Ambush magazine volume 27 issue 20 by Ambush Publishing

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 1

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 3

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

Decadent Ducks Donate Almost $1,800 to Food For Friends from SD Trip

he Decadent Ducks have flown the coop, but not before donating almost $1,800 to Food For Friends, a division of NO/ AIDS Task Force. The Ducks are a travel and social network, celebrating their 12th year attending Southern Decadence. This year, they arrived with 275 members in tow, but took time out of the weekend revelry to raise money for a great cause.

members from all over the world. This year, members traveled to New Orleans from as far away as France, the UK and Spain, and though this year’s event just ended, Richardson is already making plans for next year. “I could schedule a whole month in New Orleans, and still not do and see everything.That’s why we keep coming back. The possibilities are endless.” You can learn more about the Decadent Ducks at www.decadentducks.com.

Satyricon Sponsors Opening Night of Andrea Sings Movies

Decadent Ducks member Michael McMurtrey, Food For Friends Program Manager Glen Kahrman & Ducks organizer Troy Richardson present Decadent Ducks donation to Kahrman.

The leader of the Ducks, Troy Richardson, called this year’s annual festival the best ever. “After 2008, I think everyone was ready to have a good time and just be grateful for a beautiful weekend in New Orleans.” In addition to the fund-raiser for Food For Friends held at the Omni Royal Orleans, Richardson organized a plantation tour for members of the group, a special lunch at BACCO and several events at 700 Club, the official bar of the Decadent Ducks. “We want to make sure all our members are out there, having a good time, enjoying everything the city has to offer, putting money back into New Orleans,” Richardson says. “It’s a busy weekend overall, but we’re always looking for more to do, more to offer the group.” The weekend culminated in a tour of the NO/AIDS Task Force facilities and the Food For Friends center of operations. The Ducks were impressed with the scope and range of services offered by the Task Force. “It’s a huge undertaking,” Richardson observes. “They do amazing work, and we’re grateful they took the time to show us around.” The Ducks organize several trips throughout the year, including excursions to Las Vegas and Cancun, but Southern Decadence is their biggest event of the year, attended by group

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon will sponsor, as a benefit for the krewe, the opening night of New York Cabaret diva Andrea Marcovicci’s new cabaret show, Andrea Sings Movies, at Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Avenue, on Thursday, October 1 at 8pm. Tickets for this performance only are $30.

Petronius Oktoberfest Oct. 2

he Krewe of Petronius Oktoberfest will feature the Petronius Fraulein Cabaret starring Princesse Stephaney on Friday, October 2, 8pm, at JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields. Look for the Best Creatively Adorned or Naturally Stuffed Lederhosen Contest with a $100 cash prize for both the Best Male and ”Female”. There will be a $5 donation Beer Bust.

Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest Oct. 17 at World Famous Oz Nightclub

he Mr. Louisiana Leather 2010 contest weekend activities have been announced by the Lords of Leather, and will occur at several venues in and around the French Quarter.

All activities are intended to celebrate the Louisiana Leather community and will culminate in the selection of this year’s representative for International Mr. Leather in Chicago during Memorial Day (May/ 2010). Events begin Friday night, October 16, at the notorious Phoenix Bar with a Beer Bust and Contestant Meet and Greet. The Saturday night, October 17, contest will be held at world famous Oz nightclub located at 800 Bourbon Street at 8pm. Admit donation is $15. On Sunday, October 18, Brunch will be hosted at John Paul’s to conclude an exciting Leather weekend. Download contestant applications, and contestant information sheets at LordsOfLeather.COM.

Elysian Fleas Set to Launch in the Heart of Faubourg Marigny October 11

reat news, vintage mavens and NOLA arts appreciators! The Marigny is getting its very own flea market and arts bazaar. Sponsored by Old New Orleans Rum and presented by Artist Inc., Elysian Fleas will be held in the shady, tree-lined courtyard next to Michalopoulas Studio at 527 Elysian Fields on the corner of Chartres St. The debut market launches on Sunday, October 11 (don’t worry Saints fans, it’s a bye day), and moves to the third Saturday of the month for the November and December holiday markets. Hours are 11am to 5pm. Organized by flea queen Cree McCree, author of Flea Market America, Elysian Fleas features 40 unique vendors selling everything from used and rare books, fine silver jewelry and retrochic clothes to second line umbrellas, fairy dolls, and sweet and spicy pecans. With Halloween on the horizon at the October 11 market, seasonal spirits will also be out in force. Shoppers can play dress-up with one-of-a-kind costumes, masks and headdresses from High Bohemia, Howlpop, Avant Garbe, New Orleans Masks, Ann Marie Popko and other fashionistas, including Creeations’ 2009 line of Vampire Cocktail Couture. “I’m really excited to have all these

Pre-Halloween Edition due out Tuesday, October 13

inside gay history month out & about in mobile the pink pastor, e-mail/letters everybody's a critic sappho psalm in the spotlight celebrazzi ambush paparazzi/new orleans las vegas paparazzi under the gaydar halloween new orleans

DEADLINE: Tues., October 6 8 10 12 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 25

mobile paparazzi classifieds alexandria, olympus style alexandria paparazzi acadiana paparazzi/lafayette hot tails of red stick/baton rouge allons acadiana/lafayette lake charles paparazzi red stick paparazzi/baton rouge snap paparazzi/st. martin, nola ambush paparazzi/new orleans

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

26 28 32 33 34 36 36 38 39 40 42

terrific creative people and vintage vendors in the same spot,” says McCree, whose local career dates back to the legendary Mermaid Flea Market. “We couldn’t ask for a better location, which allows us to draw in tourists as well as locals. And the funky mix of merch we have is perfect for the Marigny.” Further details about Elysian Fleas chefs and Artist Inc.’s live entertainment will be released in the coming days. But one thing’s for sure right now. With theatrical impresario Reese Johanson in charge of the stage, you can expect the unexpected. “The old world European village flea markets are the inspiration behind Elysian Fleas,” says Johanson, who [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 Regina & Lee Adams-Mullen, 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

4 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 5

1021 W. J udg e P er ez Judg udge Per ere

Chalmette, LA 70043 • Free Prescription Delivery • Direct Billing to Medicaid/Medicare • Private Insurance & Third-Party Payers • Billing Assistance • Competitive Pricing • Confidential, Personal, Professional Service

504.279.6312 24 Hour Beeper: 504.259.8061

A proven community leader in value and customer service! • We Deliver or ship to your home/office • We Accept Medicaid/Medicare Rodney Culotta, RPh the "official" dish ...from 4 runs the weekly Salon and the monthly Un Route cabaret, both at the Blue Nile. “Merchants and buvette (food and drink area), yes of course, but it wouldn’t be complete without the colorful troubadours rolling through to entertain the villagers.”

New Orleans Artists Donate Talent for Green Cause

arkway Partners Inc, a nonprofit partnership between the citizens and the city of New Orleans, announced that several local artists have donated their time and talent to the organizations’ annual fundraiser Feast With The Stars, a jazz brunch featuring local celebrities, live jazz and silent auction.

French Quarter artists and gallery owners David Harouni (harouni.com) and Amzie Adams (allamzieallthetime.com) are each painting a large purple martin birdhouse, provided by Parkway Partners, in their own original and eclectic style. These birdhouses will be auctioned online and onsite at Feast With the Stars to fund Parkway Partners ongoing efforts to restore the urban canopy and educate and empower community gardeners. “Johnny Appleseed was right,” commented artist Amzie Adams. “Organizations like Parkway Partners, with their re-greening efforts, can only make the city of New Orleans and our lives as residents better.” The Feast With the Stars silent auction also includes French Quarter Street Lamps, a framed oil on canvas

OPEN

9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. by Frederick Guess, a giclee’ of an original oil painting by Andrea Dillahunty, a print from photographer Colleen Mullins, and a framed watercolor by Theresa Weisheit donated by Art for the Heart & Soul. Small birdhouses have also been painted and decorated by WDSU TV 6 personalities Margaret Orr, Rachael Wulff, Melanie Hebert, Kriss Fairbairn, Camille Whitworth and Norman Robinson as well as WWNO FM radio personality Jack Hopke. The silent auction is now open, with participation occurring online until midnight October 1 st at www.blacktielouisiana.com. Bidding will continue onsite at Feast With the Stars.

Feast With The Stars will be held on Sunday, October 11 from 11:30am to 2pm at Gallier Hall. Some of the area’s finest restaurants including Bayona, Cafe Reconcile, Dooky Chase, The Creole Creamery, and K Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen will provide food. Additional auction items include airline tickets, tours, health club memberships and spa services, as well as meals and overnight stays at prominent local restaurants and hotels. A full list of event participants and silent auction donors can be found at parkwaypartnersnola.org/Feast09. [continued on 8]

6 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 7

gay history month Interview with Walter Cronkite by Mark Segal Edited by Jason Villemez MS: What are your thoughts on gay marriage? WC: I don’t see why states should have any interest in gay marriage. That’s not an issue that the state government or any government should be involved in. This is a personal question and should be solved on a personal basis, and I just don’t believe the government has any role in it. If there is an attempt to legislate the "official" dish ...from 6 “Our green initiatives depend on community participation and involve New Orleanians from all walks of life,” commented Jean Fahr, Executive Director of Parkway Partners. “The efforts of artists, chefs and media personalities are deeply appreciated and what makes Feast With The Stars so special.”” Parkway Partners achieved LANO certification in 2008, the first “green” organization to receive this distinction. All donations to Parkway Partners and Feast With The Stars are tax-deductible. A partnership between the community and the city for 27 years, Parkway Partners works to improve and expand green spaces in New Orleans. Ongoing campaigns include ReLeaf New Orleans, Adopt-A-Neutral Ground, Save Our Tress, Community and Schoolyard Gardens, and Second Saturday Program. For more information, visit us online at parkwaypartnersnola.org.

against it, like the attempt to legislate against abortion, this is an interference of personal and civil rights that should be protested and contested. Short of that, the attitude ought to be, “Well, that’s the way they feel. This doesn’t have to be the way I feel, but, let’s live and live together and accept these things.” So I think that I’m getting on very dangerous ground here, but I think there is a danger in trying to force an acceptance of your lifestyle. This ought to come through the more gradual educational process. But I don’t want to sound like [Republican presidential candidate Steve] Forbes and abortion It really isn’t your business to sell this to the public. Educate the public. But don’t try to sell it. And, and I think that there, sometimes the line is crossed there – that you’re trying to propagandize the people to, to accept what, what you believe to be right. There is a fine line there between defense and aggression, and that line has to be very clearly defined and closely observed. MS: Acceptance has been a long time coming, and we still have areas like the military where public support has risen but those in the leadership have not bought into the notion. WC: In the military, I believe fully that, there again, it’s a question of, of one’s civil rights and one certainly should have the right to live as one chooses. The suggestion that homosexuality is somehow going to be forced upon the other members of the barracks seems to me to be a non-issue. It’s just a ridiculous red herring. I know that some of my friends in the military think it’s a ridiculous issue to make, to make an issue of what could be, could be handled quite as easily, as well – open rights. MS: The right wing has used us as an election ploy for years, but there have been and still are legitimate conservative extremists who wish violence upon the gay community. How should we deal with people like that? WC: I think we all should be fearful of any issue regarding extremists – whether they’re left or right. And certainly, I’d be very concerned, particularly if I were one of the minority group about this attempt to enforce a moral code through some misinterpretation of some religious beliefs. I’d be very worried about that. Yeah, I’d be concerned. I’m concerned about that kind of attitude from both left and right in the country – militants who are fanatic in their beliefs are dangerous wherever they lie. I don’t like the word “attack.” I wouldn’t “attack” anybody. That’s certainly not necessarily, and probably counterproductive.

But defense mechanism against the know-nothings in our world, certainly are required. There you have a duty to answer those arguments that are, to your mind, completely out of line. I think that that’s fundamental – a fundamental right and a fundamental duty, a fundamental responsibility to what you believe in. MS: What about demonstrations? WC: There’s no question that militant demonstrations offend a proportion of the population no matter what the subject matter is. There are people that would rather not be awakened to issues, rather not be bothered by issues, they do not like seeing the city streets used as theater for issues, and they are the people who do not understand the Constitution and the right to demonstrate. Those are the very ones, who, if you ask them if people have a right to demonstrate, if they said to you, “Do you believe in the Constitution? It says people have the right to express their opinion,” they’d all say, “Oh, yes, absolutely.” “Well, do they have the right to demonstrate in front of the White House?” “Oh, no! They shouldn’t be doing that!” People have a kind of, I guess, a cleavage between theory and what they really want to see happening on the streets. So, there’s always going to be that resentment towards demonstrators, no matter if its gay-rights demonstrators or political, other issues. I don’t think that you could make a judgment on the success of such a thing. You have to make a judgment on the basis of the entire approach, the public perceptions from the situation, as opposed to before such activity began, and I don’t think there’s any question that there’s a very positive, educational effect. Whatever can be done to educate the public to the nature of homosexuality, to the, to the rights, civil rights to those who have a different lifestyle than the majority, this sort of thing, this is what is required. MS: What do you think of the gay movement now compared to it beginnings? WC: It seems to me that the gay movement has been highly successful. I think there’s much more awareness, obviously, of the issue in the country. It seems to me that the approval rating among the polls is good, and if that’s the result, then the movement has been successful.

(About this interview: Mark Segal met Cronkite when he disrupted the live broadcast of the CBS Evening News in December 1973 by holding a sign in front of Cronkite which read “Gays Protest CBS Prejudice...” They later became friends and this interview was recorded during one of their lunches. Walter Cronkite’s candor surprised Segal who thought they were ahead of their time. Upon Cronkite’s death it was pulled out of the drawer where it has resided for 13 years un-published. Date of the interview was March 6, 1996.)

8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 9

out & about in mobile by Bob Brunson

fter living in San Francisco for many years, it always amazes me that right here in my hometown, Mobile, AL, you can find a party that rivals some of the most successful parties I’ve ever seen. And once again it’s happening right here in downtown Mobile. This is definitely a party you don’t want to miss. It is BBob’s 17 Year Anniversary Extravaganza and Concert which will be a 3 day event! Jerry Ehlen, owner of B-Bob’s in downtown Mobile definitely knows how to throw a party. Not only does he give you one hell of a show, he gives it to you at less than half the price that you would see it in any other venue. The 17 Year

Anniversary Extravaganza kicks off with none other than the hottest All Girl pop group of the 80’s! They were the first female group to ever top the charts since the Supremes! On October 16 at B-Bob’s you will experience the incredible talents of the original 80’s Pop Singing Sensations, EXPOSE’! The original Artists of Expose’, Gioia Bruno, Anne Cureless and Jeanette Jurado are back together again and better than ever before. They are on tour across America and rocking the country with the talent that rocked America in the late 80’s and early 90’s. With 10 Multi Platinum Top Ten Hits to their name, they will bring the house down with songs such as Point of No Return, Come Go With Me, Let Me

Be The One and many more! This awesome group makes Season’s Change when they step off the plane and into your city! Check out their website at exposeonline.net and make sure you don’t miss them LIVE in Concert at B-Bob’s. About six times a year, Jerry Ehlen of B-Bob’s rivals the Saenger Theatre with the artists he brings to Mobile. Last year alone he brought you the talents of International Recording Artists, Martha Wash (It’s Raining Men), Tiffany (I think We’re Alone Now), Amber (This Is Your Night, If You Could Read My Mind, Above The Clouds), Abigail (Could It Be Magic, Constant Craving, and Forever Young) and those are just to name a few. He has had many other Internationally Acclaimed Artists who have made appearances and performed in his nightclub throughout his 17 years of propriety in Mobile such as Bonnie Pointer of the Pointer Sisters, Cynthia Manley of Boystown Gang, The Cover Girls, Thea Austin, Cee Cee Penniston and many more. The weekend of October 16, 17, and 18 you will once again have the opportunity to experience the world class entertainment that B-Bob’s will bring you time and time again throughout the year, but, you will only have this ONCE IN A LIFETIME opportunity to see the original pop/dance group, EXPOSE’... back together again and rocking the nation. Opening for Expose’ on Friday night will be the very talented Josh Zuckerman. On Saturday the featured artist will be Kristy Lee and later that evening Nicole Dubois will be joining the regular cast of B-Bob’s for the evening show. On Sunday the featured artist will be Elaine Petty followed by the ongoing contest “So You Think You Can Drag”. Jerry is also the owner and sponsor of Mr. and Ms. Gay Pride Mobile Alabama, sponsor of the Gulf Coast Leather and Bear Association and owner of the Gulf Coast Bear contest, a former president and major sponsor of Mobile Alabama Pride, Inc, sponsor and officer of the Mobile Alabama Pride Bowling League, sponsor of Mr. Southern Renegade Mobile, AL and much, much more. Jerry offers his talents, his expertise, and most importantly his support to all LGBT Community Events in Mobile, AL and the Gulf Coast area. As October is his birthday month (and I won’t mention the year), I say Happy Birthday to you, Kudos’ to you Jerry and Happy Anniversary to B-Bob’s! Thank you for all you do for our community! Go to b-bobs.com to get all the details of their anniversary weekend or see B-Bob's anniversary ad on page 27 and Alabama photos on page 26.

10 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 11

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

Life, Death and The Transcendent

am writing this sitting at the bedside of a dear and beloved member of our church community, who is in the ICU of a New Orleans

hospital. It is a familiar position as I used to be a hospice chaplain in Los Angeles, but one with which you never grow accustomed. [continued on 14]

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

BITS AND PIECES “Ben & Jerry’s Marriage”

en & Jerry’s is celebrating the beginning of same-sex marriage in Vermont with the symbolic renaming of it’s well-known ice cream flavor “Chubby Hubby” to “Hubby Hubby”, according to a press release from Freedon to Marry. To kick off the celebration, Ben & Jerry’s and Freedon to Marry will publicly support the first marriages of the state’s samesex couples and raise awareness for marriage equality by urging people to visit FreedomToMarry.org. “Hubby Hubby” will be served through Vermont Scoop Shops throughout September. This is not a joke!

“Wanda!!”

anda Sykes, who announced last November, that she was gay and had a wife, and now has new twins, will have a triple dose of TV shows in her future. In addition to her supporting role as Barb on CBS, The New Adventures of Old Christine, she made an appearance on Curb Your Enthusiasm. FOX TV will launch her late night talk show, The Wanda Sykes Show, on November 7. Look for this funny lady to set the records straight about who she is and what she believes in. Funny stuff!!!

“Must See”

he new movie for this fall season is, The September Issue, and is the story of Anna Wintour and the making of Vogue magazine. This is for anyone that is the least bit interested in fashion. A good movie for all gay fashionistas. Considered to be the smash hit of the Fashion Season. Glamour says - “Run, don’t walk to ‘The September Issue’!”. And Vanity Fair says - “This is the REAL ‘Devil Wears Prada’!”. Check out www.theseptemberissue.com.

Watch for the opening nearest you!

“Pageant Tidbit”

he last issue, I wrote about this year’s Miss Continental contest that was held the same weekend as Southern Decadence. For some of you Pageant Queens and those that are curious as to what happened at that contest, you can go to www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. And also, you may see photo’s at www.MysticImagesPhotography.com. Some pretty interesting things to see and you get an idea what happens at pageants in other parts of the U.S. plus you might get some good ideas for yourself.

“Naked Cowboy???”

hile walking down Bourbon Street on Labor Day, outside of the Clover Grill, I was confronted by what appeared to be the “Naked Cowboy” in just his hat, briefs, and boots, and no guitar. However, upon a closer look it wasn’t him at all, but, a young man dressed like him. He came up and introduced himself as “Mark” and told me that he was selling calendars for 2010, and half

of the money would go to a local charity. Upon closer inspection, the calendar was of the best quality and all the months were of Mark dressed as a cowboy or Indian. The settings were great and the make-up and costumes were the best I have seen. The photographer, Benson, was accompanying him, and after some talking found out he is from New Orleans, and is also a designer. You might want to see his work, it’s called, Playing Cowboys and Indians, the model is Mark Hollan. Look him up on the Internet, at myspace.com/playing_cowboys. The calendars are also available at Alternatives, 907 Bourbon Street.

“Pirate Wenches in the FQ”

as in the Quarter having lunch and was talking to Jack at Alternatives when we saw Pirate Wenches wandering the streets. (No, it wasn’t the girls from Oz or the Pub). It seems that Saturday, 9/19, happened to be Talk Like a Pirate Day, which is the New Orleans Krewe of Pirate Wenches, and from 11am-5pm for a small donation a “Landlubber” would be thrown in the “brig”. The prisoner would have to remain there until someone would match your donation to bail you out, and while you waited they tortured you for everyone’s amusement. And I must say they had a LOVELY crew of “pirate men” with them, I’d like a look in their “treasure chests” anytime... Ahoy me matey’s!!!!!! Check out myspace.com/ nolawenches.

“Everything Must End”

here comes a time when all good things must come to an end. And as most of you have heard, I am planning on moving back to Chicago. This decision does not come easy, but due to medical problems, I must be back where my doctors are, and in case something happens to me, to be close to my family. I know that some of you have enjoyed my work, and have been more than complimentary, while others will be more than happy that I will be out of the way, and you won’t have to read the “in your face reality” of life in the gay community. But, isn’t that what today’s journalism and paparazzi’s are all about? In order to be honest, you have to be able to look at both sides of the picture, and harsh as it might seem, good, bad, or indifferent, the truth always is not pretty. No matter who you are or where you came from, or no matter how “grand” you think you are or want to be, there will always be someone that will be there to make you see the “real” you. I have been the “outsider” looking in and have tried to put into writing what I see that you don’t see. Sometimes I see it for what it really is and sometimes I see what you want me to see. And several times I have gone beyond that

e-mail/letters Dear Editor,

n September 14th, the Bourbon Pub hosted Di vas and Drag, a benefit for the NO/AIDS Walk. Divas and Drag is a collaboration between Limitless Design and the NO/AIDS taskforce. Volunteers dress in drag and perform to raise money for the NO/AIDS Task Force, an organization that provides services for those living with HIV/AIDS in the Greater New Orleans area. Every year, Divas and Drag gets bigger and better, and this year was no exception as it was the first year that Divas and Drag was a smoke-free event. Smoking is a serious health problem for the LGBT community. LGBTs are 4070% more likely to smoke – the population has one of the highest smoking rates of all the disproportionately affected subpopulations. Studies repeatedly show that LGBT smoking prevalence rates are 35% to almost 200% higher than the general population. What is even more alarming is that LGBT adolescents are taking up smoking at an alarming rate. A recent national study showed that 45% of LGBT females and 35% of LGBT males smoke in comparison to 29% of the rest of the youth. The American Cancer Society estimates that over 30,000 LGBT individuals die each year from tobacco – related diseases. Both non-smokers and smokers said that they really enjoyed the event, and no one seemed to mind smoking outside in the designated areas. Those who attended Divas and Drag expressed that they would like to see more smokefree nights in the bars in New Orleans. It is clear that New Orleanians support a tobacco-free environment and that together we can all take steps to tobacco-free living in New Orleans! Sincerely, --Jon Pennycuff

and tried to help you see and have made suggestions as to how things could change, even if it was in an unorthodox way. And yes, sometimes with “shock” tactics, too. I am planning on doing one more issue, and hoping that someone will come along and continue where I leave off. And I hope that you will be open to the next persons way of writing and thinking. I can’t thank Rip and Marsha enough for giving me the opportunity to do this. I could never be another Donnie Jay, however I hope I did what he would have done, and I can bet he has been “up there” laughing, and saying, “You go Girl !!!” P.S. I will be sending you correspondence, from the North, to let you know what is happening in the Windy City.

12 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 13

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

A Sunday In September

can hardly put one foot in front of the other. That NO/AIDS Walk really took the starch out of my sails. Did I walk? Heck, no. I worked registration again with PFLAG which was fun, and then I watched the walkers gather and leave the park. All that energy being expended was more than I could handle. I decided to leave the party and go to church. My rational was that if I prayed for the walkers, they would be protected from heat exhaustion and leg cramps. Wrong, Randy told me this morning that he saw about a half dozen walkers on the ground just as he entered the park. They were resting so that they could walk to their cars. One of the wounded was PFLAG’s own Kathy Banko who had also worked registration. Two jobs before 11 o’clock are just too much for anyone. She was dehydrated and getting moral support from the Riverdale student volunteers. Kathy recruited students from Riverdale High School to work and walk. They were there when she was lying on the grass huffing and puffing. Randy Trahan and David Green didn’t see her when they entered the park or they would have offered assistance. She called the registration tent to report on her situation to Julie. They sent the EMS’s over. Now that has happened to me (EMS being called) and it is very embarrassing. If nothing is wrong, you have to convince concerned people to go away, and that isn’t easy. These people love to get you in their vehicle and drive full out to the furthest hospital. This is enough to make you sick by the time you arrive. I never wait around until the end for that very reason. Someone is going to return to the park ill and I don’t want to be in the way. I, also, dislike rubbernecks. Then the ambulance driver is going to beat the victim up with his truck during the drive, and I might be asked to identify the driver at a later time. It is better to be long gone. Knowing that prayer and faith healed me, I figured I’m doing my part by rushing off to Christ the Liberator. And rush is exactly what Ray and I did. If church starts at 11 o’clock, why does Ray have to get there for 10? He gets a little squirrely if we arrive after 10:30. So he flew down Claiborne Avenue, screaming at everyone and anyone. Good preparation. You know those guys that stand on the corners with signs? I think Ray put two of them in the trees – one at Claiborne Avenue and MLK Blvd. and the second at Claiborne Avenue and

Elysian Fields. If you saw me at the Walk, you know I was wearing balloons and a red clown nose in addition to my very red Walk t-shirt, and jeans of course. Ray said that I could not wear the balloons to church. He wanted me to set them free. I put them in the back seat of the Saturn after detaching them. I refused to remove my nose. Fr. Michael turned pale when I told him I was the reader. He asked Gary if I was planning to wear the red nose to read. There was mumbling between Ray, Gary and Michael so I went to the bar. It sounded to me like the people there were much friendlier. Guilt got the better of me. I went back to church and asked if the nose was a problem. Now I believe that God has a sense of humor. If he didn’t care, why should anyone else? Wrong (again), you can leave the nose on if you’re not reading, I was told. Off came the nose with some disappointment. There are people who will disagree but the truth is that I am compliant. Ray and I stopped at the Tiger Diner for lunch. Our friend Jess did not have a good experience there but we decided to try it anyway. The meal was great – breaded pork chops with potatoes, corn, bread and salad. I brought enough home for a second meal and a snack during the last quarter of the Saints game. French fries and football is a terrific combination. The game was incredible. What I didn’t see on TV at home, I heard on the car radio or watched in the diner. We not only shut down the Philly team, we shut up the Philly spectators. I had to laugh out loud. How many times has that happened to us? Geaux Saints! The Tiger Diner on Airline Highway (Drive, to some) is painted with purple and gold tiger strips outside and lots of LSU memorabilia on the inside including the cooks from the looks of them. So there we were looking over the menu when a man started smiling at us. Well, Ray’s back was turned. Perhaps he was smiling at me. I always smile back which has proven more than once to be a mistake. This man had on an apron so I thought I’d be safe talking to him since he worked at the diner. What really caught his eye was the NO/AIDS Walk volunteer t-shirt. He came over to tell me that he was once a volunteer at Project Lazarus and he asked if Sister Marcy was still in town. I told him about her new assignment and how happy she was, and we talked until the salads arrived. With eyes closed savoring the moment, I took my first bite of pork

the pink pastor ...from 12 I always hoped when I was in training at seminary that ordination conveyed some sort of special gift that allowed for detachment from the trials and pain of human lives – from emotional involvement in their struggles; I discovered very quickly that this is not the case; you mourn the loss of someone you have pastored as if it was your own close family. As I pray wholeheartedly that this particular member of my spiritual family makes a full recovery, I am also reminded that the final episode of our lives on Earth is also the most transcendent and mysterious – it is death and the whisper of hope and fear that it carries that set many of us thinking about God. Some people think this is a problem, that we only turn to God when troubles strike, but it would be more of a problem if we did not! Better surely to think on these matters when we sorely need God than be forever estranged from the only force in the universe that can make sense of them. The ancient Greeks held that there were two different types of knowledge in the world. These were known as Mythos and Logos. Logos was the sort of knowledge required to make a cart, or dig a well, or carry off a successful hunt; in our world this knowledge would be the empirical results of hard science that allow for everything from jet aircraft to plasma TVs. The ancients understood this was very necessary indeed but also understood that it was not enough, when I heard not my moan of satisfaction but a man clearing his throat. It was the smiling man again. Are you Toni Pizanie (Pie – san – ee), he asked? Surprised, I blinked back a frown and said, yes. You write for Ambush, he stated. Yeaaas. Seems I knew this man in another life time – not only from Ambush articles and Laz House but from the Mint. It was Jimmy the “Green Thing” and he remembered me from almost ten years ago. Green Thing was a nickname that Macy had given to Jimmy when he worked with her. I knew him best when he was a bar-back. Those were happy days and I had to laugh remembering them. It sure was nice seeing Jimmy again and I’m glad he recognized me. My small world keeps getting smaller. I just found this flyer and wanted to let you know that if you are looking for something fun to do on a Tuesday night, try Upstairs in the Parade for the Carnival Kings Variety Show. The show starts at midnight. I talked to some people who have seen the show and they loved it. In our next issue, I’ll tell you about the an affaerie at Stewart Butler’s, the Forum For Equality’s Acclaim Awards and the LGBT Students and Allied Friends Mixer. Until then, stay healthy and be happy.

that it coexisted with another sort of knowledge – the difficult stuff that is all about meaning, the ‘why’ not the ‘how’. They called this ‘Mythos’ or myth – and in their world it was revered and respected as a way of conveying truths too subtle and complex for mere ‘logos’. Death and dying are the realm of ‘Mythos’. It is no comfort to us as human beings to be told our loved one’s lungs are failing, or that their arteries are clogged – we need to understand why this is happening and what will happen to the essence, the SOUL of our beloved. Christianity was perfectly comfortable with these two separate but coexisting forms of knowledge for seventeen hundred years, it was only when the enlightenment occurred that each province – scientific understanding and religious faith, tried to take over. This was disastrous. Literalism and fundamentalism is a result of religious people trying to read ‘mythos’ as if it was ‘logos’ – trying to understand the richness and splendor of scripture as if it were a paper on microbiology, or an anthropological essay. Even as recently as Calvin, he understood and maintained that when scripture flatly contradicts something that can be clearly demonstrated to be true about the world, then that scripture must be reinterpreted as allegory and mined for deeper meaning. We as a society are the poorer for losing 90% of the Bible’s richness and 90% of the depth of spiritual meaning in the world because we have come to expect and understand only the dry narrative of scientific report and statistics. Death inhabits the grandeur of mythos – a world where light shines from the faith we hold, not from the pen of the coroner. Anyone who has sat with the dying, and seen the light of life snuff out knows that the human soul is the animating force in our bodies, not just electrical processes in the brain. If we are talking in the language of ‘mythos’ we should not expect our religious experiences to be reproducible like scientific experiments; we should be content with them to remain forever personal and mysterious. We should be content for their meaning to remain in our hearts and unable to be translated into a cold report on the nature of the afterlife. Our difficulty in putting these extraordinary insights and experiences into words is no shameful thing – rather it suggests that there is such a breadth and depth of meaning in them that they forever elude simple description, and that the English language, like all other languages, breaks down at the edge of God. There, at the edge of God we meet God - the fact that we are seldom able to express this transcendence is to be expected, not apologized for. As Saint Paul says, The Spirit communicates in ‘groaning too deep’ for us to comprehend - let us be content with this. Let us accept and embrace mystery and let it explain what science cannot.

14 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 15

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

Miss & Madam Elysian Fields at JohnPaul's

n Sunday, September 13, JohnPaul’s presented the Miss & Madam Elysian Fields 2009 Pageant, under the direction of Marcy Marcell and Elizabeth Bouvier. When it finally started, 30 minutes late, it went very smoothly and quite well considering there were five Miss and three Madam contestants. Opening the show was Miss Marcell, followed by Miss Bouvier. The emcee’s for the event were Elizabeth and Opal Masters, who whisked the ladies through there paces and kept the contest rolling along quite nicely. The judges for the event were: for Miss - Darwin, SDGM XXXIII Regina, and Miss Louisiana Leatherette Kevin, aka Cathy Fox. And for Madam Kenny, Gay Men's Chorus' Rusty, and Friendly Bar's Marty. They had their work cut out for them, as the contestants were more than ready to show what they had,( and some showed more than others), and prove they wanted those crowns. The contestants for the Miss portion were - 1. Heaven Lee, 2. Tanisha St. James, 3. Barbara Ella, 4. Miss Beautiful, and 5. Bubbles Champagne. The contestants for the Madam portion were - 1. Lady Hope, 2. Chlamydia Nora Clapp, and 3. Rhonda Roget. All contestants showed their originality when they came out for the Presentation, which was for 20 pts. at the beginning, and then again for their Talent, which was for 50 pts., which was next, and finally the glamour portion of Evening Gown, which was for 30 pts., to bedazzle everyone. The judges were all quite adept at the judging and moved along rapidly. The entertainment between categories was supplied by Elizabeth, Opal, Princesse Stephaney, Raven Kennedy and Marcy. And when the ballots all were tallied the winners were: Miss Elysian Fields 2009 Barbara Ella, and Madam Elysian Fields 2009 Rhonda Roget. Congratulations to both of you on your success, and to the success of the

Reach the Market

Ambush

504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

pageant. Good job by all !!!

Drag Survivor # 8

t has narrowed down to four contestants vying for the $1,000 prize, and Oz was filled with tension as to who would be voted off this week. And opening the show was none other than Tommy Elias, himself with the remaining contestants as his “backup” eye-candy. Doing Velkommen from Cabaret, he did himself proud and brought the house down. Then it was time for the girls to pull their numbers for their positions in the show. The line-up was 1. Sable, who did a Liza number and looked extremely good; 2. Tahtiana, who also did a Liza number and did very well; 3. Candi, gave us Barbra in a flawless outfit; and 4. Shan’yia, who worked it in yellow lace. It was an excellent job by all, but don’t forget, it was only the lip synch that counts. Persana Shoulders emceed all by herself, as Blanche Debris was missing in action, she supposedly flew to Rio. And since there were only four contestants, they had Entertainer of the Year Coca perform, doing a number from Wicked that was fabulous, and also, one of the cast members from the Sunday night show, Mercedes Ellis Loreal performed. And finally it was time for the gloves to go on, and the sharp tongues to come out and do their job as the “girls” got to decide who would go next. When all was said and done, Candi Fox was voted off unanimously, and she extinguished the flame on the torch with her fan, the torch man was Kevin. So only two weeks left and on the 30th of September we’ll see who is the winner of the big bucks. (Heard a rumor that all the contestants will be back for the finals, and they might be doing the voting to see who gets the money...interesting !)

LSGRA Chili Cook-Off II

n Saturday, 9/19, at Tubby's Golden Lantern, the LSGRA sponsored it's 2nd annual Chili Cook-Off 1pm-3pm. The contestants came armed with their recipes and crocks of the good stuff for everyone to sample. There was a $5 donation to taste all entries, plus a bowl for your best choice. At the end of the tasting each person got to select which one they determined was their best choice to get the People’s Choice Award. The judges for the event were. Paul, Chris, and Vince, and they had the honor to taste all entries and decide who would get the Judges Champion Award. And they also chose who had the Best Presentation. After many

bowls and much licking of spoons, when the 3 o’clock deadline appeared, everyone had made their choice and waited to see who would be presented with the prizes. The contestants were: Steven and Chad, Bob White, Barry, George, Amanda Straddle, and Lance. The Winner for Best Presentation Steven and Chad. The Winner for People’s Choice - Barry. The Winners for Judge’s Champion - 1st Lance, 2nd Amanda, 3rd Steven and Chad. It was an enjoyable afternoon and a good way to make money for LSGRA. There next event is the bus trip to Angola Prison on October 11 for the Angola Rodeo (anyone interested in going, contact Lance/504.915.3339), or go to www.lsgra.org/events. And a special thanks to Lance Pippin, Elizabeth (Miss LSGRA), and Denny (Mr.LSGRA), and especially to Rick, manager of Tubby’s Golden Lantern... PS: Amanda Straddle brought the antacid tablets.

NO/AIDS Divas & Drag by Nathan Brooks, rlockhartlmt@gmail.com ivas & Drag was a wonderful show for a wonderful cause, put together by Limitless Designs and raised money for the NO/AIDS Task Force. The theme of this year’s show was Under the Big Top, and although some came because they thought that title meant something else, others came to cheer on their favorite NO/AIDS employees and volunteers at the Bourbon Pub on September 14. The numbers were overwhelming as the event raised over $4,000 in tips and entry fees from the overflowing crowd. It is great to see an event be so successful for a charity and organization that does so much in New Orleans and we would like to thank Chris Leonard and Limitless Designs for putting on this event, complete with a full Circus environment including a “Freak” Show, faux queens, camp drag, and drag kings! Presiding over the event was hostess and Bitch of the Year Princesse Stephaney and Gina. Also, different from most shows, was a new twist as the venue was made NON-SMOKING for the entire evening. Guests were only allowed to smoke outside on the balcony before, during, and after the show. Although different patrons didn’t seem to mind the small rule and were very good about obeying. We “thank you” all for your time, and thank all the entertainers, security, bartenders, and staff that helped this wonderful event go so smooth and raise the large amount that we did.

Amon Ra's Mr. & Miss America Pageant

he Krewe of Amon-Ra held their 2009-2010 Mr. and Miss America Pageant at the Fine

Arts Center uptown. The contestants were amazing and so it made the night one to remember both in the eyes of the winners and the members of the krewe. The feeling of standing on the stage as you are honored for service that you have given to a place in your community is something that can never be explained. The admiration and respect for a job well done is a satisfying feeling that can never be taken away from you. I say this as the former Mr. America with the love and respect of my heart. On September 19, I respectfully turned over my crown as did Miss America Ms. Laquita Bonita Chiquitta Margaritta Jenkins to a thunderous roar. With five contestants for Mr. and two for Miss this competition was one of the larger in 25 years. The competitors in Mr. were only judged on swim wear and the “ladies” judged on talent, presentation, and evening wear. The guys were amazing and all a different “spice” which showed the diversity in the gay community of New Orleans. From Twinks to Leather Boys to Musclemen, everyone was represented. They paraded in their swim wear in front the judges. The females consisted of Miss Gulf States American Dynasty Elite Kelly Chaisson and Miss American Dynasty Miss Gia who tore up the stage with their comedy routines. Kelly came out in as white trash country bumkin with her rod as Miss April and Miss Gia came out in a skimpy bikini hiding nothing looking like Jackie Beat’s retarded step child. When it came to talent Kelly went head to head with the current Prom Queen of Amon Ra as a pregnant nympho trying to get laid. Gia’s talent consisted of her coming out dressed as if she had just walked off Rampart to the tune of F++k Me When You Can. As for evening wear Kelly would dawn a replica of Carol Burnet’s curtain dress (Scarlett O'Hara) and Gia an orange dress with the theme “All Eyes on Me” which literally had Google eyes all over it. The hardest part of any of these competitions was the winners being decided. Both were very very close and came down to the wire as Gia would be crowned Miss America and Cody Warembourg was crowned Mr. America. I hope that they can pick up where me and Constantine have left off and next year the pageant grows to a larger audience with more contestants. Although the scores add up in a pageant, I do want to say that all pageants are the opinion of a panel of judges added up to form one opinion. Just like anything else in life losing is not fun, but we all have our down falls and let downs in life. The most important thing is to pick ourselves up and remember not to be bitter or burn the bridges which we have worked so hard to build. The majority of the time those bridges are connected to people who [continued on 19]

16 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 17

celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

tylist Donavon and owner Monica Malta join stylists Mark and Cynthia celebrating Salon D’Malta’s 5th Anniversary. The chocolate anniversary cake with the trademark salon logo was created by Hot Chocolate, locally owned and known for their exotic cakes. Bywater Bar.B.Que catered the affair with several wonderful creations. For more on the salon, visit SalonDMalta.COM.

ponsors and board members led the 20th annual NO/AIDS Walk departing from Audubon Park through uptown New Orleans ending back at the park. Raising over $165,000, the top individual walkers hailed from the gay community again this year with Toby Lefort in first place with $24,055 and Brian Sands in second place with $9,430. For more information, visit NOAIDSWalk.COM.

ody Warembourg and Gia were crowned Mr. and Miss America after stiff competition at the Fine Arts Center in uptown New Orleans. Hosted by the Krewe of Amon Ra, last years winners Nathan Brooks and Ms. Laquita Bonita Chiquitta Margaritta Jenkins returned to crown the new winners. The event raised funds for the krewe’s 45th bal masque on February 6, 2010. Visit KreweOfAmonRa.COM for more information.

he Louisiana State Gay Rodeo Association (LSGRA) Chili Cook-Off II was hosted at Tubby’s Golden Lantern in New Orleans. Chosen as the Judge's Champions were 3rd place Steven, 2nd place Amanda Straddle and 1st place Lance. For more on the association, visit LSGRA.COM.

xactly one month following their 35th anniversary on August 17, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain celebrated with their first trip to Las Vegas. They were serenaded on the Grand Canal at the Venetian, and saw Jubilee at Bally’s and Cirque Du Soleil’s O at Bellagio. Additionally, they visited the Liberace Museum, Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, and the Eiffel Tower Experience. Taking advantage of the monorail, they also visited Paris, Caesars Palace, The Forum Shops, Mirage, Flamingo, Harrah’s, Sahara, MGM Grand, Excalibur and Luxor.

ageant promoters John Vignone and Paul Chiriaco flank the first Miss and Madam Elysian Fields Barbara Ella and Rhonda Roget following competition at JohnPaul’s in New Orleans. There were five contestants in the Miss pageant and three in the Madam pageant. Visit JohnPaulsBar.COM for more on the club.

18 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

in the spotlight ...from 16 are important in our lives and the damage could be so severe that we will never be able to repair them.

Nathan Brooks Benefit

night of stars from all over New Orleans and Louisiana came to my aid on September 23 to help me finance my way to Mr. USofA in Houston, TX at the end of the month. A huge Tuesday night at Oz as over 15 named entertainers perform in an aid to help raise money for a friend. Entertainers included Chelsea DeLorean Divine, Miss Gia, Starr, Miranda Mann, Kabrina Watson, Tamaya Watson, Devion Alexander, Frankie, Jasmin SX, Rikki Redd, Gary Glitter, Apheelia Breast, Bi$ket, Coca, and the ringleader of the event Persana Shoulders. The event was a major highlight of what our state can provide in entertainment and was like a homecoming of the Kingdom show from 2007. I was happy to see members of the community also there to show support. As I performed my last number the small dressing room got really empty as the entertainers filtered out to show their respect and gratitude for a show well planned and very well attended. Kabrina Watson brought tears to my eyes as she put her donations in my hands with one statement, ”Bitch Go Win!” The dressing room was called to the stage and finalized the night with a group hug and some words of encouragement to me as I leave my city for Houston in the upcoming weeks for a dream that I hope to accomplish. It takes moments like these for us to stop in our tracks and look at all we have been given and what have we given to receive those gifts. Those who showed up and braved all cost like Chelsea DeLorean Divine who sported a fever, migraine and reduced flu symptoms to

do one number to those who over worked themselves by doing three numbers like Coca and Miss Gia, and even to those who came out of a venued retirement like Tamaya Watson and Kabrina Watson, to everyone one who came from near and far from the bottom of my heart thank you all and you are all in my heart as i go to a higher platform in my career of entertainment. Also thanks to Oz Nightclub who was the venue and Tommy

Elias who helped set up the stage and dance floor for a great event. I hope to make you guys proud at Houston’s Club Crystals September 30-October 2 and return with the first major national male title in Louisiana.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 19

ambush

paparazzi

Bob in LSGRA’s Chili Cook-Off II at Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Contestant Frankie, 2009 winner Cody, Amon Ra’s outgoing Mr. America Nathan Brooks & contestant Eddy

Josie Mae Cotton at Amon Ra's Mr. & Miss America

Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXIV Guadalupe celebrates Salon D’Malta’s 5th Anniversary with owner Monica Malta

George in LSGRA’s Chili Cook-Off II at Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Queen Amon Ra Rhonda Roget entertains for Amon Ra’s Mr. & Miss America Pageant

Lord King & Consort XXV Michael & Doug welcome guests to their Open House bash

Rick & Lance sling cocktails for LSGRA’s Chili Cook-Off II at Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Amon Ra’s Mr. & Miss America judges Lauren Brown, Miss LSGRA Elizabeth Bouvier, Lord King Gary Vandeventer & King Cake Queen Tami Tarmac

Mr. & Miss LSGRA Denny & Elizabeth welcome SDGM XXXV Sammy (c) to LSGRA’s Chili Cook-Off II at Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Sam, Princesse Stephaney & Lords of Leather Capt. David Boyd at Doug & Michael’s Open House

NOLA Wenches & their Pirate celebratin’ outside World famous Clover Grill

Miss America 1st runner-up Kelly Chaisson

Miss LSGRA Elizabeth & People’s Choice Winner Barry in LSGRA’s Chili Cook-Off II

Sable & Cocoa served up fine hors d’oeuvres at Doug & Michael’s Open House

Presentation Winner Steven & Miss LSGRA Elizabeth at LSGRA’s Chili Cook-Off II

Amon Ra’s Miss America 2008 Ms. Laquita Bonita Chiquitta Margaritta Jenkins returns to give up her crown joined by Persana Shoulders

Amon Ra’s Miss Turnabout Barbara Ella

Al & Dwain at Doug & Michael’s Open House

20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Close-up Excitement ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Nathan Brooks, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio

Brother Luigi joins sister Monica, Dad Luis & Monica’s daughter Ashley for Salon D’Malta’s 5th Anniversary bash at the salon

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 21

Marsha & Rip make their first trip to Vegas

New York, New York

Bacchus at Caesars Palace

Paris Las Vegas

Paris MGM Grand

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace

The Trevi Fountain at Caesars Palace

Liberace Museum The glass ceiling in Bellagio’s lobby Live from the Dolphin Habitat at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden at the Mirage

snap

The Dancing Fountains at Bellagio Liberace Museum

paparazzi

The Grand Canal at the Venetian

The Venetian

Happy Hour at Napoleon’s in Paris

Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur

Luxor

Marsha & Rip with the babies at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden at the Mirage

22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Rip & Marsha's Destination Las Vegas celebrating their 35th Anniversary ~ Nevada ~ Photos by Ambush

This white lion poses for a kiss with Marsha at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden at the Mirage

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 23

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

Villa St.Martin

magine yourself on a Caribbean island with sugary white sand, so fine it feels like you are walking on air. The waves of the cool, light blue water laps gently along the pristine beach as a tender breeze sways the leaves of the palm trees that rock your hammock as you lazily relax reading some trashy summer novel. The gentle sounds of calypso music can be heard wafting in the background as you dive into the crystal water so salty that it feels like you are floating. Sounds like a dream. Well luckily for me, I recently got the opportunity to experience a piece of this Caribbean paradise when I took a trip to St. Martin. My very good friend Christine Breaux invited me to a special birthday party she was having on the island of St. Martin. All I had to do was take care of airfare and all the other details were handled. Always up for an adventure, I readily agreed and it proved to be one my best trips. So before I go into details about my gay adventure on the island, I though you might want to know a little more about the place. St. Martin is the smallest island in the world ever to have been partitioned between two different nations, St. Martin/St. Maarten has been shared by the French and the Dutch in a spirit of neighborly cooperation and mutual friendship for almost 350 years. Each side has managed to retain much of the distinctiveness of its own national culture. The French St. Martin tend to emphasize comfort and elegance. The beaches are more secluded, and the restaurants offer the finest dining experiences anywhere in the Caribbean. On the other hand, St. Maarten is a busy cruise port with a bustling commercial district, that has long been an active center for trade and tourism. More developed and at the same time more informal, it is very Dutch in flavor and still has strong ties with fellow compatriots in the other Netherlands Antilles. Located midway through the chain of islands in the Caribbean, just as the Antilles begin to curve to the south, St. Martin is sunny and warm year-round, averaging 82 degrees Fahrenheit in summer and just 2 degrees cooler in winter. The island is buffeted by cooling trade winds that keep things temperate all year long. Our party of five arrived via American Airline at 2:30pm in the afternoon and we were off. Christine being the perfect hostess for our little island jaunt had arranged a rental car to traipse around in. Our hotel to my delight

turned out to be a four bedroom private villa nestled in the mountains overlooking a personal beach and several other Caribbean islands in the distance such as Antigua. Our villa sported its own pool which butted up against the cliff so we can swim right to the edge and look over at the beach below. St. Martin is a gay man’s ideal island for many reasons, the first and foremost is shopping. Holy mother of Macy’s, the shopping on this island is off the chart with great deals you can get on everything. I found the best shopping at Philipsburg which is on the Dutch side and Mahu Bay on the French side. I got such a great deal on a Skagen watch that I bought two. I got a Coach man purse and a Dolce and Gabbana bag for a fraction of the cost. And the liquor prices were so low that it seemed unreal. Imagine a liter of Absolut for under ten dollars. Now for the gay scene. There is only one gay bar on the island called Club Eros and it is only open on Saturday nights from 11pm to 4am. Talk about your window of opportunity. Never to be one to pass up opening a new window, I made it my duty to visit while I was on the island. Christine had hired us a private driver to chauffeur us around when we went out at night. I do not think it was as much for the luxury of having a driver for her guests, but the fact she did not want to have the rental car end up at the bottom of the mountain. The road to get to the villa was pretty treacherous, one wrong turn and you are off the cliff. So John was our driver, and he spirited me to Club Eros at exactly 11pm. That window was tiny so I did not want to miss anything. The club is located on the French side of the island in the township of Marigot. Eros is not a large club, but it is very welcoming with a European flavor and inviting atmosphere. The bartender, Loic was a total dream with the nicest bedroom eyes. He filled me in on the gay scene around the island. Since September is off season, I actually got to meet more of the gay locals at the club than tourists. The owner is named Nanou and she is a fiery redhead, who was celebrating her birthday the night I was there. Champagne went around for everyone and music was pumping thanks to Nanou’s son Roland, who is the resident DJ. Met some really cool people, definitely a stop you need to make. There is a gay beach on the island called Cupecoy. It is just one of the 37 beaches and it has a naturist area for

those who like to go sans swimsuit. There are also lots of nice trails to wander around on the beach just in case you meet that special someone. And the restaurants on the island are some of the best dining experiences. My favorite restaurant was a wonderful little tourist place called The Greenhouse located in Philipsburg. The food, the view of the bay and the service made it a great choice. Also Marion who runs the place made it worth the trip. She even gave me her secret recipe to a Raging Bull smoothie. A wonderfully refreshing drink made from red bull, orange juice, pineapple, bananas and strawberries. Other highlights of my trip was the snorkeling, jet skiing and a wonderful trip to one of the largest butterfly farms in the world. St. Martin is the ideal location if you want a vacation that combines adventure in the sun with relaxing days on the beach or poolside at the villa. Add St. Martin to your list of places you need to go before you die. I definitely will be back. For more information on St. Martin, go to www.stmaarten.com. See my photos on page 41.

Deliciouly Fun Reading

peaking of deliciously fun summer reading, I wanted to share my review of one of the most amazing books I read while in St. Martin. Tab Hunter Confidential: The Making of a Movie Star was the perfect beach book. It is also a must read for anyone who has a love for old Hollywood. Tab Hunter details his personal and career highs and lows in eloquent detail that keeps the reader captivated. You do not need to be gay to enjoy this book, but as a gay man I found myself enthralled in Tab’s life going from pin-up boy in the 50‘s to the campy John Water‘s films of the 80‘s. As a reader, I enjoyed his sensitivity and honesty in this book so much so that I felt his pains and enjoyed his triumphs. And being a great follower of scandals in Hollywood, this book was filled with them. From his affair with Anthony Perkins and Rudolf Nuryev to his insights into the Hollywood machine, Hunter delivers the reader a dose of what it was like to be gay in Hollywood during the 1950‘s and beyond. Hunter also has some incredible anecdotes about gay life that I found touching. One of my favorite parts of the book is his description of working with Tallulah Bankhead in Tennessee Williams play The Milk Train Doesn’t Stop Here Anymore. The book is an easy read and moves quickly at a great pace. I highly recommend this mesmerizing novel. For more information on Tab Hunter’s life, go to www.tabhunter.com. Or to buy the book go to FAB bookstore at 600 Frenchmen Street for your copy. Remember support your local gay business, FAB’s phone number is

504.947.3700.

20th NO/AIDS Walk

he 20th Anniversary of the NO/AIDS Walk went off extremely well. Congratulations to all those involved in making it happen and who volunteered at the event. The Friday before the walk started with a cocktail reception in honor of Jack Mackenroth from the hit series Project Runway and Living Positive By Design. The reception was held at the exquisite home of Dr. Milton W. Seiler, Jr. and Marshall W. Lee. It was a beautiful evening filled with wonderful food and great conversation. Jack Mackenroth, who is HIV positive, has launched a national HIV and AIDS education campaign entitled Living Positive By Design in partnership with Merck & Co., Inc. Through this campaign, he hopes to help combat the stigma associated with HIV and highlight the importance for people living with HIV to have a positive outlook on life while effectively managing the disease. Jack is hosting Living Positive By Design events in collaboration with local physicians and AIDS service organizations. New Orleans was honored to have him in attendance at our walk and he spoke briefly about his experiences living with HIV for more than 20 years. He also had a booth set-up where he signed autographs and took pictures with many of his fans. After the reception on Friday night, I ended up running into Jack again at Oz, along with his wonderful team from Cohn and Wolfe. We had a great time hanging out and enjoying the wonderful Oz boys dancing on the bar. I found Jack to be very personable, entertaining and gracious. Sunday’s walk was greeted with amazing weather. There were lots of teams, great food vendors and Absolut drinks. My krewe of Satyricon, under the leadership of our current queen, Wedon, organized a team. The Boy Scout in me always like being prepared so I brought along my red ryder wagon which doubled as a rolling bar containing mimosas, bloody marys and screwdrivers. All the essentials for a morning stroll through Uptown. The walk and the party afterwards was a fantastic way to kick off my Sunday, as well as get a chance to see some of the architecture of the grand homes Uptown along the route. The Walk is also a great way to meet people from all walks of our community. What I love about the walk is the diversity among the participants, gay, straight, young, old, and every ethnicity. All these people come out in support of those afflicted with this terrible disease and to honor the memory of those who have passed from it. Another special note of gratitude should go out to two people Toby Lefort ($24,055) and Brian Sands ($9,430) who raised the most [continued on 26]

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 25

money for the walk respectively. Thank you for all your hard work. For more information on the task force, go to noaidstaskforce.com. And for more information on Living Positive By Design, please visit LivingPositiveByDesign.com.

Michael & Doug's Open House Bash

recently had an opportunity to see another wonderful home the other day, when Michael and Doug from the Lords of Leather hosted their open house. They live on North Rampart Street in the heart of the Bywater. Their home is an oasis, designed by the couple into a showplace. From their well manicured backyard with pool to their luxurious bathrooms, every detail of the house was well planned. And the home is perfect for entertaining which they did very well the other evening. The food was catered by the always wonderful Bywater BBQ and was served by some equally delectable servers in red dresses, Sable Nicole Starr and Coca. I enjoyed their guests thoroughly meeting several new people and catching up with people I have not seen in a while. Doug and Michael, your home is beautiful and I look forward to your next soiree.

Amon Ra's Mr. & Miss America Pageant

attended Amon Ra’s recent Mr. and Miss America Pageant at the Fine Arts Center at 1733 Constantinople in Uptown. It was a funfilled evening and I wanted to applaud them on the superb location to hold the event. The location positively added to the event with its great stage and second floor balcony. Location is important to an event, after a while, people do not want to go to the same place over and over again. Krewes need to be more creative in where they hold their fundraisers. The night started off with a wonderful rendition of God Bless America performed by the past Miss America, Miss Laquita Bonita Whatever Whatever Jenkins. Sorry I can only remember first and last names, if you have three first names you are on your own. Then the microphone was handed over to the incomparable emcee talents of Miss Opal Masters who kept the evening going a quick pace without any lag times. There were performances by the past Mr. America Nathan Brooks and a wonderful duet by the current King and Queen of Amon Ra, Nick Olivares and Rhonda Roget. The contestants had a good time with the pageant and kudos go out to all who participated. Winning the big night was Cody as Mr. America and Miss Gia as Miss America. But some of the highlights of

the night was evening gown by Kelly Chaisson in a Scarlett O’ Hara original and the line up of beefcake in the swim suit portion of Mr. America. For more information on upcoming Amon Ra functions, go to kreweofamonra.com. Speaking of having your next fundraiser at a unique location. I just recently attended the National Association of Catering Executives fund-raiser at the brand new Rock N’ Bowl in Midcity and it was a huge success. Bag of Donuts performed with their exuberant brand of entertainment. They were incredible and added energy to the entire event, not to mention they are very easy on the eyes in their tight little costumes. I remember there used to be a gay bowling league in this city, which I think fell by the wayside after Katrina. If anyone is interested in starting it up again, make sure Rock N’ Bowl is your place to do it. The facility is huge and now state of the art entertainment venue with their new lanes, fabulous bar and great menu. Hint, hint to krewes, this is a great pace to hold a fund-raiser and something totally unique. Even if you do not like bowling, this is an awesome place just to hang out. And to top it off it is very gay friendly since one of their managers is family. For more information on Rock N’ Bowl, go to www.rockandbowl.com.

Cocktailin’ @ B-Bob’s

Rick Rice with Miss Cie for Southern Renegades Fund-raiser

Lee with his buddies out for a cocktail Bob Brunson & B-Bob’s Show Director Miss Cie

Natl. Coming Out Day

ast but not least October 11 is coming up and it is a very important date for two reasons. It is first off my birthday and secondly it is National Coming Out Day. Can you imagine I was born on National Coming Out Day, really? I guess I was destined to be gay. But all joking aside, did you know that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth are up to four times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers, according to the Massachusetts 2006 Youth Risk Survey. A 2007 San Francisco State University Chavez Center Institute study shows that lgbt and questioning youth who come from a rejecting family are up to nine times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers. And for every completed suicide by a young person, it is estimated that 100 to 200 attempts are made. These are very disturbing statistics and up to us as a community to be there for young people when they make their decision to come up. Be a sounding board, listen to them, give them a shoulder for support, and most of all mentor them along their way. Coming out differs for everyone, but most importantly, you should let a person come out at their own pace, never force the issue. Just be something to them we all need in this world as we find our place, a friend. Happy National Coming Out Day!

Miss Loretta & Michelle with Miss Cie @ Club Evolution in Foley

mobile

paparazzi PaPa Cherry performing @ B-Bob’s

Travis, Judson, Bacchus owner Rick, Miss Cie & Jayme, out & about @ Bacchus

Miss Cie & Bacchus owner Stevie

The beautiful Amy Demilo from Tampa, Florida @ B-Bob’s

The girls are all here @ B-Bob’s

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

The Action ~ Mobile, Foley, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John

under the gaydar ...from 24

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27

900

LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 MOLLY'S ON TOULOUSE, 732 Toulouse 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 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

1000

body rubs

CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

TOULOUSE

600

RAMPART

500

BURGUNDY

ROYAL

ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

400

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

ST. PHILIP

URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300 ESPLANADE

classifieds

1800 19 FR

EN 00 C EL H 2 YS 1 0 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

M AR IG NY

23 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

RT PA M RA

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

autos Metairie, LA [504] WALKER ACURA, 8951 Veterans Blvd., 464.4004, WalkerAcura.COM

bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900, gabrielsdowntown.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

JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson, 264.8000 THE SOUND FACTORY, 209 Jefferson St., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, www.4seasonsno.com BYWATER PATIO BAR, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 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 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 KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735 LE PHARE, 523 Gravier St.

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 [is2009] GUY NEXT DOOR - WM avail for full body rubdowns starting @ $60 for Fr Qutr area. All other areas, add'l fee. 24 hrs. Out calls only, 616.334.1432 [is2009]

bookstores 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 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

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

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

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is2209]

circuit/events 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 Sept. 1-6, 2010, 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

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

counseling 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

erotica SYKCOR EROTICA, 225.933.0686, SykcorErotica.COM, sykcorerotica@aol.com

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

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

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

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

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

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] MOMS MINI MART, 902 Poydras, 596.2223 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 BAR-

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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] 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] SUPER 8, 6322 Chef Menteur Hwy., 504.241.5650, 800.800.8000. Minutes from the French Quarter, the hotel offers free continental breakfast, covered parking, high speed wireless internet, local calls, guest laundry, smoking and non smoking rooms, outdoor pool, mini fridge, microwave on request, and independent shuttle company. 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

BER & 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 OFADEAN SALONSPA & WELLNESS CENTER, 536 Bienville St., 522.3318, ofadeansalonspa.com SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur St., 565.5555, salondmalta.com

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 [is1709]

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. [0810] CRESCENT PALMS MOTEL, 3923 Martin Luther King Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70125; PHONE: 504.821.7773, FAX: 504.267.7366,

massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website www.righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2/2010]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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 & 25 year old Kody avail. 24/7, 504.756.9443 [is2009]

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTSAND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION,

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29

1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org 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 OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504]

ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 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

FRIDAYNIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A

Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, E-mail: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 70156-6836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. 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 agents 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

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

30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31

Embers Original Bourbon House, 700 Bourbon, 523.1485 Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans The Pelican Club, 312 Exchange Alley, 523.1504, PelicanClub.COM Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416 Tiramisu 55 Restaurant & Bar, 123 Carondelet, 581.3288

retail/shopping Baton Rouge, LA [225] JAMES & KYLE ANTIQUES, 3875 Government St. 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 LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423, laminasterling@gmail.com 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

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

tours New Orleans, LA [504] STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ, Toulouse Street Dock, 568.1401, SteamboatNatchez.COM

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] LE PETIT THEATRE DU VIEUX CARRE, 616 St. Peter, 522.2081 MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, 525.1052, mahaliajacksontheater.com

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

Southern Decadence Highlights SouthernDecadence.COM

alexandria, olympus style Upcoming Events at Olympus Bar

ust want to give you a heads up on what's happening at Olympus Bar these days and some events that are coming up. Tuesdays are now All Day Happy Hour. Wednesday is karaoke New Orleans Style with DJ Rikki and DJ P from 9pm till the last singer drops. Thursday is now Service Industry Night. Friday is $2 and $3 Night at the bar... come in and get drunk cheap and have a good time! Last weekend, Olympus had a celebrity filled drag show going on with MGLA 2005 Dominique DeLorean, Miss Gay Central Louisiana America Marsheya St. Clair, and all the way from

Monroe, Louisiana, the utterly fabulous Maxi Lamonte! This Saturday, October 3, Olympus is hosting a Benefit Show for Bambi Bexter, 1st Alternate to Miss Gay Louisiana America to help her on her way to Miss Gay America in St. Louis. On Sunday, October 4, Olympus is excited to have the wonderful Bonnie Bitch in the bar. Bonnie Bitch is a female impersonator, comedian, and hypnotist. The show will kick on at 9pm and there's a $10 cover for everyone. Don't miss Olympus' first Turnabout Drag Show October 17, and Olympus' big Halloween Illusion Show and Costume Contest October 31. The winner will receive a $100 bar tab!!!

GE T THE WHOL E PIC TURE!?! GET WHOLE PICT The D iffer ence… Differ ifference…

Ev er y Edition On-line Ever EVERY AD! EVERY COLUMN! EVERY PHOTO! EVERY NEWS STORY!

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

Business! Success! Longevity! Over 650,000 Readers in Print & Over 3.5 Million Readers On-line

On-line statistics independently verified.

828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans •504.522.8049 • marsha@ripandmarsha.com

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Cassidy & the Olympus Str8 Bois!!!

Fabulous, Finalists, Circus direct from Olympus Bar ~ Alexandria, Louisiana

Lucinda Majors

alexandria

paparazzi

Lucinda & Sable

Sable Monay looking fabulous

Big Bear & Little Bear

Chelsea Shows she is a loyal Ambush reader!!!

Hot Man Meat Finalists

Everyone’s favorite bartenders

Mary Jane Sparxx takes us to the Circus

Miss Gay Louisiana America 2009 Cassidy St. James

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33

acadiana

paparazzi

The Divas with their new rise to stardom at Sound Factory Joe chilling by the dance floor at Jules Downtown

The dance floor is hoppin’ at Jules Downtown

Miss Valerie being a Diva Hostess at Jules Downtown

Miss Scott & Jamie at Sound Factory Sound Factory’s Sunday night line-up for Troy’s B-day show

Just from a different angle

The paparazzi of the night at Sound Factory Stephen & Mitch posing for the crowd at Jules Downtown

Of course the ladies, can’t forget them at Jules Downtown

Troy after we all sang to him at Sound Factory

The crowd just kept coming at Sound Factory The crowd at Jules Downtown Ben n Sam showing their love at Jules Downtown Errruhhh!

Miss Kira made her special appearance for Troy at Sound Factory

Yes, we are ready for our close ups at Sound Factory...

Justin all cheesy for the camera at Jules Downtown

The Birthday Queen with her crown at Jules Downtown

34 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Close-Ups, Posing ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins

Keebler & Miss Jasmine SX at Sound Factory

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

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

looked back as we exited the restaurant, and he was still standing there – smiling – and probably wondering who in the world I was and what in the world I could possibly say from our brief meeting. Well, Casey, let me just inform you now that I see a beautiful human being in you, a magnificent example of humanity, something even noble in your presence. Maybe [continued on 41]

Casey Hot!

t has been quite some time since I really flipped out over a gorgeous young man. I wasn’t feeling that well when I headed out to the restaurant on Market Street, but when the light of my life walked up to the table, I sort of perked up – in more ways than one. I used to do this frequently when I was a youngster, but age has settled me down a little, or at least I thought it had. I never saw this young man in my life, but his smile just completely wilted me into total helplessness. John, Ken,

Casey at Woodhouse Fish Company

and Wayne were with me, and their reactions were the same. It was Ken who looked at me and said “Casey – HOT!” That did it. I knew I wasn’t imagining things. Every time he came by the table or asked what else he could do for us, I just wanted to stand up and grab that youngster and turn him every which way but loose. All through the meal, I couldn’t stop watching him. Besides being knockdown gorgeous, it was that outstanding smile and superb personality that really sealed the deal, so to speak. Even his glasses added a masculine touch and extra charm to his face. Casey has a nice body, really outstanding (from what I could see), so I really can’t say what was beneath the clothing. I can only imagine! Mentally undressing someone is easy, but actually observing the finer points of a personality is more difficult. Yet, with Casey, I found him easy to describe. He was definitely one of the most gracious little studs I’ve seen in quite some time, and I have to say that he could easily be termed perfect. However, I can’t verify this, but I just have a feeling he is more than an adorable little stud. His beauty easily came from within that perfectly molded example of manhood. He was intelligent, and you could tell this by the way he talked to people in our area of the restaurant and to us. He was knowledgeable on all subjects aimed his way, and his expertise at promoting certain dishes was really remarkable. He made you want to eat everything on the menu. Did he ever! With that winning smile, and the brief times I spoke with him, I can assure you that he is courteous, an admirable trait, and it wasn’t because he was at work. It was because this is his way. This is Casey. After our meal was completed and we were about to leave, I shocked him by telling him I would write him up and send him a clipping or an entire copy of Ambush. Up to this point, he was unaware and had no idea I would surprise him with this news. Still in a state of shock at a perfect stranger saying this to him, I noticed an immediate smile, a different kind of smile, one that showed even more confidence than before. Would you really send a copy to me, he had asked. Of course, I had replied. I

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

ctober is a month that we all begin to ready ourselves for Halloween and since Halloween is the day of the dead, we should also take time to recall our history, not just our deceased. October is Gay History Month and National Coming Out Day, so with that in mind, we should recall all the turning points and people that brought us to where we are today. Research and studying never hurt anyone, it only enhances your strength on “who” you are as a person, so give it a try, do some research and see what you can learn about the Gay Life in and around Lafayette. Well besides keeping things going, we should all stop and give a round of applause to the man that has kept us a part of Lafayette downtown nightlife for the last fifteen to twenty years strong. That’s right ladies and gentlemen, John Gilland is a part of our history here and without him and his willingness, where would we be today, would we have any gay bars downtown? Finally, after many years we now once again have two places, Sound Factory and Jules Downtown, and both we can say are Gay owned and operated, and to that we are grateful. This month Sound Factory presents the Fab Five, which is a tribute show to the drag queens that have paved the way for any one person to get in a dress, throw on some make-up, and a wig and walk the streets with nothing more than smirks and under the breath comments, to which we pay no mind to. Keep in mind, however, the ladies that have paved the way did not have it so easy, they are the ones that had to hide so you can now shine. October is definitely a month to remember and one to get ready for as well, from Bonnie Bitch hosting her comedy hypnosis show, to a hot Toga Party, to a Fab Five spectacular, to many other new and great things to get ready for only at Sound Factory. We are on the frontier of many great things, Sound Factory is heating up from the fabulous Sunday Shows to Jessie’s Monday night showings, to really fantastic nights out downtown Lafayette. Let’s not forget Sound factory’s Birthday is October 31st , so Halloween night will definitely be a night to come and join us as we trick ~ or ~ treat you with some haunting spectacular partying, bring the dead alive. Jules Downtown has an action packed calendar as well featuring Drag with Valerie Sugarbaker October 2, and DJ Tyler on October 3. You won't want to miss their big Disco Drag Show October 9 and their fab Moulin Rouge Party October 10. If you come dressed in Moulin Rouge attire, you get in absolutely free. And you can start off your Wednesday through Saturday nights at Jules with only $2 well and domestic beer till 9pm. Keep your eyes and ears open to all that is to come your way and hopefully everyone will take Pride in who we are and research our history here in Lafayette. Until next time, have a great time out and be safe and keep your eyes to the stars, never know where I’ll be with that camera.

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

A wonderful welcome at the door of Crystal’s

Of course Chad found the camera Mr. Billy even took time for the camera

Grrrhhhhh!

Some people just wanting to say what’s up Ambush???

Our dance team, lol, working it out

Tonya Alexander & her pimp daddy for the night

Dance floor is hoppin’ Now everybody together, smile

Jessie & Matty

Robert doing what he does best

lake charles paparazzi

Now this is our diva for the evening

Crowd shot by the bar

They’re ready to pile in over here John & his SBB

And the smiles just keep coming

And Nikki found the camera as well...lol

Busted...I mean Buster out of town partying, lol

And again with some close friends

38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Nightlife at Crystal’s ~ Lake Charles, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins

Together again

red stick paparazzi

Ken, John & Wayne at Woodhouse Fantastic bartenders Michael & Luther

Acadiana Tommy at Decadence

Gettin’ Around ~ Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Tommy with David from Lafayette

Having fun at George’s

Richard in New Orleans

Super stud BCBoy San Francisco Kiley

Todd & Luther

Rocky & Guy

Richard & Johnny

Guy & Sweet William

Struttin’ on the bar

John, Walt & Rick

Kingly John with Stephen

Enjoying night of fun John & Damon in San Francisco

The dancer & the door man

David & Goliath?

Phil, Richard, John & BCBoy

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 39

snap paparazzi

Driver extraordinaire John in St. Martin’s Gay Club Eros

Entertainer of the Year Coca performs for Drag Survivor at Oz

Travel ~ St. Martin in the Caribbean ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

Tony at the villa in St. Martin’s

Local Boys at Eros in St. Martin Marcy & Al watch as Dwain makes his birthday wish at JohnPaul’s

Drag Survivor Contestant Felina Colby Shane & Torch Boy Kevin at Oz

Contessa Christine Breaux with Honey at villa in St. Martin’s

My special St. Martin friend

Celebratin’ birthdays at Drag Survivor

Limitless Designs & NO/AIDS Task Force’s Divas & Drag: Under the Big Top

Room with a view in St. Martin

Divas & Drag raises over $4,000 for NO/AIDS Walk

Partying at Club Eros in St. Martin Oz Drag Survivor Contestant Candi Fox

Hottie bartender Loic & owner of Eros Nanou

Owner of Eros in St. Martin Nanou (r) with her son Roland, the resident DJ

Sunset in St. Martin

Bag of Donuts Base Player with Valerie at Rock N Bowl

Divas & Drag’s own “Cher”

40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Gettin’ Around ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Nathan Brooks, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio

Drag Survivor Contestant Sha N’yia Ellis Narcisse at Oz

hot tails of red stick ...from 36 if I ever return to San Francisco, I can meet with you again. As for now, you have my wishes for a happy and prosperous future. All signals spell success. You just have to make it happen, and I know you will do just that. Casey, my friend, you are truly a HOT little guy. Mercy!

Kiley Catch Up

he last time I saw Kiley was at Splash. In fact, it was shortly before he left for San Francisco for a new life and new future in this City by the Bay. He doesn’t live in the city but to the north and across the Golden Gate Bridge. In fact, instead of driving into the city, he boards the ferry to get to work in the downtown financial district. From all indications, he is thoroughly pleased with his life here in California. I asked him if he kept up with things in Baton Rouge, and he does – with none other that that outrageously delicious heartthrob Lance. Of course, there are others, and he is even planning a trip back for a visit around Christmas. That should make for a nice homecoming. I met Kiley quite a few years ago. I liked him immediately. In fact, one of the most fun nights I ever had was with him. Well, it wasn’t just him. There were about five of us, enjoying Mardi Gras, and I have a great picture somewhere with all of us tangled up in bed. Them – not me. I took the picture. The first time I was really around Kiley for any length of time was even before the Mardi Gras period. It was at Joe and Les’ home for a Krewe of Apollo meeting. It’s really nice to look back and recall these good times, and on that day Kiley was the life of the party – oops – meeting. For those of you who attend Apollo balls, you may remember what I consider to be one of the best re-creations ever of a costume from a movie. Remember “The Fifth Element?” Well, Kiley came out as Diva Plavalaguna, and he brought the house down. It could easily have been Maiwenn Le Besco, who originated the part in the movie. Of all the costumes I recall to this day, I do believe this one stands out the most. And this wasn’t the only time our friend Kiley shook up the troops. He was on roller skates one year, fell on his rear, got up and continued as if nothing had happened. He pulled that off with perfection too. It isn’t surprising to see Kiley making it big in the City by the Bay. I really think the move did him good not only professionally but in his own growth at being out and about in a big city. He seems to have met his calling, and I have no doubts that we haven’t heard the last of his accomplishments. I will definitely keep track of this outstanding guy, and I’ll always report my findings

back to you. Here’s wishing you loads of luck and successes in the future, Kiley. You are one of the most deserving individuals I know. It just couldn’t be happening to a nicer guy.

Ducote Connection

ohn Ducote left our lovely capital city some 27 years ago along with other half Ken. I’ve kept up with them through mutual friends, but I never really got to know either one of them on a personal level. That is a loss as I found them to be two great guys, and we have so many interests in common. We really confused TTT because as the pictures were taken at Woodhouse Fish Company, Ken was sending them directly to him and to me for my files. It was amazing how many friends we have in common, and the old times kept coming back as we continued our meal. Of course, Casey was a major distraction but in a good way. All four of us were drooling, including the fourth member of the party, Wayne. It is sometimes unusual how things fall into place. Last winter, I had a Red Epiphyllum blooming in my utility room, and I took pictures and posted them on Facebook. That is where John saw the pictures, got in touch with me, and I finally got him pieces to place in a hanging basking in his garden. This all took place over dinner and drooling and recalling old times. As long as TTT had been talking about me, John and Ken failed to get the connection I had with Hibiscus Bookstore. It finally all fell into place, so in all those 27 years when they were keeping up with me, they failed to realize I was the same one they used to talk to at Hibiscus. That’s so strange to know someone for so long and yet not realize it. I, in turn, recalled them from Apollo functions, and they were so pleased when I mentioned that Sam was a good friend. They too were friends of Sam all those years ago, and they asked about Larry Fremin and others in Apollo. I even learned that Howard, who lives on Spanish Town Road is a good friend. John and Ken live in Oakland, and I didn’t get to see their home, but I hear it has a marvelous view of the bay. They also have a home in Mexico too. It seems that California has treated them kindly. I don’t know exactly how to describe their jobs, but I do know that John is into quality assurance in the pharmaceutical industry, and Ken is a web designer and formerly in the Bio Tech markets. I believe that Wayne is into the tech industry too, maybe as a chief information officer. If you need clarification on any of this, I’m afraid you will have to ask them directly. It was difficult taking notes while enjoying the sights and sounds of San Francisco. As I recall, John was the first openly gay delegate to the 1984 Democratic National Convention in San Francisco,

and he was living here in Baton Rouge at the time. That same year, Mary Jones was the first openly lesbian representative. He asked if I knew her, and even though I recall the name and the delegate status, I am afraid I don’t know where she is now. Perhaps some reader can come forth with the information. John would like to hear from her. This all turned into one of the best reunion-type gatherings I’ve experienced in a long time. I am so happy those blooms brought us all together once more. After all, if this hadn’t happened, how would I have ever met that wonderful and sweet Casey?

Lonely Boy

evin went with me to San Francisco. It was a combotype trip – wine country, Tibetan shopping, and bird watching. I came down with a sinus infection so I didn’t make it to the bird watching phase with the two Kevins. (His friend was also named Kevin.) Actually, I managed to make do and came up with a coffee shop acquaintance – on the next block from the hotel. I’ll just call him LB, for Lonely Boy. He was there the first time I walked in, and the girl at the register asked me where I was from because of my accent. He overheard my response, but he didn’t say anything. As I drank my coffee, our eyes kept meeting – me by the corner window with LB at the last table along the wall. I drank my coffee slowly, watching him as he read his book. I assumed he was a student. It was Saturday, and he was in jeans and sport shirt. He had those little reading glasses that made him look so cute and intelligent. His head was shaved, and you could tell that at his early age that he had a receding hairline. His eyes were dark, perhaps brown, something I couldn’t tell from my vantage point. I finished my coffee and rather than embarrass myself, I decided to make my way back to the hotel. He watched me, and I wondered what he was thinking. The next day I went for my afternoon coffee, same time, and there he was – at a closer table. I ordered, took my coffee to my corner table, and sat down to enjoy the view - and him. I could tell he kept watching me, and I tried to keep from making eye contact. I don’t know why. I should have just invited him back to my room, but I didn’t. He was again dressed casually, and it wasn’t until he stood up to get a sandwich that I noted a bulge that would indicate a freeballer. I almost spilled my coffee because of that wonderful view. Again, because I wasn’t feeling that great, I chose to go back to my room – alone. The following day, I had to get things packed and ready to head back to Baton Rouge, but I had to have a nice morning cup of coffee, same place, same table. He did not show up as I had hoped. I was almost ready to head back to the room when I glanced out the

window to my left, and there he was, walking by, nicely dressed in black, with a backpack, shoes polished and shining, and probably heading for school or work. Our eyes met, but he kept walking. I watched as he passed the hotel where I was staying and then out of sight. What a lovely sight I had those three days. My Lonely Boy was now gone, probably forever. After all, it’s such a long way to go for a cup of coffee. The incident did remind me of something that happened in Boston several years ago. There was another lonely boy there. I was on my way to a restaurant, walking from my hotel, and even though it was dark, I found the area to be relatively safe and nearby to the hotel where I was staying. This lonely boy was neatly dressed, perhaps heading for one of the bars. We didn’t speak. I just recall the look on his face, and the details are still with me today. I’ve met lots of people along the way during my lifetime. I find that sometimes it is best not to pursue your desires especially if you are in unfamiliar territory. I suppose that is how it has been all my life. Maybe I’m the lonely boy.

In Memoriam

t was tragic to return to Baton Rouge and learn of the drownings in Florida. When I first heard the news, I didn’t realize they were from Red Stick. Then I learned their names, and memories came flooding back. Charles McKenzie was such a nice guy, always friendly when I ran into him at Hibiscus Bookstore and later on when I would dine at the Cake Palace on Essen Lane. I hadn’t seen him recently, but I recall so many conversations with him. I didn’t know Peter Landry, his lover, that well, but I do know he was frequently seen at Mardi Gras balls. In fact, I think the last time I saw him was at the Royal Order of Unicorn Ball in Lafayette last year. He and Charles were often seen at the old Mirror Lounge. I remember them both. All their friends here will miss them and recall all the good times. That’s what we have to do now. Goodbye my friends. Goodbye forever.

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 41

ambush

Pageants, Action ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Regina & Lee Adams-Mullen, Gary Glitter

Miss Elysian Fields Contestants Heaven Lee, Tanisha St. James, Barbara Ella, Miss Beautiful & Bubbles Champagne

Miss Elysian Fields judges Darwin Reed, Regina Adams & Miss Louisiana Leatherette Cathy Fox

The NO/AIDS Walk passing the Whole Foods water & juice stop along the route

Top Individual Fund-raisers: 2nd place Brian Sands $9,430 & 1st place Toby Lefort $24,055

Madam Elysian Fields Judges Amon Ra's Keny Fernandez, Rusty Downing & Friendly Bar's Marty Curtin

Madam Elysian Fields Contestants Lady Hope, Chlamydia Nora Clapp & Rhonda Roget

Lyndsey Young, T.J. Rogers & Chad Stelly of NO/AIDS Task Force Team Petronius

Brian & Jonathan embracing on the bar at The Corner Pocket

First Miss & Madam Elysian Fields Barbara Ella & Rhonda Roget hosted by JohnPaul’s

Some of the many Volunteers who help make the NO/AIDS Walk possible

Team Satyricon

Corner Pocket dancer Danny throwing a kiss Kathleen Gross, Daryl Dunaway & J.P. Gautier working the Coffee Express tent

Marcy Marcell gives us a glamour shot at Miss & Madam Elysian Fields

Jack Mackenroth from Project Runway at Seiler home flanked by Noel Twilbeck from NO/AIDS Task Force & Ambush’s Tony Leggio for the Walk Meet & Greet

Miss & Madam Elysian Fields emcees Opal Masters & Elizabeth Bouvier

Eric on the bar at The Corner Pocket

Queen Satyricon VII Wedon Brown & Troy at the Walk

Project Runway’s Jack Mackenroth welcomed by GM Tommy Elias at Dance Club of the Year Oz

42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

20th NO/AIDS Walk Raises over $165,000 ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, NO/AIDS Task Force

paparazzi

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 43

44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • September 29-October 12, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM