Ambush magazine volume 28 issue 05 by Ambush Publishing

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Marc h 2-15, 2010 • Offic ial Gay East er Parade Guide • GayEast erParade.COM

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

2nd Eggstravaganza March 6 at Billy's; 8th Spring Fever March 13 at 4 Seasons

he 11th annual Gay Easter Parade is Sunday, April 4 beginning at 4:30pm sharp. Chuck Turner and Tittie Toulouse will lead the parade and all festivities as Easter Grand Marshals XI. The first fundraiser this year is the 2nd Eggstravaganza Show & Auction, under the direction of Opal Masters,set for Saturday, March 6, 10pm at Billy’s, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, Slidell. There is a $5 door donation and it will feature a fabulous Easter Basket Auction, Easter Treasures Auction, 50/50 Raffle, Egg Raffles and Buffet. Celebrity MCs and stars Big Mama and King Cake Queen XVII Opal Masters will certainly lead a marvelous field of entertainment including EGM XI Tittie Toulouse, Miss Louisiana Leatherette Cathy Fox, KCQ XVI Tami Tarmac, EGM IX Safonda Peters, EGM IV Electra City, Amon-Ra Prom Queen Alexis Daniels, Miss LSGRA Elizabeth Bouvier & Miss Elysian Fields Barbara Ella and more! The second function is the 8th Annual Spring Fever: A Star Studded Benefit Gala & Auction (500 Years of Drag Celebrating Tittie's 50th Birthday), under the direction of Electra City and Tittie Toulouse, set for Saturday, March 13, 10pm at 4 Seasons, 3229 N. Causeway, Metairie. Both Electra City and Tittie Toulouse will star and emcee the festive evening. There's a $5 door donation and it features a fabulous Easter Basket Auction, Easter Treasures Auction including the beautiful musical Butterfly Egg and plush Bunnies Auction along with Egg Raffles as well. VIP Tables at $25 a piece are available (contact Electra and Tittie for table sales). This event will bring EGM V Princesse Stephaney, Starr Daniels, Kellie Chaisson, Zsa Zsa d’LaHor, EGM VII Opal Masters, EGM IX Safonda Peters, EGM X Marcy Marcell and more to the stage. Other scheduled events include: Saturday, March 20, 8-10pm, 9th Annual Super Star Studded Drag Extravaganza & Auction, under the direction of Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain, JohnPaul’s, 940 Elysian Fields, New Orleans; Saturday, March 27, 8-10pm, 11th Annual Purple Party: Official Easter Grand Marshals Reception, Buffet & Auction, hosted by the Gay Easter Parade Board of Directors, The Double Play, 439 Dauphine, New Orleans; Friday, April 2nd, time and place TBA, 1st Good Friday Event, under the direction of Tom "Rona" Conners & Tony Leggio; Easter Sunday, April 4, 3-4:30pm, Pre-Parade Party, Line-up & Buffet, Starlight By The Park, 834 N. Rampart St., New Orleans; 4:30pm, 11th Gay Easter Parade, through the streets of the French Quarter; and 5:30pm til, Post-Parade Party & Buffet, 700 Club, 700 Burgundy, New Orleans. Sponsorships are already arriving including: $1,000-Platinum: Elizabeth Bouvier/FourPlay, John Vignone & Paul Chiriaco/ JohnPaul's Bar; $500-Gold: Queen Amon-Ra XLIV Rhonda & David Roget; $250-Silver: King & Queen Amon-Ra XLV David Aranda & Daryl Dunaway Jr., EGM IX Safonda Peters & Stuart Nettles, EGM XVIII Tom "Rona" Conners & Bob Boler, King Cake Queen XVII & EGM VII Opal Masters & Darwin Reed; $100-Bronze: EGM X Tony Leggio, Dwain Hertz & Al Dugas, Glenn O'Berry & Roger Copenhaver, Starr Daniels & Justin Moffatt; and Venue/In-Kind: 4 Seasons, 700 Club, Billy's, Double Play, JohnPaul's, Starlight By The Park. You can get your sponsorship forms and parade entry forms on-line at GayEasterParade.COM or by calling 504.522.8049, or picking one up at Ambush, 828-A Bourbon Street,10am-4pm, Monday through Friday. The parade minus expenses benefits Food For Friends, a vital service of the NO/AIDS Task Force. Past parades have raised over $63,643 for charity. The Board of Directors of the Gay Easter Parade includes Electra City, Tom “Rona” Conners, Tony Leggio, Opal Masters, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, and Tittie Toulouse. Past Grand Marshals include EGMs I Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, EGMs II Larry Bagneris and the late Miss Do Moreland, EGMs III Timm Holt and TerylLynn Foxx, EGMs IV George Simons and Electra City, EGMs V Brett Messmer and Princesse Stephaney, EGMs VI James Swire and Lisa Beaumann, and EGMs VII Doc Reed and Opal Masters. EGMs VIII Michael Elias and Tom “Rona” Conners, EGMs IX Orlando Aloe and Safonda Peters, and EGMs X Tony Leggio

Pre-Easter Issue out Mar. 16th DEADLINE: Tuesday, Mar. 9th

inside sappho psalm the pink pastor under the gaydar celebrazzi mardi gras bead toss paparazzi bourbon st. awards paparazzi trodding the boards chop chop/nola restaurant guide satyricon ball paparazzi amon-ra ball, fnbmg paparazzi classifieds hot tails of red stick/baton rouge

8 9 10 16 18 20 22 22 23 24 26 29

red stick paparazzi/baton rouge acadiana paparazzi/lafayette acadiana happens/lafayette mobile paparazzi alexandria paparazzi armeinius ball paparazzi lords of leather ball paparazzi

30 32 34 34 35 36 38

Gay East er Parade GayEasterParade.COM

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

and Marcy Marcell.

State Health Care Budget Cuts Include a 50% Reduction in HIV Prevention Funds; $1.2 Million Cut Comes at a Time When It Is Most Needed

ew Orleans - AIDS service organizations and HIV prevention programs across Louisiana learned that their meager budgets will have to be trimmed even more in the face of a loss of state and federal funding totaling $1.2 million. This comes at a time when Louisiana currently ranks 5th in the nation for AIDS case rates and two of its cities, New Orleans and Baton Rouge, are ranked 2nd and 3rd in AIDS case rates, respectively. The 50% reduction of funds means that there will have to be cuts made across the board to services and programs such as HIV testing and counseling, health education, materials distribution and outreach efforts, many of which are specifically targeted at those populations at the greatest risk for contracting HIV. “HIV prevention works,” stated Jean Redmann, Director of Prevention at NO/ AIDS Task Force. “In the course of the epidemic in the U.S. we’ve reduced new infections from around 150,000 per year to around 50,000 per year. Additionally, studies indicate that it costs between $5,000 to $49,000 to prevent a case of HIV. Compare that to a lifetime treatment cost of $618,000 per individual. That’s a savings of over half a million dollars for each case prevented. The cost of two infections prevented would be equal to the state budget cuts. It’ll only save a very little in the short term. But in the long term it will cost Louisiana money — and lives.” “The sad fact of the matter is that Louisiana is staring at potential massive health care cuts in future months. Cutting funds from prevention efforts that are proven to work and reduce the cost of health care seems illogical” commented Noel Twilbeck, NO/AIDS Task Force’s CEO. Twilbeck went on to say “While this isn’t the first time agencies have seen the funds reduced for their programs, finding ways to fill those gaps will prove more difficult than in years past. In 2009 we saw a drop in charitable giving, and it’s not clear whether the trend will continue in [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] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP: 650,000+ in print/3.5 Million+ On-line NATIONAL CIRCULATION: USA... Alabama-Birmingham, Foley, Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg Texas - Austin

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 Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Jeff Palmquist-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, DJ Chromatic, 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. ©1982-2010, 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 • Marc h 2-15, 2010 • Offic ial Gay East er Parade Guide • GayEast erParade.COM

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the "official" dish ...from 4 2010. Many corporate and private foundations saw a loss in assets which translates to fewer dollars available.” “People need to know that HIV prevention not only saves lives, it saves money. If we are going to be proactive in healthcare and in educating our community about their health, then people need to know that this is a priority. The key to solving this problem is going to be finding sources to replace funding in the short term, and making our elected officials aware that HIV prevention saves the taxpayers money, in order to prevent any future cuts.”

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Federal Appeals Court Tells Louisiana To Issue Birth Certificate To Adopted Child Of Gay Couple

ew Orleans - A federal ap peals court issued a decision today requiring the state of Louisiana to issue a birth certificate to the adopted child of a gay couple, naming both of the adoptive parents. The following is a statement from Marjorie Esman, Executive Director of the ACLU of Louisiana, which filed a friend-ofthe-court brief in the case. The parents, Oren Adar and Mickey Smith, were represented by Lambda Legal in the case Adar v. Smith. “We are pleased that the court saw through the political grandstanding of our attorney general and did the right thing for this boy and his parents. It was shameful that Attorney General Caldwell took such extreme measures to deny a small child a proper birth certificate simply because he didn’t like the boy’s parents. Hopefully this decision will make him think twice before wasting taxpayer money to defend his anti-gay activism.”

Beauregard-Keyes House Fundraiser set for March 13

he board of directors, volu-n teers and staff of the Beauregard-Keyes House have finalized plans for the annual fund raising event—An Evening at the Beauregard-Keyes House. The soiree will be held Saturday, March 13, from 7 to 10pm at the house, which is located at 1113 Chartres Street in the French Quarter. Tickets to attend the event are $40, and can be obtained by calling the house at 504.523.7257, or at the door. The house and courtyard will be open, and attendees will be treated to food, refreshments, and music in a candlelight setting. A silent auction and a parade of prizes will be offered that evening.

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Gay Games Cologne 2010 Worldwide Call for Volunteers

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ologne, Germany - Even if you can’t spike a volley ball, play the trumpet, or get a “perfect 10” off the high dive, the 2010 Gay Games has a way for you to “Be A Part Of It!” Gay Games VIII, 31 July to 7 August 2010 in Cologne, Germany, is recruiting volunteers from around the world to be part of the globe’s largest LGBT sports & cultural event. “At the heart of the Gay Games are the approximately three thousand volunteers who make the Gay Games run like clockwork,” said Emy Ritt, CoPresident of the Federation of Gay Games. “Volunteers are the ones who are ‘backstage’ organizing, managing, supporting and assisting at the sports and cultural events all week long. Gay Games volunteers get to meet people from all over the world, and gain valuable experience at this week-long festival. It’s truly a great cultural experience!” Volunteers are needed in all areas. Up to 12,000 artists and athletes from more than 70 countries are expected at Gay Games VIII Cologne

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9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. 2010 Sports & Cultural Festival. To volunteer, visit www.gamescologne.com, click “Take Part” and then “Volunteer” to enter the online volunteer sign-up portal. (In Deutsch, www.games-cologne.de. “If you’re lucky enough to experience freedom and equality in your home town, volunteer work is a great opportunity to help others experience this freedom in Cologne,” said Annette Wachter, CEO of Games Cologne. “Your help can also have a hand in showing the world that there is more to LGBT life than parties and parades.” In addition to the good will and great experience, benefits for volun-

teers include reduced price admissions, special uniforms, surprise events and parties, and certificates for participation. Some companies provide for release time and credit for volunteer work, so check with your employer for additional benefits. All travel and lodging costs must be borne by the volunteer, though volunteers can apply for hosted housing. (Hosted housing priority is given to participants.)

Reach the Market Am bush 5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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sappho psalm by Toni J.P. Pizanie Email: psalmwrite@att.net

Hi! Vic

ic is one of the many new “friends” I made in front of JohnPaul’s on Mardi Gras Day; one of the best celebrations I’ve experienced in many years. I hope you all had a wonderful and safe day. Thanks to Ray and Barry Marino I had no discomfort getting to and from the Ambush Balcony. The best place to celebrate during this huge free party. From on high, I could see that this years’ crowd was more festive than in years past. And they were just as willing to have a good time, and show for a throw. Rip and Marsha once again out did themselves with throws and food and a happy atmosphere. The party at JohnPaul’s was as festive as the one on the Bourbon Street balcony. My newest best balcony buddy is Tami Tarmac. She and I teamed up to demand the crowd show or go. Thanks to Russell down on the street we got lots of help with the ladies this year. Lords’ Gary Vandeventer and Tim Lott were surprised by my boldness. They are used to the sweet Toni not dominatrix Toni. How do they think I won those Leather Titles?

our stage. Michael is a local producer and actor who has assisted many local actors, writers and theatre personnel. If you would like to entertain for NOLA Pride, leave your name, phone number and email address at the Community Center with instructions to be given to Michael. Michael can also be contacted on FaceBook. Within the next two weeks, we will be taking reservations for vendors’ booths. Your organization should plan to have a game or food table – Petronius is signing up for that. It would be a thrill to see all the krewes supporting Pride with a booth. Organizations are also invited to take part – PFLAG, NO/AIDS Task Force, Forum for Equality and all others. Information booths

are very important to present a complete Pride experience. If you want a booth, please contact me at Psalmwrite@att.net or through FaceBook. Events will also be held at local bars and private homes to raise money. Drag shows will be held in the Marigny and French Quarter to support NOLA Pride. Check the listings in Ambush for time and place or at NOLAPride.ORG.

Census – Warning

010 is Census year and with it comes scams from the workers we are asked to trust. A warning from the BBB (Better Business Bureau) warns against giving out too much important information. We are required to give our names, addresses, and number of people living in the house/apartment ONLY. If asked for your Social Security Number, refuse. If asked for ages, income or other personal information, refuse. It seems that some workers are taking this additional information and using it to steal money from bank accounts and the like.

Be very careful when giving out any information. Be cooperative with census takers but also be smart.

The Last Station — Film

f you are unfamiliar with the works of Tolstoy or War and Peace, this is just another well acted story of Russian life. You’ll find this an interesting, beautifully filmed and memorable film. However, if you know the man and his work, this film is a breath-taking depiction of Tolstoy’s last days as the leader of the minimalist movement and his exciting wife Sofya, Countess Tolstoy, who loves her position and wealth, and wishes to pass on to her children the comforts and riches of the social upper class. Sofya is played brilliantly by Helen Mirren. Leo Tolstoy is played powerfully by Christopher Plummer in grand style. James McAvoy is the young admiring secretary whose loyalty is split between husband and wife. McAvoy’s ability to change

Petronius

ami and I also joined Petronius to be a part of the 50th Anniversary of the krewe. Many great parties and events are planned for this year. We wanted to be part of the fun, and you should too. The Rush Party is March 27th from 3 to 5pm ending in a bar crawl to show our appreciation to all the bars who helped us in 2009. Events planned are riding in the Gay Easter Parade; Theatre Evenings at Le Petit; Cocktail & Crowns Party in early June; having a booth at NOLA Pride and many others. We have started working toward our big “show” scheduled for Saturday, February 12, 2011. It is not too early to mark your calendars.

NOLA Pride

nother great event that I am honored to be a part of is the 2010 NOLA Pride celebration. It will be held on the famous 800 block of Bourbon Street on Saturday, June 26th and Sunday, June 27th. This street fair will include vendors selling jewelry, crafts, food and games to play. A stage will be located at one end of the block for the ongoing entertainment. Shade, cold drinks and cool air will be offered by the several bars in the area. The cost is a one time each day fee of $5. to enter any of the bars. This fee goes directly to NOLA Pride to pay for the event. Donations are accepted to meet the costs of Police Details, stage and sound rental, street closure fees, insurance and the list goes on. It takes a lot of money to give you the Pride show you expect so please support our efforts to give you the best. We are pleased to announce the Michael Martin will coordinate the talent for

8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Marc h 2-15, 2010 • Offic ial Gay East er Parade Guide • GayEast erParade.COM

[continued on 9]

the pink pastor by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw Email: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com

What’s in a name?

church member who attends our 1pm service was asked by a friend why he doesn’t go to our 5pm service. The church member said ‘Oh, I am more contemplative, and the 5pm is more expressive’ – a perfectly reasonable response, to which his friend said ‘Oh yes! I heard it was very Pentecostal’. Here is what is profoundly wrong with that statement. Our 5pm service is blended worship – Spirit led and joyful. I say blended because it has contemporary ‘Praise and Worship’ music, Gospel, Southern Gospel and traditional hymns - it also has a full Eucharistic celebration (Communion) and prayers of intercession. It

is informal and friendly and some of our members are from a Pentecostal background (around 10%). The rest are from every background imaginable. If we are to be a congregation that seeks to represent the diversity in our community, then that means that I as Pastor have to reach beyond disaffected traditionalists and make a genuine home for people from cultures that are different to my own, and who have forms of worship that are different to what I am used to. I myself am an English Anglo-Catholic, ordained as an Anglican (Episcopal) Priest. We cannot tell people that we think it is terrible that churches are so racially segregated and then refuse to worship in

Sister Myotis

a church that embraces any expression of African American culture. It is impossible to be diverse ‘as long as it’s like me’. This

cannot be done. 85% of the churches in the New Orleans area are racially segregated - not because someone put a sign up saying ‘no whites’ or ‘no blacks’, but because people find it more comfortable to worship with people who are just like themselves. Church has been done like this for centuries, and frankly, it is a gaping wound in our professed Christianity. If this sort of sameness was either Godly or desirable then it would have born wholesome fruit, and not born a historical burden of oppression and mindless support for the status quo. Some focused ministries are the consequence of a prophetic call upon a church or group - like missionaries trekking off to Papua New Guinea, or our own call to The LGBT community. This call doesn’t mean we never face diversity – rather the basic call to become better and stronger and more mature than we are calls us to embrace diversity. If we throw up our hands in horror when ever we are faced with the unfamiliar or the [continued on 14]

sappho psalm ...from 8 his appearance through facial expressions is impressive. He is part of the Tolstoy movement of rejecting materialism on all levels and adopting a celibate lifestyle. And the villain (as I thought of him) is Paul Giamatti as the vain follower, admirer Vladimir Chertkov who assists and demands that Tolstoy follow the strict rules of his own movement which especially includes his wealth. These four actors waltz through scenes in perfect steep with each other – trading blow for blow, smile for smile, brilliance for brilliance. Giamatti’s character, Chertkov, is explained to guests by Tolstoy as, “He’s a much better Tolstoyian than I am.” Chertkov and Sofya are in a battle for Tolstoy. Where Chertkov is cunning and mean-spirited, Sofya is ferocious, strong-willed, and completely devoted. Sofya is to me a codependent older woman trying to protect herself and her family. And in the end her victory is won while the love of her life is lost to her. Some reviews consider Sofya to be crazy but she is far from that. She is overly emotional and very frightened of a future alone and penniless. The contrast between the followers’ commune and the grand home of the Count and Countess makes for an understanding of what Tolstoy teaches and how he is willing to compromise his teachings. It also makes for good cinematography. The costumes and set dressing are beautifully done. Ms. Mirren’s wardrobe is incredibly lovely and suits her character and figure. Needless to say I guess that I loved her performance and character. The film ends, of course, with the death of Tolstoy which is dramatic and sad. Tolstoy is the Great Russian writer of the 19th century which most modern readers have little use for. Perhaps he is too difficult for modern readers. I recommend this film highly even if you know nothing more than Tolstoy was once considered “must” reading for the educated man. And his movement defined life in Russia for the modern age. This is one movie that I know I will watch many times as I will see something new each time. It is that good and that complex.

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

Mardi Gras Recap

ood Lord, are you people tired. I mean it feels like I just got off a Merry-Go-Round that has been in motion for a month. And now the Easter and St. Patrick’s Day events are starting. This is not a city for the meek. But before I pull up my big girl panties and move onto the other holidays, lets take a moment to recap one of the most fabulous

Mardi Gras in New Orleans history. Lets begin with Friday, February 6, 2010 with the Satyricon Ball at the Sugar Mill in New Orleans. Now I may be a little bias because I am a member of this krewe, but it was marvelous if I do say so myself. The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is the newest gay ball on the scene, only being in existence for eight years. The theme this year was All That Jazz and it was an extrava-

ganza of music. Being one of the only two balls in the city limits (Petronius is the other), makes it easy for guests to attend and party afterwards. The ball began with the National Anthem being performed by a wonderful pair of talented students from NOCCA named Rebecca Farley and Tyler Curry. Then our returning King Richard Read and Queen Wedon Brown came out as Hot Damn. Their

costumes were amazing and created by none other than the talented Brian Peterson aka Sadie Shepard who also was the host for the evening’s festivities along with her partner Todd Shaffer. Then our beloved captain, Mr. Mickey Gill came out as Majordomo with the Pinettes Brass Band. Next up was the fabulous Brian performing as Sadie, All That Jazz. But what was so memorable about this number is that the krewe members were the backup dancers. This is the reason why I joined a Mardi Gras krewe was to make friends and be a part of a group that does lots of things together. And this allowed me to do something I have always wanted to do, perform the All That Jazz number from Chicago. Now in my dreams I was the lead singer, but I settled for chorus in this one. Check that off my bucket list. But I digress, I got to practice the number twice a week for three weeks to get it down with the rest of my krewe and it brought us together. We laughed, made fun of each other, but most of all enjoyed each others company. I could not have asked for a better way to bond with members of my krewe than this. That is what it is all about and for this I thank our choreographer, Patrick Mendelson, who taught a rag tag group of misfits how to dance. He was funny and patient, but most of all engaging. And Sadie, what can I say, but, Bitch, if you think I am going to be a chorus girl next year you have another thing coming, so watch your back. Just saying. Love and kisses. We had some fun performers and entertainment this year thanks to our ball lieutenant, Carl Mack. Everyone had a great time, even Miss Becky Allen who always wows the crowd. And, what do you ask was I for this extravaganza. I was the Disco Angel and came out in a fabulous design by the talented Kent Roby with Disco mirrors and fourteen foot wings. I performed the Lady Gaga song Disco Heaven with my friend Nick who was impeccably costumed as Lady Gaga herself and my own personal disco angel Chase who was only clad in tights and wings. We did a show stopping routine which was energetic and witty with a little help in choreographing from Chris Arthur. Other noteworthy performers was Stephen Rizzo as the Le Jazz Hot and Ted Jeansonne as Jazzy Saint with his hot football players. Then it was time for our royalty which was Ty Johnson as our Queen and Paul Metoyer as our King. Dancers abounding as they came out, gentlemen you did us proud and thank you for the fabulous king’s party you hosted the following Tuesday at the Precinct uptown. Another part of the ball I loved so much was the buffet and disco party afterwards. It gave people time to visit and take pictures with the costumed krewe. The following night, the Krewe of Amon Ra followed with a lovely ball at the Alario Center. The theme was Love is in the Air and guests learned about all types of love. They did not need a ball for that, they could have just came over to my house on a Saturday night. The festivities began with the National Anthem being performed by the Navy Band. Kudos to whoever was responsible for getting them to perform. Score! Next up was the Ball Captain and the Ball Lieutenant performing the theme song to the Love Boat then breaking into Love is in the Air. Timm Holt, captain and Daryl Dunaway, lieutenant, recreated a scene from the Love Boat then broke into the song. Napkins went flying as we all rocked to one of our favorite gay songs. Next up was another one of our gay anthems performed by one of our favorite performers and the retuning queen, Rhonda Roget. She did Dancing Queen and had an outfit that was straight from the stages of Vegas. Talk about a showgirl. She was joined on stage by two dancers and then followed up by Nick, the returning king. The emcees of the evening was Lauren Brown and Bambi Riveira. Other memorable numbers was John Zeringue as Optimistic Love who had one of the more dazzling costumes of the night and brought his own drummers. He was followed up by a personal favorite of mine, the Geisha Girl, Chris Arthur as Look But Don’t Touch. We whipped that Asian fan around like an Olympic Sport. The detailing of his outfit was superior. Another good costume was Ron Issler’s From Russia with Love. This was also the krewe’s 45th anniversary and to celebrate they called up all the past royalty. Then it was time to announce the new royalty and I was very honored to be asked to be seated at their table this evening. Daryl [continued on 12]

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under the gaydar ...from 10 Dunaway aka Countess C. Alice was the Queen and his partner David Aranda was the king. Daryl looked lovely as a dragonfly and David looked very handsome as the Fleur de Lis. Congratulations to them on their reign and also a very big thank you from me for calling me and my mother up to the stage. We ‘are both very grateful. One little tidbit of useless information is that the Queen’s pages were Kenny Falco and Kenny Fernandez who are partners and the King’s pages were John Hill and John Weimer, who are partners also. Freaky, right? The next day my friend Michelle from DC who was in for the weekend and I went to see the King Arthur parade Uptown on St. Charles. What a wonderful parade and a it was made brighter by their sparkling King Toby Lefort, who shined like a superstar in his large white plumed headdress. Royalty definitely agrees with him. After the parade we came home for a quick disco nap then off to JohnPaul’s for the most amazing Super Bowl games ever. 43 years and we are the Super Bowl champs. Words cannot even describe the enthusiasm and electricity in the air that night. And John Paul’s was definitely one

of the places to be for this game. John and Paul did an incredible job that evening with the food and the drink specials (love those jello shots). When they won, I danced with people, kissed some people, made out with some people, got in trouble with some boyfriends. I mean I was just being friendly. All in all, I think we all scored big that night. So the exhilaration in the city reached a fever’s pitch on Tuesday when the Saints parade rolled through the streets of our city. 800,000 people were at the parade and the city only has 400,000 citizens. So that means we all went and brought a friend. I went with my friends Ben and Mollie and we caught it on Convention Center Blvd at the Sugar Mill who had a stand making wonderful cocktails for the crowds. So how hot was Shockey, I mean stalking has definitely become and option. And, Scott Fujita really should anyone be allowed to be that pretty. After the parade, we went to the Satyricon King’s Party at the Precinct on Annunciation Street. The following night I attended two incredible events. The first was my friend Tyler’s birthday bash thrown for him by his partner Nick at the Fiber Mills in the Warehouse District. There was great cuisine by Vegas Tapas and my friend Chase (the disco angel from my ball) was their special

bartender. Everyone had a great time dancing and drinking and the birthday boy looked fabulous. They also had a brilliant DJ who spun for them named John. He is new on the scene and definitely someone to check out. My next stop of the night was one of the best parties of the Mardi Gras season. This mysterious and enigmatic man named Andreas hosts a costume soiree every year during Carnival at his home in the French Quarter. There is always spectacular costumes, great food and of course libations aplenty. A wonderful event planner in the city, Bethany, makes the event come to life and this year she outdid herself. The theme was Along the Silken Road and it was Asian inspired décor and entertainment. The highlight of the night was the Chinese dragon that maneuvered it’s way through the party and then started their energetic dance. I partied the night away dressed as an Asian King along with my special friend Chase. Cannot wait till next year. Next up was another extraordinary party at the Tea Room called the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras. This is the second year I attended this event and it just gets better each time. This year’s theme was Cirque Du Sogay and the attire is either costume or black tie. I came as a oversexed lion tamer and Chase came as a lion. This event always has great food, a rockin’ DJ and outstanding costumes. We partied there dancing until they made us leave. You know it is a good party when they kick you out at the end of the night. The following night if I threw on my tuxedo and attended the Endymion Extravaganza at the Louisiana Superdome. If you haven’t been to this event, you need

to go once to say you have done it. Words cannot properly describe this event, but suffice to say it is a non-stop party from the moment you enter the building till 4am in the morning. The floats enter the building and they are played in by a fun band so as you catch beads, you dance to the beat. And catching beads is like a contact sport at this thing. You are pummeled by trinkets and beads as the floats circle you like a wagon train and throw all their goodies to the outstretched hands of the finely dressed men and women. The Grand Marshal was Tom Benson holding the Lombardi trophy up high, and he had some of the players on his float. Hello little Garrett Hartley. There are some great local bands before and during the parade and afterwards the main act was Lynyrd Skynyrd followed up by the ever so wonderful Cowboy Mouth. Wow, I never really knew Skynyrd before and still do not get into their music, but you have to give props to men in their sixties still rocking the house. Sunday found me dead on the sofa for most of the day, but I pulled myself up for my next event. I threw my tuxedo back on and went to the Lords of Leather Ball at the Alario Center. I want to thank Pat Johnson, Lord Chancellor President and Ben Bourgeois, Ball Lieutenant for my wonderful seats. My friends Nick, Tyler and I enjoyed the evening and it was a night to remember. The returning royalty performed one of the best choreographed numbers I have seen in a Mardi Gras ball in a long time. They had people from their krewe and other krewes play mythological gods in

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under the gaydar ...from 12 their act. I thought this was a true testament to the Lords of Leather and their efforts in bringing the entire gay Mardi Gras community together and the returning Lord and Lord Consort, Gary Vandeventer and Bruce Orgeron’s costumes were over the top. The theme of the ball was Ain’t There No More and it was dedicated to Lord David Boyd who passed away earlier this year. I have to say it is hard to pinpoint my highlights for this ball, because the entire ball and every costume in it was breathtaking. From the fabulous Marie Laveua and Storyville to the comical K&B Drugs, the entire evening was outstanding. And I always like it when I can see Bianca del Rio perform. She was born to be an emcee. And her co emcee for the evening was Darwin from Mobile and he did a very competent job in keeping Bianca on track. The time came to announce the new royalty who appeared as the clothing store Gargoyles. But they just did not come out in costume, they had a fire breathing dragon complete with knights to slay the beast. These queens know how to make an entrance. Lord and Lord Consort this year were the wonderful Tim Lott and Allen. Their costumes were huge and elaborate and both men worked them with grace. Congratulations to the new royalty and all the Lords on one of the best balls of the season. The next day, I thought my tuxedo did not have enough working out so I put it back on and went to the Orpheuscapade. After Mardi Gras, my tuxedo was able to walk to the dry cleaner itself. The Orpheus ball is another one of those non-stop parties that you spend the evening drinking, eating and catching beads. The parade as always was fabulous and Sean Payton was one of the best grand marshals ever. Love seeing that trophy again. The special musical headliners that night was Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Taylor Dayne (who was my 80’s heorinne) and Smashmouth. FYI, their lead singer Steve Harwell is my new bad boy crush. Talk about a hot commodity with tattoos in all the right places. What an incredible night. I got home from Orpheus in the wee hours in the morning, then jumped up and got ready for Mardi Gras Day. I donned my Disco Angel costume and was out of my house by 9:30am which I thought was quite a feat considering the lack of sleep I had for the past few weeks. I actually think I was running on fumes, but I was still moving. I started the day off with a breakfast/brunch at my friends Laura and Gary’s house in the Marigny. Gary is a chef and he had cooked up some delectable treats for us to start the day off right. Of course, the bloody marys and champagne was flowing. After we had our fill to eat and cocktails in hand, we ventured out to see the Saint Ann Parade which was always a great way to start out the day. My favorite costumes of the parade were the Housewives of the Who Dat Nation and Tiger Woods and his backup singers, who performed the song My Boyfriend’s Black to a cheering crowd which I was lucky to be one of the people to sere their impromptu routine. They even wrote their own score to the song which can be found on U-tube. Check it out, it is hysterical. After St. Ann, I bid my friends farewell and went into the quarter for the Mardi Gras Bead Toss. As always it was an amazing time on the Ambush balcony

and Ms. Opal Masters looked simply exquisite in her feathered outfit and crown. She’s always a class act. As King Cake Queen she poised regally on the balcony as she greeted her subjects below. And then she threw the first bead and the games began to see who can get the most men to show their god given talent to us from below. This year was either very easy or the men were very drunk because some were dropping without us even asking. Now that is what I call supply and demand. What we had this year that was different than past ones was the wonderful Russell on the ground as our wrangler. We would point out a “willing” participant and he would bring him to us. He even helped some of the shy ones unbuckle their belts. See that is what I love about him, he is always there to give good service to all those in need. The party raged on until the evening and Rip and Marsha put out quite a spread. My favorite was the cracklins which I believe is the best I have eaten in my entire life. It had to be the most tantalizing thing I put in my mouth that entire day. Well come to think of it, maybe the second most…… After the Ambush party, I went to Bill McCarthy’s party at his house eon St. Ann for a quick cocktail. As always it was a festive fete with great guests. Then we all worked our way back to the Marigny to see the Mardi Gras Day show at JohnPaul’s. It was packed and a marvelous way to end the holiday. I even got to mingle with the porn star Robert Elephante who broke my scepter when he shoved the entire thing down his throat. Wow, a man with no gag reflex is heaven sent. Who cares how many scepters he breaks, as long as he is able to cough up those diamonds at the end, he is a keeper. Mardi Gras this year was a wonderful culmination to some memorable events. I thank all those who invited me to their events and every member of all the carnival krewes for keeping our traditions alive. See you next year.

Off to Portland

had not even a day to relax before I was off to Portland Oregon for a conference. I attended the Leadership Conference for the National Association of Catering Executives which was a wonderful learning and networking experience with people from across our country. But I wanted to give you some highlights of my trip that may be of interest to you gays planning on going to Portland soon. The city is awesome and the men there are tall, rugged mountain boys. They are all healthy, all in shape and most of all, all man. I stayed at a very gay friendly luxury hotel downtown called The Nines. This has to go down as one of the best hotels I have stayed. From the service to the décor, this place was impeccable. The restaurant in the hotel, Urban Farmer was delicious and there lounge on the top floor called Departure that is a destination unto itself. It is decorated like a futuristic airport terminal and has a great balcony that wraps around giving guests an amazing view of the city. The two nights I went up to the bar was rewarding. The first night was gay night and every male model type in the city was present and the second night they had the Celtics basketball team there. Talk about living out loud in the land of the giants. As far as the gay scene in the city, again that was pleasantly surprisingly.

The first night I went to a great hangout bar called Scandals, then went over to Red Cap which was just a block away. That night they had the Portland Drag Race hosted by a RuPaulesque performer named Poison Waters. She was very entertaining and she kept the night moving quickly. What I liked about this drag race better than the one in New Orleans was the contestants actually had challenges that they had to complete each week. This week the challengers had to make an outfit to match the cover of the magazine they were selected to do. This was hysterical because one was given Popular Science and one was given Biblical Times. This was also very smart after they kicked off the contestant for that night, they received their challenge for the next week. The audience’s anticipation to see how their favorite person would do for their next outfit would make them come back to see how they did. It was standing room only in the place and all the drag queens had their fans. Red Cap is also connected to a great gay dance bar called Boxxes. Now every night I managed to make it to another gay bar called Silverado’s which was a stripper boy bar with full frontal nudity. But it was more about the fun atmosphere of the place and the boys were more eye candy. Although I did meet a special friend there, thanks Hellion for an incredible tour of Portland. The following night I went to a very cool gay dance bar called CC Slaughters and was greeted by one very fierce drag queen who also seems to rule the roost there named Bolivia Carmichaels. She was amazing persona and after one conversation with her, I knew she needs to come to the Crescent City and guest star in a show here. CC’s is fantastic with great bartenders, especially Chris. I mean the arms on him were like oak trees. He is a walking fantasy that you can touch. I met some great people at all the bars and I have to say that Portland is definitely a very gay friendly city. The only thing that bothers me is there damn 2 am. closing law. I mean really in New Orleans we are just getting out at that time. And even though Portland is not quite the food city New Orleans is, the restaurants there were spectacular. I went to the wonderful Mother’s for brunch, had a incredible meal at Farm and enjoyed an evening with my new Portland friends Justin and Julia at the hip new Davis Street Tavern. I also had the famous Voodoo Donuts that was featured on the Travel Channel. But the highlight to the trip was seeing some great friends of mine from New Orleans who live in Portland now, Matt and Kristin. I had not seen them in five years and it was a memorable reunion. So gay men, Portland should definitely be

added to your cities you must see list. I am already planning another trip out there soon. Have an event or have something of interest to the LGBT community, feel free to send press releases or information to tonymgp@hotmail.com.

the pink pastor ...from 9 disturbing then we must accept that others will do the same with us and we will remain perpetually fractured and damaged as a community. The fault lines we can use to pry ourselves apart are many and various – age, race, gender, sexuality, wealth – resulting in even the Gay community fracturing into lots of little tiny fiefdoms that were distrustful of each other and fought their own territory. Of course, that’s just what we DO have! We rarely speak with one voice even on issues that affect all of us, and we treat Christianity as if it were a fringe interest group like basket weaving or watercolor painting – we pick the one we like and punish anyone who invites in the riff raff! The Big Easy MCC, is not a gay church, it is not a Pentecostal church, it is not an Anglo-Catholic church, it is not Presbyterian, Lutheran or Methodist, it is a Christian church. Furthermore it has accepted the call upon it that the word Christian implies – to try and include and celebrate all who would enter; to ensure that as many as possible see something of themselves in it – in leadership, in music and in preaching. It is striving to ensure that it represents the city in which we serve in terms of age, sex and gender, and doing this requires hard work, sacrifice and often trial and error. We are not alone in this struggle – there are churches in many places (some of which you go to!) that are going through the same journey of growth and self discovery. However, it has to be said that to enter a diverse congregation worshipping in many different styles and only see the styles you don’t like is to do violence to the goodwill and the efforts of many. It is to belittle those who are trying to do something new and different in a city crucified by racial and cultural divisions for too long. Rev Clinton Crawshaw is the fulltime pastor of The Big Easy MCC. They meet every Sunday at 5pm (Praise and Worship in the main sancturary) and 1pm (liturgical service in the chapel) at 1333 S. Carrollton Avenue. For full details of Christian Education classes, social functions, marriages and events, and also to check out online sermons, go to w w w.bigeasymcc.com. Tel: 504.214.4340 to speak to the pastor or email at revcrawshaw@gmail.com.

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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

he Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLII: Masquerade brought King and Queen Armeinius XLII Albert Carey and Rusty Toups to the stage at the Alario Center.

he 23rd Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss was led by King Cake Queen XVII Opal Masters reigning as The Parisian Queen over the Krewe of Queenateenas' Passport to Versailles, No Guillotines Please from the world famous Bourbon Street Balcony of Ambush Headquarters.

he Ballerina of Muses won both the Best Overall Costume ($500 Cash) and Best Drag at the 46th annual Bourbon Street Awards hosted by Oz and Bud Light in the 800 Block of Bourbon Street right down from Ambush Headquarters (left).

ord King and Lord Consort XXVII Alan Kelley & Tim Lott came forth as the Mystick Krewe of Lords of Leather celebrated Lost New Orleans...It Ain't Here No More! at the Alario Center.

ing and Queen Satyricon VIII Paul Metoyer and Ty Johnson reigned over All That Jazz, in celebration of the 8th Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque at The Sugar Mill.

ing and Queen Amon-Ra XLV David Aranda and Daryl Dunaway Jr. reigned over the Krewe of Amon-Ra's 45th Anniversary Bal Masque: Love Is In The Air at the Alario Center.

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23rd Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss Lead by King Cake Queen XVII Opal Masters as The Parisian Queen, Ambush Headquarters ~ New Orleans

ambush

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ambush

Hot! Hot! Hot! Mardi Gras! ~ New Orleans

46th Bourbon Street Awards presented by Oz & Bud Light~ New Orleans

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trodding the boards by Patrick Shannon, III Email: nedcat@earthlink.net

Nunsensations! The Nunsense Vegas Revue

uns on stage are usually a sure thing, especially in towns with a high Roman Catholic population, such as our town. That’s just one of the reasons that Don Goggin’s musical about those women in black and white habits should delight audiences at Jefferson Performing Arts Society production of Nunsensations! The Nunsense Vegas Revue. The other reasons are written about in this review (please take note of this word, of which there will be more later in the review); and the reasons can be found in this expert production presented by the Jefferson Performing Arts Society, and appropriately for a show about Las Vegas, the Boomtown Casino, New Orleans. This show is one of five - so far - all involving “the nuns of the Little Sisters of Hoboken,” the first one being Nunsense. Mr. Goggin was a seminarian in his earlier years; and was taught by the Madewood Dominican Sisters. The Genesis of the original show was a line of greeting cards featuring a nun spouting pithy quips with a clerical bent. The greeting cards were so popular that Mr. Goggin expanded his concept into a cabaret show titled The Nunsense Story. This show opened for a four-day run at Manhattan’s Duplex and continued selling out for 38 weeks. Its creator expanded it into a full-length theatrical production. Now you know why he writes with such wit and sauciness about nuns. Dancing and singing nuns, occasionally doing things which are just a little off color or naughty on a public stage even without a cute dog and children in the show (think the of the Mother Abbess and her singing nuns in The Sound of Music foiling those “cute,” determined, and pesky Nazis by divinely destroying the carburetor of their evil car in which they planned to pursue the scrappy/happy von Trapp family singers as they traipsed across the Alps as the strains of Climb Every Mountain filled the crystalline mountain air in yet another reprise swelled in the orchestra) will usually be an entertaining sure fire hit. I’m happy to say that Nunsensations! The Nunsense Las Vegas Revue (not “review” - which this is - but what cabaret shows are not -but the word is popularly and constantly misused by so many Stage Cliquers or Clickers) in its current venue at the Teatro Wego! Theater in beautiful Westwego, Louisiana is just that: a very entertaining, funny musical about nothing really serious in the lives of five nuns who want to raise funds for some good old nunish cause. The hook is that they end up in Sin City also known as Las Vegas, and get convinced by a con artist to create and perform a song and dance musical revue (again take note of the word) to earn it. As we all know (Roman Catholic mackerel snapper or otherwise) this is something that any conservative Roman Catholic (like the current Pope Benedict, or Papa Benny as he is known to his friends like the

infamous Melba Carondelet) would be aghast to bless even if it had a cute dog and a bunch of adorable kids in it. Such a non-nun like fund raising event is fertile ground for a mass of various sins especially if done in a Las Vegas showgirl style in Sin City. Before going on, there will be a digression of sorts. The plots for more installments in the Nunsense franchise seem to be as infinite as God’s powers. For The Tennessee Williams Literary Festival there could be: Nuns on a Hot Tin Roof, The Nuns of the Iguana, A Nun Named Desire, or The Milk Train Doesn’t Stop in Hoboken Anymore also known as Boom! Nunsense!. For a Science Fiction/ Fantasy Geek Fest there could be: The 5,000 Nuns of Dr. T, The Sister of Oz, Nun Trek, Nuns Versus Aliens and Predators or The Day the Nun Stood Still. For Halloween time, to be played at Edward Cox’s Haunted Mortuary, there could be: The Nuns from the Black Lagoon, Last Convent on the Left, The Hoboken Chain Saw Massacre, The Convent on Elm Street, or The Nuns of Frankenstein. For those who like exploitation films and B movies: Beyond the Valley of the Nuns or Faster Pussy Nuns, Kill, Kill, Kill!. And during Carnival time there could be: the racy Nuns Gone Wild -The Little Sisters of Hoboken on The Big Easy’s Bourbon Street or in collaboration with Ricky Graham the family friendly, local color production The Nuns and All..., the later presented at Le Chat Noir and then at The Muriel Cabaret at Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre. There can even be tranny inspired shows such as: To Nun Foo, Thanks for the Egg Roll, Love Julie Newmar; The Hoboken Horror Picture Show; or The Adventures of The Little Sisters of Hoboken, Queens of the Desert. And of course I can’t wait to see the “nudies, nudies, nudies!,” as Neely O’Hara would screech in Valley of the Dolls, Naked Nuns Swinging! most probably presented at The Marigny Theatre behind the lesbian lounge AllWays. The plot from the official website for all of the shows in the franchise: ‘Nunsensations! The Nunsense Vegas Revue takes the sisters on a brand new adventure. When a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000 to the sisters’ school if they will perform in a club in Las Vegas, Mother Superior is hesitant to accept. However, after being convinced by the other sisters that “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” Reverend Mother agrees. What follows is the most featherfilled, sequin-studded, fan dancing Nunsense show ever! Performing in “The Pump Room” at the Mystique Motor Lodge, the sisters experience “show-biz” like never before. You’ll meet Sin-City Sue, find out who’s Black and White with Her Money on Red, and try to win a new car with the “Holy Rollers Giant Slot Machine.” Taking a line from another show, a critic pointed out, “It’s a whole lot funny and a little bit naughty, but there ain’t nothin’ dirty goin’ on!”’ Nunsensations! The Last Vegas

Revue as brightly directed by our towns own professional clown, Uncle Wayne Daigrepoint is definitely a major/minor sensation. He has done an admiral job with his kinetic pacing and his well-timed comedic touches. These nuns dance (like they have spiders up their butts) to the energetic Las Vegas-like choreography of Lindsey “Peeps” Price. They prance, parade, and occasionally give out with a faux mini-prayer; and sing songs performed celestially by the JPAS Broadway Pit Orchestra, under Alan Payne’s heavenly expert musical direction with good strong voices wearing Las Vegas-like showgirl feathered headpieces, feather boas and as much bling bling glitter of rhinestones and sequins on almost everything without ever removing a single piece of their black and white habit, thanks to the costuming by Kelly James-Penot. Claire Conti is a huge success playing Reverend Mother/Sister Mary Regina, and she has finally found a role that she was destined to play as she lugs her massive self on stage at one point in the revue (there is that word again) as the infamous Hindenberg blimp that exploded in 1937 over Lake Hurst, New Jersey doing one of the many hilarious skits found in this laugh-tickle show. All I could think of was the phrase “type casting” as I watched her work up a drenching sweat doing those high kicking, kick ass dance numbers with the rest of the somewhat slimmer cast members. Every time I see Ms. Conti I see myself as we both seem to be spreading out wider and wider with time. Great performance girl, try not to blow up on stage in future, let me do it first I’m older. Melinda Taliancich Falgoust plays the role of the hard bitten street wise Sister

Robert Anne so convincingly that I over heard the audience member sitting next to me ask her if she was a real nun. I nearly choked on my colorful pack of M&Ms. Not only did she give a fine performance; but she sang with a clarity of tone and a big well-tuned voice. Katie Coplen played Sister Mary Leo with charm; and a little hot pepper. Brittney James played Sister Mary Hubert with a lot of sense and salty sass. Anna Toujas Rosenberg played Sister Mary Amnesia/ Paul with a sweet certitude that swept one into her character; and her puppet routine was a very funny thing to see. All of these performers gave us a seamless production which you should see and enjoy. Almost hidden from view was the wonderful, multi talented Musical Director/Actor/(when in highest drag) Actress and all around show biz personality Alan Payne who was able to mash out a sizable sound from his little band. The marvelous set pieces and scenic design were the very clever bling bling creations of Elizabeth Broomall, with costumes by the already mentioned Kelly James-Penot; and sparkling effective lighting was done by William Spratt. This tight and delightfully manic high energy kick-ass production of Nunsensations! The Nunsense Vegas Revue is well done and delicious to experience. A toast with Divinity Fudge and Heavenly Hash to a clutch of chunky nuns, a director, and this ballooning critic. I can’t wait to see you all in Naked Nuns Swinging when it gets done here. And can I be Clair Conti’s understudy? I will be big enough in time. Don’t miss her in this show.

chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain www.ripandmarsha.com Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

New Orleans Restaurant Guide 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St., 561.1095, has just opened and is now serving sliders, paninis, quesadillas, and more at the popular club in the French Quarter. Restaurant hours are 7pm til Wed.-Sun. Visit 700ClubNewOrleans.COM. Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445, is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open 9am-9pm Mon.Tues., 8am-10pm Thurs.-Sun., closed Wed. MasterCard/Visa accepted. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Call 598.1010 or visit CloverGrill.COM. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St. Under the direction of Chef Coy LeBeau, he has taken attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM or call 945.0742 for more information. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers. Open 7 days from 11am-10pm, call 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM. Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur Street, features New Orleans inspired Italian cuisine along with a wonderfully assorted wine selection. Experience Maximo’s open kitchen and watch Chef Thomas Woods prepare his extraordinary dishes. Open 6pm 7 days a week, call 504.586.8883 or visit MaximosGrill.COM for reservations and information. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am-5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days. Call 522.6746 for info. The Pelican Club, 312 Exchange Alley, 523.1504, PelicanClub.COM. With its tasteful but comfortable ambience, The Pelican Club serves contemporary Louisiana cuisine specializing in seafood. The restaurant is conveniently located in the French Quarter on historic Exchange Alley, an easy walk from most downtown hotels. Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, was voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year once again and is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the deli offers free delivery. Rooba's Crescent Spoon Cafe, 2307 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 830.1035, Roobas.COM. Home of the Weenie Panini, Rooba's has an extensive menu with starters, garden fresh salads, paninis, specialty sandwiches, pizza, daily hot specials and homemade desserts. Open Mon. Sat. 11am-3pm.

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Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque VIII: all that Jazz ~ New Orleans

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Krewe of Amon-Ra Bal Masque XLV: Love Is In the Air ~ New Orleans

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Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Extravaganza XI: CirqueBar du SoGay New Orleans ~ New Orleans17th Red Party @ Neighborhood of~the Year Lafitte’s raises

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CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

TOULOUSE

600

RAMPART

500

BURGUNDY

400 ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

ROYAL

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900

body rubs

1000

New Orleans, LA [504] AWESOME BODY RUB/ESCORT SESSION by masculine top stud. 6'0", 182#, w/magic hands. 6am-mid. 7 days. 4 hands also avail. In/ Out serving New Orleans, Baton Rouge, the Northshore. Call Charlie 504.430.7413 [is510]

ST. PHILIP

URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300

classifieds

ESPLANADE

1800 19 FR EL YS IA N

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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 Houma, LA [985] PULSE VIDEO LOUNGE, 6441 West Main

bookstores 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 BOUTIQUE, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095 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

business opportunities

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

autos

LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450, NapoleonsItch.COM OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, PhoenixNewOrleans.COM RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM 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

St., pulsevideolounge@yahoo.com, 876.7777 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 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BYWATER PATIO BAR, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 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

New Orleans, LA [504] BAR FOR SALE-in the heart of the French Quarter in business over 30 years. Owner retiring. Call Andrew 504.473.2655 [is4/10]

cable shows New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 99

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is410]

circuit/events 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 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 Oct. 28-31, 2010, Halloween 27, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 30, 2010-Jan. 4, 2011, Gay New

Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM March 4-8, 2011, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.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

employment New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS is accepting applications for energetic employees. Drug test/ background check required. Apply at 515 Toulouse St. LOOKING FOR A HARD WORKING SELF MOTIVATED STYLIST with an impeccable work ethic. Must be cheerful and play well with others. Mail resume to Mickey Nolan Salon, 815 Toulouse St., New Orleans, LA 70112 or email to mickeynolansalon@nocoxmail.com.

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

for rent New Orleans, LA [504] ROOMMATE WANTED to share 2 BR 1/2 double in Faubourg on Burgundy St. $425/mo + utilities. Furnished. 939.4432. Non-smoker preferred. [is510]

framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAMES, 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: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Marc h 2-15, 2010 • Offic ial Gay East er Parade Guide • GayEast erParade.COM

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

lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/ FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, theburgundy.com, Email us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "half-kitchen", courtyard and halfopen tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate

vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [0810] FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. E-mail us at reservations@bpmhotels.com. Official Host Hotel of Oz New Orleans. One of several French Quarter residences that have been painstakingly restored and transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites, executive townhouses, intimate cottages and comfortable rooms. Adjacent to the French Quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. 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. [0111] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. E-mail us at

reservations@bpmhotels.com. One of several historic New Orleans homes and cottages that have been lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms, spacious multibedroom suites, luxury townhouses and cottages. Adjacent to the French Quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. 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

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 [is17/10]

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

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATEARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video,

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Marc h 2-15, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27

Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINEWELLSMARDIGRASMUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEECONTIHISTORICALWAXMUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERNART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St.

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITANCOMMUNITYCHURCHOF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OFAPOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425,

70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504]

ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday 12:15pm Solumn Mass, 5pm Praise & Worship, at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, www.bigeasymcc.com, pastor@bigeasymcc.com 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 COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM

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 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, KreweOfPetronius.ORG

KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/ KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LESBIAN & GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF NEW ORLEANS, 2114 Decatur St., 701162013; 945.1103, Fax 945.1102, Email: info@lgccno.net LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 770435, New Orleans, LA 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 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 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 PRIDE CELEBRATION OF NEW ORLEANS: NOLA PRIDE, 2114 Decatur St., 945.1103, NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755

SOFTBALL LEAGUE FORMING THIS SPRING-All skill levels from beginner to advanced. For more information, visit www.nolasoftball.com THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 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] 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: 891.6400, brettinla@aol.com

restaurants Metairie, LA [504] ROOBA'S CRESCENT SPOON CAFE, 2307 Veterans Mem. Blvd., 830.1035, Roobas.COM New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB RESTAURANT, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM 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 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St., 586.8883, MaximosGrill.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 The Pelican Club, 312 Exchange Alley, 523.1504, PelicanClub.COM Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] ALTERNATIVES, 907 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.5222 BOURBON-STRIP TEASE, 205 Bourbon St., 70130; 581.6633, bourbontease.com THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 711 St. Peter [in French Quarter], 525.4372; 5055 Canal St. [near City Park Ave.], 488.4889 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] B.BETTER DAY SPA & SALON, 5601 Tchoupitoulas St., 895.2760, bbetter.org CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Marc h 2-15, 2010 • Offic ial Gay East er Parade Guide • GayEast erParade.COM

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

It's Over

ell, our Mardi Gras season has come to an end once more, and I know so many of my friends who were under the weather and missed all the parades and balls. It was a season of cold snaps, rain, and even snow in lovely Louisiana. However, the crowds still came out wherever there was a celebration, and this overall was one of the safest parade seasons that I can recall. A lot of the celebration this year was more family oriented, and with the New Orleans Saints winning the Super Bowl, it was a cause to really celebrate and to honor the guys who brought the Who Dat Nation to the attention of the world. I know that I’ve received comments from many friends who I know heard the news and knew of my location, and the congratulations just kept coming in. I’m in several clubs, and I post daily notes to a blog that has really brought me in touch with people everywhere. It’s so nice to know what the internet has done to make our world such a friendly one. The Spanish Town Parade was the big one for Baton Rouge. It started small several years ago but really took off over the years, and now it has almost outgrown all expectations. I even noted this year that a group in Beauregard Town, on the opposite side of the Central Business District, was beginning to parade, so there may be FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539]

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another big one in the works. Most of the other parades connected to clubs in the city are also parading in the downtown area, so things are changing constantly, and every year brings out more celebrations. I’ve learned one thing about Baton Rouge that is probably true of New Orleans sites too, and that is the fact that the street sweepers do a great job of cleaning the main parade routes, but the side streets are left to the residents to clean. My home is on a short street that is blocked in from both directions, so it is a major cleanup effort on the day following the Saturday parade that comes down Spanish Town Road and continues back up North Street. All I can say is that more potty shacks are needed. It’s a shame to have to guard your property against the weewee people. There is no shame, but if I want to see a naked weenie, I’d just as soon see it in print instead of in person – unless it is attached to some super stud. At least I didn’t have the five females squatting in front of my house this year. I still haven’t recovered from that scene from the 2009 celebration. It is a sight that will be with me forever and ever and ever. Holy crap! Our local happy bars were all open and doing a rousing business. Hound Dogs was the closest to the major parades, and the boys pulled out all the stops to make everyone happy and satisfied. After parties also brought out the crowds to George’s and Splash. In a sense, Mardi Gras brings friends together who don’t normally come out that much. There are a lot of home bodies in Red Stick, but they loosen up a little during parade and ball season so the scenery is a little different. The only down side to this is living where certain guys think they have the right to see you long enough to use your bathroom, and then they are gone for another year. That is almost as disgusting as seeing squatting women doing their thing. Oh, well, it’s over for another year. Everything is clean again. The welcome rains came to wash it all away, and colors of flowering trees and spring-blooming plants are making their way to show us that another bright and colorful season is just ahead of us. I like that.

Begin Again

y special buddy Tommy made it in to celebrate Super Bowl Sunday in New Orleans. It was his second trip in the past few months. He never misses Southern Decadence, and like so many others, he wanted to be in New Orleans to enjoy all the joy of the Saints making it to the Super Bowl. It was something he says he will never forget. It was a celebration that was really unbelievable. Tommy has plans for his future that may involve leaving Las Vegas, and I’m sorry to say that a return to Louisiana is not in the picture in all this. At any rate, I am so [continued on 31]

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Cody & Richard

rpapar ed stick azzi

Andy & Guy

Jeremy & Philip

Phil & John Taking a break on the patio

Bead stud @ George’s John waiting for parade

Jeff & friends Gerry getting house decorated Chansley & Michael

Debbie & Claudette

Having fun at karaoke

Luther, Michael & Jared

George does George’s Super stud Tommy

The DIVAS

Billy & Jim

Andy gets smooched

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Richard & Darin

Smooched, Decorated ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Danny & Tommy in from Vegas

hot tails of red stick ...from 29 happy and pleased to know that my Eunice stud is making his way into a better life which I think he will enjoy so much more than the gambling job that carried him to Nevada and away from his friends here. I’ve always loved this guy. We go through life, and we meet many people, but there are some that really stand out. It is a special bond that stays with you, and you know that it will never go away. I’ve found that in many people I’ve met along the way, but then there are others that you think will be there for you as you continue on life’s journey, but they are here today and gone tomorrow. Tommy is forever. He is my friend, and I love him dearly. I am so wishing that he finds the happiness that has eluded him in recent years, and I believe it is about to happen for him. My feelings for my BCBoy is the same as I feel for Tommy. John is just one of those rare individuals that you latch onto and hold on because there is a mutual bond of respect here. It is a rare feeling, and you know it when it happens. You think of these friends and you keep up with them. Whatever happens, you are pulling for them and your feelings are strong and unwavering. I’ve followed John, my BCBoy, over the years, and I can’t accurately describe to you how I feel about him. You hear the term love and lust, and you know the difference, but they also have extended meanings. Love doesn’t have to be sexual, and neither does lust. There is an understanding between individuals here, and when it comes to friends, respect plays a big part in the overall picture. John recently bought a home, and I had the honor of being one of his first guests. Just watching him explain what he had done in the planning of this new property brought a feeling of joy to me. It was a shared joy because it was something that was a long time in coming, and it couldn’t have happened to a nicer individual. Every part of the house reflected John’s ideas. Even the most minute details brought forth a pride that I had seen so many times in the past, but here, within these walls, it all came to life. It came about because a guy struggled over the years to make this dream come true. I saw in his face a pride that

I could share. And I could share it in this way because he was one of my dearest friends who had always made me so proud to know him. I will never forget the joy in his voice that day. I will always honor him because he has accomplished what so many others seek but will never find. Attitude plays a big part in how one succeeds, and sometimes it can be misunderstood. I have to think of Claudette here because this is one individual who can stand her ground with anyone. I like this

quality in my friends. You know her today, and you know that she will not change tomorrow. She is just one of those remarkable women who not only commands your respect, but you are exceptionally proud to be in her presence and [continued on 34]

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Rick playing in the early morning snow

No comment

Macky @ the Apollo Ball

We’re all in so much love with Mitch!

acadiana

papar azzi

Joe dishing Jules’ famous shots on the bar

Enjoying a Saints Superbowl victory @ Sound Factory

Joey Collins, Samuel Richard, Wendy Wallace & Joey Battaglio @ the Apollo Ball

Valerie & Tyler

Chris, Rick & Belinda Bee enjoying themselves @ one of Lafayette’s famous after-parties

NOLA’s own JohnPaul doing a body shot @ Jules

How exquisite the Apollo Ball was Kicking off Mardi Gras @ Don & Drew’s house, always great chili & drinks

Great Superbowl Party @ Jules Downtown What a beautiful community Always an attractive crowd @ Sound Factory

John showing his Saints spirit

Tyler with his door prize won @ Jules Downtown

How did Patrick get in this picture! Send him back to NOLA!

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Darren, Kasi & Brian @ Jules

So Much Love ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collin

The Hoveround is the best way to get around the bar

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by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com

hoa, what a ride it has been! February has come and gone and now it’s time to dish it up for March. It’s Joey Collins coming back to you again so listen up!

Superbowl Success

s the state of Louisiana was on edge on Superbowl Sunday; downtown Lafayette was alive as if it were a typical Saturday night. Jules owners Darren Parker and Wendy Wallace celebrated their patrons with a Superbowl Party that was fitted with homemade gumbo, door prizes, and Jules’ infamous free shots on the bar. Jules patron, Rick Rowan, expressed, “Darren and Wendy have been very hospitable. The gumbo is awesome, drink specials are delightful, and I enjoy each time the Saints score because the bartenders stand on the bar and hand out free shots to everyone. It’s a very exciting atmosphere.” Along with door prizes, Wallace handed out free Saints styled Mardi Gras

hot tails of red stick ...from 31 answering that silent command. Whether I meet her when walking my dog, or stopping to chat with her when driving past her home, it’s always the same. Here is a very sincere and determined individual who you just have to respect and love. I’ve noted another side of Claudette lately that many won’t see unless you get to know her better, but she has a wonderful love of family that you wouldn’t know about if you were just a casual acquaintance. I saw this a long time ago as she played with a grandson and held him while I took their picture, but after the untimely death of a beloved son, I really saw the love come through in her voice, her recollections of previous days, and the way she was coping with the loss. I suppose you never get over the loss of a child, but Claudette shows strength here that I hadn’t noted before. She is a strong, loving, and wonderful friend. I find it an honor to be with her on our brief encounters, and I respect her so much for her love of life and her love of family. She is an exceptional human being. I suppose I could go on and on in discussing my friends. I’m very fortunate to have so many, and I care about them and their feelings. Take a look around you. Ask yourself who is dearest or closest to you. Be a caring friend in return. It is the positive attitudes in life that stand out for me, and I see this immediately when I talk with people. I am pleased that so many friends have come into my life. I hope you have a lot of these outstanding individuals in your life too.

Make Plans

ent is a time in our lives when we give up things until Easter arrives. I know many people don’t honor the season as they should, and it always amazes me to hear of some of the things given up by people. It is a slap

beads which to many patrons’ surprise, it also served as a noise maker to cheer on the game. Once victory reigned across the state, Sound Factory was lit up with Saints pride and excitement. The crowds came in truck loads just to celebrate victory. While enjoying drink specials, Saints fans crowded the dance floor and moved to the sounds of victory. John Landry decided to dress as Drew Brees for not only that particular night but the entire weekend as well. Landry’s outfit was complete even down to the padding, leaving many to wonder if he even had his cup in place. Landry explained, “this is my superstitious way of making sure the Saints go all the way and obviously it has worked. “

Touch of Broadway hits Opelousas

n case you haven’t heard the buzz, Sound Factory’s very own Mario can act. No, not act a fool, but he will be showing off his hidden talents when he at sincerity, and I have a tendency to think a little less of them. I think this is a period of honor and integrity. I wish everyone else felt this way too. As we move along into March, we have more celebrations to enjoy. Many people like the St. Patrick Day and St. Joseph Day activities as much as they do those during carnival season. I enjoy these holidays too, and I’ve spent many happy times in the French Quarter, in the Irish Channel, and in Metairie catching the parades and sipping on green beer. There is a little Irish and Italian in all of us, and we take advantage of the events by direct participation or just watching from the sidelines. It’s fun, and the people conducting these festivities are having a great time too. Baton Rouge actually has a nice Irish parade. Perkins Road becomes the greenest location in town, and it is especially great seeing the little ones have so much fun. I love to catch beads and then toss them to the little people who haven’t caught very much. I certainly don’t need another bead, and it makes me happy to make others happy by sharing the goods. I keep waiting for the Italians to come forth with a parade in Baton Rouge, but so far it hasn’t happened. There is one Italian event in the summertime where all the young ladies are presented and proudly seen marching with their fathers across the stage to the thrill of all family members present. It is a joyous time for everyone. Of course, my major background heritage is French, so why don’t we have a French parade? I’m sure we could do something, but I guess it could soon get out of hand if every nationality or ancestral groups started parading around. Maybe it should stay the way it is. Too much of a good thing is not always that good. After all, we have Easter coming on, and the Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving, and Christmas. My goodness! Time is flying past.

March Madness

ound Factory manager, Mitch Tate, has many things in store for the month of March. On Saturday, March 6th, you can look pretty in pink and help a good cause. Sound Factory will be hosting a benefit for the American Cancer Society of Acadiana. Whoever thought drinking could lead to such a good thing? On Saturday, March 13th Tate will be celebrating his birthday. Come out and wish him a happy birthday. Sssshhh, I hear he’s turning 65. I guess it will be time for him to fill out his AARP application. Tate will be celebrating his birthday with dollar night so come out and toast to Mitch.

The biggest social event of the season will the Lafayette’s first official Gay Prom. Tickets will soon be on sale so get ready. On March 20th, Sound Factory will be transformed into your old high school gym. Will not literally but you get the point. Just keep in mind this isn’t your typical theme party. This is gay prom so no t-shirt and jeans will be allowed. Tickets can be purchased from yours truly or your favorite Sound Factory bartender. Tickets are $15 per couple of $10 per person at the door. Remember when you purchase your tickets to cast your vote for King and Queen. If you haven’t noticed, Jules has had many recent changes. Personally I’ve had the fortunate of being told quite a few yet I am kept to secrecy. Some things are sure to never change such as a quirky smile from Steven, the hot attire worn by Sam, Joe and Justin doing their infamous free shots on the bar, Whitney serving your cocktails with attitude, or Ryan being quick to serve your favorite drink; Jules owners Darren Parker and Wendy Wallace will always keep their oath to supply you with a great time. Just keep your eyes open and odds are you will find out here first. With that said, keep reading because there is much more to come. Don’t forget that Festival time is right around the corner! Remember when Acadiana happens it’s always something special, and as always, you’re listening up with Joey Collins, girl.

Atlanta & Pensacola Boys party @ B-Bob’s for Mardi Gras

2010 Order of Osiris King Anthony & Queen Michelle with Mobile’s Miss Cie

mobile

Steven & DJ Chromatic party @ B-Bob’s

papar azzi Biloxi’s Miss Toni Dee, performs @ B-Bob’s for Mardi Gras

Miss Valerie Hart performs @ B-Bob’s, Mobile & Emerald City, Pensacola

Miss Florida USofA 2010, Miss Amy Miss Amy Demilo, Tampa, performs @ B-Bob’s for Joe Cain Sunday

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Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John

acadiana happens

performs in Jekyll and Hyde. This March Mario along with Bradley Credeur , would love to invite you to experience the culture of a time honored play about the internal struggles of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Sebastien-Dupre Fine Jewelry which is located at 822 South Main Street in Opelousas, LA. You may also purchase tickets via phone at 337.948.4367. Tickets purchased via phone can be picked up the night of the performance at The Delta Grand. For ticket information along with performance dates please call 337.948.4367 or visit www.opelousaslittletheatre.com. You won’t want to miss Bradley and Mario belting out a tune or two.

Mother & daughter

Mika & Friends

Olympus Rocks!!!

Lulu & Celeste David Rikki-G & DJ P

The New & Improved Miss Gia

alexandria

papar azzi

Chelsea D Divine

Dominique back on our stage

Dominique, Michelle & Dee

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The Stars Come Out @ Olympus Bar ~ Alexandria, Louisiana

Angelina’s Debut

Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLII: Masquerade ~ New Orleans

snap paparazzi

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snap Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXVII: Lost New Orleans...It Ain't Here No More! ~ New Orleans

paparazzi

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