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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain RipandMarsha.COM E-mail: info@ambushmag.com
Fund-raisers Set for 9th Gay Easter Parade Benefiting Food For Friends
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he 9th annual Gay Easter Parade is Sunday, March 23 beginning at 4:30pm sharp and will be led by Easter Grand Marshals IX Orlando Aloe and Safonda Peters. The parade minus expenses benefits Food For Friends, a vital service of the NO/AIDS Task Force. Past parades have raised over $35,700 for charity. The first fund-raiser is the 6th annual Spring Fever: A Gay Easter Parade Star Studded Benefit Gala & Silent Auction hosted by Easter Grand Marshal IV Electra City and partner Tittie Toulouse. It is set for Saturday, February 23, 10pm, at 4 Seasons, 3229 N. Causeway Blvd. in Metairie, and will feature some of New Orleans biggest stars. The second fund-raiser is the 7th annual Super Star Studded Drag Extravaganza & Auction set for Saturday, March 1, 8-10pm, at Cowpokes, 2240 St. Claude Ave. Under the direction of Easter Grand Marshals I Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, this show will star Easter Grand Marshals, Carnival queens and major titleholders. The 9th annual Purple Party Grand Marshals Reception & Auction hails once again from the Double Play, 439 Dauphine Street, on Saturday, March 8 from 8-10pm. Participants can look for an auction, prizes and the famous Double Play Buffet. The 9th annual Gay Easter Parade Pre-Parade Party and parade line-up is Sunday, March 23rd, 3pm, at Starlight By The Park, 834 N. Rampart St. Past Grand Marshals include EGMs I Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, EGMs II Larry Bagneris and the late Miss Do Moreland, EGMs III Timm Holt and Teryl- Lynn Foxx, EGMs IV George Simons and Electra City, EGMs V Brett Messmer and Princesse Stephaney, EGMs VI James Swire and Lisa Beaumann, EGMs VII Doc Reed and Opal Masters, and
inside
Pre-Easter Edition Due Out: Feb. 26 DEADLINE: Feb. 19
AMBUSH/main one last song celebrazzi gay mardi gras bead toss pics the pink pastor chop chop, cookin' w/auntie dee trodding the boards on the boards satyricon, lords ball pics in the spotlight/lords of leather
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EXPOSE/center ambush paparazzi/nola acadiana paparazzi/lafayette allons acadiana, tails of red stick red stick paparazzi/baton rouge mobile paparazzi official southern decadence classifieds ambush paparazzi/nola ambush paparazzi/nola
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 info@ambushmag.com
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Easter Grand Marshals IX Safonda Peters & Orlando Aloe
EGMs VIII Michael Elias and Tom "Rona" Conners. The parade is presented by Ambush Mag and Queen Fashions. Sponsorships are available at $1,000-Platinum, $500Gold, $250-Silver and $100-Bronze. Sponsors are already joining fundraising efforts including Silver-David Aranda and Daryl Dunaway, David and Rhonda Roget; and Bronze-King Satyricon V Tony Leggio. Carriages for the parade are available and carriage prices are as follows: 2, 4 and 6 passenger-$285; 8, 10 and 12 passenger-$350; and 15, 20 and 25 passenger-$540. Prices include parade entry fee. Entry Fee for car, truck, float, bike club or marching/walking group is $15. Proof of insurance must be provided on each car, truck, float, motorcycle or motorized vehicle with parade application. Deadline for entering the parade is Friday, March 14. You can get your entry form on-line at GayEasterParade.COM or by contacting Rip NaquinD e l a i n , 504.522.8047. The Board of Directors of the Gay Easter Parade include Electra City, Rona Conners, Opal Masters, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, and Tittie Toulouse.
New Owners to Keep Golden Lantern the Same The new owners of The Golden Lantern plan to keep things as they are at the sec[continued on Main-6]
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, Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson Tennessee - Knoxville Texas - Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, 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 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands, Patrick Shannon AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Benedict-Baton Rouge, LA
Patrick Clinton-Lafayette, LA Regina Adams, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Miss Dee, Donnie Jay-New Orleans DJ Chromatic, Leon Weekley-Mobile, AL Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media~212.242.6863 AMBUSH Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip 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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the "official" dish ...from Main-4 ond oldest gay bar in New Orleans at 1239 Royal Street. Wild rumors have been circulating throughout the city that major changes were going to occur. Other than sprucing up the place and replacing antiquated equipment and tvs with up-to-date ones, locals and visitors will find the Home of Southern Decadence as the friendly neighborhood bar that it has always been. The new proprietors own Tubby's Video Bar in Ft. Myers, Florida.
Cher to Headline The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning May 6
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as Vegas - The legendary Cher confirmed a long-lived rumor that she will headline in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning May 6. The performance agreement, which is in partnership with AEG Live, includes approximately 200 shows over a span of three years. Cher at The Colosseum, an impressive spectacle designed exclusively for the 4,300-seat venue, will feature countless chart-topping hits from the artist’s unparalleled career. The show will be complemented by extraordinary choreography from Doriana Sanchez, state-of-theart lighting and special effects and breathtaking costumes designed by the worldrenowned fashion icon, Bob Mackie. “I started in Vegas at Caesars, so I’ve come full circle,” Cher said. “I’m back and I plan to give my fans the best experience yet. I think everybody knows I only do things in a big way.” A world famous superstar for more than 40 years, the Oscar and Emmy-winning performer has conquered every endeavor - concerts, recordings, Broadway, TV, movies, film directing and books. Cher has released more than 25 albums and sold over 100 million records worldwide in her Grammy-winning solo recording career. “The fan anticipation leading up to this announcement has been unprecedented,” said John Meglen, co-CEO and President of AEG Live/Concerts West. “Cher’s talent is legendary around the globe and there is simply no one like her. AEG Live is proud to be involved with Cher in a project that once again reinforces Las Vegas as the entertainment capital of the world.” “Cher’s name in one word encapsulates icon, award-winning legend, and captivating performer. There is only one home for someone of that legendary status - the most recognized casino brand in the world, Caesars Palace,” said Caesars Palace President, Gary Selesner. “Caesars is pleased to welcome Cher back to Las Vegas’ most prestigious entertainment address, The Colosseum, joining Bette Midler and Elton John.” The 90-minute show will be presented at 7:30pm four nights a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday (dark Monday, Thursday and Friday). Tickets for performances from May 6 through August 31 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 1.866.510.CHER (2437) or online at www.ticketmaster.com, keyword “Cher”. Tickets may also be purchased in person at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Box Office open daily from 10am to 10pm. For
groups of 20 or more, call 702.731.7208. Ticket prices are $95, $140, $175 and $250. Visit cher.aeglive.com for more information on Cher at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. AEG Live, the live-entertainment division of Los Angeles based AEG is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performance, touring for a variety of programming and multi-media production. One of the largest concert promotion and touring companies in the world, AEG Live is comprised of special event, broadcast and exhibition divisions, and operates and owns numerous state of the art venues nationwide. Recent AEG Live tours and productions include Celine Dion A New Day..., which just ended a landmark five year run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace and “Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs,” an international tour of the artifacts of King Tut. Recent and current promoted concert tours include Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Prince, Bon Jovi, Usher, Nickelback, Kenny Chesney, Rod Stewart, and Paul McCartney. AEG Live also co-produces the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Goldenvoice, the company’s southern California-based regional promotion division, created and operates the award winning annual Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. Caesars Palace is the world’s best known resort-casino, celebrating the glory that was Greece and the grandeur that was Rome, in an 85-acre destination location that sets the standard for entertainment, dining and luxury. Reigning at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, Caesars Palace ranks among the world’s top luxury resorts known for their originality and beauty and features 3,348 hotel guest rooms and suites, 25 unique restaurants and cafes, 4.5-acre Garden of the Gods pools and gardens, 50,000 square foot Qua Baths & Spa and 240,000 square feet of premium meeting and convention space. The 4,100-seat Colosseum sits just steps from celebrity chef restaurants and the acclaimed Forum Shops at Caesars and spotlights world class entertainers such as Bette Midler, Elton John, Jerry Seinfeld and starting in May 2008, Cher.
Ceremonial Art of Amazonia Coming to Birmingham Museum of Art
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irmingham, AL-For thousands of years, the indigenous people of the Amazon Basin of South America have depended on the vast rainforests surrounding them. Today, some 300 tribes continue to rely on the land’s natural resources for their survival, and to maintain age-old ceremonial and ritual traditions central to their cultures. From March 30 to July 27, The Birmingham Museum of Art presents “Vanishing Worlds: Art and Ritual in Amazonia,” an exhibition of spectacular and rare works of Amazonian material culture, including full body costumes, masks, feather headdresses, body ornaments, baskets, weapons, pottery, and textiles. The carefully crafted and vibrantly colored objects were made for use in rituals and ceremonies central to the life of Amazonian peoples, and range in age from 30 to 100 years. Many were worn by shamans and other community members during rituals such as name-giving
Karaja: Headdress, Karajá people, Brazil, split cane, vegetal fibers, cotton fibers, Macaw feathers. The Adam Mekler Collection Courtesy of The Houston Museum of Natural Science.
ceremonies for the young, initiation into adulthood, and rituals surrounding death and bereavement, harvest, and healing. “The incredible art and material culture of the Amazon has not been widely shown or published - it is not well known,” says Emily Hanna, Curator of the Arts of Africa and the Americas at the Birmingham Museum of Art. “These masterful works are compelling not only for their brilliant forms, but for their profound significance within the culture. We are very pleased to be able to bring these works to Birmingham.” The objects in Vanishing Worlds exhibit exquisite artistry and, although utilitarian, are masterpieces of color and design. They are made from materials gathered from the forest, including wood and bark, beetle wings, grasses, shells, seeds, clay, and beeswax. Perhaps the most visually stunning objects are made with brilliantly colored feathers of some 40 species of birds, including parrots, macaws, and herons. These artworks give shape to belief, and embody tightly woven relationships between the human community and natural environment, and between the visible and invisible worlds. The exhibition highlights eight tribal groups, including people of the Ka’apor, Karajá, Tapirapé, Ticuna, Shipibo-Conibo, Shuar, Kayapó, and Xingu River regions. These groups inhabit a vast area that ranges from the Atlantic coast of Brazil to the foothills of the Andes in Peru and Ecuador. Prior to European exploration in 1500, some three to five million people lived in the Amazon River basin. Today fewer than 100,000 Amazonian tribal people survive in an area that covers 2.5 million square miles. While most of the cultures represented by artifacts in this exhibition still exist, the vast majority of the tribes of the Amazon have disappeared. The unique and fragile works in Vanishing Worlds reflect the threatened existence of their creators, as well as the crisis of the rainforest environment in which they were made. This exhibition was organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science and has been shown at the Cantor Art Center of Stanford University, the Mayborn Museum at Baylor University, and the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Art and Archeology. The Birmingham Museum of Art is the final venue for the exhibition. A companion exhibition never before
Mekragnoti: Headdress, KayapoMekragnoti people, Brazil, vegetal fibers, feathers from Scarlet Macaw, Blue-and-yellow Macaw, Hyacinth Macaw. The Adam Mekler Collection Courtesy of The Houston Museum of Natural Science.
shown outside of Peru, Children, Let’s Protect Our Forests, features paintings by Peruvian children of the Amazon. The art project was organized by the Federation of Indigenous Organization of the Peruvian Amazon and was supported by the Swiss aid organization Nouvelle Planète. The children produced hundreds of paintings about changes and damage to the ecology of the Amazon that were exhibited in Iquitos, Peru. The exhibition helped raise Peruvian consciousness about the importance of protecting the environment. The curator responsible for the exhibitions presentation at the Birmingham Museum of Art is Emily Hanna, Ph.D., Curator of the Arts of Africa and the Americas. This exhibit was organized and curated by Associate Curator Adam Mekler and Curator of Anthropology Dirk Van Tuerenhout, Ph.D., both of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Visitor Information: The Birmingham Museum of Art is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday Noon-5pm. Admission is free. Docents offer free tours of the permanent collection Tuesday-Friday at Noon and topical tours on Sunday at 2pm. The Museum is located at 2000 8th Ave North. Parking is free to Museum guests. For information, call 205.254.2565 or go to www.artsbma.org. The Birmingham Museum of Art, one of the finest regional museums in the United States, houses a diverse collection of more than 17,000 paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings and decorative arts dating from ancient to modern times. The Museum’s extensive holdings of Asian, European, American, African, Precolumbian and Native American art presents a rich panorama of cultures. Surrounded by breath-taking works created by the masters of antiquity and icons of the art world, Museum visitors take part in global discovery. Related Programs: ArtBreak, Tuesday, April 8, Noon, Birds of the Amazon, Tim Snyder, Curator of Birds, Birmingham Zoo; With 17 years’ experience in zoo aviculture, Snyder is an expert on a widevariety of bird species. He is an active conservationist and recently led a trip to Costa Rica, home to some of the most colorful species of birds including Macaws, Parrots
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the "official" dish ...from Main-6
one last song by Donnie "Jager" Jay, SDGM XXXII E-mail: donniejay@hotmail.com
Mark's Story: Part Four
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s they walked down the pathway leading out to the street Jim and Carlos did so arm and arm. Jim had not felt this free in much to long a time, in public anyway. Naturally everyone who was anyone knew his sexual preference, after all this was in truth a small community, admittedly primarily existing on gay tourist dollars, but none the less primarily owned and run by the straight world, who had learned early on and quickly, that cash was cash, after all no matter who was spending it, and who had opened their business and bank accounts to the their fastest growing market. In other words, no one paid much
attention to who was or was not holding hands as they strolled around the lush tropical island in the evening hours. Just as they were about to enter the main drive and head towards downtown, Carlos stopped abruptly and turned Jim to face him. Jim looked into Carlos dark eyes, a little startled, it happened so quickly. “Is something wrong?” he asked almost hesitantly. Carlos only smiled at him and releasing Jim's hand cupped his around the back of Jim’s neck and drew his boss in towards him; kissing him long and hard. “I just wanted to thank you, that is all.” [continued on Main-9]
and Toucans. In this presentation, Snyder will give an illustrated talk on the varied species of birds from this region. Family Day, Amazon Adventure, Saturday, April 12, 11am - 3pm, Members Only from 10-11am; Embark on an adventure into the Amazon rainforest with live animals, art activities, face painting, and more. Museum family days typically draw thousands of visitors, so you will not want to miss this special occasion! Lecture, Sunday, April 13, 2pm; Dr. Jeremy Narby, Anthropologist and Author of Cosmic Serpent Narby will give a public lecture about his research on shamanism in the Amazon. He is an anthropologist with Nouvelle Planète, a nonprofit organization based on the ethics of Albert Schweitzer, seeking a balance between all forms of life. Amazon Tour and Film, Sunday, June 8, Topic Tour, 2pm: Vanishing Worlds: Art and Ritual in Amazonia, Film, 2:30pm: The Burning Season, 1994, 123 minutes; Raul Julia won an Emmy, a Golden
Globe, and a Screen Actors Guild award for his portrayal of Brazilian rubber tapper Chico Mendes. The film is based on the true story of Mendes, who led his people in protest against government and developers who razed the rainforest for a new road and ranch land. Also starring Edward James Olmos.
The Highlands Inn Celebrates 25 Years as “Lesbian Paradise”
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ethlehem, NH - The Highlands Inn will celebrate its 25th year in business in 2008! Named by PlanetOut as “one of the most romantic lesbian destinations on the planet,” lesbian-owned Highlands is one of very few resorts or inns that cater to a women-only clientele. To have succeeded in this niche market is a remarkable accomplishment for a small business. The owner, Grace Newman, bought the 100-acre property in 1983. The Highlands quickly became known as a warm, welcoming women’s place, where guests can relax and “be themselves.” Located in New Hampshire’s major vacation destination, the White Mountains, the Inn has 19 rooms in three buildings. Several of the rooms have a fireplace, private deck, or 2person spa. Newman says “It’s amazing how things have changed since we opened the Inn. Gay-friendly accommodations were a thing of the distant future! It was usually pretty awkward for a same-sex couple to share a room. Now lesbians and gay men are considered a valuable market, worthy of special efforts to get our business.” Highlands will celebrate its 25th year with a birthday party on the weekend of May 9-11. Saturday night will feature a catered dinner followed by champagne and dancing with a LIVE band, Truth or Dare. Newman is thrilled that the Highlands’ 25th anniversary coincides with the first year of New Hampshire’s new civil union law, which went into effect on January 1, 2008. The Highlands is well-prepared to assist women who wish to have a New Hampshire civil union ceremony. Over the years, the Inn has been the site of dozens of commitment ceremonies, and hundreds of couples have honeymooned at the Inn or stayed there while becoming “civilly united”. The Highlands hosted a New Hampshire civil union ceremony for two couples on January 1, 2008, just minutes after the new civil union law became effective. “We were so happy to have been able to begin the new year with this ceremony,” Newman says. “We always have a big New Year’s party at the Inn. I was very touched to see that all of our guests who were there for the party attended the civil union ceremony to wish the couples well. It was one of the proudest times of my years as an innkeeper!” The Highlands Inn recently received the 2007 Pink Choice award for its reliably high ratings from members of Pink Choice (www.pinkchoice.com), a website for lesbian and gay travelers seeking information about accommodations worldwide. The Highlands is also a member of Worlds Foremost Gay & Lesbian Hotels (www.worldsforemost.com) and has consistently been selected by PlanetOut as a top destination for women. For more info visit, www.highlandsinn-nh.com.
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one last song ...from Main-8 “Thank me, for what?” “For asking me out this evening, for not worrying about what other people might think or say about it.” Carlos smiled broadly. “I gave up on caring about what others think about me long ago.” Jim kissed him back. This was of course not exactly the truth. He was concerned about gossip, he always had been, he had heard his share of it all most all of his adult live. He had his own reasons for fearing it, and the number one was that it might be true. This is what had happened between him and Mark, which seemed like an eternity ago right now. Tonight was more than likely the best he had felt, in all those years that had passed, he was actually at this time, right here and now, about to go out on his real first date in all this time. Still, even though there would be talk about him dining with his companion this evening, he knew that, he also knew that the date was just that, a legitimate date. Unlike the gossip that had flown around him and Mark, years past, which unfortunately had turned out to be true, and brought their fledgling romance to an unhappy end, this evening could not be touched by what any one would say, because he knew just what the truth here really was. There was no doubt to linger anywhere in his thoughts. He had indeed asked Carlos out for dinner, without the mention of any rumination of any sort at all. They had spent the morning enjoying each other at Carlos’s instigation, and it had turned out good. No not good, but great. At the same moment as Jim and Carlos were heading out on their evening together on what they were both hoping would be the start of something for the both of them, Mark was sitting on the foot of his bed, his eyes misting thinking about his life, as it had been with Jim and what he had given up for his lustful alter ego. The side of his personality, which had led to the end of a very good thing, was preparing this evening to take him away from the freezing cold and into the balmy tropics of the South Florida Keys. Tomorrow morning as Jake, he would arrive to spend a week in paradise, free to do anything and anyone who came along and never look back. The story of his sad young life since he was abandoned by Jim, not that he could of blamed him in any way for their splitting, for he had come to realize that it was no one’s fault but his own. He wrapped his arms tightly around his chest and laid back on the bed imagining that it was Jim who was holding him tightly. Jim who had held him tightly as he had slept for so many years of his young life. Jim who had always been his protector. He was very good at this, being able as if by some magic to conjure up his past lover, to imagine that they were still together, pushing away the truth as if nothing had ever bad taken place between the two of them. Perhaps it was his way of avoiding the truth, of keeping his hold on what little sanity he had left, people have been known to remember just what they want to from time to time. So he laid here quietly in his ex lovers arms and fell asleep. And while he slept, he dreamed, he dreamt not as Jake but as Mark and he was safe and secure in Jim’s arms, as he should always be. He had no desire for anything or anyone else, he was home, he
was where he truly belonged. He had made it back at last and would never stray again, never he promised, never again. Carlos and Jim ate at one of Key West’s most well known restaurants, one frequented by only the snobbiest, most affluent, and aging, what one would refer to as dowager queens, of the winter visitors and residents. Most of whom who were so shocked to see Jim with someone other than himself or a close friend could barely hide their amazement. Well their tongues would certainly be wagging come morning at their Bloody Mary coffee clutches. They were called coffee clutches after their long gone straight counter parts of South Beach’s old society, though hardly any coffee was consumed any longer. But what did remain was the gossip, and that is what they all gathered for so early in the morning, at one shop, guest house or private home, before heading out for their day at the beach. Jim was certain who would be the center of the gossip would be the next morning, and to tell the truth he was reveling it, as he reached across the
table, brushed Carlos’ hair from his eyes, drew him closer and kissed his forehead. You could almost hear an audible gasp race across the dining room. “Would you care to dance?” he asked Carlos. Carlos looked out on the dance floor, there was just one older straight couple gliding along to the pianist accompaniment. “Are you for real?” he was slightly taken aback. “Of course I am when have you known me not to be for real?” Jim stood offering his hand to Carlos, who stood as well, and all eyes followed them as they joined the other couple on the dance floor. Jim began to lead and as if they had planned it for months before, Carlos fell right into the movements of a waltz. As the two couples passed each other on the floor they nodded their acceptance of each other, like two friendly ships passing in the night. Jim smiled silently to himself; this was beginning to feel so natural to him, so wonderful, so real, it was something that had been missing for so long in his life. The two
couples danced another dance, until the pianist went on his break, the gentleman and lady turned and applauded the other couple, the two younger men, turned and returned their gesture, and then something unreal began to happen, the entire room suddenly erupted in applause. The couples smiled at each other, then turned in toward their respective partners and if it had been rehearsed, bowed to each other and returned to their respective tables. “What a rush that was.” Carlos smiled as Jim pulled out his chair smiling as he sat. “You know man; you make me feel like a natural woman,” he joked. “Let’s not get carried away, I happen to like the way you're put together, as far as I’m concerned you got everything in all the right places.” Jim sat, as the waiter showed up with their main courses. After dinner, the two strolled, hand and hand again, to one of the most popular night spots on the island. It was primarily a gay club, a little ritzier than most [continued on Main-10]
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one last song ...from Main-9 places perhaps and it was just as popular with the straight college kids that drove down from northern and central Florida to party on the weekends, it had probably the most up to date DJs of any club in the state. It was usually packed to the rafters, tonight was no exception, and the music was pulsating as they walked into the room, writhing bodies were everywhere and you could hardly tell who was dancing with whom. Carlos led the way through the maze of bodies toward the bar at the far end of the club, he obviously knew where to head in this throbbing ocean of people, for when he arrived there, believe it or not there were at least a half a dozen places to sit. He took a seat at the corner of the bar and Jim sat down next to him facing out where he could see over the dance floor. “Is this place always like this?” he whispered in Carlos’ ear. “You got to take a piss?” Carlos asked back. “No man,” he raised his voice to be heard, “Is this place always like this?” “Just Fridays and Saturdays, on some holidays and you can’t even fathom spring break,” he laughed. “So this is where you hang?” “Sometimes, not always, I like the music, I like to dance, but sometimes I like to mellow out at a bar where you can actually have a conversation, you really can’t do that very well here.” “No, I don’t think you could,” Jim smiled. “Do you want to leave?” “We just got here, I’m kind of digging it a bit, if you don’t mind hanging for awhile I’m game.” He no longer got the words out of his mouth, when Manuel saddled up to the bar next to them with his date for the evening. “Hey cousin, when did you get here?” He shook Carlos hand, fingering it and smiling, indicating the gentleman he was with was still interested in the same financial escapade, he had suggested before. If looks could have killed, he would have fallen off of the barstool instantly from the one on Carlos’ face. “Can I purchase a beverage, your choice of course, and one for your friend?” The gentleman held out his hand toward Carlos. Carlos did not accept it as he stood and turned towards Jim. “I’m afraid we were just leaving, but thank you anyway.” By this time he had almost picked Jim up off his barstool. “Aren’t we babe?” “Huh?” Jim questioned, having missed everything that had just taken place up to this moment. “My cousins’ friend just offered to buy us a beverage, I said that would be nice, but we were just leaving.” Carlos’ had him completely on his feet now and was about to guide him towards the door. “It would have been nice, but we are going, I guess?” Jim was still saying his good-byes as he was guided through the front doors. “What in the hell was that all about.” “My ass.” “Your ass? What about it?” “My cousin was trying to sell it to his date.” Jim broke out with uncontrollable laughter. “You think that’s funny? What’s wrong with my ass, you don’t think it’s worth anything.” “Sweetheart, your ass is worth a mil-
lion dollars, if I had that much I would kneel before you and make an offer.” “Kneel before me and you are more than likely to get something else,” Carlos winked. “I’ll take it.” He said dropping to his knees on the sidewalk directly in front of the club. Carlos moved his hand directly to his fly and started to pull the zipper down, but stopped halfway. “Get up, for heavens sake, I don’t want to end up in the police station on our first date, I haven’t got the money to get us out.” “I do.” Jim reached for his crotch. “The police station could sub for heaven if we were locked up together.” “You are a relentless romantic.” Carlos replied zipping up his fly. “Let’s go have a quiet drink and then I’ll walk you back to your place.” Carlos pulled Jim back on his feet and they started back down the main drag. They walked together down to the first side street and Carlos led him down it about half a block turning into the first bar. Jim didn’t have to look at the sign; it was his personal favorite place. They sat at a table and had their first quiet drink together. Jim thought how strange it was that Carlos had brought him here; he had not noticed the many nights he sat alone, him, the lonely figure staring at him from across the street. They had more than one drink, I’m sure you would understand that, and helping each other back to Jim’s place, it didn’t take anytime at all for Carlos to be talked into spending the night. Once again the night was unbelievable between them. Neither one of them awakened until noon. Neither one of them had even heard Manny check in the new visitor, one Jake a.k.a. Mark. What a surprise they would all have tomorrow…Jim could here faintly being played somewhere…Maybe this time I’ll be Lucky, Maybe this time he’ll stay…..He gathered Carlos up in his arms, he wanted this to be their One Last Song. Manny followed Jake up to his room carrying his luggage, I don’t think anyone has to be told what was in the back of their minds. To be concluded next issue. You may contact me at donniejay@hotmail.com.
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AMBUSH
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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)
K
ing Barkus XVI Yeller with master Ken Grandpre of Wood Enterprises leads the 16th Mystic Krewe of Barkus Parade through the streets of the French Quarter.
T
he 21st annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss brought the multitudes to the famous Bourbon Street Balcony of Ambush Headquarters in New Orleans. Led by King Cake Queen XV Marsha Naquin-Delain, the Fleur de Lis Queen, invited celebrities from New Orleans society joined the Krewe of Queenateenas tossing thousands of pearls to the crowds below. The krewe’s 2008 theme, Nepotism: Every Captain A Queen, showcased its satirical side in true Mardi Gras fashion. For more on Mardi Gras, visit GayMardiGras.COM. Photo: King Satyricon V Tony Leggio, Ray Pfister, Richie Rich, Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXIII Regina Adams, Timm Holt, KCQ VII Stephanie Williams, KCQ XIII Raven Kennedy, reigning KCQ XV Marsha Naquin-Delain, KCQ X Teryl-Lynn Foxx, KCQ IX Lisa Beaumann, KCQ XIV Princesse Stephaney, Easter Grand Marshal IX Safonda Peters, Miss America Rhonda Roget, Elizabeth Bouvier and David Roget.
K
ing and Queen Satyricon VI Scott Loyed and Carl Mack brought the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon's 6th annual ball to a fever pitch reflecting Fantastic Dreams, the 2008 theme of the ball held at the Sugar Mill in New Orleans. For more on the krewe, visit MysticKreweofSatyricon.COM.
A
uthor Jack Beach popped in for a Lundi Gras Reading/ Signing of his book, Beads, Belles and Balls, at FAB: Faubourg Marigny Arts and Books in New Orleans.
L L
ord King XXV Michael Ducote as Batman and Lord Consort XXV Doug Minich as Robin, celebrated the Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXV: Salute to Superheroes at the Alario Center in New Orleans as the final gay ball of the season. For more on the Lords, visit LordsOfLeather.COM. EFT: The Boys of Montreal join Corner Pocket Bar Baron Michael Elias for his annual presentation of Boys on the Bar at the oldest male strip club in New Orleans Mardi Gras weekend. Photo: Sebastien, Criss, Michael Elias, Diego and Francis. For more, visit CornerPocket.NET.
R
ight: The winners of the 4th annual Rampart Street Mardi Gras Awards Costume Contest pose at Starlight By The Park in New Orleans. For more on the club, visit StarlightByThePark.COM.
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Easter Grand Marshals IX Orlando Aloe & Safonda Peters
KCQ XIII Raven Kennedy, KCQ XV Marsha, KCQ X Teryl-Lynn Foxx & KCQ IX Lisa Beaumann
The Queen Bee, EGM VIII Rona Conners
Brian Rhode & Adam Reiman Bartender of the Year Stephen Murrell & Elizabeth Bouvier
Tittie Toulouse & Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXIV Electra City
Gene & Karen Riggleman Kitty Blackwell, KCQ XV Marsha & KCQ V Liz Simms The Fleur de Lis Queen, Marsha Naquin-Delain, KCQ XV
KCQ IX Lisa Beaumann & Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXIV Quadalupe
KCQ XIV Princesse Stephaney, KCQ XV Marsha & KCQ X Teryl-Lynn Foxx
Josie Mae & Rudy Cotton
Bill Cook & KCQ X Teryl-Lynn Foxx Sam & KCQ VII Stephanie Williams
David & Rhonda Roget, Amon Ra’s Miss America
photos: Larry Graham, Hector Trau, Stephanie Williams
KCQ XV Marsha, Tami Tarmac & King Amon Ra XLIII Paul Davis
Ray Pfister & Richie Rich
Julius Dietz & KCQ XV Marsha
KCQ XIV Princesse Stephaney closes out the bead toss with Hector Trau
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21st Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss led by King Cake Queen XV Marsha Naquin-Delain
KCQ XIII Raven Kennedy, KCQ XV Marsha, KCQ X Teryl-Lynn Foxx & KCQ IX Lisa Beaumann
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the pink pastor
S
by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, 504.214.4340 E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com www.thebigeasymccblog.blogspot.com
o Mardi Gras (my first Mardi Gras) is over. For a newcomer it was an extraordinary display of vitality, a celebration of life, and a modern reminder of an ancient religious festival. That was all well and good, but for me what struck me most, and caused me the most grief was the presence of the ‘religious’ hate mongers on Bourbon Street; each one holding up their shopping list of sins leading to damnation. On Saturday, I shouted myself hoarse for a good hour publicly contradicting some of the more wicked statements they made on their placards, but while I didn’t have a great deal of hope I would covert them from hatred to universal love and tolerance, I did hope passers-by who were hurt by what they were saying would at least see someone offering a different view. Let me take the opportunity here to challenge not just the little things on their damnation lists, but their whole reason for being – their whole view of God is obscured by this veil of hatred they have covered themselves with. Whatever our theological views, it is a basis of our relationship with God that God is love, God is truth and God is justice. Therefore no actions of ours which have as their starting point hatred, falsehood or
injustice can ever lead to God. At one point on Saturday afternoon, one of the go-go boys from the Bourbon Pub was in the street challenging a group of fundamentalists. It turns out that the dancer was a devout Christian and was
profoundly hurt by what they were saying to him – their response to that hurt was further mockery and abuse. I had one of them inches from my face screaming ‘sissy pastor!’ at me, and although my instinct
was to yell back, I ended by praying over him, and for him – after which he said ‘that was the devil praying’. This is not Christianity. If these people are right, then 99.9% of the human race is doomed, and if that is true then there seems to have been little point in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. There would have been little point in the creation of the universe, or the creation of humanity if it was only for eternal damnation. To these people Mother Theresa is burning eternally because she was a Catholic. To these people God is in human form, the form of an ignorant bigot struggling with sexual demons. To these people God is effectively whatever they say God is. Rather then let us look at human mercy. If a mere man or woman can forgive, how much more the God who is forgiveness? If a mere man or woman can love a stranger, or someone different to them, how much more can the God who calls us to love? If even I (God help me) can see the light shining from the joyful crowds at Mardi Gras how much more the God that created them and gave them the capacity to feel joy? The virtues that we prize as human beings all flow from God; love, mercy, joy, faithfulness – and they all give us an insight into the nature of God as they reflect, no matter how dimly, the wellspring of those virtues that is God. From our lives and experiences we see therefore that God is not some grim old man who hates us; God is the fount of love who adores us, who seeks us out, and offers us true happiness and joy. This is a part of life that the demonstrators have missed; they all assume that everyone who was at Mardi Gras was ‘Godless’ and only they had the truth. In reality there was more of God in the joy and energy of the revelers than there was in the dry cruel world of those men. There was certainly more of God in the faith of that gogo dancer, and in his honest attempt to follow Jesus’ commands to love and be loved by God than in the shriveled wreck of a human soul that opposed him and me on Saturday afternoon.
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God bless you all and keep you through a Holy and fulfilling Lent.
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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain www.ripandmarsha.com E-mail: info@ambushmag.com
New Orleans Restaurant Guide 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 11am-9pm Mon.-Fri., and 9am-9pm Sat. & Sun. Closed Wed. Call 944.4445 for additional info. MasterCard/Visa accepted. 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. Country Club Cafe, 634 Louisa St. Under the direction of new Chef Miles Prescott, you will find delightful menus offering French bistro cuisine including appetizers, soups, flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, wraps, entrees and desserts. Serving Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am–12midnight, Sunday 10am– 10pm, Sunday Brunch 10am–3pm, closed Tuesday. Call 945.0742 for additional information or visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops for fast food with tasty burgers, hot dogs and breakfast. Call 523.4030 for more info.
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 11am5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days. Call 522.6746 for info. Petunias, A Restaurant, 817 St. Louis, is open daily 8am-10pm serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, crepes, po-boys, salads, gumbo, Cajun/Creole specialties and dinner. 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 brasserie-style 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. 11am-10pm; 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. a lettuce wedge on each plate. Combine bacon, Parmesan cheese, and chopped chives. Pour Blue Cheese dressing over lettuce wedges; sprinkle the bacon mixture over top.
CRAB STUFFED LOBSTER TAILS
cookin' with auntie dee by Donnie Jay E-mail: auntiedeej@hotmail.com Photo©GrahamStudioOne.COM
Valentine's Dinner
Y
es my little dears it is that time of the year, a time to tell that special someone, be it a him or her that they are very special and you do care more than they’ll ever know. Well here is one way to let them know, a special Valentine's dinner for two, cooked and served with love. Don’t forget to send flowers and a card, make the whole day a special one for your significant other. Per-
haps, you don’t have one as yet, but you do have your eye on someone special, well go for it, after all the way to the heart is through the stomach, or so they say.
ICEBERG WEDGES WITH BLUE CHEESE DRESSING 2 wedges from a medium head of iceberg lettuce 4 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/8 cup chopped fresh chives Blue Cheese Dressing 1 cup mayonnaise 1 (8-ounce) container sour cream 1 (4-ounce) package crumbled blue cheese 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon lemon juice Stir all ingredients together. Cover and chill until ready to use. Keep lettuce wedges well chilled until ready to assemble. To serve place
2 quarts water 2 tablespoons salt 2 (1 ½ - 1 ¾ -pound) live Maine lobster ½ pound fresh lump crabmeat 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons fine breadcrumbs ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon lemon juice Garlic-Butter Sauce (recipe follows) Combine water and salt in a large Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Plunge lobsters head-first into boiling water; return to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer ten minutes; drain and cool. For each lobster, break off large claws and legs shells, using a seafood or nut cracker; remove meat. Break off tail. Cut top side of tail shell lengthwise, using kitchen shears. Cut through center of meat; remove vein. Leave meat in shell; rinse. Drain crabmeat, remove any bits of shell. Combine crabmeat, garlic and next eight ingredients; toss gently. Spoon crab filling onto lobster tails. Place on baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for twelve minutes or just until heated. Serve with Garlic-Butter Sauce and claw and leg meat. Yield: 2 servings. Garlic-Butter Sauce ½ cup butter 2 tablespoons whipping cream 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons lemon juice Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat; add whipping cream and garlic, and cook one minute, stirring [continued on Main-22]
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
E-mail: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Broadway on Demand at Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse
T
ake four of our area’s most talented singer/performers, a director with a flair for cabaret, and songs from Broadway’s juke box stretching from the 1920s to today and the result is Broadway on Demand, the delightful revue playing through February 16 at Minacapelli’s in Slidell. Broadway show tunes? “Been there, done that,” might be your understandable reaction. But Jonne Dendinger, who conceived and directed the show, has chosen her numbers wisely, kept the pacing brisk, and guided her cast to fresh-sounding interpretations of these (mostly) chestnuts. Moreover, she has sequenced the songs so that, while no attempt is made to tell a story, each one resonates with those that precede and follow it. Thus There’s No Business Like Show Business (from Annie Get Your Gun), Another Opening, Another Show (Kiss
cookin' with auntie dee ...from Main-20 constantly with a wire whisk. Stir in lemon juice. Remove from heat. Yield: 2/3 cup.
FRESH BASIL CORN ON THE COB 2 ears fresh corn with husks 1/8 cup butter, softened ¼ teaspoon grated orange rind 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil Remove heavy outer husks from corn; pull back inner husks. Remove and discard silks. Pull husks back over corn, and place on a microwave safe dish. Microwave on high seven minutes, turning corn after three and a half minutes. Stir together butter, orange rind, and basil. Pull back husks, and brush the butter mixture evenly over corn. Yield: 2 servings.
PERFECT BAKED POTATO For each person bake one potato, so for this menu we are going to make two. First of all scrub two large baking potatoes with a vegetable brush; pat dry. Pierce each potato 3 or four times with a fork, and rub with butter or olive oil for a crisper skin. Rub with salt or sea salt if desired. (Do not wrap in foil. Wrapping holds in moisture, causing a texture similar to a boiled potato. If you like soft skins, wrap potato in foil after baking, and let stand ten minutes.) Bake potato directly on the oven rack, at 450 degrees for one hour and ten minutes. If baking more than four potatoes, add five minutes to the baking time for each additional potato.
SOUR CREAM YEAST ROLLS ¼ cup sour cream ¼ cup butter ¼ cup sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1 (¼ ounce) envelope active dry yeast ¼ cup warm water (100-110 degrees)
Me, Kate) and Together, Wherever We Go (Gypsy) start off the show in full gear. The exuberance of I Wonder Why/You’re Just in Love (Call Me Madam) leads into the joy of Almost Like Being in Love (Brigadoon), followed by the getting-toknow-you-ness of Small World (Gypsy). The giddiness of Tonight at 8 (She Loves Me) comes next before the more contemplative A Quiet Place (Flora, the Red Menace) and What I Did For Love (A Chorus Line). If the second act is a teensy more disjointed than the first, that’s because at each performance the audience gets to vote for four songs (out of a list of 29) that will then be slotted into the line-up. This was so smoothly done that unless one of your choices makes the cut, you might be unaware that every show is a veritable opening night. And while one might wish for a few more choices, other than two from Jekyll & Hyde, that are less than twenty years old, Hairspray’s delectable (You’re) Timeless To Me gets done every night. Tony Fennelly’s minimal dialog is just 1 large egg beaten 2 cups all-purpose flour Melted butter to brush rolls when done Cook first four ingredients in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until butter melts. Cool mixture to 100 degrees. Dissolve yeast in ¼ cup warm water in a large bowl; let stand five minutes. Stir in sour cream mixture and egg. Gradually add flour to yeast mixture, mixing well. (Dough will be wet.) Cover and chill eight hours. Punch dough down. Shape into 36 (1-inch) balls; place 3 balls in each lightly greased muffin cup. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, one hour or until doubled in bulk. Bake at 375 degrees for ten to twelve mi nutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter. Yield: One dozen.
FRESH STRAWBERRIES WITH HOT FUDGE SAUCE 1 pint ripe juicy fresh strawberries Wash strawberries well, discarding any that are bruised or not red-ripe. Keep refrigerated until ready to use. Hot Fudge Sauce 1 (12-ounce) package semisweet chocolate morsels 1 cup half and half 1 tablespoon butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until chocolate melts and sauce is smooth, stirring often. Serve warm. Dip strawberries using stems into sauce and serve to each other. Have a great Valentine’s Day Dinner, and think of your Auntie Dee as the evening progresses, but not for to long my dears, I really don’t want to interfere with the evenings outcome. You may contact auntiedeej@hotmail.com.
me
at
Philip Gordon, Rikki Gee, Brandi Cotogno Lopez and Christopher Woods in Broadway on Demand
enough to provide some continuity, but the songs stand on their own, especially when done this well. With her gorgeous, pitch perfect voice, it’s always a pleasure to hear Brandi Cotogno Lopez, a natural actress with a physiognomy seemingly inspired by Modigliani. Hers is a range that can go with ease from the limpid Till There was You (The Music Man) to the racier All That Jazz (Chicago). Philip Gordon is as cute and charming with his clothes on as he was with them off in Naked Boys Singing; he brought a gentle strength to Sweeney Todd’s Not While I’m Around, one of the audience’s choices the night I saw the show. Last seen as a smoldering Rochester in NOCCA’s Jane Eyre, Christopher Woods has a voice that’s perfect for these classic Broadway songs and he uses it to fine effect for I’ve Never Been in Love Before (Guys and Dolls, the movie) among others. In September, he’ll be moving to Manhattan to pursue a degree in theater at Marymount College; NOLA’s loss is NYC’s gain. Last but not least, Rikki Gee is a fine comic actress whose flubbing of the lyrics in No Time At All (Pippin) is excusable when one considers that the entire production was put together in less than two weeks. She more than made up for it, however, with a blistering Everything’s Coming Up Roses (Gypsy), unquestionably the dramatic high point of the show. Marshall Harris’ black, grey and silver art deco skyline scenic design transformed the small stage into an elegant setting. Likewise, Lindsey Price’s choreography was simple yet effective. Two suggestions: (1) Ladies, a little less eye shadow. You’re both beautiful enough so that, in such a small space, so much make-up is unnecessary. The only person who might need a little, or even a lot of, extra cosmetic help is the special guest star for the fabulous finale. (2) Do include a listing of the songs and the shows they’re from; it’s a bit of a challenge to remember so many wonderful moments. With or without a menu, however, it’s pretty easy to remember the dinner served by Ginger Luke. A green bean and artichoke casserole is a delicious new addition to the offerings. A peach glaze made
the Brisket Luke even more scrumptious than ever. And the chocolate cake with hot fudge topping? Can we say Y-U-M-M-Y!!! Which, in fact, pretty much sums up Broadway on Demand.
Orpheus in the Underworld at Roussel Performance Hall, Loyola University
J
acques Offenbach’s opera Orpheus in the Underworld may be best known for giving us the cancan, but it is also a scathing satire of things social, political and artistic circa 1858. Whatever serious undertones it may have once had, however, are lost on today’s audiences allowing us to simply enjoy its loony tale of gods and mortals partying, fighting, and falling in and out of love. Using a witty, although uncredited translation interspersed with a few local references, Loyola Opera Theatre recently presented this musical bonbon in a jubilant production. Against Alan Rusnak’s unfussy scenery, David Morelock’s canny direction brought out the work’s sometimes silly humor while never dumbing it down. He elicited appropriately stylized acting from his young cast that well-fit this Gallic cousin to Gilbert and Sullivan shows. David Bloom and Jayme YarbroHogan portrayed Orpheus and Eurydice who here, unlike most versions of their tale, can’t stand each other. Yarbro-Hogan displayed a lovely voice and fine diction though, in a role that calls for an authentic diva, seemed more to be playing at it than the actual thing. As the violin instructor with the roving eye, Bloom proved to be a good comic actor though his slightly rough voice could’ve used a little more support. Playing the chief god confronted by revolting lesser ones, Brian Sanford sang the role of Jupiter well and his mugging fit suitably within the bounds of this production’s tongue-in-cheekiness; a more authoritarian interpretation, however, might have resulted in more genuine laughs. Still, his and Yarbro-Hogan’s second act Fly Duet was crazy fun. Among the featured gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus, Mary Penick Akin (Venus), Maria Elena Altany (Cupid),
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[continued on Main-24]
Specializing in Historic Properties Full-time Licensed Realtor for 12 years French Quarter Property Owner To Buy, Sell, or Lease, call Mary Lind! Phone 504.948.3011 or 504.581.2020
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trodding the boards ...from M-22
and is sure to receive other such award recognition later this year, he can subRachel Wilson (Diana) and Jennifer merge himself in a character of another Mitchell (Minerva and perhaps a future time and place to devastating effect. Jessye Norman) gave spot-on perforHaving recently seen Goin’ to Jackmances, both vocally and dramatically, son at Le Chat Noir, a one man show he that made one sit up and take notice. As wrote as well as starred in, however, Wax Mercury, Daniel DeShazo earned extra may want to consider sticking to acting. points for singing, and singing well, on Goin’ to Jackson is set in the East roller skates. Louisiana State Hospital in Jackson, LA. A doctor, seemingly in charge of the place, tells us we’re going to be seeing the Louisiana State Mental Health Poster Person & Spokesmodel Contest in which four residents of the hospital will compete. The doctor is kinda goopie and what with references to W i l l i a m Jefferson, David Vitter, B r i t n e y Spears and even Paula Abdul all filtered through a broadly comic lens, we’re not sure what to expect. One by one the “contestants” come on and introduce Orpheus in the Underworld themselves in extended Portraying Eurydice’s S & M inclined monologs. There’s an old geezer cut from jailer in Hades, not something you’d ex- the George Burns mold, a young gay man, pect to find at Loyola, Michael Davidson a young blind man and an older black lady pulled off the tough role with panache. with a bladder condition. Orpheus’ violin students (Lauren Berman, With exquisite chameleon-like skill Nehy Högg, Sarah Teague, Elizabeth Wax embodies each of these people, but Bogner and Wilson) amused with their to what end? These are characters that squeaky voices. are not that interesting or cliches or both. Laura Zambrano did a very good job We get one bad or old joke after another, of choreographing, especially the iconic sometimes the same one twice. cancan, and her dancers (Kelly Amstutz, Cleontyne, the black lady, offers gags about Megan Adams, Colleen Murphy, Mary menopause that Phyllis Diller might’ve Esther Tucker) were excellent. gotten yucks with 40 years ago but now That Music Director Carol Rausch got simply feel tired. And just when you think such an overall impressive level of Wax has managed to include every consongsmanship from her relatively youth- ceivable minority in this mishigas, the ful cast is not surprising given her consis- blind guy turns out to be Jewish for no tently fine vocal work. Conducting an or- good reason except so that it can serve as chestra of 30 made up of Loyola students a punch line to another lame joke. and faculty members, Rausch drew forth Though Jackson includes a few worgenerally fine playing that became crisper thy insights, there’s shameless tugging as the performance progressed. at the heartstrings, songs that go on too By presenting a too rarely seen opera long, and while Wax’s parody of certain in a fully entertaining production, Loyola’s Louisiana institutions and archetypes is opera program did just what such a uni- done lovingly, his humor seems to be versity program should be doing. playing to the lowest common denominator, e.g. the blind guy says of a former date Goin’ to Jackson “Her acne spelt out ‘fart’ in Braille.” Certainly, one joke involving Jackie at Le Chat Noir O., though preposterous, was at least hat Jamie Wax is a fine actor is beyond doubt. As he demon funny, and I didn’t see the punch line strated in, well, Doubt, a per- coming for a terribly punny one whose formance that was honored with an Ambie payoff was “Tony Orlando & Dawn”; yet, Award nomination for Best Actor in a Play among his other offerings, shouldn’t any
T
on the boards THE BACHELOR IN NEW ORLEANS. 948.4167 — A fun and kicky adaptation of Robert Kinney’s worldly, eccentric WWII gentlemen’s guide to getting the most out of the Vieux Carre, updated to post-Katrina New Orleans. Performed by Michael Martin. 7pm Wednesdays, Pirate’s Alley Cafe, 622 Pirate’s Alley, $8 plus one drink minimum/7pm Sundays, The Tarantula Arms, 209 Decatur St., one drink minimum. BROADWAY ON DEMAND. Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse, 1540 Lindberg Drive, Slidell, 985.781.6565 — Delightful musical review of Broadway tunes; in Act Two the audience chooses what they want to hear. Jonne Dendinger directs Brandi Cotogno Lopez, Christo-
joke involving Murder, She Wrote have been retired a decade ago? In its final moments, Goin’ to Jackson has a twist that tidily explains the absurdity that came before but it doesn’t really cut it. It’s almost as if Wax is apologizing for, or at the least explaining away, the shortcomings of the preceding two hours. Based on when the songs were copyrighted (1991), it seems that Wax wrote Jackson when he was in high school or college judging by his youthful appearance. Perhaps it’s time he considered retiring it and writing something new for himself. In fact, I take back my comment that he should consider sticking to acting. Rather, for his next outing, I hope he writes something commensurate with his oversize acting talents.
Loretta Lynn at IP Casino Resort & Spa
D
o want to let you know that Loretta Lynn will be appearing at the IP Casino Resort & Spa in Biloxi on Friday, February 15. As I wrote after seeing her three years ago, “Combining one of the greatest voices of our time with flawless interpretative skills, throughout each number Lynn makes you feel like she’s talking right to you.” Though I understand the concert is sold out, it may be worth a trip over to Biloxi to see if any last minute cancellations might allow you entrance to savor this living legend. Unlike her last appearance near here in Gulfport where it felt like she was playing in a barn, the IP’s new 850 seat theater should allow for a more intimate entertainment experience. “We have a new sound and lighting system which allows us to mount very sophisticated shows,” says entertainment manager Tessa Rogers. In addition to Lynn, this newly remodeled space is featuring some of the nation’s top performers including Miranda Lambert, Mickey Gilley, Anthony Cools, Keith Sweat, Kelly Pickler and many more. IP recently produced a sold-out original holiday show featuring Eugene Eash and starring former American Idol Kimberly Caldwell. Tickets are now on sale for country star Kelly Pickler and may be ordered on line at IP’s website www.ipbiloxi.com. For additional information call 1.800.WIN AT IP.
pher Woods, Philip Gordon and Rikki Gee. Tickets $40 (includes delicious all-youcan-eat dinner). 6:30pm Friday-Saturday. Through Feb. 16. BRYAN BATT. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812 — New Orleans’ own Broadway baby and TV star (Mad Men) sings show tunes from the classic American songbook. Tickets $32 (includes a $5 drink credit). 8pm Friday-Saturday, February 22 and 23. CLASS CLOWNS. Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans, WTIX Building, 2nd floor, 4539 N. I-10 Service Road, Metairie, 456.4111 — A weekly improv show featuring René Piazza, Chelle Ambrose, Rebecca Taliancich, Viki Lovelace, Brian Collins, Kevin Songy and Danny Marin. Tickets $10. 10:30pm Saturday. THE CLEAN HOUSE. Southern Rep Theatre, The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 3rd floor, 522.6545 — Regional premiere of Sarah Ruhl’s Pulitzer-nominated comedy about fighting the dirt in your life, finding your true love at any age and the quest for the perfect joke. Aimée Hayes directs Leslie Castay, Bob Edes, Jr., Maria Helan, Tari Hohn Lagasse and Peggy Walton-Walker. Tickets $29. 8pm Thursday-Saturday, 3pm Sunday. February 20-March 16. FLANAGAN’S WAKE. Westwego Performing Arts Theatre, 177 Sala Ave., Westwego, 885.2000 — JPAS presents an audience interactive show set in the fictional village of Grapplin, County Sligo, Ireland. Mark Czoske directs Kerry Cahill, Jerry Lee Leighton, Krista Schafer, Bob Scully, Michael Sullivan and others. Tickets $26, $23 seniors, $19 students, $12 children 12-under. 7:30pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. February 22-March 9. A FLEA IN HER EAR. Rivertown Repertory Theatre, 325 Minor St., Kenner, 468.7221 — Feydeau’s classic farce in which a wife’s test of her husband’s fidelity sets off a string of madcap mixups. Gary Rucker directs Mark Burton, Butch Caire, Angie Joachim, Keith Launey, Randy Maggiore, Liz Mills, Lisa Picone, Joe Seibert and this year’s Ambie Award nominees Kyle Daigrepont, Morrey McElroy & P.J. McKinnie. Tickets $25, $22 seniors (55 and up)/students, $12 children (6-12). Messina’s optional pre-performance buffet is available for $20. 8pm ThursdaySaturday, 2:30pm Sunday. February 22March 9. GEM OF THE OCEAN. Dillard University, Samuel DuBois Cook Theatre, 2601 Gentilly Blvd., 816-4857 — The first installment of August Wilson’s “Pittsburgh Cycle.” Directed by Ray Vrazel. Tickets $12, $7 students/seniors, $5 Dillard students. 8pm Friday-Saturday, 3pm Sunday. Through Feb. 24. THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL. Westwego Performing Arts Theatre, 177 Sala Ave., Westwego, 885.2000 — Rip-roaring musical celebrating the trailer trash in all of us. Sean Patterson directs Richard Arnold, Carrie Black, Ford Jones Dieth, Jr., Morla Gorrondona, Meredith Long, Jessie Terrebonne and Cammie West. Tickets $26, $23 seniors, $19 students, $12 children 12-under. 7:30pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. Through Mar. 9. I TAKE YOUR HAND IN MINE. Le
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[continued on Main-25]
7 DAYS OF PARADISE. NOCCA, 2800 Chartres St., 940.2900 — A new, multidisciplinary, modern opera based on New Orleans artist Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812/453.6581 — Ro- Jeffrey Cook’s experiences in the seven days after Katrina. Written mantic drama by Carol Rocamora tracing the passionate and directed by Harold Sylvester with music by Jay Weigel. Starring relationship between the great Russian playwright Anton Cook and Leah Chase. Tickets $20, $18 students/seniors. 8pm Chekhov and actress Olga Knipper, the love of his life. Friday-Saturday. February 15 and 16. Natasha Ramer directs Scott Jefferson and Lyla Hay Owen. SIX CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF AN AUTHOR. Lupin TheTickets $26 (includes $5 bar credit). 8pm Friday-Saturday. ater, Tulane University, 16 Newcomb Place, 865.5105 — Luigi February 15 & 16. KATRINA’S PATH. The Lab Theatre, the Performing Arts Center, UNO Lakefront, 280.7469 — Encore performance of Rob Florence’s outstanding retelling of Katrina survivors’ stories. Directed by David Hoover. 2:30pm Sunday, February 24. LOVE LETTERS. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581.5812 — A.R. Gurney’s epistolary comedy/drama portrays the long-distance, generation-spanning romance between two WASPs. Carl Walker directs Nell Nolan and Steve Kelley. Tickets $26 (includes $5 bar credit). 8pm Wednesday & Thursday, February 13 & 14. MY NAME IS CHAINSAW. The Lab Theatre, the Performing Arts Center, UNO Lakefront, 280.7469 — Encore performance of Jared Gore’s one-act play. 7:30pm Sunday, February 24. THE NEW ORLEANS BINGO! SHOW. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581-5812 — Weimar cabaret filtered through a New Orleans sensibility. Like nothing else around! Tickets $20. 8pm Friday-Saturday, February 29 and March 1. 9 PARTS OF DESIRE. Lower Depths Theatre, Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Ave., 865.2074 — Heather Raffo’s portrait of a cross-section of Iraqi women’s lives. Directed by Laura Hope. Tickets $12, $8 students, children & senior citizens. 8pm Thursday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. February 22March 1. PRIVATE PROPERTY. Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans, WTIX Building, 2nd floor, 4539 N. I-10 Service Road, Metairie, 456.4111 — Three one act plays written and directed by René J. F. Piazza. Featuring Danny Marin, John Breerwood, Josh Stover, Nick Jacketti and Robert Facio. Tickets $18, $16 students/seniors. 7:30pm Friday-Saturday, 2:30pm Sunday. Through Feb. 24.
on the boards ...from Main-24
Pirandello’s classic about six fictional characters who arrive at a rehearsal of a play and proceed to convince the director to allow them to perform their true drama for him. Buzz Podewell directs Allison Blackwell, Andrew Farrier, Sarah Faust, Jordana Fraider, Richard Mayer, Sam [continued on Main-27]
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Fleur de Tease
Superman, Captain David Boyd
Mr. Louisiana Leather Michael Albracht
Lord Consort XXIV Danny Starns
Mardi Gras Indians Spawn, Gary Vandeventer
Conner & Taryn
Lord King XXIV Danny Alford Lord Consort & King XXIV Danny Starnes & Danny Alford
Dream Catcher Mickey Gil & Dream Weaver Ted Jeansonne
King Satyricon VI Scott Loyed Batman, Lord King XXV Michael Ducote Ghost Rider, Ernie O’Steen Emcee Bianca Del Rio
Mardi Gras Becky Allen
Queen Satyricon VI Carl Mack
Aquaman, Emcee George Hester
Robin, Lord Consort XXV Doug Minich
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photos: Brad Benedict & John Desselle
Sleeping Pills, Don Paul
Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXV: Salute to Superheroes, Alario Center ~ New Orleans
Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque VI: Fantastic Dreams, The Sugar Mill ~ New Orleans
Returning King & Queen Satyricon V Tony Leggio & Hoyle Byrd
spotlight by Brad Benedict E-mail: bradhottails@hotmail.com
Lords of Leather Celebrate 25 Years With Superheroes
F
irst of all, I have to apologize. I started photographing the Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXV but all of a sudden I noticed there was no button for the flash attachment. It fell off after my picture of Ghost Rider, and it took a while to make contact with my fellow photographer John Desselle to pick up where I left off. He made it in time to photograph Spawn and the new royalty. Thank goodness, he brought his camera with him, and I’m off as soon as I finish this to buy not one but two new cameras or at least one while my main one is being repaired. At any rate, let me tell you about this final ball of the 2008 season. The theme was Salute to Superheroes, and it was held at the Alario Center on Sunday, February 3, 2008. Pat O’Rourke opened the ball shortly after 8pm until emcee George Hester made his appearance as Aquaman, the first major costume. The main opening was the introduction of the Lords of Leather Crest and singing of the Star Spangle Banner and display of the different flags, followed by Mr. Louisiana Leather 2008 Michael Albracht reading the Lords of Leather Proclamation. Then, it was time to welcome back the magnificent costumes of the returning royalty, Lord King XXIV Danny Alford as the Phantom of the Opera along with his Lord Consort XXIV Danny Starns. Both costumes were absolutely two of the best I’ve seen in quite some time, and they set the stage for what was to follow. It was good to see both Dannys in such beautiful costumes. The Lords of Leather Dancers did quite a few routines, and I have to say that one of those dancers had the guys in the audience at attention all evening, if you get my drift. I hadn’t observed a beauty like that since Bal Masque XVII. This first dance routine was followed by the introduction of Aquaman, and George Hester then took over the emcee duties. Captain David Boyd was introduced, and he made a fine Superman. Afterwards, I found it quite nice to see a special tribute given to my friend Pat O’Rourke, who was led down the runway and off the stage by Boyd and Albracht. He has been our LOL ball emcee many times as well as so many other New Orleans balls, and this was a well-deserved tribute for an outstanding member of the community. Things then headed back to the major costume categories with Ernie O’Steen coming out as an outstanding Ghost Rider. The motorcycle wasn’t used nor did Ernie give a president’s address or welcome at the beginning because of last-minute changes. The only thing I can say about the Lords of Leather activities and accomplishments after talking with several members is that Ernie is perhaps the best president in the history of this organization. He was on top of everything and carried out his duties in an excellent manner. Whoever replaces him in the upcoming election will have some big boots to fill. Congratulations to this longtime leather stud on his contributions to this group. With my camera now broken, I’ll have to just mention the costumes prior to the time when I managed to find my little buddy to finish out the program schedule. Marshall Fisher was Conan the Barbarian, George Wong was Spiderman, Tim Lott was X-Men/Archangel, and Mike Andrews was the Lone Ranger along with some fabulous Cowpoke Dancers. Tributes came at this time with the introductions of all the former royalty members in the audience for this 25th ball production. Only about eight were present to walk down the runway. After these introductions, Alan Kelly came out as Robin Hood, along with those sexy dancers again. Solataire was Catwoman, and the best and most elaborate costume of the night was Spawn, excellently done by Gary Vandeventer. With all these major costumes completed, it was time to introduce the new Lord King XXV Michael Ducote and Lord Consort XXV Doug Minich. It was a nicely done presentation with both participants portraying superheroes Batman and Robin to the pleasure of the audience. After the toasts and meeting of the former royalty, it was time for them to lead the
Grand March followed by Closing Ceremonies and Open Court. Overall, this was a good ball, but I really was impressed by the creativity displayed with Spawn. Let’s hope that the next time you read about Gary he will be accepting a winning nod in the Bourbon Street Awards presentation. Out of all the balls I’ve attended this year in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette, his costume was the best. A lot of work went into it, but the end result was one dynamic and creative display of monumental proportions. Trust me - they don’t get any better than this one.
on the boards ...from Main-25 Repshas and others. Tickets $12, $9 Tulane faculty/staff, $7.50 students/seniors. 8pm Tuesday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. February 26-March 2. A SOLDIER’S PLAY. Anthony Bean Community Theater, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave., 862.7529 — Charles Fuller’s Pulitzer Prizewinning drama about an black sergeant’s murder in a Louisiana
Army camp in 1944. Wilbert L. Williams directs Anthony Bean, Harold Evans, Darryl Lutcher, Nick Thompson, T.J. Toups and others. Tickets $18, $16 students & seniors. 8pm Friday-Saturday, 3pm Sunday (except 8pm Sunday, March 2). Through March 9. WHERE THE GIRLS WERE. Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré, 616 St. Peter St., 522.2081 — 20th anniversary production of the hit musical showcasing girl groups of the 1960s. Carl Walker directs Tracey Collins, Idella Johnson, Chase Kamata, Leslie Limberg, Danielle Mathis and Angela Papale. Tickets $32, $28 students. 8pm Thursday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday. February 22-March 16.
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ambush
paparazzi
Krewe of Barkus Parade
Le Roundup bartender Carol Emerald City’s Eric joins Oz’s Allen & Gawain
Good Friends bartenders Frank, Luke & Jeremy
Double Play’s Stephen, Paul & Doc
Queen of Barkus
Carnival Highlights ~ New Orleans
Hot Eric poses with Don & Rusty at Oz The Kings of Satyricon: IV Todd, VI Scott & V Tony, King VI’s Party at the Balcony Bar
Bartender Ashlee snags one at The Corner Pocket
Krewe of Barkus
Cy Whitney & Oz bar baron Johnny Chisholm The Queens of Satyricon: Becky, Stephen, Joe, Hoyle & VI Carl, King VI’s Party at the Balcony Bar
Taz & Ben in Corner Pocket’s Mardi Gras Wet Jockey Shorts Contest
Raiders of the Lost Bark
Queen & King Satyricon VI, Carl & Scott flank captain Mickey Gil, King VI’s Party at the Balcony Bar
Crowds catch Barkus at Lafitte’s
NO/AIDS Task Force’s CAN Project out in full force for Carnival
Men of Manwatch’s Obie on the bar at Oz
Corner Pocket’s Lisa Beaumann wets down Criss in the MG Wet Jockey Shorts Contest
Houston’s Krewe of Olympus at Good Friends for Mardi Gras
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acadiana
Clint from Kentucky having a mimosa on the parade route
Barbara & Lance celebrating his birthday at Sound Factory
Macky bartending on Back Side
Travis partying at Sound Factory
John & Troy relaxing at Sound Factory
James & Erin looking as cute as ever at Sound Factory
Garland getting wild at Back Side
Chris bartending at Back Side
Joey enjoying a night out at Back Side
Jeremy enjoying a beer at Sound Factory
Philipe bartending at Back Side
Amy at Back Side for Mardi Gras Patrick & Clint Mardi Gras morning at Back Side
Jason celebrating Mardi Gras at Back Side Steven ready for beads at Back Side
Brodie & Troy cutting up on Mardi Gras at Back Side
Chelsea on the parade route
Stephanie looking festive on the parade route
Chelsea ready for Mardi Gras at Back Side
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Mardi Gras in Downtown Lafayette, Louisiana
Jon at Back Side for Mardi Gras breakfast
photos: Patrick Clinton
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allons acadiana by Patrick Clinton Email: BlondAtULL@aol.com
W
ith Mardi Gras over, the 2008 Carnival Season is officially at an end, but even though it is Lent, the fun does not have to end. People will still be partying just as hard as ever in Downtown Lafayette. And don’t forget, it won’ t be long before Easter and Spring Break. The Sound Factory and Back Side are always a wonderful place for a great time. And don’t forget that they are open seven days a week to make sure you have a place to party every night of the week. And their weekly lineup leaves nothing to be desired. Tuesdays are Karaoke Night at Sound Factory, hosted by the ever popular Chad Evans. Chad has as much personality as he does talent. His charisma really breathes new life into the karaoke experience. And the rest of the week at Sound
Factory and Back Side is just as entertaining. Between karaoke on Tuesday nights and Show Night on Sundays, they pack each night 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, the Back Side, where you can take a break from the loud music and socialize with your friends, or make some new ones. 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. Until next time, have fun and be safe. I’ll see you around town.
hot tails of red stick by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com
S
panish Town on the Saturday before Fat Tuesday is a remarkable place to be. You get to see all your old friends from all over the country, and you can hang out with all your close local ones. It’s a time of revelry, of beautiful costumes, and visits from uglyas-home-made-sin butt-wipes. It’s the good and the bad, and the bad leave the mess, and the good spends a lot of time cleaning up after them. I’ve been to a lot of Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, and the celebration we have here in Spanish Town is different. It is difficult to explain, but I think it has to do with the element of first-timers and no-gooders who pick this one day to come out of their small town or country hideouts and trash the city. The one thing I did notice this year, and I am happy to report this, is that there were lots of police cars patrolling before and after the event. This is the major improvement. The main disadvantage of our annual parade is the narrow Spanish Town Road and all the side streets. And the parade is not the magnificent structures you see parading through New Orleans and Metairie and surrounding towns. They are glorified truck floats, and not nearly as good as those in the Crescent City. Some people consider these excellent additions to the spirit of the season, but what started out to be a simple parade through a small historic neighborhood is now a monstrosity that can hardly find maneuvering room down these old and narrow streets. Don’t get me wrong. Everyone manages to have lots of fun, but there are so many, mainly the non-resident, I-don’tgive-a-damn variety that just come in, take over, and taint an otherwise wonderful celebration. I think it’s the drunks who
don’t have sense enough to stop before it’s past the point of being civilized, and they utilize any bush, or car, or fence to release themselves of their bloated bladders, or those who are smartass thieves who come into the yards of residents and steal their decorations. And speaking of decorations, this year’s award for Best Home Decorative Display goes to Terry Adams, my favorite queen from years past. With pink as the theme, his home was by far the best, but then this is one guy who always tries to do his best no matter what that might entail. Congratulations, Terry. Your home looked fabulous - and so are you. Things happening before the parade and prior to its end around 2pm are the positive parts. It’s the lingering element and those trying to clear out of town all at one time that really messes things up. Oh, well, such is the beauty of a happy neighborhood welcoming strangers to their area. This year the theme was Flambeaux Phil, since it fell on February 2nd, and the groundhog got the theme. I can assure you that there were plenty of shadows cast on this beautiful Saturday. It was cool at first but then the coats came off, and people relished in the warmth of the day. Spanish Town usually has unusual floats, mostly on the sarcastic side, poking fun at politicians. It was different this year, but that didn’t mean that Britney wasn’t lambasted. My old buddy from my newspaper days was on the back of the main Britney float, and you never ever saw such a sloppy, fat, gawd-awful 50-year-old specimen in your life. Sorry, Chris, but I just had to say that. What would I give you gradewise? How about an A plus. It’s just that image of Britney at fifty that will always remain in my memory. Throw those beads,
baby. And let the good times keep rolling. I always enjoy visiting with everyone at the corner of 7th and Spanish Town Road. This is the location of the Capitol Grocery and the spot where Splash erects a tent and serves such excellent drinks. This is the main meeting place of good friends, and this year was no exception. I think my best memory of this 2008 parade day was the return of Mikey, once a bartender at Splash, then an LSU graduate who went on to a nice job in Shreveport. Well, now he’s in Hattiesburg, has a new boyfriend, and snuggled me better than any other person other than Little Corey. You can tell when someone is proud to see you. I felt that with Mikey, and I can assure you it was a mutual body-rubbing reunion. You need to come to town more often, sweetie. I’ve missed your smiling face and excellent personality when visiting Splash. You were one of the bright spots in my visits there. Little Corey and I often laugh that this is our annual meeting, but it actually isn’t. We just act crazier on this particular day. I don’t know how many of you noticed the article a couple of months ago in the local newspaper. There was an article about him - an avid LSU fan who has his work cubicle decorated in all things LSU. It was nice to see his smiling face looking back at me, and it is especially nice to see that in person. He is one-of-kind - caring, giving, loving. That spells out to be a wonderful and beautiful human being. Nicole Foxx was her usual beautiful self but this time as a boy. Most of the time, I’ve only seen this beauty parading around in high heels, doing magnificent performances on stage, and capturing beauty and popularity titles. However, his life takes on something that most guys don’t have. It’s called talent. Keep it up, sweetie. Now I have to tell you too that Jason was having a great time. When I saw him spreading his legs across two truck beds, I thought he was about to do the splits. I should have known from past personal experience that he could do this, but I dare not tell how I know this to be a fact. Now I have to get on to Lance. This one is just one of my all-time favorite human beings. I’m not sure if it’s the eyes, the lips, the build, the bubble butt, or the hefty package that turns me on, or maybe it is all of them. My goodness! I was afraid those buttons on his jeans were going to pop open. This is just one magnificent piece of humanity, and he makes my heart go pitter-patter every time I’m near him, and my tongue gets hard at the same time. I keep a picture on my work table so you know he commands an impressive place in my home. Of course, I have others, but his stands out - and does it ever! - if you know what I mean. There were lots of Apollo friends out. Lady Rhonda was one of the first I saw along with John and Stephen. This is another of those wonderful examples of goodness. I could go on and on about Ron, but it might embarrass him, so I’ll hold off until a later date. By the way, Mr. Sallinger, I forgot to ask you what you had on under that kilt. Inquiring minds need to know these things. With age comes a lasting beauty, and you are one great example of superb human preservation. My Lafayette pals were out in force. Kenny and Garland always manage to make this parade, and they brought along several friends. In days past, when the parades were a little more gay-oriented,
the Lafayette krewes as well as the local bar owners would enter decorated trucks or convertibles in the parade. I recall those days. However, I recall the day when the only parade was a convertible loaded down with gay guys screaming out Mardi Gras wishes and tossing beads to a surprised neighborhood. Yes, Spanish Town Parade was at one time small, heavy with the gay influence, and now look at what has happened. Maybe the gay community should come together and do a gay St. Joseph’s Day parade in Spanish Town. After all, we have a huge St. Patrick’s Day parade over on Perkins. Why not a gayonly parade! Think about it. Convertibles only. Italian beads only. Gay guys, lesbian friends, female impersonators. Or just pick a day and use only rainbow colors for the theme. Do it when it is hot, and show off some beautiful chests. Really! Did you think I would even think of anything else? Trace made his way over to my place to spend the afternoon. He had been doing his thing at the Phoenix the night before, and I guess I should have been there to witness this. However, I’m just not as young as I used to be, and my leather is in storage. At any rate, Trace is now how can I say this? - an orange head! I think that’s the color. It looks great on him, but it was a shock. What are you going to do for an encore, sweetie? Brandon and Robert went out of their way decorating their home for this holiday. In fact, it was some of their decorations that I witnessed being thrown in a couple of cars making their way out of Spanish Town. I wish I’d had a notepad handy. I would have copied the license plate numbers and published them, contacted them, and shamed them. I’m sure these straight assholes would be horrified to be published in a gay newspaper or receiving a personal call. Or maybe that little stud lifting it for his girlfriend is just another of those “straight want-a-be types” who sneak out to Hound Dogs, George’s, or Splash when their girlfriends aren’t putting out. It’s alright as long as they don’t have to do anything but lay back and enjoy the experience. It was another annual day of meeting old friends when I ran into Orhan. This is someone from my past who has always been just one very nice young man. Even when he was in high school, I didn’t see a gay connection. He hid it well, but now that he is out, there isn’t much to hide. He is just a wonderful young man with a beautiful personality. By the way, Orhan, where is your brother? He came by my home several years ago, but I haven’t seen him since. Tell him I said hello. Michael and Mark are entertaining a couple of friends from New York. Clark and his significant other not only got to see the Spanish Town festivities, but they are also planning to take in the Lords of Leather bal masque. I told Michael, I’d loan that other New York half some leather, but I’d have to help him fit into it. I thought that was a nice gesture on my part, don’t you? Another Apollo stud who I really think is a very gracious and nice human being is King Jimmy of the Jones dynasty. I fell in love with this one when I photographed him hanging out in front of the Ambush balcony several years ago. Don’t worry sweetie, it is in my private collection and not to be shared with anyone. I have a wonderful collection of past pictures and [continued on Expose-8]
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red stick paparazzi
Dwayne & Little Corey in annual pic
Ex-Apollo king & nursery baron Ken
Ex-King Apollo stud Jimmy
Dan & Jimmy Michael & real estate baron Richard Fabulous Lance under the Splash tent
Mikey & his new stud Orhan the magnificent
Splash bar barons Jeff & Corey George’s Michael enjoying the spirits
Robert & Brandon showing pink
Kenny & the Lafayette gang
Just a sweetheart in paradise Stephen, Ty & friend
Chris, Heather, Jason
Mark, Michael & the N.Y. connection
Tina enjoying a little “splash”
Big Lance pours a big one
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Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana
photos: Brad Benedict
King John (What’s under the kilt?) Sallinger
Phil & John Wayne
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videos of Mardi Gras, but they are all stored away. One of these days when I catch up with my busy work schedule, I’ll take these videos out and see who was doing what to whom, or vice versa. As far as this exKing Apollo, Jimmy is probably one of the best loved, most respected, and definitely the most sexual - oops - sexy of all. That’s my opinion, and I’m usually correct in my observations. It was great seeing you, my friend. Come join me in a glass of wine sometimes. Someone else who I love to be around is my nursery buddy Ken. I buy most of my gardening supplies at his place of business. That would be Louisiana Nursery on Coursey Boulevard. He always seems to have everything I need or want. Goodness! That sounds erotic, but it’s true. If he doesn’t have it, I ask that he find out about its availability for me. He follows through quite well. Ken is one of those Apollo studs who always comes up with wonderful and beautiful costumes. That too has impressed me about Jimmy. I don’t know if its personal talents or donated talents, but the end results are great. Real estate baron Richard was out enjoying things with his other half Michael. Richard is another one who looks great in leather. Well, let’s face it. Richard looks great with or without the clothes. He’s just a beautiful guy with a great personality, and it rubs off on everyone he is around. He and Michael make a great couple, and I’m happy to have them among my friends. Richard is going to make a fantastic King Apollo someday. I didn’t get to spend much time with everyone. I tried to get my photography done early so I could enjoy things, but after one of Little Corey’s excellent fruit cocktails, I was relaxed and ready to photograph anything that came my way. In fact, I was so relaxed that I decided to relax on my front porch for a spell while I nourished another one I mixed at home. Michael from George’s was getting into the spirit of things when I ran into him. He spilled his drink on his pants and was South Padre Island, Texas
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concerned that it might show up in the picture, but I took care of the situation and satisfied him with the shots I did of him. This is another cutie with a cute body and cute points all over. He is really one of those guys who is cute, handsome, beautiful, or just about any other positive descriptive phrase you might choose to use. His parents blessed him with some great genes. Ditto for Luther, who was no where to be seen, but in my thoughts. Something else I need to mention here is the new Quentin. I ran into him when I delivered Ambush this week, and with that tight T-shirt, I noted a more trim figure lurking beneath. It was apparent at the parade area too. I need to check this out and get back to you on his technique. I love to report on positive things especially after I’ve checked them out. I have to say that Jeff and Cory go out of their way each year to add a positive sparkle to the Spanish Town festivities. It is one of the nicest gatherings of friends you will find in the entire downtown area. Their entertainment addition to this part of Spanish Town is really great, but it never stops here. It continues each time they open their doors at their entertainment emporium over on Highland Road. It just happens to be one of the finest in the entire South. I have to say here that a lot of the background work in making this such a nice place to be is in the form of a very likeable and nice youngster named David. Whether it’s sweeping the floors or putting down the floors or installing equipment improvements, he is the man with the job of doing just that. I’d have to say that this is one guy who stays in the background without begging for attention, but I’m here to tell you that he is a great asset to Splash, and I want everyone to know about him. You are really great, David. I admire you for your work ethic and your caring ways. Those hugs are nice too unlike others who bear the same name and don’t bother to even speak to you. In walking around the neighborhood this morning, I felt a little sick at the scene. Of course New Orleans residents know what I mean. People in Spanish Town were trying to clean up the mess left on their streets and in their yards, but with the wind blowing, it was almost a losing proposition. The litter was picked up only to have more come flying into the yards. Like one of those old western, black and white, movies, instead of tumbleweeds coming at you down the street, there were paper bags, empty cups, and all sorts of debris flying through the air on the empty streets. Those parking lots where so many campouts took place were also littered, but those people were back in their cozy homes. They had a great time. They just left their filth for others to clean up.
The Boys from Birmingham Jason & Day celebrating Mardi Gras at B-Bob’s
B-Bob’s fun loving staff
Becky & the Oriental Goddess Regine Phillips at B-Bob’s Waiting on the floor show at B-Bob’s
Bartenders Jerry & Steven goofing off during Mardi Gras at B-Bob’s Craig & Richard at B-Bob’s
DJ Chromatic, Brenda, Becky & Wendy hanging out at B-Bob’s
mobile
Celebratin’ Mardi Gras
paparazzi
Spanish Town has undergone another year of madness, and it’s still here. It will take a while for everything to return to normal and an even longer time for grass to re-appear in the yards and street rightof-ways where people trampled it down into the wet soil. It will recover, just as all the drunks will recover from their aching heads. That’s how it was and is in Spanish Town. Y’all come back again and see us sometimes.
Miss Cie & Wendy showing some Mardi Gras love at B-Bob’s
AJ, Becky & Seven Imon celebrating Becky’s Mardi Gras Birthday after a fabulous show at B-Bob's!
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Mardi Gras on the Bay ~ Mobile, Alabama photos: DJ Chromatic, Leon Weekley
hot tails of red stick ...from EX-4
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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 VISIONS TWIST, 266 Dauphin St., 431.9002, visions-mobile.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., 433.8482
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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 [is708]
circuit/events 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 Oct. 23-26, 2008, Halloween 25: Silver Party, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 28, 2008-Jan. 1, 2009, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 19-24, 2009, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM
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Scott
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432.3786, Jim 344.4664
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galleries New Orleans, LA [504] ARTICHOKE GALLERY, 912 Decatur St., 636.2004, www.ArtichokeGallery.COM FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700
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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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laundries New Orleans, LA [504] RALPH'S QUARTER LAUNDERETTE & DRY CLEANING, 1101 Bourbon St., 522.9274; 1838 Louisiana Ave. , 897-5199 WASHBOARD LAUNDRY, 1000 St. Ann,
.522.2071 WASHING WELL LaunDRYteria since 1949, City Wide Pick-up, Fluff Dry or Finished, 1 Hour Service, 841 Bourbon St., 523.9955 or 525.3983 [is308]
lodging/accommodations Birmingham, AL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Mobile, AL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Ft. Lauderdale, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Ft. Walton Beach, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayPensacola.COM Key West, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayKeyWest.COM Miami/South Beach, FL [305] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GaySouthBeach.COM Orlando, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Pensacola, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayPensacola.COM Atlanta, GA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAtlanta.COM Baton Rouge, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayBatonRouge.BIZ Lafayette, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, AmbushMag.COM Lake Charles, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, AmbushMag.COM New Orleans [504] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/ FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, theburgundy.com, Email us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "half-kitchen", courtyard and halfopen tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. CORNSTALK HOTEL, 915 Royal St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.523.1515, FAX: 504.522.5558, Toll Free: 800.759.6112, CornstalkHotel.COM, E-mail us at Reservations@CornstalkHotel.COM. The Cornstalk Hotel, once a private home, in the heart of the French Quarter, one block from Bourbon, but quieter, now welcomes visitors to enjoy its hospitality and Victorian charm. CREOLE INN, 2471 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.948.3230, FAX: 504.948.4410, CreoleInn.COM, E-mail us at CreoleInn@aol.com. In the Gay/Lesbian Marigny adjacent to French Quarter, Frenchmen Street & Country Club; private baths, garden, wireless Internet, AC, cable TV/VCR, Continental breakfast. Gay operated; mention AMBUSH for 10% discount. INN THE QUARTER, French Quarter, New Orleans, 70116, PHONE: 504.527.5360, Toll Free: 800.570.3085, InnTheQuarter.COM, E-mail us at Info@InnTheQuarter.COM. Over 20 guest rooms, suites and apartments in the French Quarter. All accomnmodations are within a few short blocks of Lafitte’s, Bourbon Pub, Oz, Good Friends, Rawhide and all the other “HOT” spots. Our properties offer private entrances, tropical courtyards, air conditioning, private bathrooms, televisions, and direct dial phones with free local calls. Some have additional features such as balconies, jacuzzi tubs, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, full kitchens, high-speed Internet access and free off-street parking. Absolutely all are clean and safe. Regular rates starting at $79/nt. Special Event rates starting at $119/nt. Weekly and monthly discounts available.
MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/ cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621 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
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: fqmassage@cox.net. License #LA2687 [is508] LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist), National Board Certified 908.2069, License #LA 3355 [is508]
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 Bour-
bon 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
models/escorts New Orleans, LA [504] EXPERIENCED, PROFESSIONAL, DISCREET-35 y.o. model/escort, in/out/hotel appointments. Body rubs available. Travel okay. M/F/Couples welcome. 5'10", 175#, Br/Bl, cute, muscular. Mikie 756.9443 [is408]
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
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GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • Feb. 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-15 of 48
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
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St.
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 OFAPOLLO / 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 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Commu-
nity Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday Worship at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, p a s t o r @ b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , www.bigeasymcc.com 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. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG 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 Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. IN THIS TOGETHER, HIV/AIDS Case Management, 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, cetubby@cox.net, KreweOfArmeinius.ORG 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 MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org 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 KNIGHTS OF ADONIS, 236.4530, Adonis-TLC.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 New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com, cafepress.com/grahamimages
printers New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812
real estate New Orleans, LA [504] CALDWELL BANKER REALTORS, Mark Boline 655.2233, Adrianne Bieller 617.0500 ETHEL KIDD REAL ESTATE, 637 Pere Antoine Alley, Inez Douglas 451.1082, 524.6809 KELLER WILLIAMS REALTORS, 8601 Leak Ave., 524.8530 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
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restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] Buffa's, 1001 Esplanade at Burgundy, 949.0038 Bywater Bar.B.Que,3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 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, MeauxBar.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 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, 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, www.tapelenders.com
self defense New Orleans, LA [504] NEW ORLEANS SELF DEFENSE CENTER,
1025 Bienville, Suite One, 428.6923
spas 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
tanning New Orleans, LA [504] PLANET BEACH, 301 Burgundy, 525.8266
tattoos/piercings New Orleans, LA [504] AART ACCENT TATTOO & PIERCING, 1041 N. Rampart in French Quarter, 581.9812
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] LE PETIT THEATRE DU VIEUX CARE, 616 St. Peter, 522.2081 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
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Texas thr u F lorida thru Florida Contact Rip Naquin 504.522.8049 inf o@amb ushma g.com info@amb o@ambushma ushmag BUSINESS • SUCCESS • LONGEVITY GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • Feb. 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-17 of 48
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One of the colorful personalities outside Good Friends
Big Daddy’s bartender Wayne & Friendly Bar’s Jim
Good Friends' Spencer, Shane, Tyson & Jeremy
Pride’s Steve & JohnPaul’s bar baron John
Rawhide bartenders Kevin & Bob Miss Eloy & Starlight bartender Robbie Rusty, bartender DB, Don & Joseph at Cowpokes
Good Friends’ Luke snags Lafitte’s DJ Mike at Rawhide Javier down for the count at Starlight DJ Johnny Love hails from Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Clover Grill’s Alicia & Wood Enterprises' Gary
Ambush’s Marsha & Alternatives’ Jack
Miss Toebe on her way to work at Starlight
Rawhide’s Eric disciplines Todd with the help of Luke Tom Conners & Bob Boler off to the Lundi Gras Luncheon
Ninth Circle DJ Karbin & bartender Brigette
Oz showgirl Tyra Van Ryan
JohnPaul’s bar baron Paul & bartender Manny
Oz hostess Blanche Debris joins GM Tommy Elias
EXPOSE'-18 of 48 • Feb. 12-25, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM
The Mardi Gras Scene ~ New Orleans
Cafe Lafitte’s bartenders Jeff, Aletha & Matt
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Mardi Gras at the Phoenix Starlight bartender Miss Love
LSGRA Chili Cook-off Winner, Golden Lantern Mardi Gras on Bourbon Street Eva Las Vegas joins Camp Pride at JohnPaul’s
Phoenix bartenders Bud & Kevin
Mardi Gras in front of the Clover Grill
LSGRA Chili Cook-off Winner, Golden Lantern
New Orleans Bears at the Phoenix Zoo Revue’s Rusty LaRoux at Big Daddy’s
Mardi Gras on Bourbon Street
LSGRA Chili Cook-off Winner, Golden Lantern
Nat cocktailin’ at the Phoenix The Zoo Revue at Big Daddy’s
MCC Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, JohnPaul’s John & Leon Huton at Camp Pride hosted at JohnPaul’s
Marcy Marcell & the Starlight Girls
Mardi Gras at Ninth Circle
Mardi Gras at the Phoenix
EXPOSE'-20 of 48 • Feb. 12-25, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM
photos: Miss Dee, Red
Stephanie Lee & Queen Petronius Dawn join Camp Pride at JohnPaul’s
Cook-offs, Shows, Clubs, Leather ~ New Orleans
LSGRA Chili Cook-off Winner, Golden Lantern