Ambush magazine volume 29 issue 01 by Ambush Publishing

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

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

Ambush Celebrates 29th Anniversary

his first issue of 2011 celebrates the 29th anniversary of Ambush Magazine. The publication was first launched from Baton Rouge in 1982 beginning as an 8x10 magazine on card stock, eventually advancing to glossy stock, which proved to be to expensive to survive. Moving to New Orleans in 1985, Ambush went to newsprint which proved to be a successful format. And that format has allowed the publication to expand over the past 26 years in the city and throughout the Gulf South. The staff would like to thank the thousands of readers across the Gulf South, and the numerous advertisers who make this publication possible. Ambush has been fortunate to find it's own niche leading to the survival of the Gulf South and Louisiana's only GLBT mag still in print. And since 1996, with the explosion of the Internet, Ambush reaches multitudes more around the globe with the mirror image of the printed version appearing online at AmbushMag.COM. Here's to a happy and prosperous New Year to all!

Lords of Leather "Royal Tea" Jan. 9

oin the Lords of Leather on January 9th to honor the current Gay Mardi Gras krewe royalty of Amon-Ra, Armeinius, The Lords of Leather, Mwindo, Petronius, Queenateenas and Satyricon as they come to the end of their respective reigns. The “Royal Tea” celebration begins at 2pm upstairs at JohnPaul’s, 940 Elysian Fields, New Orleans. The $5 general admission donation includes delectable light deserts and a special beverage. A silent auction and the ever popular Mardi Gras Wreath and Decoration live auction will also be held during the festivities. For more information, visit lordsofleather.com.

Mardi Gras Classic XXVIII set for Jan. 15 & 16

he 28th annual Mardi Gras Classic: Slick Sliding Away will be hosted by Volleyball New Orleans on Saturday and Sunday January 15 and 16. This year the classic will host 80 teams in 4 divisions: AA Division (capped at 6 teams); A Division (capped at 14 teams); BB Division (capped at 36 teams); & B Division (capped at 24 teams). Parties and events will transpire over the entire weekend beginning on Friday, January 14 and ending on Sunday January 16. For additional information and schedules, visit VolleyballNewOrleans.COM.

Hidden Treasures of the Louisiana State Museum: Carnival Edition Jan. 19

or all you hardcore Carnival fanatics, join the Louisiana State Museum for one night only as they open the impressive Carnival Collection for an exclusive behind-the-scenes viewing of historic costumes and other rarely seen artifacts. Wayne Phillips, Curator of Costumes and Textiles for the Louisiana State Museum, will guide you through an in-depth firsthand look at

Tunic worn by Rex, King of Carnival, Frederick W. Evans, 1923

Costume design by Carter Church for a Maid in the Krewe of Sparta, 1995 ball, title “The Caribbean”

inside celebrazzi chop chop under the gaydar snap paparazzi/new orleans 8th ambie awards spotlight/sir speedy acadiana happens/lafayette snap paparazzi/nola, metairie

Pre-Super Bowl Issue out Jan. 18 DEADLINE: Tues., Jan. 11th 6 10 12 16 17 22 22 24

king cake queen coronation acadiana paparazzi/lafayette classifieds paparazzi/mobile c'est bon travel paparazzi ambush paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/new orleans

25 26 28 32 34 35 36 38

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com Carnivals of years past through a tour of the storage rooms of the Museum, usually off limits to the general public. During the event, meet Dr. Stephen W. Hales, Archivist for the Rex Organization and author of Rex: An Illustrated History of the School of Design and purchase a signed copy of this beautiful new book that draws heavily from the Louisiana State Museum’s vast Carnival Collection. Hidden Treasures of the Louisiana State Museum: Carnival Edition takes place Wednesday, January 19. Tours are at 6pm and 7pm at the Louisiana State Museum’s Collection Storage Facility, located at 1000 Chartres Street in the French Quarter. Cost is $15 per person, or $10 per person for Friends of the Cabildo members. Reservations are required, and space is extremely limited. Please contact the Friends of the Cabildo at 504.523.3939 or by email at Rachel@friendsofthecabildo.org to reserve your space today. Future behind-the-scenes tours are being planned focusing on the Museum’s visual arts, decorative arts, science and technology, Louisiana music, and maps and manuscripts collections.

Louisiana Native & Metropolitan Opera Darling, Lisette Oropesa, Returns to NOLA Jan. 28 & 30

ouisiana Native, Lisette Oropesa returns to New Orleans on January 28 and 30 to sing the role of Leïla in Bizet’s The Pearl Fishers (Les Pêcheurs de Perles). Ms. Oropesa is a graduate of the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program at the Metropolitan Opera and she recently opened the Met’s 2010-11 season as Woglinde, in the much anticipated new production of Das Rheingold. Joining her on the New Orleans Opera stage are Liam Bonner as Zurga and William Burden as Nadir with Kenneth Webber as Nourabad. The opera season closes this year with Grand Italian Opera on April 1 and 3 with Verdi’s Il Trovatore. New Orleans Opera Association welcomes back to the stage for this production,

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Mark Rucker and Mary Elizabeth Williams, the stars from last season’s [continued on 8]

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 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands, Patrick Shannon AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Devin Black, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen, Jeff Palmquist-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, 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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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

ood Enterprises' GM Ken Grandpre, Tom Wood and Deril Greenhaw welcomed guests to the Wood Enterprises Employee Holiday Party in The Balcony Bar above Cafe Lafitte in Exile in New Orleans.

he official pre-coronation portrait of King Cake Queen XVIII of Gay Mardi Gras-Elect Tom "Rona" Conners was done by renowned photographer Larry Graham in New Orleans. Conners will lead the Krewe of Queenateenas festivities over The Imperial House of Japan Boards The Orient Express. Visit GayMardiGras.COM for details on Gay Carnival.

ew owner Sandy Sachs and GM Louis Sachs hosted the annual Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party as a toy drive for underprivileged children in New Orleans upstairs in the Parade Disco.

00 Club's Disco Christmas Party raised $2,000, split between Belle Reve and Project Lazarus, in New Orleans. (Photo: Belle Reve's Vicki Weeks & Steve Loria, 700 Club's Mike Cookmeyer, Project Lazarus' Angie & Kelp, 700 Club's Matt Giglio, & Belle Reve's Michele D'Aquin)

y Whitney, bar baron Johnny Chisholm and GM Tommy Elias welcomed guests to Oz's annual Christmas Party as a toy drive for underprivileged children.

ill Miller and Chuck Turner hosted annual Christmas parties for patrons of all three of their bars, 4 Seasons in Metairie, Billy's in Slidell and Double Play in New Orleans.

he King Cake Queen Royalty Club hosted a small holiday get-together to welcome King Cake Queen XVIII-Elect Tom "Rona" Conners at the home of Queenateenas' Co-Captains Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. Visit GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ for additional information. (Photo: KCQ XIV Princesse Stephaney, KCQ XV Marsha Naquin-Delain, KCQ XVIII-Elect Tom "Rona" Conners, KCQ XVI Tami Tarmac & KCQ XVII Opal Masters)

M Candise Holman joined club owners Colette and Mark Ambrose for the annual holiday party hosted by Le Roundup in New Orleans to show their appreciation for friends and patrons of the club.

onique Michaels joins giant stocking winner Jud along with Rikki Redd and Miss Tubby's Golden Lantern Mercedes Ellis Loreal at the Lantern in New Orleans.

6 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

ar baron Michael Elias welcomes King Cake Queen XVIIIElect Rona Conners to Corner Pocket's annual Holiday Extravaganza in New Orleans.

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the "official" dish ...from 4 Tosca (both garnered admiration from the critics and audiences alike.) Tickets are available online at neworleansopera.org or by calling the box office at 504.529.3000. Tickets start at $20 in the balcony with an even more tempting offer found through the mini-subscriptions which begin at $34. There is no late seating allowed at the opera and ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early. The opera company has a free lecture series that often features highlights performed by cast members. The ‘Nuts and Bolts’ series takes place inside the Mahalia Jackson Theater on M2 one hour prior to curtain.

President Obama Signs “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Repeal Act of 2010

ervicemembers United, the nation’s largest organization of gay and lesbian troops and veterans, released the following statement regarding the signing of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Repeal Act of 2010 by President Obama: “Today, an historic wrong was finally made right. Today, the long and painful struggle of one million LGBT veterans was finally vindicated. Today, sixty-six thousand gay, lesbian, and bisexual Americans currently serving in uniform will sleep easier knowing that the odious ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ law is a thing of the past,” said Alexander Nicholson, Executive Director of Servicemembers United and a former multi-lingual Army interrogator who was discharged under DADT. “While we now await certification and the transition regulations, we call upon the senior defense leadership to hasten the implementation of this policy change internally. The U.S. military will certainly be better off as a result.” Founded in 2005, Servicemembers United has been a critical player in the movement to repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law. Servicemembers United grew to become the grassroots and organizing arm of the repeal movement, organizing campaigns and events and doing extensive media around the country, especially in conservative areas, to put a human face on the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law. Servicemembers United opened a fulltime office in Washington, DC in early 2009 to give those actually impacted by the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law a seat at the political table and a role in the negotiations over the issue’s future. Servicemembers United also led the charge to compel the Senate Majority Leader to move the defense authorization bill, and later the stand-alone repeal bill, before the end of 2010. Servicemembers United’s cofounder, Jarrod Chlapowski, organized and led the grassroots efforts of the Human Rights Campaign during 2009

and 2010, using Servicemembers United’s members to lend legitimacy to the lobbying effort on this defense policy issue. Servicemembers United’s Executive Director also served as the sole named veteran plaintiff on the lawsuit by the Log Cabin Republicans that got the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” lawsuit declared unconstitutional. For more information about Servicemembers United and “Don’t Ask, Dont’ Tell,” please visit ServicemembersUnited.org. For the most comprehensive collection of polling data, discharge statistics, academic works, legislative and congressional material, and more, visit DADTArchive.org.

FEMA Encourages You to Resolve to be Ready

he Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is urging you to resolve to be ready in 2011 when it comes to emergency preparedness. 2010 was a record year for presidential disaster declarations; nearly 80 major disasters were declared. Seven of the disasters happened in FEMA Region 6 states: Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. That’s why FEMA is kicking off Resolve to be Ready in 2011, a nationwide effort to urge individuals, families, businesses and communities to focus on being prepared. “Emergencies can happen at anytime, anywhere,” said FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Russell. “They can range from natural disasters such as flooding, hurricanes and tornadoes to events such as power outages. The key to successful emergency response, regardless of the nature of the event, is personal preparedness. The New Year is a good time to make a resolution to be prepared through a few simple steps: get an emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan and be informed of the hazards in your area.” Resolve to be Ready 2011 is one resolution anyone can keep thanks to the tools and resources available at www.Ready.gov or the Spanish lan-

8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

guage site www.Listo.gov. These sites include important information such as how to put together a kit, make a plan and stay informed. Counseling and Psychotherapy Couples, individuals, communication skills, coming out, relationship issues, grief and substance abuse. Gay therapist for Lesbian and Gay Issues.

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

New Orleans Restaurant Guide

Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy

Occo Buco, braised veal shank in a garlic, thyme and white wine demi with asparagus & potatoes @ Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St.

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

12 oz. Blackened Ribeye @ Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St.

Red Velvet Cupcakes @ Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St.

Glazed 10 oz. Pork Chop with Steen's Cane Syrup & Creole Mustard served with duck fat potatoes & green beans @ The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.

Club Sandwich with Zapp's Potato Chips @ The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart St.

3-Layer Carrot Cake @ Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon St.

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

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

700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St., 561.1095, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM, is serving sliders, paninis, quesadillas, and more at the popular club in the French Quarter. Restaurant hours are 7pm til Wed.-Sun. with extended Decadence hours. Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445, is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials serving lunch and dinner. Now under the direction of Executive Chef David Duvall, the restaurant is open 11am-10pm Mon.-Tues., Thurs.-Fri.; 9am-10pm Sat.-Sun. with brunch 9am-3pm, closed Wed. MasterCard/Visa accepted. Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965, CafeAmelie.COM, offers romantic courtyard or indoor dining along with both eclectic culinary creations and cocktails. Open Wed.-Sat. with lunch 11am-3pm, dinner 6-9pm, Sun. brunch 11-3. Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon, 504.52.CANDY, is a new upscale dessert & specialty food store, open 7 days & weekends 24 hours. Best in desserts, snacks, cheeses, crackers, candies, NY bagels & knishes, po-boys, wraps & sandwiches. PLUS PLUS PLUS many organic, all natural & gluten free items, also DOG TREATS. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM, is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Cooyon’s Cajun Cooking! 1100 N. Peters St., 337.339.1131, CooyonsCajunCooking.COM. C’est Bon! This new open air restaurant in the Historic French Market is the perfect place to enjoy some of the best Cajun cooking. Come get “U” some! Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 945.0742, TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. Under the direction of Chef Coy LeBeau, he has taken attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM is part coffee shop, part cafe, and part bakery. "We take pride doing all our own baking, and you can order your next special treat from us," says owners Matt and Kevin. This little neighborhood place will fulfill your sweet tooth or both your breakfast or lunch cravings in a quiet setting while serving "desserts like Mom use to make". Located across the street by the Armstrong Park arch, the cafe is open Wed.-Sun. 7am - 3pm. The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley, 301.3347, GreenGoddessNOLA.COM, opened in May 2009 with a progressive menu that blends New Orleans sensibilities with a globetrotting sampling of ingredients, all emanating from the small open kitchen where chefs Chris DeBarr and Paul Artigues make it happen. Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030. Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops for fast food with tasty burgers, hot dogs and breakfast. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place, 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM, is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers. Open 7 days from 11am-10pm. Little Vic's Gelateria, 1912 Magazine St., 309.8236, is a gay owned and operated family labor of love in the works since owner Vic Caracci learned at age 11 to make real Italian gelato from his family, three generations of Sicilian-Americans who first immigrated to New Orleans's French Quarter in 1911. Pulling from almost a century of family experience in the food industry, Vic, 23, enlisted the help of his uncle from Messina, Sicily to train he and his cousins in the detailed and fine art of gelato making. Little Vic serves over 40 inventive flavors of gelato, including stracciatella, amaretto, bacio de gama, and limoncello, as well as fresh-made panino, pastries, and Lavazza espresso. Open 11am-10:30pm 7 days. Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St., 586.8883, MaximosGrill.COM, features New Orleans inspired Italian cuisine along with a wonderfully assorted wine selection. Experience Maximo’s open kitchen and watch Chef Thomas Woods prepare his extraordinary dishes. Open 6pm 7 days a week. Moms Mini Mart, 902 Poydras, 596.2223, is a quick stop in the CBD for hot dogs, nachos, snow balls, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, Icees and groceries. Open Mon.-Fri. 6am7pm, Sat. 7am-7pm, open later & Sundays during special events. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days. Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET, voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year, is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night menu, the deli offers free delivery. Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St., 872.0360, offers Fair Trade gourmet coffees, teas, cupcakes, scones, coffee by the pound, gift baskets, art & merchandise by local artists, stamps & mail box rentals, along with outdoor seating & Wi-Fi. Open 7am-10pm daily.

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

A Beacon of Hope

z once again has come to the forefront of gay nightlife in the city by bringing to the stage one of the most amazing nights of music I have attended in a gay bar in a long while. On Thursday, December 16, the cast of Monty Python’s Spamalot performed a one night only cabaret to benefit Beacon of Hope. Beacon of Hope provides a model for recovery in neighborhoods devastated by Hurricane Katrina as well as other areas affected by disaster. Encouraging civic action, fostering repopulation, providing information and resources is the foundation on which we build and grow. Beacon of Hope empowers residents to facilitate their own recovery while providing a hub of resident driven activities and a safe environment to create the synergy essential for restoring viable neighborhoods and improve the overall quality of life for residents. Words cannot even begin to describe what an incredible treat this event provided the patrons of Oz. Not only did you get to experience Broadway performers up close and personal, but they mixed and mingled with the audience. From the stage manager to the chorus (god, I love chorus boys), everyone was friendly, personable, and most of all, willing to donate their time for a great cause to benefit the City of New Orleans. The songs performed ranged from the fun and flirty to the heartfelt and soulful. The Lady of the Lake, Caroline Bowman, brought the house down with her powerful voice. And, what can I say about all the male performers, when they all took to the stage for a group holiday song, I melted. Talk about being serenaded by some of the hottest men, it is a gay man’s dream. They ended with the song with the hit from their show “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” which was a perfect way to end such an uplifting night of music. They even had a live auction for tickets to any performance of the show and a silent auction that included Spamalot memorabilia. I won The Arthur Award, which meant that I was head peasant. I will cherish that gold plated foot for the rest of my life. If nothing it is a reminder of a magical evening of music, fun and lovely people. I would like to personally thank the cast of this touring production of Spamalot and Oz New Orleans for making this a most memorable and enjoyable night. For more information on this wonderful cause, go to lakewoodbeacon.org, or to learn more

Tony Leggio receives The Arthur Award about Spamalot, go to montypythonsspamalot.com. Oz is located at 800 Bourbon Street, and to find more about this award winning nightspot, go to ozneworleans.com.

Bartender of the Month: January

anuary is the perfect month for my pick as bartender of the month. We kick off Carnival season with 12th Night on January 6th, which is also known as King’s Day. Well, this person may not be a king, but she is royalty. My choice for bartender of the month is none other than the unique Princesse Stephaney. You can find her bartending at Starlight by the Park on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to seven. Not only do I consider this person a good friend, but I have to say, she is one determined individual. I do believe one day she woke up and said, I think

I am going to be a bartender. And sure enough, she did it. Now she may not be the most experienced bartender in the city, but she is definitely one of the most entertaining ones. When you go see Princesse at the bar, it is similar to going to a comedy nightclub. She is a true performer even behind the bar. You will laugh as she slings drinks and delivers wisecracks. She has her special cocktails that she makes each week. I have to say, her pumpkin martinis did me in the other evening. Make it a point to go for an after work drink, or sneak out early during the week and hang with one of the city’s true characters. Then you can tell all your friends that you drank with royalty. Starlight by the Park is located at 834 North Rampart Street.

The Ultimate 12th Night Party

his year the definitive 12th Night party will be held on Saturday, January 8 (I know technically two days after). The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is celebrating the kickoff to Mardi Gras season in style with their annual 12th Night Gala from 7pm to 10pm at the private banquet space upstairs at K-Joe’s located in the heart of the French Quarter at 720 St. Louis Street (the old Lucky Cheng’s). This beautiful venue boasts great food, an outdoor rooftop patio and a special parlor honoring New Orleans legend Chris Owens. There will be delectable cuisine, great entertainment and the announcement of Satyricon’s new royalty for the ball. In addition, the king and queen of 12th Night are chosen. Every person who attends this event has their name entered into a drawing. You can either choose to be a king or a queen; we are not gender specific. These lucky two individuals will have a chair at the captain’s table and get to promenade in front of all the guests at the ball. Tickets prices are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. For more information call 504.525.4498 or go to mystickreweofsatyricon.com.

Night Racing at the New Orleans Fairgrounds Racecourse and Slots

January Bartender of the Month Princesse Stephaney

house or hang out in the grandstands where you are only mere feet away from these powerful horses as they race toward victory. I did the clubhouse and it was definitely the place where a lot of the action was. The live band they had playing that night was the Boogiemen. The entire evening turned into great people watching. New Orleans’ hottie Jeremy Davenport played the bugle to signify the start of the night races. If you paid for the clubhouse entrance, it also entitles you to a special tent they have downstairs next to the grandstand adjacent to the track. Now that place is party central with lounge furniture, food, specialty martinis in lighted horse head glasses, a DJ spinning hot dance tunes and the piece de résistance, sexy go-go dancers dressed as jockeys with whips. If you do not want to go to the clubhouse, you

horoughbred horseracing has been known through out the ages as the Sport of Kings. As a child my father would take me to the racetrack all the time, in fact I do believe that I learned how to read a racing form before Dr. Seuss. Well the racetrack in a bid to introduce this majestic sport to a new generation has begun night racing once a month. I went to their December event and it was not only an exciting scene but profitable at the same time (I won several races.) Post time starts at 5pm and you can have dinner in the club-

12 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

can just pay a mere $10 and be a part of all the excitement in the tent. You will not miss any of the races because the [continued on 14]

The AmbushMag.COM Difference! N e x t Ed i t i o n :

Pre-Super Bowl Runs Jan. 18-Feb. 1

DEA DL I N E: Tues., Jan. 11

5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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under the gaydar ...from 12 tent opens up next to the track where you have a perfect view of the races. The next Starlight Racing event is on January 21 with the Top Cats playing upstairs. They will continue the series through March. For more information, go to fairgroundsracecourse.com. Get racy and see you at the track!

Don We Now Our Gay Apparel: Part 2

have officially survived the Christmas holiday, barely. With all this yuletide cheer, my liver needed to take a well-deserved break before Mardi Gras. So I thought you might be interested in some of the gaiety that went on this Christmas season in case you would like to partake in these festivities next year So let’s look at the 12 days before Christmas leading up to the big day. On the first day of Christmas (two Mondays before), I did not get a partridge in a pear tree but I went to the Oz and the Wood Enterprises employee parties. Both were very nice, moods were festive and the holidays were bright. On the second day of Christmas, I went with my friend Jeff (aka Elizabeth Bouvier) to see Spamalot at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre. We saw a lot of people we knew, and enjoyed a night of good Broadway theatre. On the third day of Christmas, I went to three gay holiday parties. Oz, Pub and 700 Club all held their annual yuletide fetes and they were each wonderful in their own way. Each club took this time of the year to help give back to the New Orleans community with Oz and Pub collecting toys for underprivileged kids while the 700 Club charged a $10 cover to benefit Project Lazarus and Belle Reve raising $2,000. Each bar had amazing food and the atmosphere was definitely jolly and gay. As with tradition every year, Oz hosts their Christmas drag show emceed by the vibrant Persana Shoulders, lesbian bitch of the North Pole. On the fourth day of Christmas, I managed to make four very cool events. First was the Belle Reve holiday party which was a very eye opening experience. For years we donate to fundraisers to help this organization, but I truly do not think half the people have ever been on a tour of this facility. I went to their holiday gathering and got to meet some of the residents and take a personal tour of the homes. To say I was moved is an understatement; the people who work here are making a difference in peoples’ lives on a personal level. If you have a chance to see Belle Reve and meet the people who live and work there, every donation you give or get from another person will mean so much more. Isn’t this what the holiday spirit is all about? The second party of that night was the

Corner Pocket Holiday Extravaganza, which had a scrumptious buffet; a quite entertaining show hosted by Lisa Beaumann with special guests Barry Bareass and Klorocks Bleachman, and hot Santa helpers. Talk about boys who can heat up your North Pole. The third stop of the night was the Tales of the Cocktail holiday Tales of the Toddy event held at the Hotel Monteleone. This party had several restaurants serving food, vendors selling their special wares as great Christmas presents, and some of the top bartenders in the city making their specialty cocktails. Tales’ holiday event is always one of my favorite things to do during this time of year, not only because I get some unique last minute gifts, but I discover new trendy watering holes around New Orleans. From Uptown to the French Quarter and beyond, there are new bars opening up all over with their own distinct image and I for one cannot wait to check some of them out in the upcoming year. The last event I went to the night was the crowning touch on a fabulous evening. It was the special cabaret performance put on by the cast of Spamalot at Oz. I could not have asked for a better way to end the evening. On the fifth day of Christmas, I took my mother to the night racing at the Fairgrounds. Talk about a fun and exhilarating way to spend an evening. If you want to try something a little different next time you and your friends go out, go to the night racing. On the sixth day of Christmas, we were given a new King Cake Queen. I went to Rip and Marsha’s house for a small celebration in honor of Miss Rona Conners who will be King Cake Queen 18, The Chrysanthemum Queen. It was a lovely evening with great people from the gay community and I have never seen Miss Conners look so radiant. After that I went to a splendid holiday party at the house of my friends Valerie and Shannon. All my friends were there and we danced the night away and made merry with one of the best open bars in the city. On the seventh day of Christmas, I participated in Cathy Fox’s Christmas Catastrophe at John Paul’s. Or should I say Antoinette Ella Chardonnay made her holiday appearance. It was a fun night of great performers who rarely take the stage like me, Cadillac Seville and Ms. Jenkins. We raised a lot of worthy funds for St. Anna’s Food Bank totalling $1,040. On the eighth day of Christmas, I went to my board dinner with the National Association of Catering Executives. It was a hearty banquet at Ruth Chris’s Steakhouse on Fulton Street in Harrah’s Hotel. I have been several times prior, but tonight everything shined from the service to the cuisine. And having the holiday lights of Fulton Street as our backdrop enhanced our festivities. On the ninth day of Christmas, I went to the gay mafia luncheon at

Galatoire's. Every year my three friends Nick, James, Marvin and I go to lunch together to celebrate the holidays. We are all in the hospitality industry and usually very busy. But making time for friends and family is what this holiday is all about, so we get off of work early and we spend the afternoon at a great restaurant, and then drinks in the Quarter. As always, the downstairs dining room at Galatoire’s was a happening scene filled with celebratory revelers. The food was delectable and the service top notch. After we strolled through the Quarter and had cocktails at the Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone, Oz, Pub and finally ending the evening at Starlight by the Park for some of Princesse Stephaney’s Pumpkin Martinis. After three of those, I had to put myself down for the night. On the tenth day of Christmas, I went home and wrapped all my Christmas presents, then to bed early. No playing that night. On the eleventh day of Christmas, my company, Mardi Gras Productions, had our holiday luncheon at the Marriott Hotel on the 41st Floor overlooking the city. It was a spectacular view of the city and the afternoon was full not only with camaraderie with co-workers, but a feeling of excitement for business in the New Year. After the lunch, coworkers Brad, Nolan and I traipsed into the Quarter for more cocktails, which ended up as shots at Oz. I went home after a few hours of that and met my friends Laura and Gary for our holiday dinner at La Cote restaurant in the Renaissance Arts Hotel in the Warehouse District, which is a fabulous restaurant with great food and a very hot chef. The twelfth day of Christmas (Christmas Eve), I went to my mom’s house in River Ridge and cooked all day for the upcoming holiday family and friends dinner the following day. I learned how to make my grandmother’s bread budding with Jack Daniel’s sauce, Italian sausage and shrimp cornbread dressing, stuffed eggs, stuffed celery and mirliton casserole. We also prepared the house for the guests arrival the following day. I came home exhausted and skipped all my Christmas Eve parties, and crashed at 6:30 that night and slept to the following morning at 5am. I woke up bright eyed, excited about the day. It always amazes me that no matter what age I am, the feeling of anticipation for Christmas makes me transgress back to my childhood again. I opened up the presents I bought for my babies, Lily, Rose and Dandelion, my two miniature dachshunds and German Sheppard. After they had their treats, played with their toys and been walked. I got ready and trotted off to my mom’s house. It was great playing host to all my wonderfully zany family and friends. We had a great meal and laughed a lot. I think that when you have tough times like this last year with the economy and just life in general, laughter is our only

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hope of salvation. After the meal and everyone had left, I helped my mom clean up and returned home, but my day was far from over. I got a bag ready and was picked up by Princesse Stephaney and we were off to JohnPaul’s where we were part of Marcy Marcell’s Christmas in Chalmette show. This was a rollicking, albeit tragically funny, poke at the holidays. I did a duet with Princesse entitled Merry Christmas Asshole, and then participated in the 12 Yats of Christmas for the finale. Regina Adams brought down the house with her cocaine infused rendition of White Christmas. And being a part of the chorus for We Need A Little Christmas from Mame; as Keno, me, and Regina decorated Eva Las Vegas as a Christmas tree was an unforgettable experience. It was a perfect way to end the holiday with friends and cocktails. Thank you again for always supporting Ambush and this column. I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and looking forward to a prosperous 2011. Happy Mardi Gras Y’all.

A Stritch New Year

“

I cannot believe we survived the holidays and it is New Year’s Eve. And look at me now, chasing after that Russell the Love Muscle guy,” I said to Elizabeth as we trailed behind this Russell character two car lengths to a bar in the Marigny. Elizabeth and I are still working on a blackmail case involving Elaine Stritch, I mean Cathy Fox. It seems the blackmailer has upped his demands for her crowns, sashes and pins and if she does not comply by January 1, all the sordid details of her life will be made public. Our suspect list was four male gigilos that she has been seeing over the past few months. We are finally tailing the last one. We found out nothing at the holiday party Elizabeth threw at her home over the holidays which turned into a melee. So this was our last chance. “Stop your complaining, it is not like you have a date or anything. Ever since you broke up with Colston, you have been wallowing in self-pity. I really do not know what your problem is with that guy, he was a stud.” “He was also a call boy for Rhonda Roget. I really do not think you can really classify it as a relationship, if he has sex with other people. I mean then you just become roommates that screw, or that tired phrase ‘friends with privileges’.” “Honey, if you want monogamy turn into a lesbian, that word is not in a man’s vocabulary, gay or straight. You show me a man who says he doesn’t cheat and I will show you a eunich.” “That is very cynical.” “Oh yeah, prove me wrong.” It was no use arguing with her, and she seemed to be making a valid point. [continued on 17]

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Bourbon Pub Parade owners, current & past, Sandy & Bobby @ the Pub’s Christmas Party

French Quarter Suites’ Blake & bar baron Mike @ 700 Club’s Disco Christmas Party

Ambush’s Tony, Kenny & Jerry @ Corner Pocket party

DJ of the Year Myke & partner Max @ W.E. Xmas Party

Who knew Sammy was soo HOTT in tights @ Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party

Bryce & bar baron Matt @ 700 Club’s Disco Christmas Party

Double Play’s Chuck, Will & Trevor pop in for CP’s Christmas Party

snap Rawhide manager Joe & partner Troy @ W.E. Xmas Party

Mike welcomes Ray & Chris to 700 Club’s Christmas Party

paparazzi

Joe M ‘Poodle’ Palafox & Jasmine SX @ Bourbon Pub Parade

Ambush’s Tony & Chris with Belle Reve’s Michele & Vicki @ Wood Enterprises Xmas Party

Matt, Dennis, Matt, Michael & Jeffrey (front) behind the bar for 700 Club party

Chris with Cowboy Dave & Marc @ Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party One of the hot dancer’s @ the Pocket’s Christmas Party

Bobby Blue’s Scott & Skullz’s Scott @ W.E. Xmas Party

Santa & his Elf pop in for 700 Club’s Disco Christmas Party

Klorocks Bleachman, Barry Bareass & Lisa Beaumann entertain @ Corner Pocket party

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Patricia McArdle & Tiffany Alexander @ Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party

In The Spirit of the Holidays ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin Black, Tony Leggio

Wood Enterprises GM Ken welcomes guest to Wood Enterprises Employee Xmas Party

Ambush’s Marsha, Hoyle & King Cake Queen-Elect Rona Conners @ Corner Pocket Christmas Party

eighth annual ambie awards

by Brian Sands & Patrick Shannon

he changeover at City Hall, the BP oil spill, and, of course, the Saints’ Super Bowl win—how much more drama

could you ask for?! And yet our local theaters, with over 100 productions from da Quarter to Slidell, provided outstanding dramas—and comedies and musicals—in abundance in 2010. In recognition of the distinguished work done in the past twelve months, we are delighted to announce the nominees for the Eighth Annual Ambie Awards. It is a measure of the depth and breadth of our local theater scene [continued on 19]

under the gaydar ...from 14 No matter we were on a case and had to find the culprit before our time ran out. “Look he went into that bar on the corner. I did not know they had a bar named after the capital of Arizona. Is it a western bar?” Elizabeth said getting out of the car. “Umm, not exactly, listen before you go in there I think there is something you should know about this place.” “No time, we need to move, besides, I know my way around a bar without any problems,” she disappeared into the bar. I followed her in quickly, knowing full well the type of bar we were entering. Inside on the first floor of the bar there were about six people drinking all to themselves and no one really talking to anyone. “Look he is heading upstairs,” Elizabeth said hot on his trail. “Wait one second,” I grabbed her arm. “I think I better check this out. They really do not like girls up there.” “Nonsense, what type of bar does not want the likes of Elizabeth Bouvier in their establishment. It is not like I am Cathy Fox, now I hear she has been kicked out of places like this before. But me, never.” With that she turned heel and went upstairs. I ran up after her. When I got to the top of the stairs I bumped into Elizabeth. “How in the hell can anyone see anything up here it is so dark.” “I think that is the way they like it.” “Whatever, I can’t function like this.” She pulled out her cell phone from her purse and flipped it on illuminating the darkened room with a miniscule light as she made her way to the back. “Hey you with the phone, who do you think you are? Turn that light out.” “I am Nancy Pelosi, now shut the hell up and get me a vodka stinger.” I ducked my head and refused to look in the direction of the bar, but I could only imagine that we had a few minutes before we were bounced from this place. “Look there he is, he is fixing that guy’s zipper. Here let’s go ask him a few questions.” “I do not think he is fixing a zipper, maybe we should wait till he …..” It was too late, she was already beside him and leaning down. She got a full view of what exactly he was doing and then stood back up for a brief moment, fixed her hair, then bent down again. “I see you have your mouth full, but just shake your head yes or no. Have you been blackmailing Cathy Fox?” He shook his head side to side vigorously and the man in front of him groaned. “Thank you for your time. Let’s go, he is not the blackmailer.” When we got downstairs, she turned to me. “I am at a lost; it is obvious that he is not interested in anything Cathy has to offer. I give up. Maybe we are looking at this wrong, if it is not one of the man whores, I cannot fathom who would want to bring Cathy to her knees, it is not like she is stealing someone’s husband or anything. And what is happening; is all Rhonda’s men gay? Colston, this Love muscle guy, hell, it is even getting hard for straight women to buy it nowadays.” Suddenly a light bulb went off in my head. “Elizabeth, I think you just solved the mystery. I know our blackmailer and I know how we can catch him. I have an idea on setting a trap.” “Here is your drink Ms. Pelosi,” the bartender said placing the cocktail in her hand at the downstairs bar. “Well, aww hell, happy new year,” and she swallowed it down. “Why don’t we go out and find some forgettable men who we can have meaningless sex with. It looks like it is going to be a good year, so we might as well have it start and end with a bang.” (Wishing everyone a prosperous and happy new year.” If you would like your event mentioned in my article, or have something of interest, please email me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.

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eighth ambie awards ...from 17 that 49 different productions have been honored with at least one nomination. As always, the Ambies are totally subjective, occasionally arbitrary, inclusive only of the shows we saw (sorry to all others) and not at all validated by Price Waterhouse. Congratulations to all our nominees who have trod the boards in our wonderfully surreal metropolis with loyal devotion, boundless imagination and theatrical wizardry. The Ambies will be presented at Le Petit on Monday, February 21 and we hope that all nominees will be able to attend. There will be a minimal suggested admission charge with the net proceeds going to NOCCA’s Theater Department. Please spread the word and wish a hearty “Break a leg!” to all whose names appear below: Uniquest Theatrical Experience: Fantastic Mister Fox, The CAC and HI-YAH!; Forbidden Broadway, Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré; Lisa Sings Lee, Le Chat Noir; Some Times at the All Ways, Scott Heron/The Marigny Theater & AllWays Lounge; Wine Lovers, Solomon Group, HollyAnne Ruggiero & Le Petit Theatre Best Production of a Musical: Grey Gardens, Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré & Southern Rep; Into the Woods, JPAS Summer Youth Musical Theatre (East Bank); The Producers, JPAS; The Threepenny Opera, AllWays Lounge & Cripple Creek; Violet, NOCCA Stage Company; When Pigs Fly, Theatre 13 Best Production of a Drama: Autobahn, Delgado Community College; Ceremonies in Dark Old Men, Anthony Bean Community Theater; Frozen, Crescent Theatre Collective; In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play, Southern Rep; The Madwoman of Chaillot, Cripple Creek Theatre Company; The Twilight of the Golds, Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans Best Production of a Comedy: Fully Committed, Isidore Newman High School; Little Murders, Cripple Creek Theatre Company; Matt and Ben, Theatre 13; The Mystery of Irma Vep, RickyGraham/Jeff Roberson/Le Chat Noir; The Really Desperate Housewives of Stepford Parish, Running With Scissors; The Santaland Diaries, Le Chat Noir Best Original Work: The Everlasting Bonfire, Jim Fitzmorris/The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane; Fantastic Mister Fox, Arthur Mintz with Bryan Spitzfaden/The CAC and HI-YAH!; Go Ye Therefore...,Rebecca Mwase & Kathy Randels/ArtSpot Productions; Laugh, Cry, Scream & Shout, Tabitha Bethune & Stylist B; The Really Desperate Housewives of Stepford Parish, Running With Scissors Best Director of a Musical: A.J. Allegra, Urinetown; Blake Coheley, Violet; Ricky Graham, Hairspray;

Aimee Hayes, Grey Gardens; Dennis Monn, The Threepenny Opera; Robert Mulholland, The Producers Best Director of a Play: Andrea Carlin, Little Murders; Ricky Graham and Jeffery Roberson, The Mystery of Irma Vep; Glenn Meche, Frozen; René J.F. Piazza, The Twilight of the Golds; Ashley Sparks, Go Ye Therefore...; Emilie Whelan, The Madwoman of Chaillot Best Actor in a Musical: A. J. Allegra, The Producers; Larry Johnson, Evita; Sean Patterson, Hairspray; Adam Segrave, Urinetown; Cliff Thompson, [title of show]; Chris Wecklein, The Producers Best Actress in a Musical: Leslie Castay, Grey Gardens; Jade Coates, Into the Woods; Dianna Duffy, Hairspray; Pandora Gastelum, The Threepenny Opera; Janie Heck, Violet; Prinsey Walker, The Wiz

Best Actor in a Play: Ethan Andersen, Fully Committed; Benjamin Clement, Dinner With Friends; Damany S. Cormier, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men; Keith Launey, Frozen; T. Joe Seibert, The Twilight of the Golds; Jackson Townsend, Little Murders Best Actress in a Play: Tabitha Bethune, Laugh, Cry, Scream & Shout; Vanessa Cloke, Dinner With Friends; Liz Mills, reasons to be pretty; Jennifer Pagan, The Madwoman of Chaillot; Diana Shortes, Frozen; Peggy Walton-Walker, The Piano Teacher Best Featured Actor in a Musical: Brooks Braselman, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum; Roland “Butch” Caire, Jr., Hairspray; Bob Edes, Jr., The Producers; Andy Golden, Into the Woods; Josh Kagler, The Wiz; Armando L. Leduc, The Producers

Best Featured Actress in a Musical: Becky Allen, The Threepenny Opera; Jennifer DeLatte, Singin’ in the Rain; Monica R. Harris, The Threepenny Opera; Kesha McKey, Hairspray; Julie Montalbano, Into the Woods; Janet Shea, Grey Gardens Best Featured Actor in a Play: Anthony Bean, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men; Tim Bellow, Jr., To Kill a Mockingbird; Brooks Braselman, Auntie Mame; Bob Edes, Jr., The Really Desperate Housewives of Stepford Parish; Brian Peterson, The Really Desperate Housewives of Stepford Parish; James Howard Wright, The Twilight of the Golds Best Featured Actress in a Play: Samantha Beaulieu, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men; Nadine Cutno, Steal Away; Ashley Ricord, Steel Magnolias; Rachel Robinson, reasons to be [continued on 22]

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spotlight

acadiana happens

Sir Speedy Meets Customer Demand for Costeffective Marketing Support, Digital Printing Provides Offset Quality with Fast-turnaround

ayne Chambless, owner of Sir Speedy located at 343 Carondelet Street, reports the printing and marketing business has been brisk helping current and new customers throughout the New Orleans area with cost effective marketing solutions. "Thanks to digital technology, we are able to provide our customers with fast, affordable printing that closely matches the quality of traditional offset printing," said Chambless. “Even though companies are cutting back, they still need to do marketing. Actually, this is the perfect time for companies to market themselves as they have a better chance of getting noticed,” added Chambless. “Our state-of-the art digital production capabilities enable us to do flyers, brochures, spec sheets, booklets, and manuals, in smaller quantities, quickly and more affordably with the same high-quality our customers need.” Sir Speedy’s digital printing service makes one to one marketing affordable for small businesses. Variable printing turns average documents into personalized, printed communications that become powerful marketing tools for generating leads and driving sales. With the use of QR Codes, (Quick Response Codes), the company offers another low cost marketing tool, for today’s Smart Phone users. Visit sirspeedyneworleans.com for a video demonstration of QR Codes and a FREE opportunity to create your own QR Code online. Sir Speedy also prints signs, banners and posters and helps companies with promotional products to build brand awareness. Sir Speedy of New Orleans is locally owned and operated and is affiliated with a worldwide network of printing brands and affiliates that spans more than 700 locations in 13 countries. Sir Speedy offers a full range of traditional printing and copying services including graphic design, finishing, posters and banners, and mailing and fulfillment. In addition, they also provide expanded services such as promotional products, scanning and archiving, integrated direct marketing programs, Web to Print, Web Site Design, solutions and more. We have added Marketing Services to our line and are now helping many companies that cannot afford to use Advertising Agencies with affordable marketing solutions. Based in Mission Viejo, California, Sir Speedy, Inc. has received numerous awards and recognition including the Franchise Times Top 200, Entrepreneur Franchise 500, Quick Printing Top 100, Printing Impressions 400, a Franchise 50 Award and a Franchisee Satisfaction Award.

eighth ambie awards ...from 19 pretty; Janet Shea, Steel Magnolias; Emilie Whelan, Little Murders Best Ensemble: Almost, Maine (Vera Aaron, David Hanks, Dylan Miller, Gabriela C. Rivera); Dinner With Friends (Chelle Ambrose, Benjamin Clement, Leon Contavesprie, Vanessa Cloke); Forbidden Broadway (Leslie Castay, Dianna Duffy, Vatican Lokey, Cliff Thompson); Matt and Ben (Jessica Podewell, Nancy Upton); The 39 Steps (Sean Patterson, Gary Rucker, Jessie Terrebonne, Shad Willingham); When Pigs Fly (William Bryant, Kyle Daigrepont, Jermaine Keelen, Patrick Mendelson, Brian Peterson) Best Costume Design: Kristen Bruce, Jarrad Legania, Urinetown; Cecile Casey Covert, The Mystery of Irma Vep; Linda Fried, Hairspray; Katie Gelfand, The Madwoman of Chaillot; Kelly James-Penot, The Producers; Valerie Johnson, When Pigs Fly Best Lighting Design: Hannah Adams, Go Ye Therefore...; Joshua Courtney, To Kill a Mockingbird; Su Gonczy, The Mystery of Irma Vep; Paul Hackenmueller, Hairspray; Joan

Long, In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play; Selena Poznak, The Threepenny Opera Best Set Design: Martin Andrew, afterlife: a ghost story; Elizabeth Broomall, Into the Woods; Geoffrey Hall, The Misanthrope; Michael P. Kramer, Steel Magnolias; Arthur Mintz, Fantastic Mister Fox; David Raphel, In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play Best Choreography: Blake Cohely, Hairspray; Blake Cohely & Keisha McKay, Urinetown; Griffin Collins, The Wiz; Alton Geno, The Producers; Jaune Buisson Hebert, Curtains; Karen Hebert & Kevin Champagne, When Pigs Fly Best Music Director: Ben Childress, Into the Woods; John Giraud, Evita; Harry Mayronne/Walter McClements, The Threepenny Opera; Jeremy Pierre, The Wiz; Jesse Reeks, Forbidden Broadway; Eric Shimelonis, Grey Gardens Best Sound Design: Alden Eagle, Little Murders; Rene Duffourc and Bryan Spitzfaden, Fantastic Mister Fox; Thad Griffin, The Mystery of Irma Vep; Mike Harkins, afterlife: a ghost story; Jeremy J. Lee, In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play;

by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com Twitter: JoeyC_583

heers sweetie! Is it too late for that? Then Happy New Year is how I shall begin this issue. A few days in and I’m already trying to stay true to those resolutions. Here’s a toast to them. Oh wait, did I give up wine and vodka? Yeah, if you know me then you know that could never happen. Nonetheless, cheers to 2011. Let’s make it count! You’re listening up with Joey Collins.

Recapping a Night Cap

he month of December was definitely an eventful month filled with holiday cheer, tacky sweaters, bad Santa, and a messy weekend. Some of it we may remember and then some of it we may not remember so clearly. Whether you woke up on one of the mornings lying across your bed or floor, still in your clothes and shoes from the night before, trying to remember how you arrived there and where your car is, or you woke up like a pro with no hang over and remember who the trick in your bed is, odds are that you passed a wonderful time. Good for you! Recently Bianca Del Rio paid a visit to the area when Brodie “Mess” Meche put together “One Messy Weekend”. From the beginning with both names headlining, you already knew that you were guaranteed a fabulous time. Participants were definitely not let down. Bianca and Brodie paraded from Lafayette to Lake Charles when she performed at Crystal’s and with no doubt lived up to their promise when patrons were intrigued by Bianca’s famous wit and Cher impersonation. The word was quickly spread about Bianca Del Rio’s amazing Friday performance and by Sunday Tonic was packed with spectators waiting to get a piece of the action. Bianca Del Rio hosted Drag Queen Bingo and Tonic’s infamous Sunday Night Drag Show. Those who participated will be talking about an amazing messy weekend for months to come. Jules ushered in Christmas with a naughty Santa and a free photo booth ready to capture memories for its patrons. Their splendiferous Christmas Eric Shimelonis, With A Bang Best Hair (inc. wigs) and MakeUp Design: Erin Alexander, The Threepenny Opera; Chris Arthur, The New Century; Christopher S. Arthur/ Oliver Manhattan, Steel Magnolias; Andrea Carlin, The Madwoman of Chaillot; Linda & Don Guillot, The

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and Christmas Eve Party raised the bar for any holiday party. This was not your grandma’s Christmas Party. Free shots on the bar, memorable drink specials, and adventurous dance music topped the night. This was the perfect setting for those who were done with the family and needed an outlet to unwind from the traditional Christmas activities. I can’t wait to see what both venues have in store for next year. By this time many of you should have experienced the even grandeur events that had been planned for New Year’s Eve. Raise a glass to the passing of the holidays and the memories that it brought.

Bar Spill

ules just loves to wow its patrons. Owners Darren Parker and Wendy Wallace along with their very hospitable staff have been working hard to make sure that you stay true to the fabulous environment in which they have created. From Thursday night karaoke reigning to the Saturday night drink specials and amazing dance music, always remember to come and get your Jules on! Many more changes and surprises are right around the corner for 2011. Some are so secret that I find myself often begging Darren to share but he refuses. You’d swear he thinks I posses a big mouth or something. Hopefully, eventually I will be successful in prying such events from him and will soon be able to share them with you. Just make sure that we keep it between us when I finally do. Odds are that you’ve already attended at least one night of Kira’s Talent Tuesday hosted by Brodie “Mess” Meche and if you haven’t then you’re really depriving yourself of a night of laughter, amazement, fun, and maybe some disappointment. Regardless you will most definitely enjoy yourself. Make sure that you take part in it between now and Saturday, January 15th because on this night Tonic will feature Entertainer of the Year. This will be the final night to cast your vote for the best [continued on 27] Music Man; Gerard Kelly, Carolyn Barrois, The Mystery of Irma Vep Best Original Music: Aeryk & Morella: Laura Laws, Edward Payne & Anastacia Ternasky, Oedipus: Category 5; The Bally Who?, Fantastic Mister Fox; Ratty Scurvics, The Madwoman of Chaillot

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Ambush’s Tony Leggio & Little Vic’s Vic Caracci @ Oz Christmas Party

Danni, Matt, Warren, Keith & Chris @ Four Seasons Christmas Party in Metairie

Owner Chuck joins Frank @ 4 Seasons Christmas Party

snap paparazzi

Chris, Persana & Adrien working the Oz Christmas Party

Doug & Kelton celebrate with Baby Vincent @ Le Roundup Christmas Party

GM John & Ronald celebrate @ Double Play Christmas Party

Selece behind the bar for Le Roundup Christmas Party

Mother Moses & Jim @ Double Play Christmas Party

Marcy Marcell & Eva Las Vegas pop in for Le Roundup Christmas Party

David, Ronnie & Tom join Double Play Christmas Party

The newest addition to Four Seasons ...Otis

Raven Kennedy, Kenneth Matherne & Tyriq Davenport Kennedy @ Oz Christmas Party

Chris, Keith & SDGM Toby @ 4 Seasons Christmas Party

Markham Bradburn & Brodie Meche @ Oz

Chris & John @ 4 Seasons Christmas Party

Maggie Marrero in for Le Roundup Christmas Party

Colette, Candise, Tony & Deanna serve Christmas Eve Dinner @ Le Roundup

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Corner Pocket’s Franco, Jerry & Ashlee pop in for Double Play Christmas Party

Will serves cocktails for Double Play Christmas Party

The Holiday Season ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Devin Black, Tony Leggio

Coca Milan, Lisa Beaumann, Mercedes Ellis Loreal & Dominique DeLorean on stage @ Oz Christmas Party

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acadiana

papar azzi

Hunter & DJ Kyle D @ Tonic DJ Kyle D striking a pose @ Jules Bianca Del Rio as Cher

What did Rick do this time?!?!

Bianca Del Rio having fun w/ audience members @ Tonic

Natalie & Tayler @ Jules

Ryan is obviously enjoying his night out

Bobby serving drinks @ Tonic

Joe spinning tunes @ Jules

Such beautiful faces @ Tonic

Todd & Macky

Bianca Del Rio & Brodie @ Tonic Josh has so many friends @ Jules Justin taking time from a busy night @ Jules Laura & Nick enjoying an evening downtown

Bianca Del Rio & Brian

Darren acting fancy @ Tonic

Richard, Brandon, Darius, John & Katie @ Tonic

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

Andre, Hunter & Jared

Striking A Pose ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins

Steven serving up free shots on the bar @ Jules

acadiana happens ...from 22 of the best from 2010. Regardless if it is a Tuesday night or not, remember that Tonic is open seven days a week. Follow Tonic on Facebook to keep up to date with daily events and specials. As always, the best way to stay informed is to follow the following groups on Facebook: Tonic, Jules, Lafayette Lesbians, Lafayette Gay Men. Of course don’t forget that you can find the most recent issues of Ambush including sll ads at AmbushMag.COM.

That’s Sexual!

ou know the typical routine when a friend really needs to grab your attention? I’m talking about when one's cell phone goes off and you may not be able to answer yet they continue to call and/or text you? Yeah, that’s when I usually switch my phone to “airplane” mode. On this particular day I decided to take the bait and see what the deal was. As I put down my wine glass and hit the green button on my iPhone, my good friend, Chris, explodes with excitement in his voice. “You will never guess what happened last night!” As my eyes roll towards the back of my head, I can only imagine what sort of story is about to spill out of his mouth. He proceeds to set the scene of a recent drunken night involving a mutual friend.

Cut to a random bar downtown, we’ve all been there. You notice a drunken friend of yours who is filled with the liquid courage and attempts to make a pass at someone that they find amazingly attractive. All I can say is that thank God for alcohol because some people just may not ever get laid. Nonetheless, this mutual friend of ours, for anonymous reasons we shall call him Robert, is trying his hardest to keep his composure as he attempts to bed a random guy in the bar. The guy he is after, who we will refer to as David, is apparently in awe at the attention and is naive enough to not even notice the drunken stupor of our friend. Robert is delivering the sketchy one line pick up clichés yet is slurring every word. David is eating every word up and by the time the lights come on, the two agree to go home with one another. Robert ends up riding home with David because for obvious reasons, he is unable to drive. The two are really reading one another’s chemistry on the way to David’s house and cannot wait to make it to their final resting destination for the night. They take advantage of every red light by engaging in long passionate kisses and the occasional brush in the private areas. Suddenly they are caught in the moment and decide that they can wait no longer and pull over into a random Wal-Mart parking lot. David kills the engine and the headlights of the car

and invites Robert into the back seat. Everyone’s dignity flies out the window the moment the two begin stripping clothes off of one another. The two continue to engage in kisses and begin to get even more into the moment by doing, well, you know… Use your own imagination. Suddenly in the heat of things a large bright light floods the interior of the car and blue strobe lights are reflecting in the rear view mirrors. Busted! Cops have shown up to the scene. Cut to the two bent over across the back of a cop car, in handcuffs, and wearing only their underwear. Is this a naughty ending to the perfect night? Not so much. By dawn Robert is sobering up and trying to figure out where he is and why he is there. Once he realizes he is in jail panic sets in. The only problem is that he cannot remember what he did to arrive there. He turns to David, who is in the same cell as he is, and certain memories begin to appear. What’s even worse is that David is not the most attractive of guys and he is also the current best friend of Robert’s ex. Try and explain this one when you have to make that one phone call. As a good friend, where does the moral obligation of the cock block come into play? Should it have been allowed to progress this far or is one responsible, regardless of blood alcohol levels, for one’s own actions? It would be

interesting to know who all has been on either end of this story and how they handled it or even how they would have handled it from each perspective. In the end bond was paid and the cops felt such empathy for the embarrassment the two endured that charges were not pressed. I could only imagine the further embarrassment if such a case were to be fought in court. So what’s the moral of the story? Remember to always be patient and wait until you reach your final destination of the evening. Otherwise you may end up in a similar predicament.

Closing Out

he year 2010 has been fun and a very memorable one. DADT was finally repealed at one of the final hours of the year and marking 2010 a victory for our community. It shall be interesting to see how much more progressive this country will become in regards to the LGBT community. Much gratitude is owed to the elected officials, advocates, leaders, and citizens who shared in the fight to push for such an achievement. With such ascendancy one must realize that the fight is still not over. We must keep the movement going. As always, remember that until we achieve full equality that nobody really does have equality. You’re listening up with Joey Collins and as always, keep the party going!

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CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

TOULOUSE

600

RAMPART

500

BURGUNDY

400 ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

ROYAL

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300

classifieds

ESPLANADE

1800 19 FR M A R IG N Y

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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, HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807

Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000

body rubs

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

New Orleans, LA [504] BODY RUB & ESCORT: Charlie 504.430.7413 , Mikey 504.756.9443, 4 hands available, 24/7, in/out/hotels, pics at www.men4rentnow.com. Search by ID# 190508 [is111]

bookstores

RT PA M A R

Lafayette, LA [337] 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, 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, CuttersBar.BIZ THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340

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

groceries/delis

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

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

cable shows

hair salons

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

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

casinos

FI EL D S

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

antiques

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

New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is0211]

circuit/events March 4-8, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 24, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 26-30, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 31-Sept. 5, 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 Oct. 27-30, Halloween 28, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 29, 2011-Jan. 3, 2012, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM

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

counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, M.Ed., Counseling &

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.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. HOTEL LE MARAIS, 717 Conti St., New

Orleans, LA, 800.535.9111 or visit NewOrleansHotelCollection.COM, is the newest boutique hotel property in the French Quarter. This sleek, contemporary hotel offers high level service, a “happening” bar, delightful amenities and an inclusive concept that avoids a “nickel and dime” mentality. It features heated saltwater courtyard pool, complimentary daily newspaper, complimentary Wi Fi in all areas and all rooms, complimentary extended continental breakfast, complimentary fitness center, complimentary business center, and complimentary welcome drink. MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. [0111] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. E-mail us at reservations@bpmhotels.com. One of several historic New Orleans homes and cottages that have been lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms, spacious multibedroom suites, luxury townhouses and cottages. Adjacent to the French Quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. 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 [is26/11]

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

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] 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 Bou-

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levard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org 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 SPRING SEASON BEGINS AFTER MARDI GRAS. Recruitment day for the NOLA Softball League is February 13, 2011. All skill levels welcome, including beginners. Visit nolasoftball.com for more information. THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 Until It Is OVER, Inc., Executive Director Don S. Evans, Sr., 5837 De Bore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70126, Phone 504 722 1694, Fax 504 286 5784 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 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

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The Decadence Shoppe (coffehouse, bakery, cafe), 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.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] BOURBON-STRIP TEASE, 205 Bourbon St., 70130; 581.6633, bourbontease.com THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 711 St. Peter [French Quarter], 525.4372; 5055 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] STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ, Toulouse Street Dock, 568.1401, SteamboatNatchez.COM

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] 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

Ga y M a r d i Gr a s .COM

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mobile

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B-Bob’s studs Jerry & Joey

Brenda & Corey hanging by the fireplace @ B-Bob’s Bob gets a paddling from Santa

Regine Phillips, Santa & Bob Judy & Judson together as one Miss Robyn Michaels "Nutcracker" Christmas performance @ B-Bob’s Santa Jerry with the fabulous cast of B-Bob’s, Miss Cie, Venus Shante’ Da Viss & Regine Phillips

B-Bob’s diva Venus with manager Bob Boys hanging out during B-Bob’s Christmas Party B-Bob’s Showgirls with Santa Jerry

It was quite a large turnout for the elaborate buffet cooked by owner Jerry Ehlen for B-Bob’s Christmas Party

B-Bob’s bartender Leon hanging out with his buddy

Venus Shante’ Da Viss & doorman Scotty @ B-Bob’s

Manager Bob’s mom stopped by to see Santa

Santa & a very timid Jason

Al, Regine Phillips, Rick, Santa & Don enjoy the B-Bob’s Christmas Party

Regine Phillips gets Santa's paddle for being a bad girl while leaning on Wendy for support

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Mobile Icon Venus Shante’ Da Viss works it out to a packed crowd on College Night @ B-Bob’s

Santa’s Sleigh Spotted in Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John

Regine Phillips, Bob, Santa Jerry & Miss Cie

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c'est bon by The Susan Lucci's: Rip & Marsha Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore

his year we chose Biltmore Estate, the home of George Vanderbilt, as our annual holiday getaway from December 9-12. We decided to experience Biltmore’s tradition of warm, gracious hospitality as a guest at the Inn on Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. It boasted luxurious rooms, flawless service, fine dining, exquisite spa services, marvelous mountain views, a relaxing veranda, afternoon tea in the library, concierges eager to assist you, and carefree transportation around the estate. We chose the Candlelight Christmas Evenings Package which was available November 12, 2010–January 1, 2011. The package included: guest room accommodations, Chef’s breakfast buffet daily in The Dining Room, estate daytime admission valid for the length of stay, Daytime Audio Guide to Biltmore House, admission to Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore House, a Biltmore Christmas ornament, valet parking at the inn, and complimentary estate shuttle service. For us the rooms and service were the best we've ever had at a major hotel in our travels to Europe and in the United States. The Dining Room and Library Lounge were both excellent choices for our culinary desires. The shuttle whisked us off to Antler Village and Winery, Biltmore House, and the other attractions on the estate. You definitely could rejuvenate your spirit at the four-star Asheville inn surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is the only accommodations on Biltmore’s 8,000-acre estate, and truly the only lodging of its kind in Asheville. According to it's history, "Building Biltmore was, at the time, one of the largest undertakings in the history of American residential architecture and the results were astounding. Over a six-year period, an entire community of craftsmen worked to build the country’s premier home. The estate boasted its own brick factory, woodworking shop, and a three-mile railway spur for transporting materials to the site. The celebrated architect Richard Morris Hunt modeled the house on three châteaux built in 16th-century France. It would feature 4 acres of floor space, 250 rooms, 34 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. The basement alone would house a swimming pool, gymnasium and changing rooms, bowling alley, servants’ quarters, kitchens, and more. The grounds of the 125,000-acre estate were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the creator of New York’s Central Park and the father of American landscape architecture. He not only developed acres of gardens and parkland, but in his efforts to protect the environment and reclaim over-farmed land, Olmsted established America’s first managed forest. George Vanderbilt officially opened the home to friends and family on Christmas Eve in 1895. He had created a country

retreat where he could pursue his passion for art, literature, and horticulture. After marrying the American Edith Stuyvesant Dresser (1873–1958) in Paris during the summer of 1898, George and his new bride came to live at the estate. Their only child, Cornelia (1900–1976), was born and grew up at Biltmore." A Word From Bill Cecil: "Welcome and thank you for your interest in Biltmore. What began in 1895 as my greatgrandfather’s estate continues to be an amazing experience for today’s visitors. At its core, Biltmore will always have the natural beauty of the mountains as well as the majestic house and gardens to inspire us and allow us to escape from the every day. Biltmore is still family-owned, and we are passionate about our mission of preservation through self-sufficiency, a philosophy embraced before the first stone was ever put in place. We remain self-sustaining through innovation, creative thinking, and listening to our guests who continue to tell us they want more ways to connect with Biltmore. Wine was our first foray into offering a taste of Biltmore. Now, you can experience life as a Vanderbilt guest at our Inn on Biltmore Estate. You can also inspire your own surroundings with a line of home furnishings, decorative accessories, home building products, and live plants. And so, full circle, we’re all about home, welcoming and celebrating family and friends, and extending the spirit of Biltmore beyond our 8,000 acres. It was true in 1895 and it remains true today. Sincerely, Bill Cecil, President & CEO The Biltmore Company" For more information, visit Biltmore.COM.

Christmas Eve in the Quarter

ince we were having Christmas dinner with friends on Christmas Day, we decided to have our Christmas meal on Christmas Eve for lunch. We tried out a new preparation for our baked picnic ham. Recently, we saw several recipes which removed the thick skin on the top of the ham. Using our kitchen shears, we removed the skin and some of the fat. Then we scored the remaining fat in a diamond shape placing the ham on a rack in the oven roaster. After mixing a diet coke, cup of water with both ground cloves and all spice, we basted the ham, placing the remainder in the roaster. After baking it for two hours covered and basting it every half hour, we topped it with sliced pineapple and cherries, adding a glaze of Splenda brown sugar, yellow mustard, Creole mustard, ground cloves, all spice and diet coke. We baked it for an additional 45 minutes uncovered. It turned out to be the best ham we’ve ever had. The flavoring permeated throughout making it both juicy and delicious. The rest of our lunch included oyster cornbread dressing,

green peas and pearl onions, diced potatoes with green onions, and white trash rolls (brown and serve). After a few hours of work we started out our short evening with a stop at the Bourbon Pub finding Chris behind the bar. It was a great stop since we were sitting right next to Monica of Salon D’Malta fame. It gave us a chance to visit since we hadn’t seen Monica out socially in some time. From there it was off to Le Roundup to celebrate the season with the club’s traditional Christmas Eve Dinner. Kelton was slinging cocktails while owner Colette, manager Candise, Tony and Deanna were serving up the traditional holiday feast. Our final destination for an early nightcap was Double Play where we found John behind the bar. Since we had an early start in the morning, we had John phone us a cab and headed home to Bourbon Street.

Christmas at the R-M Estate, Belle Oaks

e know what you’re thinking ...NO, it’s not for RipMarsha, it’s for Reed-Masters. Yes, we traveled to the sprawling Reed-Masters Estate, Belle Oaks, in Covington, Louisiana, for Christmas dinner at the beautiful antebellum style 21room mansion of Darwin Reed and Opal Masters situated on four acres. After receiving directions we crossed the Causeway and drove up to and through one of the two ornate iron gates entering the property stopping in the circular drive. The white pillar mansion was a site to behold and appeared to be a replica of Rosedown Plantation in St. Francisville. We would learn that it was indeed modeled after Rosedown, but this mansion boasts some 5,800 square feet in living space with three fireplaces, plus another 3,500 square feet in galleries, verandas and porches, and a two-car garage on each side of the home. Entering into the grand hallway with a sweeping circular staircase to the balcony overlooking the entrance, you could see the formal parlour to the right and dining room to the left. There were huge antebellum antiques, artworks, paintings, crystal, silver, and numerous collectibles. From the hallway you entered into a huge room stretching across the entire back side of the home which included a comfy den and great kitchen. This area overlooked the back gallery from which you could see the barn (which includes Opal’s shop) and guest house. Of course this is not any ordinary guest house. It is actually the twostory, 8-room home that was Darwin and Opal’s, which was moved further back on the property to make way for the current mansion. Darwin gave us the tour of the house and once finished on the first floor, he opened double doors in the kitchen, and offered to take us to the second level in their elevator. We declined, deciding to ascend on the sweeping staircase landing in the upper hallway, also complete with fascinating pieces including the magnificent silver saddles and numerous trophy’s from the days when showing horses was the order of the day. On this floor, one entire side was the master suite complete with bedroom and bath and entrance to the second floor balconies. The other side had the guest bedroom and bath, and the couple’s office all beautifully furnished in

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more extraordinary antiques. As rumor has it, the third floor houses Opal’s closet complete with rotating electrical racks bringing her the gowns of her choice right to her fingertips, while her collection of shoes spun around in there individual places much like a twirling showcase of jewelry at Neiman Marcus. Drinks and appetizers were offered including spinach artichoke dip, cream cheese with both bbq sauce and pepper jelly, assorted crackers and nuts in the den/kitchen. After mingling and chatting with the other eight guest: John and Robert, Barry and Cathy, Jim and Deja, Patti and Mike, and our hosts, we were summoned to the dining room for a sit down Christmas dinner for twelve. There were place cards, of course, and we were directed to our seats. Can’t imagine that the dinner table at Buckingham Palace could have been set any more ornate than the one here, set by King Cake Queen Opal herself. We began our culinary journey with Shrimp Remoulade prepared by guest Mike. It was followed by numerous selections including: Patti’s cous cous salad with veggies, dried berries and nuts; Opal’s oven roasted 22 lb. turkey and green bean casserole; along with Darwin’s turkey gravy, whole cranberry sauce, Cajun rice dressing, shrimp stuffing, and yeast rolls; and John’s shrimp mirliton casserole. The desserts were plentiful as well with John’s home made divinity fudge, Robert’s home made pecan pie and coconut pie, Samantha’s red velvet cheese cake courtesy of us, and Rouse’s king cake. After a delightful afternoon, it was time to head back to the city. An unexpected gift, a magnificent sunset over Lake Pontchartrain, made the day even more memorable.

Christmas Night on Bourbon Street

nce we arrived back home from Covington, we decided to have cocktails at Cafe Lafitte in Exile, since as a couple of our neighbors refer to us as, "lounge people". The Neighborhood Bar of the Year was packed as patrons poured in from their visits with family to unwind and reconnect. Both manager Jerry and bartender Shawn were behind the bar. In addition to cocktails, there was a buffet of delights for those that were ready for even more food. A short walk through the windy and cold evening brought us to Oz which had just opened at 6. Joe was busy getting things ready behind the bar while manager Glenn was warming up. After serving us our cocktails we got a chance to visit with our dear friend Jim, finding out that today, December 25 was actually his birthday. So, of course, we had to have a round with him for a b-day toast. Most of you will remember Jim due to his generosity helping raise 1.3 million dollars for charity aboard The City of New Orleans Rail Car. An unexpected surprise was to run into Devin Black. He has been doing an extraordinary job taking photos for Ambush around the city. It was really the first time we got a chance to actually spend some time with him. This holiday has been extremely difficult for him since he just lost him mom. But he’s a real trouper! Make sure and smile, and he might just take your picture!

The Reed-Masters Mansion Formal Palour

The Library

Darwin Reed & Mike Moreau (Opal Masters) in their elevator Snowing @ Biltmore

Vanderbilt’s 1913 Stevens-Duryea Model “C-6”

The Dining Room

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The Master Suite

Antler Village & Winery

The Grand Hallway

Biltmore House seen from the lagoon

Luxury @ Inn on Biltmore

One of a pair of silver saddles

Vanity in the Guest Suite The Den

Tapestry Gallery

George Vanderbilt’s Bedroom

The Dining Room @ Inn on Biltmore

A fabulous piece in the Grand Hallway

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Christmas @ The Reed-Masters Estate, Belle Oaks ~ Covington, Louisiana ~ Photos by Ambush

The Biltmore Estate ~ Asheville, North Carolina

Fall @ Biltmore

Graham Studio One’s Larry Graham & KCQ XVII Mike (Opal Masters)

Yes, INDEED! ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

KCQ XVI Tami, KCQ XVIII-Elect Rona & Amon-Ra’s Jay

Jeff, Guadaloupe, Trenton & Billy partying it up @ Cutter’s during the holidays

Melissa & friends in to see Marcy Marcelle’s “Christmas in Chalmette” show @ JohnPaul’s

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Amon-Ra’s Jerry & Queenateenas’ Co-Captain Rip Amon-Ra Captain Barry, Leonard, Jim & Kevin

Cathy Fox & Antoinette Ella Chardonnay in “A Christmas Catastrophe” @ JohnPaul’s raising $1,040 for St. Anna's Food Bank

Rickey & Keno @ Marcy Marcelle’s “Christmas in Chalmette” show

Lords of Leather’s Gary & Amon-Ra’s Gizelle

Queenateenas’ Co-Captain Marsha & Amon-Ra’s Paul

Cadillac DeVille & Ms. Jenkins in “A Christmas Catastrophe”

Mr. Louisiana Leather Troy & Wayne @ “A Christmas Catastrophe” Amon-Ra’s Leonard, David, Ronnie & Chris Wilhemina & Jeff

Comedian Jeff B with St. Anna’s Food Bank Pastor, Father Terry, in “A Christmas Catastrophe”

”Queen of Trash” Antoinette Ella Chardonnay in “A Christmas Catastrophe”

JDiT’s Jerry & Nate

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Amon-Ra’s Jerry & Kenny

King Cake Queen Royalty Club Get-Together ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Larry Graham, Tony Leggio

Aunt Ida & Bruce @ Armenius’ holiday show @ JohnPaul’s

The Gay Mafia: Marvin, Nick, Tony & James @ their Galatoire’s holiday luncheon

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Pensacola’s Chris & Frank pop in to Oz

Belle Reve staff celebrate @ holiday party

”Spamalot” cast members in their cabaret @ Oz

”Spamalot’s” Adam Grabau & John Garry in their cabaret @ Oz

Jeffrey celebrating his birthday with Ryan, Paul, Ray & Nathan @ 700 Club Vicki is flanked by the wonderful staff @ Belle Reve holiday party

Curt welcomes you to Rawhide

Ivy, Laura & Brett @ Tales of the Toddy Party @ Hotel Monteleone

Stephen Gioe, Tommy Elias & Jeffrey Mayeux @ Oz

Jake & Stephen behind the bar @ Good Friends ”Spamalot’s” Matt Ban in their cabaret @ Oz

Marsha with KCQ-Elect Rona Conners & Opal following Rona’s Larry Graham photo shoot

Nolan, Brad & Tony @ Oz

Rikki Redd, Monique Michaels, Ashley Steele, Jessica Vanderhurst & Opal Vanderhurst @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Santa Lance behind the bar @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

The ladies from Miss Charming with Tales of the Cocktail’s Michelle

The chorus girls from “Spamalot” sing a holiday tune in their cabaret @ Oz

The entire male cast members from “Spamalot” in their special cabaret @ Oz

38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

Tony accepting his head peasant award from “Spamalot’s” Caroline Bowman, The Lady in the Lake

You Can’t Make This Up! ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin Black, Tony Leggio

The Ambush Gang: Rip, Devin & Marsha @ Oz

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40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J an. 4-17, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM