Ambush magazine volume 25 issue 19 by Ambush Publishing

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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain RipandMarsha.COM E-mail: info@ambushmag.com

2007 Southern Decadence Sets New Record: 135,000 Participants, $150 Million Economic Impact

he 36th Official Southern Decadence celebration of gay life, music and culture was up over 2004, the record setting year prior to Hurricane Katrina. The 2007 event brought out an estimated 135,000 revelers including visitors and locals alike. The economic impact on the city could very well exceed $150 million, based on a conservative spending average of $800-$1,300 per person. However, many visitors Ambush spoke with were spending from $1,200 to $2,500 per person including hotel, dining, shopping, services, event fees and nightlife. In 2004, attendance was estimated at 125,000 with a $100 million economic impact on the city. Cancelled in 2005 due to Katrina, the following year, 2006, was down, bringing in an estimated 75,000 revelers with an economic impact of $60 million. Ambush contacted most of the GLBT businesses following the holiday to find that business was up tremendously over last year. The publication was interested in learning how 2007 compared to 2004, the largest year on record. In the majority of cases business was higher than in 2004 and remained the same in others, which translated into an 8% increase over 2004. Some businesses were up as high as 50% while others were up from 10-25%, and very few remaining at 2004 levels. Participants were not confining themselves to only one area of the French Quarter this year. Many visited different establishments throughout the French Quarter, CBD, uptown, and the largest jump in business was experienced in the Faubourg Marigny/Bywater area of the city. Many gay friendly businesses showed their support of the giant celebration flying pride colors over their establishments and advertising in Ambush and at SouthernDecadence.COM. Both shopping and dining establishments were up considerably as well this year. Additionally, participants visited more museums, art galleries and the casino while booking more historic tours than in previous years. The community, including Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXIV Electra City, Guadalupe and Marcus Martinez, worked closely with the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Police Department 8th District in order to ensure that both visitors and locals alike would have a safe and fun Southern Decadence. In the weeks prior to Southern Decadence, SouthernDecadence.COM and AmbushMag.COM brought in over 150,000 unique visitors to it’s websites. SouthernDecadence.COM is the Official Website of Southern Decadence in New Orleans dedicated to the preservation of the history and traditions of Southern Decadence since 1972. Ambush Mag is the Official Southern Decadence Guide. This publication flew off the shelves of distribution points throughout the city. Even though Ambush put out an additional 2,000 editions for New Orleans, the mag’s number one distribution point, Dance Club & Show Bar of the Year, Oz, 800 Bourbon St., went through over 3,000 copies. Most other distribution points were out of Ambush by the end of the weekend. 2008's Southern Decadence 37 is set for Wed., Aug.27-Mon., Sept. 1, 2008.

34th Southern Decadence Parade Brings Thousands to the Streets; 14th Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss Enjoyed by the Multitudes

outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXIV Electra City, Guadalupe and Marcus Martinez led the 34th Official Southern Decadence Parade through the streets of the French Quarter bringing thousands out for the spectacle. The grand marshals dedicated this year's Southern Decadence to the late SDGM XXVI Robin Malta. After addressing the crowd at the Golden Lantern, the grand marshals headed down Royal Street where thousands of spectators waited in anticipation. Many of those joined the parade as it went by from Royal (The Golden Lantern) to St. Louis

inside

Gay History Month Edition Out: Tues., Sept. 25 DEADLINE: Tues.., Sept. 18

AMBUSH/main leather/bear decadence pics/nola 6 thrillusions, on the board 12 celebrazzi/cartoon 14 sd parade paparazzi/nola 16 sappho psalm 20 trodding the boards 20 order sd dvd 2007 21 sd parade paparazzi 23 chop chop, cookin' w/auntie dee 24 sd highlights paparazzi/nola 26,27 clubs & krewes 28 survivors bar crawl paparazzi/nola 30

e-mail, letters the big diva one last song EXPOSE/center austin paparazzi capitol comments/austin baton rouge paparazzi hot tails of red stick/baton rouge lafayette paparazzi allons acadiana sd showgirls & celebs pics/nola classifieds sd parade paparazzi

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(Le Roundup, Double Play, The Corner Pocket) to N. Rampart (Society Page, Ninth Circle, Starlight) to St. Ann (Rawhide, Good Friends), and to Bourbon (Napoleon's Itch, Oz, Bourbon Pub, Ambush Headquarters), ending at Cafe Lafitte in Exile. Immediately following the parade, the 14th Annual Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss was hosted at Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street, by the Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha. SDGMs XXXIV Electra City, Guadalupe and Marcus Martinez, and some in their entourage tossed some 30,000 beads, compliments of Ambush, Costumes by Derek and SouthernDecadence.COM to the revelers in the street below.

Official Southern Decadence 2007 Posters Still Available; All Sales Benefit Belle Reve

ow did you like the fabulous Official Southern Decadence 2007 Poster depicting the ritual sacrifice of Electra City? The official posters are 11" X 17", do not include the Bud Light logo, and are suitable for framing. The cost for each poster is $20 unsigned, $30 signed by SDGMs XXXIV: Electra City, Guadalupe & Marcus Martinez, plus a $5 S&H fee per order (single order for multiple copies pay only once). All proceeds benefit Belle Reve, a New Orleans-based facility providing assisted living for Louisiana adults and families with AIDS or HIV-related infections. To place an order, simply e-mail: decadenceposter2007@yahoo.com. Prompt delivery provided!

Even Rain Can't Stop 3rd Annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza hosted by Napoleon's Itch

ven though a torrential downpour delayed the 3rd annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza, Napoleon’s Itch brought Southern Decadence its third free street concert. Producer/Emcee Chuck Robinson pulled off this year's feat bringing four major acts to the street stage on Bourbon at St. Ann directly in front of Napoleon’s Itch. Thousands in the streets with many others on area balconies had an excellent view. The enormous crowd went absolutely wild with performances from headliner Deborah Cox, Jeanie Tracy, Fredrick Ford, and Mat Jordan. Between acts, the hot men of Napoleon's Itch tossed t-shirts and give-a-ways to the crowd. Napoleon’s Itch is already planning to make next year’s event even larger giving something back to Decadence visitors and locals alike.

Leather/Bear Decadence Brings Thousands of Revelers to the Marigny

eather Decadence, the leather block party, hosted by Lords of Leather and Leather Bar of the Year, the Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields, brought out thousands of revelers participating in this packed event. The giant block party brought out vendors and organizations alike, but inside the Phoenix, revelers were wall to wall. The Lords of Leather hosted the 2008 Mr. Louisiana Leather contest at Howlin' Wolf on Saturday with Michael Albracht of

GulfSouthEntertainment/TravelGuideSince 1982 • Texas-Florida OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] E-mail: info@ambushmag.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 • 1.504.522.8047 ANNUAL READERSHIP: 650,000+ in print/3.5 Million+ On-line NATIONAL CIRCULATION: USA... Alabama-Birmingham, Mobile Florida - Ft. Lauderdale, Miami/South Beach, Pensacola • Georgia - Atlanta Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson Texas - Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Eustace, Galveston, Houston, San Antonio, South Padre Island STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 LESBIAN/POLITICAL ISSUES Toni J.P. Pizanie, New Orleans TEXAS SALES REP Garry Holley • 512.291.1563 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands, Patrick Shannon AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Bob Hemby-Austin, TX Brad Benedict-Baton Rouge, LA Patrick Clinton-Lafayette, LA Miss Dee, Donnie Jay, Douglas Minich -New Orleans Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL CARTOONIST Kevin M. Butler NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media~212.242.6863 AMBUSH Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip NaquinDelain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: info@ambushmag.com. 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.

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New Orleans taking top honors. Albracht will represent Louisiana at the International Mr. Leather competition in Chicago Memorial Day Weekend 2008. Bear Decadence produced by the New Orleans Bear and Bear Trapper Social Club had events throughout the weekend kicking off Thursday with the Bear Beer Bust at Rawhide. On Friday, it was the annual Sire Ursus Contest at New Orleans Leather where Juan Tarzia was named Sire Ursus 2007. The Bear Breakfast closed out the weekend on Sunday with the Best Bear Beard, Chest, Belly and Butt contests at the Phoenix.

Events Galore Treat Visitors to the Best of Decadence

very visitor and local alike should have been able to find something to their liking this Southern Decadence with events galore. Wednesday kicked off the holiday with [continued on Main-8]

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photos: Doug Minich, Red

paparazzi

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Leather Decadence Block Party, Bear Decadence, Skylar Fein Art Show hosted at the Phoenix ~ New Orleans

ambush

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the "official" dish ...from Main-4 the 3rd annual Generator Party at Cutter's celebrating Katrina survival. The Guttah Girl camp drag pageant was won by Derisha Jenkins at Oz. The Corner Pocket hosted their annual SD Wet Jockey Shorts contest which brought 24 contestants to the stage, and ultimately the bar. Thursday brought us the first annual Fetish Ball at Rawhide crowning Devon as the first King of Decadence, the USDA Prime Beef contest at Good Friends and the Dick of Decadence contest at Lafitte's. Tomatillo's hosted their Southern Decadence show featuring SDGMs XXXIV Electra City and Guadalupe. Friday saw the Playgirl Model Search at The Country Club and the opening of Levy Easterly's The Grand Marshals of Southern Decadence art exhibition, September Artist of the Month Bradford Mohr's Opening Reception at Cutter's, and Naked Boys Singing opening at Theatre Marigny. The Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Drag Show brought the Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha, SDGM

XXXII Donnie Jay and Phyllis Denmark to the Golden Lantern stage to emcee. Cowpokes hosted Tittie Toulouse and her outlaw gang of drag queens following the beheading of Electra City by Toulouse, while Tomatillo's hosted Back That Ass Up Dance Party. Oz brought circuit great Roland Belmares to the booth along with resident DJs Jason Lanoux and Tim Pflueger for the dance crowd, and Starlight hosted the Starlight Revue. On Saturday, there was a huge flurry of activities including Country Western Night at Cowpokes, Banji with celebrity DJs at The Country Club, Back That Ass Up Dance Party 2 at Tomatillo's, circuit great Alyson Calagna at Oz, the Zoo Revue starring SDGM XXXI Rusty LaRoux at Big Daddy's, and SDGM XXXIII Regina Adam's Gumbo Revue at Starlight. Sunday brought the All Day Pool Party at The Country Club, SDGMs XXXIV Brunch and Makeup Party at The Friendly Bar, Miss High Hair contest at Good Friends, Crescent City Divas and Tittie's Murder Trial at Cowpokes, and two Decadence Spectacu-

lar shows hosted by Marcy Marcell and jaded Jade at Starlight. Cutter's brought us Harry Mayronne, Becky Allen, Chris Wecklen and Anais Patterson live. Oz closed out the evening with circuit great Phil B. and a performance by Jacinta live. Monday was Recovery Day at The Country Club, and circuit great Joe Gauthreaux at Oz. In between was the 10th annual Official Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by guest cruise directors the Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha traveling from The Corner Pocket to Double Play, Le Roundup, Society Page, Ninth Circle, ending with a fab barbeque at Starlight By The Park.

DecaFest 2007 Wraps on High Note

he Second Annual DecaFest concluded Labor Day with morning walking tours and a lunch and demonstration of Louisiana cuisine preparation at the New Orleans School of Cooking that participants called “the high point of our visit to New Orleans.”

The 2007 festival built on last year’s offerings, adding comedy and music to theatre, films, tours and dining experiences. DecaFest Co-producer Roberts Batson said that the Robin Tyler show was the bestselling event this year: “This shows the women of our community that DecaFest is totally inclusive.” Co-producer Cynthia Hebert reported that attendance exceeded last year by 40%. Batson noted that major national LGBT press attended many DecaFest 2007 events. Among the media represented were Out Magazine, here! television, PlanetOut.com, gay.com, Frommer’s, and local print and electronic media in New York, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, Los Angeles, Toronto and Montreal. “The writers took in the Southern Decadence Parade, ate in some our finest restaurants, and for four days, were immersed in New Orleans culture. They all commented favorably on our city and our community, which can only have a positive effect in drawing more LGBT visitors.” Batson thanked major festival backers, including the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, Wood Enterprises, Ambush Magazine, PFLAG, the NO/AIDS Task Force, American Aquatic Gardens and Gifts, Dillonwood Productions, The Equality Forum and the New Orleans HIV/AIDS and LGBT community organizations who joined as festival partners.

Order the Official DVD of Southern Decadence '07

on't forget to order the Official DVD of Southern Decadence '07 covering the festive street action throughout the weekend in the French Quarter. Ambush Mag and SouthernDecadence.COM has teamed us with NewOrleansGoneWild.COM to present the exciting and colorful highlights. The DVD is $19.95 plus $2.50 shipping and handling. Order on-line at NewOrleansGoneWild.COM.

18th annual NO/AIDS Walk Sun., Sept 16

ew Orleans - Why should you walk? At this point, it’s apparent that HIV/AIDS is a huge global issue. The World Health Organization has recently reported that nearly 40 million people are living with the virus worldwide. Many people think there’s nothing that they can do about a problem that is so large and widespread. In fact, there is a lot that can be done. The easiest way to make a difference in the AIDS epidemic is to act locally. On Sun., Sept. 16, NO/AIDS Task Force is giving everyone a chance to help fight this epidemic on a local level at the 18th annual NO/AIDS Walk. By raising funds and coming out to Audubon Park on Sept. 16, you are helping to fund vital services and programs that help stem the tide of HIV and AIDS. Prevention programs educate people about how to protect themselves from contracting and spreading HIV. Primary medical care and social service programs help the men women and children living with HIV and AIDS stay healthy. The funds raised through the NO/AIDS Walk not only benefit these types of programs at NO/AIDS Task Force, but also other AIDS organizations [continued on Main-10]

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the "official" dish ...from Main-8 around the state through the Walk Share Grant Program. There are persons living with HIV in every parish in Louisiana and this number continues to increase each year. To date, there have been over 26,000 people diagnosed with HIV and AIDS in Louisiana, making it the 6th highest state in AIDS case rates nationally. New Orleans and Baton Rouge have been the two hardest hit cities in the state, both of which rank in the top ten of affected metropolitan areas nationwide. There are at least 26,000 reasons to walk on Sept. 16, but why will you walk? With the help of a $5,000 grant from Cable Positive’s Tony Cox Community Fund (TCCF), NO/AIDS Task Force has partnered with Cox Communications to produce public service announcements to educate the public on why participation in the 18th annual NO/AIDS walk is so important. The PSAs feature prominent members of the community explaining why they are walking this year. Dr. Milton Seiler walks because over 26,000 people have been diagnosed in Louisiana alone. Fran Lawless, from the Mayor’s Office of Health Policy walks because she knows that education is the best defense against this disease. Pam Creath, a local realtor walks in memory of her son who lost his battle with AIDS. Jimmy Chase, a peer advocate with NO/AIDS Task Force, who is also HIV positive, is walking because he is committed to staying healthy for his wife and kids. Kim Boyle, a local attorney and former judge, is walking because the discrimination that people with HIV/AIDS face is only hindering the battle against this epidemic. These are only five of the many reasons that people have for walking each year. There are a million reasons why you should. But more importantly, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t. So, gather your friends, family and coworkers together and come out to Audubon Park on Sept. 16 and show your support for all those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.

The PSAs, which have already begun airing, can be seen on Cox Communications extended cable channels from now up until the Walk on Sun., Sept. 16. To register for this year’s walk or to donate go to www.noaidswalk.com. Further information can be obtained by calling 504.821.2601.

Oz Host Benefit for Burglary Victim & Resident DJ Jason Lanoux Sept. 22

z New Orleans is hosting a benefit for resident DJ Jason Lanoux on Sat., Sept. 22 from 8pm-6am. Lanoux's home was burglarized and then set on fire loosing most of his music collection and personal belongings. Special guest DJs include Chad Guidry from Houston, Alyson Calagna from Miami and Joe Gauthreaux from New York. Donation is $10 at the door. All VIP members are encouraged to make a donation at the door.

Satyricon Sponsors Opening Night of New Ricky Graham Show, Oh, Kaye!

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon will sponsor the opening night of cabaret star Ricky Graham’s newest show, Oh, Kaye!, The Songs of Danny Kaye, with musical director Jefferson Turner, on Thurs., Sept. 27, 8pm, at Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave. Tickets for this production only are $25 and may be obtained by calling 504.525.4498. For all other shows, please call Le Chat’s box office at 504.581.5812.

Graham Images Internet Shop Now On-line

eaturing over 80 quality products including men and women’s clothing, greeting cards, posters, coffee mugs, t-shirts and clocks, Larry Graham’s brand new Internet Shop, is up and running at www.CafePress.COM/GrahamImages.

The products all bear the beautiful and often sensual photographs created by the renowned photographer, just in time for most all your holiday shopping. The T-shirts for instance, are high quality, fitted, and made proudly in the USA. When asked which of the new products were his favorites...”The T-shirts and coffee mugs!” This year Graham released a new line of images titled “Coloured Drag Queens,” a category featuring many of local celebrity, actor/director and former Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Donald (Donnie Jay) James. Two other new and beautiful lines are the, "New Orleans Men," and "New Orleans Women." Autumn will be a great time to use the custom BBQ aprons with never before seen nudes, florals and humorous scenes shot in and around New Orleans. “I plan to update the shop constantly with new products and images as well as using it to introduce the new, 2008 Nude Mardi Gras Poster.” This poster features some of the city’s most beautiful men. Products from Cafe Press are guaranteed and shipped in two days.

Rainbow Ghetto Exhibition Runs thru Sept. 29 at Farrington Smith Gallery

arrington Smith Gallery opened its fall season with Rainbow Ghetto, a group exhibition celebrat ing the visual gay culture of New Orleans and beyond which runs through Sept. 29. Rainbow Ghetto features over 40 works culled from an open call for artists to submit visual pieces exploring life, love and lust in the gay world. Equal parts pop, pomp and circumstance, the show includes local photographers Louviere + Vanessa, Stephen Forster, Jen Shaw, David Halliday, M.J. Brown, Jennifer Shaw and Charles Lathem; painters Brad Caldwell, Perry Morgan, Skylar Fein, Edward Herbert, Todd Perley, Mark Bercier, Chris Slave, Scott and Melanie Guion, Peter Wood, Josephine Wallis, Kevin Butler and the obsessive comic adventures of local illustrator Roscoe. Mixed media work from Todd Shaffer, Madeleine Molyneaux, Sean Neary, Eden Gass, Adam Farrington and Scott Smith is also included. Artists from outside the region include photographer Michael Alago (NYC) whose solo exhibition Rough Gods will be presented at Farrington Smith in October, painter Kathrine (continued on Main-12)

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in the spotlight by Brian Sands

E-mail: bsnola2@hotmail.com

THRILLUSIONS to debut at Harrah’s New Orleans Casino

n September 13, Harrah’s New Orleans Casino will be home to the world premiere of THRILLUSIONS, a music, magic and dance spectacular featuring world-renowned magicians and illusionists Philippart and Anja. Local businesswoman Hollie Vest created the show in which the internationally acclaimed pair will be presented to America for the first time. “I met Philippart and Anja in 1997 in Sun City, South Africa,” says Vest. “Since then, I have been on a 10 year quest to bring them to the U.S.” Having fallen in love with New Orleans, first through the movies and then after visiting the Crescent City, Vest moved here in 2001 and bought, restored and transformed the Magnolia Mansion on Prytania and Jackson Avenues into a bed’n’breakfast/ wedding reception venue. By opening THRILLUSIONS in New Orleans, Vest wants to create something that “can be a part of the city’s recovery. It is my hope that THRILLUSIONS will attract world class travelers to the city for something that they can see nowhere else in the world.” Vest, whose background is as a singer/ entertainer, doesn’t want to spoil any of the surprises that THRILLUSIONS offers and in a recent interview gave away little about the show except to say that with its “energy and outrageousness it is a perfect fit for New Orleans.” She did reveal, however, that within the overall extravaganza were tributes to two rock’n’roll legends, Tina Turner and David Bowie, plus 10 dancers who back up Philippart and Anja. Though Philippart and Anja have not performed in America before, these illusionists have graced the stages of Europe, Asia and Africa for years. “We could not be more excited that this fascinating duo is making their U.S. debut at Harrah’s New Orleans,” said Jim Hoskins, senior vice-president and general manager of Harrah’s New Orleans Casino and Hotel. “They are known worldwide for their amazing talents and we cannot wait to bring their phenomenal act to audiences here.” Vest’s excitement about THRILLUSIONS is palpable. “The show has an edge and a European avantegarde feel that perfectly matches New Orleans’ history and vibe, and plays off the energy that the rebuilding of this city is generating.” This 85 minute magical, mystical, musical journey plays Thursday-Sunday through October 7 at the Theatre at Harrah’s New Orleans. With Halloween coming up, however, it is entirely possible that Philippart, Anja and all the other tricksters of THRILLUSIONS might treat us to many, many more months of performances.

on the boards THE BEIGNET PLAYS. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812 — Eight 10-minute plays by local playwrights use Café du Monde as a setting. David Hoover directs James Bartelle, Ed Bishop, Michael Cahill, Louis Charles, Sean Glazebrook, Lisa Picone, Ashley Ricord, Diana Shortes, Mandi Turner and James Yeargain. Tickets $25, $15 students with ID. 8pm FridaySaturday. Through Sept. 22. THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS. Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre, 616 St. Peter St., 522.2081 — Cowboys, hookers, hypocritical evangelists and corrupt politicians. Sound familiar? Derek Franklin & Sonny Borey direct the Tony Award-winning musical. 8pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. September 21-October 14. BLESS YA BOYS. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812 — A loving, irreverent look at our New Orleans Saints. With Will Schneider, Christian Bordelon, Tom Hassinger, Barry Lemoine, Shane Palmer & Jenny Meyer. Tickets $20. 8pm Tuesday. Through Oct. 30. THE BREACH. Southern Rep Theatre, The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., third floor, 522.6545 — Written collectively by three playwrights (Catherine Filloux, Tarell McCraney & Joe Sutton), this drama weaves together three tales of those who were left behind after Katrina and were forced to fight for their survival. Ryan Rilette directs Troi Bechet, Kenneth Brown, Kesha Bullard, Bob Edes, Lance Nichols and Sean Patterson. Tickets $16-$26. 8pm Thursday-Saturday, 3pm Sunday. Through Sept. 30. BURY THE DEAD. St. Mark’s Community Center, 1130 North Rampart Street, 891-6815 — The Cripple Creek Theatre Company presents Irwin Shaw’s classic anti-war play. Tickets $10. 8pm Thursday-Saturday. Through Oct. 20. THE FANTASTICKS. Playmakers, 19106 Playmakers Road, Covington, 985.893.1671 — Off-Braodway’s longest-running musical. Jennifer Harageones Patterson directs Shawn E. Patterson, Chris Abide, Wendy Morell and others. Tickets $10-20. 8pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. Through Sept. 30. 504. Anthony Bean Community Theater, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave., 862.7529 — A musical play written and directed by Anthony Bean about displaced New Orleans youths coming together to sing, dance and talk about what it truly means to miss New Orleans. Tickets $18, $16 students &

seniors. 8pm Friday-Saturday, 3pm Sunday. Through Sept. 30. THE GAME SHOW. Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans, WTIX-FM Building, 2nd floor, 4539 N. I-10 Service Road, Metairie, 456.4111 — A spoof of quiz shows written and directed by René J.F. Piazza that has the audience playing along with the contestants. Tickets $18, $16 students/seniors. 7:30pm Thursday-Saturday, 2:30pm Sunday. Through Sept. 22. GOOD GRAPE HUNTING. Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse, 1540 Lindberg Drive, Slidell, 985.781.6565 — Paula Hilton’s comedic murder-mystery. $40 per person (includes dinner and a glass of wine). 7pm Friday-Saturday. Through Sept. 22. NAKED BOYS SINGING. The Marigny Theatre, 1030 Marigny St., 218.8559/948.9608 — New Orleans premiere of the delightful, longrunning off-Broadway show featuring, well, the title says it all. Tickets $25-35. 8pm FridaySaturday, 6pm Sunday. Through Sept. 30. NOTHING LIKE A DAME: THE WOMEN OF ROGERS & HAMMERSTEIN. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812/453.6581 — Ricky Graham directs vocalist Amy Alvarez and pianist Jefferson Turner in an original cabaret show. Tickets $26 (includes $5 drink credit). 6pm Sunday. Through Sept. 23. NUMBER’S UP! Sidearm Gallery, 1122 St. Roch Avenue, 218.8379 — From desolate Alaska, an neo-vaudeville ode to the glorious awkwardness of being. Headliner El Macho Del Norte has wandered off, leaving his overwrought sidekick dreadfully alone. Written and performed by John Leo. Tickets $4-8. 8pm Saturday-Sunday. September 29-30. OH KAYE! THE SONGS OF DANNY KAYE. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812/ 453.6581 — An all new show celebrating the career of Danny Kaye, who gained international fame in nightclubs, Broadway, the West End, and Hollywood. Tickets $29 (include $5 bar credit). 8pm Friday-Saturday, 6pm Sunday. September 28-Ocotber 14. THE QUEEN OF BINGO. Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre, 616 St. Peter St., 522.2081 — Becky Allen and Sandy Bravender star in this long-running comedy hit. Call theater for times/ prices. Through Sept. 16. THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT VARIETY SHOW. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812/ 453.6581 — Jim Fitzmorris, Aimee Hayes, Sean Patterson, Cammie West, Evan Prizant, Morla

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the "official" dish ...from Main-10 Thompson (NYC), mixed media artist Lewis St. Louis (Raleigh), and 77-yearold self-taught artist, Martin Forman, an outpatient at Christian Huygen’s Rainbow Heights Club, a Brooklyn, NY LGBT mental health community clinic. Rainbow Ghetto is dedicated to the late Jim Lyons, film editor (Safe, Velvet Goldmine, Far from Heaven, The Virgin Suicides), actor (Poison, Postcards from the Edge, Frisk), writer, and activist who passed away this past April. Rainbow Ghetto will exhibit the script of A Short Film About Andy Warhol, a project that was to be Jim’s debut film, as well as clips from his work A concurrent Rainbow Ghetto film on Sept. 28th entitled A Night of Jim Lyons will feature a screening of POISON (1991) and a reading of A Short Film About Andy Warhol. Farrington Smith Gallery is located at 2514 St. Claude Ave. For more information, please call the gallery at 504.942.8600.

Photograph ©Steven Forster This photograph of Ambush Publishers Rip Naquin and Marsha Delain by New Orleans Award-winning Photographer Steven Forster originally premiered at The Academy Gallery in New Orleans in the group photography exhibition Moments in Time: New Orleans at the Crossroads. The photograph then went on to travel with the exhibition to Tarragona Spain by the Mediterranean Sea for the 14th Annual Dixieland Jazz Festival in Tarragona. The photograph is now being shown in the Bywater at the Farrington Smith Gallery, 2514 St. Claude Ave. in the group exhibition Rainbow Ghetto. Rainbow Ghetto is a group show with multi media works including painting, sculpture, photography and video. As curator Scott Smith said, “Rainbow Ghetto is a group exhibition by a broad range of gay artists and artists who are not gay per se, but sure love the gays they know. No haters yo, that’s not our scene down in the Rainbow Ghetto.” Gallery hours: 12-5 Saturday and by appointment by calling the gallery at 504.942.8600.

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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

he first Guttah Girl Southern Decadence Camp Drag contest was hosted at Oz by Kabrina Watson, Sable Nicole Starr and Blanche Debris who brought winner Derisha Jenkins, and runner-ups Teryn Toola, Cookie Moses and Ursuline Burgundy to the stage.

he Susan Lucci's of Southern Decadence, Marsha and Rip, flank The Big Diva, Phyllis Denmark, opening the annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Drag Show with Amy Winehouse's song Rehab, bringing the house down at the Home of Southern Decadence, The Golden Lantern.

outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXIV Electra City, Marcus Martinez and Guadalupe led the 34th annual Southern Decadence Parade through the streets of the French Quarter celebrating gay life, music and culture. The grand marshals dedicated this year's Southern Decadence to the late SDGM XXVI Robin Malta. Ancient Truths, Lies & Sacrifice was the 2007 theme and the grand marshals had a huge entourage in tow. Guadalupe, a professor at Tulane even had many of his students in the procession. It was one of the most colorful parades ever hosted with thousands lining the streets in anticipation. The 36th Official Southern Decadence event set a new record bringing in an estimated 135,000 participants with an economic impact of $150 million plus.

he Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha hosted the 14th annual Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss following the Southern Decadence Parade led by SDGMs XXXIV Electra City, Marcus Martinez and Guadalupe from the world famous Ambush balcony at 828 Bourbon Street. The trio tossed thousands of beads to revelers below courtesy of Ambush Mag, Costumes by Derek and SouthernDecadence.COM.

eborah Cox brought thousands of revelers to the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets for the 3rd annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza hosted by Napoleon's Itch. Her performance culminated an evening of electrifying entertainment lined up by producer/emcee Chuck Robinson. Even though rain delayed the concert, the show went on and on! In addition to Cox, live performances were also presented by crowd favorites Jeanie Tracy, Fredrick Ford and Mat Jordan. The free concert is Chuck Robinson's way of giving back to the thousands who celebrate Southern Decadence in New Orleans each year. Plans are already underway for 2008 and Robinson promises the 4th annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza will even be bigger and better.

hoenix bar baron Bobby Connell and manager Red Hanson flank artist Skylar Fein during the opening of Fein's The Lost Art of Henkin's Adonis exhibition hosted at the Phoenix.

omatillo's Luanne Nettles and Kim Ficaro hosted the Back Your Ass Up dance parties for women at the popular Mexican restaurant over Southern Decadence weekend.

irst runner-up Shane Tarr, winner Michael Albracht and second runner-up Philip Youngblood took top honors at the 2008 Mr. Louisiana Leather competition hosted by the Lords of Leather at Howlin' Wolf. Albracht will now represent Louisiana at the International Mr. Leather competition Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago.

he Susan Lucci's Marsha and Rip led the 10th annual Official Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl from The Corner Pocket to the Double Play, Le Roundup, Society Page, Ninth Circle, ending at Starlight for a fab barbeque.

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34th Official Southern Decadence Parade led by SDGMs XXXIV Electra City, Guadalupe & Marcus Martinez: Golden Lantern ~ New Orleans

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sappho psalm by Toni J.P. Pizanie E-mail: Psalmwrite@aol.com

I Don’t Get It

t is Labor Day afternoon as I make time to write before deadline consumes my time and plans. There were a plethora of great events the past four days but where were the locals— again. Most of the events in the French Quarter were attended by visitors. Thank you, tourists. I expected full support of DecaFest by the Lesbian community but that was not to be. I don’t get it. What more do the organizers have to do to get uptown queers to take part in supporting DecaFest? It’s quality entertainment. What more does Lords of Leather have to do to get Leather, Bear and S & M queers to attend the Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest? Please don’t blame this on Katrina because there are enough people back in town to do the difficult work of planning. I spent a little time at each, and am thankful for the huge out-of-state attendance. It seems like for every five people I talked to, three were visitors. The Lords of Leather had five people sign up for the contest on Friday night with only one from New Orleans. Where’s the pride, New Orleans? The annual Friday night block party beer bust at the Phoenix was well attended but I still thought the numbers were off a little. The night was warm with a pleasant breeze off the river so strutting their stuff in leather wasn’t as miserable as it was the year before. I opted for jeans. I don’t know if this is accurate but I heard that the Lords made an all time cash high for charity from the sale of beer. But let me back up a few hours so that I can thank those of you who surprised me with birthday wishes on-line. Friday morning before being treated to lunch by Julie Thompson and Loraine Crosby, I opened my e-mail to find seven greetings from Ambush readers. Now that I get – I believe that people are good hearted and the people that I meet in the community always say nice things about my column. Perhaps they are just being sly rather than truthful but I’ll take it. The most good-hearted friend I have today is Julie who never forgets to include me in events and always remembers me on special occasions. For a very busy woman, Julie is generous with her time to everyone who needs her kindness. We spent two hours laughing and chatting at Little Tokyo on Carrollton. The sushi was delicious and if sushi is something you like, you should try Little Tokyo. For good company, invite Julie, Loraine and me. Saturday morning found me back at the Phoenix for the question and answer session of the Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest. That is when we learned that two of the Mobile, Alabama contestants had sobered and decided not to show up. That was unfortunate as Sean Sutton and John Cauley were very different in looks. Yet both were very handsome as well as well built. One was in the Navy but don’t ask. Saturday evening at the Howlin Wolf the three remaining contestants made

their stage appearance. Although Michael Albracht, an architect living and working in New Orleans stood out as bright, intelligent and handsome, I didn’t think he would steal the show until he walked on stage the first time. Then I was sold. For me the contest focused on second place, and it was almost to close to select. Shane Tarr of Fort Lauderdale, FL and Philip Youngblood of Ohatchee, AL were attractive and spoke well on behalf of themselves. In the end, all five judges gave Michael a near perfect score. My thanks and congratulations to Lord’s president Ernie O’Steen for another successful contest. Special thanks to Gary and Tim. Gary took on the difficult job of coordinating the event and did a great job. Entertainment at the contest was recording artist Ausie David Pace. Although his home is now Texas, his accent is strictly Down Under. Princesse Stephaney also shared her flare for keeping the audience delighted. She says she is tired of drag; a statement I don’t accept as she always has new material and always looks great. There was little time on Saturday to enjoy DecaFest at the CAC as I had accepted the position of judge at the Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest months before. I heard that what I missed was a great performance. I am looking forward to next year. But let me back up—on Thursday evening, Julie and I had enjoyed a fabulous short film and the exciting Gay Men’s Chorus. After which the audience enjoyed champagne and mixing with the entertainers, and in true New Orleans tradition we second lined around the CAC theatre. Jade was even more attractive in person. His pictures do not do him justice. And as cute as he is that is also how well informed and personable he is – he is a gift to our community. Unfortunately, the brilliant Robin Tyler was delayed and was in flight somewhere between east Texas and the New Orleans International Airport thanks to delays and weather. Sunday was the most exhausting day of the holiday weekend – church, lunch, parade, drinking and generally doing more than my old body was capable of doing. And all this time I was trying to keep up with the US Open which thankfully was in the first weekend of competition which lasted well after midnight. Yes, I understand that you are tired of my tennis obsession so I will not go on and on about James Blake or Andy Roddick except to say that my enthusiasm was dampened when Blake lost in the fifth set of round four. My hope now is for Roddick but how realistic is that. I am looking forward to the production of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night: The Drinking Game. The company of legitimate actors is visiting from New York City. The producer Ian Schoen is the Godchild of Fr. Michael Des Jardins thus the church has also served as rehearsal hall for the production. Ian is a graduate of NOCCA.

And just one closing mention about tennis. Al Hardouin and I will be happily attending the Charity Tennis Match: Martina Navratilova vs Monica Seles at the New Orleans Arena. That is if I can figure out how to print our tickets which are paid for but not in hand. Thank you, TicketMaster for this additional problem on top of $20.50 for fees that seem nonsensical. If we do get our tickets, we will be

sitting just seventeen rows from the floor. I am very excited. I saw Martina in what was hyped as her last doubles match in 2006 at Wimbledon. They lost but still she was great. This is a wonderfully busy and exuberant time of year. Summer is finally coming to an end so let the fun begin. See ya out and about, and don’t forget to sign up for the NO/AIDS Walk.

trodding the boards by Patrick Shannon, III E-mail: nedcat@earthlink.net

Naked Boy Singing!

ost of us know that song from the musical Gypsy sung by one of the three strippers that begins, “You gotta have a gimmick, If you ain’t got a gimmick....” well, the musical revue currently on stage at the Marigny Theatre has not one, but six gimmicks, all of which are visible throughout the song and dance numbers performed by a cast of talented men who have the balls to let their gimmicks dangle and bounce around for all to see. And why not, I guess. Of course when one has seen as many as this reviewer (yeah I was a short arm inspector for the U.S. Coast Guard) it becomes not that exciting, but to dangle ones dingle under spotlights for about an hour and a half is quite a gimmick and a little unnerving to say the least. Nervous giggles from much of the audience, especially the ladies. And a few lesbians who may be seeing such gimmicks under spotlights for the first time. So, Marigny Theatre and To Do Productions has another hit on its stage and this time with gimmicks. The review is directed with the touch of a master under the hand of one of our town’s most talented and professional of Musical Directors/Director Jonne Dendinger, who also designed the sparkly and witty set. There is clever lighting by Timm Holt and just a yard of so of costumes by our marvelous Mistress of All Stage Works, Donnie Jay. With this line up of front line techs one quite naturally assumes a good show will be performed. And one is not wrong to assume such. The first act gives us several song/ skits such as the opening number, Gratuitous Nudity of which the lyrics declaim, “Which you have all come to see....” and you get your first full frontal shot of extended male nudity in all its varied wobbling, trembling, wrinkled and ironed, thick, thin, long, short, fat, well nestled or not, hanging from the mid section of 6 healthy virile looking male specimens. At first it brought to mind those sex ed films shown in Coast Guard boot camp....”and now we have the male penis which as you can see hangs above the testicles...these have not been injured by any venereal disease such as the ones you are about to see in the next view...etc. etc. But in the case of this live and on stage showing the message is one of light hearted satire and parody all about the subject at issue, the penis. Jason George does a fine job dancing with broom and bucket, dust cloth and maids hat to the song The Naked Maid. It’s always a pleasure to see this young

Photo: Glenn Meche

talented actor in the nude. He has a beautiful dancer’s body and other noticeable assets. My favorite in this first act is the song parody Bliss of the Bris, with very funny lyrics about the Jewish ritual circumcision. The song is done with a droll sense of perfect comedic timing by Philip Gordon in a baby diaper and the cast all dressed up to resemble various stereotypical Jewish family members including a Rabbi holding a large scissors. There is a touching song Window To Window that deals with love and yearning sung with a sensitive touch by Bryan Wagar to someone he sees and loves beyond his window. The love object is posed by Jason George. This act ends with three other songs which are about other aspects of male to male adoration. The second act presents us with some of the best numbers in the show, especially my favorite Perky Porn Star performed with bounce, bravura and charm by the well endowed in every aspect Philip Gordon. This is a delightful song and dance routine you won’t easily forget. The other seven songs are all well done by these brave let it all hang out cast members which included Julius Dietze (who sings a very touching love song solo beautifully) and Jason George, Philip Gordon, Marshall Harris, Travis Resor, and Bryan Wagar. Each of these star performers has his own solo and each does it with praise worthy ability and fine singing [continued on Main-22]

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trodding the boards ...from Main-20 voices. Each guy was able to do the excellent choreography very well all created by handsome Kevin Champagne. You might say they each have a moment to become cock of the walk on stage. If you missed Naked Boys Singing! during its long run in New York (it’s still running) now you get to see a fine version here in our town. Don’t miss this show. You can brush up on your anatomical knowledge rather than your Shakespeare and enjoy some very clever songs in a professional display of naked boys singing. It’s theatre in the raw and good for you, like veggies and whole grains. It’s a fun filled frolic of bare flesh served under a cover of spicy song and dance.

A Different Woman: A True Story of a Texas Childhood

got to see a last weekend perfor-mance of Veronica Russell’s one woman monologue of stories adapted by her from Texas teacher Gertrude Beasley’s controversial 1925 biography about how she pulled herself out of poverty and abuse in rural Texas. Even in a hot basement venue on St. Claude Avenue we were enchanted. Not only was the script excellent but Ms. Russell’s performance was a work of art. With fine direction by Perry Martin, this actress was able to hold her audience in a hypnotic grip for the entire 90 minutes of this touching monologue without a break.

I cannot praise this beautiful young actress enough. She was able to give a vivid performance of depth and nuance in her retelling of a tale that encompassed everything about human misery from poverty to bestiality to incest eventually resulting in the triumph of the human spirit and she did it with bravura. Every facial gesture, every body pose, every movement brought the wit, wisdom and humanity of Ms. Beasley’s sorrowful tale to life. It was an awesome experience and a theatrical triumph and another story telling event of high merit.

Fleeing Katrina: Inspiring Journeys of Survival

t was two years to the date of August 29 when hurricane Katrina exploded upon our town and I was despondent remembering that terrifying day as I saw sheets of tin flying off the roof of the wash room in my back yard in Gretna and heard the sound of the storm roaring around my rooftop with the noise of four jet planes flying at a low level. Yes, like so many locals I am still in shock. How could I possibly bring myself to see another play or read another item about that epic event? I was haunted and over dosed with those images of fear and horror. So it was with great trepidation and an unfair mind set that I entered Theatre Wego tp review Fleeing Katrina a monologue play in one act by Rob Florence. I had been greatly disappointed by previous theatrical versions of this event. I just did not know if I could sit through and pass judgement fairly on a subject that I had been subjected to in the local media every day over and over for the last 24 months. To use a phrase the character says in the first monologue from the play, “Katrina fatigue” yeah, I knew what that meant for better or worse, cliche or not. But this show had been well received when it was done in New York City at the Midtown International Theatre Festival so I thought it would at least be worth a look. Well let me tell you it was worth more than a look! Of all

the shows I have seen on this haunting subject this is the most definitive work to date. Author Rob Florence using the simple format of story telling lets eight evacuees of the storm do just that, tell their stories. Against the background of a large screen (one of the many fine hi tech jewels of Teatro Wego) the actors moved around the stage while awesome and stunning slides of the advance of the storm and the heartbreaking flotsam and jetsam of its passage were projected. While each of the actors, with the mastery of their craft and the magic of simple story telling shared their experience with us, we saw for ourselves the images of despair and horror. I think that the simplicity of the theatrical concept allowed the epic drama and heart rending events to glow, shine, and explode in such a way that it became a mesmerizing audience experience allowing the words to the psyche and engage our compassion and our total interest. Each of these actors were excellent bringing a believable nuance and moving effect to their roles: Bob Scully in Trauma Over The Top as an Acadian Ambulance personnel still reeling from what he saw and had to do, Rudy Rasmussen in Rudy’s Mom’n’Em. Mr. Rasumssen told his own story and he actually brought wit and humor to his tale, From Congo Square to the Convention Center performed by Wilbert Williams with scary effect, Stolen Crayons performed by Susaune Yee McKamey with a delicate sensitivity, Sammy and Sylvester done by Janet Shea as a little of uptown lady with a deft and touching expertise, Rights of Passage acted with a stunning realism by Michael Zarou, Sidney and Loli & Tucker & Todd performed by Phil Tracy with verve and The Way from San Jose performed by Harold Evans with a touching innocence. This excellent show was directed by the author Rob Florence with unsurpassed dignity. The high quality of this production should not be missed by anyone, especially by those like myself who had mistakenly thought he had seen and heard enough about this event. I was totally blown away, no pun intended!

Sadie & The Ant in Just Sing

f you’re expecting to see a stereotypical drag queen prance on stage at the chic venue of Le Chat Noir exploding with bursts and little explosions of light from a million sequins and enough make up to paint the naval fleet singing in a loud brassy style, forget it. Brian Peterson in his persona as Ms. Sadie Shepherd as a female chartreuse is a demure lady with a soigne stage presence. You could probably bring him home in drag to meet your Mormon parents in Utah, he’s so believable. Mr. Peterson, wearing a black fishtail gown with fringe on the hem, svelte black high heels and a platinum wig that looks like a sea of golden cresting waves a Hawaiian surfer might dream about does his cabaret act with style and class. In the once upon a time style of ancient My Oh My performers he sings in his own voice and what a fine silken voice it is. His range may be limited but he makes the most of each and every note he can use. He creates mini scenes with each song and sweeps up his audience with the apparent sincerity and charm of his performance. Never once does he raise his voice with any vulgarity

and his patter is always in good taste with just a tiny tiny touch of off color references. His version of the worldly wise cabaret canary is a voluptuous woman who knows how to sing a song with just a little wicked wink if necessary and a really lovely clear voice. Picture a somewhat downsized Mildred Bailey with bright yellow hair and a smaller vocal range. Accompanied on a magical electronic keyboard by the nimble fingered and talented Antony Ant Sears, his friend of 20 years, Peterson sings song an eclectic selection of songs that cover the 1930s into the 1990s. He opens his set with a sweet saccharine little song Sing by Joe Raposo from Sesame Street sliding into a Louis Prima hit, the hot to trot Sing, Sing, Sing. He takes to the audience singing a coy version of Let Me Entertain You at all times wearing a come hither smile that Colgate Toothpaste would probably pay a million dollars to use in a commercial. I especially liked his clever version of that old queen Cole Porter’s witty song Is It The Girl Or Is It The Gown which I will probably never see so appropriately done again. Of the several other songs Peterson sings with style and silk stockinged staged presence you won’t find one that fails. He gets them all just right in this 90 minute five star performance. The show was well directed by our own celebrated MOP (Master Of Performers) Ricky Graham with lighting by the ever bright and talented Su Gonczy. If you want to experience a really talented female illusionist Brian Peterson’s stylishly done cabaret act is the ticket. It was a sincere joy to see this brilliant performer create such a realistic character from his imagination with his well crafted theatrical talents. Sadie Shepherd is a Diva to be discovered! Brian yo mama was rite, hon, you do live in a fantasy world and I for one am so glad you were able to share it with us. This show is definitely something to just sing about!

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34th Official Southern Decadence Parade: Le Roundup, Double Play, Corner Pocket, Society Page, Ninth Circle, Starlight ~ New Orleans

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

New Orleans Restaurant Guide Bumpin' Tacos, 720 St. Louis, inside Sean Kelly's Irish Pub, is a great choice for those craving Mexican/American delights including quesadillas, salads, nachos, tostadas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos and even special dinners. Open noon til 7 days, the eatery offers carry-out, indoor seating and free delivery through late night. Call 565.7777 to order or for more info. Buffa's, 1001 Esplanade at Burgundy, serves breakfast 8am-4pm daily featuring homemade biscuits and sausage gravy, and real hash browns along with bacon, sausage, ham, eggs or omelettes. Lunch and dinner is also available here. Call 949.0038 for info. Bywater Bar.B.Que, 3162 Dauphine St., is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials. Hours are Mon., Tues. Thurs., Fri. 11am-9pm; Sat. & Sun. 9am-9pm. Closed Wed. Call 944.4445 for additional info. Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., offers romantic courtyard or indoor dining along with both eclectic culinary creations and drinks. Serving lunch and dinner: Wed.-Sun. 11am9pm, Sat. breakfast 10am-3pm & Sun. brunch 10am-3pm. Call 412.8965 for reservations or additional information. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Call 598.1010 or visit CloverGrill.COM. Elizabeth’s Restaurant, 601 Gallier St. It's slogan, real food done real good, says it all. You will find some of the best breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties available in town. Serving lunch Wed.-Fri. 11am-2:30pm, dinner Wed.-Sat. 6-10pm, Sat. & Sun. brunch 8am-2:30pm. Phone 944.9272 for information or visit elizabethsrestaurant.com. Hillery's on Toulouse, 827 1/2 Toulouse, offers Neo-Creole cuisine, awardwinning gumbo and grilled oysters, with a full dinner and and full Southern breakfast menu. Serving breakfast 7-11am, Happy Hour noon-7pm, and dinner 6-10pm. Call 571.2888 for additional information or reservations. Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, serves gourmet coffee, sandwiches, pastries, danish and cakes. Open 7 days 7am-10pm. Call 948.7401 or visit www.marignyperks.com. Meauxbar Bistro, 942 N. Rampart St., serves classic contemporary bistro fare in the Quarter on the edge. Serving dinner and drinks Tues.-Sat, 6-10pm. Call 569.9979 for reservations or information. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am-5pm

Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm10pm 7 days. Call 522.6746 for info. Orleans Grapevine, 720 Orleans, is located in a beautifully renovated 1809 building offering a pleasant atmosphere, extensive wine list with over 350 selections and delicious food including prime steaks, lobster tails and rack of lamb. Serving dinner 511pm daily. Call 523.1930 for additional information. Petunias, A Restaurant, 817 St. Louis, is open daily 8am-6pm serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, crepes, po-boys, salads, gumbo and Cajun/Creole specialties. Dinner is served Thurs. through Sun. 6pm til. Call 522.6440 for more info. Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., was voted Restaurant/ Deli of the Year once again and is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the deli offers free delivery. Call 529.1416 to order. Riche, Fulton Street at Poydras inside Harrah's Hotel, brings Chef Todd English with his one and only French brasseriestyle restaurant to the city. Just steps from the Convention Center and Harrah's Casino, call 533.6117 for reservations and information.

Tomatillo's Restaurant, 437 Esplanade Ave., is open Tues., Wed. 11am10pm; Thurs.-Sun. 11am-11pm. The restaurant refers to itself as "A Mexican Joint" featuring appetizers, soups, salads, make your own combination plates, house specialties, burritos, desserts, and of course, specialty margaritas. Call 945.9997 for reservations or information.

cookin' with auntie dee by Donnie Jay E-mail: auntie-dee@hotmail.com Photo©GrahamStudioOne.COM

Pickling all is quickly approaching, though it doesn’t feel like it here in the deep south it most certainly is just around the corner. The cooler weather is sure to come our way, but that is not my point here. Now is the time that vegetables are at the height of their goodness and availability. This column will be about preserving the bounty of our gardens, through the process of pickling. There is nothing hard about putting up your own pickles, why bother you ask, when everything is available at stores everywhere. Because nothing can compare with home-made pickles. Today we will start off with my favorite pickle, (that is with the possible exception of my current boyfriend or one or two of my bosses.

12 cloves garlic, halved ¼ cup pickling salt 3 cups water 2 ¾ cups white vinegar (5% acidity) 14 fresh sprigs dill 28 peppercorns Wash cucumbers, cut in half lengthwise. Combine garlic and next three ingredients in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove garlic, and place four halves into each hot jar. Pack jars with cucumbers to ½ inch from the top, adding a dill sprigs and four peppercorns to each jar. Pour boiling vinegar mixture over cucumbers, filling to ½ inch from the top. Remove air bubbles; wipe jar rims. Cover at once with metal lids, and screw on bands. Process in boiling water bath 10 minutes. Cool and store. Yield: 7 pints.

KOSHER DILLS

CUCUMBER CHIPS

These pickles will shrivel after processing. They’ll plump later in sealed jars. (Not unlike some men we’ve met.) 4 pounds (4 inch) pickling cucumbers

24 Small (4-5 inch) pickling cucumbers, sliced ¼ inch thick ½ cup pickling salt 3 cups white vinegar (5% acidity) [continued on Main-28]

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3rd Bourbon Street Extravaganza presented by Napoleon’s Itch ~ New Orleans photos: Andy Denmark, Rip Naquin-Delain, Napoleon’s Itch

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Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Drag Show @ The Golden Lantern ~ New Orleans photos: Miss Dee, Andy Denmark

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photos: Miss Dee, Andy Denmark, Larry Graham

Double Play SDGMs Reception, The Land of Oz, Tomatillo’s SD Show, Corner Pocket’s Wet Jockey Shorts Contest, Country Club Playgirl Model Search ~ New Orleans

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clubs & krewes by Douglas Minich, New Orleans E-mail: nolaclubrptr@yahoo.com

hew! What a hot weekend – and not just the temperature and humidity. While I have not heard the “official” count the crowds this year were as big as ever in my book. And just as hot too. I want to thank all the clubs and their members for putting together events that made this weekend a very memorable one. It is always work to put an event together but one that needs to be the size

for Southern Decadence is even harder. Congratulations to the Lords of Leather, New Orleans Bear and Bear Trapper Social Club, Louisiana Gay Rodeo Association, Cavaliers Motorcycle Club and all the others. The NOBBTSC, The Bears, kicked off the weekend Thurs-day afternoon with a Welcome to Decadence Beer Bust at Rawhide. The crowd outside when I pulled up was very encouraging and definitely an

cookin' w/auntie dee ...from M-24

7 small fresh hot peppers 1 quart water 2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity) 1/3 cup pickling salt 2 tablespoons dill seeds Pack okra tightly into hot jars, filling to ½ inch from the top; place a clove of garlic and one hot pepper into each jar. Combine water and remaining three ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Pour boiling vinegar mixture over okra to ½ inches of jar tops. Remove air bubbles, wipe jar rims. Cover at once with metal lids, and screw on bands. Process in boiling water for ten minutes. Yield: seven pints.

1 tablespoon ground turmeric 1 quart water 1 cup water 2 cups sugar 2 (3 inch) sticks cinnamon 1 (1 inch) piece fresh vinegar 1 tablespoon mustard seeds 2 cups firmly packed brown sugar Put cucumbers in a large bowl, and sprinkle with salt. Cover and let stand 3 hours. Combine three cups vinegar, I quart water and turmeric in large Dutch oven; bring to a boil, and pour over cucumbers. Cover and let stand till cooled to room temperature; drain, rinse cucumbers, and drain again. Combine 1 quart of vinegar, 1 cup water and two cups sugar in Dutch oven. Tie spices in a cheese cloth bag, and add to boiling vinegar mixture; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for fifteen minutes. Pour over cucumbers. Let stand at least 12 hours in a cool place. Drain syrup from cucumbers into the Dutch oven. Add brown sugar and bring to a boil. Pack cucumbers into hot jars, filling to within ½ inch of tops. Pour boiling syrup over cucumbers to within ½ inch of tops. Remove air bubbles and wipe down rims of jars. Process in a boiling water bath 10 minutes. Remove from water bath and cool. Yield: 4 pints.

BREAD AND BUTTER PICKLES 6 Pounds picking cucumbers, washed and sliced thin 6 medium onions, sliced thin 2 medium green peppers, chopped 3 cloves garlic 1/3 cup picking salt Crushed ice 5 cups sugar 3 cups cider vinegar (5% acidity) 2 tablespoons mustard seeds 1 ½ teaspoons ground turmeric 1 ½ teaspoons celery seeds Combine first five ingredients in a large Dutch oven, cover with ice mix thoroughly and refrigerate for three hours. Drain. Combine the sugar and the remaining ingredients; pour over cucumber mixture. Heat just until boiling. Pack hot mixture into hot jars, filling to ½ inch from tops. Remove air bubbles and wipe down rims of jars. Cover with metal lids and screw on bands. Process jars in boiling water for ten minutes. Yield nine pints.

PICKLED OKRA 3 ½ pounds small okra pods 7 cloves garlic

PICKLED WATERMELON RIND 1 large watermelon ¼ cup salt 3 quarts water 2 quarts ice cubes 1 tablespoon whole cloves 1 tablespoon whole allspice 9 cups sugar 3 cups white vinegar (5% acidity) 3 cups water 1 lemon, thinly sliced 5 (3 inch) cinnamon sticks Peel watermelon; remove pulp, and reserve for another use. Cut rind into one inch cubes; reserve 12 cups rind cubes in a container. Stir together salt and three quarts water; pour over rind. Add ice and let stand 8 hours. Rinse well and drain. Cook rind with water to cover in a Dutch oven on high for ten minutes, or until tender. Drain. Place cloves and allspice in a cheese cloth bag and tie off. Stir together sugar, vinegar and three cups of water; add spice bag and bring to a boil. Boil five minutes, and pour over rind. Stir in lemon. Cover and let stand eight hours. Bring rind and syrup mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for one hour.. Discard spice bag. Pack rind mixture into hot jars, filling to ½ inch from the top. Place 1 cinnamon stick into each jar. Remove air bubbles and wipe rim. Cover at once with metal lids and screw on bands. Yield 5 (twelve ounce) jars.

CHOW CHOW 2 cups chopped cabbage 2 cups peeled chopped cucumber 2 cups chopped onions 2 cups peeled, chopped green tomatoes 1 1 1 2

cup chopped green pepper cup chopped sweet red pepper ½ cups salt quarts water

indicator of the great crowds to come. Friday started with the crowds going all over the Quarter. The Bears hosted their annual Sire Ursus Contest at New Orleans Leather. They obviously spent a lot of time in preparation and carpentry as the stage was built and the place looked great. Four contestants entered the contest to win the title competing in Bear Wear, Fantasy/Fetish Wear and an interview. I was honored to be the host and got to put the contestants through their paces. The wonderful Solitaire provided entertainment between categories. Contestants order of appearance was determined as each contestant had to pull something out of Bear President Steven’s Big Basket. And they couldn’t see what they were getting into either. Juan Tarzia was named Sire Ursus 2 cups scrapped thinly sliced carrots 2 cups fresh green beans, cut into ½ inch pieces 2 cups frozen baby lima beans, thawed 1 ½ cups water 3 tablespoons mustard seeds 1 ½ tablespoons celery seeds 1 tablespoon ground turmeric Combine first six ingredients in a non-metal container. Dissolve salt in two quarts water, pour over cabbage mixture. Cover and allow to stand eight hours. Drain and rinse well. Place mixture in a Dutch oven; set aside. Cook carrots, green beans, and lima beans separately in small amounts of water until crisp-tender; drain. Add cooked vegetables to cabbage mixture in Dutch oven. Add sugar and remaining ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to mediumlow, and cook for ten minutes. Pack vegetables and hot liquid into hot jars, filling each to within ½ an inch from top. Remove air bubbles, and wipe the jar rims. Cover at once with metal lids and screw on bands. Process in boiling water bath for fifteen minutes. Yield 7 (12 ounce) jars.

PICKLED GREEN TOMATO RELISH 5 pounds green tomatoes, chopped 1 large onion, chopped 2 tablespoons pickling salt 1 ½ cups firmly packed brown sugar 2 cups cider vinegar (5% acidity) 2 teaspoons mustard seeds 2 teaspoons celery seeds 2 teaspoons whole allspice 1 ½ teaspoons whole cloves 3 cups water Sprinkle tomatoes and onion with pickling salt in a nonmetallic bowl; allow to stand for four hours. Drain and pat dry with paper towels, set aside. Combine brown sugar and vinegar in a Dutch oven; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves. Place mustard seeds and next 3 ingredients into a cheesecloth bag and secure. Add spice bag tomato mixture and three cups of water to vinegar mixture. Bring to a boil stirring constantly; reduce heat and simmer for twenty-five minutes or until tomato and onion are tender. Stirring occasionally. Remove and discard spice bag. Pour hot mixture into hot jars, filling to within ½ inch of the top. Remove air bubbles and clean jar rims. Cover at once with metal lids and screw on bands. Process in boiling water bath ten minutes. Yield 7 pints. Happy pickling. You may contact me at auntie_dee@hotmail.com.

2007, receiving a trophy and beautiful sash. Juan will represent the NOBBTSC for the next year at other events around the country and world. I am sure he will do a great job. Congratulations Juan! You know, I have been to many Bear events and contests over the years, even competed in a few, but this was the first one I had the opportunity to emcee. I want to thank Ed and Steven and the rest of the NOBBTSC for the honor. The fun didn’t stop when the contest did however. The Leather Block Party over at the Phoenix bar was just getting started. The Lords of Leather and the Phoenix annually host block parties on Decadence and Mardi Gras. Well, it can be a bit cold over Mardi Gras but it sure wasn’t over Decadence! Phoenix General Manager Clint had it all ready with vendors, clubs, the Jaeger Bus and Boot Black Cort all set up. The Lords were set up with a $5 beer bust to keep the thirsty crowd in plenty of ice cold Abita Beer. This year the other clubs joined in as well. The Bears, Cavaliers MC and LSGRA all had booths set up selling cans of beer and bottled water. It was good to see all the clubs come together working and celebrating our great city. Saturday, Sweet Olive Bed and Breakfast proprietors Dave and Dale held another fantastic Bears and Bubbles get together. What goes better with great food and great company than sparkling champagne? Dave and Dale hold Bears and Bubbles during Mardi Gras and Decadence as a chance for Bears and others from around the world to meet and socialize in the relaxed setting of their beautiful home. The Lords of Leather geared up Saturday night and held the Mr. Louisiana Leather 2008 Contest at the Howlin’ Wolf in the Warehouse District. Contestants started their day out early however. All contestants were introduced to the crowd at Fridays Block Party and sat for interviews with the judges Saturday morning. Saturday night’s event showed the contestants in Street Wear, Bar Wear and Public Speaking. Congratulations to 2 nd runner-up Phillip Youngblood of Alabama, 1st Runner-up Shane Tarr of Florida, and Mr. Louisiana 2008 Michael Albracht of New Orleans! All contestants did a great job and I am sure the judges had a tough time deciding. Michael was seen in the crowds on Bourbon Street after the completion proudly showing off his title. He will represent Louisiana at the annual International Mr. Leather competition in Chicago over Memorial Day Weekend. Congratulations and best of luck to you Michael! The Bears also held a Bear Breakfast at the Phoenix bar on Sunday morning in preparation for the Decadence Parade. Lots of food and drink specials for those early risers. Not to mention the “Best Bear….” contests. Awards were handed out in the categories of Best Bear Beard, Chest, Belly and Butt. I wasn’t able to make this event but heard the competition was tough. We here in New Orleans are finally able to relax a bit as another very successful Southern Decadence is past. I didn’t notice if there were any protestors this year, though I suspect there were a few. I hope they didn’t cause any problems and [continued on Main-29]

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clubs & krewes ...from Main-20 haven’t heard of any. I hope all the visitors had a good time; it did look as if they were enjoying themselves. I do have a request of those that came to visit. When you get home tell your family, friends, coworkers and anyone else that New Orleans is back ready to show all a good time. We still have an economy that relies on tourism and need all the first hand reports from folks like you to give us a hand. All is not over though. The Crescent City Outlaws are preparing to host their annual run Jail Break 7 September 28 – 30. Outlaws' President Kevin tells me they are "expecting folks from as far north as Minnesota, west as Texas and clubs from Atlanta, Nashville, Iowa, Chicago and North Carolina." The Outlaws have events scheduled all weekend including a tour of the Aquarium and dinner/banquet at Five Happiness. Cocktail parties will be sponsored by visiting clubs all weekend as well. Not only will this be the 7th Jailbreak, but the Outlaws will also be hosting the fall meeting of the Mid America Conference of Clubs, an organization representing clubs

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10th Official SD Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by Guest Cruise Directors, The Susan Lucci’s Rip & Marsha: Corner Pocket, Double Play, Le Roundup, Society Page, Ninth Circle, Starlight ~ New Orleans

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e-mail/letters To: info@southerndecadence.com

Subject: I just got back from S.D. 2007 I was there from 8/30/2007 thru and including 9/03/07 and I just wanted to say,

this was the best Southern Decadence yet I’ve attended. I’ve gone to 5 of them so far and plan on attending 2008 (can’t wait). Everyone from the hotels, shops, restaurants, and yes the bars were very nice and polite! Plus, I met some really cool people from all over. Thank you so much for this website and promoting the event. Sincerely, --Rod Venne, San Fran-

cisco, CA To: info@southerndecadence.com

Subject: Just to say Thanks! 2007 was the first year I have ever been able to attend Decadence, since usually I’m booked and working. This year, I was excited to see I was free and immediately made plans to head to New Orleans. Southern Decadence was everything I had heard and more! All the unbelievable work that goes into this does not go without notice as for me. Working for a country music entertainer, I well know what it takes to see events planned, organized, and to see run as smooth as possible. I am impressed by it all, but not surprised, since Southern Decadence has such a great long success already! I spend every New Years in this city, so my love for The Big Easy goes way back. The history, the atmosphere, and the romanticism of New Orleans has always been held deep within me since I first visited at 6 years old. This great city with it’s open arms attitude for gays is so amazing, and the people of Southern Decadence makes the whole celebration even more so. I look forward to next year! Thank you all for a great first experience and warm memories... Sincerely, --Tim Cobb To: info@southerndecadence.net

Subject: Hate Crime at Southern Decadence Dear Southern Decadence organizers, We thought it important that you know that my partner and I were assaulted on Bourbon Street on our way back to our hotel last Sunday morning at 5:30am after leaving Oz. Three white males verbally abused us then one of them physically assaulted my partner, who sustained a broken nose, broken jaw and three lacerations (requiring ten stitches) to his face and nose. He has since developed a black eye complete with a subconjunctival hemorrhage and is still very swollen, bruised and in great discomfort - not to mention quite shaken. The surgery to re-break and set his nose is this coming Monday. The police and ambulance were called immediately after the incident, and we searched in vain for another police [continued on Main-33]

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the big diva by Phyllis Denmark Largo, Florida

Special Edition

e just got home and I have that warm feeling that you have after really good sex. Unfortunately, I didn’t have really good sex, but I have just gotten back from Southern Decadence 2007. I think this was the best Decadence in years. In case you have not heard I have been living in Largo, Florida for the past year. New Orleans will always be my home, but post-Katrina we decided we needed a break and decided on Clearwater-St. Pete. We arrived on Friday morning with our friend Rick. We decided the French Quarter would be the best place to stay so we checked into the Holiday Inn on Royal Street. We planned a weekend of eating, drag and partying. OK, let me re-phrase. I planned a weekend of drag and partying and Uncle Andy planned a weekend of good food. Florida has a lot to offer but food isn’t one of them. We went to the west bank for some Chinese food at China Doll. I love me some China Doll. After picking up a few drag necessities we decided to hit the streets. Our friend Rick had been to Southern Decadence before but not with me! I took him from Le Roundup, Double Play and The Corner Pocket on St. Louis Street to

e-mail/letters ...from Main-31 car or other official while we waited . After 45 minutes of waiting for authorities, we finally gave up when a taxi driver took pity on us and offered us a ride to the hospital. Later that day, after several hours and frustrations in the hospital, we filed a police report and asked the police why nobody came to assist us that morning. The response was that there is a shift change at about the time of the attack. The police also noted that they can only register the incident as an “assault,” not a “hate crime.” We’re not blaming you for what transpired, but we tell you this for a couple of reasons. Police presence (or any other authority’s presence, for that matter) at 5am, when many people are leaving your clubs, was effectively nonexistent. Perhaps you could liaise with the police department more closely in the future, especially during gay event weekends, to ensure there is someone nearby at all times. We also feel you should somehow inform your patrons of the inherent danger of walking up the Canal Street end of Bourbon Street in the early hours of the morning. It is not a safe place for anyonedue to the high numbers of overly-intoxicated revelers. Although we have both experienced verbal abuse in the past, we have never experienced this level of physical violence. As a result, we become so complacent and comfortable being ourselves that we forget there are some people with so many insecurities and so much hatred that they’ll stop at nothing to create trouble and cause pain. It’s a shame, but we must be kept aware of this potential. During event weekends, this mantle should be

Orlando’s Society Page on North Rampart to Rawhide, Good Friends and Cafe Lafitte’s. We looked at a lot of hot men. It was still daylight and The Corner Pocket had boys from around the world dancing on the bar. I knew I had to put a face on for the Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Drag Show at the Golden Lantern that night so I had to get back to the hotel for a “disco nap!” We arrived at The Golden Lantern about 8pm and the bar was already packed. Rip and Marsha “The Susan Lucci's of Southern Decadence” had been asked to host the show. They called me and asked me to help them with their number. They decided they wanted to do Amy Winehouse’s Rehab, with me singing lead. You will have to check out the pictures of us in this issue of Ambush. We were a hoot with Rip and Marsha in red slips, black hair and walkers. I don’t know what was funnier, seeing Rip in drag or all three of us singing about Rehab! Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Electra City followed us with her rendition of Don’t Rain On My Parade. I don’t know what she did but it worked. It rained Saturday evening but not on her parade Sunday. She was followed by Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Guadalupe. Larry Bagneris taken up by those who organize the events. Attendees should feel safe, which may mean organizers’ advising people to avoid particular areas or providing a permanent police or medical staff presence at a known location. We hope this incident provides discussion for you and future organizers of Southern Decadence, and we implore you to do everything in your power to help ensure this doesn’t happen again. Regards To: info@southerndecadence.com

Subject: Next Year Hello, Has anyone considered having more events and performers for SD? Like more performances not only on Saturday (day) but Saturday (night), Friday (night), Sunday (day and night), and Monday (day), going away party. All volunteer if the money is the issue. Like for the Burning Man Festival in Colorado, it is all volunteer. Drag queens, comedians, singers, magic acts (with hot male assistants), fire/sword performer, juggler, stud competitions, etc., from all over the world. When there is nothing going on, all we have is dancing, cruising, and staring at the porn stars. Is this ChiChi LaRue’s city or ours? Also, for the parade, have you considered having the Grand Marshall sitting in a convertible or make a makeshift float in the back of a cool truck. This would make him more identifiable. Even a Grand Marshall competition. Handing “the crown” to next year’s Grand Marshall It is easy to forget what goes on for the SD parade. Maybe more to promote the act of dressing in drag and following the parade bar to bar. I remember from the

was on hand to give them both honorary proclamations from the City. I told them both if it was the key to the city that we should go shopping! Donnie Jay and I did a duet of The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From The Tree, in matching fringe dresses. Rumor has it we only sang every other word! Past Grand Marshal Regina Adams and a host of other celebrities and such were on hand to perform. After the show we bar hopped and worked our way back to the hotel. It is hard for a fat girl like me to handle that heat. I think Friday night was the hottest of the weekend. Saturday night we were invited to go back stage for the big concert presented by Napoleon’s Itch. They had Deborah Cox along with Jeanie Tracy, Fredrick Ford and Mat Jordan booked to entertain. And the clouds opened up. I know Chuck Robinson of Napoleon’s Itch was stressed out. Folks had lined the streets for the concert and it stormed. As with any great show it did go on. The weather cleared and the headliners made it onstage late but not discouraged. I had seen Jeanie Tracy in Pensacola for Memorial Day. She and Deborah Cox were fabulous. It was good to see Oz owner Johnnie Chisholm and partner Cy. Later that night we went to see Naked Boys Singing! They could have stood there and moved their lips; they were still naked! Besides the obvious the show was exceptional. All the boys were really good and it was nice to see that they come in different sizes and shapes! To Do Productions and The Marigny Theatre produced the show. To Do Production is the brainchild of

mid to late 80’s how big the parade got and all the walking around we did. Not only to the gay bars. I remember one time walking through Jackson Brewery. Performers in the parade as well. Any kind of groups (Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Transgender) cheerleaders, drill teams, dance teams, drag queens, musicians, bands, singers, gay bagpipers, etc., again from all over the world. Also, bring DecaDance or D-Dance back. --Alphonse Bladergroen, New Orleans

on the boards ...from Main-12 Gorrondona, Rebecca Frank, Angie Joachim & Alan Payne return with the anything-goes topical revue of gossip, raves, rants and rumors about our political affairs. Featuring The Levee Live News with Farrar Hudkins, and a rotating schedule of bands, chanteuses, dancers, freaks and others. Tickets $15. 11pm Saturday. September 15 and 29. A SCANDALOUS AFFAIR. Westwego Performing Arts Theatre, 177 Sala Ave., Westwego, 371.3330 — Jefferson Performing Arts Society presents an original production by Hallie Neill about the secret love affair between Hollywood stars Jeannette McDonald (Neill) and Nelson Eddy (Theodore Lambrinos). With music by Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hart, Victor Herbert, Sigmund Romberg, Noel Coward and popular operatic favorites. Tickets $26, $23 seniors, $19 students, $12 children. 7:30pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. Through Sept. 23. SHOEBOX LOUNGE. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812 — Jennifer Pagan’s one act play in which she plays a young woman whose life struggles closely align with her shoe collection. Tickets $10. 9:30pm Friday-Saturday. September 21 & 22. THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING WITH US. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812 — In Lucy Faust’s one act play a self-service grocery store check-out scanner suddenly finds a voice and strikes up a conversation with a customer.

Ambush’s own Donnie Jay. This has got to one of the best shows I have seen at the Marigny Theatre. It's set to run through September so call 504.218.8559 or 504.948.9608 to get tickets. We went to bed early Saturday night so I could get my beauty sleep. I had wanted to lose 50 lbs by Southern Decadence. We all know that didn’t happen so I had to rely on lots of makeup, big hair and special effects. I had decided in keeping with the theme to be a Virgin Sacrifice, by the pound. When I told old has-been Grand Marshal Lisa Beaumann that I was wearing white she made a face and said it would make me look big. I told her “I AM BIG!” We hit the streets and were immediately hit with folks wanting to take our picture. We met up with the Ambush Girls and headed for The Golden Lantern. The parade started promptly at 2pm. That is my story and I am sticking to it. The three Grand Marshals were in wonderful feathered headdresses with matching costumes. Marcus and Guadalupe seem to be trying to out do each other. Marcus wins for hot bod and Guadalupe wins for feathers. They both know I love them!! Electra looked hot, no really she looked like she was “hot!” One of the highlights of the parade was Tami Tarmac in the back of a pickup truck in gold sequins and big hair. I mean really big hair. Some of my favorite costumes were the “Made in China Girls” and the “Wendys.” There was the usual Southern Decadence beauties and, of course, Ursuline Burgundy, in gold heels and a diaper! We met up for the Official SD Bead Toss at Ambush Headquarters. The Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha opened their home and balcony for the event. The Grand Marshals had a great time taunting boys and throwing them beads. I enjoyed the air conditioning and food! Easter Parade Grand Marshal Rona was on hand with hubby Bob. Uncle Andy took lots of pictures so our friends in St. Pete would believe our decadent stories. I just want to thank everyone in New Orleans for a wonderful Southern Decadence. Thanks to Rip and Marsha for their hospitality. A note to all the folks outside of New Orleans, if you want to help the city please plan a trip. The folks in New Orleans don’t need sympathy they need visitors. The restaurants and bars are alive and kicking and need your business. I will get off my soapbox now. See y’all next year. --PHYLLIS With Ashley Ricord & Michael Aaron Santos. Tickets $10. 9:30pm Friday-Saturday. September 14 & 15. THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE. Rivertown Repertory Theatre, 325 Minor St., Kenner, 468.7221 — Tony Award-winning high-spirited faux 1920s musical romp written by George Abbott and Richard Morris with new music by Jeanine Tesori. Gary Rucker directs Kelly Fouchi, Rich Arnold, Carrie Black, Megan Sauzer Harms, Tracey Collins and others. Tickets $25, $22 seniors (55 and up)/students, $12 children (6-12). Messina’s optional pre-performance buffet is available for $20. 8pm Thursday-Saturday, 2:30pm Sunday. Through Sept. 30. TWELFTH NIGHT: THE DRINKING GAME. One Eyed Jacks, 615 Toulouse St., 569.9100 — The Legitimate Theater Company presents an interactive, inebriated take on Shakespeare’s classic tale of mistaken identity. Richard Lovejoy directs Chris Bohnstengel, Kerry Cahill, Denise Centola, Kevin Fricke, Britt Hullender, Michael Oscar Indest, Jr., Christina McCrory, Scott Netterville, Evan Prizant, Carlos Rodriguez, Jon Steele & Ian Schoen. Tickets $7. 7pm FridaySaturday. Through Sept. 28.

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one last song by Donnie "Jager" Jay, SDGM XXXII E-mail: donniejay@hotmail.com

My First Decadence by Man Eating Lamb [I am not responsible for the contents of One Last Song. This was written by the Man Eating Lamb. –Donnie Jay] o my dear friends, this is not a recipe column, nor is my real name Man Eating Lamb. It is not necessary that you know my real name, though I was once a very famous television character, I remain active with my partner and I do not wish to disclose it for fear of public outrage. After all I am no longer the docile little hand puppet my adoring fans once knew. But I am sure that as I explain the actual facts that led up to my , what some have called lewd behavior, this past Decadence Sunday before, during, and after the parade, in front of, and in The Golden Lantern, that most of you will understand my behavior. First of all, and I am sure many of you will relate to this; ever since I was a youngling I have always adored the men of your species, they are so specially put together. I adore all their parts and pieces. Ever since I could remember I have just wanted to be man-handled. I mean come on now, after working with that woman for so many years with her hand shoved in me from behind, you can just imagine how I have longed for a stronger touch. You might even say I have always wanted a man with a strong hand. I mean is it any wonder that I turned out the way I have, a gay little lamb? But I’m really getting ahead of myself here, it doesn’t in the end (if you’ll excuse the pun) matter if I was gay or not. I probably would have ended up a man eating lamb one way or the other anyway. Now I am sure that many of you are quite surprise that I am actually a ram and not a little ewe, as I am sure many of you had deduce. I know that over the years my voice sounded rather feminine, but just recall who was manipulating me all that time. Yes, I am a male lamb despite my voice and soft fluffy appearance, and no I am not an ewe impersonator. Our species does not have to pretend to be whom we are not, and if I were I would be accepted just as the real ewes are. We sheep do not know the meaning of discrimination, we amble through life as a herd, not really giving a darn what one another do in the privacy of our pens. As a herd we watch over each other and try to protect one and the other. Why some us of actually hire sheep dogs to act as a warning system offering us their protection as well. Now I must say that I am very fond of sheep dogs and I am sure that they would make good pets if it wasn’t for their god-awful odor. I have heard a rumor that some humans do keep them in their nesting areas, but then they do not have a keenly developed sense of smell at all. Having been raised and hand held by humans for my entire life I came to trust them completely as I did my own natural parents, whom had both disappeared when I was just a little kid. Where they had gone I had no idea and though I had called out for them constantly they never returned.

I never really got to get real close to them, I was so traumatized by their leaving me alone that I adopted my new handler as my mother and thought of each man who came along as my dad. I made a promise to myself then and there that like Peter Pan I would never grow up and would remain a “kid” always. And so I have, I have been a “kid” now for over thirty years and up until just recently I loved just being that. Then came that fateful day. I shudder even now knowing what I learned that terrible evening. It all started out innocently enough, my handler had been invited over to a friend’s home for dinner, and I heard her ask if it was all right to bring me along. “Of course, do.” I heard her friend reply. “The children just love Lamb _____!” I smiled to myself in the comfort of my drawstring bag. Of course they loved me, all children loved me. What would I wear? I always liked to dress for an evening out, I remember I chose the pink collar with the single silver bell and a matching pink bow for my head. I must say I looked smashing. I couldn’t even sleep in my cozy bag as we left for the dinner I was so excited about performing for the children there. I had done this many times before and they just loved me , cuddling up to me, stroking my soft lamb fleece, gentling kissing me on the cheeks, giggling and laughing at all the right places as I did my routine. Tonight was going to be just as wonderful as it has always been in my handlers, friends home. The drive there was uneventful and to tell the honest truth I did fall into a napping state once or twice, so I was quite refreshed as we walked up the stone path to the front door. My handler rang the bell and soon we were greeted warmly by her friend. It was then that I notice a very strange smell permeating the living room, what ever it was it was stomach turning, a kind of sweet sickening smell. I certainly hoped it was nothing they were serving for dinner. I quietly and unnoticed by anyone plucked some loose fleece from beneath my under legs and stuffed it up my nose. It just about countered the awful smell. Upon entering their lovely home, my handler made a big fuss about wipping all four of my feet. I couldn’t understand why in the hell this was done as none of my feet hardly ever touched the ground. But later it was explained to me, setting an example for the children coming in from the outdoors. I grin and bear more crap than you could ever imagine. I would just like to know who appointed me to be teacher of all things correct and incorrect. I had never volunteered to play the part of such a role model. The children came down from upstairs and the fun began. Oh I was funnier and at my best. Entertaining them better than I had ever done before, I was at my finest form, making them break out in glees of laughter and almost causing them to fall over on more than one occasion. I was enjoying myself to no end, when the dinner bell rang and we headed toward the dining room. As we sat at the

table, my handler began returning me to my cloth, “Oh please don’t put him away now.” It was the little girl who wanted me to stay, how nice. “Lambs do not belong at the dinner table,” replied my handler. “But of course they do,” the child smiled. “In fact that’s what mama is serving for dinner. You don’t believe me? Just ask her she cooked a lovely leg of lamb for tonight. "She cooked a leg of lamb?" I gasped silently to myself. How horrible, these people ate lamb, who ever heard of such a thing. She cooked a leg of lamb, does that mean there is some pour three-legged little lamb hobbling around somewhere is this world? I simply would not believe any civilized person, human or not would ever consider eating the flesh of a lamb, I shuddered just to imagine it. We played with the children for a few more minutes until the food was being carried in for the evening meal. That horrible smell returned this time even stronger as a covered platter was placed on the table. My handler placed me back into my bag, it was dark in here but at least it muted that horrid smell. I could hear the rest of the family take their places at the table. Then I heard the distinct clang of the metal cover being placed on the serving cart and I heard the woman of the house address her mate. “John, would you carve the leg of lamb dear.” I almost screamed out, but realized that without my handler I had no voice what so ever. Darn, what a terrible time to be mute. “My it smells divine, my dear.” “Well it’s the last leg of the lamb you gave us.” I almost fainted, she gave them a lamb and they were serving it for dinner. The last leg? Heavens there is a legless lamb scrambling around outside somewhere. “How is it?” “Heavenly my dear, just heavenly.” Heavenly, I began to wonder, well of course the poor little lamb must be dead. “Well you have out done yourself this time, where did you get it.” “It’s the one you got for us.” The handler got them a lamb, why heaven forbid it may just be my father or even worse possibly mom. My head was swimming now and that is when I began to formulate a plan. If man was eating lamb, then lamb should be eating man. That was when I decided, no pledged, that I would no longer be a plaything for children, but rather an avenger. That is the very moment that I decided to become a man eating lamb.

ut I would have to bide my time, I just couldn’t jump right into it, I had to formulate a plan. First of all I would have to change my handlers, find someone who hung out in sleazier places than my current one. She was a grandmotherly type for God’s sake, a church going woman, more than likely still a virgin. If I could travel on my own to Austin, perhaps I could hook up with one of those bent Austin Babtist Woman. But I was stuck here in New Orleans. So I cleverly hid in the old handlers sock drawer and one morning, after one sherry to many, she placed me on her right foot in place of a regular sock and it took me no time at all to grab my front legs together as she approached the top stair and send her tumbling to her death at the bottom of the circular staircase. It was by sheer luck that at a yard sale to clear out her estate an outrageous drag queen named Donnie Jay purchased me

for the pitiful sum of just twelve dollars. I think at the time she thought I might make a good addition to her act, but she just didn’t have the brains to think of anything clever to do with me. I’m telling you, I’ve seen her act and she really needs help. So I just resided on top of her dresser along with other hand puppets and stuffed beanie babies for over a year, all the time thinking of just how to start man eating. Then last Sunday, my life changed totally. Unknown to me Drag Queens, Man Eaters, Fruits, Women whom love Woman, Gender Benders of all descriptions, and generally anyone who is ever so slightly insane, and other assorted warped individuals, have their very own holiday celebration in the city that care forgot, New Orleans. It is rumored that it started as a simple going away party, but as gay people every where know a party is just a party unless it has the ability to grow into a major event. And so it was with Southern Decadence. I personally think after experiencing my first one as a gay ram man-eater it should be declared a National holiday. Donnie Jay, my new handler brought me down to the bar where he works, The Golden Lantern, the Official Home of Southern Decadence. I know this for a fact because I read a plaque from some sissy in Baton Rouge hanging on the wall. I knew that the minute he shoved his hand up in me that this was the day I had dreamed about for so long. This is the day that I would become a man-eater at last. As Donnie walked through the crowds both in the bar and on the street, he held me just below his waist. What a temptation that was, and every so often I gave into that temptation and grabbed some unsuspecting man passing by. It made me baa with glee to see the look on their faces, I was sure more than one of them would certainly punch my new handler. He must have thought the same because he kept announcing, “Be careful man-eating lamb coming through. I can not control this lamb what so ever, he has a mind of his own. Gentlemen please cover your crotches, I can not be responsible for anything this lamb does.” But it didn’t work at all, no one believed him. I just look like a little toy, a hand puppet if you will. Who would ever believe that I was a man-eater.” I’ll tell you in retrospect that I had a wonderful time as it were, I think I had about ninety or a hundred men within my mouth that afternoon, it was quite a three hour treat as we awaited the arrival of the parade. The parade was great too, I grabbed a few more men for later. Congratulations are in order to the Grand Marshals Electra City, Guadalupe, and Marcus Martinez. I hope you all had a great day… by the way Donnie enjoyed the afternoon too, You may contact me at donniejay@hotmail.com.

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~35 of 56

MAIN~36 of 56 • AmbushMag.COM • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

OCH makes everyone smile Rodeo Grand Marshals The Austin Babtist Women at OCH

Entertaining the crowd at RCC

What’s on his mind at OCH

austin

My favorite OCH cocktail bunny

The lady in red at RCC A hunky bear at Rain

Handsome service at OCH

Super service at OCH What a view at Rain There’s always room for... at RCC

So cute at OCH

Just beautiful at OCH

OCH’s own Christine

NYC’s Lady Bunny wows the OCH crowd

And speaking of great views!

Pretty in pink at RCC

Austin Softball gives service with a smile at RCC

She works hard for the money at RCC

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Hot Shots ~ Austin, Texas

Can anything still surprise OCH’s Steve?

photos: Bob Hemby, Garry Holley

paparazzi

capitol comments by Bob Hemby, Austin, TX E-mail: capitolcomments@yahoo.com

EEEE-HAAAAW! The time has finally arrived when Austin will be overrun with tight fitting Wranglers, ten gallon hats and enough testosterone to ride a wild bull. Literally. The 2007 Capital City Rodeo rides into town with a flurry of events, parties, and wild west action. Ambush is happy to provide a handy dandy guide to all things Rodeo. But before heading out for all of the fun, why not stop by Gomi over on 2nd street to pick out an exciting new outfit for rubbing… err… elbows… yeah, that’s it… elbows with all the handsome men and women in town to party Texas style. Rodeo 2007 kicks off Monday, September 17th at 6pm when Oilcan Harry’s hosts a super slammer happy hour sponsored by Tito’s Vodka and Budweiser. On Tuesday, September 18th at 6pm, the Rainbow Cattle Co. hosts the Rainbow Riders happy hour sponsored by the Austin Rainbow Pages. Wednesday, September 19th at 6pm Oilcan Harry’s ends the pre-party festivities with the Bourbon and Branch happy hour sponsored by Jack Daniels. Join the Texas Gay Rodeo Association for cocktails and conversation. Special VIP tickets will be on sale at each of these events. TGRA is offering a limited group of VIP passes for this year’s rodeo. These passes come with a special souvenir lanyard identifying the holder as a VIP. Each VIP pass holder receives special parking and entrance at the Travis County Rodeo Arena as well as access to a private VIP area with open bar. The VIP area will be the only area offering cocktails. Beer will be available to the public at the rodeo arena. A “Ben Franklin” (that’s $100) buys you the spe-

cial VIP treatment and VIP passes are only available at rodeo events up until Friday evening’s Howdy Party. Be sure to pick up your VIP pass and do the rodeo in style. Thursday, September 20th the Rainbow Cattle Co. will host the competition for the 2008 TGRA Royalty Team. The contest begins at 8pm and TGRA will be hosting a cocktail hour at 7pm prior to the competition. This is your first chance to get a look at who might be the next reigning Royalty and a chance to say an early good-bye and thank you to 2007 Miss TGRA Kiara Jacobs and Mr. TGRA Randy Edlin as they get ready to ride off into the sunset. Happy trails you two and thanks for a great year. The Wyndham Hotel, host hotel for the 2007 rodeo, will be the site of the Wet and Wild Pool Party Friday, September 20th from 1pm – 4pm. Say hello to all the rodeo contestants and guests arriving into town while the DJ keeps the latest C&W tunes pumping. Contestant Registration begins in the host hotel conference rooms at 6pm. At 7pm the doors open in the hotel’s main ballroom for the Howdy Party featuring the live singing talents of Austin’s own Alison Goodgame and JG Avila alongside Nebraska songstress Tamara Marks. Dancers will be scooting their boots on the large dance floor as these singers belt out the latest tunes. At 9:30pm the new TGRA Royalty will be crowned as the 2007 Royalty steps down. There will be shuttle busses running from the host hotel to sponsor bars Oilcan Harry’s and the Rainbow Cattle Co. from 10pm to 2:30am. Saturday, September 21st the 2007 Capital City Rodeo opens at the Travis County Expo Center. A spectacular parade of colors will flow

during the noon’ish Grand Entry that will also feature 2007 Rodeo Grand Marshal’s The Austin Babtist Women. Following Grand Entry, our divine divas of comedy will be giving a special performance at the rodeo arena. Back at the host hotel, from 5pm-9pm on Saturday, the Heart of Texas Bears will be hosting the Wild and Woolly Pool Party. You know how a bear loves a good splash. Once again the DJ will keep the tunes flowing as the fur flies. At 6:30pm the State Dance Competition begins at the host hotel featuring dancers from around the state. The busses begin rolling again at 10pm to help put the perfect cap on a perfect day. Rodeo action continues at the Travis County Expo Center on Sunday, September 23rd. Come out and watch some of the best contestants on the IGRA circuit vie for a chance at a possible $40,000 purse for the best time in Goat Dressing. (yes, you read that right… Goat Dressing) Get into the rodeo spirit by participating in Sunday afternoon’s calf scramble, open to rodeo volunteers and the public only, and win a chance at $25,000. It will certainly be a super Sunday. And finally, after all is said and done, the Texas Gay Rodeo Association will be hosting a Happy Trails cocktail party on Sunday at the Rainbow Cattle Co. Rodeo Grand Marshal’s the Austin Babtist Women will be making an appearance along with the new TGRA Royalty at 8pm as Austin gives a big thank you to all those who came into town. Ambush Magazine has been proud to help sponsor this annual charity event that has given back over $2,000,000 to Texas charities since its beginnings. Ambush will be on hand to capture the rip-roaring fun and we will be giving our anxious readers all the sights in our next issue. Be sure to pick up a copy at one of our many locations around Austin. Oilcan Harry’s, sponsor bar of the 2007 rodeo, will always be Austin’s party headquarters. From the fabulous drink specials to the exceptional service, Oilcan Harry’s can’t be beat. Be sure to stop in and show your support for a local legend that is always ready to give back to our community. Speaking of giving back to the community… The Rainbow Cattle Co., sponsor bar of the 2007 rodeo, just hosted the 21st anniversary of the Austin Babtist Women. The Rainbow has

given a home to these gray haired philanthropists for the last several years, allowing them a space to do what they do best – raise money and awareness for worthy causes. Project Transitions was the beneficiary of this year’s anniversary event and the Rainbow Cattle Co. went out of their way to help ensure this event was a rousing success. Hats off to both of these Austin landmarks for not only giving us an entertaining nightspot but also for their generosity and spirit. YEEEEHAAAAW! If you know of anything going on in the Austin area or if you would like something mentioned in Capitol Comments, e-mail Bob at capitolcomments@gmail.com.

South Padre Island, Texas

The Upper Deck Hotel & Bar www.UpperDeckHotel.COM Join Us for Your Next Vacation

Pool, Hot Tub Resort-1/2 block to Gay Beach PO Box 2309, 120 E. Atol St. South Padre Island, TX 78597 956.761.5953 E-mail: gaypadre@upperdeckhotel.com

EXPOSE'-2 of 56 • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

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Lady Rhonda with Apollo King-elect John & cute friend Michael & Ronnie at George’s

Mark & John enjoying Decadence

Joy hugging Hound Dogs stud Louis

Ex-Baton Rouge artist Mark Babin at Animation Gallery Royale

red stick paparazzi David & Danny at Splash

Lea at Hound Dogs Tennessee charmer Jim with Corey DB caught off guard at Cowpokes

Karen in DJ booth at Splash

Sam at Cafe Amelie on Royal Street Enjoying drinks at George’s Red Stickers at Southern Decadence

Tom & Rick ready for a break

Tittie Toulouse & Rich cooling off at Cowpokes

Bryant at Gnome

Timid Paula at Hound Dogs

Hound Dogs bar baron James

EXPOSE'-4 of 56 • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Cocktailin’ in Baton Rouge, Southern Decadence in New Orleans

Ronnie hugs George’s sex stud Luther

photos: Brad Benedict Benedict

Rab-Dab Dave at Quarter’s top clothier

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

Louis

had been hearing about the new bartender at Hound Dogs so I thought I would make my way over to this downtown bar and give you my opinion. When I left, I told him I would write him up, and, of course, he wanted to know what I would say. I just told him to wait for the next issue of Ambush and tell me what he thought of my impression of him. I took a number of notes, and I found out one thing – you have to go with the flow, and this sexy stud doesn’t waste any time when he comes on duty. That to me makes Louis a top-notch bartender. He is constantly busy doing something, and he definitely takes care of customers on a timely basis, a great trait in any public servant be he a bartender or waiter or sales clerk. Louis is a graduate of LSU and is a full-time worker in the film industry. He is a tall, well-built young man. His broad shoulder and muscles make you realize immediately that he works out and takes care of that magnificent body. The faded jeans with the tears were appropriate and made him even more sexy, and the skintight LSU shirt just adhered to his body like it had been sprayed on. He’s actually a neighbor of mine in

Spanish Town, so he manages to keep up with the local scene although he is a really busy young man. His smile is contagious, and his brown eyes just light up when he is talking with you. He’s from a small town up near Monroe, but you can tell he had an upbringing that was both effective and

well executed by his family and the school system in his home parish. Small towns are good at this. This 22-year-old just walked right in Hound Dogs and said he was new to the neighborhood and would like to work there. I think the other hired help and the owners must have jumped at the chance because he was hired right away. Maybe it was this winning personality that made the biggest impression, but it could have been the hint of a beard, like a Don Johnson day-old type. As I indicated, I had to follow him around to get pictures of him. He was constantly doing something – waiting on customers, cleaning ash trays in both bar areas and pool section, cleaning the glasses that had accumulated, and even taking time to check out Ambush to try to figure out what I might be up to concerning him. I got to Hound Dogs before he arrived, and from my vantage point, I saw him walk by the side window, and no one had to tell me he was the new bartender. I knew it immediately. It was something about the way he walked and his sincerity when he apologized by squeezing by me to get to the bar. Now would I plan a tight squeeze like that? Of course I would. This right-handed wonder boy is really a sight to behold, and every man in the bar kept eyeing him, so I knew they were all in lust. Louis was completely at ease in this element, and this too is the sign of a

good bartender. Joy was on duty and ready to get off, and she had great things to say about him. He just fits in. And his tastes are rather on the manly side, nothing light-footed about this stud. He mentioned it was difficult getting his truck down my street, and I can see why. As I was leaving, I glanced over to where he parked, and there was one of those Chansley-style lesbian limos sitting there, but I can assure you, that image melted away into what happens to be one talented and smart country stud with a big ole pickup truck. Even with that LSU cap, he still shines through as a young man who can dress down or up, whatever the scene. All I can say is that I will be sitting on my porch waiting for that monster truck to drive by. Of course, the welcome is out in case he should need a drink or just to sit and chat. This just may be the best decision ever for bar barons James and Kyle. Louis is a winner, pure and simple. I may have to start staying up past my bedtime just to enjoy a late-night beer and be in the presence of a handsome stud, a beautiful piece of humanity.

Luther

uther is another stud that I can always stay up for – for a drink, sweeties. What did you think I meant? Luther and I go back a long way, and I’ve always known him to be one of the handsomest of all the bartenders I’ve ever known, and over the years, I’ve seen many come and go. I think when you have a steady and important job and bartend on [continued on Expose-8]

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Erin giving a free show at Sound Factory Chris hanging out at Back Side

Zach popping into Back Side for a cocktail

Back Side presents, “Guess the Fag!”

Matt, an adorable new face at Sound Factory

Macky trying to get a-head in pool Blake at Sound Factory

Monique chugging an energy drink at Sound Factory

Darius showing off his new tits at Sound Factory

Steven partying at Sound Factory, shocking!

acadiana

Jeremy & Becca looking fabulous at Sound Factory

paparazzi

Dustin enjoying a drink at Back Side

Stephanie out at Back Side

DJ Huggies plays all the hits at Sound Factory

Patrick & Ethan getting drunk for Ethan’s B-Day at Sound Factory

Dan working John’s pole at Sound Factory

John & Chelsea double teaming behind the bar at Sound Factory

Sonny enjoying himself at Sound Factory

Sydni & Shay having fun at Sound Factory

EXPOSE'-6 of 56 • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Cocktailin’ in Lafayette, Louisiana photos: Patrick Clinton

Vondale & Ashley getting frisky at Back Side

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do.

allons acadiana by Patrick Clinton Email: BlondAtULL@aol.com

abor Day is behind us which means the fall semester is in full swing. The summer is finally coming to an end. I can’t wait until the weather starts cooling off. But even though the temperatures outside may drop, the atmosphere in Downtown Lafayette is hotter than ever. The Sound Factory, along with its Back Side, has a lot planned for the month of September, and as always, I think you’ll be impressed. And of course, I’m sure you’ve already noticed their new look. There’s nothing like seeing an old friend get a make-over. And to add to the new decor, The Sound Factory is exhibiting a new series by local artist Todd Rojas. If you’ve never seen any of Rojas’s photographic pieces, you really need to go by and check them out. This particular exhibit is composed in black and white and is probably best described as an exploration of the male form. To say the very least, they are impressive and worth a trip downtown. They add that extra touch that really completes Sound Factory’s new look. Besides the cosmetic changes, The Sound Factory and Back Side continue to offer the same warm friendly atmosphere that people have come to expect. And don’t worry, they still offer a weekly lineup that is second to none. Every night of the week, Sound Factory is offering a different drink special. So no matter what night you decide to drop in, you’ll get great prices along with their one of a kind service. They are open seven days a week and work tirelessly to make sure each night is both fun and unique. Tuesdays are Karaoke Night at Sound Factory so feel free to come on out and serenade the city of Lafayette with your unique musical styles and talent. Whether you enjoy being on stage or simply watching those that do, you’re sure to have an awesome night. And the rest of the week is just as great. Between karaoke on Tuesday nights and Show Night on Sundays, they pack seven days with everything from kickass contests to drag shows and pool tournaments. And scattered throughout are fabulous drink specials and the unforgettable dance music spun by DJ Huggies. And unlike many other dance clubs, Sound Factory has a quieter more relaxed side, a Back Side, where you can take a break from the loud music and socialize with your friends, or make some new ones. And when the conversations wear thin, all you have to do is walk around the corner to dance the night away. What more could anybody ask for? It’s two bars for the price of one, and it’s right in the heart of Downtown Lafayette. It’s no wonder so many people travel from all over to come out in Lafayette. It offers a unique culture and an unbeatable nightlife. So next time you’re trying to figure out something to do, come by Sound Factory and its Back Side. You’re sure to have an unforgettable night. Now that Southern Decadence is over, the countdown is on to the holiday season. Before you know it, Halloween will be here, followed quickly by Thanksgiving,

Christmas, and everybody’s favorite, Mardi Gras. Sound Factory and Back Side are just starting the big Party Season a little bit early. My advice is to take advantage of it. You can never have to much fun. Until next time, have fun and be safe. I’ll see you around town.

hot tails of red stick ...from EX-5 a part-time basis, you come away a better person and definitely with more goals. I can’t even recall the first meeting I had with Luther. I think I’ve been working at Ambush for about fifteen years, give or take one or two, so lots of people have come my way. I met and made many friends back in the Hibiscus Bookstore days too. I do recall the first dinner meeting with him. It was a private party at Trace’s condo, before Trace bought his home. I drooled all over myself as I watched him sitting on the couch with a date that I don’t even recall by name. Isn’t that the way it is? Some people impress. Some people don’t. Luther makes an impression, and it’s a lasting one and a very good one. Luther really does have the looks of a model, and his body is great too. I sometimes wonder why someone like him doesn’t just hang it all up and head out to Hollywood. With all the trash on the West Coast now pretending to be celebrities, Luther could make a splash of sincerity and goodness if he showed up for an audition. Of course the agent might want something in return, and that’s the price some pay for moving up in the world. However, Luther has the talent, and he definitely has the looks. His smile is captivating, and his laughter is really nice. He’s just one of those individuals who can make you comfortable by a mere smile and a simple hello. Over the years, I’ve heard great things about him from numerous people. Gerry has high praise for him and was his boss at one time when they worked for the same company. It’s like that with anyone I talk with that knows Luther. He is well liked by all, and his honesty and integrity put him way ahead of many others his age. He has that assuring personality that he knows his feet are firmly planted, and he is, and has been all along, seeking higher goals. I enjoy his presence. I think he is just one fine human being.

Decadence

am went with me to Southern Decadence, and our plans were simple. I wanted to do a few pictures of Baton Rougeans out having a good time, but I also wanted to see Mark and John. I don’t get to New Orleans that much anymore, but when I do, I have to seek these two out. We were shopping at Gnome, at the corner of Barracks and Decatur, a great little gift shop, when I got the call that they were on their way to meet me. I had looked for them and thought I was going to have to go by their house to see them, but here we were hugging and kissing on the street like all good little boys

Mark is one of the hardest workers I know, and I wish he would slow down. Doing 80 hours a week and flying all over the country just isn’t good for him. I guess I’m going to have to go down and keep John company if he doesn’t adjust that schedule soon. I wouldn’t want John to get lonesome for companionship. Well, surprise of surprises, the two are getting married. I was informed that John got down on his knees and proposed. Of course, I immediately picture this “down on your knees stuff,” but for a change, it was a proposal. I wish them well. They are just fantastic guys, and I love them dearly. In addition to all the Red Stickers I encountered, I met lots of my old buddies from the Lords of Leather, especially being glad to see Danny and George. When I hugged them, I literally stuck to them. They used some kind of sunscreen spray, and with the sweat mixing with the glue, it was a sticky proposition – but worth it just seeing them again. I didn’t get to meet the new Mr. Louisiana Leather, but when you have sponsored three in a row, all winning, it is just never the same. After all, 2003 was one of the best years I’ve ever had, and I owe so much appreciation to Mark for making this such a fine period in my life. I wonder if I should blame him for any body alterations I encountered. Hmmm. We were just finishing up our meal at Café Amelie on Royal Street when the gay parade came by. This is really a nice place to relax with a drink or a complete meal. I love patio dining, and I think you will to. Try it out the next time you are in the Crescent City. I could swear I had seen employee Gerald before, but he said others had claimed to know him too, so he must have a twin running around. He said he wasn’t a native but from San Francisco where he worked with Cirque du Soleil. Of course, I had to make my way to Rab-Dab for some shopping. I think this is perhaps the finest little men’s store in the French Quarter, and their clothing and gift items are exceptional. I always try to shop here when I’m in the city, and I enjoy talking with owner Dave too. The atmosphere at Rab-Dab is very nice, and Dave always makes you feel so welcome when you shop there. Located at 918 Royal, right down from Café Amelie, you can’t go wrong shopping here. I urge you to support this one. This is an important shop and deserves all the support we can give him. All Baton Rougeans need to check this store out when you are in New Orleans. On the same block of Royal Street, you really need to check out Mark Babin’s art work at Animation Gallery Royale. I had no idea he was so talented, and it looks like he has found his calling. It definitely wasn’t shown when he was in Baton Rouge (or at least not the art anyway), and he is definitely a high roller now. That’s quite a difference from his days at George’s. Be sure to check out his work, and he will have a web site up soon. Café Amelie, Rab-Dab, and the Animation Gallery Royale make this block of the French Quarter a must-see and support area, and Gnome is a nice gift shop up near Esplanade and the Market area. We made it over to Cowpokes too. I had to see one of my favorite friends, none other than the fabulous DB. I took a liking to him the minute he sat down on the front row at that Lords of Leather meeting and

aired out the family jewels for me. I could hardly contain myself, and I’m glad I was seated at the officers table. It would have been embarrassing to have to stand up at the time. I’m just glad I could have him as my guest at one of the LOL bal masques, his first after coming to the city. He is just one fine individual. I also ran into Rich while there and went upstairs to see Timm. I hadn’t seen him for a while, and he was rushing to get downstairs for a performance of all those naked boys singing. Maybe I’ll make it back down there for a performance. I ran into Mina outside the Phoenix. I was afraid I would miss her since I hadn’t run into her in the Quarter, but luckily I saw her parking and stopped to chat with her. My only disappointments about this trip to New Orleans was that I missed several people including Kevin Chestnut. I was probably all around him, but I just never saw him. And I failed to run into John and Phil too, and I think they spent the entire weekend there, and neighbor Robert was down there, but I didn’t find him hanging onto any street signs this time around. Oh, well, that’s life. The first Red Stickers we ran into were Tom and Rick, on their way to their apartment to rest a while before coming back out for the festivities. Effie and her group were there as was Lady Rhonda and Apollo’s new king-elect, John. It was nice seeing Ben and Pat, and even Tim, another leather stud from the past. I looked for Joey at Good Friends, but he was not coming on duty until later on, so I’ll have to catch him later. I’m sure he has been seriously overworked during this period and needed a break to rest. I need to inform him that separators are my kind of drink, and he needs to have me some ready the next time I see him. I know its too much trouble on large occasions like this, but I do love those concoctions. Surprisingly, I found this Southern Decadence to be rather orderly, almost to the point of being boring. That doesn’t mean people weren’t having fun, but it just seemed different from those of the past. All I know is that this is one holiday that really helps out the New Orleans economy, and part of my feelings are just a matter of getting older and not being as perky as I once was. The crowds were rather large, and there were a few exciting moments and lots of happy groups noted, but it was more of a stand-around and drinking affair. Since I was driving and not drinking, maybe I just didn’t get into the spirit of things. However, I didn’t want to get wiped out with writing deadlines staring me in the face, so rather than squeeze through the crowds, I managed to go around blocks and view things this way. Sadly, those religious freaks were out parading, calling for everyone to forget hate. Don’t they realize they are the ones who hate? Hate is not a family value, but they don’t seem to realize that. They need to get a life, and the city fathers need to lock them away for disturbing the peace and tranquility of a wonderful holiday as only New Orleans can provide. Something like this always reminds me of the time I walked through these people who were blocking the way to the old Mirror Lounge. SJ was so proud of me for doing that, and I was rather proud of myself too. From the holiday of holidays, it’s back to the real world. I’m just thankful that I had another chance to be with friends and relax in an enjoyable setting.

EXPOSE'-8 of 56 • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

paparazzi

Southern Decadence Showgirls & Celebs ~ New Orleans

photos: Regina Adams, Miss Dee, Andy Denmark, Starlight

ambush

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433.8482

attorneys

Atlanta, GA [404] BLAKE'S ON THE PARK, 227 10th St., NE, 873.5921 BLU, 960 Spring St., 877.1221 THE HERETIC, 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd., 325.3061 WET BAR, 960 Spring St., NW, 745.9494 Alexandria, LA [318] UNIQUE, 3217 Industrial St., 448.0555 Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798 HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Road, 242.9491, splashbr.com Lafayette, LA [337] BACK SIDE, 209 Jefferson St., 269.0430 THE SOUND FACTORY, 209 Jefferson St., 269.6011 V BAR, 533 Jefferson St., 264.8000 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457

New Orleans, LA [504] BEACH LAW FIRM, 525.2999

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, gabrielsdowntown.com THE SOCIETY, 16 S. Conception VISIONS, 20 S. Conception, 432.9056, visions-mobile.com Fort Myers, FL [239] TUBBY'S, 4350 Fowler St., 274.5001, TubbysBar.COM Key West, FL [305] BOURBON STREET PUB, 724 Duval CLUB INTERNATIONAL, 900 Simonton St. DONNIE'S CLUB 422, 422 Appelrouth Lane 801 BOURBON BAR, 801 Duval St., 294.4737 Miami/South Beach, FL [305] PALACE FOOD BAR, 1200 Ocean Dr., 531.7234 TWIST, 1057 Washington Ave., 538.9478, www.twistsobe.com Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491 THE ROUNDUP, 706 E. Gregory St.,

Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659 MASQUERADES LOUNGE, 3505 Division St., 888.4101 SANCTUARY, 2301 N. Causeway Blvd., 837.7979 New Orleans, LA [504] BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CANAL STREET

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beads/t-shirts New Orleans, LA [504] THE BEAD PIRATE, 716 Orleans Ave., 524.7177, TheBeadPirate@aol.com

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bookstores

322.7823 BIRMINGHAM ADULT BOOKS, 7610 First Ave. North, 836.1580 New Orleans, LA [504] AIRLINE ADULT BOOKS, 1404 26th St., Kenner, LA 70062; 468.2931 CHARTRES ST. CONXXXION, 107 Chartres St., 586.8006 FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 PARADISE ADULT VIDEO, 41 W. 24th St., Kenner, LA 70065; 461.0000 PARADISE #2 IN ELMWOOD, 5608 Heebe, Harahan, LA, 733.7780 SLIDELL ADULT SUPERSTORE, Slidell, LA, 985.646.2616 Knoxville, TN [865] TOWN & COUNTRY BOOK DEN, 6927 Clinton Hwy., 947.9153 WEST KNOX NEWS, 5011 Kingston Pike, 588.1972

Austin, TX [512] ADULT VIDEO MEGAPLEXXX, 7111South I-35, 442.5430,www.sexysite.com LOBO, 3204A Guadalupe, 454.5406

cable shows New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 78

casinos New Orleans, LA [504] HARRAHS NEW ORLEANS, Canal at the River, 800.HARRAHS

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is2007]

circuit/events Oct. 25-28, 2007, Halloween 24 benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 29, 2007-Jan. 1, 2008, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 1-5, 2008, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, March 23, 2008, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush & Queen Fashions, GayEasterParade.COM May 23-26, 2008, Memorial Day Weekend including Bounce, Sweat, Abracadabra, Forbidden 1 & 2 plus Spellbound after-hour parties, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM May 25, 2007, First Splash Austin, Hippie Hollow, Lake Travis, Austin, TX June 5-8, 2008, One Mighty Weekend, Gay Day Weekend at Disney sponsored by Ambush, OneMightyWeekend.COM Aug. 27-Sept. 1, 2008, Official Southern Decadence 37-A Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 135,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM

costumes New Orleans, LA [504] COSTUME HEADQUARTERS, PO Box 8129, NOLA 70182, 985.384.1265

counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, M.Ed., Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000

Birmingham, AL [205] ALABAMA BOOKS, 801 Third Ave.,

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employment

groceries/delis

New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS is accepting applications for friendly, energetic staff members. Apply at front desk, 515 Toulouse St. Drug test/ background check required. CLERKS & FLOOR ATTENDANTS, $8 an hour, now hiring at Flex, call Tony 504.666.TONY (8669) for appointment.

New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416 VERTI MART, 1201 Royal St., 525.4767

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 FRAME, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726

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galleries New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700

gardening/landscaping New Orleans, LA [504] AMERICAN AQUATIC GARDENS, 621 Elysian Fields, 944.0410

guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: info@ ambushmag.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, webmaster@gaybars.com United States/Canada GAYELLOW PAGES: Informing the US/ Canada LGBTG Community since 1973. Separate sections for Women and Ethnic/Multicultural focus. PO Box 533, NY, NY 10014-0533; 212.674.0120, http://gayellowpages.com gayellowpages@earthlink.net. Sold at Alternatives/New Orleans, LA

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GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • Sept. 11-24, 2007 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-13 of 56

Kyle

St., 523.2222 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.3621 CREOLE INN, 2471 Dauphine St., 70117; 948.3230, CreoleInn.com DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayNewOrleans.COM ENGINE 24 GUEST HOUSE, 2711 Dauphine, 261.5368 HOTEL LA SALLE, 1113 Canal St., 566.1733, HotelLaSalle.COM LIONS INN BED & BREAKFAST, 2517 Chartres, 945.2339, 800.485.6846, lionsinn.com MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., 943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599 MarignyManorHouse.COM NEW ORLEANS GUEST HOUSE, 1118 Ursuline St., 70116; 566.1177, 1.800.562.1177 PIERRE COULON GUEST HOUSE - Comfortable and spacious private apt. in 1830 Creole Cottage just blocks from the French Quarter and Faubourg Marigny gay bars, coffee shops and restaurants. Amenities include tv/vcr/cable, telephone, patio view, kitchenette, complimentary continental breakfast and plenty of free parking. 504.943.6692, 1.866.328.1497 coulonguesthouse@yahoo.com, www.pierrecoulonguesthouse.com ST. PETER GUEST HOUSE, 1005 St. Peter, 70116; 1.800.535.7815 URSULINE GUEST HOUSE, 708 Ursuline, 70116; 525.8509 Shreveport, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, AmbushMag.COM Biloxi, MS DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Hattiesburg, MS DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Jackson, MS DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Natchez, MS [601] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Austin, TX [512] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAustin.NET Beaumont, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Dallas, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayDallas.COM Galveston Island, TX [409] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayTexas.NET Houston, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayHouston.COM San Antonio, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayTexas.NET South Padre Island, TX [956] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayTexas.NET UPPER DECK HOTEL & BAR, PO Box 2309, 120 E. Atol St., 78597; 761.5953, E-mail: gaypadre@upperdeckhotel.com, upperdeckhotel.com

504.292.1577 massage New Orleans, LA [504] FRENCH QUARTER MASSAGE BY MIKE - Treat Yourself!” - Professional, Private & Personal. Deep Tissue & Swedish Massages available. Phone 598.3237. www.FrenchQuarterMassage.COM. E-mail: jma57@cox.net. License #LA2687 [is2007] NATIONALLY CERTIFIED MASSAGE THERAPIST specializing in deep tissue. Contact Rick 258.4335. License #LA2206. [is2007]

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: info@ ambushmag.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8047, ambushonline.com, email: info@ambushonline.com

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATEARCHIVES, 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 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINEWELLSMARDIGRASMUSEUM, 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 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEECONTIHISTORICALWAXMUSEUM, 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, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERNART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm MOBILE ALABAMA PRIDE BOWLING LEAGUE 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] 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 LEWIS HUMPHREY’S FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 387.9798 METROPOLITANCOMMUNITYCHURCHOF BATON ROUGE, Worship Sunday @ 11am; Bible Study Wednesday @ 7pm, 7747 Tom Dr., LA 70806; 248.0404, www.MCCBR.org MYSTIC KREWE OF ROYALTY, PO Box 66571, 70896; 926.1698 PFLAG Baton Rouge, Harold L. Truax, 33370 Percy Young Rd., Walker, LA 70785; 225.218.8320, 225.288.2522 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACADIANA RAINBOW SOCIETY OF THE DEAF, PO Box 57166, 70157; 889.0138 (TDD)

AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 779.1178 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CAVALIERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB: Gay motocycle group sponsors monthly day rides and other riding events in New Orleans area. Visit www.cavaliersmc.comc or call 782.5625 or e-mail info@cavaliersmc.com. CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 10:30am Service, 2013 Royal St., christliberator@yahoo.com COMING OUT SUPPORT GROUP, meets 1st Wed. of each month, 7:30-9pm, Info: Liz 482.4012; Lesbian & Gay Community Center, 2114 Decatur St., 70116; 945.1103 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 DRAMA! [A Gay & Lesbian Arts Organization], PO Box 52565, 70152; 948.9924, DramaNO.org, DRAMA@DramaNO.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality@aol.com FOUNDATION FOR MACRO BIOTIC WAY, enjoy-life.com 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, E-mail: 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 70156-6836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Ser-

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vice of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. IN THIS TOGETHER, HIV/AIDS Case Management, 1661 Canal Street, Suite 3107, 70112; 962.3245, is www.inthistogetherinc.org, itt@accesscom.net KOCKTAIL BUNCH BOWLING LEAGUE, Contact Glenn Culp, 504.861.0233 KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, c e t u b b y @ c o x . n e t , KreweOfArmeinius.COM KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, TheOneKissFan@aol.com KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 71665, 70172, Pres. Wally McLaughlin 524.2915, Sec. Mae Falgout 484.6045 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, LambdaCenter.NET, info@lambdacenter.net, 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, PO Box 770435; 70117, LordsOfLeather.COM LOUISIANA STATE GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (LSGRA), 915.3339, lance@lsgra.com, LSGRA.COM METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS, Sunday Friendship Hour 4:15pm, Worship/Celebration, 5pm at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 Carrollton Ave. at Willow; Mailing Address: PO Box 71024, 70172; 945.5390, www.mccgno.com MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, 1021 Gov. Nicholls St., 70116, 525.4498, MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS BEAR & BEAR TRAPPER SOCIAL CLUB, PO Box 740894, 70174-0894; 5 2 9 . 6 9 7 5 , w w w . p r i d e s p e c i a l t y. c o m / BearClub.html, phoenicxs@hotmail.com NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 948.6884, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NEW ORLEANS WOMEN’S MUSIC COLLECTIVE, 2903 Jefferson Ave., 70115; Ann 838.7918, Sydney 833.2834 NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM MOC/NO [Men of Color/New Orleans], 482.5341 OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A 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, 828A 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

PRIDEFEST NEW ORLEANS, presented by New Orleans Alliance of Pride, 1000 Bourbon St., Box 365, New Orleans, LA 70116; pridefestneworleans@yahoo.com, www.nolapridefest.com PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 RA/UNO (Rainbow Alliance/University of New Orleans), Office of Campus Activities, 200 Lakeshore Dr., 70148; 280.6349; FAX: 280.6633. Regular meetings Thursdays, 12:301:30, RM 210 of UC, all students and members of UNO are welcome REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 ST. Mark's UMC (New Orleans), www.frenchquarterumc.org. St Mark’s is a part of the gay-affirming Reconciling Ministries Network of the United Methodist Church. TAU HOUSE MINISTRIES, 1029 Governor Nicholls, 70116, roddyssnd@aol.com, 529.3569. Mass on Sunday 4:15pm; Vespers on Monday, Wednesday, Friday 6pm. Everyone is welcome! TO DO PRODUCTIONS, 948.9608, www.todoproductions.org VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] KREWE OF APOLLO/SHREVEPORT, PO Box 4918, 71134 PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCAAIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717 Austin, TX [512] AUSTIN BABTIST WOMEN, 291.1563 www.babtistwomen.com. Raising Spirits and Millions of Dollars for Charity Since 1986. AUSTIN LATINO/LATINA LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL & TRANSGENDER ORGANIZATION [ALLGO], 1715 E. 6th St., Ste. 112, 78762-6149; 472.2001, allgo.org BI-MEN-TEXAS, Texas Chapter of the BiMEN Worldwide Network-now over 100,000 active male members. TX online support group and contact list for bisexual, bi-curious and gay adult men. Free. Annual Bi-Men Conference each Fall. www.bisexual.org/resources/ alist.asp KINGDOM SEEKERS IN CHRIST JESUS, 81 San Marcos St., 78702; 322.0049 MINISTRY OF COMMON SENSE SPIRITUALITY, PO Box 687411, 78701; 669.0608, Rev. N. Holmann, asknorbert.com PROJECT TRANSITIONS, PO Box 4826, 78765; 454.8646, projecttransitions.org, AIDShous ing@projecttransitions.org, dedicated to serving people with AIDS by providing hospice, housing and support in a compassionate and caring environment.

TEXAS GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (TGRA) Austin chapter, www.Austintgra.org Dallas, TX [214] KREWE OF APOLLO-DALLAS, KreweofApollo-Dallas.com Houston, TX [713] PRIDE COMMITTEE OF HOUSTON, PO Box 66071, 77266-6071; 529.6979, Fax 529.6929, info@pridehouston.org, pride houston.org San Antonio, TX [210] DIVERSITY CENTER (San Antonio & South Texas' GLBTQI Community Center), Office: 223.6106, Fax: 223.7419, TDD: 271.8025, HIV/ AIDS & GLBT Domestic Violence Hotline: Toll Free 1.866.452.2724, diversitycentersa.org

mail New Orleans, LA [504] MARIGNY MAIL, 2401 Burgundy, 948.7401

pets CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 37 French Market Place, 70116; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 510 Dumaine St., 274.0810

pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312

photography

www.tapelenders.com

submissions LGBT Call for Southern “Coming Out” Stories

printers

Submissions sought for a collection of narrative nonfiction stories focusing on the distinct nature of “coming out” in the South. Essays should weave thematic threads such as sexuality, race, gender, religion and class as uniquely experienced by southern LGBTs. Deadline: Feb 15, 2008. Guidelines: www.comingoutinthesouth.com. [is1907]

New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812

spas

real estate

Ft. Lauderdale, FL [954] CLUB FT. LAUDERDALE, 400 W. Broward Blvd., 525.3344, www.the-clubs.com Atlanta, GA [404] FLEX ATLANTA, 76 Fourth St., 815.0456 New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539] Austin, TX [512] MIDTOWNE SPA, 5815 Airport Blvd., 302.9696 Dallas, TX [214] CLUB DALLAS, 2616 Swiss Ave., 821.1990, www.the-clubs.com MIDTOWNE SPA, 2509 Pacific Ave., 821.8989 Houston, TX [713] CLUB HOUSTON, 2205 Fannin St., 659.4998, www.the-clubs.com MIDTOWNE SPA, 3100 Fannin St., 522.2379

New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com

New Orleans, LA [504] LATTER & BLUM, Agent Mary Lind, 948.3011, 539.9742, 581.2020 PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Brett A. Rector, Cell: 453.2277, Office: 861.6400, brettinla@aol.com PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Arden Kilgore, 296.8439

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] Bumpin' Tacos, 720 St. Louis, 565.7777 Buffa's, 1001 Esplanade at Burgundy, 949.0038 Bywater Bar.B.Que,3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965 Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Elizabeth’s Restaurant, 601 Gallier St., 944.9272, elizabeths-restaurant.com Hillery's on Toulouse, 827 1/2 Toulouse, 571.2888 Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, 948.7401, www.marignyperks.com Meauxbar Bistro, 942 N. Rampart St., 569.9979 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 Petunias, A Restaurant, Cajun, Creole, Crepes, Cocktails, 817 St. Louis, 70112; 522.6440 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416 Riche, Fulton Street at Poydras inside Harrah's Hotel, 533.6117 Tomatillo's Restaurant, 437 Esplanade Ave., 945.9997

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] ALTERNATIVES, 907 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.5222 BEAR NECESSITIES, 940 Decatur, 598.2134, BearsAndHares.COM BOURBON-STRIP TEASE, 205 Bourbon St., 70130; 581.6633, bourbontease.com THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 711 St. Peter [in French Quarter], 525.4372; 5055 Canal St. [near City Park Ave.], 488.4889 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 SERENDIPITOUS MASKS, 831 Decatur St., 522.9158 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip St., 561.8167 QUEEN FASHIONS.COM, 808 N. Rampart St., 524.HEEL (4335) queenfashions.com, exoticfashionmall.com WICKED ORLEANS, 1201 Decatur, 529.4384, WickedOrleans.COM

Austin, TX [512] GOMI, 233 W. 2nd St., 442.9977, gomikitti.com TAPELENDERS VIDEO/OUTLINES MENSWEAR AUSTIN, 1114 West 5th St., 472.0844,

tattoos/piercings New Orleans, LA [504] AARTACCENT TATTOO & PIERCING, 1041 N. Rampart in French Quarter, 581.9812; 5727 St. Claude, 949.5377 ELECTRIC LADYLAND TATTOO NEW ORLEANS, French Quarter-610 Frenchmen, 947.8286; Uptown-8106 Earhart, 866.3859 NOLATATTOO & PIERCING, 8120 Hampson St. uptown, 524.6147

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] MARIGNY THEATRE, 1030 Marigny St., 947.0505

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

Ambush Mag Get more for your ad $$$

504.522.8049 info@ambushmag.com 828-A Bourbon St. New Orleans

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paparazzi

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photos: Regina Adams, Miss Dee, Andy Denmark, NewOrleansGoneWild.COM

34th Official Southern Decadence Parade: Rawhide, Good Friends, Bourbon Pub, Napoleon's Itch, Oz, Ambush Headquarters, Lafitte's ~ New Orleans

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