Ambush magazine volume 27 issue 15 by Ambush Publishing

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

Southern Decadence Press Party Wed., July 29 at JohnPauls, Kicks Off Giant Labor Day Wknd. Celebration

t's almost here, the giant 38th annual Southern Decadence weekend September 2-7. And Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Tittie Toulouse and Paloma are ready to reveal the 2009 theme, poster, song, colors and sponsors at the annual Southern Decadence Press Party. Scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, 8-10pm, the grand marshals intend to unite the Bywater, Marigny and French Quarter neighborhoods together at JohnPauls, 940 Elysian Fields, for New Orleans largest GLBT circuit weekend. The 2008 grand marshals continue their reign for the 2009 Southern Decadence XXXVIII celebration since Hurricane Gustav cut their reign short last year, cancelling their parade. This precedent was set back in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina cancelled Southern Decadence leading to SDGMs XXXIII Lisa Beaumann and Regina Adams continuing their reign into 2006. The 2009 celebration is expected to pump millions of dollars Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV into the local economy with some Tittie Toulouse & Paloma 100,000 participants anticipated. E(Photo: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM) mails and inquiries pour into Ambush Headquarters and SouthernDecadence.COM for information on the big weekend.

Oldest Traditional Events Free at Southern Decadence

any who have made inquiries into the upcoming 38th annual Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture did not realize that many of the events and parties are free and open to the public. The oldest traditional events are all free and include the annual Southern Decadence Drag Show kicking off Southern Decadence weekend featuring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma which is set for Friday, September 4 at the Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby's Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street, beginning at 9pm. The big day is Sunday, September 6 when SDGMs Tittie and Paloma lead the 35th annual Southern Decadence Parade winding its way through the French Quarter beginning at 2pm sharp at 1239 Royal Street outside the Lantern. Around 4ish pm the grand marshals head to Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street , to lead the 16th annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss from the world famous Ambush balcony. And on Monday, don't forget the 12th annual Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl starting at The Corner Pocket, 940 St. Louis Street, at 2pm. Loads of other events are scheduled as well. You can check out the most comprehensive list at SouthernDecadence.COM and click on 38th Southern Decadence Events/2009. You can also book your hotel accommodations right from the Southern Decadence website.

22nd GAA Gala Garners Largest Attendance & Most Money Raised, $3,587, Announcing the Winners

he 22nd annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala, hosted for the first time on Bourbon Street at Oz, brought in the largest attendance, over 200, and the most money ever raised, $3,587 for Buzzy's Boys & Girls. Since Ambush sponsors the event each year, and covers all expenses, the entire evening's proceeds benefit the charity. VIP Table sales raised $1,875, door donations $1,310, stage performance tips $302, and $100 in donations. Since 1997, the GAA Gala has raised a total of $36,273 for charity. The evening was dedicated to AIDS activist Don Evans who was the recipient of the prestigious 22nd Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a certified HIV prevention counselor having been involved in the HIV/AIDS arena for thirteen years. He is currently employed with a not-for-profit agency Natural Resources for Preparing Educating and Changing Environments (N’R PEACE, Inc.), where he serves as the Special Projects Coordinator.

GAA Board of Directors Lisa Beaumann and Teryl-Lynn Foxx emceed the affair, while GAA Founder Marcy Marcell opened the show. The huge crowd was treated to the fabulous talents of 2008 Entertainers of the Year Elizabeth Bouvier/ New Orleans joined by Barbara Ella, and Nicole Foxx/Baton Rouge. Additionally, Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalists Oz, Parade, and JohnPaul's did outstanding productions for the festivities.

Southern Decadence Announcements Edition due out Tuesday, Aug. 4 inside DEADLINE: Tuesday, July 28 sd press party krewe calendar sappho psalm trodding the boards the pink pastor alabama paparazzi celebrazzi gaa gala paparazzi/new orleans everybody's a critic gaa gala paparazzi/new orleans under the gaydar halloween new orleans

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in the spotlight, e-mails 38th official southern decadence classifieds hot tails of red stick/baton rouge red stick paparazzi/baton rouge alexandria, alexandria paparazzi allons acadiana/lafayette drag 101 acadiana paparazzi/lafayette ambush paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/new orleans chop chop/nola restaurant guide

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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com The awards thanks those in the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender community who are many times not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the GLBT community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today across the Gulf South. The Gulf South readership of Ambush chose the winners in public on-line voting including: Circuit Party/Event of the Year: Halloween Hair Salon of the Year: Salon D'Malta Gay Carnival Ball of the Year: Lords of Leather Neighborhood Bar of the Year: Cafe Lafitte in Exile Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award: Toby Lefort Bitch of the Year: Princesse Stephaney Show Bar of the Year: JohnPaul's Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award (named by the GAA Board of Directors in honor of the late Donald "Donnie Jay" James): New Orleans Gay Men's Chorus Restaurant/Deli of the Year: Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli Dance Bar of the Year: Oz Bartender of the Year: Jeff Palmquist/ Cafe Lafitte in Exile DJ of the Year: Tim Pflueger/Oz Leather Bar of the Year: Phoenix GLBT Business of the Year: Alternatives Leather Person of the Year: Gary Vandeventer Transgender of the Year: Regina Adams Lesbian of the Year: (a tie) Marty Curtin/ New Orleans, and Chansley Dykes/Baton Rouge Gay Man of the Year: Toby Lefort Entertainer of the Year: (a tie) Coca, and Ama Rosa The GAA Board chose the winners of the Fly Fashion Glamour Award (in memory of Ms. Fly): Opal Vanderhurst, and the Cheridon Comedy Award (in memory of Sonny Cheridon Cleveland): Gia/Baton Rouge. The Marsha Delain Award of Excellence: The Drag Ambassador Award chosen by Marsha Naquin-Delain was presented to Christina Cayne of Glitz: The Art of Female Impersonation. The GAA Board of Directors includes Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, and Toni J.P. [continued on 6]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

GulfSouthEntertainment/TravelGuideSince 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide OfficialSouthernDecadenceGuide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] E-mail: marsha@ripandmarsha.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, Foley, Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson Texas - Austin, Dallas, Houston

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 Chris Perkins-Lafayette, LA Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Craig Powell, 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 Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2009, AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

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Memorials Raise $7,097 for Donald "Donnie Jay" James

A Counseling Cooperative

ollowing the death of Donald "Donnie Jay" James, friends got together for two big events celebrating the legend's life raising $7,097 for his expenses. The birthday celebration and show hosted by Tubby's Golden Lantern raised $6,045 in donations, while the memorial show at The Marigny Theatre brought in $1,052 in donations. Donnie Jay's power of attorney, Timm Holt, has released the expense disbursements including $1,473 for cremation and certificates, $300 for band for memorial, $150 for memorial food, $50 for memorial miscellaneous expenses (plates, napkins, etc.), $150 for returned checks, $1,000 for To Do Productions expenses, and $1,000 for tomb opening (estimated) for a total of $4,123. The remaining $2,974 will be used in Donnie Jay's memory. According to Timm Holt, "We are in the process of forming a committee of the Marigny Theatre Board to oversee the Donnie Jay Memorial Play Competition so the exact dollar amounts for the expenditures are not known at this time, but this is what is anticipated. There will be costs for advertisement of the contest, production expenses, and stipend to the winner. The fund will then receive profits from the play production to keep it funded."

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ACLU Urges Federal Appeals Court To Require Louisiana To Issue Birth Certificate To Adopted Child Of Gay Couple

EW ORLEANS, LA - The Ameri can Civil Liberties Union filed a friend-of-the-court brief urging a federal appeals court to uphold an earlier decision requiring Louisiana to issue a birth certificate with the names of both parents to a boy who was adopted by a gay couple in New York. “Longstanding constitutional law requires states to respect court orders from other states,” said Marjorie Esman, Executive Director of the ACLU of Louisiana. “Yet our attorney general has attempted to cast aside that principle to project his view of morality on a boy and his family. Fortunately, the U.S. Supreme Court has made

it perfectly clear that government actions that are intended solely to disadvantage one group of people won’t pass constitutional review.” Oren Adar and Mickey Smith, who are represented by Lambda Legal, adopted their Louisiana-born son in 2006 in a New York court. Soon thereafter, Smith attempted to get a new birth certificate in Louisiana for their son listing Adar and Smith as the boy’s parents. The state is required by law to issue new birth certificates to adoptive parents, and Adar and Smith hoped to use the birth certificate to establish Smith’s relationship to the boy for purposes of including him on Smith’s health insurance plan. Ignoring established constitutional law, the Louisiana Attorney General objected to the issuance of the birth certificate and advised the registrar that she didn’t have to issue the birth certificate because the couple is unmarried and the adoption would not

have been granted if they lived in Louisiana. On December 23, 2008, a U.S. District Court ruled against the registrar and ordered the registrar to issue the birth certificate identifying both Adar and Smith as the boy’s parents. The state appealed the decision, which is now pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. It its friend-of-the-court brief, the ACLU charges that denying a child of unmarried parents a birth certificate that accurately reflects his or her relationship to his or her legal parents singles these children out for discrimination. According to the brief, the only possible reason for the state to deny children of unmarried couples a birth certificate is to express moral disapproval of unmarried couples, which is unconstitutional. “We are hopeful the Court of Appeals will see send a strong message to elected [continued on 8]

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Here Media, Inc. produces and distributes niche content across all platforms worldwide. Here Media’s iconic brands distribute gay media and world cinema programming with universal, humanistic appeal. Its distribution platforms include theaters, television, VOD, broadband, online, print and mobile. It earns subscription, advertising and licensing revenue from its award-winning content. Here Media owns and operates a variety of media assets including: Here Studios, a full service motion picture studio. Here Films, a motion picture distribution company. here! Networks, a premium television network featuring programming that appeals to a gay and lesbian audience airing in 96 of the top 100 US markets, including every top 10 market. Iconic print brands including Out, Advocate and HIV Plus, as well as Alyson Books. Online properties including Gay.com, Planetout.com, Advocate.com, Out.com and SheWired.com which provide broadband video and social networking. Paul Colichman is Chief Executive Officer of Here Media and Stephen P. Jarchow is Chairman. Together, they have produced and/or distributed over 200 motion pictures including Academy Award® winners Gods and Monsters and Departures.

Drag Royalty Jackie Beat, Coco Peru & Varla Jean Merman Hit The Stage For A Live Taping Of One Night Stand Up the "official" dish ...from 6 officials that political grand standing won’t fly when children are harmed,” added Esman. Oral argument in the case has not yet been scheduled. The legal team who drafted the brief includes Katie Schwartzmann, legal director of the ACLU of Louisiana, James Esseks, co-director of the ACLU LGBT Project and Ken Choe, a senior staff attorney with the ACLU LGBT Project. Information about the case is available at www.lambdalegal.org/in-court/ cases/adar-v-smith.html.

Bruno Comes OUT for Cover Shoot

EW YORK– As movie theaters gear up for the summer’s most controversial movie, Out magazine is marking the moment by putting Austria’s second most notorious export on the cover of its August issue. Strapped to a giant knife thrower’s target, with a thong peeking out of his silver pants, Art Streiber’s cover shot of Bruno— aka Sacha Baron Cohen—implicitly acknowledges the polarizing debate around the star’s hit-and-run comedy, which opens Friday, July 10th. The August issue of Out magazine hits newsstands on July 21, 2009. “Yes, he is puerile, offensive, and utterly inappropriate, but so what?” writes Out’s Editor in Chief Aaron Hicklin in his Editor’s Letter. “The same has been said of Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor, Joan Rivers, and Sarah Silverman, comic geniuses all, whose humor rests on having the balls to say ‘boo’ to the ghost in the room.” “The ghost in this case,” he adds, “is homophobia, although whether it’s being lampooned or perpetuated is part of the tension that makes the movie work.” Interviewed by Mo Rocca for Out, the Austrian fashion star offers fashion tips for solving the Middle East conflict—“Did you know zat not one suicide bomber has ever blown zemselves up wearing Marc

os Angeles, CA – All Out Films is bursting with pride to present the very first all-drag version of LOGO TV’s hit comedy series One Night Stand Up with a fabulous, fierce and funny cast — Jackie Beat, Miss Coco Peru and Varla Jean Merman. The show will be filmed live Sept. 19, at the state-of-the-art Broad Stage (http:// www.thebroadstage.com) in Santa Monica. Drag superstar Jackie Beat has been entertaining audiences for over 10 years with her razor-sharp comedy and hysterical song parodies. Her one-woman show Jackie Beat Is A Whole Lotta Love was a hit, and her stand-up has been featured in comedy clubs across the country and on Comedy Central, VH-1 and MTV. She is one of US Magazine’s Fashion Police top cops and she’s appeared in Sex and the City, Flawless, and Wigstock: The Movie. Miss Coco Peru became a favorite in New York in the early 1990s with her show Miss Coco Peru in My Goddamn Cabaret. Coco, aka Clinton Leupp, shared the Outfest Film Festival “Best Actor” Award and the Aspen HBO Film Festival “Best Actress” Award for her featured performance in Girls Will Be Girls (Sundance 2003) with co-star Jeffery Roberson, whose alter-ego Varla Jean Merman will also share the stage Sept. 19 for the One Night Stand Up. Varla, who played the role of Mary Sunshine in the revival of Chicago on Broadway, also wrote and starred in the short Improve Your History with Varla Jean: Stonewall, for LOGO. Her shows Varla Jean Merman Loves A Foreign Tongue, Girl With A Pearl Necklace, All Washed Up! and The Very Worst of Varla Jean Merman have filled concert halls and cabarets around the world. Emceeing the evening will be the androgynous genderJacobs?”—and explains why Utah is his favorite gaycation spot in America: “So many single hot guys mit nowhere to put it—talk about bending Ongina, best known for a scene-stealing appearance on RuPaul’s reality series on LOGO TV Drag Race. ein Salty Lake!” Also in the August issue: One Night Stand Up may never be the same,” says In addition to her TV show, her 17 cookbooks, and a memoir, Sandra Lee is now the publisher of her own magazine. But can the creator and producer Andrea Meyerson. “This is the first time campy, vampy Food Network star, and girlfriend of New York state these stellar entertainers have come together to perform on attorney general Andrew Cuomo, turn herself into a bona fide gay icon one stage, for one night in one spectacular show. I couldn’t without alienating the Midwestern housewives that make up the think of a better lineup for the first One Night Stand Up drag largest part of her base? Joshua David Stein joins her on the episode!” campaign trail. To find out more about All Out Films, visit http:// Meghan McCain describes herself as a pro-gay marriage Republican. She has called Ann Coulter a “train wreck” and Karl Rove alloutfilms.com. a “Twitter creep.” In this issue of Out, she tells James Kirchick how California’s Proposition 8 galvanized her into action, and says of Joe Satyricon Presents Opening Night the Plumber, “He’s a dumbass. He should stick to plumbing.” of My First Time PLUS: he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon will present the Take Back the Night: Joshua David Stein investigates the revival opening night performance of the New Orleans of a great institution—the gay bar. premiere of My First Time, on Thursday, August Inside the world of gay underground boxing: Reporter Brian 13, 8pm, at Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave. All tickets for Thomas Gallgaher meets the gay boxers who train on the DL in this show only are $25 and may be obtained by calling Harlem. 504.525.4498.

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krewe calendar Ambush Mag is providing its Carnival/Krewe Calendar to assist Gay Mardi Gras Krewes with their fund-raisers, functions and balls to support and help preserve the cultural fabric of the GLBT community. To submit your carnival/krewe function, e-mail info@gaymardigras.com.

Saturday, July 25th... ~Lords of Leather Vegas Game Night, JohnPaul’s Saturday, August 8th... ~9-11pm, Lords of Leather Ms. Louisiana Leatherette Contest, JohnPaul’s Sunday, August 9th... ~4-6pm, Krewe of Amon Ra Sister Sundae Social, Miss Turn-About Contest, All-Ways Lounge

Thursday, August 13th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents My First Time, $25, Le Chat Noir Friday, September 4th... ~10pm, Lords of Leather Decadence Block Party, Phoenix Thursday, September 10th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents Amy Alvarez with Jefferson Turner, $25, Le Chat Noir Saturday, September 19th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra Playboy Bunny & Chippendale Rejects Contest (Mr./Miss America) (time and location TBA) Thursday, October 1st... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents Andrea Marcovicci sings

Songs from the Movies, $30, Le Chat Noir Sunday, October 4th... ~Lords of Leather Halloween Haunted House & Decoration Auction, JohnPaul’s Friday-Sunday, October 16th18th ~Lords of Leather Mr. Louisiana Leather Weekend, Various Locations Saturday October 24th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra Halloween Party (time and location TBA) Friday, October 30th... ~9pm, Lords of Leather Fifth Friday Beer Bust, Phoenix Saturday, November 21st... ~ 7-11pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Thanksgiving Buffet and Silent Auction with entertainer Lisa Lynn, $10 all-you-can-eat, JohnPaul’s

Saturday, November 28th... ~9pm, Lords of Leather American Bandstand, TBA Sunday, November 29th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra “Pot Luck” function (time and location TBA) Sunday, December 6th... ~Lords of Leather Art Gallery Event & Auction, JohnPaul’s Saturday, December 12th... ~1-5pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Annual Christmas Buffet and Auction, $10 all-you-can-eat, Friendly Bar Annex Sunday, December 13th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra presents Amon-Ra Rockettes (time and location TBA)

2010 EVENTS Saturday, January 2nd... ~7-11pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon 8th Annual 12th Night Ball, $20 Admission, Country Club Saturday, January 9th... ~8pm, doors open 7:30pm, 12th Annual Krewe of Mwindo Ball, Best Western Landmark Hotel, 2601 Severn Ave., Metairie Sunday, January 10th... ~Lords of Leather Royalty Appreciation Party & Mardi Gras Wreath Auction, JohnPaul’s Saturday, January 23rd... ~8pm, Krewe of Queenateenas’ 17th King Cake Queen Coronation presenting the 2010 King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras, by invitation only Sunday, January 24th... ~7pm, Krewe of Petronius Bal Masque XLIX, site TBA Saturday, February 6th... ~8pm, Krewe of Amon Ra Bal Masque XLV, Alario Center, Westwego Sunday, February 7th... ~7pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque VIII, $20 General Admission, Sugar Mill, 1101 Convention Center Blvd. Friday, February 12th... ~10pm-2am, Lords of Leather & Phoenix present Night of the Black Mask: The South’s Oldest Leather Block Party, Phoenix/Eagle, Elysian Fields @ N. Rampart Saturday, February 13th... ~12noon, Annual Spanish Town Parade, 5th & Spanish Town Road, Baton Rouge ~8pm, Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLII, Alario Center Sunday, February 14th... ~8pm, Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXVII, Alario Center

MARDI GRAS (Fat Tuesday), February 16th... ~12noon, 46th Annual Bourbon Street Awards, Oz, Corner of St. Ann at 800 Bourbon St. ~2pm - 23rd Annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss, led by King Cake Queen XVII, Ambush Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.

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sappho psalm by Toni J.P. Pizanie E-mail: psalmwrite@att.net

Dining Out for Life

y the time this issue is distributed, Dining Out for Life will be a joyful memory. At this point for me, it is in the planning stages, and I am trying to get a group of women together for a meal at Tomatillo’s Mexican Joint. This is one of Julie Thompson’s favorite spots. She is hoping to get her daughter, Karen, to join us as she will be visiting

from Texas. There are also four PFLAG women on our guest list – shades of 2008. However, we are open for a girls’ night out so we are not limiting ourselves to one organization or sexual orientation. Since spending the month of June in the hospital, I missed the Lazarus Dinner, HRC’s Dinner, and several other events. I intend to make this a very happy make-up party. This is the 15th year of Dining Out for

trodding the boards

Life. I’ve been trying to remember which restaurants I’ve enjoyed the most but they all run together because of the great company. I think I’ve had more meals at Vega Tapas Café just because it is the closest to home; La Peniche because it is one of my favorites but I cannot remember the rest. Now here is how the planning is going, Julie isn’t sure when Karen is arriving. Er - what happened to telephones? Lynn Lamonte has invited other friends which is a good sign. Rebecca is always late or doesn’t show up so she is a maybe. Since Lynn is on the LGCCNO Board, I am hoping that she will invite some of the women from the Center. I’ve tried calling some of the PFLAG women without a lot of luck. In fact, the same women that attended last year have already said they would meet us

ment, by the final curtain it instead offered something even more satisfying. Gonzalez reset this tale of two pairs of separated-at-birth twins in eighteenth century New Orleans. Though a nice touch, it neither added nor detracted from the by Brian Sands story. Casting black actors, however, as E-mail: bsnola2@hotmail.com the two Dromios, slaves to the two play her as a child. David Murray (Ugly), Antipholuses, and transforming Dr. Pinch HONK! at the Jefferson Monica Mumphrey (Cat), Joseph Arrigo into a voodoo conjurer gave especial resoPerforming Arts Center (Drake), Katie Bancroft (Maureen), nance to this production, even if the slave/ quack, a gobble and a hearty Madeline Bouegeois (Dot) and Morgan master dimension was (understandably) cock-a-doodle-doo to the re- Hahn (Penny) were all wonderful with Troy treated in a fairly light manner. cent JPAS Summer Youth Mu- Tumminello (Greylag) and Kyler Pischiotta Unlike other more frenetic Comedy’s sical Theatre production of HONK! With a (Bullfrog) providing fine comic turns. A I’ve seen, this one occasionally seemed stageful of precociously talented kids, this special honk-out to the eight ducklings a bit wordy. But Gonzalez compensated was a show not for the birds but for all who who were not only cute but did their thing with cute visual touches and fun comic appreciate musical theater at its most with aplomb. frills such as a banana eaten with a small high-flying. Musical Director Alan Payne brought dainty fork, a stack of seemingly stationary After appearing in the provinces, his same high standards to this “kids” boxes propelled by a hidden Dromio, and HONK! made its London debut at the show as he does to adult ones and Christie a trap door for quick exits from the local National Theatre, and went on to win the Zimmerman’s choreography was perfect courtesan’s parlor. 2000 Olivier Award for Best New Musical and perfectly executed. In all, this HONK! Best of all was the final reconciliation beating out Mamma Mia! (understand- was an egg-cellent, unadulterated descene in which long lost children, parents able) and The Lion King (impressive tho light. and siblings found each other. This someI might’ve called it a tie). Based on Hans times comes off as broad “Omigod” shtik. Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling, Gonzalez & Co., however, settled for nothThe Comedy of Errors Anthony Drewe’s book and lyrics are witty, ing less than conveying the genuine emocharming and, ultimately, quite moving. at Lupin Theatre/ tion of such a momentous occasion. With George Stiles’ music may not soar above Tulane University a stageful of folks exuding the warmth of the clouds but it flies along with tuneful nlike other Shakespearean hard-earned happiness, it was as lovely a melodies that merit a second (or third) comedies, The Comedy of moment as I’ve ever seen in Shakespeare. hearing. Together they offer a steady stream Errors does not feature deep The entire ensemble spoke the of surprises and two hours of smile-in- psychological insight like Much Ado About Bard’s words trippingly, clearly and with ducing merriment. Nothing or moral complexity like Mea- an appealing truthfulness of character. As witnessed by the Ambie Award- sure for Measure. This tale of mistaken The two pairs of twins (Nathan Riley/ winning Cats of two years ago, the JPAS Michael Aaron Santos as Summer Youth Musical Theatre seems to the Antipholuses and do especially well when animals are inAaron Scott/Isreal M. volved and Frannie Rosenberg’s producScott as the Dromios) tion of HONK! gave much to crow about. were not only extremely Rosenberg ingeniously managed to well cast visually but their make 83 chicks, er, 3rd to 8th graders manners convinced that waddle, slink, hop and scurry around the they well could’ve been large stage with the utmost of professionbrothers. Though fine alism. Using white umbrellas, swatches throughout, Santos’ lyriof cloth and a surfeit of imagination, cal flair was best put to Rosenberg properly hatched the show’s use in his wooing of full comic potential and emotional heft. Luciana, portrayed by In HONK!’s large brood, all the duckAminisha Ferdinand, an lings, goslings and other assorted farm elegant actress new to creatures gave incredibly assured performe but who I hope I’ll mances with clarion voices and diction see more of in the future. some more seasoned performers could A special commenda(clockwise from upper left:) take a lesson from. As the mother of the tion to George J. Sanchez Michael Aaron Santos, Nathan Riley, Aaron Scott, Isreal ugly duckling, Jenna Ibieta fulfilled and for making his long, exM. Scott in The Comedy of Errors even exceeded the promise she showed position-filled opening last year as the Queen in Once Upon a identities can be fairly judged by how many monolog seem like naturally occurring Mattress. By turns loving, proud, deter- laughs it provides. If Lorenzo Gonzalez’ conversation. mined, comically put upon, and worried if recent production for the Tulane If this Comedy did not hit a grand she’s doing right by her child, Ibieta seems Shakespeare Festival came up a little to be ready for Broadway especially if short, but just a little, in the yocks depart[continued on 14] Sarah Jane McMahon needs someone to

there. My dear doctors don’t want me to drive yet so Lynn will be my chauffeur. In fact, the docs don’t want me to be alone. They are afraid that I’ll stop breathing and not get to the oxygen quickly enough. I’ve recruited some of these women to sleep at the house with me. How is that for a scam? I may be old but I’m crafty. Where is Ray, you ask. He left for a month’s vacation in Arizona with Rex and Father Nicholas. Thanks to Ray’s previous commitment, I get to innocently ask women to spend the night with me, take me shopping or even go to a movie where I can make a subtle move. The only bad part of the plan is that Amy, my Godchild, will be spending most of the evenings and nights with me. Did you know that the participating restaurants will donate 25 percent of their proceeds to the NO/AIDS Task Force? And there is also the opportunity to win a night’s stay at The International House Hotel. Randy Trahan and his large group of family and friends will be trying a new restaurant on the Northshore. New to them. This is Juniper’s first year participating in Dining Out For Life. I’ll let you know how it went in the next issue but I know now that it will be fun. Good people always make for good times.

Taste of Disney World

alt Disney Pictures is bringing a fantastic and interactive attraction across the country and it will be stopping in New Orleans on August 7-9th at the Riverview in Audubon Park, also known as "The Fly" (6500 Magazine St.) from 9am-7pm on Friday and Saturday, and 9am-4pm on Sunday. And best of all, the attraction is totally free! This is to promote the Robert Zemeckis film, Disney’s A Christmas Carol which opens on November 6th. The train consists of 4 custom-designed vintage rail cars (plus a private car) full of behind the scenes attractions, entertaining demonstrations, and fun activities for all. Among the highlights are authentic artifacts on loan from the Charles Dickens Museum of London, artwork, costumes and props from the film, demonstrations of performance capture technology, and a chance to morph your face into one of the film’s characters. There will be a state of the art Disney Digital 3D Theatre erected, where guests can get a sneak peek of the movie and see other exclusive behind the scenes materials, as well as a Winter Wonderland by which snow will fall throughout the event. This is an Amtrak locomotive and each train station will be themed with holiday decorations, and feature artwork from the film, Christmas Carolers, and many more activities. The film uses a groundbreaking, performance-capture 3D technology. This allows Jim Carrey to tackle seven roles, including Scrooge and all of the Christmas spirits. This is a chance to introduce your children, your nieces and nephews or your friends children to the genius of Charles Dickens and Disney. It is your chance to let the child inside of you come out to play. I hope that COLAG will take advantage of this event as it will be a wonderful way to bring gay parents and their children of any age to enjoy a day together.

12 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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trodding the boards ...from 12 slam, there were certainly no errors in this winning production.

OLIVER! at Dixon Hall/ Tulane University

”

Please, sir, I want some more,” Oliver Twist famously implored. I know how he feels. Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre’s production of Lionel Bart’s version of the Dickens novel dished up lots of musical theater razzmatazz but left me feeling very undernourished. One doesn’t expect a musical comedy to necessarily be true to life. But a disconnect existed when, in the opening number Food, Glorious Food, a dozen

orphans came on singing about how they’re starved for food yet peppily dancing like they had overdosed on Cap’n Crunch cereal. This continued throughout the first act as B. Michael Howard seemed to be directing for a Disneyland crowd with lots of cute smiles and perky energy both of which can be fine but are somewhat illsuited for this Victorian tale set among the lower depths. Aside for a few secondary songs that were wisely cut from the Academy Award-winning movie, Bart’s score features great numbers that here barely registered before they were over and we were on to the next high-kicking, faux music hall ditty. It wasn’t until midway through the second act, when a thoughtfully staged Who Will Buy? finally arrived, with beauti-

ful tableaus and an arrangement worthy of an Elgar oratorio, that it became apparent what Howard along with choreographer Diane Lala could have achieved. Instead we got precision-drilled aerobics routines until the final chase along the Thames which was sloppily done and devoid of any dramatic tension. It needn’t have turned out this way. Under Musical Director C. Leonard Raybon’s baton, the cast sang consistently well, even when the tempi seemed relentlessly upbeat. In addition to Who Will Buy?, Act Two gave the marvelous Chase Kamata as Nancy the opportunity to show off her powerfully expressive, fullthroated voice in As Long As He Needs Me and, going head to head with the menacingly evil Bill Sykes of John Grimsley, pro-

vide the production’s dramatic high point as well. In his spoken scenes, Ricky Graham proved he has the makings of a superb Fagin in him with his oily charm and weaselly subservience counterbalancing a determined survival ethic and a genuine concern for his pickpocketing charges. Musically, especially in some of the big numbers, however, Graham fell victim to the overriding cuteness factor, needlessly sugarcoating his character. Likewise, Michael Moore has the potential to be a memorable Artful Dodger yet, after his more mature performances at NOCCA, he seemed frustrated by the mere two-dimensional demands he was required to fulfill here. Aaron Richert as Oliver, though singing with an angelic voice, is not (yet) the most natural of actors, however, and his British accent seemed to get in the way of his lyrics at times. I would have liked to have seen what HONK!’s Joseph Arrigo could have done in this role. All that said, one man’s gruel is another man’s cheese’n’grits and apparently many people thoroughly enjoyed this OLIVER! Me, I’m sticking with the movie.

Essence Music Festival at the Superdome FUN!

f you had to describe the Essence Music Festival in one word, “fun” would have to be at the top of the list. It’s a party, it’s a celebration, and it’s an opportunity to hear world class music. How could it not be fun? Mostly for matters of scheduling this was my first time at Essence. Though there was only a smattering of people in the Superdome, the program started at 7pm sharp with En Vogue. Stylish and chic, their luscious harmonies took them through such hits of theirs as Never Gonna Get It and Free Your Mind as well as a great 15 minute old school medley that got the audience grooving. Ain’t No Mountain, Bad Girls, You Can Ring My Bell, Lady Marmalade, Got To Be Real, R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Proud Mary—they don’t write’em like that any more! By the time Teena Marie came on at 8pm, right on time, the Dome was considerably more filled up. If the ’80s blue eyed soul diva looked a little matronly in a Janis Joplin sort of way, she still has an amazing voice and wowed the crowd with such songs as What You do to Me Baby and her big hit Lovergirl. By 9:30pm, when Al Green came on, the joint was jumping. A true showman, when he says “I can make it rain”, you believe him. He was in rare form leading the audience in a sing-along of Amazing Grace and taking us to church before getting down to his hits Let’s Stay Together, Tired of Being Alone and Love and Happiness and causing dancing in the aisles. An American original, what a treat to see this incredible man perform. In addition to the featured acts on the main stage, there are four Superlounges on the loge level where smaller, often local acts entertain throughout the evening, and when one of those acts is the Rebirth Brass Band some might say that’s where the real party is happening. Both Rebirth and Trombone Shorty and the Orleans Avenue All Stars were awesome, testaments to the vast talent in our own back[continued on 21]

14 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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the pink pastor by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, 504.214.4340 E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com www.thebigeasymccblog.blogspot.com

am writing this on Bastille Day, the day the French celebrate the storming of the Bastille, that infamous jail that symbolized all the evils of the old regime. Though it took many years and great struggle to realize, the founding principles of the revolution - Liberté, égalité, fraternité (liberty, equality, brotherhood) have been adopted as a gold standard far beyond the shores of France. Liberty was defined in 1789 by ‘The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen’ in these terms... ’Liberty consists of being able to do anything that does not harm others: thus, the exercise of the natural rights of every man or woman has no bounds other than those that guarantee other members of society the enjoyment of these same rights.’ This is the highest secular concept of liberty, and one that allows the greatest freedom of choice for the greatest number - It is our spiritual creed that then fleshes out that freedom of choice, and challenges us to decide to what end is it going to be ordered. We as Christians have another call on our decisions - instead of the passive ‘do nothing that harms others’ we have the active ‘do everything that shows love to others’ - it is our communal life together that defines our Christianity. Christianity is never a solitary religion, it is never just private faith, its true meaning and consequences are worked out in community with others. That is the tough lesson that the revolutionaries learned, that it was their treatment of their fellow men and women that came to be the judgment on the revolution, not just the

fact of their individual liberty, but what they did with it! The great cry against tyranny that the French Revolution represented is to be applauded; the massacre and squalor that followed it is a stain upon the whole venture. Like the Russian Revolution over a century later, the violence and injustice it spawned derailed the whole project, and France ended up gradually evolving into a modern democracy, it wasn’t created in the revolution in the same way that Democracy was created in the American Revolution (for some). What it represented was greatness of the moment, not greatness of the consequence, what it did show was the great power of human passion that can be turned to good or ill. Benjamin Disraeli, the 19th century British prime minister has this to say– “It was not reason that besieged Troy; it was not reason that sent forth the Saracen from the desert to conquer the world; that inspired the crusades; that instituted the monastic orders; it was not reason that produced the Jesuits; above all, it was not reason that created the French Revolution. Man is only great when he acts from the passions; never irresistible but when he appeals to the imagination.” I draw a lesson from all this talk of passion and reason. A church that appeals only to reason is going to look very Episcopalian, and will not easily find a place for the presence of the glory of God. Likewise a church that appeals ONLY to the passions is going to look very United Pentecostal, and will find itself increasingly isolated, and even redundant in the light of the communal wisdom we accumulate as a society, and the hard light of scientific fact. There is a happy medium, there is a ‘Goldilocks’ church, not too hot and not too cold, and it is my job to be a part of finding it and building it! History has taught that there was altogether too much raw passion in the French revolution, and not enough of the cold reason that lay at the foundations of the American Revolution Charles Caleb Colton, the English sportsman and writer summed it up in this way, writing as he was some fifty years after the event; “The consequences of things are not always proportionate to the apparent magnitude of those events that have produced them. Thus the American Revolution, from which little was expected, produced much; but the French Revolution, from which much was expected, produced little.” Rev. Clinton Crawshaw is the Pastor of The Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church in New Orleans. They meet every Sunday at 5pm at St. Matthews Church at 1333 S. Carrollton Ave., NOLA 70118 – ring or e-mail for details. pastor@bigeasymcc.com 504.214.4340. Sermons streamed online at www.bigeasymcc.com.

The gangs all here @ B-Bob’s

alabama

paparazzi

Christian with his buddies @ B-Bob’s

Miss Cie, Lee G. & Miss Alabama USofA Tiffany Racheals @ B-Bob’s

Miss Cie with guests Miss Loretta & Pensacola’s Valerie Hart @ B-Bob’s

A celeb joins Miss Loretta, Michael & Tony @ B-Bob’s Genre’ with the boys at B-Bob’s

B-Bob’s bartenders Judson & Jason always make u smile

Venus Shante’ Da Vis directing Sunday night shows @ Club Evolution in Foley

38th Souther n Decadence Blo w out Southern Blow SouthernDecadence.COM

The girls celebratin’ their engagement @ B-Bob’s

Club Evolution owner PR & his sweetheart in Foley

16 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Excitement by the Bay ~ Mobile & Foley, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John

Dangerous Passions

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King Mwindo I Byron Hogan receives Royalty Award

Teryl-Lynn Foxx receives the Entertainer Award

he 22nd annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala culminated with the presentation of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Don Evans, an activist in the HIV/AIDS community for some 13 years. Hosted for the first time on Bourbon Street at Oz, this gala boasted the largest attendance and most money raised for charity, $3,587, in the history of the awards program. Since Ambush sponsors the event covering all expenses, the William Fanning Foundation, affectionately known as Buzzy Boys & Girls, was the recipient of the entire proceeds of the evening. VIP Table sales raised $1,875, door donations $1,310, stage performance tips $302, and $100 in donations. Special thanks to all that made this possible, and especially to those that bought VIP Tables including: Queen Amon Ra XLIII and XLII Opal Masters and Darwin Reed, King and Queen Amon Ra XLIV Nick Olivares and Rhonda Roget, 700 Club, King Cake Queen XVI Tami Tarmac and King Amon Ra XLIII, two tables from JohnPaul's, Lord King XVI Gary Vandeventer, Alternatives, Marty Curtin and Koo Gaffney, two tables from Bywater Restaurant-Deli-BBQ, Jeff Palmquist, Bill Fitch, DJ Myke, and Oz. Two donations of $50 were courtesy of Miss Gay America 2006 Nicole Dubois, and Easter Grand Marshal VIII Tom "Rona" Conners and Bob Boler. (Photo: GAA Boards Lisa Beaumann, Recipient Don Evans, and GAA Boards Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, and Teryl-Lynn Foxx. GAA Boards Toni Pizanie was unable to attend.) For more on the Gay Appreciation Awards visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA.

Queen Mwindo I Thomas Franklin, aka Arianne Ashlee Poindexter, receives Royalty Award

Krewe of Petronius receives the Krewe Award as the longest operating gay krewe since 1961, Queen Petronius XLVIII Freddie Guess, Captain Bill McCarthy & King Petronius XLVIII Arthur Alarcon

Michael "Fish" Hickerson receives Community Outreach Award

Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain received the Communications Award

he Board of Directors of the Gay Easter Parade, and Easter Grand Marshals X Marcy Marcell and Tony Leggio presented $15,528.75 to Food For Friends Director Glen Kahrman, the profits from the 10th Gay Easter Parade, at the 22nd annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala at Oz in New Orleans. Special thanks to all who made this possible and especially the 2009 Gay Easter Parade Sponsors including: Platinum: Bobby Connell/Phoenix, Harrah's H.E.R.O.'s (Harrah's Employees Reaching Out); Gold: Lord King XXVI Gary Vandeventer & Lord Consort XXVI Bruce Orgeron, Krewe of Amon Ra, Jack Saucier & the late Glenn Timpe, In Memory of Steve Mettner, John Vignone & Paul Chiriaco/ JohnPaul's, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli; Silver: 16th King Cake Queen Coronation, EGM VIII Tom "Rona" Conners & Bob Boler, Stephen Murrell & Elizabeth Bouvier, David & Rhonda Roget, Krewe of Petronius, EGM IX Safonda Peters & Stuart Nettles, EGM VIII Michael Elias & Jay Sewell/The Corner Pocket, Darwin Reed & EGM VII Opal Masters, Nick Olivares & Roy Smith, Wood Enterprises, FourPlay, Oz; Bronze: Dawn C. Leggio, Jill E. Dolese, EGM X Tony Leggio, Michelle Calachino, Mike Cookmeyer & Matt Giglio/700 Club, NACE (National Association of Catering Executives), Bebe Scarpinato & Chris Linwood, Jay Cooper & Gizelle Bouvier, HENA (Hospitality Education & Networking Association), Dwain Hertz & Al Dugas, Thomas Schoonenberg, Nicole Dubois, French Quarter Festivals, Inc., Glenn O'Berry & Roger Copenhaver, EGM IX Orlando Aloe/Society Page, Ron Dewhirst, Charlie Hooper, Larry Miller, Lee Worrells, Mona Lisa Restaurant, King Satyricon IV Todd Blauvelt; and Venue/In-Kind: 4 Seasons, 700 Club, Billy's, Double Play, JohnPaul's, Starlight By The Park, GrahamStudioOne.COM, Mardi Gras Productions, Glazer's Companies of Louisiana: Tito's Vodka & Barefoot Bubbly Wines. (Photo: GEP Boards Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, EGMs X Marcy Marcell and Tony Leggio, Food For Friends Director Glen Kahrman, NO/AIDS Task Force Executive Director Noel Twilbeck, and GAA Boards Tom "Rona" Conners and Opal Masters. GAA Boards Electra City and Tittie Toulouse are not pictured.) For more of the Gay Easter Parade, visit GayEasterParade.COM.

Joe “Trux” Truxillo accepts the Business Award for Society Page King Mwindo Ladarius Starr dedicates his number to all krewe members who have passed away

Don Evans accepts HIV/AIDS Prevention Award

Capt. Joe McCrory emcees the affair

18 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

1st Krewe of Mwindo Honors: Celebrating A Night in the Orient @ Show Bar of the Year JohnPaul’s ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

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Teryl-Lynn & Lisa present Dance Bar of the Year to Oz’s Tommy Elias & Persona Shoulders

Lisa Beaumann & Teryl-Lynn Foxx present Roughnecks’ Todd Henry representing Chansley Dykes of Baton Rouge & Marty Curtin with Lesbian of the Year, a tie this year.

Lisa & Teryl-Lynn present Leather Bar of the Year to Phoenix’s Bobby Connell & Wayne

Lisa & Teryl-Lynn present Toby Lefort with Gay Man of the Year

Cafe Lafitte in Exile’s DJ Myke, Jeff Palmquist, Ama Rosa & DJ Johnny Love accept Neighborhood Bar of the Year

Lisa & Teryl-Lynn present Regina Adams with Transgender of the Year

JohnPaul’s Marcy Marcell, Elizabeth Bouvier, Dennis Tudor, John Vignone & Paul Chiriaco accept Show Bar of the Year from Rip & Marsha

Alternatives’ Jack Jones & Philip Alviar accept GLBT Business of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

Princesse Stephaney accepts Bitch of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

Toby Lefort accepts Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award from Teryl-Lynn

Salon D’Malta’s Monica Thurmond & friend Earl accept Hair Salon of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

Jeff Palmquist accepts Bartender of the Year from Rip & Marsha

Gia from Baton Rouge accepts the Cheridon Comedy Award from Rip & Marsha New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus’ Rusty Downing accepts the Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award from Teryl-Lynn

snap paparazzi

Teryl-Lynn & Lisa present Gary Vandeventer with Leather Person of the Year

Halloween’s Jennifer Calzada & Jerry Fredieu accept Circuit Party/Event of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli’s Jay Verona & Miseal Rubio accept Restaurant/Deli of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

DJ Tim Pflueger accepts DJ of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

22nd Gay Appreciation Awards Gala hosted at Oz raises $3,587 for Buzzy’s Boys & Girls ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Regina Adams, Ambush, Gary Glitter

Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain present Coca & Ama Rosa with Entertainer of the Year, a tie this year

Lords of Leather Capt. David Boyd accepts Gay Carnival Ball of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

everybody's a critic by Gary Glitter E-mail: gglitter04@yahoo.com

Golden Lantern: Ringo & Christmas

hings are surely jumping at the Lantern on Wednesdays, which happens to be Ringo Night starting at 8pm. And you don’t want to miss the Ringo caller herself, Sister Mary Izahor, and you can tell by her makeup that her name is very appropriate. Of course, Sister has other duties to do besides Ringo, such as slinging drinks, and the fact that she is working with a miniature Ringo set, she sometimes has trouble reading her balls so it might take a little longer than usual. However, she does give out nice prizes, and the house seems to be packed on this night. So you might want to go check it out and see if you know who this Sister really is !!?!! Coming up on July 25th, there will be Christmas in July with food, and prizes and all kinds of specials. Hopefully we’ll get to see a hunky Santa and a few naked elves, now I know that you all would love to sit on a hunky Santa’s lap, and reach into his bag for a present. I promise that you will not want to miss out on this, who knows maybe Santa will slide down your chimney that night. Jingle my bells !!!

Miss Leatherette

t’s getting close to the Lords of Leather Miss Louisiana Leatherette Contest on August 8th at JohnPaul’s. I’m sure that the Lords have something special planned for this contest, after the great contest that they did with the “Where’s your Daddy?” at the Phoenix. Am wondering what the different categories will be? (Corset, Bondage, Whipping, Nipple Play) I’m shaking with anticipation. You know that I’ll be there to capture the whole thing on film. (And incidentally, the person that I had written about previously, that was wishing on a star will be there and I can tell you that she will most definitely will give them a run for their money. I’m rooting for you!!)

Sordid Lives & Friday Night Lights

ad the distinct pleasure to meet Liz Mikel, from Sordid Lives and Friday Night Lights on Sunday night at the Oz Show at 9pm. She happened to be seated next to me on the balcony when Blanche Debris was screaming at me about someone had ruined her steps from the night before. Miss Mikel introduced herself to me and we took some pictures (next issue), and she was telling me that she was here to do a benefit at the Le Petit Theatre on Thursday, after the showing of the new play White Noise, which is supposed to be fabulous. Miss Mikel, eventually went on stage with Blanche and talked about the benefit and she sang for the audience. Very pleasant and talented person, but she had a hard time getting a word in with Blanche, who introduced her as her old friend, but didn’t know her until I told her that she was there. But anyway, here’s

wishing Liz Mikel luck in the future, and she will be on the new second season of Sordid Lives coming up in the fall.

GAA Awards

must say that having gone to the Awards for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised at how efficiently the ceremony went, and my compliments to Teryl-Lynn Foxx and Lisa Beaumann for keeping it interesting. The ceremonies were held at Oz and the set looked great with a new backdrop that was very Las Vegas. And the crowd seemed to be very much in the moment, waiting with anticipation to see if they had won an award. All of the Show Bar Finalists, that showed up, were very good in their numbers, but the one that was late coming to the stage ended up being the best of all. That was from JohnPaul’s with Marcy Marcell’s girls doing their “Nun” number, what a hoot! I can only hope that someone video’d it, as it was too priceless. And who knew nun’s could dance, ala Sr. Regina. I must say over all that the spread of awards was quite decent, and of course not everyone is going to be happy with the out come. All of the winners were very accommodating in their acceptance speeches and some even wished the winners in there category luck in the next year. (Some thought they were being bitchy, but, they were just hoping since they won this year that that person should be the winner for next year). I was very happy to see that Coca won for Entertainer of the Year, she was most deserving. And also, that JohnPauls won for Show Bar of the Year. Congratulations to all the winners for jobs well done !

will be made as to what the theme, colors, song, poster, and sponsors will be by Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma. You can also go online to SouthernDecadence.COM and find out most the most up-to-date schedule of events. Many bars are planning on lots of special things as they feel that this will be one of the biggest years to date. Let us hope and pray that it won’t be as hot as it is now, however let it be nice and warm so we can have a fabulous parade and a big turnout of people that want to come and party. As I said last time, I want it to be hot enough. I want to see lots of naked men and I mean lots. Well, I’m off on another trip to the Windy City for Halsted St. Market Days, August 1st/2nd. This is the time of the year when the gay section of town closes down the street for 8 blocks and has a street fair dedicated to the gay life-style. They also have 4 stages that are set up that feature more than 40 musical acts, many of whom are top-name, national headliners. This year some of those acts include: Kristine

W, En Vogue, CeCe Peniston, Kathy Sledge, Jody Watley, Abba Band, Linda Clifford, Village People, and several TBA. ( Sounds like a Disco Dream come true.) I’ll be there and taking pictures and enjoying being in the heat without humidity. It will be a fast two days, but will make the rounds to see my friends and go shopping. Am meeting up with Brian Peterson, aka Sadie Shepherd, to go jewelry shopping and to have lunch at the best pizza place ever. And this time I’m going to try and take some pictures when I go through the swamps on the train. Be Cool !! And remember: “It’s not the heat, it’s the stupidity!” P.S. To Blanche Debris : Just to let you know that Sunday when you were complaining about not winning any of the GAA awards, I have found for you that the Gambit is taking a poll for the Best of New Orleans, and there are several categories you could get: Best Local Scandal, Big Easy Rollergirl, Best Tourist Activity, Best Blog, and The Best Public Spat. Good luck girl, you can work on these and by next year you might be ready for GAA. Love ya!

Welcome Alexandria, LA

ast issue forgot to welcome the new kid on the block, or in the paper, Jodi Belgrad as the new correspondent for the Olympus Bar in Alexandria, LA. Don’t know how big Alexandria is but, they are already having oil wrestling and wet underwear contests, unfortunately they don’t do that here in New Orleans they just complain. Was glad to read in your article, about C.J. Jackson’s advice and thoughts about “drag”, and I must say a person after my own heart, sometimes these “girls” just don’t get it. They don’t know how to separate the real world from the make believe. But, Jodi, who was the lesbian you were talking about with the fashion faux pas, and what exactly was she wearing????? Anyway I just wanted to welcome you to the paper, and just keep it coming in your own thoughts and words. Good luck girl.

Ramblings

on’t forget Southern Decadence is coming in the not too distant future, and on Wednesday, July 29, the announcement

DJ of the Year Tim Pflueger & Blanche Debris at Dance Club of the Year Oz

trodding the boards ...from 14 yard. Back on the main stage, Lionel Ritchie held forth for an hour and half with hit after hit. Though he started 50 minutes late (Green went over by a half hour), nobody seemed to care as that just meant the party would go on that much longer. Some might call Ritchie a bit slick but to still be an enthusiastic professional after 25+ years of being a star is no mean achievement. Radiating charisma, he seemed to be singing You Are the One, Tenderly, Stuck On You, Sail On, Running with the Night, a Commodores medley (Three Times a Lady, Easy, Just to be Close to You, etc.) and many more right to you. The only dispiriting moment of the evening was when I went to one of the Superlounges to hear the legendary gos-

pel group the Blind Boys of Alabama and there was hardly anybody there. When they came on, their leader quipped, “I can see the crowd hasn’t gotten here yet from Al Green.” Though their audience eventually grew to several dozen people, they deserved better. For the audience, however, it was like getting a private concert by musical royalty. An early morning flight forced me to leave before Maze featuring Frankie Beverly came on but I hope to be back next year to see this perennial closing night act. Two things to remember: Budget permitting, get floor seats as the performers look like ants from the loge even with the help of video screens. And no matter how hot it is outside, wear a long sleeve shirt cause they keep it COLD inside for the benefit of the performers. Otherwise, have fun. If you don’t, you’ll have no one to blame but yourself!

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Entertainer of the Year 2008 Elizabeth Bouvier joined on stage by Barbara Ella

Randy, Top 5 GLBT Business Finalist Rab Dab’s Dave, & winner Alternatives’ Philip & Jack

Top 5 Restaurant/Deli Finalist Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ

GAA Founder & Top 5 Transgender Finalist Marcy Marcell opens the gala Entertainer of the Year 2008 Nicole Foxx from Baton Rouge

snap

Max, Top 5 DJ Finalist Myke, Myke’s Mom, Scully’z Recordz’s Scott, Top 5 Hair Salon Finalist Bobby Blue’s Scott, & Myke’s Dad

Eva Las Vegas, Winston Gray & Marcy Marcell

paparazzi

GAA Board’s Lisa Beaumann & TerylLynn Foxx emcee the gala

GAA Top 5 Show Bar of Year Finalist JohnPauls’ production number

Top 5 GLBT Business Finalist Queen Fashions’ Electra City & Tittie Toulouse

Top 5 Lesbian Finalist Mae Falgout & daughter Dawn Falgout-Loebig

GAA Top 5 Show Bar of Year Finalist Oz’s production number

GAA Top 5 Show Bar of Year Finalist Parade’s production number

Don Evans accepts the 22nd Lifetime Achievement Award from the GAA Board of Directors

Darwin Reed with Gay Easter Parade Board’s Opal Masters & Rona Conners

A celeb, GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar Finalist Tubby’s Golden Lantern’s Rick & Top 5 Bartender Finalist Lance

Top 5 Neighborhood Bar Finalist 700 Club’s Mike Cookmeyer (Top 5 Gay Man Finalist)

Gay Men’s Chorus’ Rusty Downing, Lesbian winner Marty Curtin, Top 5 Lesbian Finalist Winnie Green & Koo Gaffney

Top 5 Carnival Ball Finalist Amon-Ra’s David Roget & Queen Amon-Ra XLIV Rhonda Roget

22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

22nd GAA Gala raises $3,587 for Buzzy’s Boys & Girls hosted at Oz ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Regina Adams, Ambush, Gary Glitter

Savanna DeLorean accepts Marsha Delain Award of Excellence: The Drag Ambassador Award for Christina Cayne from Rip & Marsha

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 23

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

Plenty of Events & Parties

do hope everyone is trying to stay cool during these long hot days of summer. But time has a habit of flying by and before you know it, we will be rolling into the holidays. But the summer may be hot and sticky, but it is far from boring. There are plenty of events and parties throughout the summer to keep you from becoming idle. How did you spend your Independence Day? Well for me, this Fourth of July was filled with merriment, patriotism and a little bit of decadence. All going to prove that no matter what anyone says and the problems we have in our government and economy, we are still live in one of the greatest countries in the world. My holiday started off with a bang when I attended Shep Field and Lester Perkins' Fourth of July Bash at the Palm Palace right off of Bayou St. John. This pool party and picnic was right out of the pages of Southern Living. The picnic was held in their sprawling backyard which is right on the banks of Bayou St. John. Their exquisitely manicured oasis was the perfect spot to host this event with lots of shade provided by their many trees, a beautiful breeze off the water and winding paths through their tranquil garden. The pool also provided an excellent way to cool off from the sun. The drinks flowed graciously. And the Southern home cooking feast which included fried chicken, skillet okra, Lester’s cornbread and biscuits, peach cobbler and pecan pie would have made Paula Deen envious. Who knew that Lester was a master chef. That was truly my favorite part of the afternoon was getting acquainted with new people and having a chance to catch up with people I haven’t spoken with in forever. There were so many people at this event from the gay community that I had never met before. Thanks Lester and Shep, I’ll see you next year. After my afternoon of fun in the sun, I did a quick costume change and was off to my next destination. I was joined by my friend Doctor Ben (or Curly Sue as he was affectionately dubbed by the wonderful Robin Malta) and his girlfriend Mollie as we went to fellow Ambush writer Brian Sands third floor apartment with a great view of the French Quarter. Brian celebrated the holiday by hosting an Asian inspired soiree. There was plenty of sushi, Oriental delicacies and sake to get everyone in the Independence Day spirit. At nine, everyone moved to Brian’s balcony to get a perfect view of the fireworks which illuminated the sky. I have to say that the view of the fireworks display above the rooftops of the French Quarter was memorable. After watching a pretty decent fireworks show, we continued our patriotic escapade to a party hosted by two wonderful women Beth and Pauline who moved to the French Quarter from California after retirement. To say that there home is something out of the pages of Architectural Digest is an understatement.

Martha Washington (or Barbara Bush depending on how you look at it) impression in a red, white and blue star spangled outfit that would make Betsy Ross do somersaults in her grave. Then she was followed by Bliss who did a Beyonce number in celebration of her performing at Essence that weekend. As always rounding out the cast of showgirls was the incomparable Miss Marcy Marcell, Opal Vanderhurst and Ava Sinclair. Not only was The Zoo Revue nonstop entertainment, but they had lots of “straight” boys who stumbled in from Mimi’s across the street. I love a holiday that ends in fireworks!

From Writers to Street Performers

Hottie Bartender Eric at Beth and Pauline’s Party

It was a showplace with a courtyard which was a haven unto itself complete with pool, jacuzzi and guest house. One of the highlights of the party was their hottie bartender Eric who was making watermelon mojitos. Very good, after three of them, I thought I was beginning to see my forefathers, till I realized I actually was in Good Friends. Again, at each party we met many new and interesting people. Well after doing the house party scene, I was off to Rusty LaRoux’s show at Big Daddy’s. If you have never been to Big Daddy’s in the Marigny then put it on your list. This neighborhood bar located at the corner of Royal and Franklin Streets, oozes character, as well as colorful characters. I love to go their for their show nights every other Saturday if nothing more to people watch. But Rusty’s cast of show girls always livens the crowd and this Fourth of July show was a crowd pleaser. Filled to capacity with locals, both straight and gay, the show opened with Princesse Stephaney doing her best

ew Orleans is one of the greatest cities for artists in the world. From writers to street performers, this city acts as a muse for many people. I have recently discovered a new artist living in the gay community that has combined his love for art with fashion. Philip Pizzi is the creative mind behind Cuff It Out which specializes in designer leather cuffs for men and women. Okay by discovering, I mean my friend Laura and I stumbled into Napoleon’s Itch one night and saw these great designer leather cuffs displayed behind the bar. After admiring the cuffs, we met the designer, Philip who just so happens to also be Napoleon’s Itch’s main bartender. After looking at his portfolio, he customized a cuff with the seven deadly sins, which I recently wore to the Tales of the Cocktail Seven Deadly Sins sold out party. Philip starts his process of creating these one of a kind cuffs by hand-picking the best quality hides available in the country. The evolution of his cuffs are custom in their design, cutting, tooling and finishing. All of his work are signed and numbered. My “Seven Deadly Sins” is an artist’s proof which adds to the value of having a PZ cuff. I now own two PZ cuffs and after the compliments I received on my custom piece, will definitely be adding to my collection. So stop in and check out Philip’s work at Napoleon’s Itch or Rab Dab on Royal Street. Even if you don’t buy one of his cuffs go to Napoleon’s Itch and get him to make you one of his excellent margaritas, this

man has talent. Not to mention he is very easy on the eyes. To learn more about PZ Cuffs check out his website at www.cuffitout.com.

The P-Town Murders

o you may remember a few issues ago, I talked about attending the Saints and Sinners writing conference. Well one of the writers I met was Jeffrey Round who made a splash with his debut mystery novel, The P-Town Murders. I have to recommend this book for anyone who wants a fun summer read while at the beach or on the plane while traveling. The plotline of this gay themed murder mystery is pretty basic, someone dies, hero comes in to search for clues, meets many people who all have reason for murder, then some more death and the culprit is identified. The story revolves around gay undercover agent Bradford Fairfax whose exboyfriend Ross Pretty has just died under suspicious circumstances in of all places the gay mecca Provincetown. Fairfax is sort of like a gay James Bond who works for a shadowy security section of the government. There are plenty of possible suspects which make the read even more fun. I have always loved mysteries ever since a young age when I read the Hardy Boys and Agatha Christie is one of my favorites. I highly advise reading this book on the camp factor alone from the mysterious drag queens to the over the top male bordello. This books screams mindless summer fun. Round is a accomplished writer who keeps the reader interested by interweaving pop culture and current topical gossip in his storyline. The book also contains lots of descriptive narrative on the male physique as well as a few juicy erotic scenes. The author definitely has a talent on writing about the male body. So when you are thinking about that book to lay on the beach pretending to read while gawking at the array of hot men that pass you by, may I suggest The P-Town Murders you will not be disappointed. For this book and other gay and lesbian writers, check out FAB (Faubourg Marigny Arts & Books). In a world of Borders and Barnes and Nobles, please try to support our local gay and lesbian book store. Enjoy the read.

Philip Pizzi of Cuff It Out at Napoleon’s Itch

[continued on 26]

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 25

in the spotlight by Gary Glitter E-mail: gglitter04@yahoo.com

Poker Run July 25

n July 25, there will be a Poker Run benefiting St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, 1313 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116. The goal for each bar is a challenge to collect 300 food items. Those bars participating include: John Paul’s, Phoenix, Kajun's Pub, Friendly Bar, and Cutters. The rules and information are as follows: Admission fee is to be $10 or $5 and six food items. Pre-sold tickets must be presented at JohnPauls between 1pm and 2pm July 25. All food items are to remain at the bar that collected them. Monetary donations can be made at any time throughout the Poker Run. Checks should be made out to: St. Anna’s Episcopal Church. Every dollar collected in money donations will be considered (1) food item for your home bar in the competition. Please declare the bar that you are donating through when making a money donation. The bar that collects the most food items, will be the 1st and last bar in the next poker run. Also a social gathering and food presentation will be held in that bar on Sunday, July 26 at 1pm. The other bars will provide light refreshments. The church will pick up the food from the bars on Sunday, July 26. The schedule for the Run is as follows: 1-2pm, JohnPauls, registration;

e-mail, letters Thank You For Supporting Dining Out For Life 2009

e’d like to thank everyone who made Dining Out For Life such a huge success. All of our participating restaurants were gracious hosts to huge crowds last night. Some restaurants are even reporting that it was their best year for Dining Out For Life ever. We won’t have final totals for another two weeks, but it’s already looking like this is going to be a great year for Dining Out For Life. We have to thank everyone who dined out yesterday, our participating restaurants and their amazing staffs, and our sponsors for making this event possible. We would like to ask that all year long, as you choose where to dine, you consider restaurants that participate in Dining Out For Life as a way to say thank you. You can find the list on our website: www.noaidstaskforce.com/ article.php?story=dfl.

Cover Your Assets: Take Control of Your Estate

he Planned Giving Committee of NO/AIDS is sponsoring a SIMPLE ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR on Saturday, July 25 from 10:30am to noon at the Task Force Offices, 2601 Tulane Avenue, 5th Floor. Attendees will learn the importance of writing a will, how to include your loved ones

2:05-2:50pm, Phoenix, 1st card; 2:553:40pm, Kajun's Pub, 2nd card; 3:454:30pm, Friendly Bar, 3rd card; 4:355:20pm, Cutter’s Bar, 4th card; 5:25pm end, JohnPauls, 5th card; and Bonus card(6th card can be purchased for $5 at the end of the run PRIOR to opeing of your hand. The $5 for this card is an additional donation to the food pantry. (ALL cards must be presented in the SEALED envelopes given and any OPEN envelopes will DISQUALIFY the player). All players or a representative must be present to collect the cards and present the hands. This is a bar function. The host bars generous efforts will, hopefully, restock St. Anna’s food pantry which is in great need of help. All the food and donations given will be distributed by the church in our local community. The St. Anna’s Episcopal Church endorses this event and greatly appreciates all donations in support of this fund-raiser. The Rev. William Terry encourages a fun filled event in helping assist feeding the many in need in our community. All the host bars are proud to help present a charitable event, that we know 100% of the donations will go back into our immediate local community. Please be generous and drop off your donation at one of the host bars. If you have any questions/concerns, please contact Paul at JohnPauls at 504.948.1888. and special charities in your will, and information regarding how property is distributed if there is no will. The seminar is filling up fast. To reserve your spot, or for more information, contact Heidi Chapman at 504.821.2601 ext. 203.

20th Anniversary NO/AIDS Walk

ign up today for the 20th Anniversary NO/AIDS Walk, presented by Chevron. You can sign up as an individual walker, or get a group of friends, family or co-workers together and form a team. You can register online and fundraise at www.noaidswalk.com or you can contact our team coordinator, Melissa Bishop at 504.821.2601, ext. 296 or by e-mail at teams@noaidstf.org. Registering online is easy and it allows you to reach more people for fundraising with easy to use e-mail tools and online donations. Additionally, by registering and fundraising online, you help us go green and reduce printing and postage costs. If you need any help with online registration or have any questions about this year’s walk, please contact us at walk@noaidstf.org or at 504.821.2601, ext. 218.

abOUT Magazine officially CLOSES it’s doors

t’s a sad day here at abOUT Magazine. On July 10, 2009 abOUT Magazine will end it’s day to day operations of the printed eddition of the

under the gaydar ...from 24

Tales of the Cocktail

id anyone attend any of the Tales of the Cocktail events in New Orleans this past week. If you missed them, you need to make sure you participate next year. It was an amazing week filled with attendees from across the globe that included famous bartenders, liquor distributors and manufacturers, food network celebrities and D a n n y Devito. And each party that happened was more exciting than the next. I have seen some gorgeous men in my day, but Tony Leggio with Tyran at Tales of the Cocktail Seven Deadly Sins Party

magazine. Our website www.abOUTmagazine will stay in place for the community to use as a daily source of community GLBT news. We thank everyone that has supported abOUT Magazine since it’s launch in 2008, and to the advertisers that went all the way with us. Thank you so much, --Cade Michals, Houston, Texas

Nick, Daniel & Troy at Tales Party

some of these celebrity bartenders took even my jaded breath away. And the gay quota of attendees was high. They were hot, they were happening and most of all they were drunk. Major events included a Benedictine party at Latrobe’s complete with male model monks handing out mysterious scrolls or the Beefeater party that had hot Beefeater Guards and our own Princesse Stephaney playing a London eccentric. There was also a Hornitos extravaganza at the new Mardi Gras World on the East Bank that shattered attendance records with its naughty blackboard and go go dancers on lighted cubes. Then there was the Hendrick’s gin party that had an 18 foot bar with models built atop them and a burlesque show from Los Angeles. But my favorite party was the Seven Deadly Sins party at the W on Poydras Street complete with silhouette dancers in lust, a backyard barbecue scene with models on tire swings in gluttony, and massage therapists in the Anger section. For more information on how to be a part of this event next year go to www.talesofthecocktail.com.

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27

CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

600

RAMPART

500 TOULOUSE

BURGUNDY

ROYAL

ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

400

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER

framing

Baton Rouge, LA [225] CITY NEWS STAND & VIDEO, North Blvd., 343.2606; Jones Creek, 751.7494 New Orleans, LA [504] AIRLINE ADULT BOOKS, 1404 26th St., Kenner, LA 70062; 468.2931 CHARTRES ST. CONXXXION, 107 Chartres St., 586.8006 FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 MR. BINKY'S OF KENNER, 96 West 26th St., 466.1870 PARADISE ADULT VIDEO, 41 W. 24th St., Kenner, LA 70065; 461.0000 PARADISE #2 IN ELMWOOD, 5608 Heebe, Harahan, LA, 733.7780 SLIDELLADULT SUPERSTORE, Slidell, LA, 985.646.2616

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

cable shows

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

GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300 ESPLANADE

classifieds

1800

ES TR R FR 2 A A 500 CH N K L 2 6 0 LIN YA 0 O R E LO IN UI PH SA U A D

EN 2 0 0 0 C EL H YS 210 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

RT PA M RA

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 VISION'S TWIST, 266 Dauphin St., 431.9002, visions-mobile.com Foley, AL [251] CLUB EVOLUTION, 8380 Highway 59, 251.943.5557, myspace.com/ evolutionclubdance1 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Alexandria, LA [318] OLYMPUS BAR, 4003 MacArthur Dr., 442.6735, OlympusBar.COM Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, GeorgesPlaceBR.COM HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Road, 242.9491, splashbr.com Lafayette, LA [337] BACK SIDE, 209 Jefferson St., 269.0430 THE SOUND FACTORY, 209 Jefferson St., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457

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

casinos

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

bars

florists

bookstores

1100

New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, M.Ed., Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000 WILLIAM C. AUSTIN, LCSW, Individual & Family Therapy, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LA Lic # 8042, 1532 Ursulines Ave., 504.586.7400, 225.571.5964

1000 URSULINES

counseling

900 ST. PHILIP

M AR IG NY

Baton Rouge, LA [225] JDiT NETWORKING SOLUTIONS, Jerry Durden, 229.6108, JDiT.US

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

ST. ANN

DUMAINE

body rubs

computers

New Orleans, LA [504] MASCULINE TOP STUD FOR AWESOME BODY RUBS & MORE 6'0, 178#, w/magic hands & hard gun. 6am-mid. Fantastic 4 hand session avail. In/Out/Hotels. Call Charlie 504.430.7413 [is1509]

ORLEANS

800

RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St., 373.5431, NOLAJungle.COM SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156 STARLIGHT BY THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 561.8939, StarlightByThePark.COM TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860 Shreveport, LA [318] CENTRAL STATION, 1025 Marshall St., 222.2216 KORNER LOUNGE, 800 Louisiana, 71101; 222.9796 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, www.4seasonsno.com CLUB TRIBUTE, 3202 N. Arnoult Rd., 455.1311, myspace.com/clubtribute New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM ALL-WAYS LOUNGE, 2240 St. Claude, 218.5778 BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450, NapoleonsItch.COM OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, PhoenixNewOrleans.COM RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM

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 [is1709]

circuit/events Sept. 2-7, 2009, 38th Official Southern Decadence-A Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2009, Halloween 26, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 30, 2009-Jan. 3, 2010, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 12-16, 2010, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 27-31, 2010, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM June 3-6, 2010, One Mighty Weekend,. Orlando, Florida, sponsored by Ambush, OneMightyWeekend.COM

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

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

guides

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

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

laundries New Orleans, LA [504] RALPH'S QUARTER LAUNDERETTE & DRY CLEANING, 1101 Bourbon St., 522.9274 WASHING WELL LaunDRYteria since 1949, City Wide Pick-up, Fluff Dry or Finished, 1 Hour Service, 841 Bourbon St., 523.9955 or 525.3983 [is1309]

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

lodging/accommodations 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. [0809] CRESCENT PALMS MOTEL, 3923 Martin Luther King Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70125; PHONE: 504.821.7773, FAX: 504.267.7366, CrescentPalmsMotel.COM, E-mail us at crescentpalmsmotel@yahoo.com. The Crescent Palms Motel is located in the heart of New Orleans, minutes from the French Quarter and other famous attractions. Our newly renovated, vintage motel offers 24 spacious guest rooms, large bathrooms, ample closet space, a cocktail lounge and complimentary off-street parking. Each room features two brand new double beds, complimentary high-speed wireless internet, a refrigerator and more. Please come visit soon! [1109]

DECADENCE PARTY TIME 7 night stay at Club Le Pension, New Orleans French Qtr. One bedroom suite sleeps 4 with full kitchen. Check in 9/4, Check out 9/11 - $900.00, www.clublapension.com - call 719.576.3465 for details. [1509] 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. [0110] 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

massage New Orleans, LA [504] PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY By Patrick LMT - Outcall or Uptown Studio. Safe neighborhood, comfortable studio. Towels available for draping, Non-Sexual, 717.2577, www. n e w o r l e a n s . a m a z i n g h a n d s . u s , Discounts for: Friends of Dorothy, Students, Artists, Service Industry, License #LA4005 [is1509] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website www.righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2-10]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay

New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: info@ ambushmag.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: info@ambushonline.com

models/escorts New Orleans, LA [504] MIKEY/NUMBER 1 MALE ESCORT IN NOLA-hot, cute muscle stud, pics at m4rn.com, ID #190508, friendly & discreet. In/Out/Hotels. Body rubs & 4 hands avail. 7 days, 6am-11pm. 504.756.9443 [is1509]

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTSAND 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

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Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINEWELLSMARDIGRASMUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEECONTIHISTORICALWAXMUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERNART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm

ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

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 THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO

Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITANCOMMUNITYCHURCHOF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE 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]

ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 828.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday 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 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

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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, 2511 Bayou Road, Suite B, 70119; Office: 504.962.3245, Fax: 504.962.3246; 962.3245, www.inthistogetherinc.org, michael@ittnola.org 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, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 71665, 70172, Pres. Arthur Alarcon 451.9507, Capt. Bill McCarthy 430.6695 http:// kreweofpetronius.tripod.com KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/ KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LESBIAN & GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF NEW ORLEANS, 2114 Decatur St., 701162013; 945.1103, Fax 945.1102, Email: info@lgccno.net LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 770435, New Orleans, LA 70071-4035, LordsOfLeather.COM LOUISIANA STATE GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (LSGRA), 915.3339, lance@lsgra.com, LSGRA.COM MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS, Sunday Friendship Hour 4:15pm, Worship/Celebration, 5pm at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 Carrollton Ave. at Willow; Mailing Address: PO Box 71024, 70172; 945.5390, www.mccgno.com MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, 1021 Gov. Nicholls St., 70116, 525.4498, MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM N'R Peace, 3201 Gen. DeGaulle Dr., Suite 201, 70114, 364.1950 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 PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for

PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 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! 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

pets New Orleans, LA [504] CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 511 Dumaine; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845 DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455

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

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

plumbers New Orleans, LA [504] AVALON PLUMBING, residential & commercial repair & remodeling, call Michael 237.0888 RAMSEY PLUMBING, repairs, repipe, sewer & drain cleaning, water heaters, disposals, 296.6865

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

real estate New Orleans, LA [504] JUDY FISHER, INC. REALTORS, Agent Mary Lind, 874.4905, marylind2020@gmail.com PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Brett A. Rector, Cell: 453.2277, Office: 861.6400, brettinla@aol.com PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Cathy Espenan, Cell: 344.2116, Office: 861.7575

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ,3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965 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 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Magazine Perks, 4332 Magazine, 899.2911, MagazinePerks.COM Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, 948.7401, MarignyPerks.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100

hot tails of red stick by Brad Benedict E-mail: bradhottails@hotmail.com

The Long, Hot Summer

t is that time of the year when most guys and gals head for beaches, islands, or hiking in the mountains. Louisiana has been rather uncomfortable for a while now, and it is looking like a cool down may be coming, but a cool down here means getting out of the 90s. It’s still hot and really miserable. Red Stick’s local bar scene helps with the cool downs too. There is just nothing better than an ice cold beer at happy hour. Of course, we all know to drink Bourbon St. , 529.1416

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] ALTERNATIVES, 907 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.5222 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 QUEEN FASHIONS, QueenFashions.COM 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 TOP DRAWER ANTIQUES, 4310/18 Magazine St., TopDrawerAntiques.NET

spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539] SPA ATLANTIS PROFESSIONAL SPA & SALON, 740 Gravier St., 566.8088, SpaAtlantis.NET

tattoos/piercings New Orleans, LA [504] AARTACCENT 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

plenty of water too, especially during and after any period of time that has been spent outside. Our weather has made it a two to three-bath daily ritual, which is okay, but plenty of foo-foo water gets the senses going too, and this is needed when going into crowds. Otherwise, it just might be sweat central, and that is not a good thing unless you are doing something to really work up that sweat attack. Swimming pools, both public and private, are packed every day, and the suntan oils are needed to keep down any skin damage. Even then, we all need to keep tabs on the length of time spent in the outdoors. A sunburn today may cause hidden damage that won’t show up until way into the future. I can recall that time when I worshiped the rays and spent hours with friends at beaches and pools. When attending college, I can even recall standing in the back of a moving pickup truck while the hot Texas air engulfed my body. For pool or beach, bikinis were the thing if you wanted a good tan. It looked nice and was really quite sexual to possess such a healthy looking body with a skimpy white area to show what the bikini covered. That was the style then and quite different from today. Of course, we didn’t mind stripping off at all in the locker rooms either. Whether you are trying to keep cool in old Red Stick or on a beach or island somewhere, just be careful. Keep the skin covered with sunscreen, and know your limit. It’s great to have a good time with friends, but use caution when it comes to damage to your body. By all means, enjoy the time and the place and the people you might be with. Take care of yourself.

Catching Up Is Hard To Do

try to touch base with as many people as possible to keep up with what’s going on in the great city of Baton Rouge. Whether it’s having a drink at one of the local pubs, or just meeting friends at the Farmers Market or while shopping or dining, I seek out the news so as to keep you updated on the latest. It is with sadness that I send out condolences to Todd Cole in the loss of his mother. I e-mailed as many of our mutual friends as I could recall, but I’m sure I missed a lot of people. I was on Facebook when Todd’s note came across. This is a very trying period for anyone to have to go through, and I hope in some way that it has brought the family members closer together through love and understanding. Sam has just returned from Florida along with Kyle, who drove the big truck back with the antique bed and furnishings. It will mean lots of new things for Sam’s antique business, but I’m not sure where he will put all this new stuff. His place is packed now so hopefully he will have a big sale soon to clear some of his things out. As with lots of other people, retirement sometimes means even more work than that old job presented. The [continued on 36]

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Richard with Hound Dogs’ Johnny

red stick paparazzi Luther and Splash’s Miss Trixxie

Todd and Mike at George’s

Studs & Sweethearts ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Adorable Andy with stud muffin Ronnie

Three studs and a cutie sweetheart It’s an LSU thing

Rick and Tom

Having fun at George’s

Some studly bears Another happy trio Michael and Lesbian of the Year Chansley

Bar barons Jeff and Richard

Splashers Ty, Stephen and Friend Don and Tom Handsome studs out on the town

Studly bartenders Michael and Luther

Cody poses with a gorgeous stud

Miss Mark and her Jimmy

Michael and Tim

Casey does karaoke

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alexandria, olympus style Hanging Out

A Message from Olympus

by Jodi Belgard t’s Monday afternoon at Olympus Bar, and a handful of folks tired from a hard day’s work and rested from a weekend of play, are hanging out at the bar having a few drinks. Sounds of the Megatouch machine and the quiet clicking of pool balls are the backdrop. Not to worry, though. The jukebox is ready and willing to get the party started. The good thing about small towns is the one thing that makes them inherently bad – everybody knows everybody. In this case, knowing a guy to work on the general maintenance of the bar has led to Olympus’ status as “home bar” for a new group in town – the Central Louisiana Bear Association. A couple of Alexandria guys were inspired by a weekend at Dallas Pride to start up a group for happily furry, masculine guys – the Central Louisiana Bear Association. David Carson and his partner Harry Beverly will host the group’s first meeting at 5pm, August 2 at Olympus Bar – another step on the way to shifting the dynamic of Alexandria’s gay scene. The addition of Central Louisiana Bear Association proves there’s room for everyone in Alexandria, and Olympus Bar works tirelessly to give them all a home. Shreveport stage legends Dominique DeLorean and Marsheya St. Clair have made Olympus their home away from home. Marsheya won Miss Gay Central Louisiana a couple of weeks ago, and she’ll soon be going on to compete for the title of Miss Gay Louisiana. The location of the pageant is yet to be determined, but we trust that you’ll show up with a pocketful of money in support. Even though gay marriage may not be legal in Louisiana, it sure as hell won’t stop love. Olympus Bar will be home to its first lesbian wedding July 25. Congratulations, Dee and Angela! The celebration will continue until the wee hours of the morning with a reception and a drag show. Speaking of shows, the lovely ladies of Olympus Bar are working on huge production – a Broadway show, complete with set design and props. Stereotype or not, gay guys love Broadway! In August, be on the lookout for a return performance by the legendary Kofi. She brought down the house with her last performance, and the next is sure to do the same. Dann and Eric are working overtime to bring a very special guest to Olympus – one that is sure to put the bar on the map. But don’t ask, because I won’t tell. It’s in the early stages.. All I will say is that when and if this lady enters the room, no one will wonder where Alexandria is ever again. And, the next time you see Dann, be sure to wish him a belated birthday. He celebrated the big Three-Oh July 14. Give him a hug, buy him a drink and let him know he’s appreciated as one of guys who brought a new gay bar to Central Louisiana.

omething new is happening in the central Louisiana gay community! We’re forming the first ever Central Louisiana Bear Association to bring together men of all types who appreciate bears, cubs, grizzlies, and masculinity in all its forms. What is a bear? A simple explanation is that Bears are big hairy gay guys! BUT Bears come in all shapes, sizes, ages, and furriness. So, being a bear is not just about looks and external qualities. A better answer includes the fact that being a Bear is also about character, attitude, and internal qualities. What Bears have most in common are: *big hearts that easily embrace others, *strength to lend a helping hand when needed, *independence in thought and action, and most of all *a playful and fun-loving outlook on life. Oh, and bears love to eat! Good food always fosters good fellowship among bears! The Central Louisiana Bear Association hopes to promote community among gay men of this type throughout the state, and in particular those living within a couple of hours drive of Alexandria. Our Facebook page (Cenla Bears) will help us stay informed and in touch with Bears with similar interests by providing a convenient network to contact each other and share pictures/videos from Bear events. You can join up with us now by requesting a friend link with Cenla Bears on Facebook. With I-49, US167, US165, US71, and LA28 all converging here, Alexandria is an ideal place for us to gather for monthly meetings. Olympus Bar will be hosting our monthly meetings and various other events. Easily accessible, Olympus Bar (4003 MacArthur Drive, Alexandria, LA 71302) is located one mile off I-49, when you take Exit 80 (MacArthur Drive Exit). Other events will be planned throughout the central Louisiana area – Natchitoches, Opelousas, Leesville, Marksville, as well as in Alexandria. Cookouts and barbecues, camping weekends, day trips, Mardi Gras parades/floats, volunteering and fund-raising for worthwhile causes and charities, bowling or movie nights, and beer busts are among the activities being considered. You can have a voice in deciding what we do! Join us and share your ideas and enthusiasm! To get it all started, we invite you to participate in the organizational meeting on Sunday, August 2, at 5pm. We will plan activities for August through the rest of the year, select an official logo from several designs, discuss the association’s structure and membership responsibilities, submit ideas for charity causes to support, and most of all, get to know each other over pizza and beer. We will finish business by 6:30 or 7 to accommodate those who may have a bit of a drive to return home. Of course Olympus Bar is happy to host those bears wishing to linger longer into the night! For more information, check the Notes on Cenla Bears Facebook page or e-mail CenlaBears@gmail.com.

Southern Decadence SouthernDecadence.COM

paparazzi

Central Louisiana Bear Association

Twister night at Olympus

Miss Olympus looking fierce Bartender John David’s Birthday

Marsheya St. Clair crowned Miss Gay Central Louisiana America Lucenda Majors “you want me don’t you??!!”

Owners Dann & Eric with Marsheya St. Clair

Miss Sable’s first appearance at Olympus

Miss Gay Louisiana America Anastacia Davenport

Lucenda Majors goes to “Rehab”

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Pageants, Birthdays & Entertainment at Olympus Bar ~ Alexandria, Louisiana

alexandria

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hot tails of red stick ...from 32 difference is that in this way, you become your own boss, and that is so nice and enjoyable. The July 4th holiday meant a big gathering at John and Mike’s place in Denham Springs. These guys are resting up now on that beach in Florida, so they apparently recovered from the “fun activities” around that pool. I keep missing these events because of other work-related activities, but I’m about to take off somewhere and kick up my heels some. Maybe I’ll head over to the family condo in Florida overlooking the Gulf. My dog will love the trip and being able to run along the beach or play in the surf. Hopefully, no hurricanes will ruin the scene. Robert and Brandon scurried up to New York again for another Broadway play. Both of these guys are constantly on the go but at the same time keep things current on the expanding home front. They are updating the neighborhood yet keeping the historic value intact, quite unlike the butt wipes that want to build that outrageous apartment complex across from

the Arsenal Museum in Spanish Town. Tearing down some historic structures to build a modern apartment complex does not meet with the needs of this historic part of the city. House hunting and even home acquisitions are the two things that many people are taking advantage of these days. Sometimes it is local. At other times, it is out of the city. BCBoy is about to take the big leap and become a homeowner. This wonderful lad is one of the most deserving studs I know, and I am so proud of him. I’ve watched him over the years and have a keen understanding of how much this means to him. I also admire a guy who takes care of an older loved one too. This guy stands tall in my book. Acadiana Kenny is another big stud too – in more ways than one. I don’t get to see him that often any more, but he is always in my thoughts. We talk on Facebook and keep up with each other by e-mail and sometimes by phone. It just doesn’t work out for us to see each other that often, and that’s a bummer. Maybe we can get together over dinner one of these days. I hear Acadiana calling to me.

Getting out to meet people isn’t as simple as it sounds. Everyone has something to do, and it is nice when schedules give way so that meetings can be arranged. This past weekend saw a Mexican dinner outing get canceled, so now things are in the works to try again. I speak of the on-again, off-again plans between me, John, and Phil, with others in the picture too. We used to all gather at El Rio Grande Restaurant and feast on great Mexican food and drink those dynamic margaritas, but times change. Jobs change. People move. Work schedules get in the way. It’s just a hectic world we live in, and it all seems to get busier and busier as we go along. I need to get back to Pastor Keith over at MCC and will probably just have to drop what I’m doing and head over there sometimes. I might even convince him to dine with me since the church is located so close to El Rio Grande Restaurant. I just now realized that. I’ll give him a call soon. I certainly hope he won’t mind that I do sip those nice margaritas periodically. David over at Splash continues to look forward to the day when he will be free of all those legal maneuvers taking place in his life. I really like this guy. He is simply one of the most sincere individuals I’ve ever met, and he is really quite sexy too. I need to tell him that, but I have the feeling he knows it but doesn’t flaunt it. All I can say is if you’ve got it, flaunt it. Are you reading this, sweetheart? Gerry has been beach-going too. Right now, he is resting up from his last jaunt over Florida way, and here is someone else who keeps really busy. This is another great guy who deserves to be recognized for his masterful work agendas and the way he cares for an elderly loved one. He is a devoted son, and I see so much kindness in him. Another David is my orchid-loving acquaintance. He got special coverage in the local paper last week for all the great efforts he puts into raising these beautiful flowers. Somewhere along the way, he finds time to do that real estate thing with other half Will. These two guys make such a beautiful couple. I really like them and enjoy their company even though it doesn’t happen too often. I also noticed Danny’s picture in the paper too in regards to his work with the local hibiscus group. This hard-working stud is a master at anything he tackles, and like so many others, he manages to relax by working with plants and keeping his lawn and garden in immaculate condition. Jean has really got her home in tip-top shape. That newly designed porch has definitely improved her property. I see many late night parties taking place there. Scott keeps adding beautiful plants to his garden. He hasn’t lived in Spanish Town very long, but you can certainly see the difference since he moved into the area. This is another of those very nice guys that you don’t hear too much about. I’ve known Scott for a number of years, and I saw great qualities in his personality and caring ways from the time of that very first meeting. He seems to have gotten better with age, and it is always a pleasure to be in his company. I only talked to her briefly while she was out walking her dog, but Claudette keeps making the neighborhood a lovely place in which to live. Along with Debbie, they are always out keeping their lawn and neighboring lawns quite attractive. Josie is another who really knows how to charm you with her great personality. Whether you are at a party with her or just meeting her on the street, you know you are in the presence of someone very nice and kind. Barry is enjoying his new apartment. He lives on one corner of the block, and he works on the opposite corner. I’m glad things worked out so well for him. He at least has a better landlord. It is always nice to go to Tsunami and see “happy guys and gals” dining and admiring the view from the 6th floor of the Shaw Center for the Arts. One of my favorite places to dine in the city is Tsunami, and it is so nice to be there to see the sun set over the Atchafalaya Basin. The only other place that I’ve enjoyed the sunsets more is in Key West. That sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico is just so spectacular. Small things sometimes mean more than the large ones, and I’m not talking about body parts here. Think about it. How many of the smaller things in life do you just take for granted? Let me tell you a few, and see if you agree. Sitting in a porch swing and enjoying the light breeze of early evening is nice. Walking around the downtown area and looking up to see the light shining down on Huey P. Long’s gravesite is an awesome view, especially as those flags flutter in the breeze at the top of the State Capitol. I find the sounds of church bells on Sunday morning such a pleasant thing, and sometimes the calliopes on the riverboats break through with charming sounds. Streetcars on St. Charles Avenue going by church on a Sunday morning in New Orleans is nice too. On a foggy morning, the sound of those horns on the river is really eerie and brings back memories of the time when that ferry collision took place near where I was living at the time. It’s also nice to just listen to the sounds of the birds, [continued on 37]

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

allons acadiana by Chris Perkins, Lafayette, Louisiana E-mail: keebler_6984@yahoo.com

A Recap

ith the month of July almost complete, we turn our eyes to the fall months ahead, which in Louisiana simply means, more heat. August brings back school and many other things from sports to more traveling, to even more partying. We all look forward to the month of September for Southern Decadence, but before I get too far ahead of myself, let me stop and recap a bit of what has happened in Lafayette through July. Just for starters, it was definitely a hot month, not just in the ridiculous heat, but a certain bar downtown was smoking hot, from the drink specials to the amount of people that filled the place, just to see what was being done by the new management team, and the wonderful staff. Yes, you know exactly where I am talking about, The Sound Factory. With happy hour all day on Mondays, and a Karaoke night where you can get a different drink special every thirty minutes for fifteen minutes has been driving people crazy. Their first Drag Bingo night was hilarious and totally entertaining with shots just given away, and people having to do on-the-spot drag, what more would you want on a Thursday night? A 4th of July Pageant to crown their new 2009-2010 Mr. and Miss Sound Factory was another one of the many amazing nights that has come from Sound Factory just in the past few weeks. Mr. Kardarius Black and Miss Ambrosia McNeil are now our 2009-2010 Mr. and Miss Sound Factory. Just this past Saturday, Sound Factory hosted its first ever RED Party with a Best Dressed Red Contest. It was another one of those nights that if you missed it, you missed everything.

This coming Friday, July 24, they are hosting their first ever Bear Night, Bears on the Back Side, with the Hairiest Chest Contest at 11 and many other specials up that you will just have to be there to see. Also, the same night, on Sound Factory's side, Laurel and her Band return for the first time since the new management team has taken over, so you can be sure to find something to please you that night, all you have to do is be there. So with many other things happening downtown, be sure to stay

up-to-date, for there will always be something going on that you will surely enjoy, and if you miss out on anything, keep your eyes on this article as I will try to remember all the fun and excitement so I can share with you. Until next time, have fun, be safe, and words from Macky and Chris, “Y’all ain't seen nothing yet!!!”

cially if they are so big that you can use them as weapons. Earrings can also be one of those items that can say “elegant” or “whoa”. All of these items are supposed to be used to “enhance” and “compliment” your look, and to add a touch of beauty to your style of dress, don’t abuse them or they will totally “trash” you. Just like hair and make-up, no one thing that you wear is supposed to stand out like a neon sign, it’s all supposed to blend and make a complete picture. You know what they say about perfume? It’s not supposed to get there 5 minutes before you do. I have been out and about and I have seen so many of you that have the potential to be absolutely beautiful, but I just get the impression that sometimes you just don’t care and that’s sad considering you are trying to make a name and a living with your looks and what you are attempting to do. In this type of business, you have got to make a decision as to what is important to you, and then to make up your mind that nothing or anyone is going to keep you from your goal! Don't forget, there will always be someone that is younger, prettier, and willing to do whatever it takes to get what “they” want, but, if you are a true “diva” and have learned the ropes, you will last forever. You must remember that this is a “lifestyle”, IF you are serious about living this way, it will take guts and determination. Well, your old Aunty Ida is just about “steamed” out, and has done enough preaching for this time. Take it from someone who has been around a loooooong time, it’s not easy being the woman you want to be, it takes a lot of hard work and a lot of studying to achieve your goals. Next time we’ll talk about “practicing” our skills

and mannerisms. But, for now have to go, I got a new pet, one of those wrinkly dogs, her name is “Princess Prunella”, after a “diva” that I know here, and we have to go for a short walk. Til next month...I’m watching you!!!

drag 101 by Ida Slapter E-mail: ida_slapter00@yahoo.com

Making A "Good" Diva the Lady She Needs to Be

ello again, my little drags and dragsters, down here in the steamy swamps of New Orleans. My dears, I certainly can tell you that the heat here is very similar to the heat of an African safari, not to mention the rains that come and go so quickly that you hardly have a chance to cool down before the humidity is back up and slapping you in the face. Thank God I have had everything lifted and tightened or everything would be down around my knees. Last time we talked, we discussed hair and body, now we need to mention all the necessary little things that make a “good” diva the lady she needs to be. Once we have all the basics down and together, we need to decide what type of look we are going for and what we need to do to get that look. Do you want to be the “diva” that just throws herself together carelessly, or are you the “diva” that takes her time and effort to get her “look” just so, like she just stepped out of a fashion magazine??? Sometimes when we are getting ready and think that we did a good job, we need to take a step back and take a second look to see exactly what we have or have not done. You need to take that extra

5 minutes to look and “finish” what you have done, with that extra touch to your make-up, hair, outfit, etc, that will give you the added pizzazz to make your look totally “flawless”. Too many times we are in such a rush that we overlook what is the obvious, and ultimate goal, and that is to present yourself as a real woman. But, sometimes the look just isn’t there through our own negligence, and that is sad after all we put ourselves through. Of course, the crowning glory is when we do go out and we are perceived as being “real” and are complemented on how glamorous or beautiful we are, then we know that we have done our work, and studied our craft to the best of our abilities. Only then can we pat ourselves on the back knowing that we have achieved what we set out to do. But, we can never let down our guard and will “forever” have to keep studying to maintain ourselves in the “illusion” of what we have become. With that said, I have a few more tidbits to tell you: Don’t over do the jewelry, one necklace is sufficient, two or three is “gaudy”. Same goes for bracelets. If you want big jewelry, get something that is not over powering, but tasteful. Rings, also can be very overbearing when you wear more than one or two on each hand, espe-

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

hot tails of red stick ...from 36 the distant music coming from an open window, and the sound of an ambulance siren or police siren in the distance brings on a chill of what might have happened. A dog barking at night gives you a sense of danger. The sound of falling raindrops is pleasing. That clean smell of rain is wonderful, and the smell of steaks being cooked in a neighbor’s yard or the sound of a child playing with a friend are pleasing in so many ways. The aroma of coffee brewing, the sounds of winds howling on a cold night, or just a smile from a friend are so very nice to behold. Many things are taken for granted. We only realize what we have lost when they are no longer there. This makes us all human, and sometimes we forget how to give thanks for what we have. Take time out in your life to look up at the sky and give thanks for another day.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

Belinda Botox, SF’s MC

acadiana

Big T is on a roll as she keeps coming back to perform

I'm done!!! Can I get a bourbon 'n water with lemon PLEASE!!!

So beautiful, please don’t leave him…lol

Yes, people standing from wall to wall on the 4th of July Work it out miss thang…

Can u find yourself in there?

Another shot lookin’ for the queen, can u see her

Some people look so confused

Alexis Michael, a contestant for the pageant

These gents are just having a blast

Now ain’t that just a beautiful sight

TTL, bartending the Back Side, smile big Tony There is a drag queen up there some where How ‘bout this one, see yourself now?

Always time to stop for a pic

Aww, sha…

Miss Sound Factory 2009-2010 Ambrosia McNeil

Big Gurls new trick, what do u think ‘bout his hair?

38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Confused, Beautiful, Attitude ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins

paparazzi

Looks like someone had diva attitude turned ON

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 39

Good Friends manager Neel host the annual July 4th Chicken Drop

Clover Grill’s CJ tries to swallow his giant b-day cake whole at 700 Club

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Long time friends JJ (from Birmingham) & Rawhide bartender Emanuel at Rawhide’s Chuckwagon Cookout

JohnPaul’s Paul joins the LSGRA cookout at Cutter’s

She’s ready to drop & make a lot of winners at Good Friends Mike & Scott celebratin’ Scott’s b-day at 700 Club

Rawhide manager Joe joins Good Friends manager Neel for Rawhide’s Chuckwagon Cookout

4th of July party host & master chef Lester Perkins at Palm Palace

Jake & Blake with no guns & bullets at Good Friends Bar

Society Page’s Trux & Orlando join Lola for 700 Club’s Independence Picnic

July 4th party host, Ambush’s own Brian Sands

Shane takes 1st place in Good Friends Sack Race

LSGRA 4th of July Cookout hosted by Cutter’s

It’s finger-lickin’ good fried chicken with Jeff, Josh & Aletha at Lafitte’s

Lafitte’s Baton Twirling Contest winners: 1st Jonathan Passion, 2nd Charlie, 3rd Mike & MC Marvin

Princesse Stephaney in Zoo Revue’s 4th of July Show at Big Daddy’s

Bar Baron Mike serves up Cookie’s Independence Picnic with home fried chicken at 700 Club

700 Club bartender Paul with his own personal dessert

Mr. LSGRA Denny Summors serves up BBQ at LSGRA cookout at Cutter’s

Beth Ann & Jason at the W Hotel with Laura Tennyson for Tales of the Cocktail Party

40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

4th of July ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

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GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 41

ambush

Rusty LaRoux host The Zoo Revue at Big Daddy’s

Lester & Anthony flank the Girls of Atlanta at Big Daddy’s Zoo Revue

French Quarter Icon, Aletha, out & about with celeb photographer Larry Graham at JohnPauls

Roger & Glenn celebrate Regina’s (c) birthday blowout at Starlight Robert as Marie Antoinette for Friendly Bar’s Bastille Day celebration raising $800 for Buzzy’s Boys & Girls

Marcy joins Pat & Sylvia for Bastille Day at The Friendly Bar

Todd selling raffle tickets raising $800 for Buzzy’s Kids at The Friendly’s Bastille Day blowout

Dallas, Texas’ Bill & Adam join Regina & Marcy for Regina’s b-day blowout

Lesbian of the Year Marty Curtin joins Alice Brady who will be celebratin’ her 82nd b-day at The Friendly on July 31st

Top 5 Gay Carnival Ball winner Lords of Leather’s Ken at the GAA Gala

Bartender Ashlee, Alex & Miller’s Ribs’ David at The Corner Pocket

Barbara, David & Thomas cocktailin’ at Good Friends Bar

Stephanie Lee & Top 5 Transgender Finalist Dee Cooley at the GAA Gala

Kyle, Regina, Princesse & Justin celebrate Regina’s b-day at Starlight

Golden Age Revue’s Zsa Zsa D’LaHor at Oz for the GAA Gala Steve celebrates his b-day at The Friendly Bar

Rudy, FourPlay's Cathy Fox & Josie Mae at Oz for the GAA Gala

Dwian & Al pop in for the GAA Gala at Oz

Crescent City Outlaws’ Nan & Mina, & Society Page’s Joe at the GAA Gala

Rona Conners entertainin’ the men as Marsha looks on at Lafitte’s following the 1st Mwindo Honors

42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Around the Big Easy ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Regina Adams, Al & Dwian, Ambush, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio

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

New Orleans Restaurant Guide Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St., is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hours are 9am-9pm Mon.-Fri., and Sat. & Sun. Closed Wed. Call 944.4445 for additional info. MasterCard/Visa accepted. Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., offers romantic courtyard or indoor dining along with both eclectic culinary creations and drinks. Serving lunch and dinner, Wed.Sat. 11am-9pm, Sun. brunch 10am-3pm and special Lundi Gras opening 11am3pm.. Call 412.8965 for reservations or additional information. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Call 598.1010 or visit CloverGrill.COM. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St. Under the new direction of Chef Coy LeBeau, he has taken attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am-10pm 7 days and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM or call 945.0742 for more information. 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. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers. Open 7 days from 11am10pm, call 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am-5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days. Call 522.6746 for 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.

Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) at Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.

New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) at Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.

Eggplant Crab Benedict (fried eggplant topped with crabmeat, poached egg & hollandaise) on the weekend brunch menu at Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St.

(left) Blackened Ribeye with pecan butter, corn pudding & black-eyed peas at The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.

(right) Roasted "Maple Farms" Duck Breast with a warm orange vinaigrette over mashed potatoes and haricots verts at Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St.

Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) at Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 43

44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 21-August 3, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM