Tyler & SDGM XXXVII Tiffany Alexander

Tubby’s Golden Lantern Bar Baron Rick & Corner Pocket bartender David

SDGM XXXVI Toby, Queen AmonRa Tami & SDGM XXXVII Misael

Shay Ives, Matthew Brikhoff, Brad Robbert, SDGM Tiffany Alexander, Craig Domiano & Venus Santiago

Bartender Surfer Dave

Craig Domiano, SDGM XXXVI Julien Artressia & Paul Davis on board the shuttle

Paul Davis & Princesse Stephaney SDGM XXXIII Regina & Vic

Bar Baron Matt Giglio @ 700 Club

Michaels’ on the Park Bar Baron Mike Cookmeyer doin’ the grillin’

Cafe Lafitte in Exile bartender Jeff before 4th of July fried chicken

snap paparazzi

SDGMs XXXVI Toby Lefort & Julien Artressia

Bartender Sammy

Shay Ives in fuchsia style

Lafitte’s bartender Jeff after 4th of July fried chicken

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4th of July ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

Southern Decadence Press Party Unveils 2011 SD Poster @ Bourbon Pub Parade ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Venus Santiago

Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVII Tiffany Alexander & Misael Rubio

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Pride Grand Marshal Misti Ates joins Cutter’s Diva Brunch

Tru DeMille & Top 5 Fly Fashion Award Finalist Raven Kennedy @ JohnPaul’s

Vanessa Raye Garza in Glam @ Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Club LAX

Rickster with Country Club’s Bert & Drew

David, Ronnie & Todd @ Satyricon Todd Murray Fundraiser

Dawn & George @ Satyricon Todd Murray Fundraiser A reunion of the Betty’s Friday night @ Show Bar of the Year Top 5 Finalist JohnPaul’s

Bartender Blake gets in on the action @ Cutter’s Diva Brunch

Oz’s Frankie Fierce & Mitch Ted & Todd @ Satyricon Todd Murray Fundraiser

snap

Darwin, Elizabeth, Opal & Dwain take in FourPlay @ JohnPaul’s

paparazzi

Engender’s RileyRy Conrad performs for Cutter’s Diva Brunch

Top 5 Fly Fashion Glamour Award Finalist Dominique DeLorean in Goddesses of Glam @ Club LAX in Metairie David, Loc, Vic, TJ & Kent @ Satyricon Todd Murray Fundraiser

Top 5 Cheridon Comedy Award Finalist Zsa Zsa d’LaHor in Cutter’s Diva Brunch

Top 5 Lesbian of the Year Finalist Misti Ates & Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist DJ E @ Club LAX

Wedon & Steven @ Satyricon Todd Murray Fundraiser

Cabaret superstar Todd Murray & special guest star New York singing sensation Sally Wilfert @ Satyricon fundraiser

In for Motor Oil Mondays @ Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Oz

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On the Boards ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Ambush, Devin Black, Larry Graham, Tony Leggio

Diva Brunch with Engender’s Corynne Deville & Shelbie Heart @ Cutter’s

under the gaydar ...from 14 pageant winner who now resides in New York. She is the CEO of Embrace Your Hair, a company specializing in wigs and hair accessories. She is also a judge on the TV Show Little Miss Perfect and trying to get her recording career off the ground. But mostly I think she was put on the show to square off against Austin. She has already had an Alexis and Crystal moment with him on the first episode and it is shaping up to be even more interesting in the shows to come. Now this is not higher television, but it is entertaining, mindless fun. Do you take any of these people seriously? Of course, not, but it is fun to watch them run around saying how great and fabulous their lives are. The more telling commentary on this show is that they are the only ones saying that. Dubbed as Housewives with Balls, this show contains all the guilty pleasures of its female counterparts, so be sure to check it out and see who makes it through unscathed.

Are You Ready For Memoirs of A Geisha?

am definitely not talking about the novel or the movie. The Krewe of Petronius is hosting Mem oirs of A GAY-SHA on Saturday, July 30 at 6pm upstairs at Hoshun restaurant. Trying to recreate the great atmosphere of Lucky Cheng’s, guests will enjoy an Asian Buffet, cash bar, silent auction and chopstock raffle. You pick a chopstick and get a prize. There will be a drag cabaret as the members perform songs with an Oriental flair by Bootsie DeVille, Princesse Stephaney, Tami Tarmac, Countess C. Alice and many more. Hoshun is located at 1601 St. Charles Avenue. Tickets are $35. For more information or tickets, go to www.kreweofpetronius.org.

Southern Decadence Gears Up

just wanted to take a moment to congratulate Tiffany Alexander and Misael Rubio on their reign as Southern Decadence Grand Marshals 2011 for the 40th annual celebration. Both people are very well known in the community and will add a special flair to the festivities. They just held one of the loveliest press parties upstairs at the Pub and announced their song and unveiled the poster. Larry Graham has made magic once again capturing the essence of these two dynamic personalities. The theme this year is Viva New Orleans: What Happens in New Orleans Stays in New Orleans. Hopefully Vegas will not give us a cease and desist order, besides that saying has been the motto of this city before Sin City even dreamed it up. Hell, we are the ultimate Sin City. The colors are fuchsia pink, black and silver and the song is Firework by Katy Perry. Now score one for them if we can get her to perform at the event. But I know that Chuck at Napoleon’s Itch will have an incredible line-up of talent for us this year. Returning this year is Broadway Bound singing sensation Deborah Cox. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the date. For more information, go to SouthernDecadence.COM.

in their delusional ideals. Yes, I have been guilty of this myself from time to time, but fortunately for me there is always one of my friends (or worse yet my mother) who pops my balloon bringing me careening back down to earth with the rest of the mortals. Prime example, when I was Easter Grand Marshal, I was in the carriage with one of my best friends, James, loving life, throwing beads and soaking in all the adoration. My ego and head was so swelled I could not believe it actually fit into the carriage. As we made our way pass Oz and the Pub, the crowds chanting my name were deafening. I turned to my friend James and said, “Oh my God, everyone knows me and they all love me.” He said very deadpan, “I love you Tony, and I am truly happy for you, but you are a dumbass, they know your name because it is written on the little sign in front of the carriage and they are excited because you are throwing good beads.” I thought I could actually hear the record scratch stop on the soundtrack in my head. I smiled, bumped my friend, laughed it off and continued throwing beads, knowing full well, that as great and wonderful as being Easter Grand Marshal was, it is not what defined me as a person. So when I see these people winning a crown or title, I truly am very happy for them. There is no better feeling than being recognized for your effort, and let’s face it having a crown put on your head really is pretty cool. I have noticed a new uprising of individuals who have great promise in the gay community, but they have to understand in their enthusiasm, not to get too righteous. Let’s look at some examples of recent crown and title winners. By the way, this column is in no way meant to bash you, just a word of advice in keeping it all in perspective. This is constructive criticism coming from someone who has once been in your shoes. Well, maybe not your four inch heels, but you get the drift. Being awarded a title or crown is exciting, but take a step back and look at things. Did you win your crown because you can really sing, or just because you were the hottest guy performing in the contest? Answer is the probably the latter. And there is nothing wrong with that, but please take some singing lessons or start lip syncing before Lady Gaga drops a house on you. And on another note, screaming a song does not constitute singing. Next, did you win your honor because you knew all the judges personally, slept with someone (which by the way does mean you earned it in my book) or just was the lesser of two evils? The point is it is all beer and bullshit in the end, relish in the fact that people voted you the best out of three of four other

contestants, but please do not think that you speak for the entire gay community. You won a drag contest, not a political race, although I hear those contests are very political. If you are royalty in a krewe, enjoy the honor, but do not think you are the driving force behind that krewe. Remember the organization is made up of many people, that is what a krewe is all about, the whole not just one person. You are the lucky spokesperson for that year, and then you join the ranks of everyone else and someone else gets bestowed that amazing reverence. When an organization honors you with a title and a crown, for the love of god, wear the crown you were given when you win a title, no matter how small or inferior you may consider it to be. It is what they picked out and they chose you to wear it, it is a slap in the face to the entire organization that you chose to wear something bigger or fancier. And even I know this one, never wear someone else’s crown, you did not earn it, you should not wear it. And please do not come up with some excuse, because no one is going to buy it. And I do mean no one. Even on the off chance it is not a lie, you are a drag queen learn how to use a glue gun or staple the bastard in your wig. As Tim Gunn would say, make it work. Mistakes happen, we all make them; it is how we react to them that help us charter through these crazy gay waters. Being gracious and keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground is always the best formula when winning a title or honor. Never let your ego soar too high in the sky, because when you fly too far above the ground there is always someone below taking aim to shoot you down.

Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom

thought it was the heat, but it seems it is also the stupidity. Have some gay people just lost their minds this summer? I know it is hot, but pull it together people. I just found out someone I know is now doing porn. Porn, like real life porn movies, penetration and all! I mean how do you exactly list that on your resume. Then there is the people who have started believing their own press and they are getting a little over zealous

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trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Twelfth Night at Tulane’s Lupin Theater through July 23

had Willingham’s Director’s Notes for the New Orleans Shakespeare Festival production of Twelfth Night state “There is no deep message here, no historical significance. There is, however, a play that invites us to laugh at ourselves in each character, root for love, and escape the cares of the day to a far off land where madness reigns supreme.” Well, all right. And Willingham certainly did deliver an enjoyable comedy, just right for a hot summer’s eve with one of the best ensembles seen at the Shakespeare Festival at Tulane in some time. But still. Twelfth Night is not such a rarity that one couldn’t ask for a somewhat more rigorous approach than merely shifting the setting from Illyria to St. Tropez so that we get a kind of La Cage aux Folles-influenced Shakespeare. For all its madcap hijinx and tomfoolery, this is a play in which characters behave very cruelly towards each other. Were it to be done al fresco like The NOLA Project’s recent Midsummer Night’s Dream a lighter touch would certainly be warranted. But given its academic setting, a darker approach might have yielded a richer, even more satisfying outcome. On its own comic terms, however, this Night takes a while, like many of Shakespeare’s comedies, to get going as the Bard lines up his plot-filled dominoes. When they finally do come crashing down to hilarious and/or moving effect, Willingham nicely pulls all the strands together for a most resonant of payoffs. Bringing the play to life from the moment we see them is the comic trio of Sir Toby Belch, Maria and Sir Andrew Aguecheek. David W. Hoover creates a Sir Toby of Falstaffian proportions, a master manipulator with an underlying mean streak in him. Gary Rucker gives us a simpering but not completely foolish Sir Andrew while Amanda Zirkenbach’s Maria is sassy yet wise. Why Maria was outfitted like Carmen (or Lucy Ricardo playing Carmen) was beyond me however. As Viola and Olivia, Michele Guidry and Heidi Dippold each make impressive New Orleans debuts. Alone in Illyria, Viola quickly transforms into the page Cesario and Guidry makes him outwardly assured while remaining a bundle of nerves within. Dippold creates a lovely, classy Countess; still mourning her brother’s death, upon meeting Cesario/Viola, Dippold slowly allows love to bloom and the interaction between these two is a delight. John Neisler’s Duke Orsino, in love with Olivia and the object of Viola’s affections, was too much the commoner; lacking the regal bearing to match Dippold’s Olivia might have explained, in part, why she was scorning him yet it somehow lessened the character unnecessarily. James Yeargain, as Viola’s twin brother newly arrived in Illyria, may have the best moment in the entire play as Olivia, thinking he’s Cesario, comes on to him. He may not understand what’s going on but, as his eyes light up, it’s clear he’s not going to pass up such a fortuitous opportunity. Ricky Graham has the potential to be a great Malvolio. He certainly knows how to bring out the waspish humor of this priggish scold. But despite being an audience favorite, his was an overripe performance bordering on (and occasionally falling into) camp. Intriguingly, Graham seems to suggest that this Malvolio may be trying to convince himself of amorous feelings towards Olivia that don’t really exist, but this idea needs further clarification. In his final, forlorn moments, however, shorn of all his trappings, Graham was truly touching as he faced a future that would demand a new concept of self. Filling out the cast were James Bartelle (Fabian), Clint Johnson (Feste), Martin Covert (Antonio), Alex Ates (Valentine), Brendan Bowen (Sea Captain/ Priest), Max Jay-Dixon (Curio/Officer), Erin Cessna (Lady/Maid to Olivia), and Matthew Mickal (Waiter). ”Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them” goes Twelfth Night’s most famous line. This Night may not achieve greatness but there’s a lot to be said for very good-ness.

Waiting Around at the AllWays Lounge through July 25

icky Graham and Harry Mayronne, Jr.’s Waiting Around, a tasty evening that serves up the hopes, challenges, pleasures and frustrations of those who attend to us in fine dining establishments,

premiered nine years ago. Not much has changed since then though now a restaurant is likely to add an 18-20% tip to a party of 6 or more rather than 17%. Inflation, eh? Waiting Around (formerly The Black & White Blues) has returned and, invoking the patron saint of waiters, Flo from TV’s Alice, dishes up a new kid on the job’s progression from mastering waiter lingo to deciding she’s gonna stay in the biz. Covering a range of food-related topics from whiny customers to celebrity cooks, along the way we also meet a fairy god-waitress and a druggedout chef. This new version features accomplished direction and choreography by Amanda Zirkenbach—if only restaurant service was always this smooth! Graham’s cute book bestows a distinct personality on each of the servers and his lyrics are well-matched to Mayronne’s bouncy tunes that occasionally contain echoes of their Great White Way counterparts (e.g., A Chorus Line). As before, I do wish Waiting Around employed a few less stereotypes. They’re fairly harmless and, like a Don Rickles spiel, the inclusion of a multitude of ethnic groups blunts their force but with so many other targets to take aim at the authors might want to update this part of their menu. Tracey E. Collins makes for a scrumptious waitress who hopes to open her own restaurant; decked out in a bubble gum pink wig and rhinestone glasses, she’s especially delicious as that Fairy Godwaitress. It’s no surprise that Chris Wecklein, the one holdover from the original cast, has a sharp comic sense, but he achieves real pathos with the show’s title tune and sole ballad, in which he contemplates how his life has turned out. Darcy Malone is properly bubbly as the newcomer but I miss the singular effervescence of Jessie Terrebonne who created the role; it’s the difference, say, between a really fine Perrier-Jouët and Dom Pérignon. The surprise of the production, however, is Jason Kirkpatrick. With his raspy voice and common man physique, it seems like he just came over from working at Antoine’s. What a pleasure to see him singing and dancing up a storm after his subdued turn in The Trip to Bountiful. And he makes a heavenly Julia Child! Su Gonczy’s lighting seems even more appetizing than before and Cecile Casey Covert’s reprises her audacious costumes ranging from a saucy shrimp to a crepe suzette. Yum!

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Cutting Edge Theater, Slidell through July 29

ince debuting in 2005, William Finn & Rachel Sheinkin’s The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has rightfully gone on to take its place in the standard canon of beloved small scale musicals. While not eclipsing still fresh memories of forefront theatre’s Broadway-caliber Spelling Bee of 2009, Cutting Edge’s current presentation offers a very good version of this delightful show which filters America’s obsession with winning and losing through the lens of a local spelling bee. What makes this production noteworthy, aside from being held at the Attractions Hair Salon, is that its six spellers are mostly played by ageappropriate high school students removing the distancing effect that often occurs when adults portray teenagers. We especially feel for these contestants because they are us, back then. Brian Fontenot has staged this “competition” well. If this Bee lacks some of the more nuanced interaction among the characters that forefront’s provided, the overall storylines of the various children’s aspirations and insecurities emerge clearly enough. Not having an Asian actress play the overachieving Marcie Park dims some of Sheinkin’s satire but doesn’t detract too much from one’s enjoyment. Though some of the cast’s voices could be stronger, they sound fine when they all come together; Cat Hayes, making her area debut as the Bee’s organizer and former champion, provides an especially lovely sound. Samantha Barnes, the speller with two Dads, nicely limned Logainne’s awkwardness and intelligence; one could certainly believe she’d become a Cabinet Secretary some day as the epilogue informs us. Though Jake Weaver’s Leaf Coneybear doesn’t make it to the final round, I would dub Weaver the champ of this production. Leaf, originated by Modern Family’s Jesse Tyler Ferguson, has always seemed a little odd to me, a kind of man/boy inappropriately still in high school. Played by a young actor, Leaf’s trances and tics become more understandable, as much a part of a sensitive boy’s arsenal to get him through childhood as his scooter and self-made cape. Armed with a powerful, pitch-perfect singing voice, Weaver is that rare child actor who doesn’t seem to be acting. Equally strong as one of Logainne’s overbearing gay Dads, Weaver emanates a stage presence that should serve him well as he moves up to the big leagues. Sheinkin’s witty, Tony Award-winning book may seem a little racy by Slidell standards which is all the more reason to make the trip to St. Tammany. Just [continued on 24]

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trodding the boards ...from 22 leave a little extra time to have dinner at the delectable Thai Orchid restaurant a few doors down from the theater/salon.

pensacola papar azzi

Brother at The Elm Theatre through Aug. 6

Great Friends @ The Other Side for BINGO Bruce the WINNER of Emerald City’s wet boxer contest Monica Heart getting the guys wet @ Emerald City’s wet boxer contest

Valerie Heart, BINGO’S newest bartender

July 4th Weekend @ Emerald City

Hostess of wet boxer contest Lauren Mitchell getting soaked herself

Robert & Daniel @ The Other Side

Brentt all smiles @ The Other Side Emerald City’s very own William

So happy to be at BINGO

We all feel safe with LLyod around Lauren Mitchell & the ladies of Bingo

Jessica & Valerie keeping it fun on the dance floor

Bingo @ The Other Side. The only place to celebrate your birthday!

Jon Thomas double fisting as allways @ BINGO

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Wet, Soaked, Bingo ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

n Lisa Ebersole’s Brother, Jamie’s husband Kevin arrives home from work around 4am (he’s a paralegal on the night shift) to find Carl, a black man whose name Jamie barely knows, and Margeaux, Jamie’s younger sister whom he despises, in their apartment. Though it’s Jamie’s birthday, this is not the start of any happy celebration. Ebersole seems to want to tell a story involving love and trust and family loyalties and racism, but what should be ambiguous is confusing, what could be implied is spelled out, and much too much remains underdeveloped. Rather than creating characters that an audience can care about, Ebersole manipulates them with an all too obvious authorial hand. Director Sarah Zoghbi does as best she can with this, skillfully guiding her actors to negotiate both the plot’s hairpin turns and those tangential passages that threaten to halt the play’s momentum. As Jamie, Rebecca Elizabeth Hollingsworth is charmingly real and ingenuous while leaving open the possibility that she’s not as innocent as she seems. As this 50 minute one-act comes to its conclusion, a look of ineffable sadness crosses her face mixed with ocean deep confusion as to what the future holds for her. Becca Chapman captures Margeaux’s toughness but not fully the dissipation that would accrue to someone, even as young as Margeaux, if booze, pills, sex and cigs are as steady a diet as the script implies. After playing the dissolute Froggy in Blackbird, this naturally ebullient actress does deserve a lighter though no less complex role. At first I thought Gamal Abdel Chasten’s Carl needed a sharper edge, but as his character was revealed, the humility and deference that Chasten affects, as well as lightning-quick ability to defuse a situation, seemed just right. I question whether, given the situation, he would come on to Margeaux, but one can’t blame Chasten for that. As Kevin, Ross Britz brings conviction to the least focused part; we may not know exactly what causes Kevin’s explosive rage when he sees Margeaux but we sure do believe he’s really mad. Brother is provocative and provides an opportunity to see four fine local actors. One just wishes this vehicle was made of sturdier construction.

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ambush

papar azzi

Celebrating the 4th with DL Broadway @ Michael’s on the Park

Celebrating @ Good Friends chicken drop contest

Richie & friends @ Good Friends

Good Friends bartender Cha Cha

Joining the egg toss @ Lafitte’s

Coca @ Lafitte’s for the egg toss

Travis wears a bride to be’s veil @ 700 Club

Having fun @ Oz Festive Fourth of July celebrants @ Lafitte’s

Winners of the egg toss @ Lafitte’s Jerry & Michael snag one @ The Corner Pocket

Frankie handles the Chef’s weenies @ Oz

Julian takes his bird for a walk @ Lafitte’s

Margarita Bergen @ Brian Sands 4th of July soiree

Rawhide’s Joe playing with his bird for the chicken drop contest @ Good Friends

Princesse serves everyone up at Michael’s on the Park

The chicken landed on Tony Leggio’s color at the chicken drop contest

Fab art by Doyle Jaeger @ Oz

Corey & Sammy celebratin’ @ Bourbon Pub Parade

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Celebrating the 4th! ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

The men of Napoleon’s Itch

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1300

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23 ES TR R A H C

FR 2 A 500 N K L L 26 00 IN YA O R E LO IN U PH IS U A A D

EN 00 C EL H 2 YS 1 0 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

Slidell, LA [985] OLDE SLIDELL ANTIQUE DISTRICT, First & Erlanger Streets, antique malls, gift shops, doll shop & restaurants, 643.4790, SlidellAntiques.COM

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 MIDTOWN 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, HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807

body rubs New Orleans, LA Experience The BODY ELECTRIC, nude rub, erotic, hot oils, full service table, deep tissue, light tissue, body scrubs. In & out calls. CALL AL 214.709.5199 [is1511]

book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 Mr. Binky's Boutique, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095 Mr. Binky's Boutique of Harahan, 301 Funston St., 305.2160

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

casinos RT PA M A R

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

antiques

KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735 LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 MICHAEL'S ON THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615 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 SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156. TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, TubbysBar.COM Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

Lafayette, LA [337] 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, 4seasonsno.com CLUB LAX, 2301 N. Causeway, 834.7979 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, CuttersBar.BIZ THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM

Lake Charles, LA [337] L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, 777 Avenue L’Auberge, 337.395.7777 or 866.580.7444, ldlcasino.com New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS, GayHarrahsNOLA.COM

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is1111]

circuit/events Aug. 31-Sept. 5, 40th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 27-30, Halloween 28, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 29, 2011-Jan. 3, 2012, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 17-21, 2012, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012, 13th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 25-28, 2012, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM

counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, PhD, LPC, Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA

70002; 836.0000

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

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

guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] FRADY'S ONE STOP GROCERY & DELICATESSEN, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688, fradyfied@aol.com QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Rue Dauphine, 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur, 565.5555

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. [0711] 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. [0811] FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. E-mail us at reservations@bpmhotels.com. Official Host Hotel of Oz New Orleans. One of several French Quarter residences that have been painstakingly restored and transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites, executive townhouses, intimate cottages and comfortable rooms. Adjacent to the French Quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking.

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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. [0112] 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 [is2611]

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

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 Cam-

pus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

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

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife 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, w w w.inthistogetherinc.org, michael@ittnola.org KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, info@kreweofarmeinius.org, 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

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PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 Softball: NOLA SOFTBALL LEAGUE, nolasoftball.com THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 Until It Is OVER, Inc., Executive Director Don S. Evans, Sr., 5837 De Bore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70126, Phone 504 722 1694, Fax 504 286 5784 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] PIPES "R" US PLUMBING, “Let us PEEP in your pipes”, 140 N. Carrollton Ave., Office 504.866.2730, Fax 504.484.0907, PipesRUsNewOrleans.COM RAMSEY PLUMBING, repairs, repipe, sewer & drain cleaning, water heaters, disposals, 296.6865

psychic New Orleans, LA [504] PALM & TAROT CARD READER, 109 Hickory Ave., Harahan; 3116 Williams Blvd., Kenner; 644.5986

real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] FRENCH QUARTER REALTY, Agents: Gary R. Williams 251.2047, Sandy Preston 319.7500; Office 949.5400 PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Brett A. Rector, Cell: 453.2277, Office: 891.6400, brettinla@aol.com

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ,3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965 Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon, 504.52.CANDY Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 The Decadence Shoppe (coffehouse &

cafe), 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM Frady's One Stop Grocery & Delicatessen, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688 The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley, 301.3347, GreenGoddessNOLA.COM Krystal, 116 Bourbon @ Canal, 523.4030 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 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, 4636 W. Esplanade, 888.7722, Suzettes.COM New Orleans, LA [504] THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 711 St. Peter [French Quarter], 525.4372; 5055 Canal St. [Mid City], 488.4889, 712 Adams St. [Uptown], 861.4644, HerbImport.COM KRAZY KATZ ON BOURBON, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 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] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 SOUTHERN REP THEATRE, Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 3rd Floor, 522.6545, SouthernRep.COM

websites CRESCENT CITY, CrescentCity.COM GAY AMERICA, GayAmerica.COM GAY BARS, GayBars.COM GAY PENSACOLA, GayPensacola.COM OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

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acadiana

papar azzi

Steven Reed ‘planking’ @ Tonic

Darius passed out @ Tonic AGAIN!

Jules’ karaoke host Blake Duhon

John enjoying July 4th Joe ‘planking’ @ Jules Mr. Cruz singing his favorite song Newlyweds Wendy & Maria

Grilling Bobby Jindal for July 4th! Lian & Matt @ Jules Mattie & Chad Evans @ Tonic

Mike!

Darren enjoys his wine Skylar singing his heart out @ Tonic Craig visiting Lafayette

Tylor & Ryan

Jacque, Ryan, Mike, Nick & Joey

Jacque, Raven & Rick

Miss July 4th

Macky the mixologist @ Tonic

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J uly 19-August 1, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Planking, Surprise, Grilling ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins

Surprise, Surprise!

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

s it hot enough for you? Wipe that sweat off your forehead and pick your dignity up from the curb. There’s much more summer to come! You’re listening up with Joey Collins.

The OWI Fad

kay Acadiana, something seriously needs to be addressed. You like to drink, I like to drink, she likes to drink, the dog likes to drink, and we all drink together. It tends to happen. But let’s face it; the rise of OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) offenses has been quite alarming. It seems like they’re handing out OWI’s faster than condoms at Club New Orleans on Toulouse. Odds are that if you live in New Iberia and frequent any of the drinking establishments, you know somebody who has been issued an OWI within this year alone. When did we become so sloppy or when did the police become so aggressive? I don’t see law enforcement officials backing down any time soon. In fact there is a billboard in

front of my apartment complex that reminds drivers how many OWI arrests were made in 2010. It’s sort of like a “I gotcha” bragging rights kind of slap in the face. Not cute, Lafayette law officials! I’d love to put on a preacher’s robe and tell you to not drink and drive. We all know the PSA’s. Let’s be honest, odds are the drinking will not dry up. When someone says they’re the “dd” they’re typically talking about being the designated drinker. I know not an individual in the bar that refuses a drink. Though Ambush Magazine and I do not endorse drunk driving, here are some tips to get out of things. First off, get out of driving from the beginning. I typically use the excuse, “I’m low on gas so we have to take your car” or “My backseat is filled with boxes so you may need to drive.” It always works. Make sure that you do not look obvious. Law enforcement officers always look for a reason to pull you over. Make sure everything on your car is legit. This means do you have an expired inspection sticker or license

plate? If so then odds are they will pull you over. Are your headlights working properly? Check your car and make sure that all tail lights and blinkers are working. Use your blinker especially when changing lanes. Do not take a car with dark tinted windows. I was once riding in a car and our “dd” was pulled over for dark tinted windows. Many times at two in the morning the law enforcement officers do not care about your expired inspection sticker or your tinted windows. What they do care about is looking for a reason to pull you over even if you’re driving perfectly. They know that odds are that at 2am on a Saturday night you’re coming home from the bar and you’ve been drinking. The girl who was driving was doing exactly just that and what really sucked is that it wasn’t even her car. A field sobriety test was given and the rest is an epic fail. Let’s just say when the ankle bracelet was put on for house arrest it was not a pretty fashion accessory. One last thing that I must share but I definitely wouldn’t recommend you attempting. I have a friend of mine who was charged with an OWI this past winter. The thing about it all was that it was no surprise. He has a habit of living life on the crazy side. This guy had actually been pulled over multiple times with empty beer bottles on the floor board of his car. He always got out of it by faking an asthma attack.

Many of the officers didn’t want to deal with the liability of such a situation and simply let him go. Luckily he was only a few blocks away from his house. Crazy thing is that this situation happened more than once. I don’t recommend this because at one point he was put in the back of an ambulance. I mean it does trump a jail cell but it’s still costly. It happens. Some people just never learn and then some simply become sloppy. Finally one day he hit a curb and busted his tire. In a drunken stupor he dialed 911 and law enforcement officers were sent to him. At first the officers were kind and were helping him out. (BTW: Officers can be nice and assist with road hazards and other things like a flat tire and lack of gas.) Everything is fine and dandy and the officers are helping him out until suddenly they smell vodka on his breath. Cut to a night spent in jail. Now I know what you’re thinking, he should have called roadside assistance or a tow truck company. This doesn’t work as well because according to law, the tow truck driver must report such incidents to local law enforcement. So what should he have done? Take the key out the ignition, sit on the curb, and crack open a cold one and wait for law officials and a tow truck. When they show up claim, “Damn I was so pissed off about f**king up my car that I just [continued on 34]

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a community within communities The Beloved Community by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church here was for a time one who walked among us and had the vision of a prophet. This man was despised by some and idolized by others. He is an icon now and fading from our communal memory. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. brought a unique voice to the litany of prophets that preceded him. Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Amos and others called for profound justice in their ages. Dr. King, with them, held us accountable in a way whose time has come again.

Baton Rouge Pride Fest @ Belle of Baton Rouge Atrium~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

Mr. & Miss Capital City Pride

Krewe of Divas cast member

Baton Rouge Gay Pride

As a community within communities we must understand first the notion that part of the human condition is conflict. Yet, Dr. King held and we must hold that conflict need not be reduced or expressed with violence and retribution or social withdrawal. That when we respond to conflict with tolerance and indeed with respect the outcome necessarily changes the relationship to those we oppose. This kind of nonviolent response robs the oppressor of his power. In so doing we become The Beloved Community. Dr. King held that indeed we are our brother’s keeper precisely because we are all brothers. Certainly some of our communities in this fabric of New Orleans have met oppression with humor even kindness rather than violence. Yet more often than not communities withdraw or become passive. Withdrawal, while being a safe place, is a place that

acadiana happens ...from 33 Singer Josh Duffy performs Krewe of Divas’ Adriana Alexander & Chica La Rouge

baton rouge papar azzi

had to lay back, have a small drink, and wait for you guys to come.” Then just ask for the tow truck driver to drive you home. As long as that key is not in the ignition then all is well. Even if they gave a sobriety test, they can’t prove that you were drinking and driving. Luckily Lafayette doesn’t give tickets for public intoxication….I don’t even know if that is a law here in South Louisiana. (Note to self, look that up.)

Bar Spill

Miss & Mr. Krewe of Divas

Baton Rouge Gay Pride

Melissa Marquis & friend

Baton Rouge Gay Pride

onic will be holding its annual Mr. and Miss Apollo Party on Saturday, July 23rd at 10pm. Doors open at 7pm and admission is $8 for 21 and over or $10 for patrons who are under 21. As always you must be 18 or older to enter. This party is not closed to krewe members only, all are invited to attend. More information can be found at www.kreweofapollo.com. Tonic still celebrates its weekly schedule of events. Monday night is beer pong with Brodie Lee Meche (not Miss Mess) and Customer Appreciation Night with Miss Steven Reed. Tuesday night is the infamous Talent Night that everyone talks about. Wednesday night is Kick-Ass Karaoke and Thursday Night is Drink and Drown with DJ Point-N-Click playing all of your requests. Friday night welcomes

keeps all of us just where we are - apart instead of a part of the whole. Too often in the 21st century we withdraw under the guise of individuality, or giving each other our own space, or even as a way to no longer be hurt or socially damaged by an oppressive culture of judgment and fear. When, as a community black, white, rich, poor, gay or straight we withdraw we establish a self fulfill[continued on 37]

in the weekend with Ladies Night followed by Saturday night drinks specials. Sunday tops off the week by serving Tea With A Twist or TWAT. Your host, DJ Keith Doucet plays a variety of music. Word on the street is that Jules has a country-free karaoke night each Thursday with host Blake Duhon. Odds are you’ll catch Blake climbing on the furniture and belting out some of his favorite tunes or you’ll find one of the bartenders attempting to plank on the bar. Either way, it makes for an interesting night. Friday night ushers in the weekend with the Best Damn Drag Show. Each show features a different theme. Saturday night will always be Dance, Dance, Dance!. Drink specials are called out each night. As always, for the most up-to-date information please follow the following Facebook groups: Ambush Magazine, Lafayette Gay Men, Lafayette Lesbians, Jules, Tonic Lafayette, T With A Twist, and DJ Point N Click. Don’t forget that Ambush is always accessible at AmbushMag.COM.

Closing Out

hether you’re spending your summer planking on a bar top or owling on a bar stool, remember to stretch first and keep it safe. Keep the party going, Acadiana!

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36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J uly 19-August 1, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

a community within communities ...from 34 ing cycle of disengagement. Withdrawal in this case then is a form of passive violence because it damages the Beloved Community. For Dr. King and indeed for us the bottom line is this, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” The Beloved Community like “Ubuntu” recognizes that as a whole community we must care for all peoples where ever we are located, however we express our personhood. Culturally, part of New Orleans resiliency is embedded in our sense of live and let live or a sense of “Laissez les bon temps rouler” yet is this permissive view so pervasive that we abandon our Beloved Community to the end of self satisfaction at the expense of the whole of humanity around us? In some way if GLBT community is denied civil unions we are all impaired regarding our rights of inheritance, who our medical guardians may be, and indeed our individual rights to dispose of property as we see fit. In some way if we do not invest in Black Commerce, support profound and excellent educational goals for poor children, and we continue to accept social rejection from any quarter we are all at risk for violence, depravity, and indignity as such becomes part of what is

‘normal’ in New Orleans. Jesus the Galilean said, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.” The Beloved Community is engaged and active, it is indeed the “salt of the earth” it respects, disputes, and reconciles. The Beloved Community is indeed the horizon of honor, justice, dignity and community that Jesus called “the Kingdom of God.” Through us, by us, and with us the Kingdom of God can indeed be at hand in The Beloved Community, find this community and be a full participant in humanity. “It is this type of spirit and this type of love that can transform opposers into friends. It is this type of understanding goodwill that will transform the deep gloom of the old age into the exuberant gladness of the new age. It is this love that will bring about miracles in the hearts of [every person].” --Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 1956 For further information on St. Anna's Episcopal Church, visit www.stannanola.org or e-mail frbill@stannanola.org or call 504.847.2121.

Counseling and Psychotherapy Couples, individuals, communication skills, coming out, relationship issues, grief and substance abuse. Gay therapist for Lesbian and Gay Issues.

We care. We understand.

A Co u n s e l i n g Co o p e r a t i v e

5 0 4 .8 3 6 .0 0 0 0 3001 Fifth St. Metairie, LA 70002 David Wagner, PhD, LPC, NCC, CHT

obituary Jack (John) Swafford 12/06/1958-6/27/2011 ack (John) Swafford passed away on Monday, June 27th at Ochsner Baptist Hospital, New Orleans. At his side was his companion of nineteen years Steve Taylor. Jack was born in New Jersey and moved with his family at four years old to middle Tennessee. He left for Florida during his sixteenth year, and on to New Orleans about a year, 1976, where he stayed the rest of his life. He was among jobs when he was hired on at the Criminal Parish Courthouse, where he stayed for twenty-five years, serving at the administration office. He traveled to Boston and New York, then Phoenix, Arizona, California, Texas and New Mexico. Jack met Steve during 1992 and they grew into fast friends quickly. They spent two months following Katrina at Steve's sister Janet's house in Taylor, Michigan and then returned to New Orleans to retire.

Only 3 Issues til Southern Decadence Call Ambush 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Gay East erParade.COM • J uly 19-August 1, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

ambush

papar azzi

Motor Oil Wrestling Mondays @ Oz

Lord King XXV Michael & Lord Consort XXVII Tim @ the Phoenix

Princesse Stephaney & Eva Las Vegas joins Opal’s Follies @ JohnPaul’s

Reinita Deville & Engender’s Corynne Deville @ Oz

Kajun’s Pub bartender Wendy

Crab boil @ Villa Roget on the 4th of July In for Opal’s Follies @ JohnPaul’s

Ed & Lord King Ben XXVIII @ Lords Beer Bust

Ronnie descends his staircase to greet guests at Villa Roget for Ronnie & David’s July 4th Party

Bartender Blake & Cindy @ Oz Bartender Kevin welcomes you to Monday’s Bean Night @ Cutter’s

Lord Consort XXVIII Pat with JohnPaul’s John & Paul @ Lords Beer Bust

Random beefcakes were aplenty at Villa Roget for Ronnie & David’s July 4th Party

Ronald, with Oz bartenders Frankie & Chris Bartenders Drew & Eric hail from The Country Club

Ken @ Lords of Leather Beer Bust @ Phoenix

Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist Jeff Waguespack from Lafitte’s

Darwin, Kajun’s Pub’s JoAnn, Opal & Marsha @ Kajun’s Pub

Lords of Leather’s Capt. Gary Vandeventer @ Ronnie & David’s July 4th Party

38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J uly 19-August 1, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

The Social Scene ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

Treasurer George Tresch joins Lords of Leather Beer Bust @ the Phoenix

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40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J uly 19-August 1, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM