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2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

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

Only 2 Weeks til Southern Decadence!

es, it's almost hear, the giant 41st Official Southern Decadence celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture. All roads lead to New Orleans Wednesday, August 29th through Labor Day, Monday, September 3rd as over 135,000 participants including tourist and locals are anticipated for this end of summer circuit splash. The events this year have multiplied, and will offer each individual something that will entice them to enjoy the weekend that is world renown, Southern Decadence (SD). Visit the Official Southern Decadence website, SouthernDecadence.COM for a complete list of events. Southern Decadence Grand Marshals (SDGMs) XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard have set the tone for this year's celebration The theme is Peace, Hope & Love = Monkey Dance, while the colors are white, purple and silver. Starships by Nicki Minaj is the official song, and Belle Reve was chosen as the charity with a goal of raising $10,000. This 2012 colorful poster is the result of a Grey Cross Studios' photo shoot, with Studio 11's Jessie Matthew Elliot credited with graphic art and design, as well as original art by Jacey Frew. The official sponsors include Ambush Mag, SouthernDecadence.COM, Quartermaster Deli, Harrah’s, Scoots, Absolut, Bud Light, QT Pie, Panda Bear, Bayou Beau, Fifi Mahoney’s, Rathbone Mansions, and Grey Cross Studios.

Grand Marshals Announce Final Fundraisers; SD Scooter Raffle

he final fundraisers have been set to benefit Official Southern Decadence Charity Belle Reve, which provides permanent and transitional housing along with full support services to adults and families living with AIDS or HIV related infections in Louisiana. SDGMs Pat McArdle and TJ Conard also want to remind everyone that raffle tickets are currently available at all fundraisers for a lucky winner to take home the Southern Decadence Scooter. The drawing is set for Saturday, September 1st at the 9th Bourbon Street Extravaganza, corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets pre-

Giant Southern Decadence edition out Aug. 28th DEADLINE: Fri., Aug. 17th

inside

southern decadence celebrazzi/new orleans real estate under the gaydar snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/new orleans pensacola paparazzi trodding the boards

5 6 10 12 16 18 20 24

29th halloween new orleans 25 baton rouge paparazzi 26 classifieds 28 reVIEW...books, movies, cds 32 a community within communities 32 mobile paparazzi 34 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 36 paparazzi/nola, lafayette, metairie 38

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

Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Pat McArdle & TJ Conard (Photo by Grey Cross) sented by Napoleon's Itch. Events include: Saturday, August 18th ~12noon-4pm, Southern Decadence Party hosted by Bayou Beau benefiting Belle Reve @ The Country Club ~9pm, Southern Decadence Grand Marshal TJ's Big Country Hoe-Down Party benefiting Belle Reve @ 700 Club Monday, August 20th 7pm, Southern Decadence Pot Luck Burlesque benefiting Belle Reve @ The Corner Pocket Friday, August 24th ~9pm, Southern Decadence Show benefiting Belle Reve @ Splash Baton Rouge Sunday, August, 26th ~10pm, 70's Benefit Party benefiting Belle Reve @ The Official Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby's Golden Lanter Wednesday, August 29th ~7-9pm, Southern Decadence Poster Signing benefiting Belle Reve with ongoing 50/50 Raffle announcing the winner that evening @ Rawhide The annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Dinner, which is by invitation only, has been set for Thursday, August 23rd @ Pat O'Briens.

Longest Running Southern Decadence Events FREE for All!

es, it is true, the longest running Southern Decadence events are free for all to attend, well, those of legal age

anyway. No VIP passes or cover charges apply. The longest running free Southern Decadence events include: Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals' Drag Show on Friday, August 31st, 10pm, at Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby’s Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street, featuring Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard with former SDGMs and many others. 9th Bourbon Street Extravaganza on Saturday, September 1st, 5pm, presented by Napoleon's Itch is the huge live free concert featuring big stars on the circuit plus many surprises attracting thousands to the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets. 38th Official Southern Decadence Parade celebrating the 41st Southern Decadence led by Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard on Sunday, Sept. 2nd, 2pm sharp, beginning at the Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby's Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street. This walking parade is open for anyone to participate in, which is a glorified street march/bar crawl stopping at many of New Orleans famous gay bars. 19th Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss also on Sunday, 4-4:30ish pm at the Ambush Mansion balcony, 828 Bourbon Street. Hosted by Southern Decadence Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha, and sponsored by Ambush Mag and SouthernDecadence.COM, the bead toss brings SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard following the parade out onto the famous Bourbon Street balcony to toss thousands of throws to the crowds below. 15th Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl on Monday, September 3rd, 2pm, led by Cruise Director - Ted Mahaffy direct from Chicago, honoring SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard, begins with snacks at The Corner Pocket, then to The Double Play, Le Roundup, Society Page, 700 Club, Ninth Circle, Voodoo, ending with a BBQ @ Michael’s On The Park. There are many other events at clubs and venues across the city which are currently listed as of press time. For the complete events list, visit SouthernDecadence.COM, and Like F a c e b o o k . C O M /

SouthernDecadenceNOLA. [continued on 8]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Louisiana-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 OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi

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 NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Paul Melancon 504.357.8440 paulmelancon_ambushmag@yahoo.com THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Blanche-Alabama Devin, Tony Leggio, Kyler Landry, Rev. Bill Terry, Rory Wright-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-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. ©1982-2012, 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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outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVIII TJ Conard and Pat McArdle join Cutter’s Bar Baron Mac McAll for the Southern Decadence Poster Signing fundraiser hosted at Cutter’s in New Orleans raising over $300 for Belle Reve, the Official Charity of Southern Decadence 41.

h What A Drag’s Marc Anthoni presents Queen of the Night to Clinton O. Parfait, aka Roxxi, during the 20th employee turnabout hosted by the Bourbon Pub Parade in New Orleans. A portion of bar sales and bartender’s tips benefited NO/AIDS Task Force’s Food For Friends program. The total raised was not available at press time.

he Master Batters and Baby Batters joined together to raise funds at 700 Club in New Orleans to send both teams to the Gay World Series in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

C Countess C. Alice joins Dragging With The Stars winner Bradley Morvant, 1st runner-up Tony Leggio (aka Antoinette Ella Chardonnay), and Tony’s mentor Dusty DeBris, during the Krewe of Petronius’ 2nd annual turnabout featuring the “magic birth of drag queens” at Michael’s On The Park in New Orleans. Funds raised benefit the krewe’s 52nd ball on January 19, 2013.

celebrazzi

ord King and Consort XXIX Ed Azemas and Jason Ashford reigned over the Lords of Leather’s annual Luau hosted at Lion’s Inn in New Orleans raising funds for the krewe’s 30th bal masque on February 10,

2013.

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the "official" dish ...from 4

Hidden Treasures: Historical Documents Edition Aug. 27 & 29

oin the Friends of the Cabildo as the Louisiana State Museum’s impressive Historical Documents Collection is opened for an exclusive behind-the-scenes viewing, August 27th & 29th. A collection of presenters including Louisiana State Museum (LSM) Director of Collections Greg Lambousy, New Orleans Notarial Archives Projector Director Howard Margot, LSM Curator for the Louisiana Historical Center SarahElizabeth Gundlach, and others will provide a glimpse into one of America’s greatest archives. The Louisiana Historical Center, located at the Old U.S. Mint, opened in 1977 and has served thousands of researchers from around the world. In addition to its priceless collection of Colonial-era manuscripts and maps, the Center houses a wealth of primary and secondary source materials in a wide range of media. Areas that will be focused by experts will include the Colonial Louisiana Records, manuscripts, maps, music, newspapers, scrapbooks and more. The Historical Center’s maps collection alone holds over 1,400 original maps, ranging from richly illustrated 16th and 17th century views of the New World to a 1986 guide to K&B drugstore location in New Orleans. The Center’s records of the French Superior Council (1714-1769) and the Spanish Judiciary (1769-1803) are an invaluable primary source for researching Louisiana’s colonial history. These criminal and civil court documents record the social, political, and economic lives of free and enslaved Africans, native peoples, and European colonists. Hidden Treasures of the Louisiana State Museum: Historical Documents Edition takes place Monday and Wednesday, August 27th and 29th. Tours are at 5:30pm and 7pm at the Old U.S. Mint, located at 400 Esplanade Avenue in the French Quarter. Cost is $25 per person, or $20 for Friends of the Cabildo and Louisiana Museum Foundation members. Reservations are required, and space is

extremely limited. To reserve your space, please contact Kaydee Nenninger at 504.523.3939. Friends of the Cabildo is a private non-profit volunteer group that provides financial and volunteer support 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.

610 Stompers Featured in Marketing Video

he New Orleans dance krewe known as “The 610 Stompers” traded their trademark red and blue 70’s inspired “uniforms” for hard hats, safety vests and jeans to play dancing construction workers in a new video to market the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center’s 60,300 square foot column-free Great Hall Ballroom, currently under construction. The video, titled Dream Big, Think Easy, is a joint effort between the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau to promote one of the most exciting transformations of the convention center in years. The video makes its social media debut via an e-blast to more than 25,000 contacts, which will contain a link to a special microsite dedicated to promoting the Great Hall, www.neworleansgreathall.com, with direct access to the video here: http://

vimeo.com/45835666. The hope is for the video to “go viral” among the people who plan meetings and conventions. “We are very excited for the prospects of The Great Hall bringing new convention visitors to New Orleans and providing new options to our current base of business, said Center General Manager Bob Johnson. “The project also includes a much needed new front door providing our guests a better sense of arrival, with the improvements at the Julia Street and Convention Boulevard intersection.” “The addition of a 60,000 square foot hotel-quality ballroom and reconfiguration of the entryway at the convention center is the most important upgrade to the New Orleans meetings industry in years,” said Stephen Perry, President and CEO of the New Orleans CVB. “It fills a need in the event space inventory and provides a new tool with which to attract conventions to the city. The 610 Stompers video is a creative marketing tool that blends our convention strengths and iconic New Orleans culture,” Perry added. The 60,300 square foot, columnfree ballroom, slated to open in January 2013, will be christened “The Great Hall” in reference to the Convention Center’s first use as the Great Hall of the 1984 World’s Fair. In addition, a new front door will be constructed, providing a grand “sense of arrival” that befits a Convention Center in one of the world’s most favored convention destinations. Additional features of note will include a 4,660 sq.ft. junior ballroom, complete with a 3,420 sq.ft. rooftop terrace, a 980 sq.ft. indoor balcony and a 5,700 sq.ft. executive club lounge.

4th Dykeadence Set for Labor Day Weekend

he 4th annual Dykeadence, celebrated over Labor Day weekend in New Orleans, joins Southern Decadence, one of the largest gay celebrations in the world. Since 2009, Dykeadence has organized safe, high quality queer Southern Decadence events specifically for women, trans people, people of color and friends. Organizer Sara Pic describes that she “saw the deep desire in our community to be a part of Southern Decadence. We were bystanders who simply wanted to get in on the debauchery of Decadence in a safe space for us.” [continued on 10]

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real estate Improvements Which Add Most Value with Least Investment

o, what home improvements add the most value, with the least investment? If you’re thinking about selling your home, this is a reasonable question to ask. Even if you are not thinking about selling right away, you might be wondering which improvements have the most impact and offer a reasonable chance of recovering the cost, without making a major investment. First, consider your home’s current paint and wallpaper. If the walls are in bad shape, or the colors and wallpaper are dated, fresh paint can add quite a bit to your home’s value. Patch and sand to fill cracks, cover holes, and remove any irregularities. Choose a neutral color except for maybe a splash of color on one wall, and break out the paint brushes. Doing the job yourself makes this a low-cost improvement with a huge impact. Our gay realtor experts consistently point to kitchens and bathrooms as the improvements offering the best return on investment. Of course, they are usually talking about big-ticket upgrades and remodeling. However, not all upgrades require a big investment. > If a total kitchen remodel is beyond your budget, cabinets can be resurfaced or even a coat of paint with new hardware. > Counters can be upgraded to stone which are sold by the square foot, if your kitchen is not very large, or even new laminate at a few hundred dollars, replacing the counters might be reasonably inexpensive. > If your kitchen or bath faucets leak or simply look old, replacements can be inexpensive. Installing new faucets is relatively easy to do. With some additional effort, a bathroom vanity can be replaced. For your home homes closets, there are a variety of storage upgrades to make better use of the space including reasonably-priced closet organizers that are sold as ready-to-assemble units. Organized roomy closets make a huge difference. If your home has hardwood floors, have them refinished to make them look “as good as new” (plan on about $1.50 per square foot for refinishing). In some cases, simple maintenance is an improvement that adds value. Make the yard immaculate: add mulch, pull weeds, and fertilize the grass. Maintaining a nice yard does not have to be expensive and it adds curb appeal ~ it’s the first thing potential buyers see. Look at simple things like the mailbox and entry light fixtures. Here is one suggestion for a home improvement that has negative cost: get rid of things you no longer need! Have a garage sale; let other people pay you to get rid of things, or donate them to charity; you know, practicing the law of circulation. Seriously, getting rid of unnecessary items will make your home look bigger. Clutter and just “too much stuff” is the #1 issue our gay realtors have to confront when listing a home. Less is better. Of course the improvements that add the most value with the least investment will be determined by the parts of your home that need help. When you attack a problem area of your home, value is added. If you need a professional opinion and guidance about making improvements to your home, prior to listing it for sale, one of the many professional gay realtors at gayrealestate.com will be happy to provide you a free consultation. Author Jeff Hammerberg is the Founding CEO of www.GayRealEstate.com.

the "official" dish ...from 8 In 2009, at the first and only Dykeadence event, the club was packed beyond capacity. Since then, more and more events joined the Dykeadence calendar and attendance has quadrupled. Even last year in 2011, in the midst of a tropical storm, all of the events and parties still saw an increase in attendance from 2010. Dykeadence event organizers are confident this trend will continue, with many women traveling from cities as far away as Seattle and New York, as well as hundreds of women from across the South. Dykeadence 2012 features a pool party at a queer country club, a kinky costume party, drag king and queer burlesque shows, and social mixers and other parties. The blow-out last party of the weekend is Fleurt by GrrlSpot, which throws one of the hottest monthly parties for women and friends in New Orleans. GrrlSpot Director Christine Johnson relays, “I’m very excited about Dykeadence this year. We got a lot of great exposure for the women of Southern Decadence last year and we’ve already grown bigger and better for the upcoming year. GrrlSpot’s ‘Fleurt’ was the largest (Dykeadence) event of the weekend and the most successful ever for GrrlSpot - this year, we’re taking out all the stops.”

HIV Home Test Helps Identify HighRisk Partners Among Gay Men

ccording to a study released online, a rapid HIV home test not only helps identify high-risk partners but also decreases gay men’s risk of contracting HIV. The study, conducted by researchers at the HIV Center at Columbia Psychiatry and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, is the second phase of a two-part research project. In the first phase, researchers assessed participants’ willingness to use the home test to screen sexual partners. In this the study’s second phase, reported in the journal AIDS and Behavior, men were provided with the actual test kits and allowed to use them with partners over a three-month period. The tests, which utilize an oral swab and detect antibodies for the virus, are now in use in testing clinics throughout the country. It is similar to a test recently FDA-approved for public use and with an anticipated release date of October 2012. Twenty-seven participants, who identified as gay and ranging in age from 18 to 58, completed the study. They

reported having multiple male partners and habitual high-risk sexual practices. Most men found that their partners were willing to use the test before having sex. Ten tested individuals received HIV-antibody positive results. Seven were potential sexual partners, and three were acquaintances of the participants; six of the ten were unaware of their status. No sexual intercourse took place after positive tests. Other participants reported that upon proposing use of the HIV home test to their partners, those individuals disclosed that they were HIV-positive, thereby suggesting that the availability of the rapid-result home test could effectively screen sexual partners. The idea of bypassing medical professionals and testing for HIV in private—much as women can now do with over-the-counter pregnancy tests—is likely to stir a vigorous debate about possible advantages and disadvantages. The tests do not detect those in the initial, acute stage of infection that lasts for a few weeks, so a negative result could be misleading. Yet, “for men who are already having a high level of unprotected intercourse with multiple partners, access to a rapid HIV test that can be performed at home may prove to be a valuable harm-reduction tool,” said Alex Carballo-Diéguez, PhD, a clinical psychologist and the principal investigator. The applications of this study go beyond the gay male community. Availability of an HIV home test is also relevant for heterosexual individuals who engage in risky sexual behavior. Visit hivcenternyc.org for info. This research was supported by a NIMH grant (R01-MH079692; PI, Alex CarballoDiéguez, Ph.D.) and a NIMH center grant (P30MH43520; PI: Anke A. Ehrhardt, Ph.D.).

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

Movie Review: Total Recall

t has been more than two decades since the science fiction thriller Total Recall delighted audiences. Based on the Philip K. Dick story, “We Can Remember It for You Wholesale,” we now have Colin Farrell stepping into Arnold Schwarzenegger’s shoes. This remake is helmed by Director Len Wiseman who does an outstanding job at breathing new life into the storyline. Farrell plays factory worker Douglas Quaid who has a gorgeous wife played by Kate Beckinsale and an average job making synthetic law enforcement officers (robots). He has been having these dreams that he can’t explain, but has this feeling that something is just not right. After getting turned down for a promotion at work, he decides he needs a break from reality, so he goes to Rekall, a place where people can live out their fantasies. With the help of this drug, a person can have memories implanted in them living the life or desire they have always wanted. Quaid chooses to become a secret agent and that is when the procedure goes horribly wrong. Soon Quaid is on the run for his life as his world gets turned upside down. Nothing he knows of his past is true and deciphering what is real and what is an elaborate hoax becomes increasingly difficult. He teams up with a resistance fighter played by Jessica Biel, a woman from his dreams. They have to try and find the head of the underground resistance, played by Bill Nighy, before Chancellor Cohaagen finds them. Bryan Cranston does a great job as power hungry leader of the free world who will stop at nothing to take over the entire planet. But it is Beckinsale who steals this film, as she steps into the role played by Sharon Stone. She takes the role of Farrell’s double agent wife and owns every scene she is in. Her kick ass attitude peppered with sprinklings of humor gives just the right mixture of action and camp. She also has the best lines especially when she is fighting her husband. The special effects are dazzling as you are taken for a non-stop action thrill ride. Wiseman knows how to keep the excitement going throughout the entire film in his edge of your seat chases and fight sequences. Unlike the first film, the entire storyline takes place on Earth that is now split into two livable areas, the United Federation of Britain and The Colony. Even though I enjoyed the first

film tremendously, this version is an exceptional remake. I definitely recommend this movie, not just because of the adrenaline rush; but it actually has a clever storyline with more than one dimensional characters. And I might add that Mr. Farrell is looking very hot these days. He is still one sexy piece of maleness. With him strutting around shirtless, this movie will get your heart racing one way or another.

Go Renegade

here is a new social group in town called the Renegade Bears of Louisiana, I know an awesome name. Since they are in their infancy, I thought it would be helpful to find out a little bit more about them. The Renegade Bears of Louisiana is a non -profit, social organization created on July 15, 2012. The organization’s name and logo are registered, and trademarked with the state of Louisiana.

Beach Blanket Bingo Is Back!

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is presenting another Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo, but this time it celebrates the glory days of all those campy beach movies. Welcome to Beach Blanket Bingo Satyricon Style and this is sure to be nothing like you have ever seen before. The date of this rollicking night of frivolity is Friday, August 24 at JohnPaul’s located at 940 Elysian Fields. This performance is a mashup between a game show and audience participation theatre. The quick witted, laugh riot Todd Shaffer stars in the raunchiest adult game show in the state. There will be lots of fabulous prize give-aways with a special gift for the winner of our blackout last game. There is a $10 donation at the door and all proceeds benefit the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon. This definitely ain’t your mama’s bingo. For more information, call 504.415.6476.

Are You Priscilla: Queen of the Dessert?

essert will never be a drag again. Actually, it sort of will because on Sunday, August 19 the Krewe of Petronius presents Petronius: Queen of Desserts at Oz. This cake auction and drag show is just the ticket for a sweet afternoon. There will be other exciting happenings as the “ladies” of Petronius strut their muffins, cakes and pies on the catwalk. They will also be raffling off two tickets to Oz for Southern Decadence weekend. The event is from 3pm-5pm. Oz is located at 800 Bourbon Street. For more information, go to www.kreweofpetronius.org.

Good-bye to a Lovely Lady

Their dues are $20 a year. Unlike other clubs, they do not have officers, but are more interested in friendship and communication. The goal is to create a light-hearted social atmosphere based on friendship, loyalty, and mutual respect. They want to create a circle of friends interested in movies, dinner, social events near and far, and giving back to our diverse community. Fundraising, and mutual cooperation with all of the various clubs and krewes in the area is also something they are very much looking forward to. Their events will be posted on Facebook and on our website which is currently under construction. They can also be reached at renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com.

ou may have read in several of my columns about my exploits with a dear friend Christine Breaux, aka Contessa Breaux. I just co-chaired the huge national conference for the National Association of Catering and Events with her. We have been close for years, as well as her mom, Sandy, who was a vivacious lady who was a great supporter of the gay community. Recently Sandy lost her battle with cancer, but she leaves behind a world with so many lives made better because she touched them. I am not sure who the author is who sent me this most extraordinary piece about this great woman but I would like to share it with you. Sandra Sue Davis (Seay) passed away quietly at 4am, July 30, 2012, in Houston, Texas after valiantly battling liver cancer over the past year. She leaves behind a daughter (Christine Breaux), a son (Steve Guthrie), her

beloved pets (Trey and Kit), and many “adopted” kids, family and friends who loved her dearly. Anyone who ever met Sandy would probably tell you that she had a big heart, scholarly intelligence in almost any area, strength and physical fortitude beyond her tall, thin frame, an amazing sense of style (that was also affordable and matched only by her charm, an incredible personal history, a wicked since of humor, and an opinion for any occasion). They would also say that she always had a smile and a laugh to brighten your day. Sandy was without a doubt a phenomenon that rarely comes along. She always advocated for the underdog and less fortunate. And in doing so was always honest about her faults and nonjudgmental of others and theirs. She raised two children with the drive of oxen, enabling them to do more, see more and experience more than even she thought was possible. And in their successes took pride in knowing not that she had made them who they were, but in knowing that she had given them the skills to figure it out on their own. Independence for herself and for her loved ones was especially important and from that came a creative energy that she applied not only to her beloved costuming and fashion for which she was known, but also to her acute business sense that drove her to success professionally. Ever the “fixer” her colleagues, family and friends all knew that if there was a way, Sandy could identify, schedule and manage it with great aplomb, precision and success. She turned many a company around in her time using simple organizational skills, an attitude that allowed everyone to be winners and drive that made Donald Trump look like a school boy. She was a kid at heart, playful to the very end. It was that carefree nature that allowed her to connect with so many people along the way, but in particular the many students that passed through her properties and under her watchful eye in Bryan/College Station, Corpus Christi and New Orleans. She was the mold by which all den mothers should be modeled. She often said, “Don’t tell your students what they need to know, question them as to why they think the way and act the way they do. In their reflection they can learn from their own experiences.” It was such a simple idea, but one that explained so much about her and her philosophy of life. She was a shared mother with so many, indeed. She offered life, love and finance advice to her ‘kids’, even going so far as to buy supplies or furniture for them, finding jobs for them, helping to create budgets, loaning or giving money and walking them through how to navigate life in general. Many of [continued on 14]

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under the gaydar ...from 12 them could tell a story, or two or three of bending her ear over a beverage (White Russians to be sure) or food into the wee hours. And most, if not all, would say that they always came away knowing how to do the right thing and feeling better. Her life cut short, cancer was the only challenge that she couldn’t beat. But it was not without a stellar battle that she faced dead on. And in doing so, she taught so many lessons about how to confront a deadly beast with grace, dignity and yes, a sense of humor. Sandy was loved by all and will be greatly missed. Her generous soul will live on in others who have learned to give those in need. Per her wishes, a memorial will be planned for the St. Ann’s Parade in New Orleans, during Mardi Gras 2013. We should all be so blessed as to have a life like Sandy Davis and such kind words written about us. Rest in peace my dear.

Louisiana Children's Museum hosts 14TH CHAIRish the Children

ne of our greatest venues for young and old alike is celebrating their 25th anniversary and it is a fundraiser not to be missed. The Louisiana Children’s Museum has been a place I have taken my little cousins to for years, as well as a magical location to hold an event, so I wanted to give you some information on supporting this worthy facility. For more than 25 years, parents have enjoyed taking their children to the Louisiana Children’s Museum, and on Saturday, August 25, the museum will open its big blue doors to adults for CHAIRish the Children, presented by Capital One Bank. The event will take place at 8pm inside the museum where guests can enjoy the nostalgia of being kids again in a grown-up setting. A patron party will precede the event at 7pm. The main attraction of this festive fundraiser, and from which the event earned its name, is the grand display of one-of-a-kind, hand-painted chairs from artists and organizations around the city, including Chet Pourciau Design, Lizano’s Glass Haus, Matthew Holdren Woodworking, Karoline Schleh, Stephanie Osborne, and many more. The beautifully designed chairs, as well as artwork, jewelry, travel packages and other exciting items, will be available for purchase during the event through live and silent auctions. In addition to the auction, guests can enjoy delicious food and beverages, live entertainment and all of the museum’s whimsical exhibits during the event. More than 20 gourmet restaurants, including Galatoire’s, Ralph’s on the Park, Acme Oyster House, Cre-

ole Creamery and Louisiana Sisters, will provide delicious samplings of their cuisines and premium cocktails for attendees to indulge. Refreshments will be provided by Republic National Distributing Company and Cordina Frozen Beverages. Guests in attendance at the patron party will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive, patron-only silent auction, cuisine by Chef David Slater of Emeril’s, and signature cocktails provided by Cupcake Vodka. In addition to bidding on the many auction items, guests can purchase a raffle ticket for $5 for the chance to win a $1,500 Lee Michaels shopping spree. With the purchase of four raffle tickets for $20, guests receive a blinking champagne glass to commemorate the event. Individual tickets to CHAIRish the Children are available for $50 for museum members and $75 for non-members. Patron party tickets start at $150 each. For tickets, more information, or to become a sponsor, please visit www.lcm.org or call 504.266.2415. The Children’s Museum is located at 420 Julia Street in the Warehouse District.

Ambush on the Road

he saying that everything is bigger in Texas is not an understatement; and that is most definitely true about Dallas. I was just in D Town at a conference for the International Society of Event Specialists (ISES) and all I have to say is this city is big, bodacious and brimming with hot men. I arrived on Thursday and checked into the Fairmont Dallas, which is one of the premier properties in the city, as well as being the host hotel for the convention. Originally opened in 1969, The Fairmont Dallas became the luxury Dallas destination overnight, a dramatic addition to the Dallas Skyline and was dubbed the city’s finest hotel. Since its inception, the Fairmont Dallas, Texas hotel has hosted many of the city’s most important social, charitable, civic and business events during its forty-one year history and the famed Venetian Room has showcased many of the world’s most beloved entertainers. Their formal gala grand opening was labeled Le Bal de Dallas, the glitzy party doubled as a benefit for the Dallas Civic Opera. The Arabian Nightsthemed party was over the top, even by Dallas standards. Guests were greeted by six uniformed trumpeters and the lobby was the setting for seventy-five violinists, living exotic fish in aquarium displays, Persian dancers and a shower of golden confetti and caviar by the ton. Dinner courses were served in parade form, beginning with the soup course, led by two live gold and silver-clad baby elephants, each carrying a costumed woman tossing fake gold nuggets, pulled from cauldrons of steaming dry ice, to the party guests. Following des-

sert, the elephants reappeared, drawing a coach carrying singer Robert Goulet, who serenaded the guests. Thus began the long tradition of glamorous galas at the Fairmont Dallas. So it stands to reason that a conference of event planners should be held there. After checking into the hotel, I met up with my friend Matthew who is from Dallas and went to lunch at Stephan Pyles restaurant located literally around the corner from the hotel in the downtown Arts District. This trendy restaurant is definitely a power lunch spot, with a large crowd of businessmen, tourists and the ladies that lunch. The food and service was outstanding and the architecture fits in perfectly with the artistic neighborhood. The 160 seat restaurant is located on Ross Avenue in Southwest Plaza, which was designed by noted architect George Dahl and originally built in 1963. This noteworthy restaurant was opened In November 2005 and since then Chef Stephan Pyles has been touted as a pioneer of New American Cuisine and legendary founding father of Southwestern Cuisine. Stephan Pyles was named “Texas’ Best New Restaurant of 2006" by Texas Monthly. After lunch, I returned to the hotel to finish unpacking and went to the gym which for a hotel workout center was really extensive. The hotel’s amenities and special features were numerous. That night the welcome reception was held at the world renowned Gilley’s Dallas, famous for the Urban Cowboy movie and namesake of country music legend Mickey Gilley. We arrived by private charter busses to this expansive venue space. Greeting us at the door were cowboys atop of horses doing lasso tricks and cowgirls seated on long horn steers as photo opps. Once inside, it was like a country and western playground. There was a live band playing country and dance hits, while armadillo races were being held in the center paddock of the bar. There were also interactive western games like bull chip shuffleboard and my favorite the quick draw duel with real guns. Two people stand on opposite sides of this thick plexiglass and draw their pistols at each other, the person with the fastest time wins, in essence killing their opponent, ala wild west. So it was slightly unnerving when my friend Nick really wanted to go play against me. They spend the first few minutes talking about gun safety which is weird since you will shoot at someone shortly. I am not sure, but I think the first rule of gun safety is not to shoot it at anyone. Then you practice a few times, again a little scary since I was having lots of trouble unholstering the damn thing. But when it came down to the actual shooting with loud blanks filled with small amounts of gunpowder (which sounded like a real gun going off), I ended up

beating Nick by 1/8th of a second. Other fun things we participated in were the mechanical bull and the lassoing of mechanical calves. Lookout Lords of Leather, I have a new skill, I can take down a large beast and have him tied up in less than two minutes. When the party was over, we took the bus back to the hotel where they had a late night dance party set up for the attendees called Club ISES. What I love about this conference is that you get to see all the new ideas in event technology and the DJ set-up with the clear digital computer screen set-up was way cool. Everything is controlled on a flat screen that the DJ sees as well as the people on the dance floor. After dancing to the wee hours of the morning, well 2am. which is tame by our standards, I crashed. On Friday, I did one of my favorite activities and something Dallas is known for, shopping! I took a renovated trolley car that has been recently restored into commission to the West Village area. Several old stylized trolley cars have been brought online and a downtown track has been laid linking the West Village (a shopping and entertainment area) with the downtown arts district. It is free to ride and a nostalgic trip back in time. The history of each car is inside with advertisements from the days they were in service. What was so great about the line is that it started only a block away from my hotel. The West Village and all points leading there is a plethora of restaurants, bars, clubs and great shopping. The main shopping area has many of your usual name brand stores along with some funky local shops, like Cowboy Cool. I spent way too much and walked along the quaint streets before deciding on lunch at Taco Diner, a fun homegrown chain that was very clean and open, and a popular spot with locals. With six locations in Dallas, Taco Diner was conceived in 1998 by the M Crowd restaurant group as their second Mexican food concept, focusing on the bold flavors found in traditional Mexico City taquerias. With an emphasis on fresh fish, salads and classic tacos, Taco Diner presents a lighter approach to Mexican cooking in a fun, high-energy atmosphere. Returning back to the hotel, I went to the gym; then met up with a group of guys for quick dinner and drinks before the party that evening. The wonderful Terry and Matthew from Dallas were our hosts for the evening showing around the city including the gay area of Oaklawn before bringing us to Private Social, a very chic restaurant lounge for some nibbles and champagne. The atmosphere was electric with lots of people enjoying themselves and a jazz musician playing in the background. When we were finished [continued on 15]

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under the gaydar ...from 14 with our nosh, we went to the Search Foundation Party at The Venue. This party was incredible, we were greeted by male models at the door handing us wine popsicles; then we entered a room that was completely draped white from the walls to the furniture. There were Bombay Gin specialty cocktails and a remarkable duo playing a guitar and harp, which were synthesized allowing them to perform rock music. The effect of the music with the décor in the room along with the very pretty staff was sensual. After a half hour, a group of white laced dancers performed a number with a lead singer dressed the same, and led us to the second half of the party. We walked into a larger room with food, a silent auction, more cocktails and artists painting around you. The theme of the night was focused on all sorts of art. Then there was a fashion show by four Dallas designers to cap off the night. When the party concluded, our local hosts brought our group to the gay strip. I knew that Dallas was a gigantic city, but god did I feel like a country bumpkin when I went to their gay part. It was a huge, bustling street filled with bars, restaurants and shops. The crowds looked like it was a mall on the day after Thanksgiving. I had never experienced so many people in one specific area outside of Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. Cedar Springs is definitely the street where most of the action is. The gay bars located here are J.R.’s Bar and Grill, Kaliente Club, Mickey’s, Round Up Saloon, Station 4 and Sue Ellen’s. We began our night at the Round Up Saloon which is this vast club with a large dance floor in the center and rooms shooting off the main area. It was crowded both on and off the dance floor and the bartenders were bustling. We drank, met some cute locals and danced a little. My

favorite bartender of choice is this handsome cowboy with bedroom eyes named Jordan. After twirling at Round Up, we hopped in the car and ventured to a place called BJ’s a few blocks away. Let’s just say the name says it all, it is a cocktail club with some of the hottest male bar staff and exotic dancers. Calling this place a strip club is not doing it justice, these guys

performing on the poles, in cages, on pedestals, were not go go boys they were acrobats, doing somersaults, hanging from their legs upside down [continued 22]

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Krewe of Petronius’ Dragging With The Stars @ Michael’s On The Park ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin

paparazzi

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Lords of Leather Luau @ Lion’s Inn ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

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Yaisha Bubblez Alexander in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Michael’s On The Park’s Cookie St. Ann in Oh What A Drag XX @ Bourbon Pub

SDGMs 38 TJ, Pat & entourage @ Good Friends SDGM fundraiser

Oh What A Drag XX @ Bourbon Pub Parade Cha Cha & Miles sling cocktails for Good Friends SDGM fundraiser

Bartender of the Year Andy Ehlers with Divas R Us guest Violet S’Arbleu @ the Lantern

SDGM Pat joins Salon D’Malta’s Monica @ Cutter’s SDGM fundraiser

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SDGMs 38 Pat, 1 Frederick & 33 Regina @ SDGM Cutter’s fundraiser

Ninth Circle’s DL Broadway in Oh What A Drag XX Jasmine Essex performs for the Bourbon Pub’s Jungle Party

Big Easy Sisters’ Michael Norris & SDGM 38 Pat McArdle @ JohnPaul’s SDGM fundraiser

Jamie Lyn Andrews, Jasmine Essex & Queen of the Night Roxxi @ Oh What A Drag XX SDGMs 38 TJ & 1 Frederick @ Cutter’s SDGM fundraiser

Julie Squires in Trois Femmes @ JohnPaul’s

The girls & SDGM Madame TJ help raise over $800 @ 700 Club

Southern Decadence Susan Lucci's Rip & Marsha with SDGMs Pat, Regina & TJ @ Cutter’s

JohnPaul’s SDGM fundrasier brings in over $1,000

Entertainer of the Year Monique Michaels in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Trois Femmes’ Josie Mae Cotton @ JohnPaul’s

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Some of the Best Entertainment ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin

In the Life of A Southern Decadence Grand Marshal benefiting Belle Reve ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin, Rip Naquin

SDGMs TJ & Pat with MC Kevin broadcast the Saints game @ Cutter’s

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Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

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under the gaydar ...from 15 and one tatted hottie even held himself straight out from the stripper pole like an Olympic athlete. But the bartenders were also top notch making specialty cocktails and martinis to perfection. The others and I had an enjoyable time playing with the boys, so much that we lost track of time and before we knew it they yelled last call (a concept that is so foreign to me). We were all delivered back to our hotels in one piece; then the parties moved to people’s private rooms. Descriptions need not apply from this point of the night on. On Saturday, I decided to get a little culture that did not incorporate body shots and g-strings. Only two blocks from my hotel are two major art lovers’ destinations. The Nasher Sculpture Center is a brilliant place to go and look at some major pieces of art and relax. Score, it was also free since it was the first Saturday of the month. Love when you stumble on things like this when out of town. Open to the public since October 20, 2003, the Nasher Sculpture Center is one of the few institutions in the world devoted to the exhibition, study, and preservation of modern sculpture. Conceived as a serene urban retreat for the enjoyment of modern art, the Sculpture Center is the new home of the renowned Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection of modern and contemporary sculpture. The collection – which numbers more than three hundred sculptures together with twentieth-century paintings and drawings – rotate in thematic installations throughout the Center’s seamless blend of indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces: an elegant, light-filled 55,000 foot building designed by Renzo Piano and a spacious garden created by Peter Walker. My favorite piece was Cuddle on the Tightrope by Ernesto Neto. Born in Brazil in 1964, artist Ernesto Neto has gained acclaim for his large experiential environments that dramatically alter our surroundings, engage the senses, and invite interaction. Organic, womblike, and elemental, Neto’s installations draw on the lessons of minimalist sculpture, Brazilian New Objectivity of the 1960s and 70s, and the anthropomorphic architecture of Antoni Gaudí to remove the visitor from the assault and grind of the everyday world and provide an opportunity to slow down and reconnect for a few moments with essential sensory experiences. The work made for the exhibition at the Nasher Sculpture Center, Kink, continues Neto’s recent explorations of elevated environments and crochet, but for the first time the artist has added the complex new element of a freestanding, interwoven framework of metal structural supports. Passageways of crocheted rope transport visitors up into the space above the gallery floor, changing their perspective and

relation to gravity, and nestling them in an aerie of polypropylene balls and crocheted rope. Initially taught to crochet by his grandmother and great aunt in 1994, Neto did not put the skill to use in his art until many years later. The artist now relies on a team of assistants to produce the enormous crocheted installations of recent years. Like many of the artist’s environments, the experience of Kink is meant to be both individual and communal. In order to preserve the shared intimacy of the encounter, only five people are allowed into the structure at a time. The garden was exquisite and peaceful, I decided to have lunch there, and surprisingly for a museum café, the food was delicious. After Nasher, I walked across the street to the Dallas Museum of Art which has to be one of the best museums in the country. It is a massive complex with major works of art. I have several favorite collections; the Ancient Mediterranean Art has excellent works covering the major eras of ancient Mediterranean history, from c. 3000 B.C. to the fall of the Roman Empire. The Wendy and Emery Reeves collection is just breathtaking. The museum has reconstructed their villa with almost all the artwork intact inside the museum. This was the villa once owned by Coco Chanel. It was easy to spend a few hours getting lost on the art, but I had to return back to the hotel to get ready for the final night gala. The party was held in the hotel and was a black tie optional soiree, which featured a cocktail reception, three course dinner, awards ceremony and dessert after party with a live dance band and DJ. This six hour marathon was over the top. I sat with some of my NOLA friends and enjoyed the camaraderie of being with other people in my own industry. I was even up for two awards, and won one. I cannot tell people what a rush it is to hear your name called and go receive, as Ricky Graham calls it, a prize. I partied and danced the night away and then when all the bars closed, several of my friends had some liquor so we went to my room to continue the festivities. It was all fun and games until security showed up. Funny story, I opened my room door to walk a guest out and there were two good looking men there to greet me. So naturally I invited them in for cocktails, until I found out that unlike Gretchen Wilson they were not here for the party but to shut us down. It has been years since a party of mine has been closed because of security, but I have to admit, it felt kind of awesome. On Sunday, I flew out early having had a memorable experience in the Big D. I want to also thank my good friend Nick who was very instrumental in helping me come on this trip. All I have to say, if you have not been to Dallas, cowboy up and hightail it over there, there are many adventures wait-

ing for you.

Party Down

his last two weeks has been a complete whirlwind, so let’s begin on Wednesday with the opening party of Tales of the Cocktail at Contemporary Arts Center. Absolut was the sponsor liquor as guests were treated to a winter wonderland reminiscent of Sweden. Faux snow fell from the ceiling as guests sipped on vodka libations of every style. There were chalets set up with bars, oversized bare trees painted white and even an area where you can have your own custom tee shirt made. The newest technology for making cocktails was there including liquid nitrogen libations. A dance band kept the grooves moving as guests drank and dined on Swedish delights. After we had our fill, we were whisked off by bus to the New Orleans Museum of Art for William Grant and Sons sponsored 10th Birthday Party for Tales. While more drinks flowed, we hung out with some incredible liquor reps and mixologists from around the world. What a spectacular way for Tales to kick off their conference. The interesting part of the night, not one of the large group of people I went with, remember how we all got home. Oh, well I woke up in my own bed, so all was good. The following day, I went to one of the Spirited Dinners for Tales of the Cocktail at Root, located in the Warehouse District. This unbelievable dinner consisted of seven courses pared with a different cocktail. The thought that went into the preparation of each dish and drink was planned out to the last detail form the sugar beet dessert to the frozen marshmallow salad. After an incredible dinner with several friends, my friend Laura and I broke off and attended a late night party at One Eyed Jacks hosted by Employees Only, one of the hottest bars in New York. This party brought sexy to a new level. I felt like I was in a movie, the atmosphere was perfect from the music and people dancing to the bartenders making drinks. Shakers were flipping through the air, they had sultry dancers on pedestals, shots were flowing while everyone was swaying to the music. Another stellar night and we are only on day two. On Friday, I began my evening by attending a fundraiser for Southern Decadence at JohnPaul’s. There was a nice crowd and they had an entertaining lineup. Both TJ and Pat are doing a phenomenal job as grand marshals this year and you can feel the excitement in the air as the big weekend draws near. After the fundraiser which brought in over $1,000, I ducked out to attend the Barroom Brawl put on by Tales of the Cocktail at Generations Hall. Six bars from around the world participate in making drinks where the guests sample and vote for their favor-

ites. Their star bartender takes the stage to make their signature cocktail for a panel of distinguished judges. Employees Only won top prize as the judges favorite (and mine) and Baretta of San Francisco won the People’s Choice Prize. Fully sated with cocktails, I ended my night at Oz hanging with Frankie Fierce, Dusty DeBris and their entourage til the wee hours of the morning. Saturday my liver was moaning, but like a trooper I persevered. My friend Beaux and I spent the day at Tales of the Cocktail at the tasting rooms at the Hotel Monteleone, Royal Sonesta and the penthouse of the Ritz Carlton. Wow, I thought I was a pro at drinking, but these people make me look like an amateur. Picture these rooms open all day serving numerous libations of every liquor and style. It was heaven. After a well-deserved disco nap, I was one of the contestants in Petronius’ Dragging With the Stars that night. Like last year, it was a dragaganza, and thanks to Dusty DeBris for being my star and making me up. She is one talented person and helped me come in first place behind winner Brad from the krewe. After changing, an entire group of us went out to Metairie to one of the best house parties I have been to in a long time. Ryan and his partner Dustin threw an awesome Eighties event that people are still talking about.

Ryan & Dustin @ their Awesome Eighties House Party Extravaganza They had it all, themed décor, video games from the eighties, a video dance floor, free flowing cocktails and plenty of hot men to go around. Costumes were encouraged and 90% dressed, which was another reason for the successful party. This was another evening that went until sunrise the next day. Rolling out of bed on Sunday morning, I had to scramble because I had an impromptu going away party for my friend Jeff Mallon, aka Elizabeth Bouvier, who is moving to Austin. I laid out a scrumptious brunch spread for guests as they sipped champagne, bloody [continued on 24]

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trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com big-time lothario all the more ironic. Despite being under the weather when I saw the show, Johnson sang with a nice, confident tenor voice; I trust for C Baxter and Fran Kubelik the final weekend he’ll be full-throated may be two of the most again. Gambino is not afraid to submerge unlikely musical comedy leads ever created. At the start of Prom- her natural attractiveness to make Fran ises, Promises, he’s a low level em- a little frumpled—clothes slightly ployee at an insurance company and creased, not every hair in place, and she works in the firm’s cafeteria. She more likely to slouch than stand up barely notices him while he daydreams straight—thus becoming the vulnerable waif that Fran is. Gambino sings that she does. Yet as the leads in Cutting Edge not with a powerful, belting voice but Theater’s revival of this Neil Simon/ hers is full of warmth and draws you to Burt Bacharach/Hal David Broadway her, a perfect match for her winsome hit, the first time it’s been seen locally in character. And she is never more adorover 15 years, Larry Johnson and Annie able than when she has the hiccups. With its 1960s corporate setting, Gambino are a winning combination who not only seem made for each Promises, Promises seems to have a other but give the show a glowing certain cachet again, a beneficiary no doubt of Mad Men’s stratospheric succharm. cess, which likely lead to the Sean Hayes/Kristin Chenoweth (no vulnerable waif she) Broadway revival, its first, two years ago. Simon’s book still holds up, expertly mixing comedy with the morally provocative aspects of Wilder’s brilliant film script. With the exception of I’ll Never Fall in Love Again, however, the once-lauded Bacharach/ Larry Johnson & Annie Gambino David score doesn’t ofin Promises, Promises fer anything memorable Based on Billy Wilder’s Oscar-win- (the NYTimes’ Ben Brantley described ning film The Apartment, Promises, it as having “taken on the synthetic Promises charts Baxter’s rise on the whiff of elevator music”) and Cutting corporate ladder after he loans his Edge has followed the revival’s lead of Upper West Side one bedroom apart- interpolating such other Bacharach/ ment (renting for $86.50 a month— David hits as Say a Little Prayer and A how times have changed!) to an exec House Is Not a Home into the evening. for what he thinks is a one-time tryst. They help but don’t fully counterbalWord gets around and he soon finds ance the score’s blandness despite a himself spending more time out of his fine account of it from Musical Director apartment than in it as three other Angel Carter’s band. One wonders what execs also avail themselves of this Kander & Ebb or Cy Coleman would have done with this material. precious bit of real estate. Director Sara Pagones strikes the Baxter is often described as ambitious. He is, but he’s more the victim of right balance between the tale’s lighter circumstances than a cagey operator. and darker aspects making the execs After all, it’s hard to say “No” to your convincingly conniving but also somebosses; ultimately, the President of the what pathetic. With multiple scene company, who’s involved with, yup, you changes, however, Promises is not an guessed it, Fran, becomes the sole easy show to do, particularly in a byday hair salon, and some of the techniuser of Baxter’s apartment. Unlike his slyly passionate Che cal aspects of the production, including two years ago in Slidell Little Theatre’s lighting cues, could have been sharper. Though not much of a singer, as Evita, in Promises, Promises Johnson is self-effacingly decent and Consolidated Life’s President, Jim the opposite of a ladies’ man, making Pagones finds the right balance behis neighbor’s assumption that he is a tween looking out for the company and

Promises, Promises at Cutting Edge Theater through August 18

looking out for himself, allowing a certain amount of ambiguity (will he or won’t he leave his wife?) into his avowals of love for Fran. Kirk Benson and, especially, Ken Starling stand out as two of the oiliest of the execs who are all very funny in their big number Where Can You Take a Girl? Paul Page brings humanity and wry comic timingto Baxter’s doctor neighbor, the one wholly decent person in the show. And Katie Cotoya injects shrewd hilarity into her one scene as an inebriated barfly trying to hook up with Baxter—wish we got to see more of her! Though a little rough around the

edges, as is to be expected from a community theater production of a challenging show, Cutting Edge’s Promises, Promises has abundant appeal. And the full house I saw it with clearly felt it lived up to its promises.

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parties affords guests the opportunity to become better acquainted with new people, spend more quality time with close friends and enjoy themselves in a more relaxed setting. Having parties also allows you to explore your creative side, which is my favorite part of hosting an event. I am always looking for festive and unusual touches to add a small wow factor. Even something as simple as movie nights with friends can be made special but serving different flavored popcorn such as truffle oil and parmesan cheese or cinnamon and drizzled caramel or serving cocktails in those plastic square popcorn boxes with straws. One of my favorite things to do is host my own wine tasting, where every guest brings one of their favorite bottles of wine with a different cheese. You spend the evening trying new wines and cheeses. Easy and the onus of the cost is not on the host. As you read in my Party Down column, I just went to an incredible costumed house party. Themed events are always enjoyable and it gets the guests involved. From murder mystery nights to toga parties with a twist, these types of gatherings are always hits. Create your own Bastille Day celebration with dessert wines and sweet libations, where guests come as the royal court. Do a October Fest party where the guests brings a different type of imported beer. In this city, we do not need an excuse to dress in costume, so have fun with this. Dinner parties are also on the rise, weekly or monthly get togethers can also be themed especially around the menus. Like all dishes during the season you can have Creole tomatoes or Vidalia onions. You can do a Halloween inspired dinner or a red, white and blue cookout on the 4th of July. Hell, you can even host a special menu for National Cheesecake Day with both sweet and savory ones. So whether it is a big blowout or a small crowd, bring a new punch into the mix and see how much more pleasurable the experience will be. If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.

marys, wine and vodka drinks. We had a nice gathering to bid adieu to our friend. Once the crowd dispersed, Jeff and I went to the Lords of Leather pool party at the Lion’s Inn for a quick visit, then more cocktailing at the Friendly Bar. I took off after that to meet up with friends at Albert Carey’s well-appointed condo for a Sunday dinner party. Albert is the ultimate host having a tasty supper mixed with fascinating company. On my way home, I stopped for a nightcap at JohnPaul’s and met up once again with Jeff and now Chris Arthur, aka Barbara Ella, who has moved back to the city. Since the ladies about town were back together once again, I stayed out way to late wreaking havoc. But it was well worth it. The following week, On Wednesday I went to a NACE wine dinner at Le Meritage in the Maison Dupuy which turned into a night out on the town. I always like when business drinking turns into a party night. The following day I flew to Dallas which you have read about already. So prepare yourself because another holiday is on its way. Something decadent this way comes.

Tony’s Tidbits of Wisdom

ust like the old saying every thing old is new again, that applies for trends. Retro is in from television shows like Mad Men to clothing. There is one thing also returning on the party scene and I am thrilled. Entertaining at home is coming back in fashion. Even though many people may beg to differ, parties in people’s homes have been on the decline over the past few years. Over the last two weeks, I not only held a party at my home, but went to an intimate dinner party at someone’s house and an amazing throw down house party that would put some circuit parties to shame. Having guests at your home or going to someone else’s place brings a more intimate setting to your event. Even if it is a large fete, house/dinner

STRUT! at House of Blues on September 1

s though there’s not enough to do during Southern Decadence, STRUT! will be at House of Blues for two performances on Saturday, Sept. 1. For those of you, [continued on 33]

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baton rouge

KD, Chansley & Jeremy - George’s Pride 1 Workers Best Happy Hour

Pride 1 Gay Games Entertainer of the Year nominee Mia Bonet performing @ Pride 1 Awards

Pride 1 President Quentin Little & Vice President Miranda Mann

Chansley Dykes - Baton Rouge’s Lesbian of the Year

Family Game Night at George’s Place (BJ) Pride 1 Awards host Persana Shoulders

Guy, recipient of Pride 1’s “1 Award” and his partner Richard

Avalon Day Spa - Pride 1 Salon of the Year Cabbage Ball @ Gay Games KD & Pride 1 Fruit Fly of the Year Heather H.

Nicole Foxx - Pride 1 Entertainer of the Year & Bartender of the Year

Nicole Foxx performing at Splash’s Pride Party Splash’s Blue Party decorations

Entertainer of the Year Nominee Jocelyn Royale performing @ Pride 1 Awards

Krewe of Apollo wins Pride 1 Event of the Year & Redder Nonprofit Award winner

Jonathan Lamonte Pride 1 Gay Man of the Year & Quentin Little Pride 1 DJ of the Year

Ernest O. for BR Little Theatre Pride 1 Performing Arts Award

Alexa Milano performing for Gaga For Pride @ George’s Place

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Baton Rouge Pride & Baton Rouge Pride 1 Awards ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Splash

papar azzi

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CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

500 TOULOUSE

600

RAMPART

ST. LOUIS

BURGUNDY

400

DAUPHINE

ROYAL

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300

classifieds

ESPLANADE

1800 19 FR M A R IG N Y

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

EL YS IA N

EN 2 0 0 0 C 2 1 HM E 00 N

FI EL D S RT PA M A R

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

antiques 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] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM

Houma LA [985] THE DRAMA CLUB, 126 N. Hollywood, 580.2582 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 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 NINTH CIRCLE, 700 N. Rampart, 252.4558 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 VOODOO BAR, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0953 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Bay St. Louis, MS [228] CLUB RED, 317 Reese St.,, 467.5920, ClubRedBSL.COM Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271

book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 MR. BINKY'S NEW ORLEANS, 2441 Paris Rd., 270.9900

chiropractic Chalmette, LA [504] SIMPLY PRECISE CHIROPRACTIC, Dr. Domingo De Los Reyes D.C., 9135 West Judge Perez, Suite B, 504.302.1718, SimplyPreciseChiropractic.COM [is213] New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is1612]

circuit/events Aug. 29-Sept. 3, 41st 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. 25-28, Halloween 29, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 28, 2012-Jan. 1, 2013, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 8-12, 2013, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013, 14th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 24-27, 2013 Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM

counseling Lafayette, LA [337] COUNSELING/THERAPY, James Huval, MSW, LCSW - Psychotherapy for individuals and couples/sliding scale. Lafayette office location. Accepting new clients. Day/evening appointment times available/For more information: www.HuvalMSW.COM or 337.356.1343

employment New Orleans, LA [504] HELP WANTED - Cashier/backup needed at Club New Orleans. Drug test required. Submit application at 515 Toulouse St.

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

galleries New Orleans, LA [504] BLISS McCALL STUDIO, by appointment, 631 Elysian Fields Ave., 391.9131, BlissMcCall.COM DIETY ARTS OF THE EXTREME ORIENT, 830 N. Rampart, DietyNOLA.COM TANNER ORIGINAL ART, 830 Royal St., 524.8266, HauntingArt.COM

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] 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

hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465

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. [0712] 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. [0812] THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST

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HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 877-681-5087 frenchquarterguesthouses.com. Email: info@stpeterhouse.com. Four meticulously restored boutique Inns located in the heart of the French Quarter’s most popular LGBT neighborhood. Each building’s individual character and charm provides an unforgettably authentic French Quarter experience! FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253,FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. Email 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. Beautiful and spacious townhomes available to accommodate groups of any size adjacent to the hotel. Just 3 short blocks from Bourbon St, with free Wi-Fi and complimentary continental breakfast and access to two beautiful pools. Covered off street parking available. MAISON DE MACARTY BED & BREAKFAST, 3820 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.267.1564, MaisonMacarty.COM, E-mail us at kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensuite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty. Book it now! 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. [0113] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, “Spectacular, very unusual piece of property” with balconies of varying design ringing the courtyard. Circa 1880 Historic New Orleans Home lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms. Just steps away from Armstrong park, Bourbon St, and most of the popular gay clubs, bars, and restaurants. With two pools, free WiFi and complimentary continental breakfast. Secured off street parking available. 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 [is2612]

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

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

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile,

AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife 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 BIG EASY STOMPERS, 1317 Pasadena Ave., Metairie, LA 70001 www.NewOrleansHoedown.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 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. 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, 1001 South Broad St., Suite 115, New Orleans, LA 70125, 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, 2443 Halsey Ave., New Orleans, LA 70114, 504.906.7990 Todd J. Blauvelt / Secretary, krewe.of.satyricon@gmail.com, 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,

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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 NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 SOFTBALL LEAGUE – Great fun for all skill levels, beginner to advanced. Visit nolasoftball.com for full details and find us on Facebook. ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org 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] 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] DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455

pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] & Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA DRUGS SPECIALIZED PHARMACY, free discrete delivery serving Louisiana, Mississippi & Texas. Certified pharmacists caring for HIV/AIDS, new-to-market & hard-to-find medications including Serostim. Local pharmacy that supports the LGBT community. www.AvitaDrugs.COM. 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

real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] Gay-Owned Agency — New Orleans Relocation LLC, Mark Boline, Realtor/Broker, mark@nolarelo.com, 504.273.0088, 1027 Touro Street, New Orleans, LA 70116. Visit NOLArelo.com to search all NOLA properties for sale. Latter & Blum INC/Realtors, STEVE RICHARDS, 712 Orleans @ Royal, French Quarter. Cell: 504.258.1800, Office: 504.529.8140, Email: SRichards@LatterBlum.com

LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM 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 Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 504.371.5074 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903 Prime Grille, 3162 Dauphine, opening soon Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 RAZZLE DAZZLE, 524 Royal St. 568.0001, RazzleDazzle.COM SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167

spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com

tattoos New Orleans, LA [504] AART ACCENT NEW ORLEANS, 1041 N. Rampart St., 581.9812

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052

travel New Orleans, LA [504] Adventures Actually, Kate Alexander, 220.5503, AdventuresActually.COM

websites OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, SouthernDecadence.COM

Nex t Am bush De a d l i n e : F r i d a y, A u g . 1 7 t h Ca l l 5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9

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reVIEW...books, movies, cds by Blanche Email: ambushreview@aol.com Photo by Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

n south Alabama as in southern Louisiana and New Orleans, the first week of August and the heat and humidity it brings usually separates the men from the boys and the women from the girls. Not so this year...it has been August for months. Indoor activities are a must. Air-conditioned movie theatres and cool bars work. Staying at home and watching the Olympics has been fun...so many nice bodies, but that is now over. What to do? How about a good book? The South is known for it’s writers. All kinds of writers. One you may or may not be familiar with is Birmingham, Alabama’s own Fannie Flagg. Her most famous novel was FRIED GREEN TOMATOES AT THE WHISTLE STOP CAFE which was made into the movie FRIED GREEN TOMATOES which won her an Academy Award nomination for best screenplay. Fannie was born Patricia Neal in 1944 in Birmingham. As a child she wrote skits and plays and joined TOWN AND GOWN THEATRE when she was 15. She has not stopped since then. She did a stint in local news, then came Allen Funt’s CANDID CAMERA. Television credits include THE NEW DICK VAN DYKE SHOW, HARPER VALLEY PTA and THE MATCH GAME. She had roles in FIVE EASY PIECES, STAY HUNGRY, GREASE, and Joan River’s RABBIT TEST. Her writing career was put on hold in the 1970s due to her being dyslexic. Finally facing her fears she started writing in the early 1980s. She says she still can’t spell but she has completed several novels and screenplays. Her first novel was COMING ATTRACTIONS in 1981. Now titled DAISY FAY AND THE MIRACLE MAN it set the tone for her writing style and subject matter. The book is divided into diary entries not chapters. It makes for a fast read, easy to pick up and put down. She uses the “vignette” style in all her books. The New York Times Book Review says “[ Fannie Flagg] is a born storyteller.” And that she is. I would call her books humorous narratives, mostly Southern, set in small towns, full of outrageous characters. Some of her characters and locations are based on real people and places but she takes “artistic license” to a new place. The stories are full of humor and sadness, adventure and mystery, the believable and well, the not so believable. Each book is full of characters and CHARACTERS... WELCOME TO THE WORLD, BABY GIRL (1998), STANDING IN

THE RAINBOW (2002), and CAN’T WAIT TO GET TO HEAVEN (2006) make up the Elmwood Springs series. Three entirely different books but with the same extended family of characters...Dena Nordstrom, an up and coming 1970’s television star, her cousins the Warrens, and her Aunt Elner. Add to these fine folk neighbor Dorothy, whose daily radio broadcast comes directly from her house, Tot Wooten, local bad beautician; Beatrice Woods, the Little Blind Songbird; Minnie Oatman, lead vocalist for the Oatman Family Gospel Singers...well you get the idea. FRIED GREEN TOMATOES AT THE WHISTLE STOP CAFE (1987) was, I think a much better book than movie. The characters were “bigger” and friendship replaced lesbianism in the movie. The Irondale Cafe outside Birmingham, the model for the Whistle Stop Cafe is still serving fried green tomatoes. A REDBIRD CHRISTMAS is, guess what, a Christmas book. Set in Lost River, Alabama, it is the tale of Oswald T. Campbell who due to health concerns moves to south Alabama for his last Christmas. Another cast of characters including the Mystic Order of the Polka Dot Secret Society. A short read and very much “not like other Christmas books. Which brings me to her latest book, I STILL DREAM ABOUT YOU (2010). Set in Birmingham, Alabama, it is the story of Maggie Fortenberry and her quest to commit suicide. Maggie is a former Miss Alabama, still beautiful as ever, but she is over it. Her mentor and boss, Hazel Whisenknott passed away five years ago. Red Mountain Reality isn’t the same without her. HER being a slightly over three foot midget. Selfpromoting since the age of ten, Hazel saw no obstacles only opportunities. Maggie’s co-workers and cast of characters include her partner Brenda Peoples who would rather go to Krispy Kreme than Weight Watchers and the ancient office manager, Ethel Clipp, a vision in head to toe purple. Red Mountain Reality is the “old line” agency in Birmingham. Add to the mix Bab’s “The Beast of Birmingham” Bingington, a new unscrupulous agent bound to put Red Mountain Realty out of business. No wonder Maggie has had it. Just one problem...everything has to be perfect. Not just making sure the gas is on before I stick my head in the oven perfect...much more than that. Bills must be paid, accounts closed, possessions disposed of, cabinets and closets emptied, money and the good

watch left in an envelope for the maid, the leased car washed and full of gas, ant traps under the sink, the taxi for the trip to the Warrior River reserved in a fake name, the list goes on. Needless to say, something always happens before the plan can be put into effect. First the Whirling Dervishes are coming to town...she must go with Brenda to see them. Then it’s one thing after another until Crestview, the grandest of houses on Red Mountain comes on the market. She “scooped” the listing from Bab’s, something she had never done before, but she had to be the agent. This is where the second

plot comes in. Crestview and it’s original owner, Angus Crocker. Then his children, Edwin and Edwina. There are trunks in the attic and the plot thickens. Fannie Flagg’s books are very good reads. They are full of Southern charm, humor, adventure, suspense. She is a great storyteller. Beauty queens are everywhere. She was actually in the Miss Alabama Pageant seven times, finally winning Miss Congeniality in number seven. She was the one time partner of Rita Mae Brown. She divides her time between California and Alabama.

a community within communities

by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org

It’s only a bed.

ll men are children, and of one family. The same tale sends them all to bed, and wakes them in the morning. --Henry David Thoreau It’s only a simple bunk bed. Rather uncomfortable to sleep in and certainly not a design statement. It’s only a bed. There are no inner spring mattresses here. This does not conform to your contour. It’s only a bed. In fact, it is a rather unlikely harbinger of faith, of giving, and of doing. It’s only a bed. The cost of a used military grade bunk bed, if one searches, is about $100. New ones cost as much as $300+ dollars. But, it’s only a bed. “Jesus said to him, ‘The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.’” Matthew 8. This quote is profound in its implications. Jesus is talking with a “rich young man” who was asking what he must do to follow Jesus. The story goes on to say that the young man would rather bury his ancestors than follow the rabbi. Yet, the implications are deep and rich and can have multiple meanings. For Jesus it could have meant that he cannot rest for the Kingdom of God was at hand. Or, it could have been a keen insight into homelessness if Jesus as “the Son of Man” was “Every man.” In this instant case it can also point toward giving rest to the weary who wander and help and rebuild and visit us, offering themselves as a living sacrifice to our poverty. We all know, but often hide from the fact, that New Orleans is one of the poorest cities in North America. We all know, and would rather not know, that we are beset by the poorest of the poor because we have warm weather and thriving pan handling trade. We know that we abound in blighted properties despite the increasing gentrification of many of our neighborhoods. We are

poor – dirt poor. We love to have musicians and artists and craft-persons. WE LOVE IT! Yet, we pay them very little for their time and talent. Ask any respectable street artist what his sketches and paintings sell for. Often it is below minimum wage; many musicians on Frenchmen St. make a less than $2.00 an hour on an off night. But we love ‘em. How do we rebuild? Perhaps the Musician’s Village, so popular after Katrina, was an answer. Perhaps Habitat for Humanity is an on-going answer. What about the good folks who tried to rebuild but were victimized by scavengers, swooping down on them and taking what little Road Home monies they had and then leaving with jobs undone or really poor workmanship? What about them? This isn’t an issue of gay or straight. It is an issue of humanity, “. . . the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Each year hundreds of people make a pilgrimage to New Orleans to help “every man” find his or her place to lay their head. It is often the little things that need doing to go unattended to or forgotten. Things just get lost in the oblivion of The City that Care Forgot. My friend, Mike McDonald, knows a lady down the street. She is ancient as the story goes and a petite little thing. She is a fragile little scrap of a woman who tends to her own business [continued on 33]

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a community ...from 32 and never asks for help because, “I don’t want to be a burden.” Despite the rains we have had some hot days; really, really hot days. It’s summer in New Orleans. Recently, Mike discovered that this fragile person had an air conditioner but she couldn’t reach the switch to turn it on. So, in those record setting days in July she sweltered in near 100 degree heat! She could have died in that oven of a house. But a switch is being installed that will allow her to turn on the air conditioner at little expense. Mike came to the rescue. Mike noticed and acted. Do you know anyone who is suffering because of an oversight? Do you know someone who needs a little help with a repair or two that was victimized? Have you looked? Yet, each year hundreds of people make a pilgrimage to New Orleans. They come to help us help others to make things right. The Dodwell House houses such folk or it will. Folk that seek to do good. Folk that look to rebuild and restore lives damaged or hurting. They paint, they re-build, they work in the summer time and winter time and they make pilgrimage to New Orleans. These volunteers give us value and dignity because our lives are worth their time. They are telling us, “You are worth my time and my concern.” Those bunks, those simple beds, are what we need to give these visitors, these volunteers, a place to lay their heads. We need about 20 bunk beds. So, if you are a mind to, consider donating a bunk bed or two. Why, you can even have your name or memorial engraved on it. This will help to complete our first phase of Dodwell House - A Community within Communities. Help us show hospitality that is real. Donations may be sent to St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, 1313 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA. 70116. If donating a bed, it’s simply a bed, is beyond what you can imagine, then imagine a

frail old lady who can’t reach her air conditioner. Keep your eyes open and let us know who we can help so that no one in our very poor, yet very wonderful city, falls between the cracks. Or if you are one of the proud who “don’t want to be a bother” you aren’t! Send us word and maybe we can help you to fix what isn’t right. For further information about Dodwell House, go to www.dodwellhouse.org.

trodding the boards ...from 24 like me, who tire of all the female burlesque troupes that have proliferated in recent years, STRUT! offers the refreshing opportunity to see the masculine side of the tease with the added dimension of tongue-in-cheek humor and stylish artistry. [continued on 34]

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STRUT! will feature the Stage Door Johnnies (Ray Gunn, Jett Adore, and Bazuka Joe), Hot Toddy, Russell Bruner, and the inimitable Mistress of Ceremonies Cora Vette. I saw this evening of R-rated naughtiness when it was called BOYLESK! last March and thoroughly enjoyed it except for the Evil Hate Monkey and his bananathrowing ways (can we say dry-cleaning? he’s talented but he’s not called evil for nothing). Fortunately, EHM will not be on the upcoming bill so you can go without worrying about your Decadence finery. Of those who will be returning, Ray Gunn, originally from Brazil from whence he gets some of his capoierainspired moves, is a commanding presence whether in his floor-length leather coat or bouncing around the stage sporting a Fauxhawk. Bazuka Joe brings a comic panache to his routines variously involving balloons & pistols and a supply of shrinking towels. Jett Adore is an ever-suave performer, never more so than in his magnificent homage to the peacock routine which won him the “Most Innovative” award at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas in 2011. Collectively, Ray, Joe and Jett make up the Stage Door Johnnies who, in their toy soldier outfits seem like a male version of the Rockettes...only much sexier! And having recently appeared on Fire Island as the opening act for Alan Cumming and Liza Minnelli (yes, the Liza), they could probably show Gypsy Rose Lee a thing or two.

an entire ensemble of formal evening wear. Like Bruner, Hot Toddy has won the “Best Boylesque” title at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend. Holding the bawdiness together, Cora Vette, with her bodacious curves and effervescent personality, does a stellar job of making the audience feel at home while, like burlesque emcees of yore, serving up a steady stream of racy jokes, groaners and otherwise. And when she sings, you’ll understand why she’s billed as “Mouth of a Sailor Voice of an Angel!” As with traditional burlesque shows, the emphasis here is on the strip and the tease. While Ray and Jett can hold their own with the Men of OZ, unless Russell and Joe have hit the gym since March, they just prove that you don’t have to be a hunk-a-hunk to be a burlesque star. Of course ya gotta have a gimmick, but what counts here is imagination, flair and performing talent. You’ll find all of that and more at STRUT!

Pan promoter & member... Peter Rivers

PaPa Cherry @ Pan Mardi Gras

mobile

papar azzi

Joan Rivers at IP Casino Resort in Biloxi

t 79, Joan Rivers is not only as brilliantly funny as ever but seems to have more energy than most people half her age. Seen recently at the IP Casino Resort in Biloxi, she not only delivered an hour of non-stop laughter but did so while working the length of the stage, even lying down on it—drawing yet more laughs from her attempts to then get up again. That Rivers knows just how to craft a joke is evident every time she opens her mouth. What she doesn’t always get credit for is how sublime a physical comedienne she is. For example, about halfway into her routine she related how she had performed for an audience of deaf people the night before and then launched into a silent retelling of the past half hour broadly highlighting all the memorable gestures she had used to get her gags and stories across. Priceless. Having seen Rivers just a month earlier at the HRC Gala Dinner here, what was truly impressive was how little repetition there was of material from that performance in her Biloxi gig, at most about 25%. Granted, she has cabinets full of jokes and could probably go a month without repeating herself, but that she takes the time to craft a virtually new and seamless act when she could just coast along demonstrates what a The Stage Door Johnnies dedicated entertainer she is. (Bazuka Joe, Ray Gunn & Jett Adore) Rivers’ take-no-prisoners apin STRUT! proach extends to both friends Speaking of Liza, I especially en- (describing Cher, Kathy Griffin and joyed Russell Bruner’s take on Two herself as “the witches from Macbeth”) Ladies from Cabaret. I’m not sure how and newer celebs like Justin Bieber he did it, but all of a sudden, in a [continued on 37] reverse strip, he somehow jumped into

Jasyn & James @ Bacchus Toga festivities

Miss Cie performing for the Pan Mardi Gras organization

Clint & Brandon @ Midtown Pub

Matt & John With Miss Cie

Cory, Aaron & Timothy @ Bacchus Toga Party

Eric, Greg & Jason @ Pan Mardi Gras Party

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Parties & Festivities ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie & John

trodding the boards ...from 33

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Chiropractor Dr. Michael Lechleiter @ Michael’s On The Park Brian & Rikki Redd grabbing a cocktail @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Tittie Toulouse stunt double Antoinette Ella Chardonnay & Tittie @ Michael’s On The Park

Bartender Will always has a smile for you @ Double Play

Dancers Tommy & Jonathan hoist dancer “Prodigy” on The Corner Pocket bar

Mike, aka Cookie St. Ann, gets ready for Oh What A Drag XX with the help of Bubbie Kakes Handsome new dancer Garrett @ Corner Pocket

Brothers Tommy & Gerald competing in Barry’s Striptease Contest @ Corner Pocket A handsome cutie joins DL Broadway for 9th Circle’s Divas Extravaganza

ambush

papar azzi Mitch gives sex appeal behind the bar @ The Corner Pocket

The Golden Girls: Winston, Carl & Darrin aka Dorothy, Rose & Blanche @ the Lantern

Scott, Tanner & Hunter welcome you to Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Corner Pocket dancer Jonathan wins Barry Bareass’ Striptease Contest @ Corner Pocket Justin & Paul work the bar for the Master & Baby Batters fundraiser @ 700 Club

You cant’ stop Vaughn from keeping it lively @ Society Page

Derek & Jon join Master & Baby Batters fundraiser @ 700 Club

Barry Bareass hosting Corner Pockets’ Sunday night Striptease Contest

Ed shows off Decadence pumps @ QT Pie

Transgender of the Year Jasmine Essex with DJ Scott Horner @ Bourbon Pub Parade

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Night Life ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Corner Pocket, Kyler Landry, Rip Naquin

Decadence Shoppe/Prime’s Matt & Kevin @ 700 Club for Master & Baby Batters fundraiser

trodding the boards ...from 34 (“that old dyke”). She has the amazing ability to make an audience believe she’s revealing intimate details of her friendship with such boldface names as Cher; who knows if Joan was really there when Chastity called to tell Mom she was going to transition to Chaz but it sure sounds like she was. Despite being a legend, Rivers cannily makes us feel as though she’s one of us by peppering her routine with the aside “And then we’ll do the act”, an approach that generates the impres-

sion that for all her jewel-like barbs about Anderson Cooper, Betty White and the Kardashians she’s just chitchatting with friends. And she gives her act a touch of the surreal by peering into the auditorium and asking with mock concern in her voice “Is Martha Stewart [or Rosie or even Liz Taylor!] here?”after she’s tossed off one of her digs at them. What I especially adore about Rivers is how she’s aware of her surroundings and works them and current events into her act. At the IP Casino, she claimed she could now check “performing in Biloxi off my bucket list.” And

with Tom Cruise’s divorce still making headlines then, she led off with “he’s been in the closet so long I was gonna give him to Good Will.” The setting for Rivers’ show was IP Studio A, a spacious, well-designed theater that comfortably holds nearly 1,400 with no bad views from any seat in the orchestra or balcony. For the near-sighted among us, though, there are video screens on either side of the stage and for those who can’t go too long without a cocktail there are four bars inside the theater. Other headliners coming up at the IP Studio A offer something for every-

one—Meat Loaf (Aug. 17), Clint Black (Aug. 18), Martina McBride (Aug. 31), the Village People (Sept. 1), George Jones (Sept. 7), Fantasia (Sept. 8), Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone (Sept. 22), Frank Sinatra, Jr., (Sept. 29), Smokey Robinson (Oct. 12), and the one who I’m going to be going back to Biloxi for, Loretta Lynn, (Oct. 5). And for those of you who want to see Joan Rivers, she’ll be doing a benefit at the Healing Center on St. Claude Avenue on August 21. Apparently it’s completely sold out. Do whatever it takes to get a ticket.

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ambush

papar azzi

Jeff & Rob’s salute to the Olympics @ Tonic in Lafayette

Shica, Robbie & Shortly invite you to join them @ World famous Clover Grill

Yankee & Cajun Boy @ Tonic in Lafayette

Adonis De’Orleans in The Man Show @ 4 Seasons in Metairie

Engender @ 4 Seasons in Metairie

Awesome Eighties House Party Extravaganza @ Ryan & Dustin’s house

Ryan & Dustin’s Awesome Eighties House Party

Extravaganza Awesone Eighties House Party &

Bartenders Eric & Wayne welcome you to the Phoenix Jeff & JohnPaul’s Paul @ Jeff Mallon’s Going Away Party @ Tony’s house

Athena & Good Friends Luke playing around

Ryan & Dustin’s Jerry & GM Tommy @ Dance Club Marigny Manor House’s Gil & John @ the Phoenix Amanda, NOLA Daniel & Liz @ Cafe Lafitte In Exile

Justin, Lafitte’s morning bartender Steven & Aaron @ Lafitte’s

Bar Baronessa Joann & manager David @ Kajun’s Pub

Daryl, David, Duane, Cat & Misti join Jeff Mallon’s Going Away Party @ Tony’s house

The see no evil, speak no evil and hear no evil gays @ Jeff Mallon’s Going Away Party

of the Year Oz Sunday Dinner @ Albert Carey’s house

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The Big Easy ~ New Orleans, Lafayette, Metairie ~ Photos by Devin, Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon

700 Club’s Cricket, Bourbon Pub’s Nettie & John cocktailin’ @ Lafitte’s

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40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM