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travel
papar azzi
The Kremlin, the Great Palace, Ivan The Great Bell Tower & Church of the Assumption, where all Czars were crowned in Moscow
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inston Gray celebrates his 81st birthday with whole suckling pig prepared by Chef Shep at his annual Surprise Birthday Party hosted at Tubby’s Golden Lantern in New Orleans.
Hall of Mirrors @ Catherine Place
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outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard join Caesar at the oldest gay bar in North America, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, for Cooking with the Grand Marshals raising $$$ for Belle Reve in New Orleans. For more visit SouthernDecadence.COM.
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AA Board’s Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain present Buzzy’s Boys & Girls’ Steve Tregre with $3,432, the total proceeds raised at the 25th annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala, hosted at Oz in New Orleans. Since 1997, the gala has raised $46,104 for charity. Visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA for additional information.
St. Basil’s Cathedral on Red Square in Moscow
celebrazzi Ceramic stove in Fireplace Room in Catherine Palace Bolshoi Ballet Theatre in Moscow
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uest MC Blanche DeBris joins the new Miss Louisiana Leatherette Countess C. Alice and Lords of Leather Captain Gary Vandeventer on stage at the Bourbon Pub Parade in New Orleans after winning the contest. For more visit LordsOfLeather.COM.
KGB Headquarters in Moscow St. Petersburg Church
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isa Beaumann and Dusty DeBris join Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXVIII TJ Conard at Corner Pocket’s Potluck Burlesque benefit show for Southern Decadence charity Belle Reve.
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mbush’s Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain celebrate with bar baron Michael Cookmeyer for Michael’s On The Park’s 1st Anniversary in New Orleans. Visit MichaelsOnThePark.COM for more info.
Peter the Great designed Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg
Entrance to Red Square in Moscow
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St. Petersburg & Moscow ~ Russia ~ Photos by World Traveler Ken Grandpre
Catherine the Great’s Catherine Summer Palace in St. Petersburg
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More fun @ 700 Club’s Hoe Down fundraiser
SDGMs 38 Pat McArdle & TJ Conard @ 700 Club fundraiser
Bar Baron Michael Cookmeyer joins SDGM TJ for the Michael’s On The Park fundraiser Jacey Frew & partner SDGM Pat McArdle @ Lafitte’s fundraiser
Nicole & Doc join SDGM Pat with one of the fab auction items @ Lafitte’s fundraiser
Jennifer & friends @ Lafitte’s fundraiser
SDGM TJ & his posse @ 700 Club’s Big Country Hoe Down fundraiser
Ambush photographer Devin & SDGM TJ @ 700 Club Hoe Down
Official Southern Decadence Charity, Belle Reve
Corner Pocket dancer Jonathan @ Corner Pocket’s Potluck Burlesque benefit show
Bartenders Ashlee & Don enjoy some of the eats @ Corner Pocket benefit show TJ & company @ Country Club fundraiser
SDGMs Pat & TJ with Good Friends manager Neel for Good Friends fundraiser
Barry Bareass leading a Conga line of Corner Pocket dancers performing “Rio” @ benefit show
snap paparazzi
Joining the fun @ Lafitte’s fundraiser
French Market Corporation’s Frank Pizzolato & SDGM TJ @ 700 Club Hoe Down
SDGM #1 Frederick Wright with SDGM Pat @ Cutter’s fundraiser
Marsha Delain Award of Excellence’s Dusty DeBris performing @ Corner Pocket’s Potluck Burlesque benefit
24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 28-Sept em ber 10, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Raising $$$ for Belle Reve ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin, Rip Naquin
Crescent City Tour Booking Agency’s Frank & Bourbon Pride’s Philip @ Lafitte’s fundraiser
Lisa Beaumann with the Corner Pocket Dancers performing Official SD Song “Starships” @ Corner Pocket fundraiser
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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Welcome to 41st Annual Southern Decadence
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elcome to the giant 41st annual 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. There are over 100 events this year offering each individual something that will entice them to enjoy the weekend that is world renown, Southern Decadence (SD). A complete list of events begins on page 38 or you can visit the Official Southern Decadence website, SouthernDecadence.COM online, or on any of your mobile devices. Southern Decadence Grand Mar- many surprises attracting thousands shals (SDGMs) XXXVIII Pat McArdle to the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann and TJ Conard have set the tone for Streets. this year's celebration. The theme is 38th Official Southern Decadence Peace, Hope & Love = Monkey Parade celebrating the 41st Southern Dance, while the colors are white, Decadence led by Southern Decapurple and silver. Starships by Nicki dence Grand Marshals XXXVIII Pat Minaj is the official song, and Belle McArdle and TJ Conard on Sunday, Reve was chosen as the charity with a Sept. 2nd, 2pm sharp, beginning at the goal of raising $10,000. Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby's This 2012 colorful poster is the Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street. result of a Grey Cross Studios' photo This walking parade is open for anyone shoot, with Studio 11's Jessie Matthew to participate in, which is a glorified Elliot credited with graphic art and de- street march/bar crawl stopping at sign, as well as original art by Jacey many of New Orleans famous gay bars. Frew. Get on your favorite costume and join The official sponsors include Am- the festivities! bush 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.
Longest Running Southern Decadence Events FREE for All!
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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: Annual 3-Day Southern Decadence Block Party on Friday-Sunday, August 31st-September 2nd, 9pm2am, hosted by the Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields, with vendor fair, beer bust, porn stars, djs and more. 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 Mary Griffin, Jeanie Tracy, and Ben Cohen, plus
Sunday, September 2nd, 2pm, 1239 Royal St. 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,
inside
NO/AIDS Walk edition out Sept. 11th DEADLINE: Tues., Sept. 4th
41st southern decadence celebrazzi/travel paparazzi snap paparazzi/new orleans southern decadence bead toss snap paparazzi/new orleans pensacola paparazzi interview/big sd names facespot, big sd names over 100 sd events ambush paparazzi/new orleans bourbon street extravaganza ambush paparazzi/new orleans
20 22 24 26 30 34 36 38 38 42 45 46
under the gaydar 50 no/aids walk 52 big easy paparazzi/new orleans 54 survivor's bar crawl 55 halloween new orleans 56 mobile paparazzi 60 classifieds 62 a community within communities 68 on the prowl 70 trodding the boards 72 reVIEW...books, movies, cds 72 chop chop/nola restaurant guide 77
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com
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.
Ambush Giant 80 Page Edition
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mbush Mag celebrates the 41st Anniversary of Southern Decadence along with other hot events across the Gulf South on this Labor Day Weekend Wednesday, August 29th through Labor Day, Monday, September 3rd. In this edition readers will find over 60 pages in ads featuring the most events ever held in Southern Decadence history as well as happenings in Baton Rouge, Metairie, Mobile, Pensacola and Slidell. Nine pages in photos will bring gay life, music and culture to life, as well as some 36 pages of color. You will not know what you will want to see and do without checking out the various ads for venues, bars, restaurants, galleries, shops, spas, hair salons, real estate agents, costumes, services, and Ambush’s extensive classified section beginning on page 62.
Oz Presents All-Star Lineup Aug. 30-Sept. 2
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ance Club of the Year Oz, 800 Bourbon, kicks off Southern Decadence on Thursday, August 30th when Chi Chi LaRue hits town to host Oz's Thursday Southern Decadence Strip-off as "Your Favorite Diva of Porn," along with Oz's own Persana Shoulders. Plus LaRue will guest DJ both Saturday and Sunday. The club brings circuit greats DJ Roland Belmares on Friday, August 31st to spin his magic followed by DJ Joe Gauthreaux on Saturday, September 1st, and DJ Phil B. on Sunday, [continued on 32]
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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Chase & Daniel in the Red Dress Run @ Oz
Lafitte’s bartender Jeff for the Red Dress Run
Petronius co-captains Dragzilla & Bootsie @ Oz for Queen of Desserts
snap paparazzi
Countess C. Alice wins Lords of Leather Miss Louisiana Leatherette @ Bourbon Pub Parade
Headquarters’ Jessica in the Red Dress Run Gigi smashes a pie into Tony’s face raising $285 for Petronius’ Queen of Desserts
Oz bartenders Blake & Frankie ready for the Red Dress Run
Miss Louisiana Leatherette 1st Runner-Up Armani Black in fantasy/leather competition The Red Dress Run on Bourbon St.
Miss Louisiana Leatherette 2nd Runner-Up Tutu Cox in swimwear competition with MC Blanche DeBris
Rawhide bartender Alex for the Red Dress Run
Bartender Ryan behind the bar @ Bourbon Pub for Red Dress Run Napoleon’s Itch bar baron Julian for the Red Dress Run
Miss Louisiana Leatherette MC Blanche DeBris & Lord King Ed Azemas
Red Dress Run with Bourbon Pub bartender Tim
Jack, Bobby Blue’s Freddie & Al watch the Red Dress Run
Queen of Desserts function lieutenant Lady Facille
Petronius’ Justice Pretty in Queen of Desserts show @ Oz
Amon-Ra president Deja Deja-Vue’ joins Queen of Desserts show
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Miss Louisiana Leatherette, Red Dress Run, Queen of Desserts ~ New Orleans ~ Photos Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin
Lords of Leather Capt. Gary & MC Blanche in Miss LA Leatherette
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Southern Decadence Reaches Over $1 Billion Economic Impact on New Orleans & Brings in Over 1 Million Participants
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he 41st Southern Decadence celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture heralds in the end of summer with a huge economic impact for the community and the city over Labor Day Weekend, August 29th through September 1st. While over 135,000 participants with an economic impact of $160 million or better is expected this year, since 1996 the celebration has had over a $1 billion, $117 million economic impact. The Official Website of Southern Decadence, SouthernDecadence.COM, was launched in 1996, the only website on Southern Decadence at the time, and has been keeping records on the estimated crowds which now total 1 million, 142 thousand, as well as the projected economic impact each year. These astounding figures came to light as Ambush Mag Publisher/Editor Rip Naquin-Delain, prepared for a recent television program interview. Ambush produces the Internet domain, while often Naquin-Delain is questioned on everything pertaining to Southern Decadence from media and individual requests received from around the world. He feels it is the duty of both Ambush and SouthernDecadence.COM to promote and maintain this wonderful tradition, while helping the GLBT community to prosper and succeed from Decadence's international growth.
the "official" dish ...from 28 September 2nd. And of course, 16 hot Men of Oz will dance on the bar tops. Resident DJs Tim Pflueger, JRB, Bull, Brian Hartman, Devil on Ice and Robbie C. round out the weekend with illuminations by Johnny Eubanks. For more information, visit OzNewOrleans.COM or see their front cover ad.
16 Years of Bud Light & Southern Decadence
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outhern Decadence would not have evolved into what it has become without the generosity of its many sponsors. One of the oldest is Bud Light, now into its 16th year of sponsorship. Jerry Peters and his staff have gone beyond what is expected in their support of the Southern Decadence Grand Marshals each year. Without them we wouldn't have posters and banners proclaiming Southern Decadence around the city, which is one of the most visible donations they have made. And what they do personally for
the grand marshals is even more appreciated. So this weekend make one of your drinks a Bud Light!
Rawhide, Good Friends & Cafe Lafitte In Exile Kick off Southern Decadence Aug. 30
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ll three Wood Enterprises' establishments: Rawhide 2010, Good Friends Bar, and Cafe Lafitte In Exile kick off Southern Decadence weekend on Thursday, August 30th. It all starts at Rawhide 2010 beginning at 4pm when one of the top 10 leather bars in the country host the Bear Decadence Beer Bust. Later that evening at 11pm, it's the 6th Annual Fetish Ball crowning the 6th King of Decadence. (Rawhide2010.COM or page 3) Over at Good Friends, kick off Southern Decadence with the USDA Prime Aged Beef Contest (must be 35 years and up) at 11pm hosted by Delicious and the winner takes home $100 in cash. (GoodFriendsBar.COM or page 3) The oldest gay bar/club in North America, Cafe Lafitte in Exile brings you the annual Dick of Decadence Contest with host Barbara Ella at 12 midnight. Held upstairs in the Balcony Bar, all $5 cover charge proceeds goes to top three finishers with 1st getting 50%, 2nd 30%, and 3rd 20%. (Lafittes.COM or back cover, page 80)
Bourbon Pub & Parade Kicks off Southern Decadence All-Star Lineup Aug. 30-Sept. 3 Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Pat McArdle & TJ Conard (Photo by Grey Cross)
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ne of the world's Top 10 Gay Bars and Clubs, Bourbon Pub & Parade kicks off Southern Decadence over Labor Day Weekend Thursday, August 30th-
Monday, September 3rd. Your hosts for the weekend, direct from Los Angeles, are Billy Francesca and Rhea Litre! Upstairs, dance nonstop to Parade’s decadent DJ lineup, including: Thursday - DJ Sean Michael (NOLA); Friday - DJ Mike Bryant (Los Angeles); Saturday - Masterbeat DJ Brett Henrichsen; Sunday Tea - DJ Robbie Leslie (SiriusXM-Studio 54 Radio); Sunday Night - DJ Max Rodriguez (New York) and MondayDJ Jayskee (NOLA). Downstairs at the Pub, enjoy local VJ’s Brendan Thompson and Chris Allen. Also on Thursday night, don’t miss the infamous Big Dick Contest, hosted by The Bearded Lady herself Billy Francesca and the newly crowned King Cake Queen Miss Nicole DuBois. Register “your assets” upon arrival! At Sunday’s T-Dance, be there as Disco Diva legend, France Joli, performs her classic “Come To Me” and more, live on stage! For more info visit BourbonPub.COM or see their center page ad spread, pages 40-41.
Gay New Orleans Walking Tour Aug. 29-Sept. 2
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he Crescent City Tour Book ing Agency announces the debut of its Gay New Orleans Walking Tour. This interactive tour is an exploration of New Orleans’ rich gay history and current gay community. Highlights include: >The origins of Southern Decadence >The evolution of Gay Carnival >The gay connection to the JFK assassination >The tragic Upstairs Lounge Fire >The homes of Tennessee Williams & Truman Capote >The oldest gay bar in the nation >The South’s oldest gay & lesbian themed bookstore >The historic Ambush Mansion >And much, much more The tour is offered daily at 5pm Thursday-Monday, or by appointment. Cost is $25. Tour departs from 638 St. Ann (near Royal St.). Reservations required. Call 504.568.0717 to book your tour now.
Phoenix Kicks Off Southern Decadence with Free Beer Aug. 30
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he Phoenix welcomes visitors and locals alike with free Pabst Blue Ribbon beer Thursday, August 30th from 3-6pm. It kicks off four days of non-stop action. From nightly beer bust to krewe fundraisers to the giant 3-day Southern Decadence Block Party, you're in for an exciting time.
The block party runs Friday-Sunday, 9pm-2am with a vendor fair, hot porn stars, Men of Decadence, and DJs Chris Zachos and Robbie Martin. Visit NewOrleansPhoenix.COM for more information or the Phoenix's 13 ads running from page 6 through 18.
Petronius' "Decadence Royal Tea" Sept. 1
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he Grand Dame of Mardi Gras, the Krewe of Petronius will present it's first annual "Decadence Royal Tea Party" Saturday, September 1st, at the Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields Ave. The party kicks off at 3pm and runs until 7pm. There will be male dancers, drag queens and "pay one price" drinks til you drop. It is $20 for advance ticket sales and $30 at the door, for all you can drink well drinks and beer, premiums and drink specials also available. So, get out of the heat and into some HEAT indoors at the Phoenix at the Krewe of Petronius Royal Tea Party. Tickets can be purchased at the Krewe website www.kreweofpetronius.org, click on the" Shop Tab." All proceeds benefit the Krewe of Petronius Mardi Gras Ball 2013 and its charity BreakOUT!
Lords of Leather "Down & Dirty Party" Sept. 1
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outhern Decadence kicks off and the Lords of Leather are at their most decadent. The Lords invite you to attend the “Decadent Behavior: Down and Dirty Party” The event kicks off at 7pm on Saturday September 1st at the New Orleans Phoenix. The party will include and open bar for well drinks and domestic beers. Special guests Christian Owen and a host of other adult models will be there dancing and mingling to heat up the hot summer night. Don’t worry about the heat though, the Lords are also providing a “coat” check, so you can safely stash your jacket, shirt, or whatever is hindering you from having the best time possible. This engagement is by ticket only and tickets are numbered and limited Advance tickets are available for $30 at www.lordsofleather.com, or (if any are left) will be on sale at the door for $40. For questions, see the Lords ad on page 11, visit the website, or contact a member of the krewe. Also, come out to the Phoenix on Friday and Saturday for the SD Block Party from 9pm-2am with a five dollar beer bust and street fair among the other decadent activities the Phoenix has lined up for the weekend. Get ready to get Down and Dirty with the Lords of Leather! [continued on 34]
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the "official" dish ...from 32
23rd NO/AIDS Walk Sunday, Sept. 23
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emerald city paparazzi
For additional information or to register, please visit www.noaidswalk.com or www.noaidstaskforce.org. or call 504.821.2601.
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Excitement on The Emerald Coast ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell
he largest annual AIDS awareness event in Louisiana prepares to mark its 23rd year with thousands of individual walkers and over one hundred teams walking beneath the majestic oaks of Audubon Park and the streets of Uptown New Orleans for the Chevron NO/AIDS WALK with presenting sponsor Avita Drugs. The event benefits NO/AIDS Task Force, one of the oldest and largest AIDS service organizations (ASO) in the Gulf South. Walkers and supporters are encouraged to meet in Audubon Park at 8am when the festivities and registration begins. The WALK will kickoff at 10am and will proceed down historic Magazine Street to Jefferson Avenue and then will turn onto Prytania Street to Napoleon Avenue and loop back to Prytania to head back into Audubon Park. The WALK is a great activity for the whole family, even the four-legged members. There will be water stops and doggie stops along the route and a children’s tent with lots of great activities. Additionally, there will be great food and drinks provided by Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown, Rain Vodka, and Coors Light. The Walk route takes approximately 45 minutes to complete, meaning there’s more than enough time to still make the Saints game after. Teams and individuals can register for free in advance by visiting www.noaidswalk.com or by calling 504.821.2601 ext. 256. By registering online, participants have access to great, easy-to-use fundraising tools to help them reach their goal. All funds raised at The WALK benefit NO/AIDS Task Force and the men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS they serve. Additionally, through The WALK Share Grant Program, other Louisiana based AIDS Service Organizations will benefit too. Every dollar makes a difference. The NO/AIDS WALK is committed to keeping costs low, especially in these tough economic times. Over 80 cents of each dollar raised goes directly to helping someone affected by this disease. “The NO/AIDS WALK is our largest fundraiser of the year, and the monies raised allow us to continue providing hope and care for men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS,” said Noel Twilbeck, CEO of NO/AIDS Task Force. “The WALK also serves another purpose which is to raise awareness that AIDS continues to affect our community and that we must be steadfast in our efforts to provide education and information that help prevent new infections”
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interview
big names in for SD
by Tony Leggio E-mail: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Chi Chi LaRue
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ew Orleans, get ready because Southern Decadence is here and so is the talented Chi Chi LaRue. Director, DJ and Celebrity Drag Persona Chi Chi LaRue, is one of the most recognizable names and faces in the adult film industry. He began in the press department for Catalina Video, a label he now owns under his company Channel 1 Releasing. He was soon directing some of the highest selling releases of all time. Multi-award winning and an GayVN Award Hall of Fame inductee, Chi Chi has branded his name and image creating everything from sex toys to candles to Chi Chi LaRue water, all sold at his adult boutique, Chi Chi LaRue’s, on Santa Monica Blvd. in the heart of West Hollywood. In 2005, Chi Chi LaRue became a DJ and now tours with porn stars from his movies, selling out in clubs all over the world. In 2007, LaRue was chosen as one of Out (magazine's) Top 50 most influential people in the LGBT community. LaRue and partner, Channel 1 Releasing opened their first company store, Chi Chi LaRue’s, in West Hollywood in 2008. The store offers the entire Channel 1 catalog of more than 2,000 titles and products. An exclusive arrangement has also been made with One Condoms to provide all the protective barrier products for the store. I got a chance to speak with him before his trip down to the Big Easy. TL (Tony Leggio): What new things can Decadence goers expect to see this year? CCL (Chi Chi LaRue): I am very excited this year because I am once again back at Oz after a very long time. It was actually Oz who brought me down to New Orleans in the first place over a decade ago. It is good to return. I am bringing down some very sexy boys with me like Dean Monroe, Travis Irons and Blake Riley, who is actually coming out of retirement to dance on the bar at Oz over the weekend. I will also play celebrity DJ. TL: How decadent are you going to be? CCL: Well, I am hosting the Big Dick contest which I think has been tamed down to the Strip-off contest. Southern Decadence has gone from being extremely filthy to a lot calmer since I first started years ago. But as you know I am going to push all the boundaries I can. TL: How is the change of venue for you? CCL: I think it will be incredible. I
Mary Griffin Bourbon Street Extravaganza Napoleon's Itch
love Tommy and I will be working closely with Persana Shoulders. Oz is a great club so it should be very fun. TL: Do you ever think you would do a stand-up comedy show of your life and your adventures in NOLA? CCL: I can definitely tell some stories. Many a night I was slung up on the pool table at the Rawhide in full drag. But actually no regimented stage act for me. I am much better off the cuff and can adapt to any situation well making it easy to quickly jump into the moment. TL: What will be different this year? CCL: I will experience New Orleans during Southern Decadence for the first time sober. I am nine months sober. So I may get to experience more of the city. This is Dean Monroe’s first time, so I think we may do some touring. TL: Are there some things you like to do when you are here? CCL: I have been to the cemeteries and the bayou before. I actually filmed a movie down in New Orleans and the surrounding areas called Deep South. I like walking down Royal Street and your food is great. I can’t wait to eat at the Gumbo Shop and Yo Mama’s for one of their peanut butter and jalapeno burgers. But I also have had a gastric bypass done, so I probably will not eat like I did before. TL: You are now a very popular DJ, tell me about your style. CCL: I have my own style which I call Drag Queen Jukebox. I have really good musicality and know how to get people to dance. I play all the dance hits of the divas like Madonna, Britney and top 40 of course. Then I will throw in an oldie but goodie by Donna Summer or Abba and the crowd goes wild. I am not a mixer, so I normally do not do
Ben Cohen Bourbon Street Extravaganza Napoleon's Itch
Jeanie Tracey Bourbon Street Extravaganza Napoleon's Itch circuit parties. It is hard to get headphones over my wig. I am very visual usually dancing and lip syncing to the songs. I am very lucky to get a lot of work, I have a once a month standing gig in Los Angeles and another one at the Share Nightclub in Las Vegas. I also have regular gigs like Southern Decadence, Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco and IML in Chicago. TL: You also have a retail store now, how is that going? CCL: It is holding its own. We have been open for three years and not losing money, so that is a good thing. We have everything. You can check out our merchandise or order anything at www.chichilarues.com. TL: What new movies are you working on? CCL: I just filmed three new films in Florida which will be coming out shortly. I have friends from Swiss Navy lube which was very instrumental in helping me and also is a sponsor of me for Southern Decadence. They really are the best. TL: So you are always on the move, how can people keep up? CCL: Very easy, you can go to my website www.c1r.com, friend me on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter. I for one am looking forward to seeing Chi Chi over Decadence. He is energetic and witty mixed with a lot of naughtiness. Check out Oz’s ad on Ambush's front cover to get his full schedule.
DJ Roland Belmares @ Oz
DJ Joe Gauthreaux @ Oz
DJ Phil B. @ Oz
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big names in for SD
Billy Francesca Bourbon Pub Parade
Rhea Litre Bourbon Pub Parade
King Cake Queen Nicole DuBois Bourbon Pub Parade (Photo by Larry Graham)
Boys of Montreal The Corner Pocket
Men of Decadence Southern Decadence Block Party Phoenix
over 100 SD events
FaceSPOT! what's trending online...
WEDNESDAY, August 29th... 7-9pm, Southern Decadence Poster Signing benefiting Belle Reve with ongoing 50/50 Raffle announcing the winner that evening @ Rawhide 2010 10pm, Southern Decadence Wet Jockey Shorts Contest, + Dancers wetted down & dancin’ on the bar, $150 in cash & prizes, The Corner Pocket THURSDAY, August 30th... 10am-9pm, Kick It Off Pool Party, The Country Club 3pm-6pm, SD12 Kickoff Party hosted by Will Clark with free Pabst Blue Ribbon plus Dancers on stage @ 3pm, Phoenix
3pm til, The Boys of Montreal join the famous Corner Pocket Boys Dancin’ on the Bar, The Corner Pocket 4pm until, Welcome to Bear Decadence Beer Bust, Rawhide 2010 5pm, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, $25, departs from Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann, 504.568.0717 for reservations 7pm til, Boys on Stage on the Pole, Rainbow Room 7-9pm, Decadent Ducks host Early Arrivals Cocktail Party, Cash bar & drink specials, Tubby’s Golden Lantern 9pm-12midnight, Big Easy [continued on 48]
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ambush
papar azzi
Al & Dwain join Wood Enterprises’ Ken for Red Dress Run @ Lafitte’s
Decadence Shoppe’s Kevin
Matt behind the counter @ Decadence Shoppe
Princesse Stephaney & Justice Pretty join Michael’s On The Park’s 1st Anniversary
Daniel @ COK (Clothing of Kink) in the Phoenix
Le Roundup bartender Chris
Derek & Cricket from 700 Club kitchen
Organic Banana’s Tony & Natasha
Tim, Randall, Ron & Maggie in for Michael’s 1st Anniversary
Steve & Jarvin @ Quartermaster Deli
The beautiful patio @ Michael’s On The Park
Bartenders TJ & Brian welcome you to the Phoenix
Chris behind the bar @ Bourbon Pub Parade
Cutter’s reps Mike, Wayde & Blake @ Red Dress Run
DJ Ben, assistant manager Wendy & bartender John @ Rainbow Room
Voodoo manager Tagdh
Jackie, Todd & Faye ready for you @ Aart Accent Tattoo & Body Piercings
George, Mike & Momma Cookmeyer celebrate Michael’s On The Park’s 1st Anniversary
Mercedes Ellis Loreal performs @ 4 Seasons in Metairie
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The Crescent City ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Devin, Larry Graham, Paul Melancon
Mona Lisa’s staff welcomes you
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ambush
papar azzi
Bartender Otis gives Double Play bar baron Chuck some tongue!
Bear & Steve @ Rawhide for Wednesday Meat Night
Rawhide’s Meat Night brings out Michael & Russ ”In Exile” author Frank Perez with New Orleans’ legendary Mother Moses @ Double Play
Mike & Blake’s “girls night out” without husbands @ Rawhide
Bartender Frankie entertaining Corner Pocket bartenders Don & Bruce @ Oz
Marsha gets solar powered Queen Elizabeth from Bungalows for her 39th anniversary
Rip & Marsha celebrate their 39th Anniversary starting @ Oz
Winston is dashing for his 81st Surprise Birthday Party @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Chef Shep ready to carve Winston’s whole suckling pig @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Lantern show coordinator Andy Ehlers & the girls perform for Winston’s 81st b-day show
Maison de Macarty’s Dr. Warren Fraser & artist Jacqueline Chesta of Paris, France for her opening at the B&B
Piano player Glenn Aucoin & singer Celeste Angelle Veillon perform @ Maison de Macarty Jacqueline Chesta reception
Chris behind the bar @ Bourbon Pub Parade
Bourbon Pub Parade manager Chuck with Robert & Garth
Bartender Richard & Frankie @ Rawhide’s Meat Night
Wilhemina & Lance behind the bar for Winston’s b-day @ the Lantern
Maison de Macarty proprietors Kurt Goodman & Dr. Warren Fraser host “A Flavor of Paris” cocktail reception
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Bars, Special Nights, Celebrations ~ New Orleans
Oz DJ JRB keeps ‘em dancin’ for the Red Dress Run
Charlie Bear & David in for Rawhide’s Meat Night
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over 100 sd events ...from 38 Stompers Beer Bust, plus Jockstrap & Underwear Party hosted by Timoteo & CellBlock13, Phoenix 9pm-1am, Get It Wet with DJ JD Samson, The Country Club 11pm, Hot GoGo Boys, 700 Club 11pm, Kick Off Southern Decadence with USDA Prime Aged Beef Contest w/$100 cash prize, Good Friends Bar 11pm, Southern Decadence: 6th Annual Fetish Ball crowning 6th King of Decadence, Rawhide 2010 12midnight, Big Dick Contest hosted by King Cake Queen Nicole DuBois & Billy Francesca with DJ Sean Michael, Bourbon Pub Parade 12midnight, Chi Chi LaRue, “Your Favorite Diva of Porn,” hits town to host Strip Off with Persona Shoulders plus DJ all weekend, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12midnight - Dick of Decadence Contest, all $5 cover charge proceeds goes to top 3 finishers, Balcony Bar, Cafe Lafitte in Exile 11pm til, Southern Decadence 2012: 2 Bars, 2 Dance Floors, “All Hands On Decks” Open Turntable Night, The Ninth Circle & Voodoo Bar FRIDAY, August 31st... 10am-6pm, No Monkey Business, The Country Club 3pm til, The Boys of Montreal join the famous Corner Pocket Boys Dancin’ on the Bar, The Corner Pocket 4pm, Hot GoGo Boys, 700 Club 5pm, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, $25, departs from Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann, 504.568.0717 for reservations 6pm-1am, Maybe A Little Monkey Business, The Country Club 6-9pm, Southern Decadence Welcome Party @ House of Blues with DJ Julian Marsh (music producer for Dolly Parton, Boy George, LeAnn Rimes, Whitney Houston, Charo, Pepper Mashay, Kristine W, and many more), $15, DecadentDuckEvents.COM 7pm til, Boys on Stage on the Pole, Rainbow Room 9pm-2am, Southern Decadence Block Party with Vendors Fair, plus DJ Chris Zachos 10pm-1am, Phoenix 9pm-2am, Lords of Leather Beer Bust, Phoenix 9pm, New Orleans Radical Faeries present 2012 Prince of Perversion Ball: The Ass Menagerie, $10, costumes/ fetish wear recommended, Cafe Istanbul, N. Rampart & St. Roch 9pm, Southern Decadence with Circuit Great Guest DJ Roland Belmares & Resident DJs Tim Pflueger, JRB, Bull, Brian Hartman, Devil on Ice and Robbie C. round out the weekend with illuminations by Johnny Eubanks, plus 16 hot Men of Oz Dancers featuring Adult Superstar Deon Monroe with appearances by Travis Irons & Blake Riley, Dance Club of the Year Oz
10pm, Bearracuda New Orleans, Live CD Release party for Christeene, Performances by Vinsantos & More, Advanced tickets available at www.Bearracuda.COM, contact phone number: 530.321.6966, @ One Eyed Jacks, 615 Toulouse 10pm, BLUE MOON: The MAN Show featuring DJ Eddie Mitchell, Monster Cross & Tyriq Davenport, The Double Play 10pm, Dancers, Michael’s on the Park 10pm, New Meat Amateur Dance Contest with $100 cash prize, The Corner Pocket 11pm, Annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals’ Drag Show featuring SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle & TJ Conard with former SDGMs & many others, Official Home of Southern Decadence: Tubby’s Golden Lantern 11pm, Bleachmen Follies featuring Klorocks Bleachman & friends, Michael’s on the Park 12midnight, Boys on Parade hosted by Jasmine Essex & Matt B. with DJ Mike Bryant, Bourbon Pub Parade 12midnight, Underwear Party, Michael’s on the Park 1am, Boys on Stage on the Pole Hot Body Contest, Rainbow Room Southern Decadence 2012: 2 Bars, 2 Dance Floors featuring Alan Goldberg, Goodboy, Tom Harvey, Blair Q, Karbination, Absent Hero & Silver, The Ninth Circle & Voodoo Bar SATURDAY, September 1st... 10am-6pm, Hot & Sexxy Party with sexy porn stars out by the pool, The Country Club 2pm-6pm, Dancers, plus Beach Party on the Patio, Michael’s on the Park 3-7pm, Dudes, Drinks & Drag: Decadence Royal Tea Party, a fundraiser for the Krewe of Petronius, Phoenix 3pm til, The Boys of Montreal join the famous Corner Pocket Boys Dancin’ on the Bar, The Corner Pocket 4pm, Hot GoGo Boys, 700 Club 4-7pm, Special guest DJ Chi Chi LaRue, plus 16 hot Men of Oz Dancers featuring Adult Superstar Deon Monroe with appearances by Travis Irons & Blake Riley, Dance Club of the Year Oz 5pm, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, $25, departs from Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann, 504.568.0717 for reservations 5pm, Napoleon’s Itch presents the 9th Bourbon Street Extravaganza live free concert featuring Mary Griffin, Jeanie Tracy & more stars featuring special guest Ben Cohen, corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets 6pm-1am, All The Way Saturday, The Country Club 7pm til, Boys on Stage on the Pole, Rainbow Room 7-10pm, Lords of Leather Decadent Behavior Party, Phoenix
8:30 & 11pm, Strut Male Striptease Show, House of Blues 9pm-2am, Southern Decadence Block Party with Vendors Fair, plus DJ Chris Zachos 10pm-1am, Phoenix 9pm-2am, Lords of Leather Beer Bust, Phoenix 9pm, Southern Decadence with Circuit Great Guest DJ Joe Gauthreaux & Resident DJs Tim Pflueger, JRB, Bull, Brian Hartman, Devil on Ice and Robbie C. round out the weekend with illuminations by Johnny Eubanks, plus 16 hot Men of Oz Dancers featuring Adult Superstar Deon Monroe with appearances by Travis Irons & Blake Riley, Dance Club of the Year Oz 10pm, All Boy Revue, 15 Boys Dancin’ til Dawn, The Corner Pocket 10pm, Decadence Divas “R” Us Show starring Entertainer of the Year Monique Michaels, Rikki Redd, Melody Scott, Imani Black, Yaisha Bubblez Alexander, Transgender of the Year Jasmine Essex, Mercedes Alexander & more, Tubby’s Golden Lantern 10pm, Dancers plus The Gumbo Review with Regina Adams & friends, Michael’s on the Park 11pm, Shirtless Party, Michael’s on the Park 11pm, Sweat homo/erotic dance concept with Five + Honey B & special guest Boi Toi, 1135 Decatur St. 12midnight, Hot Ass Contest with Geovanny & Tiffany Alexander with DJ Brett Henrichsen, Bourbon Pub Parade 1am, Boys on Stage on the Pole Hot Body Contest, Rainbow Room Southern Decadence 2012: 2 Bars, 2 Dance Floors featuring Alan Goldberg, Goodboy, Tom Harvey, Blair Q, Karbination, Absent Hero & Silver, The Ninth Circle & Voodoo Bar SUNDAY, September 2nd... 10am-6pm, “Tea Dance” with DJ Sliver, The Country Club 11am-2pm, HRC & Napoleons’ Itch presents Meet & Greet with rugby star & anti-gay bashing & bulling activist Ben Cohen, Bourbon Orleans Ballroom 11am-1:45pm, Southern Decadence SDGMs XXXVIII Brunch & Make-up Party, The Friendly Bar 11am, Southern Decadence Street Party with music & entertainment, Official Home of Southern Decadence: Tubby’s Golden Lantern 11:30am-1:30pm, Decadent Ducks’ presents “Sunday Services” with Candy Samples fundraiser show benefiting Food For Friends, with cash bar, drink specials, raffle and prizes, Michael’s on the Park 2pm sharp, 38th Annual Official Southern Decadence Parade led by SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle & TJ Conard celebrating Southern Decadence 41, begins @ Official Home of Southern Decadence: Tubby’s Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal St. 2pm-6pm, Beach Party on the Patio, Michael’s on the Park 3pm til, The Boys of Montreal join
the famous Corner Pocket Boys Dancin’ on the Bar, The Corner Pocket 4pm, Hot GoGo Boys, 700 Club 4-7pm, Special guest DJ Chi Chi LaRue, plus 16 hot Men of Oz Dancers featuring Adult Superstar Deon Monroe with appearances by Travis Irons & Blake Riley, Dance Club of the Year Oz 4:30ish pm, 19th Annual Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss led by SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle & TJ Conard, hosted by the Susan Lucci’s: Rip & Marsha, sponsored Ambush Mag & SouthernDecadence.COM, AMBUSH Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St. 5pm, Annual Miss High Hair Contest, winner takes home the coveted Bronze Barbie, Good Friends Bar 5pm, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, $25, departs from Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann, 504.568.0717 for reservations 5pm, Sunday Tea with DJ Robbie Leslie featuring France Joli live on stage, Bourbon Pub Parade 6pm-1am, Cool Down & Chill Out, The Country Club 7pm til, Boys on Stage on the Pole, Rainbow Room 9pm-2am, Southern Decadence Block Party with Vendors Fair, plus DJ Robbie Martin 10pm-1am, Phoenix 9pm-2am, Big Easy Stompers Beer Bust, Phoenix 9pm, Southern Decadence with Circuit Great Guest DJ Phil B. & Resident DJs Tim Pflueger, JRB, Bull, Brian Hartman, Devil on Ice and Robbie C. round out the weekend with illuminations by Johnny Eubanks, plus 16 hot Men of Oz Dancers featuring Adult Superstar Deon Monroe with appearances by Travis Irons & Blake Riley, Dance Club of the Year Oz 10pm, Barry Bareass Striptease Contest with $50 cash prize, The Corner Pocket 10pm, Dancers plus Iggy Ingler’s Psycho Pomp Trans Missions, Michael’s on the Park 11pm, Blackout Party, Michael’s on the Park 12midnight, DJ Max Rodriquez, Bourbon Pub Parade Southern Decadence 2012: 2 Bars, 2 Dance Floors featuring Alan Goldberg, Goodboy, Tom Harvey, Blair Q, Karbination, Absent Hero & Silver, The Ninth Circle & Voodoo Bar LABOR DAY, MONDAY, September 3rd... 10am-6pm, Crank It Up & Work It Out with DJ Sliver, The Country Club 2pm, 15th Annual Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by Cruise Director - Ted Mahaffy, honoring SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle & TJ Conard, beginning with snacks at The Corner Pocket, then to The Double Play, Le Roundup, Society Page, 700 Club, Ninth Circle, Voodoo Bar, ending with a BBQ @ Michael’s on the Park [continued on 50]
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Bartender of the Month
I
know we are not quite in September but I would like to announce my bartender of the month for the Southern Decadence issue since his bar is one of the major focal points for this flamboyant holiday. The Golden Lantern has played a prominent role in Southern Decadence for decades. It hosts the Annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals’ Drag Show featuring SDGMs XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard with former SDGMs and many others. It is also the start of the parade on Sunday at 2pm sharp. Because of this, I thought it would be fitting to have my choice for bartender of the month for September, Wilhemina. Wilhemina has been on the New Orleans gay bar scene for many years and is probably one of the nicest men you will ever meet. He has a demeanor that is welcoming and warm. He is a true New Orleanian, both in his hospitality and service. There is something to be applauded for such a long and successful career in this industry. Not only is Wilhemina’s personality a sellover 100 sd events ...from 48 2pm-6pm, saluting Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl with Dancers, Michael’s on the Park 3pm til, The Boys of Montreal join the famous Corner Pocket Boys Dancin’ on the Bar, The Corner Pocket 4pm, Hot GoGo Boys, 700 Club 5pm, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, $25, departs from Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann, 504.568.0717 for reservations 6pm-1am, Armageddon Pool Party, The Country Club 7pm til, Boys on Stage on the Pole, Rainbow Room 9pm, Closing Southern Decadence Party with Resident DJs Tim Pflueger, JRB, Bull, Brian Hartman, Devil on Ice and Robbie C. round out the weekend with illuminations by Johnny Eubanks, plus 16 hot Men of Oz Dancers featuring Adult Superstar Deon Monroe with appearances by Travis Irons & Blake Riley, Dance Club of the Year Oz 9pm, Hung Over & Broke with DJ Jayskee & Sean Michael, Bourbon Pub Parade Last Night of Decadence: Queeraoke with Wet Shirt & Karoake Contest, Kajun’s Pub Southern Decadence 2012: 2 Bars, 2 Dance Floors featuring Alan Goldberg, Goodboy, Tom Harvey, Blair Q, Karbination, Absent Hero & Silver, The Ninth Circle & Voodoo Bar
Bartender of the Month Wilhemina ing point, but his work ethic is superior. This man is a true bartender in every sense of the word. He recognizes regulars, makes newcomers feel right at home and handles a crowded bar with ease. With the unusual shape of the bar at the Golden Lantern, attending to customers in a timely fashion can be difficult, but Wilhemina does it with an unflappable flair. In this city, it is also a superior advantage to have someone with proven experience behind the bar. Let’s face it in the Crescent City, the cocktail is king. And we are always dealing with novices who think that being a good bartender is just mixing liquor with ice. It takes a lot more than that if you want to be a sought after commodity in the scene. You need professionalism, personality, and yes, talent. Wilhemina has all these attributes which makes him so popular with the locals. So make it a point to see Wilhemina at the Golden Lantern over Decadence. His cocktails will be just the thing to get your party started. Tubby's Golden Lantern is located at 1239 Royal Street.
Book Review
I
t gives me great pleasure reviewing my next book not only because it is an interesting read, but I also know the author personally. I am so proud of Steve Patrick and his initial novel The Mysteries of Jack the Ripper. Taking a fresh approach on the Ripper legend, Steve, writing as N.S. Patrick, gives readers a brandnew look at this historical mystery. The premise plays out with the catalyst being the murder of the first prostitute on August 31, 1888. Four members of the Polaris Club, a storied
and influential members’ organization, meet each week to play Whist, a card game similar to bridge. The Whist Alliance as they are called begin discussing the murders of Jack the Ripper and soon begin working with the police to help uncover a killer. As a mystery buff, I read voraciously through this wonderful entry into the genre. And, I was very pleased with myself that I was able to figure out the ending, but the twists and turns the story took were riveting. Written in the language of the time gave the book a more authentic feel. The book does start off a little slow as it lays the character groundwork, but once the murders begin, the novel becomes an intensely quick read as each death draws you closer to the startling conclusion. Patrick has woven a quite believable solution to the age old murders of five ladies of the evening in the Whitechapel area of London. This is how good murder mysteries are written and I look forward to Patrick’s sophomore novel The Murder of Wednesday’s Children. There has already been several book signings for The Mysteries of Jack the Ripper, but you probably can buy a copy at FAB and get Steve to sign it for you. He is always available and works tirelessly to help many causes in the gay community such the Gay Easter Parade, Gay Appreciation Awards and Pride. Add this book to your list of must reads for two reasons, the first being it is a noteworthy novel and the second is to support one of our wonderfully talented locals.
NOBA’s 2012-2013 Season of Dance
T
his city is very lucky to have the vast cultural climate we do. So I am very excited about the ballet’s new season. The New Orleans Ballet Association announced its 2012-2013 Season of Dance American Moves, celebrating American dance pioneers, visionaries, and legends. This season, five powerhouse companies showcase the unique history, diversity, and innovation of dance in America: the breathtaking physicality of Pilobolus; the sexy dancers of Ballet Hispanico, teaming up with the 19-member, Grammy Awardwinning Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra; the beautiful works of Jessica Lang Dance; the sleek and sharp dancers of Aspen Santa Fe Ballet; and the legendary Martha Graham Dance Company. The season kicks off with the gravity-defying, shape-shifting dancers of Pilobolus on October 20, 8pm at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. For over 40 years, Pilobolus has tickled the imagination and entertained the world by blending humor, mind-boggling movement and jaw-dropping athleticism that defies what is humanly possible. With a rich history of sold out performances and in-depth education residencies in
New Orleans, this troupe returns for the first time in almost a decade with a fun evening for the entire family. Continuing our initiative of pairing dance and music, Ballet Hispanico and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra bring a hot, Latin dance party to the Mahalia Jackson Theater on December 8, 7:30pm. The stage will ignite with the infectious rhythms of Cuban, jazz and big-band music and the stylish Latin social dances of Rumba, Salsa, Chacha, and Mambo. The result is a fiery evening that “makes you want to get up and dance” (The New York Times). NOBA and The NOCCA Institute are pleased to present the New Orleans debut of Jessica Lang Dance at Fred Lupin Memorial Hall on January 18 and 19 at 8pm and on January 20 at 2pm. One of the most sought-after American choreographers, Lang has created breathtaking ballets for such major companies as American Ballet Theatre and The Joffrey Ballet. Returning to Mahalia Jackson Theater on February 23 at 8pm, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, one of America’s great success stories that The New York Times calls “a breath of fresh air,” brings an exciting program that features some of the most dynamic choreographic voices in dance today. Closing the season on March 23 at the Mahalia Jackson Theater at 8pm, the Martha Graham Dance Company will perform in New Orleans for the very first time in the company’s 87-year history. Hailed as “one of the seven wonders of the artistic universe” (Washington Post), the Martha Graham Dance Company revolutionized American dance. A trail blazing genius, Graham captured the contemporary spirit of her time and created ground breaking works that continue to inspire and captivate audiences. The New Orleans program is highlighted by Graham’s masterpiece Appalachian Spring (1944), set to the famous Aaron Copeland score, and Panorama (1935), danced by New Orleans youth in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the NORDC/NOBA Center For Dance. NOBA is proud to welcome back two companies who, in the aftermath of Katrina, donated their services to help NOBA bring world renowned dance back to this great city. We honor and pay tribute to the generosity of spirit of Ballet Hispanico and Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, which not only constructed special programs to perform at Tulane’s Dixon Hall but also conducted workshops in schools throughout the city. In addition to their performances on the Main Stage this season, both companies will again partner with NOBA to provide a week of classes for our youth and families. NOBA season ticket buyers save up to 20 percent off the single ticket price by purchasing a season ticket package. The Grand Plus Series pack[continued on 53]
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under the gaydar ...from 50 age of all five events ranges from $109 to $445, while the Grand Series package, which includes all four performances at the Mahalia Jackson Theater, ranges from $68 to $425. The
flexible Build-a-Series package allows season ticket holders to design their own season package and starts at $51. Discounts are also available for students with a valid ID. Single ticket prices for Pilobolus, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet and Martha Graham Dance Com-
pany, and Ballet Hispanico are $20$125. The single ticket price for Jessica Lang Dance is $50. Season packages are currently on sale, and single tickets for NOBA events go on sale September 4. For more information on the upcoming season or
to purchase season tickets, call NOBA at 504.522.0996, Ext. 201 or visit www.nobadance.com. Single tickets may also be purchased through Ticketmaster by calling 1.800.745.3000 [continued on 58]
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big easy
papar azzi
Welcome to The Country Club
Lords' Beer Bust @ the Phoenix
Serving it up for Lords of Leather Beer Bust @ Phoenix
SDGM XXX Irish Mike & some of the CW Queens @ Voodoo Bar
Bartender Bobby welcomes you to JohnPaul’s
Wayne & Troy flank Miss Louisiana Leatherette C. Alice @ the Phoenix
Celebrating the Red Dress Run @ Napoleon’s Itch JohnPaul’s Paul & bartender Matt
POS (People of Substance) @ JohnPaul’s Beer Bust time @ the Phoenix
Ray ready for the Red Dress Run @ Napoleon’s Itch
Cocktailin’ with manager Neel @ Good Friends Bar
The Vue-May’s, Jim & Deja, @ JohnPaul’s
Society Page’s Orlando in for POS event @ JohnPaul’s
Show Bar of the Year Oz’s fab cast
Man of the Year Tommy Elias always a charmer @ Oz
Team Dextaci with new Miss Gay Louisiana America Dextaci (c) @ Oz
Buddy & Chris cocktailing @ Kajun's Pub
Blaine & Jose pose for a quick photo @ Kajun's Pub
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On The Circuit ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Kyler Landry, Tony Leggio
Bartenders Kerry & Nick welcome you to Good Friends
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under the gaydar ...from 53 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Everyone Get Ready for the Bend and Snap!
T
he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is delighted to present the New Orleans premiere of Legally Blonde the Musical on Thursday September 6 at Rivertown Repertory Theatre. Directed by Gary Rucker and Kelly Fouchi, this show is based on the movie. With choreography by Kelly Fouchi and Musical Direction by Tammy Mansfield, Legally Blonde the Musical tells the story of sorority star Elle Woods doesn’t take “no” for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her for someone “serious,” Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style. Come out for a night of raucous fun and a special prize will be given at intermission for the person who does the best Bend and Snap. Tickets are $30. Rivertown Repertory Theatre is located at 325 Minor Street in Kenner. For more information or tickets, call 504.415.6476.
You Go Girl, Broadway That Is
T
he Krewe of Amon-Ra is once again hold ing their annual show Girls Gone Broadway and this year it promises to be an entertainment extravaganza. The date is Saturday, September 15 in Back Hall A at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette. The evening is filled with wonderful performances of your favorite Broadway tunes by the lovely men and ladies of the krewe.
Tickets are $30 for the dinner and show. Doors open at 7pm for the dinner with the show starting at eight. For more information or tickets go to www.kreweofamonra.com or contact Michael Strickland @ stricklandne@aol.com or 504.638.6643. [continued on 60]
Nex t Am bush De a d l i n e : T u e s d a y, Se p t . 4 t h Ca l l 5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9
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Let’s Get Decadent with the Lords of Leather
T
he Lords of Leather once again bring you a racy event over Southern Decadence entitled Decadent Behavior: The Down and Dirty Party on Saturday, September 1 from 7 – 10pm upstairs at the Phoenix. There is a clothes check available so that should give you a clue on the flavor of the night. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door and it includes open bar of well drinks and domestic beers. For tickets, go to www.lordsofleather.com, but get them early because they always sell out. The Phoenix is located at 941 Elysian Fields.
Who Will Be The Next Prince of Perversion?
O
n Friday, August 31, the Radical Faeries present their Prince of Perversion Ball 2012: The Ass Menagerie from 9pm till. Come out and see who will reign supreme as the Prince of Perversion this year; and I can promise it will not be Jake Gyllenhaal. Coronation happens at the stroke of midnight, but the party rages way into the wee hours of the morning. The event will be held at Café Istanbul in the Healing Center located at the corner of St. Roch and North Rampart Streets. There is a $10 donation suggested at the door, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Costumes and fetish wear are recommended, but gloves and tail is requested.
Party Down
T
he city is filled with excitement as it gears up for Southern Decadence. But there were still lots of things occurring. Because my work schedule kept me from many things this week’s column may be a little scant. My two week jaunt of events began on Thursday when I went to the open house of The Riverview Room. If you have not been to this party spot located in Jax Brewery, it is a spacious and elegant venue overlooking the mighty Mississippi River. My friend Alison who is one of the sales directors along with the entire team there put on a wonderful reception as they reintroduced the location to the hospitality community. The food was delicious which is to be expected since the company also owns the New Orleans School of Cooking. Next time you are looking for a cool place to hold an event, check out Riverview Room. The following night was very laid back; I just had my friends Beaux and Barrett over for dinner. It has been a while since I have hosted a dinner party but I had forgotten how much fun it is. On Saturday, I painted the town very red by starting with having friends over
to my house for cocktails then venturing into the Quarter for Dirty Linen Night. Although this year I was highly disappointed on the new changes, which now has the drinks being sold in the street as opposed to given out gratis in the galleries. That is what made Dirty Linen better received than White Linen Night for me, because it was about the galleries. Now once again an organization has decided to make a profit off an event and in doing so ruined the entire reason the stroll was created. That being said, some great galleries held fast their opposition and turned their places turned into party scenes. Again it is a shame because I never left those places to check out anywhere else because of the new format. Freddie Guess Studio was the place to be as you sipped on lovely margaritas. I also enjoyed Gallery Orange, Fifi’s, Rinard Gallery and Prima Donna’s Closet. After the walk, my friends and I partied in the Quarter starting at Good Friend’s; then moving to Oz and Napoleon’s Itch. I ended my night with a nightcap at JohnPaul’s before calling it quits. On Sunday, Halloween New Orleans threw another one of their fabulous host parties in the Men’s Department of Sak’s Fifth Avenue on the third floor of Canal Place. This was an incredible way to spend a Sunday evening; surrounded by men while you sipped on cocktails and shopped. The delightful Stephen Putt from Sak’s knows how to host an event from the live male models to the free flowing libations. It also did not hurt that there was a sixty percent off sale and an additional 25% on top of that on already marked down items. Score, I got some great buys! They made my Sunday Funday by having the three things I love the most in one place gorgeous guys, shopping and cocktails. Now that is a party. Afterwards I met some of my friends at another Sunday dinner party at Albert Carey’s condominium. Once again the evening was exceptionally nice and we had a special guest, the director from the Tennessee Williams Festival in Provincetown (read about it later in article) who kept us pleasantly entertained. On my way home, I stopped at JohnPaul’s and caught the last half of the People of Substance’s show. Those men and women know how to throw down. They had some very good performers who I had never seen before. The next week went by uneventfully but I did take some clients out to dinner on Wednesday night to one of my favorite restaurants in the city, Le Meritage in the Maison Dupuy. As expected, the food and service was outstanding. One of the things I wanted to mention is about their bar and casual dining restaurant Bistreaux. We had drinks there before dinner and they [continued on 66]
mobile
papar azzi
The crowd goes wild for Willam Belli from RuPaul’s Drag Race
Cast member Jawakatema
Our own Venus Shante Da Vis Willam live on stage
Drag Race
Miss Cie getting those $$$
Cory with former Miss Gay Louisiana America Bambi Bextor
DJ Chromatic pumping out the party mix!
The crowd gearing up for Willam
RuPaul’s Drag Race’s Willam Belli with Miss Cie
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The WillamShow & More! @ B-Bob’s ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Richard Bridges, John & Miss Cie
under the gaydar ...from 58
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French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
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] 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] 1135, 1135 Decatur St. 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 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, KajunPub.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 MICHAEL'S ON THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, MichaelsOnThePark.COM NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 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 RAINBOW ROOM, 632 Bourbon St., enter thru Fishbowl
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
ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com
book stores
hair salons
New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 MR. BINKY'S NEW ORLEANS, 2441 Paris Rd., 270.9900
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 SPA ATLANTIS, 536 Bienville St., 522.3318, SpaAtlantis.NET
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]
groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416
hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465
circuit/events
lodging/accommodations
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
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 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
costumes New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 SOUTHERN COSTUME COMPANY - 951 Lafayette St., 523.4333, SCCNOLA.COM
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
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,
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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 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 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, www.bigeasymcc.com, 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 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, 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 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
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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 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; Deanies.COM 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 NOLA Poboys, 908 Bourbon St., 522.2634 Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans 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 LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662
SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167
spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com PLANET BEACH, A Contempo Spa, 301 Burgunday St., 525.8266, PlanetBeach.COM SPA ATLANTIS, 536 Bienville St., 522.3318; 740 Gravier, 566.8088, SpaAtlantis.NET
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
tours New Orleans, LA [504] GAY NEW ORLEANS WALKING TOUR, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann St. , 568.0717
websites OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, SouthernDecadence.COM
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under the gaydar ...from 60 had a talented young (and very good looking) guitarist performing. Acoustic musician Aaron Lopez-Barrantes performs every Wednesday through Saturday. You need to check him out; he performs both contemporary music as well as classics. That night he did an impressive mash-up of Somebody That I Used to Know with Hotel California. On Friday, some friends and I traveled Uptown to Phillip’s located on the corner of Cherokee and Maple. Their Friday Happy Hour has been extended until 8pm and has become a predominantly gay clientele. If you have never been, it is it well worth the visit. There are so many new faces; love college starting. But then you get the opportunity to meet the queens who never venture downtown. After a few of their fabulous martinis, some friends and I returned back to our stomping grounds and had a few drinks at several of the Marigny bars before retiring for an early evening. My Sunday Funday started with my new neighbors throwing a little afternoon reception to get to know the people in the hood. I thought it was a lovely idea, and so rare to see people doing that these days. That is why I cherish the Marigny, we are more than just a neighborhood; we are an eclectic community. Afterwards, I went with my friend Chris (aka Barbara Ella) to Oz for Petronius’ Queen of Desserts sweets auction and drag show. They had a lot of decadent goodies, and I am always a sucker to help out a good cause. So a banana cream pie went for only $25, so I decided to help them raise more money. Whoever bid the highest got to throw the pie in my face, sort of like taking a whack at Weeza Boudreaux. Who knew it would get so lively? So $285 later I received a very tasty pie in the face. Anything to help my sister krewes. The rest of the day just got sweeter, after cleaning up, Chris and I headed to Good Friends for their piano sing-along upstairs. They had a sprightly crowd and the show tunes were coming fast and furious. Then we went to Rampart Street for Michael’s On The Park's one year anniversary party. It was a celebration indeed as Mike had a delicious spread laid out for his guests. I also had a few of my favorite shots that Mike makes especially well called the Lunch Pail. I am not sure what is in it, but it is mighty potent. Next we bounced to karaoke with Rikki Gee and DJ P at Good Friends, Dingo and the Calendar Boy contest at Oz and finally Trash Disco at Lafitte’s. It was quite a full day before coming home and resting. With Decadence just around the corner, I need to prepare myself for many full days. I hope all of you are
ready to get Decadent. Have fun out there.
Travel Spotlight
I
f you love to travel like I do, then you know that sometimes you build your vacation around an event. From time to time, I will let you know about some gay happenings around the country you might be interested in attending. There are two noteworthy ones coming up in September. The first is Gay Pride in Austin on Saturday, September 22. The Austin PRIDE Rainbow Run kicks off all the festivities that day with a 5K (3.1 miles) race at 8am through the streets of downtown Austin. Starting at the intersection of Riverside Drive and S. 1st Street, the race route will cover two laps leading runners across Lady Bird Lake and up to the 4th Street Warehouse District. This year’s run will finish with a RAINBOW EXPLOSION party at the finish line. This promises to be the best post-5k party in Austin, as each participant will be given a bag of “Rainbow Magic” color powder* and a challenge to see how much rainbow color a body can hold! The party will also include a DJ, food, and a health and wellness vendor expo. Immediately following the run will be the Austin Pride Festival from 11am6pm at Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E Segovia Street. The Fiesta Gardens is located on the beautiful, shady shores of Lady Bird Lake and will have a carnival atmosphere. In addition to the rocking entertainers on the main stage, the 2012 Pride Festival will feature carnival themed games and activities, a second stage of DJs, carnival performers, a pet parade, children’s area, numerous local food vendors and over 100 booths featuring local businesses and non-profits that support Austin’s LGBTQ community. This year’s entertainment line-up includes Peaches with Special Guest Hosts Manila Luzon and Sahara Davenport, Wigstock founder Lady Bunny, 80’s singing sensations Stacey Q and Shannon, 90’s dance-pop duo La Bouche, Drag Racers Chad Michaels and Willam, bounce artist Nicky da B, Chloe, DJ Lori Barbero of Babes in Toyland, Mouthfeel, Ginger Snaps, Ruby Lamb, Sabra johnSin, Miss Gay Austin Kara Foxx-Paris, DJ Danny Cardiel, Kelly Kline, and many more. At 8pm, the biggest event of Austin Pride, the 2012 Austin Pride Parade returns in the evening with a new route starting at the Capitol and proudly marching down Congress Avenue and through the 4th Street Warehouse District. For more information go to http:// www.austinpride.org or like them on Facebook. The second event is the Tennessee Williams Festival in Provincetown from September 20 through the 23. It
is a global theatre festival on the tip of Cape Cod celebrating one of America’s greatest playwrights. From the parties to the plays, this is one festival well worth attending. It even has a New Orleans connection this year with some of the costumes from Armeinius being set on display. For more information on the schedule and tickets, go to www.twptown.org.
Tony’s Tidbits of Wisdom
K
now your gay history; it can come in handy one day. With Southern Decadence upon us, I thought you might find this column most enlightening. I remember hearing once that in the seventies, handkerchiefs or bandanas were used to let people know you were gay, cruising and what you were into sexually. I was a mere child, not part of any scene let alone the gay one back then, so that concept was a mystery to me. I thought the handkerchief language was an urban legend like the man with the hook for a hand or Bloody Mary. That was until recently when I went to a fun country western themed party for people in the hospitality industry where bandanas were given out as a keepsake to the guests. I thought it was cute, so I shoved one in my back pocket. After the party I went out, met a nice guy, hit it off and went back to his place. Everything was going very well when he asked about my experience in a certain area. Now I am not a prude and do not knock anyone who does this, but honestly I was not about to shove my forearm into an unknown gaping hole. I cannot even watch on the Fishing Network when those guys stick their arms under logs to grab an oversized catfish, so you can imagine the idea of fisting made me go pale. Then he asked me about another subject and once again I said not my cup of tea, tea bagging maybe, but water sports no. When he finally asked me about the final thing and I turned it down, he became frustrated. I was confused about the reason he was so mad. I am not sure but the things he wanted me to participate in were not your average first time meeting subjects. He told me in a very angry tone that I should not wear the handkerchief which means I was not into those things. Wow, it was true, now I hate to think that the guy with the hook hand is really out there. After explaining to him about the bandana, we went through the list of color codes and finally settled on one we both would be comfortable with trying. But I still felt like he was mad at me for false advertising. So I dumped the bandana immediately. But I thought you might find it interesting to know what the colors mean. I looked it up and could not believe the list was so vast. First let’s begin with the side the handkerchief is
on. Wearing the bandana on the right side of the body indicates one is a “bottom” (considered passive in the practice of the fetish indicated by the color of the handkerchief). The leftright reality is taken from the earlier practice of tops wearing their keys on the left belt loop and bottoms on the right to indicate being a member of the leather subculture. In the past bandanas might be worn tied around the neck (with the knot positioned on either the left or right side); around the ankle (when wearing boots or when undressed); or on other parts of the body. I know sounds quite confusing. This is only a partial list; the full list would take up too much room. Also I am not sure how accurate this list is, but I got it off an online website for gay cowboys, so it seemed legitimate to me. Here goes the list: Apricot: Wants Overweight Person Black: S & M Black Velvet: Will or Wants to be Photographed Black with white Stripes: Prefers Black Men Air Force Blue (now that is really picky): Wants a Pilot Light Blue: Oral Sex Dark Blue: Anal Sex Blue with White Checks: An Exhibitionist Robin’s Egg Blue: 69 Brown: Scat Charcoal: Latex Coral: Sucks Toes Fuschia: Spanking Grey: Bondage Green: Hustler or Prostitute Lavender: Likes Drag Queens Leopard: Into Tattoos Camouflage/Olive: Into Military Orange: Anything/Anytime/Anywhere Light Pink: Into Dildos Purple: Piercing Red: Fisting Yellow: Water Sports Rust: Cowboys Union Jack: Skinheads White with multi-colored dots (my favorite): hosting or looking for an orgy So the color I had on that fateful night was orange, into everything anytime/anywhere. God bless you oranges out there, to be as sexually free as you takes a lot of skill. And from the length of this partial list it really does mean that. So here is to you finding your right bandana boy, or don one yourself. It pays to advertise, just pray you do not find someone who is color blind. Have a happy and safe Southern Decadence. If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.
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a community within communities
by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
DECADENCE and DODWELL HOUSE
“
If you obey all the rules you miss all the fun,” said that sultry and spunky ingénue Katharine Hepburn. So a friend was leaving town, it is said. His group got together and did a pub crawl from bar to bar around the French Quarter. He was missed and so on the anniversary of his departure he returned because it was so much fun being with his friends and enjoying life for just the sake of it. Again, it was a pub crawl and friends and new friends joined in. Soon on that date around Labor Day some bars started offering drink specials and doing some decorations. That was years ago. After Katrina several other bars above the “lavender line” started jumping on the band wagon. The party expanded beyond St. Ann Street. It has now become “an event.” It is second only to Essence in summer time economic impact. Some of the locals who remember the day seem a little pushed out. It isn’t quite so local anymore and it certainly is more than a pub crawl. But is Labor Day weekend and what day better than to celebrate the “common man/woman.” Labor Day is all about working folk and perhaps in New Orleans it might as well be about working folk who are LGBT and having a good time. Like everything else in New Orleans we add our own spice to it. So what we have is a layered event that says or can say many things to many people. How we play that out may make a difference. A friend of mine, who I have written about before, likes to just go down to the Quarter and people-watch. He is amazed that attendees from all over the United States will join in the celebration doing things that they would never ever do in their own respective cities. He pointed out as an example “butt exposed chaps” as a favorite for out of town attendees. As a priest, I cannot in honesty say that I agree with or endorse all that goes on during Decadence. Nor would you expect me to. Who wants a priest where everything is ok and nothing is out of line? I wouldn’t. But what I can buy into and what I do celebrate is celebration itself. Did you know that traditional Christian faith celebrates or sets aside feasts on virtually every day of the year (yes even several Feasts happen in Lent, like Feast of St. Joseph or St. Patrick)? Celebrations are when we humans are often at our best and sometimes worst. When we celebrate and become so frenzied that we push the limits,
what is good and fun-filled, by working out our anxiety and anger, like riots in Chicago after the Bulls won the championship. Well, that is sad, very sad indeed. But celebrations where the worst that will happen is that a queen might swish, a bare butt chap might pass by, but all are happy and, dare I say it, gay. Well that is the sort of celebration that we humans do and should do well. Such celebrations are not an excuse to do dangerous things, like get so drunk you wake next to someone you don’t know. It is not an excuse to ‘step out’ on a lifelong partner, nor is it a reason to have unprotected sex. Yes, I know AIDS is all but over. But NO IT’S NOT and IT CAN STILL MAKE ONE VERY, VERY SICK. Celebrations are about life lived big even if our everyday life isn’t so big. Yes, Jesus celebrated in many ways. More like that first pub crawl perhaps; small dinners and gatherings from town to town always with a meal and fellowship. He taught along the way about freedom and love and integrity. He taught about radical acceptance and profound new ways to understand God. Like a pub crawl, he wandered with friends and made new friends. Maybe Decadence isn’t my thing but what is my thing is that we remain sane, smart, and celebrate the love we can and should have for everyone. Yes, it’s not our own little party anymore it’s a big, big party. The bigger the party the more demand there is for tolerance, care, respect, and deep appreciation for the uniqueness that each of us bring into this world. Who knows, maybe even that guy with his butt hanging out might just be a guy we can say is finding his place in a world that otherwise would cast him out fully clothed. Heck, maybe it is his way of rebelling against bigotry and hatred. If that is so then well, maybe just maybe he has a place that is safe to do that in. In the end no burned up cars, no smashed windows, no trampled crowds; just a hangover or two, a street filled with glitter; sagging balloons; and some fond memories of another safe and almost sane Decadence weekend. May the peace of God that passes all understanding be with you now and forever more. AMEN And remember we do need donations to help Anna’s Arts for Kids and the Dodwell House Community Center (a center for all people). Just contact St. Anna’s by calling 504.947.2121 to find out how to make a donation. Maybe a pub or two can do a Decadence – Dodwell challenge!
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on the prowl by Rory Wright Email: rorywrightinnola@hotmail.com
A New Club of Renegade Bears
W
hat better place to inter view one of the found ing members of the newly formed Renegade Bears of Louisiana than Café Lafitt in Exile on Bourbon Street, the oldest gay bar/club in North America. Duaine Daniels hails from Montgomery, Alabama and began visiting New Orleans in the early eighties. He is a graduate of Auburn University, where he received a Bachelors of Science degree in Criminal Justice. He is two courses away from completing an Associate Degree program in Fire Technology from Delgado Community College. Duaine’s professional career started in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he worked for the Broward Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff for over ten years. He then relocated to New Orleans in 1997, where he worked briefly for the New Orleans Police Department.
He has worked for various security firms and together with his partner, owned his own bar for four years. He is currently employed by the New Orleans Fire Department, where he has worked since 2001. In 2012, he was promoted to the rank of Captain. He is also employed part time with the Marriott Hotel and the Mercedes–Benz Superdome. As is common with a lot of mature southern bears, Duaine got married in 1985 and had a daughter in 1986. He was divorced in 1991, and began to explore his new life and while doing so, discovered the bear community. "I wasn’t quite sure what a 'bear' was. I was lucky enough to discover BEAR magazine and through it met a friend who introduced me to the Girth and Mirth organization. I attended my first bear event in Orlando in 1995. I have a wonderful group of friends all across the country as a result of that trip." It was in 1997, during his relocation from Florida to Louisiana that he took a side trip to Chicago for Bear
Pride and met Ron Schofield, the man who has been his partner for 15 years. They were married in 2010 in New Hampshire, and registered for domestic partnership earlier this year in New Orleans. We then talked about how the Renegade Bears came to be. "There has been talk about starting a new bear club here in the city for several years now. We have a pretty large bear community here and there is more than enough room for another club. We have had multiple Mardi Gras krewes, leather organizations and many different clubs here for years, so why not a new bear club. Many in the bear community are looking for different ways to socialize and want to belong to a group. They are looking for friendship, loyalty, camaraderie, and a way to give back to the community. We believe we can offer all of that and more. We are not in competition with anyone. We want to become a part of the city, not apart from it. Many of the groups and organizations have already welcomed us with open arms. The Lords of Leather allowed us to hold our meet and greet/membership drive during their beer bust on August 10 at the Phoenix." Duaine shared a letter he sent out after the event which saw many new members sign up. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every person
who helped to make our Meet and Greet Membership Drive a great success. Our thanks goes out to owner Clint Taylor and the great staff at the Phoenix, for allowing us to have our event there, and special thanks to Eric for the jello shots and Chris for the
great gumbo and cornbread. The Lords of Leather were the wonderful hosts for our event, and made us feel welcome. Thank you Ben, Pat, Sal, John, King Ed and the entire krewe for your friendship and great spirit of brotherhood. The great food we served at our event was prepared by Kenny Falco of Pride Catering. We have relied on Pride Catering in the past for several events and he has always provided great food and excellent service. Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to the friends, clubs, krewes and organizations who attended our event and gave us their support. Thank you all so much for coming to the party and we hope you all enjoyed it as much as we did. Our [continued on 72]
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trodding the boards
reVIEW...books, movies, cds
by Brian Sands
by Blanche Email: ambushreview@aol.com Photo by Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
The Stage Door Canteen at The National WWII Museum
W
hile many of our other local theater venues have been taking a little hiatus during the summer, The Stage Door Canteen at The National WWII Museum has been offering a variety of shows with
nary a stop. Last month, I had the honor of being a judge for a Stage Door Idol preliminary contest, an experience made even more delightful as I shared the judges’ table with two of the most talented and fun ladies in New Orleans, Becky Allen and Leslie Castay. We each picked a different singer as the winner and so the audience broke the tie, choosing my selection, Erica Fox, who went on to the Finals. Coming up September 7-9, will be The Rat Pack Now, a celebrity tribute show featuring Robert Hoose, Jr., Art Poco, and Dezhon Fields as, respectively, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.; if you squint, they kinda look like their prototypes. Twenty classic songs and lots of old style humor provide their material. Seen last year, Rat Pack Now captured the schoolboy bonhomie these fabled entertainers shared. If Hoose’s Sinatra comes off best, Poco’s Martin is not far behind playfully keeping an audience guessing as to how
sober, or not, his Dino is. More a dancer than a singer, Fields captures Davis’ body language, which he displays to touching effect in Mr. Bojangles. On September 14 and 15, Glenn Miller: In The Mood returns with its 17piece Victory Big Band recreating 18 of the famed bandleader’s biggest hits such as Moonlight Serenade, Chattanooga Choo Choo and, of course, In the Mood. The Canteen’s center section gets cleared of its usual tables and chairs,
on the prowl ...from 70
pick places we have not eaten at before. We have had as few as five people too as many as thirty-five attend. It allows all to experience something new as well as meet new friends. Fundraising and community involvement will also be a part of who we are. Ron and I use 'Steak Night' as a fundraising tool. For twelve dollars, you get a ribeye steak; all you can eat baked potato and salad. We have used the dinner to raise money for different organizations." We talked about some of the other fundraising and charitable activities. "The Christmas Wish List is a benefit for Lazarus House, Belle Reve and Trinity House. We ask the residents to make up a list of things they really need and also to make up a list of things or items they don’t necessarily need but would like to have. We then go out into
membership now stands at 24 and counting. We look forward to being a part of our wonderful diverse community. If anyone needs our assistance with anything, please do not hesitate to ask. We want to give back the support and welcoming spirit we have already received in our brief existence." We talked about the form of the club and how it got started. "We are registered, and trademarked with the state, so our foundation is the same as any other group. Where we are a bit different is that we will not have officers. We are taking a page out of the playbook of an organization located in the Mobile / Pensacola area, the Southern Renegades and got a lot of support and assistance from our friend Darwin from Florida. Myself, my partner, Ron Schofield, and our dear friend, J. Kelley Terry, a member of Mwindo, are the founders of Renegade Bears. Kelley is a former ball captain, three times president and King IV of the Krewe of Mwindo. We can take care of the day to day responsibilities, keeping it simple. Movies, dinners, social events near and far will be the order of the day." We discussed current activities and future plans. "We currently are involved in something we call Alphabet Soup. We pick different restaurants alphabetically throughout the city to enjoy. We try to
[continued on 74]
Founders Duaine Daniels & J. Kelley Terry flank Lords of Leather Lord King Ed Azemas
Well the big weekend is finally here. Congratulations to Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVIII Pat McArdle and TJ Conard, may your reign be supreme. Also, may you be spared that other kind of rain. I hope everyone has a festive time and the Quarter sparkles with costumes and glistens with hot, sweaty, naked bodies. Speaking of SPARKLE, the 2012 remake of the 1976 movie is out. This one is directed by Salim Akil and produced by Stage 6 Films. Whitney Houston is listed as executive producer. People will see this movie for many reasons; the main one should be because it is good. Whitney Houston fans will see it because it is her final feature film role. She passed February 11, 2012, three months after filming ended. Whitney burst onto the music scene in the mideighties and was a major force and huge talent for years. I was into rock and roll, punk, and new wave but there was no ignoring Whitney. She was fresh and so talented. This was also when MTV played music videos and she had a great one for every hit. You also couldn’t go to a drag show without “seeing” her. Her voice is deeper in the songs she sings in SPARKLE, but she still shines. the community and contact Individuals, businesses and organizations who pick from a list of residents at these facilities and buy the resident presents which are wrapped and given to the residents for Christmas. The response is always wonderful and heartwarming. Above all else is the idea that no matter what we do, we do it as friends and strive to keep the lines of communication open. That way, everyone enjoys the ride." We discussed how interested people can contact renegade bears. "Renegade Bears of Louisiana can be reached by email, on Facebook and soon at a new website. Those interested in participating or who want to know about upcoming events, can e m a i l Renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com, or contact and message Facebook at RenegadeBearsofLouisiana.
Jordin Sparks fans will want to see it because this is her debut in a major motion picture. She was the winner of American Idol in 2007 when she was 17. You would want to see SPARKLE for the performance of Carmen Ejogo, who plays Sister. She steals most of the movie. She is a British actress who has had a few film roles but has concentrated on the stage and television. SPARKLE is the story of three sisters in search of stardom in late 1960’s Detroit...the Motown era. Each sister has different reasons for their quest. Sparkle (Jordin Sparks) wants to be a successful songwriter and she has talent. Delores (Tika Sumpter) is the brainy and defiant one, she wants money for medical school. Sister (Carmen Ejogo) is the older sister, as much sexy as she is self-destructive. She has had to return home and she wants out. Emma (Whitney Houston) is the mother. She had her taste of stardom in her youth and was burned bad. She is now a Detroit businesswoman; a church woman who only wants the straight and narrow for her daughters. She also comes off as a bitch for most of the movie. Stix (Derek Luke) is Sparkle’s boyfriend. He is also the groups (Sister and Her Sisters) manager and propels them into local stardom and a possible record contract. Satin (Mike Epps) is a local stand-up comic with lots of flash. He sweeps Sister off her feet and leads her down a path that is anything but straight and narrow. “Sister and Her Sisters” musical numbers are hot, full of sexy outfits and staging...vintage Motown, just over the top. I don’t think Berry Gordy would have let Diana Ross dress this way. Some of the songs are from the 1976 original by Curtis Mayfield with new compositions by R&B artist R. Kelly. Not all the singing is done in nightclubs. There are gospel numbers featuring church choirs and Whitney. You almost want to look for Tyler Perry in a couple of scenes. There aren’t many movies where you say goodbye to music legend, Whitney Houston, and welcome a newcomer to the big screen, Jordin Sparks, all in less than two hours. SPARKLE will be known for that but it is also a fine film. We also meet Carmen Ejogo. The bigger this movie is, the faster her career will take off. SPARKLE is dedicated to the memory of Whitney Houston as well it should be. She produced and starred in it and the movie gives us one last look at a legend.
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trodding the boards ...from 72 and the audience is encouraged to get up and dance. And if these shows are anything like the performance I attended last August, there’ll be quite a few couples who not only think they can dance, but prove it with grace and style. Jimmy Murphy makes for a genial host, dispensing interesting factoids about Miller between the songs. Recently, the Canteen brought in Maureen Brennan and George Dvorsky for BROADWAY VETS: Two for the Road. Brennan debuted on Broadway in 1974 with a Tony nominated turn as
Cunegonde in the revival of Candide. Dvorsky first appeared on the Great White Way in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas in 1982 and, despite graying temples, remains boyishly handsome in a George Clooney kind of way with a fine baritone voice. There were a number of highlights—Dvorsky’s rendition of All I Care About (Is Love) made you want to see his shyster lawyer Billy Flynn in Chicago; having acknowledged that she was now an AARP member and had even purchased long term healthcare insurance (tho she doesn’t look like she’ll need it for a l-o-n-g time), Brennan did a sharp parody of Candide’s most famous song retitled Glitter and Be Gray; and there was a wonderful medley of duets they wished that had done together with inventive segues from one song to the next (Oklahoma’s Oh, What a Beautiful Morning into Too Many Mornings (Follies) into Tonight from West Side Story). But, despite a genuine warmth between Brennan and Dvorsky, too much of the hour-long show had a slickness one associates with acts on a cruise ship; a few digs at the late Rue McClanahan aside, one wishes there had been a little more dishing about backstage drama or something more deeply personal from two very talented people who never became above-thetitle stars (though Dvorsky is currently appearing in a just-extended off-Broadway revival of Closer Than Ever). And did we really need Olivia Newton-John’s I Honestly Love You even if Dvorsky idolized her when he was a kid? Or Brennan’s rendition of the Duke Ellington Bli-Blip which was cute but nothing more? Or the well-done but soso song from The Scarlet Pimpernel even if Dvorsky shed blood, sweat and
tears during his understudy debut? Or the Me and My Shadow dance duet, not offensive but just kinda cheesy? On the plus side, Alex Rybeck provided his, as always, superb piano accompaniment. And while the Shrimp Bisque, filled with bits of diced potatoes, corn, & andouille, and the Short Cake with blueberries and strawberries, the appetizer and dessert from the three-course accompanying meal, were both very, very good, the two entrees—a Pan Seared Trout with Cauliflower, Chanterelle Mushrooms & a magnificent Tarragon Pesto and a tender Herb Crusted Prime Rib that epitomized what Prime Rib should be accompanied by Roasted Garlic Smashed Potatoes—were excellent. And the service would’ve made a five-star general proud. The Stage Door Canteen continues to present The Victory Belles in A Salute to Our Heroes, a show of patriotic music, on Wednesday matinees through the end of October, and Lullaby of Broadway, featuring hits from you know where, on Sunday matinees through September.
New in New York
I
f you’re heading up to New York for Labor Day (What? Miss Decadence??), there are a number of things that might be almost as entertaining as the festivities here. Of course, if you’re heading there after our celebration, you’ll have the best of all possible worlds. 54 Below may not be the best of all possible worlds but it’s pretty heavenly even if it’s below ground. This new cabaret venue opened in June in a space that, in another life, had been part of the famed Studio 54; the Studio 54 Theater sits above it. 54 Below bills itself as “Broadway’s living room; a home away from home for Broadway professionals and audiences combining grace and style in an intimate environment.” That’s no overstatement; with its capacity of about 150, the room is just the right size for a cabaret (think of our own Le Chat Noir slightly enlarged) but as all the tables are no more than 24 feet from the stage, nobody has a bad view. Designed by Tony Award winners John Lee Beatty (restaurant design) and Ken Billington (lighting), the overall look of 54 Below could be described as “a high style speakeasy” and it’s clear that a lot of attention has been paid to the details to give it an air of sophisticated chic. I recently saw Jackie Hoffman there, who’s less “sophisticated chic” than “gutter trash hilarity.” Starting with a great specialty number about appearing in the basement of Studio 54 (when they were renovating the place, they had to “chip the dried cum off the walls” was one of her more memorable images), this veteran Broadway actress (The Addams Family, Xanadu [continued on 75]
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trodding the boards ...from 74 and Hairspray) described how she “clawed her way to underneath.” Offering up an un-PC, take no prisoners approach, Hoffman, an innately funny lady lauded as the 33rd funniest New Yorker (out of 50), doesn’t care about burning professional bridges
even if eventually her “only hope is to perform at gay nursing homes.” With a voice like sandpaper that’s part of her charm, Hoffman’s targets range from women of the Upper West Side to the musical Wicked, along with a wicked impersonation of her 90-year-old mother condescendingly talking about her daughter’s career.
The show was sharply written by Scott (Hairspray) Wittman and directed by Michael Schiralli with musical direction by Will Van Dyke, a cute 29-yearold (so young, so talented). Featuring nonstop laughter, it was a model of what a cabaret show should be. Kudos also to the excellent wait staff who did what they had to do without ever getting
in the way. In the coming weeks, Linda Lavin (Sept. 17 & 23), Darlene Love (Sept. 24), and Patti LuPone (Sept. 18-22), among many others, will be appearing at 54 Below. Sounds like it’ll be worth a trip down under. [continued on 75]
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Candy Samples at Michael’s on the Park for Southern Decadence
T
he drag queen singer/ songwriter Candy Samples will be back in New Orleans serving up Sunday Services on Sunday, September 2 at Michael’s on the Park (834 N. Rampart) from 11:30am– 1:30pm. Produced by Decadent Duck Events, Candy’s show is a benefit for NO/AIDS Task Force Food for Friends. With her down-home demeanor and signature evening gloves, Candy has become a Southern Decadence fixture. Her show is in its fourth year and she has just released a new single, Bear Season, available as a digital download. This love letter to the bear community, is certain to give those burly boys—and those that love them— a smile. ”It’s my anthem to the bears. I love them and they’ve been so good to me, coming out to my shows, especially in New Orleans. I had to write something to show my appreciation to those fabulous fellas,” says Candy whose previous CD releases (Sample This!, Sample That! and Sweet Scandal), are also available on iTunes and Amazon.com.
trodding the boards ...from 75 A very different experience is on hand for those who make the trip down to the West Village to see Tribes at the Barrow Street Theatre where it’s been extended through January 6. This British drama by Nina Raine is about a family in which one of the sons is deaf. The father, an academic, has raised the son only to read lips; he was afraid
The Victory Belles in A Salute to Our Heroes Wednesday matinees through the end of October @ WWII Museum's Stage Door Canteen
that if Billy learned sign language he would become isolated in the deaf community. Tribes begins with Billy meeting a young woman, the daughter of deaf parents, who is going deaf herself; she teaches Billy to sign and eventually gets Billy a job in the local legal system as an expert lip reader of people in surveillance videos. While I appreciated the ironic conceit of a highly verbal family having a deaf son in its midst, as well as David Cromer’s imaginative, fluid direction aided by the atmospheric lighting of Keith Parham, Tribes ultimately left me a bit cold. Not only is the father an obnoxious bully, a trait his other hearing son seems to have inherited, but given that he’s highly intelligent (he’s teaching himself Mandarin), I was surprised that he would know so little about Sign Language, regarding it as a gestural way of communicating rather than the highly developed language it has been shown to be. After all, other than the French, deaf people are the only group who
refer to their language as a “beautiful” one. When Billy finally stands up to his family and refuses to speak to them until they learn how to sign was a thoroughly involving dramatic confrontation, but afterwards, as Raine brings mental illness and criminal charges into the plot, Tribes turns soap operaish. Russell Harvard, an actor who is hard of hearing, was wonderfully moving as Billy, though he was sometimes a bit difficult to understand through his “deaf accent”—I suppose that’s how the hard of hearing feel around hearing people. As his novelist mother who has “too much empathy,” Mare Winningham gave a charming, delicate performance. The rest of the cast were all good but very loud; while befitting their characters, I just wanted to yell at them “Shut up!” Maybe I just was in a mood to laugh, but I much preferred the boisterous comedy of One Man, Two Guvnors on Broadway. But you only have until Sept. 2 to see it.
Southern Decadence-goers should look for a brand-new video for the track playing in video bars throughout the French Quarter and Ms. Samples will be performing the song at her Sunday Services. Candy’s videos to If I Had Only Left (Two Shots Earlier) and Boy Crazy have all been Southern Decadence party favorites. In 2011, Decadent Ducks helped raise over $3,000 for Food for Friends and Ms. Samples is ready to make an even bigger and better splash this year. She’ll be passing the collection plate at Michael’s on the Park to benefit FFF along with offering raffle prizes and giveaways. ”I love to get my party on while at Decadence, but let me tell you it sure feels great to help the community,” adds Candy. “The people of New Orleans are like family to me and I am thrilled to be able to use my powers for good and give back to my brothers and sisters in need”. Sounds like a great way to kick off the day!
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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
New Orleans Restaurant Guide Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy
Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place
Custom Breakfast @ Krystal, 116 Bourbon
BBQ Shrimp @ Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie
Shrimp Poboy @ NOLA Poboys, 908 Bourbon St.
Eggplant Karniyarik @ Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130,
700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St., 561.1095, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM, is serving sliders, quesadillas, and more at the popular club in the French Quarter. Restaurant hours are 7pm til daily with extended Decadence hours. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM, is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 945.0742, TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. The chef has paid attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; Deanies.COM. Featured on the Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food,” Deanie’s signature BBQ Shrimp served the New Orleans way--jumbo head-on Louisiana Shrimp served in our unique blend of seasonings with a crusty baguette. For 50 years Deanie's has been serving huge portions of the best boiled, broiled and fried seafood in New Orleans. The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM is part coffee shop, part cafe, and part bakery. "We take pride doing all our own baking, and you can order your next special treat from us," says owners Matt and Kevin. This little neighborhood place will fulfill your sweet tooth or both your breakfast or lunch cravings in a quiet setting while serving "desserts like Mom use to make". Located across the street by the Armstrong Park arch, the cafe is open Wed.-Sun. 7am - 3pm. Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, 504.371.5074, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, is truly a fresh new restaurant with a 23-year history of serving New Orleans and guests from all over the world. Think of Fatoush as a combination coffee house, herbal teahouse, natural juice bar, and organic restaurant offering a unique selection of the richest and healthiest foods from around the world. Handcrafted dishes that contain only the finest natural ingredients and a variety of cuisines and innovative taste offfer thrills that are appealing, exciting, and best of all, healthy. Open 7am-10pm daily serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030. Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops for fast food with tasty burgers, hot dogs and breakfast. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place, 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM, is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers. Open 7 days from 11am-10pm. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Open Mon.-Thurs. 5-10pm, Fri. Sun. 11am-10pm. NOLA Poboys, 908 Bourbon, 522.2639, 522.2634, serves real New Orleans poboys with over 40 choices including spicy shrimp and sloppy roast beef, plus seafood baskets and plates, and numerous sides and salads. Where the locals eat poboys in the French Quarter with free delivery. Convenient store open late night on weekends. Hours 11am-12midnight Sun.-Thurs., 11am-2am Fri. & Sat. Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903, serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including Margaritas, Piña Colada, Daiquiris etc., all made using the freshest seasonal ingredients from local farmers and suppliers including local rum, Old New Orleans Rum. Open 10am-6pm daily. Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, is located in a beautiful renovated 1809 building offering a pleasant atmosphere, extensive wine list with 200 selections, and delicious food including soups, salads, appetizers, entrees and house made desserts that will delight any palate. Open daily at 4pm serving dinner Sun.-Thurs. 5-10:30pm, Fri.-Sat. 5-11pm. Prime Grille, 3162 Dauphine, opening soon Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET, voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year, is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night menu, the deli offers free delivery.
World Famous Hamburger @ Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St.
12 oz. New York Strip with maitre d'butter & pommes frites @ The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.
New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.
Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.
Club Sandwich with Zapp's Potato Chips @ The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart St.
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