2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
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O/AIDS Task Force Director of Development Cheryl Grace, New Orleans Councilmember Jackie Clarkson, NO/AIDS Task Force Executive Director Noel Twilbeck, Actor Bryan Batt and Actress Patricia Clarkson celebrate at the 21st NO/AIDS Walk raising some $170,000 at Audubon Park in New Orleans. Funds raised are used for the prevention, care and support services of NO/AIDS Task Force and other Louisiana AIDS service organizations through the Walk Share Grant Program. The NO/AIDS Walk is one of the largest HIV/AIDS fundraisers in Louisiana, which helps improve the lives of thousands affected by this disease. For more information, visit NOAIDSTaskForce.ORG.
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mbush Theatre Critic Brian Sands receives his award as Top Individual Walker in the 21st NO/AIDS Walk raising $12,080 from NO/AIDS Task Force Director of Development Cheryl Grace. It took Sands seven years to topple Toby Lefort who was Top Individual Walker from 2003-2009. Previously it took Lefort ten years to topple the first long time Top Individual Walker Rip Naquin who carried the title from 1993-2002.
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ecadent Ducks' Events Manager John Hurley, and Leader Troy Richardson, join NO/AIDS Task Force Director of Client Services Lisa Breland, and Food For Friends Program Manager Glen Kahrman, as they present over $3,200 to Food For Friends. The Decadent Ducks donation was raised over the 39th Southern Decadence weekend as the group celebrated its 13th year in attendance. For more information visit DecadentDucks.COM.
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merican Idol singing sensation Adam Lambert joins Bourbon Pub Parade owner Sandy Sachs (above). Lambert stopped in the popular Bourbon Street dance club following his 2010 Glam Nation Tour concert in support of his debut album, For Your Entertainment, at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre. Visit BourbonPub.COM for more club info.
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utter's Dudley LeBlanc, Mac McAll and Jimmy Kilgour host the opening reception for the annual Art in the Hood exhibition October 1st featuring works by a multitude of talented artist all benefiting Buzzy’s Boys & Girls at Cutter’s in New Orleans. Since 2003, the event has raised over $21,000 to date for the popular AIDS charity. You can donate and purchase art throughout the month of October to help Buzzy's Boys & Girls. Visit CuttersBar.BIZ for more information.
he Krewe of Amon-Ra crowned Gus Bouvier (aka Gizelle Bouvier) and Antoinette Ella Chardonnay (aka Tony Leggio) as Mr. and Miss Turnabout (right) at JohnPaul's in New Orleans at the krewe's September Sister Sunday Social. The event helped raise funds to put on the krewe's 46th bal masque on Saturday, February 5, 2011 at the St. Bernard Cultural Center. Visit KreweOfAmonRa.COM for more info.
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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
NO/AIDS Walks Brings in $170,000; Brian Sands Topples Toby Lefort as Top Individual Walker
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he 21st annual NO/AIDS Walk raised some $170,000 with over 3,500 walkers. The top fundraising individuals were practically neck and neck this year, with Brian Sands toppling Toby Lefort as Top Individual Walker by only $55. Sands collected $12,080 for this year’s Walk walking in honor of his father who recently passed away. Lefort raised $12,025. Top Teams included: School – Trinity Episcopal, University – Tulane, Team – Soles United, Corporate Team – Chevron. This year NO/AIDS Task Force hoped to raise $200,000 to assist those living with HIV/AIDS in Louisiana. Monies raised at the Walk go not only to helping the clients of NO/AIDS Task Force, but also to other AIDS service organizations in Louisiana through the Walk Share Grant Program. For more or how to donate, visit NOAIDSTaskForce.ORG.
13th Decadent Ducks Southern Decadence Visit Raises Over $3,200 for Food For Friends
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he Decadent Ducks have flown the coop, but not before donating over $3,200 to Food For Friends, a program of NO/AIDS Task Force. The Ducks are a travel and social network, celebrating their 13th year attending Southern Decadence. This year, they arrived with 350 members in tow, but took time out of the weekend revelry to raise money for a great cause. The leader of the Ducks, Troy Richardson, called this year’s annual festival the best ever. “Many people have said that this was the best Decadence they have ever been to! It was a beautiful weekend in New Orleans weather wise.” In addition to the fundraiser for Food For Friends held at the Omni Royal Orleans, Richardson organized a plantation tour for members of the group, a special lunch at Bacco and several events at 700 Club, the Official Bar of the Decadent Ducks. New to this year was a tour of a Rum Distillery and a Bicycle Tour of the Garden District. “We want to make sure all our members are out there, having a good time, enjoying everything the city has to offer, putting money back into New Orleans,” Richardson says. “It’s a busy weekend overall, but we’re always looking for more to do, more to offer the group.” The weekend culminated in a tour of the NO/ AIDS Task Force facilities and the Food For Friends center of operations. The Ducks were impressed with the scope and range of services offered by the Task Force. “It’s a huge undertaking,” Richardson observes. “They do amazing work, and we’re grateful they took the time out of their busy schedule to show us around.” The Ducks organize several trips throughout the year but Southern Decadence is their biggest event of the year, attended by group members from all over the world. This year, members traveled to New Orleans from as far away as the UK and Spain, and though this year’s event just ended, Richardson is already making plans for next year. “I could schedule a whole month in New Orleans, and still not do and see everything. That’s why we keep coming back. The possibilities are endless.” You can learn more about the Decadent Ducks at www.decadentducks.com.
Vote October 2 in State & Parish Elections
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he Federal offices party runoff and local offices open primary is Saturday, October 2. The election includes: Lieutenant Governor - James “Jim” Crowley, “Jay” Dardenne, Kevin Davis, Caroline Fayard, “Butch” Gautreaux, “Sammy” Kershaw, Melanie J. McKnight, Roger Villiere; Public Service Commissioner District 3 - Lambert C. Boissiere III, John F. Schwegmann; State Senator 2nd Senatorial District - Michael “Mike” Darnell, Ira Thomas, Edward R. Washington III, Cynthia Williard-Lewis; Judge Juvenile Court, Section C - Candice Bates-Anderson, Jacqueline CarrollGilds, Richard Exnicios, Catrice Johnson-Reed; Judge 1st City Court, Section C - Jennifer B. Eagan, Mark Michael Gonzalez, Veronica E. Henry, Angela C. Imbornone. Propositions on the October 2 Ballot include: 1. Eliminates the Department of Recreation (NORD) and establishes New Orleans Recreation Development Commission. 2. This proposition changes city council representation on Sewerage and Water Board. 3. Annual fee for French Quarter-Marigny Historic Management District. 4. Annual fee for Upper Hurstville Security District. Constitutional Amendments on the October 2 Ballot include:
inside celebrazzi real estate under the gaydar/new orleans snap paparazzi/nola snap paparazzi/nola trodding the boards/nola ambush paparazzi/new orleans classifieds
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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com ACT 537: Increases length of state legislative sessions and moves the effective date of enacted legislation from August 15 to August 1. ACT 538: Changes the status of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness from state civil service to unclassified.
Vote NO for French Quarter-Marigny Taxing District Oct. 2
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mbush recommends voting no on Proposition 3 in New Orleans which would institute an annual fee (additional property tax) for the French Quarter-Marigny Historic District. It's a waste of taxpayer money, and for renters, will drive rents up even higher.
Art In The Hood Kicks Off Oct. 1 at Cutter's
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he annual Art In The Hood exhibition kicks off with an opening reception Friday, October 1, 7pm, at Cutter's, 706 Franklin in New Orleans. It gives individuals the opportunity to donate unused artworks to the month-long exhibition with all proceeds benefiting the William J. Fanning Foundation, affectionately known as Buzzy's Boys & Girls. Since 2003, the event has allowed art lovers to purchase some rare and unusual finds raising over $21,000 for the popular AIDS charity. For more information on the bar, visit CuttersBar.BIZ or more on the organization, BuzzysBoysAndGirls.ORG.
2nd PensacolaPRIDE includes Mass Gay Wedding & Candidate Forum Oct. 5-11
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he 2nd annual PensacolaPRIDE, produced by Gay Grassroots of Northwest Florida, will be held Tuesday, October 5th through Monday, October 11th. Among the goals of the 2010 PensacolaPRIDE festival is to celebrate its value as a people, increase its visibility, and spotlight some of the ways LGBT persons have been marginalized and denied full civil rights. The bringing together of this year’s global pride theme of One Heart, One World, One Pride, and the mission statement of Gay Grassroots, “To bring together nonpartisan activist to advocate for the full UNDERSTANDING, RESPECT, EQUALITY, AND INCLUSION, of Gays, Lesbians, Bisexual, and Transgender Persons living
in Northwest Florida,” has added three powerful events to the week of activities. During the largest event of the week,
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THE OFFICIAL MAG
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide 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-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, 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 Devin Black, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen, Jeff Palmquist-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John-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
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the "official" dish ...from 9 The Festival in the Park, to be held Saturday October 9, in historic Old Seville Sqaure, Gay Grassroots of Northwest Florida will conduct a Mass Gay Wedding, Wedding of Hearts, at 12noon. While the federal and state government continues to deny LGBTs the right to marry, and the over 1,300 rights that marriage equality would ensure, no one can deny the community a wedding ceremony. Wedding of Hearts, while not a legally recognized marriage ceremony, will allow same gender couples the opportunity to publicly exchange their vows of love and commitment to each other as the community stands as witness to the fact that love is love whenever it is shared by two people, gay, bi, or straight. This Wedding of Hearts ceremony will be officiated by Rev. Sandy O’Steen, of the Holy Cross Metropolitan Church. All couples are welcome to exchange their vows for the first time, or renew vows they may have traveled out of state to perform; everyone who pre-registers at http//:www.surveymonkey.com/s/ LHZXD5B will receive a free “Wedding of Hearts” certificate. This ceremony is also free and registration is not required for participation. While this Mass Wedding may get most of the attention of the day, Gay Grassroots will begin the day by spotlighting another topical issue, the brave LGBT service men and woman and the continuing battle of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” The opening of the festival in the Park will begin at 11:30am with a tribute to LGBT brothers and sisters who have unselfishly served the country with great distinction, protecting the very civil rights the
government has yet to provide them. Before the American Flag is raised and National Anthem is sung, all LGBT Veterans and Active Service men and woman will be invited to come onto the stage, during our Military Honor so that the community may thank them for their service and dedication to the idea of freedom. It will be acknowledge that due to the unjust and archaic “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” policy that there
ber all local, state, and federal candidates who will be on the November 2nd ballots in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties were asked to complete a brief online survey with questions pertaining to LGBT equality. At the same time these candidates were invited to participate in this forum where members of the LGBT community will have the opportunity to ask their own questions. How fitting to ask those seeking LGBT votes to bring their positions on LGBT issues out of their closet on National Coming Out Day. While planning this year’s celebration, members of the local LGBT community were asked to complete an on-line survey with suggestions for this year’s PensacolaPRIDE. It was these suggestions that formed this year’s line up. PensacolaPRIDE kicks off on Tuesday, October 5th with a tropical luau at the new LGBT Community Center, Equality House, 309 W. Gregory St. This will be the 1st official function to take place at the new home. Other events include the return of chili dinner & square dance, disco skate party, plus the other new additions of a dinner & movie night, “so you think you got talent” an LGBT talent contest with over $400 in prizes, where the audience becomes the 4th judge, and a special pride concert with Jazz Superstar Daphne Mushatt. Here is a complete run down of all the 2010 PensacolaPRIDE events: Tickets to all events are now on sale at the Equality House, 309 W Gregory St., 850.429.7551. Visit Facebook and look up Pensacola Pride.
GLBT History Month Celebrates 5th Anniversary: 155 Icons
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may be many others in attendance that are unable to share the stage and receive the honor and recognition they so rightfully deserve. After these two important events PensacolaPRIDE’s Festival in the Park will continue til 6pm with live entertainment, festival food, and art, craft, and informational vendors. Another new addition to this year’s line up is the 1st ever Candidate’s LGBT Equality Forum, to take place Monday October 11th (National Coming Out Day) at the Tryon Branch Library, 1200 Langley Ave., beginning at 6pm. In early Septem-
010 marks the 5th Anniversary of GLBT History Month. “In just five years, GLBT History Month has mushroomed into our community’s most collaborative project with over 650 organizations having GLBT History Month links on their Web sites,” stated Malcolm Lazin, Executive Director, Equality Forum, and founder of GLBT History Month. “Our community has made profound international contributions as reflected by Alexander the Great, James Baldwin, environmental movement pioneer Rachel Carson, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Eleanor Roosevelt, Tchaikovsky, Alan Turing, Walt Whitman and Oscar Wilde.” “Our nation has been enriched by Leonard Bernstein, George Washington Carver, George Eastman, Barney Frank, Philip Johnson, Alfred Kinsey, Annie Leibovitz, Margaret Mead, Suze Orman, Bayard Rustin and Gore Vidal.” “Our culture would not be the same without Alvin Ailey, Jr., Ellen DeGeneres,
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9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. Tom Ford, Cary Grant, Keith Haring, Elton John, Jasper Johns, Bill T. Jones, Tony Kushner, k.d. lang, Jane Lynch, Rachel Maddow, Martina Navratilova, Cole Porter, Bessie Smith, Gianni Versace, Andy Warhol and John Waters.” GLBT History Month celebrates civil rights heroes such as Tim Gill, Barbara Gittings, Jim Hormel, Cleve Jones, Frank Kameny, Bishop Gene Robinson and Matthew Shepard,” said Lazin. Across the spectrum of 155 Icons, we have so much to be proud of in these remarkable role models and historic figures.” Since 2006, Equality Forum has offered, free of charge, videos, bios, bibliographies, downloadable images and other resources for 31 GLBT History Month Icons each October at GLBTHistoryMonth.COM. To celebrate the 5th anniversary, Equality Forum has created commemorative resources including graphically designed lists of the 155 GLBT History Month Icons from 2006 to 2010 and a special edition 5th Anniversary Poster. All of the 5th Anniversary resources are available for free on the GLBT History Month Website. Click on “Archives” to access all five GLBT History Month Web sites’ resources. Click on “5th Anniversary” to download and print any of the 5th Anniversary resources. Beginning October 1, 2010, a GLBT Icon is presented daily, with a video, bio, bibliography, downloadable images and other resources – all provided for free. The 124 Icons with resources for 2006 – 2009 and a 2 ½ minute overview video showcasing all 31 of the 2010 GLBT Icons are available on the site. By the end of Octo-
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Phoenix patio. A continental breakfast will be available Saturday morning at 10am and the afternoon will include BDSM demos on such subjects as temporary piercings, electric play, rope bondage, and flogging. Demos begin at 1pm at JohnPaul’s. The contest starts promptly on Saturday evening at 8pm at Dance Bar of the Year Oz. Judges for the contest include International Mr. Leather 1995 Larry Everett, International Mr. Bear 2009 John David, Kevin Coakley, Mina Hernandez, and the current Gulfcoast LeatherSir Dan Azevado. Tickets for the contest are $15 available from any krewe member or at the door. The weekend concludes on Sunday with the Mr. Louisiana Leather Brunch beginning at 1pm at JohnPaul’s. Brunch admission is $10. In 1989, The Mystic Krewe of the Lords of Leather first sponsored a contest for Mr. New Orleans Leather. In 1993 the contest grew to encompass the geographic area of the state by evolving into the Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest. The title is nationally recognized and acknowledged by the leather community worldwide. The winner becomes eligible to compete in International Mr. Leather (IML) held annually in Chicago. For general information or for a contestant application and brochure, please visit LordsOfLeather.COM.
37th Algiers Point Home Tour Oct. 16-17
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the "official" dish ...from 10 ber, all 155 Icons’ resources from 2006 to 2010 will be archived on the site. The 31 Icon videos can be embedded without charge on Web sites, blogs or social networking pages by following the instructions on the site. Once embedded, the video player will automatically update the daily Icon video. GLBT History Month posters, Icon lists, graphically-designed Icon bios and images can be downloaded or printed by clicking on “Resources.” These resources can be used to make a GLBT History Month Exhibit. Equality Forum and GLSEN are sponsoring a GLBT History Month Exhibit Contest for high school GSAs. To receive the latest updates and ideas about celebrating GLBT History Month 2010, organizations or individuals can register for free at www.tinyurl.com/GLBTHistory-Month-Form. Equality Forum is a national and international GLBT civil rights organization with an educational focus. Equality Forum
coordinates GLBT History Month, produces documentary films, undertakes high impact initiatives and presents annually the largest national and international GLBT civil rights summit. Visit EqualityForum.COM.
The Forbidden House and Garden Tour of the Vieux Carre Oct. 10
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n Sunday, October 10th, 10:30am, the Krewe of Armeinius will hold a fundraising tour, The Forbidden House and Garden Tour of the Vieux Carre, of rarely seen private homes and gardens to raise money toward their 43rd carnival ball tableau. Through association with Fredrick Guess Studio, the krewe is fortunate to have these landmark multi-million dollar properties open for tour for a few hours prior to the Saints vs. Cardinals game. Some will be garden/patio only. There will be refreshments and silent auction tables. The tour begins at Fredrick Guess
Studio, 910 Royal Street beginning at 10:30am with last tickets at 1:30pm with tour closing at 2:30pm. A minimum donation of $20 allows access to the tour properties. For more information about the Krewe of Armeinius and the 43rd carnival ball tableau please visit the krewe's website www.kreweofarmeinius.org.
Mr. Louisiana Leather October 15-17
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he Lords of Leather prepare to bestow the title of Mr. Lousiana Leather 2011 during the 2011 Mr. Louisiana Leather Weekend, October 15th - 17th. A full schedule of leatheroriented activities and informative demonstrations are planned throughout the weekend. The weekend begins with a “Meat & Greet” beer bust from 9pm to midnight at the Phoenix on Friday where attendees have an opportunity to mingle with the contestants and judges. Unlimited beer and soda will be offered for $5 on the
he Algiers Point Association’s 37th annual Home Tour will take place Saturday, October 16th and Sunday, October 17th, from 11am to 5pm each day. One of New Orleans’ most beautiful and historic neighborhoods – and, at 12 feet above sea level, one of its safest – Algiers Point’s wonderful homes are showcased in this annual event. This year’s tour will showcase seven distinctive homes with a range of architectural and renovation styles as well as three churches. In different ways, the homes – and their owners – represent the unique character of this beautiful neighborhood. They are all within an easy walk – one to five blocks – of the Algiers Ferry Landing, making it particularly easy for visitors to join us by coming across on the Canal Street Ferry. Each home will be staffed by volunteers who can answer questions about the neighborhood and about the home. A map will be included in the brochure received at registration. Take the bridge or the Canal Street Ferry, a fantastic five-minute ride from downtown and the French Quarter, which runs until midnight every night. The ferry departs the East Bank at 15 and 45 minutes after each hour, and the West Bank on the hour and half hour. Tour tickets are $12 per day in advance, $15 on the day of the event. Advance tickets can be purchased by calling 504.361.0736, by mailing checks payable to “Algiers Point Association” to Steve Summers, 235 Olivier Street, New Orleans, LA 70114, at the Whitney Bank on 501 Verret Street, at Vine & Dine on 141 Delaronde, at Aunt Leni’s on 323 Verret Street, and at Tout de Suite on 347 Verret Street or by visiting www.algierspoint.org. During the
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real estate LGBT Real Estate Tips - Why Economists Recommend Buying Now
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ver the past six months there have many statistical indications that the housing market has not only found a solid floor but is also gaining traction and upward momentum. But with unemployment still disturbingly high and the overall economy lackluster, LGBT home shoppers have plenty of compelling reasons to maintain their sense of wariness and skepticism. Many are justifiably ambivalent and have been sitting on
the sidelines, waiting for a clear signal that the worst is over and that sustainable stability is returning to the real estate market. There is no shortage of bad news in the world, especially in terms of the global economy. But there is also good news for those who are eager for some definitive guidance regarding the value of American real estate. LGBT buyers will find lots of level-headed insight, for example, in recent statements and well-informed predictions made by some of the country’s leading real estate economists. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors, explained in the Wall Street Journal that “given the rockbottom mortgage interest rates and historically high housing
affordability conditions, the pace of a sales recovery could pick up quickly.” Mortgage rates are currently at historically low levels and a qualified homebuyer can find safe and predictable fixed rate loans for about 4.25 percent interest. That’s a steal. But pair that with housing affordability and a generous inventory to choose from and the buying opportunity is virtually unprecedented. “Fifteen metropolitan areas in the 20-City Composite Index experienced annual house price growth in June, compared to 13 in May and 11 in April,” Amy Crews Cutts, the Deputy Chief Economist at Freddie Mac recently told reporters. “Home prices rose 2.3 percent between the first and second quarter of this year,” she added, “reaching the highest level since the fourth quarter of 2008, according to the Standard & Poor’s Case-Shiller National Home Price Index.” Meanwhile Karl Case – a professor emeritus of economics at Wellesley and the co-creator of that widely respected Case-Shiller housing index – recently told an interviewer on National Public Radio that this is definitely the best time to buy within the last four or five years. But what is even more significant is that Case said that although it is still too soon to tell, this may be the best time to buy a home that he has seen in his entire lifetime. As Case explained, “Do the math. Four years ago, the monthly payment on a $300,000 house with 20 percent down and a mortgage rate of about 6.6 percent was $1,533. Today that $300,000 house would sell for $213,000 and a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with 20 percent down would carry a rate of about 4.2 percent and a monthly payment of $833. In addition, the down payment would be $42,600 instead of $60,000.” LGBT buyers should be encouraged and excited by those statements, but they should also heed the advice that Professor Case gave regarding the importance of being selective and realistic. He pointed out that at no time in history has it been smart to buy more house than a person can comfortably afford, or to pay more for a house than it is actually worth. Before the housing bubble burst, for example, many LGBT buyers thought that they should purchase the most expensive house possible, because that would give them a larger profit when they sold it two or three years later. Many ended up with homes they could not afford because they saw the purchase as a get-rich-quick scheme, not a long term investment. But as Case explained, when a person pays a decent price and buys a home that they can reasonably afford they have lots of built-in protection. The house may lose value in a bear market but they still have a home to call their own, and that represents a tremendous amount of personal security. If the same person invests their money in the stock market and the stock market collapses they can lose everything and have nothing to show for it. “Consider it this way,” said Case. “When Enron went belly up, shareholders ended up with nothing, but when the housing market drops, homeowners still have a house.” Case also pointed out that a big part of the yield on any investment in a house is capital gains that the homeowner captures if he or she sells in the future for a higher price. Those gains can be substantial, especially for LGBT buyers who invest while prices are still exceptionally low in the wake of the housing recession. Plus those gains are usually completely exempt from taxation as long as the home was used as a primary residence. Payments of mortgage interest also offer one of the best tax deductions, and that only adds to the attractive return on investment that is possible through home ownership. To find real estate professionals devoted to serving the LGBT community, visit GayRealEstate.COM, or call toll free 1.888.420.MOVE (6683). The site is home to the largest online network of LGBT Realtors in the world.
the "official" dish ...from 12 tour, tickets can be purchased at the registration table in front of the Algiers Courthouse on 225 Morgan Street. Proceeds will benefit non-profit organizations and efforts in Algiers Point to promote tourism and to improve the quality of life in Algiers Point. For more information, please call the tour Chairperson, Nathalie Bastin at 504.361.0736 or nati1965@yahoo.com.
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Would You Like Some Candy?
Book of the Month: September
he French Quarter has a new specialty dessert and food store and it is a excellent addition to the area. The Candy Bar opened on Thursday, September 2, just in time to greet the throngs of people in for Southern Decadence and it is a huge success among the locals and visitors alike. Located at 908 Bourbon Street, next to the Clover Grill and across from Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Candy Bar has so much to offer. They will be adding products from small manufacturers locally and across the globe, in addition to carrying many all-natural, glutenfree and organic products. Candy Bar has a modern and spacious atmosphere with a very neighborhood feel, which blends in perfectly with the French Quarter environs. Besides the food items, they have an enormous beverage selection from coffee and tea by the cup, to sodas, juices and energy drinks. And their bar supplies and mixers section is a mixologist’s dream. Also, sweets are not the only thing on hand, they provide sandwiches and po-boys, home-made quiches, fresh salads, New York Bagels and knishes, Sabrett hot dogs and assorted cheeses and crackers. They even have organic and allnatural dog treats for man’s best friend. The staff is courteous and friendly, especially Eddie, who happens to be my newest “it” boy, and who can definitely give anyone a sweet tooth. Currently, Candy Bar is closed on Mondays. Their hours of operation are Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday 6am to midnight and 24 hours on Thursday through Saturday. So go by and say hi to Eddie and the rest of the staff at Candy Bar. For more information, call 504-52-CANDY or join them on Facebook.
eing an avid reader, I remember fondly reading the classic novels in my high school and college literature courses. And even though romance was never my genre of choice, I loved Jane Austen’s books. Being gay, I am not sure what exactly drew me towards these novels, maybe it was the strong female leads or the general cattiness of all the characters, but whatever it was, I enjoyed them thoroughly But even I have to admit, that sometimes Ms. Austen’s books were a little difficult to get through. You have to love the Olde English. That is why I was excited to see Seth Grahame-Smith’s retooling of a beloved Austen classic. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is one of the funniest books I have ever read. Do not get me wrong it is completely Jane Austen’s work with a bit of a demented twist. The novel begins with the zombie presence having invaded England for five and fifty years, the elder Bennets have had their daughters trained through the help of Chinese masters how to become savage zombie slayers. Our feisty heroine, Elizabeth, has become one of the best “unmentionable” killers in the land. When her elder sister Jane falls for Mr. Bingley, a man well above her family‘s status, Elizabeth finds that the social prejudices may prove to be even harder to contend with than the zombies. Enter the arrogant Mr. Darcy to the scene and Elizabeth finds herself in civilized battle of wills. This is one novel that lives up to the hype. According to Grahame-Smith, the idea for Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, came from his editor at Quirk Books, Jason Rekulak. Using Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride and Prejudice, as a platform, Rekulak suggested that GrahameSmith mix a zombie plot into the public domain novel, effectively creating one of the first literary mash-ups. Enamored with the idea, Grahame-Smith immediately began working on the novel, first by reading Pride and Prejudice and then by meticulously plotting out where to insert the zombie elements, a process he has described as similar to microsurgery. Though Quirk Books was initially reluctant to publish the book in fear of alienating Austen’s fans, the novel went to press in 2009, with modest sales expectations. In the weeks prior to the release, however, the book’s popularity swelled dramatically as the cover and title of the novel circulated the internet. Anticipation for the book grew so rapidly that in its first week of release, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies surged to #3 on the New York Times Best Seller list. Since that time, the novel has sold over a million copies and been translated into over 20 languages. With illustrations done by Philip Smiley, this book is destined to become a new classic. The author does a seamless job of integrating the zombie storyline into
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Dinner and A Murder
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here will be a murder at 2041 Prytania Street every Saturday night during the month of October. The Henry Howard House Bed and Breakfast, located one block off of St. Charles in the heart of the Garden District, is presenting a murder mystery dinner every Saturday night in October benefiting the NO/AIDS Task Force. Treat yourself to an overnight stay for two, dinner, participation in the murder mystery game, and breakfast in the morning for the low price of $150 per couple. How good are your detective skills? You can be one of only 16 couples allowed each week to participate. Imagine enjoying a sumptuous catered dinner intertwined with mystery, intrigue, cocktails, and of course, murder. So come and enjoy a little bit of scary fun this Halloween season at the Henry Howard House. Please call 504.561.8550 to register and book your room. On-Line booking is not available for this event. For more information on the house, go to www.henryhowardhouseinn.com.
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the action. This book plays to readers of all genres from historical romance fans to science fiction lovers. Definitely put Pride and Prejudice and Zombies on your must read list, you will not be disappointed.
Acclaim Awards Gala
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he Forum for Equality presents their Annual Acclaim Awards Gala on Saturday, October 9, 6pm, at the JW Marriott. Guests will enjoy a wonderful dinner, auction, awards presentation and entertainment by Fredy Omar con su Banda and Harry Mayronne. The keynote speakers for the evening will be Jon and Michael Galluccio, authors of An American Family. The 2010 Acclaim Award recipients are Becky Allen, Ted Baldwin, Mike Kaiser, M.D., Kelly Bryson, Arthur Morrell, Cynthia Hedge -Morrell, J.P Morrell and Marc Behar, D.C. Tickets are $150 and may be purchased at www.forumforequality.com or by calling 504.569.9156.
2010/2011 Broadway Season Begins
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he Broadway Series is kicking off on Tuesday, September 28 with Cirque Dreams Illumination. Until the Saenger Theatre reopens in September 2011, the beautifully renovated Mahalia Jackson Theatre once again will play host to the fabulous shows this season. And, this year’s line-up is filled with a mixture of classic revivals, current hits and eye catching spectacles. Cirque Dreams Illumination, which is no relation to Cirque du Soleil, is from the creators of the groundbreaking BROADWAY hit Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy. This show is an all new journey of nighttime dreamers whose imaginations are ignited within a landscape of towering buildings and infinite possibilities. Created and directed by Neil Goldberg, Cirque Dreams Illumination tells the story of city dwellers who reinvent everyday objects, balance beyond belief, delicately dangle from wires, leap tall buildings and redefine the risks of flight in an array of astounding occurrences that transform the ordinary into extraordinary. An international cast of world-class acrobats, athletes, musicians and one of a kind artists populate this imaginative, colorful metropolis and breathe life into over 100 inventive costumes, an original musical score, and magical sights that transform the landscape of a city into thrills and disbelief. The show opens Sept. 28 and runs through Oct. 3. Rounding out the season is Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles, which runs Nov. 37. Rain follows the fab four from their mop-topped beginnings to their psychedelic dabblings of the late 1960s, with a fusion of historical video footage and live performances by uncanny impersonators. Next up is the winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot, which runs Dec. 14-19 and is an adaptation of the comedy troupe’s signature film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail. They are followed by West Side Story, the 1950s New York-set retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, which runs March 15-20, 2011. The season will close with the Blockbuster hit Shrek the Musical, based on the popular series of animated films. Shows are May 30-June 5, 2011. Tickets for Cirque Dreams Illumina-
tion are available for purchase at the Mahalia Jackson Theater Box Office located in Armstrong Park at 801 N. Rampart Street. Tickets are also available at all Ticketmaster locations, www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800.982.2787 (ARTS). Group Sales information, including group discounts for 20 or more, is available by calling 504.287.0372. Box Office information is available at 504.287.0351.
National Coming Out Day
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t must be some sort of karma that my birthday falls on National Coming Out Day, October 11. What a great holiday to have on your birthday. Feel free to send presents to the Ambush offices if you like. I am just joking, this day is very special to me, and not because I entered the world, although that is a pretty good reason if I say so myself. The reason is that I am gay and fabulous, and the fact that I can announce that in print without repercussions speaks volumes for how far our community has come in the last fifty years. For me, it is also a day of remembrance for all those people who have fought so hard to give us the rights we have now as a gay men and women. So many gay people have taken it for granted what our forefathers and mothers have done to pave the way for us. In some countries, they put gay people in jail or worse yet death. WTF! And yet today, we still fight the battle for equal rights against hatred and bigotry which still runs rampant in our country. We also need to be grateful to our allies and friends who support our decision to be who we are, and not live in the closet anymore. It is also a time that I am thankful for my family who have accepted me unconditionally, especially my mom. So many people are not as lucky to have the support and love of their family particularly when they make one of the hardest decisions of their life. And that is why we celebrate who we are, and let others know they are not alone in their decision to come out, that they have friends and the support of a worldwide community who will back them. United as one voice and one people, we are an unstoppable force. So I thought that a little history lesson on the holiday would be in order. I love me some Wikipedia. National Coming Out Day is an internationally-observed civil awareness day for coming out and discussion about gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues. It is observed by members of the LGBT communities and their supporters (allies) on October 11 every year, or October 12 in the United Kingdom (the Brits always have to be different). It is highly encouraged for participants on this day to wear gay pride symbols, such as the pink triangle (gay men), the black triangle (lesbians), the Greek letter “Lambda and rainbows in jewelry and on clothing. The day was founded by Dr. Robert Eichberg, his partner William Gamble and Jean O’Leary in 1988, acting on behalf of their organizations, The Experience and National Gay Rights Advocates, in celebration of the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights one year earlier, in which 500,000 people marched on Washington, DC, for gay and
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snap Bartender Aletha joins b-day girl Princesse Stephaney & Ambush’s Tony @ Lafitte’s
Princesse, Tony & JohnPaul’s John
Bartenders Justin & Stephen celebrate “Talk Like A Pirate Day” @ Good Friends Bar Gus Bouvier wins Amon-Ra’s Mr. Turnabout
Princesse joined by Marcy Marcell for her b-day bash @ JohnPaul’s
MC Blanche Debris does the honors Sundays @ Oz
Princesse Stephaney & Raven Kennedy
Antoinette Ella Chardonnay (Tony Leggio) wins Amon-Ra’s Miss Turnabout
Mercedes Ellis Loreal in Sunday Show Night @ Oz Appletini Revue’s Miss Dee & Stephany Lee flank Princesse Zsa Zsa d’LaHor & Princesse Stephaney Bartender Allen & DJ Bull welcome you to Oz
Oz’s Sunday Show Night brings Coca Milan to the stage
Princesse Stephaney & Eva “The Diva” Las Vegas
Johnny Passion, Princesse & Cat
Sharon sings for Princesse’s bday in the Golden Age Revue
Lulu from Brazil holds bachelorette party @ Lafitte’s
Princess Stephaney does Birthday Dingo @ Oz with Persana Shoulders
Photographer Lee Mullen joins Eva Las Vegas & Marcy Marcell for the Golden Age Revue
Sable Nicole Starr in Oz’s Sunday Show Night
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Excitement in The Big Easy ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen
Princesse Stephaney’s 50th Birthday Blowout ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen
paparazzi
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snap paparazzi
Dominique DeLorean in Oz’s Sunday Show Night
Woogie & Chris behind the bar @ Oz
Barry Bareass flanked by Patrick & Mercury in the Sunday Bareass Striptease Contest @ The Corner Pocket
Darrin, Justin & Chris @ Good Friends
Thursday Night’s Strip-Off Contest @ Oz
Colston with Brian & Ashley @ Bienville House party for Saints opener
Trandy & the ladies at the Saints opening game party @ Bienville House
Randy, Larry & Cameron catch the Golden Age Revue @ John Paul’s
Colston, Brian, Tony & BoBo @ Maison Dupuy for the Saints/SF Game
Christine & Emily @ Maison Dupuy Saints/SF party
Nick & Roy @ JohnPaul’s for Opal’s Follies
Opal’s joined by Petonius’ Bill for Opal’s Follies
Bartender Matt joins Mama Cookmeyer @ 700 Club
Bar baron Mike Cookmeyer welcomes you to 700 Club
Early weekend dancer (5pm til) Wesley joins bar baron Michael @ The Corner Pocket
Georgeanna Belle with her fan base from Mobile @ Opal’s Follies Bartender Franco & bar baron Michael @ The Corner Pocket
Deja Deja Vu, Jim & Ginger @ Opal’s Follies
Chefs John Besh, Anthony from the Rib Room & Dooky Chase IV on Tony Leggio’s float in the Saints Parade
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More Action ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio
The Strip-0ff Contest @ Oz
under the gaydar ...from 16 lesbian equality. National Coming Out Day events are aimed at raising awareness of the LGBT community among the general populace in an effort to give a familiar face to the LGBT rights movement. In the United States, the Human Rights Campaign manages the event under the National Coming Out Project, offering resources to LGBT individuals, couples, parents and children, as well as straight friends and relatives, to promote awareness of LGBT families living honest and open lives. Despite its name, National Coming Out Day (so called because it originated as an event in the United States) is in fact observed in many countries, including Switzerland, Germany, Canada, Croatia, Poland, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. So on my birthday, celebrate the fact that we can openly be who we want to be. Happy National Coming Out Day!
Are You Ready for Some Football!
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ootball season is here and what a way to start everything off with a parade through the French Quarter, a concert in Jackson Square and unbelievable parties all over the city. Growing up, I was never a football fan, but look at me now, touchdown turnaround I love it all. From the wide receivers to the tight ends, bring it all on, I am ready. And so is the Crescent City’s gay community. There are plenty of places to watch our boys hopefully follow the road to repeat and bring us back to the Super Bowl. The first New Orleans’ home game against the Vikings kicked off with a parade through the Quarter, which I was lucky enough to be a rider. I was on the Madden float along with my friend Derek from Florida. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life to see the throngs of happy people screaming for beads, while we danced and celebrated the entire route. We were lucky enough to have some of the city’s most famous restaurateurs (John Besh, Dooky Chase IV, and Anthony Spizale from the Rib Room) on the float with us, as well as ex Saints player Joe Horn. When we got to Jackson Square, the scene was just surreal, the concert was going on, we were passing and the crowds went wild. And that stage was out of this world. The NFL and this city make a great team, that is why we are so excited to be hosting the Super Bowl in 2013, because this city knows how to throw down. Dave Matthews and Taylor Swift rocked the Square for fans. After the parade, we went to a private party hosted at the Bienville House Hotel on Decatur Street with great game food, free flowing cocktails and a several large screen televisions in their private party space and courtyard. For the September 20th game against San Francisco, I found myself enjoying all the action at another private party at the Maison Dupuy in the French Quarter, once again with tasty game fare and more flowing cocktails. Don’t you love starting off the week with a bang and a hangover the next day. And what a nail biter, those Saints know how to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. But all the gay bars in the metropolitan area have game day specials. Lets start with the Double Play at 439 Dauphine Street, they offer free hot dogs with all the fixings and shots of Schnapps with each Saints touchdown. The Four Seasons out in Metairie at 3229 North Causeway and Billy’s in Slidell at 2600 Highway 190 West present the same deal. Good Friends at 740 Dauphine has the Weenie Man and the Juice Crew to keep Saint’s fans fed and well tanked, while JohnPaul’s in the Marigny at 940 Elysian Fields has teamed up with Odyssey House for some extra special fun. They have foods from Odyssey House, buttered popcorn, hot dogs and free jello shots with each Saints Touchdown. They also have a huge television that will make you feel like you are on the 50 yard line. The Corner Pocket at 940 St. Louis Street has food and drink specials during each
game. They also have lots of boys for you to live out your locker room fantasies with. The 700 Club give patrons all kinds of game specials such as $5 Crown and Smirnoff vodka, $2 Fatty Natty, free shots for Saints touchdowns and complimentary “Frito Pie.” Cutter's always has lavish food choices along with free shots with every Saints touchdown. Both Big Daddy's and The Friendly Bar offer food and free shots for Saints touchdowns. So no matter where you find yourself
celebrating another Saints’ victory, you can be assured that afterwards all the gay bars will become one major party. See you during halftime.
And A New Queen Is Born
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ever say never has been my mainstay motto in life and on Sunday, September 19, at
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
The Madwoman of Chaillot
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ased on the recent goings-on at the AllWays Lounge & Theatre, it’s fair to say that the best
under the gaydar ...from 21 JohnPaul’s, it proved me right once again. I love drag shows and all the entertainers whether good or bad, but I never felt the desire to do drag and so pretty much shied away from it. I hadn’t even dressed in female clothes for Halloween or Mardi Gras. So I attended Amon-Ra’s Turnabout event very innocently enough to have a few cocktails and hang out with my friends in the krewe. Well as fate would have it, they were short a person for their turnabout contest. This is when people who usually do not do drag, become a queen for a day, and vice versa as performers who normally do drag embrace their boy persona. Being one of those people who also believe in the mantra to live life to the fullest, I said what the hell, I’m game. So with Barbara Ella’s help, we ran back to my house and found an outfit for me to wear, more like a witch costume I had purchased a few years prior for a costume party that never had made it out of the box. I had very little choices as far as a drag wardrobe goes. With a rushed make-up application by Barbara Ella and some jewelry lent to me by Deja Déjà Vu, Antoinette Ella Chardonnay was born. So I guess Barbara Ella has become my drag mother. Frightening as my looks surely were, I have to admit, I felt pretty and that is all that matters. Although I resembled a cross between Kathy Najimy, Carnie Wilson and the dark haired sister from Heart. I had fun doing a show stopping rendition of “Defying Gravity,” from the Broadway play Wicked. I made some money for AmonRa, had a great time and amazingly enough brought home the crown. I am now Miss Turnabout 2010, look at me now, bitches! So with one title under my belt, I think the next step is Miss Gay America. It could happen. (Editor's Note: In your dreams!)
A New Stritch
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t had been over two weeks since the Tropical Depression Bubbles hit the Crescent City and a killer was revealed. I had been enjoying a little peace and quiet when my phone rang and it was Elaine Stritch, I mean Cathy Fox. She said that she was in some sort of trouble and needed my help, but she could not discuss it over the phone. To say that I was intrigued is putting it mildly. Unfortunately for me, I had some time to kill before we were set to meet so I stopped off to have a quick drink before I went to Cathy’s house. And that was the downfall of my day. Thirty minutes later, I stood outside Cathy Fox’s lavish home in the Marigny ringing the doorbell. She answered the door in a flowing white gown, high heeled
new play about the BP oil spill crisis, as
[continued on 36] slippers with feathers atop them, a mink stole and a martini in her hand. “Darling, you came right away, I am so happy to….,” then she stopped in mid sentence. “What is she doing here?” “Give it a rest, sister, you have a problem and we are here to solve it. Remember if it wasn’t for me and my bottle of vodka, that crazy little Nurse Haley would have filled you full of lead,” Elizabeth Bouvier said as she brushed pass her and into the house. “I am sorry, Cathy,” I said to her, “I ran into her at a bar and told her that I was coming to see you about a problem and she hopped into my car. She thinks we are some kind of crime fighting team now. I can’t seem to shake her.” “Well, come on in and have a seat in my living room.” She walked me into this stunning parlor with floor to ceiling photos of her in different outfits. She also had every crown, pin and gown she had ever won in a pageant along with the sashes displayed meticulously on mannequins. There were so many, I felt like I was in ladies clothing department at Macy’s. “Cathy, really, what you need is to put these in a museum. Some of these outfits could pass as fossils,” Elizabeth said as she went to the bar and started fixing herself a cocktail. “Help yourself, Betty Ford,” Cathy luxuriously spread herself on the chaise lounge. “Tony, since you and your little henchman Igor, did a wonderful job in finding Ms. Kazinsky’s killer, I thought you might be able to help me with a little problem that has arisen.” “First, off I do not appreciate that remark. I like to think of us as Cagney and Lacy, or Starsky and Hutch,” Elizabeth said putting the final touches on her vodka stinger. “More like Laurel and Hardy,” I said under my breath. “Well, whoever you are today, I need your help. You see sometimes I like the company of gentlemen without any, you know, strings attached. But being a celebrity, it is hard for me to have relationships, if you will, you know with the media as it is today. One bad move and they will have a field day. A modest girl like myself needs to be careful.“ “Modest, yes, you are practically Mother Teresa,“ Elizabeth gulped down the stinger quickly and fixed another one. “Hey, WC Fields, while you are at the bar, make me another martini,“ she continued. “Like I said, every once and a while a celebrity like myself crosses my paths with someone of my similar status and I can begin a torrid fling, because we are both of like circumstances. Like that time Mr. Matt Damon and I were together. Oh, Matt, it was brief and wonderful time.“ “Matt Damon, my ass, he was the bag
boy at the grocery store, you cougar, and if it wasn’t for it being three days after his birthday, you would have faced statutory rape charges. Either way you definitely contributed to the delinquency of that minor,“ Elizabeth said handing Cathy her martini. “Listen you cow, that was Matt, he was researching a role.“ “Yes, because a thirty something year old star needs to know how to be a bag boy at a supermarket. I bet that helped him loads while doing those Bourne movies. Or the other time you had the affair with George Clooney.” “It was some of the most beautiful hours of my life. He was an experienced lover and knew how to satisfy my every need,” Cathy reminisced. “He was a census taker who came to your door, and don’t try and say he was researching a role, because I have not seen one movie where he played the part of a government worker who bangs a has been star, unless he is remaking Sunset Boulevard.” “You always have to piss on my corn flakes, is it because you are jealous of my grace and beauty, or is it because the last time you got laid Sonny and Cher were still together.” “Ladies, lets stop this bickering and continue,“ I interrupted their catfight. “Yes, I am sorry, so you see, because of my standing in the community, I like to have discreet company every once and a while, so I hire a service for this.“ “Girl, you hired a gigilo, I love a good sex scandal in the morning. Tell me all about it,“ Elizabeth perked up. “Do not leave out any details. Better yet do you have any videos.“ “No you insatiable tramp, my little side pleasures has got me in trouble, it seems.” “How so?” Now I was attentive. Cathy took a long and heavy sigh. “I am being blackmailed by an unseemly young man, at least I think it is a man, their voice is disguised on the phone. It is all too much for me.” She dabbed a handkerchief to her fussily painted face. “He wants money,” Elizabeth said nodding, “what you needed to do is take yourself down to that Pocket place on the corner and find yourself one of those skinny boys. One good meal and a hot bath and they will mow your lawn all night, if you get my drift.” “Elizabeth really,” I said. “That is too much of a visual.” “Should we start on your sexual proclivities, Mr. Writer turned detective.” “What are you talking about, I am not a detective, and what do you mean by that statement.” “A partner knows,” she said winking at me. “I saw the way that Barbara Ella was sizing you up.” “We are not partners,” I did an eye roll. “Cathy, go on.” “Thank you, well this man does not want money. He wants my crowns. He wants every crown, pin and sash I have ever won in a pageant or he or she will go to the press. And you know that Ambush tabloid will just jump at this juicy story. I hear they outted that “Family Ties” woman last year.” “Your crowns, that is awful, do you have any idea who it could be,“ Elizabeth fixed another stinger for herself and martini for Cathy. She made a drink for me for good measure. “No you pickled fool, if I did I would not
need you guys now would I,” Elaine answered. “Look lady who has to pay for sex. Those type of men can smell money a mile away, that is why you are a target.“ “Look, Cathy, I would like to help, but I would not know where to start.” “I took the liberty of writing down the address and number of the service I use to procure my “friends,” she gave me a slip of paper. I took the paper, “Okay I will look into it, but I can’t promise anything.” “No worries, we are on the case, we will have this thing wrapped up in no time, now lets talk about our fee.” “Our fee?” I repeated. “Yes, our fee, Cathy cannot expect great detectives like us to work for free. We only do pro bono cases around the Christmas holiday for the orphans, and you hardly look like a malnourished, underprivileged sort. So how about two hundred dollars per day plus expenses.” “Done,” Cathy said. “Just make this problem go away.” We said our goodbyes and left. Elizabeth suggested we go back to JohnPaul’s for a quick discussion about the case. We walked into the bar and saw Little Debbie Snatchcakes working behind the counter. “Well, hello,” she said, “Are we having a blessed day. I know I am experiencing monumental jou today. When I was in here the other day when we found out that mean Nurse Haley turned out to be a man, I decided to quit my job as a candy striper and be a bar waitress. The tips are fantastic and I can offer my snatch to many more people.” “Why couldn’t she have been the killer,” Elizabeth said and we went to a table in the back. Debbie brought us our drinks and dropped a hot snatch on our table. “That is on me, because I like you two so much.” I turned back to Elizabeth. “Two hundred dollars a day plus expenses. How did you come up with that?” “That is what Mr. James Rockford in the Rockford Files charges. I have been up all night for the last few nights watching all these detective series honing my skills. I think we got a good thing going.” “Elizabeth, we do not have anything going. We are not detectives, we are not partners, now you need to stop all this foolishness.” “Honey, what you need to do is to be quiet and let me do all the negotiating. Now I was thinking we need a catchy name for our agency, something that means business but will look good on the tee shirts I am having made for us.” I put my head down on the table and groaned. “Now don’t be like that.” She pulled out her cell phone and dialed the number on the paper Cathy gave me. “Yes, Elizabeth Bouvier here, I would like to make an appointment. Thank you this evening would be lovely, at six. I will be right there.” She snapped the cell phone shut. “You see how easy that was. Now lets go and get ready, we have an appointment to see the city’s most notorious madams in a few hours.” “Aww hell,” was all I could say. (As with all my stories, this is a reenactment of actual events. The names have not been changed because no one is that innocent.) Have an event or have something of interest to the LGBT community, feel free to send press releases or information to tonymgp@hotmail.com.
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ambush
papar azzi
Carol slinging cocktails @ Le Roundup
TJ, Chad & Lindsay @ NO/AIDS Walk Bartenders Blake & Spencer kick off the Saints Tailgate parties @ Good Friends
Bywater Restaurant’s John & Mike @ Rawhide Cutter’s bar baron Mac Lords of Leather’s Pres. Michael Albracht & Armeinius’ Bruce Orgeron
Bears Beer Bust @ Rawhide
Jeff, Princesse & Lauren @ NO/AIDS Walk
Friendly Bar gang @ 700 Club
Celebrating birthdays @ Cutter’s Capital One makes appearance @ NO/AIDS Walk
Bears serve dogs & burgers @ Rawhide Charles serves up your favorite cocktail @ Society Page Ambush's Tony Leggio snags a couple of cuties @ Bourbon Pub NO/AIDS Walk brings out the hot boys of Southeast Louisiana
Bourbon Pub Parade’s Sandy & Ambush’s Marsha
Bartender Bruce & Diva R Us’ Rikki Redd @ Corner Pocket
Adam Lambert & company pop in to the Bourbon Pub following his New Orleans concert
Patricia Clarkson on stage @ NO/AIDS Walk
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Bar Spill, NO/AIDS Walk ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen
Bartender Eric joins Jeff @ Rawhide
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CANAL STREET
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600
RAMPART
ST. LOUIS
BURGUNDY
400
DAUPHINE
ROYAL
CHARTES
DECATUR
CONTI
BOURBON
ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN
800
bookstores
900
New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 MR. BINKY'S BOUTIQUE, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095 MR. BINKY'S BOUTIQUE OF HARAHAN, 301 Funston St., 305.2160
DUMAINE
ST. PHILIP
1000 URSULINES
1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS
1200 BARRACKS
1300
classifieds
ESPLANADE
1800 19 FR M A R IG N Y
23 ES TR R A H C
24
00
FR 2 A 500 N K L L 26 00 IN YA O R E LO IN U PH IS U A A D
00
EL YS IA N
22
00
00
EN 2 0 0 0 C 2 1 HM E 00 N
Slidell, LA [985] OLDE SLIDELL ANTIQUE DISTRICT, First & Erlanger Streets, antique malls, gift shops, doll shop & restaurants, 643.4790, SlidellAntiques.COM
autos Metairie, LA [504] WALKER ACURA, 8951 Veterans Blvd., 464.4004, WalkerAcura.COM
bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWNE PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Baton Rouge, LA [225] CAJUN COVE, 4550 Concord Ave., 246.8317 GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, GeorgesPlaceBR.COM
cable shows New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 99
casinos New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS
chiropractic
FI EL D S RT PA M A R
New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is2010]
circuit/events
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
antiques
JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St., 373.5431 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, TubbysBar.COM Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921
HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Road, 242.9491, splashbr.com Lafayette, LA [337] BACK SIDE, 209 Jefferson St., 269.0430 JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson, 264.8000 TONIC, 2013 Pinhook Rd., 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 BOURBON PUB/PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107, BourbonPub.COM 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
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 Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 26-30, 2011, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 31-Sept. 5, 2011, 40th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM
computers Baton Rouge, LA [225] JDiT NETWORKING SOLUTIONS, Jerry Durden, 229.6108, JDiT.US
counseling New Orleans, LA [504] AARON EDWARDS, M.Ed., LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor, 3350 Ridgelake Dr., Suite 200, Metairie, LA 70002, 814.0648, aaronedwardsllc@yahoo.com DAVID WAGNER, M.Ed., Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000
florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAMES, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726
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
hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur, 565.5555, salondmalta.com
insurance New Orleans, LA [504] ALLSTATE: Buckwalter Insurance Group LLC, 2002 20th St., Kenner, 504.469.4800;101 Schexnayder Ln., Destrehan, 985.764.3833
lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, E-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queensize beds, private entrances; located only six blocks from Bourbon Street and walking distance to most New Orleans attractions. Several favorite bars are within one block. 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, E-mail 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 half-open 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:
28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
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. 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
marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com
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 & thai massage/bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is26/10]
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
models/escort New Orleans, LA [504] BODY RUBS & ESCORT: Mikey 504.756.9443, Charlie 504.430.7413, 4 hands availalable, 24/7, in/out/hotels, pics at www.men4rentnow.com. Search by ID# 190508 [is2010]
museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558
OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org 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, 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 GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 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 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 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, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 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., 592.4666
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,
Gay East erParade.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29
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 METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 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, w w w . b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , 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 FRIDAY NIGHT 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, Email: 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 701566836; 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 70117-4035, 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, PO Box 15889, 70115-5889 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, 828A 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, 828-A 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 NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION: NOLA PRIDE, 2114 Decatur St., 945.1103, NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS 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 Organiza-
tions & 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 YWCA AIDS 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 DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455 FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845 FRENCH QUARTER VET, 922 Royal St., Office 322.7030, Cell 250.1175, DrScott@TheFrenchQuarterVet.COM
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
real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] FRENCH QUARTER REALTY, Agents: Gary R. Williams 251.2047, Sandy Preston 319.7500; Office 949.5400 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 WWW.GAYREALESTATE.COM Free Instant Access to New Orleans and the Nations Top Gay & Lesbian Realtors. On-line: www.GayRealEstate.com or Toll Free 1.888.420.MOVE (6683)
restaurants 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 Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon, 504.52.CANDY Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Cooyon's Cajun Cooking, New Orleans French Market, 1100 N. Peters St., 337.339.1131, CooyonsCajunCooking.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts, CreoleCuisine.COM The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley, 301.3347, GreenGoddessNOLA.COM Krystal, 116 Bourbon @ Canal, 523.4030 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Little Vic's Gelateria, 1912 Magazine St., 309.8236 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
Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St., 872.0360
retail/shopping Metairie, LA [504] SUZETTE'S, 3209 Edenborn Ave., 888.7722, Suzettes.COM 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 [French Quarter], 525.4372; 4901 Canal St. [Mid City], 488.4889, 712 Adams St. [Uptown], 861.4644, HerbImport.COM LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423, laminasterling@gmail.com PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 RAZZLE DAZZLE, the newest sensation in a very old place, 524 Royal St. 568.0001, RazzleDazzle.COM Slidell, LA [985] THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 1331 Englewood Dr., 643.8007, HerbImport.COM
spas New Orleans, LA [504] SPA ATLANTIS, 740 Gravier Street, 566.8088, SpaAlantis.NET CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539]
tours New Orleans, LA [504] MORTUARY HAUNTED HOUSE, ghost haunting/tours, private parties, haunted attraction, 4800 Canal St., TheMortuary.NET STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ, Toulouse Street Dock, 568.1401, SteamboatNatchez.COM
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] LE PETIT THEATRE DU VIEUX CARRE, 616 St. Peter, 522.2081 MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 SOUTHERN REP THEATRE, Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 3rd Floor, 522.6545, SouthernRep.COM
websites CRESCENT CITY, CrescentCity.COM GAY AMERICA, GayAmerica.COM GAY BARS, GayBars.COM GAY PENSACOLA, GayPensacola.COM OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PRIDE NEW ORLEANS, NOLAPride.ORG
Only 2 Issues til
Halloween
Ambush 504.522.8049
cont act
marsha@ripandmarsha.com
30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
Gay East erParade.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31
Chad Evans aka Mr. Lake Charles Pride performing
acadiana
papar azzi
Go head Bianca Del Rio @ Crystal’s representing Lake Charles Pride Fest
DJ Kyle D enjoying Tonic
Lake Charles Pride performance Trey & Rick playing the first pool game @ Tonic
Joey, Darren & Tayler @ Jules
Justin & a “mysterious friend”
Enjoying the Heaven vs Hell Party @ Jules Lake Charles Pride on skates Kira shaking it @ the first talent show @ Tonic Tayler attempting his pose
Friends always seem to gather @ Jules
What’s going on at this club?
Macky working it @ Tonic
Joey posing for his birthday party @ Jules
Mitch displaying Betty @ Tonic
Alright for Matty working Kira’s Talent Show @ Tonic
Kasi, Bianca Del Rio & Joey @ Crystal’s
Belinda, Bianca Del Rio & Brodie @ Crystal’s
32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
Friends, Talent, Birthdays, Lake Charles Pride Fest ~ Lafayette, Lake Charles, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins
Tayler, Justin, Brodie & Richard @ Jules
Gay East erParade.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33
acadiana happens by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com
F
all is here and nothing thrills me more than anything than enjoying a nice glass of red wine while watching the brown leaves begin to cover the earth. Clocks are soon to fall back and that doesn’t mean that things are about to slow down. Brace yourself because it looks like things just might get crazy. You’re listening up with Joey Collins, girl!
Lake Charles Celebrates Pride
O
n September 11th the city of Lake Charles celebrated its 2 nd annual Pride Festival. Being a bit skeptical, a good friend of mine and I decided to take the hour venture and head West on I-10 for the weekend. We loaded the car with our over-packed suitcases, turned the radio up to Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga, and had the typical topical conversations about the who’s who in the community. Excitement grew as we approached Lake Charles and took the downtown exit. Once in the vicinity of the festivities we could already see how well received the event was by local residents. What I best describe as tailgating tents lined the outer area of the outdoor theater with local vendors and community organizations such as ACLU, Stonewall Democrats, HRC, etc. Refreshments were served under the hot sun and a sense of fellowship seemed to set the mood. The stage was filled with alternating acts such as comedians, bands, local talents, and even the fabulously offensive Bianca Del Rio. One of the most notable aspects of the festival was lack of security. You may think that was a bad thing but I felt very safe. I’ve been to many Pride Festivals in several parts of the country where security from local police was needed. Some may think of Lake Charles as a backwards country town but regardless of how true this reputation is or isn’t, the town seemed to lack offense towards such an event being held in the heart of its community. For this I must applaud Lake Charles. As the night grew on participants poured into the local community bar, Crystal’s. Pride participants were treated to many talents of local drag queens including past Miss Gay Louisiana title holders as well as Mr. and Miss Lake Charles Pride Festival. I was deeply moved when one of the performers were an active parent within the local gay community. Of course the night could not be complete without Bianca Del Rio entertaining the crowd with her witty humor. As last call was announced my friends and I drove a few blocks down to the Howard Johnson where a good friend of mine was staying the night. Over cigarettes, crown and diet, vodka, and conversation we decided to continue the night and head to the after-hours bar, Cowboys. Again I was a bit skeptical. Such a name on the bar simply suggests you’re in a
close-minded backwards atmosphere. What shall come of a gaggle of gays walking into the bar? Absolutely nothing! I felt as comfortable as a queer at Banana Republic. We partied for another two hours before retiring for the night. As we drove back to the hotel we sang along to Lady Gaga at the top of our lungs while I couldn’t resist to seize the moment and videoed it onto my iPhone. I knew it would make for great conversation the following morning. At that moment I knew that I had created another moment in time where I was grateful of my friends and surroundings. As the weekend came to a close we headed back east on I-10 and prepared ourselves for our next event, the VMA’s. We knew we had to make it back in time because we definitely did not want to miss this. With Lake Charles fresh in our minds we took note of the exciting weekend we had just experienced. It left us yearning for next year. For those of you in the Acadiana area who have not yet ventured over to Lake Charles and experienced Crystal’s then I can only ask, “What are you waiting for?” Monday is Monday Nite Rumour Night with $3 well specials and $2.50 domestic beers all night long. Tuesday is Service Industry Night with $1 off all drinks with a bar card till midnight, $3 well specials and $2.50 domestic beer along with shot specials. Wednesday nights host Drag Bingo with Keisha and Tonya along with more drink specials and prizes for bingo winners. To help bring in the weekend, Thursday nights feature Kick Ass Karaoke with DJ Chad Evans and Kit Sanders. Owner John Gilland and staff do their very best to make sure you are entertained on a nightly basis.
Tonic Opens
S
o by now I can only assume that most of you have experienced Tonic. Owner John Gilland and manager Mitch Tate along with the very hard working staff are doing their very best to provide comfort and an entertaining atmosphere for bar patrons. I recently attended the very first event hosted by this particular venue, Kira’s Tuesday Talent Show. The new venue proved worthy of such a prized event. The crowd seemed to triple in numbers since the first night open and participants were overwhelmed by the talent that was represented. According to Tate, upcoming events are already in store and there is more to come. Saint Cecilia revives itself on Friday, October 1st. Don’t forget about Kira’s Tuesday Talent Show which is held respectively on every Tuesday night. Sunday nights still usher in Drag Bingo at 6:30pm followed by the usual Sunday night drag show which begins at 10pm. I encourage everyone to come out and experience Tonic on his or her own. Check out the daily drink specials. Search for the fan page on Facebook. What’s
most encouraging is that for many of you the new location is right on your path home from work. Stop by and check out their happy hour and make sure that you say hello to Mitch.
Bar Spill
O
n Saturday, September 18th yours truly hosted Joey Collins’ 2nd Annual Birthday Bash and this year’s theme was Angels vs Devils and Jules Downtown was transformed. Attendees were greeted at the door by the pearly gates while some even questioned themselves as to why they found themselves in heaven. As clouds literally hung above their heads, bar-top dancers entertained while bartenders set the mood by sporting either angelic wings or devilish horns. The back patio was hot as hell as red lights accented the walls and fog constantly moved in only to recreate a feeling of being in Hades. Last year’s theme, Hollywood, had definitely been topped, pardon the pun. Yours truly had on his angel wings because of course there is no doubt how angelic I am. The bar was filled with participants who were too eager to get their Jules on! Many thanks go out to bar owner Darren Parker and his staff for the help and support in planning the event. Of course much thanks goes to Samuel Richard and Tayler Savoy for incorporating their visions of heaven and hell. Much thanks to Rick Rowan, Andre Gillory, Tayler Savoy, Ryan Rogers, Trey Schmaltz, and Matthew Reon for their help in preparations for the event. Don’t forget that fall only means there is more to come for Jules Downtown. Beginning on Friday, October 8th, ConnieG will be performing every other Friday following Downtown Alive. This event will rotate respectively with Valerie Sugarbaker and her Friday Night Drag Show. As always Shawn hosts karaoke every Thursday night. Follow Jules on Facebook to check out the latest events and their daily drinks specials.
Downtown Lafayette Comes Alive
W
ell it seems as though we won! We recently almost lost our right to “to go cups” or open containers in the downtown area.
Thanks to a 5 to 4 vote the Lafayette City Council voted against the proposed city ordinance and that only means one thing, it’s still okay to walk around with your martini! This is the perfect opportunity to suggest experiencing Downtown Alive. Downtown Alive happens every Friday evening beginning at 6pm. The events alternate from Parc International to Parc Sans Souci. One can always check out www.downtownlafayette.org for the most up to date information. Such an event features cultural feelings from a plethora of musical genres. The best part about the event is that it is free and open to the public. On September 24th the band Cowboy Mouth will be performing. The Latin group, Vivaz, will be performing on October 1st. October 8th will usher in even more festivities as this will feature the beginning of Festival Acadiens. This means that Bach Lunch will be returning in Parc San Souci at 11:30 followed by performances by Lost Bayou Ramblers (Cajun) and Cedric Watson and Friends (Zydeco) in Parc International respectively at 5:30pm and 7:30pm. As always, do not forget that the second Saturday of each month features Artwalk in the downtown area. Local galleries and artists are given the opportunity to showcase their talents. This is always a real cultural treat.
Closing Out
I
’m personally looking forward to the fall season. Watching nature slowly die and go into hibernation is such a miracle because come spring you can watch it become reborn. To me this always mocks life. Through life’s journeys we often find ourselves in a rut, almost as though we’re slowly dying and going into hibernation. Some of us may find ourselves at our wits end, almost painted into a corner either by our own decisions or by outside forces in which we have no control of. The best part of this is to remember that we, too, can revitalize ourselves and become reborn. We have the opportunity to move from mistakes and/or situations and become better people. Never forget this. As always, odds are that you heard it here first. You’re listening up with Joey Collins, keep the party going!
hot tails of red stick by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com
Energetic Eric
I
first met Eric briefly when he was working at Splash, but I really didn’t get to know him until recently when I ran into him at Cajun Cove. I still don’t know him really that well, but I can tell you that he is one of those outstanding young guys that you have to love. He has a great personality, and he worries about getting that hair just perfectly styled, but this is the way a model thinks. You have to be the best because you are out there competing. I found him to be an interesting guy to talk with, and he does have that captivat-
ing smile that kind of gets your juices flowing. His smiles are definitely charming and inviting, and the eyes give out a type of inner beauty that few people possess. I have to say that he certainly is energetic. I caught on to the fact that he does work in New Orleans too, so this means that he knows how to get out and get into the competitive world of modeling, dancing, bartending, and even writing. He is just one sharp cookie. I think I would like to learn more about him, and I’m sure in my leisure time I will
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hot tails of red stick ...from 34 cross paths with him again. There are just some guys and gals you meet that seem to grow on you immediately. His attraction is one that catches your attention and hold on to you. I like that in a guy. That beautiful smile just invites you to be attentive to him in whatever he is doing. I look forward to these future meetings. I know they are there. It’s inevitable.
Superb Seth
S
eth is another guy who really can make you feel all warm inside. He is definitely a handsome young man, and I had seen him around too but never got the chance to really meet him and talk to him. I found him to be outrageously sexy and definitely someone who knows what he wants and how to get it. He was in the military, and you can see this phase of his life in his talk, his walk, and his confidence. I suppose confidence is the most evident factor to be seen in Seth. He also has that wonderful smile and outstanding personality that really causes you to sit up and take notice. I watched him recently at Cajun Cove, and I saw how he stood out in the crowd. It takes a special person to do this, and he manages to do this in such a quiet and unassuming manner. While others like to boast and make noise, Seth seems to blend in and stand out without really going out of his way to do so. That is something that few people can do. I can assure you that this youngster is a gorgeous human being from head to toe
and ALL points in between. Goodness! I really mean that. He definitely could be a model. He has the walk, he has the talk, and he has the qualifications both physically and mentally to take on the world. Like Eric, I hope to see more of him in the future. He is really an outstanding youngster – handsome, sexy, intelligent, and with a wonderful personality.
his charm is what makes him stand out among other around him. You can tell by looking at him that he enjoys life and loves being around people. All I can say is that he is one guy who stands tall no matter what might be going on around him. That’s a unique quality not found in many individuals. He is the master of his own destiny, and I wish him the very best.
Happy Henry
Always Becky
utstanding is a term that can definitely be applied to Henry. When I ran into him last week, he had a little bit of red all over the arms and face, and I wondered (but didn’t ask) if that covered his entire body. He had been swimming, and I can just drool away over the wonder of this beautiful body in all its glory in its natural setting. I’ll have to ask him the next time I see him. The first time I met Henry, I knew I would really like him. I think others can say the same. He has that personality and shy little smile that lets you know he is aware of his fine qualities, but he does this in such a charming way. That is the best way I can describe him – a complete charmer. I certainly enjoy being around him, and I dare say that most others around him see this same endearing quality. Henry has always greeted me and made me feel so welcome to be with him. He can really win you over with those excellent hugs, and you realize that you are in the presence of a very special person. He just seems to be full of innocence, like a beautiful child in a man’s body, and he comes across as a fine example of a decent and precious human being. I think
t is nice to see Becky out and about again. I guess we just didn’t run in the same circles, but since she has started working at Cajun Cove, I’ve had the chance to get re-acquainted with her. She is a very caring individual, and she can make you feel so comfortable in her surroundings. We have lots of friends in common, but what impresses me about Becky is the way she can get with the program and show the guys that it takes work to accomplish what she has accomplished in her lifetime. I see strength of character here that needs to be copied by others. She goes about her work quietly, and she too is one of those who can stand out above others by doing nothing but by just being herself. Some of those individuals who are loud and boisterous can turn you off whereas Becky can stand back and reap personal laurels of dignity by just being that person with an inner beauty and quiet disposition. Sometimes it is difficult to know how to act around some people, but with Becky, there is an immediate comfort zone, and she welcomes you and encourages you to be a part of her life. That makes her a very
O
I
special woman, and it is a quality to be admired and used as a pattern for change in others. I rather like her, always have.
Signing Off
T
his is my final column in the Hot Tails series. With all the years it has appeared in Ambush, I have tried to promote all the bars equally, and I have especially paid extra attention to all the employees of the bars. After all, it is the bartender that can make going to each place a joy, and over the years, I have noticed so many with huge followings. I have tried to close things out by telling you about some more of the wonderful people I’ve run into during this past two-week period. I think this has been the joy for me in writing this column all these years – nearly thirty, as I recall. Most of these can still be found in the Ambush files which are online. When I was first approached by Rip and Marsha, they were making trips to Baton Rouge just to gather data to put in a column. I have been a writer for most of my entire life with newspaper columns and freelance markets all over the country. They asked if I would cover this area, and I agreed. I have to say that it really has been a pleasure, but most of all, it gave me the chance to meet a lot of wonderful people and forge new friendships that have lasted all these years – and will continue into the future. I can honestly say that this would have never been possible without this connection to Ambush. Like many of you, I found going to bars
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hot tails of red stick ...from 35
trodding the boards ...from 24 well as stock market manipulation, is 65 years old. For Cripple Creek’s production of The Madwoman of Chaillot removed layers of varnish which had accrued to this chestnut, to present it as the vibrant, lifeaffirming work that it is. First-time director Emilie Whelan approached Jean Giraudoux’s script with an expressionistic palette that liberated this serious comedy from its potential for tweeness. In turn, the large Cripple Creek cast brought invigorating passion and fierce intelligence to this tale about a group of free spirits who, led by the wily Madwoman of the title, stand up to the threats of Big Business. That these threats included drilling for oil beneath the streets of Paris, made it seem as though Giraudoux had written Madwoman in June rather than 1942. Guided by Whelan, Samantha Beaulieu (so different from her quiet wife in Raisin in the Sun), Andrew Vaught (hissing like an evil snake), Donald Lewis, and Alden Eagle, started the play off with ferociously stylized performances. Outfitted by costume designer Katie Gelfand in white shirts and black suits & ties, as opposed to the colorful wardrobe of the rest of the cast, they embodied Capitalism’s avarice and corrupting sense of power. These were four of the scariest people I’ve seen on stage in a long time. Fortunately, Jennifer Pagan’s Countess Aurelia, the eponymous heroine, soon arrived. Underneath her ostrich and peacock feathered headpiece (“hat” would not do it justice), Pagan avoided making Aurelia
merely a daft busybody; instead, with regal bearing and a luminous glow, she revealed Aurelia to be a woman determined to make things right, a steel magnolia a la français. Adding to the play’s transcendent humanism were Andrea Carlin and Andrew Farrier as a pair of tentative young lovers, and Ross Britz, lyrically masculine as the Ragpicker, the opposite of his Little Murders flighty gay boi. Triple cast in a variety of smaller roles, Shannon Flaherty, Jessica Lozano, Liam Krauss and Whelan (filling in for an injured Leah Richards), made each of their characters distinct and memorable. Whelan staged the first act, set in a cafe, among the theater’s tables with precise choreography. For the second act, Eli Grove created a behind-the-proscenium boudoir for Aurelia with just the right touch of faded elegance. As usual, Selena Poznak’s lighting did much with little, enhancing the play’s charms rather than overwhelming them. Likewise, Musical Director Ratty Scurvics’ original score for piano, hand organ and cello added invigorating period authenticity. If Madwoman addresses some of the urgent issues that faced WWII Paris, it also deals with such eternal ones as mortality, love, chances missed and connections made. Whelan perfectly balanced all of these themes as well as staging a tea party as mad as Alice’s; only a wacky trial that followed dragged a little, more the fault of Giraudoux than Cripple Creek. Nevertheless, this was thrilling theater, generating an excitement that comes from watching a theater troupe mining a text for all its worth and allowing it to bloom to its fullest.
the best way of meeting people, and later, I found working at Hibiscus Bookstore to be another great way to meet and make new friends. As you may recall, Armistead Maupin wrote a series of books called Tales of the City. Well, Hot Tails of Red Stick became a local version, but instead of being set in an apartment house, the bars of this city were the locales for almost everything written up. Of course, there were the private parties, all the bal masques, and even trips to New Orleans, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Shreveport, and Alexandria saw mention of the bars and friends made in these locations. I even found that on vacations, I spent part of my time interviewing people in the bars of Key West, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Tampa, San Diego, Ft. Lauderdale, Salt Lake City, Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, Boston, and Provincetown. I always planned my vacations around my Ambush deadlines, and this worked out beautifully since I prefer 4 to 5 day trips. I guess that means I’m a homebody type, but the only time I wanted to stay longer were the ones to the islands of the Caribbean or to Costa Rica, one of my favorite places. If you were to go back now and read the back issues of my columns, you would find a pattern of old and new material. There are certain “characters” I have followed within the pages of these tales. Of course, there are too many for a single book, but there is a continuity to be found within all these “hot tails” or tales that you have been a part of. I have some great friends and some good acquaintances, but the best part about all this is the beautiful memories I have to last me the rest of my life. Check it out, and you will see all those great nights at Argon, Time Zone, Mirror Lounge, Dixie Inn, and so many others that are a part of the history of the community that we live in. From the time I first met George, Richard Dykes, Guy, Miss Hatch, Leonard, Kyle, James, Cory, Jeff, and those whose names are still there in those back files, I knew that this was what I needed to tell the
reasons to be pretty
N
eil LaBute’s reasons to be pretty begins with perhaps the most explosive, expletivefilled opening scene of the past 100 years. And why? Because a guy called his girlfriend’s face “regular.” Welcome to LaBute-land. Set in a world of dead-end warehouse jobs, reasons proceeds to detail the fallout from this mega-argument and the shifting allegiances in a pair of friendships, Greg (Chris Marroy) & Steph (Liz Mills), the former couple, and the married Kent (Burton Tedesco) & Carly (Rachel Robinson). LaBute writes natural-sounding dialog with his customary flair and how refreshing to see adults negotiating their feelings and trying to make sense of them. But while an interesting play that certainly holds an audience’s attention, reasons’s characters come off, to some extent, as a collection of attributes subject to authorial whim rather than fully-formed humans. For example, we see Greg reading a series of classic American novels; this may prepare us for his contemplating a return to college but it never struck me as rising organically
world about, and Rip and Marsha made it possible. Even those Wednesday night shows at Oz in New Orleans offered me a chance to branch out and include some of the porn greats. Some of these guys were really nice, like Jeff Stryker, and others were a little too much for my way of thinking, but I covered them anyway. I found that there is a positive way to tell a story no matter whom the person might be or any of the circumstances involved in the interview or visit to a bar or other gathering. I just did my stories and moved on. I never, however, moved on from some of these meetings without new friends. They are now my dearest and most trusted friends that you could possibly have on the face of this earth. I remember vividly the first day I met Little John. It just clicked. I will always love him for his inner beauty, his zest for life, and celebrate his future with a wonderful partner, Phil. The same is true of my loving and wonderful BC Boy and Colla, and Sam, Nick, Gerry, Luther, Michael, Joey, Mark, John, Kevin, D.B., Ernie, Jason, Scoti, Little Corey, Ty, Stephen, Dwayne, Mina, Claudette, Josie, Debbie, Patrick, George, Danny, Cass, Truman, Larry, Robert, Brandon, Jacques, Tommy, David, Derek, Edward, Cy, Johnny, Walter, Toni, Maribeth, Jamie, Red, Mickey, Sharie, Curtis, Minette, and so many others. And, of course, this would have to include Rip and Marsha. I just trust that what I have written has been as rewarding for you to read as it has been for me to write. It certainly includes those who have passed on because they were my friends, and I loved them dearly – David, Charlie, Greg, Pete, Chuck, Lance, Leonard, S.J., Mr. Bill, Steve, and so many more. Saying goodbye is never easy, but there comes a time when one has to move on. I’ll always remember all the joys and sorrows, and I am very grateful for having the opportunity to be with you over these past years. I don’t know how else to say it except to use what is known as the ending of an article or story in newspapers. It is appropriate that I use it now as I wish you all the very best that life has to offer you. I’m sure we will meet again, but for now, I bid you a very fond farewell. And thanks for the memories. from his character. Director Chelle Ambrose perfectly captured the play’s rhythms and insured that her cast never gave in to overdoing LaBute’s volatile dialog. Marroy and Mills worked beautifully together, effortlessly creating a couple whose four years together turns out to have been merely marking time. Marroy’s decent, “regular Joe” could be the young guy you see in a neighborhood bar in almost any urban neighborhood in America, probably standing in the shadows of the more alpha males. Mills was a scalding, wounded sparkplug, so well cast not because she’s “regular”—she’s not—but for the way she somehow transformed herself into a woman whose self-consciousness about her appearance is the Achilles heel of her ego. If Mills’ Steph started off as a dustball of ugly emotions, she wound up glowing with a strengthened inner confidence. As a security guard who suspects her husband is cheating on her, Robinson’s sharp edges softened as she discovered
36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
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rpa ed stick par azzi
Joy @ Hound Dogs
Dynamic, Sexy, Cheerful ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict
Dynamic Seth @ Cajun Cove Beautiful Eric @ Cajun Cove
Jeremy @ George’s
Acadiana Tommy in Rome
Becky @ Cajun Cove
Sexy, lovable, gorgeous Henry Chance with a message
Sexy, handsome Joey @ Cajun Cove
Cody, Kevin & Luther
Luther & Kevin
Angela welcomes you to Cajun Cove
Ty & always cheerful Jared
Having fun @ George’s
Philip gets a big squeeze
Luther & Michael
Richard with Nicole Foxx
The DIVAS
Wonderful Toby with Kevin
Richard & Jeremy
Gay East erParade.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37
the pink pastor
The Kingdom & Kajun’s Pub
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omebody once asked me what they thought would be a characteristic of a world where God’s view of humanity prevailed. The wording they used was much more churchy, they said ‘The Kingdom’, but in reality, the kingdom as described in the Bible is a utopia, where humanity is in concord with the mind of God. This is not some vulgar fantasy that looks like Liberace’s boudoir, with lots of grinning ‘Christians’ gloating over the poor heathens who fell by the wayside. Being in concord with the mind of God is surely more about cleaving to the realities that God wove into creation, and seeing them as having the value that God gave them. Realities like our richness and diversity, our inherent natures and the surprising capacity for growth and compassion that humanity shows when it chooses advance over retreat, growth over decay, learning over ignorance, breadth over narrowness and risk over security. I half jokingly told them that it may look a bit like Kajun's on a Sunday night! Every Sunday we have a fundraiser lightheartedly called ‘cocktails for Jesus’ at Kajun's on St Claude (run by the incredible Joann and Lisa). We have Karaoke, entry is free, but 10% of the evening’s takings are donated to the church. We usually kick off between 7 and 9, and often people are still there in the wee small hours! I have often heard they fell out of The Waffle House at three in the morning after leaving Kajun’s at 1:30am! The reason Kajun’s was a natural choice was its extravagant, inclusive diversity. On any given night you can see trans women, gay men, elderly white straight guys and young African American men, young arty types from the Bywater and Hispanic day laborers and well-to-do folk from the Marigny and beyond. There are men, women and those in transition, there are drinkers, teetotalers and straight African American women, there are policemen and women and people with amazing life stories. In short, there are a full range of humanity, talking, drinking, singing, playing games, and rubbing shoulders, with no ‘special interest’ groups and no homogeneity. In short Kajun’s looks like every church should look in mixed communities and so few do – it looks like God sees us; together and in friendship, not fragmented and frightened. I said a lot of this in jest, but there is a
Only 2 Issues til
Halloween Ambush 504.522.8049
cont act
marsha@ripandmarsha.com
hard edge of truthfulness in this fantasy. There is a nasty side to America’s love of fragmentation – its tendency to cling together in groups that think and look alike, and frankly the gay community tends to be among the worst culprits. That such segregation should still be normal in 2010, ESPECIALLY in churches is really obscene, and the fact that some groups, bars, churches and other organization show real cultural diversity shows the lie that this is just the way things are and can never be changed. Kajun’s points to a different vision for our future. In its own small way it IS utopian. It says that the possibilities outweigh the problems, and people can play together and even get drunk together without having to sacrifice their identity, culture or nature and avoid smashing each others heads in! When asked, many people say they want diversity, but too many peoples idea of diversity is people that LOOK young, or black, or Hispanic, but sound and think just as if they were middle aged white folk (or any variation of vise versa!) I am frequently challenged as to why I keep banging on about this subject, and it is because without a truthful tackling of THIS issue, then Christianity remains a fond thing vainly invented. The words and teaching of Christ have no objective reality when there is no common belief (real practical belief, not silly, empty words) in the equality of humanity (not just created equal but remaining equal) or risky attempts to love and engage with difference and diversity. God’s vision to St Peter paraphrased as ‘darest thou to call unclean something The LORD your God has made?’ is a call to hold dear what God holds dear, not to hold it at arms length. Comfort and convenience pave the road to hell, challenge and discovery point to The Kingdom. Rev. Clinton Crawshaw is the Pastor of The Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church in New Orleans. They meet every Sunday at 1pm (mass said in the chapel) and 5pm (Praise and Worship service in the main sanctuary) at 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. NOLA 70118 – ring or email for derevcrawshaw@yahoo.com, tails: 504.214.4340, www.bigeasymcc.com.
trodding the boards ...from 36 that there is more to Greg than she had originally thought. Robinson conveyed complex emotions not so much by “acting” but by letting them drift over her probing visage. Unfortunately, Tedesco, an actor new to me, was miscast; he clearly understood Kent’s boorishness but he was unable to translate it into a thoroughly natural demeanor and instead gave a too obvious performance. I may have wished for more from reasons to be pretty. Actor's Theatre of New Orleans’ production of it may not have been perfect (though quite close). But they still offered, collectively, a satisfying exploration of prickly emotional terrain and a most worthy evening of theater.
38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
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papar azzi
Princesse Stephaney does her 50th b-day show @ Starlight By The Park
King Cake Queen Opal Masters headlines Opal’s Follies @ JohnPaul’s
MC Tiffany Alexander opens Profiles show @ the Parade
Miss Gay Vieux Carre’ America Tami Tarmac in Profiles show @ the Parade
Saints fans pop in for Amanda Rose Andrews fundraiser @ Oz
Rhonda Roget stars in Opal’s Follies
Zsa Zsa d’LaHor in Princesse Stephaney’s b-day show @ Starlight
The entire cast at the Miss Gay New Orleans America Amanda Rose Andrews fundraiser at Oz
Miss Gay New Orleans America Amanda Rose Andrews in her fundraiser @ Oz
The cast of Hairspray @ opening night fundraiser for Armeinius, Petronius & Satyricon
Transgender of the Year Jasmine SX stars in Profiles show Queen Petronius Natasha Sinclair guest stars in Opal’s Follies
Sean Patterson as Edna Turnblatt & sexy Sal Mannino as Linc in Hairspray
Satyricon’s own Stephen Rizzo was one of the stars in Hairspray
Amon-Ra’s Miss America Deja Deja Vu in Opal’s Follies
Opal’s Follies guest star Georgeanna Belle
Miss Gay Lafayette America Zhane Kennedy in Profiles show
Randi & Buttercup behind the bar @ the Parade for Profiles show
40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
Shows, Fundraisers, Plays, Shows ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen
Monique Micheals does outstanding Julia Sugarbaker imitation in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Justin & Alan join the Amanda Rose Andrews fundraiser @ Oz
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42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM
mobile
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Cute, Beautiful, Fun ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John
Bob & B-Bob’s bartender Joe
Sam, Pooh, Robb, Helen & Carl @ B-Bob’s
Bob with Australian Recording Artist Jacinta
Andreu & special guest Iya Elizarraras @ B-Bob’s College Night
B-Bob’s DJ Chromatic, bartender Joey & doorman Scotty Venus with another boy toy
B-Bob’s bar baron Jerry with Jason, Robert, Jaymie & Brenda
Andy & Skylar @ B-Bob’s
Corey, Jack & Scotty Maury & Jayme in B-Bob’s Thursday College Night
Gay activist David Rice (c) with long-time friends Cari & Miss Cie Darwin Singleton with Regine Phillips @ B-Bob’s
Andrew, Phillip & Brooke
Cute boy living it up @ B-Bob’s
Chris & Bob @ B-Bob’s The beautiful Gulf Coast Diva Toni Dee performing @ B-Bob’s
Pensacola Florida’s beautiful Regine Phillips performs @ B-Bob’s
“Boys just wanta have fun at BBob’s!” says Keith
Shawn & Aaron with company @ B-Bob’s
B-Bob’s Show Director Miss Cie
Gay East erParade.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 43
44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Sept . 28-Oc t . 11, 2010 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM