Ambush magazine volume 29 issue 04 by Ambush Publishing

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 15-28, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

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he presentation of King and Queen Amon-Ra XLVI Jerry Scavo (above) and Tami Tarmac (below) as Legends of History: Marc Anthony and Cleopatra brought the 46th Krewe of Amon-Ra Ball to a climax celebrating Myths and Legends February 5 at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette, Louisiana.

celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

ing and Queen Mwindo XIII Reuben Filmore III (above) and Dennis Walton II (right) were presented as Reality Redux: The King and Queen of Chess at the 13th Krewe of Mwindo Ball: Indulge in Madness January 29 at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette, Louisiana.

adical Faeries 22nd Brigid Ball celebrated Legends of the Wood: A Faerie Ball. Hosted at JohnPaul's in New Orleans February 2, the Royal Court presented included Lady in Waiting Myron, Empress XXII Clay and Page of Honor Rebecca Rae. The Panorama Jazz Band played for the festivities.

rewe of Apollo Baton Rouge celebrated its 30th anniversary January 29 with the staging of Apollo Revealed — Inspirations of the Bal Masque presenting King and Queen Apollo XXX Bobby Suchman (left) and Effie Marie (above). A record 35 krewe members were in major costume with some 1,800-plus guests in attendance.

4 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 15-28, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM

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

Oz & Bud Light Present 47th Annual Bourbon Street Awards: The Ultimate Costume Contest

he 47th Annual Bourbon Street Awards Show, the ultimate costume contest, is set for Mardi Gras Day, March 8 at 12noon. In 2009, for the first time in 23 years, the contest actually took place back on Bourbon Street. Since 2002, Oz New Orleans has presented the contest on St. Ann at Bourbon. 2009 saw the contest outside Oz on Bourbon Street down from Ambush Headquarters at 828 Bourbon. The awards were previously held outside of Cafe Lafitte in Exile on Boubon until 1985 when it was moved to the corner of Burgundy and St. Ann outside of Rawhide in 1986. Johnny Chisholm and Oz New Orleans, and Bud Light brings us this fantastic contest. Award categories include: Best Drag, Best Leather, Best Group, and Best of Show with 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in each category. A $500 cash prize goes to the grandest award, Best Overall Costume. Celebrity emcees will once again feature the talents of mega circuit star Bianca Del Rio and Oz’s own Blanche Debris. The parade of costumes will originate down Bourbon at Dumaine passing both Cafe Lafitte in Exile and Clover Grill, the original site of the awards, heading past Ambush Headquarters towards Oz at 800 Bourbon. The Bourbon Street Awards, well into its fourth decade, has hosted some of the most exciting and extravagant Mardi Gras costumes ever seen.. The 47th Annual Bourbon Street Awards will be “The Best Free Show of Mardi Gras.”

Carnival Season in Full Swing

ith four balls already under the belt, the 2011 Gay Mardi Gras schedule explodes onto the scene with even more Carnival balls, coronations, parades and block parties in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Mobile and Pensacola. And don't forget the culmination of

inside

the season with the 47th Bourbon Street Awards Costume Contest and 24th Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss on Fat Tuesday, March 8th direct from World famous Bourbon Street. You can keep up with all of the action at www.GayMardiGras.COM. The remaining schedule includes: Saturday, February 19th... ~6:30pm, Krewe du Vieux: 25 Years Wasted, New Orleans ~8-10pm, 18th King Cake Queen Coronation of Rona Conners as The Chrysanthemum Queen, by invitation only, New Orleans ~9pm, Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette, Bal Masque XXXV: Apollo’s Body Art, Cajundome Convention Center, Lafayette Friday, February 25th... ~7pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque VIII, Sugar Mill, 1101 Convention Center Blvd., New Orleans Saturday, February 26th... ~7pm, 8th People of Substance (POS) Ball, Westwego Civic Center, 1220 Avenue H, Westwego Friday, March 4th... ~9pm-12midnight, Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Extravaganza XII, New Orleans ~10pm-2am, Lords of Leather present Night of the Black Mask: The South’s Oldest Leather Block Party, Phoenix/Eagle, Elysian Fields @ N. Rampart, New Orleans Saturday, March 5th... ~12noon, Annual Spanish Town

Parade, 5th & Spanish Town Road, Baton Rouge ~8pm, Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLIII, New Orleans Sunday, March 6th... ~8pm, Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXVIII, St. Bernard Civic Center, New Orleans MARDI GRAS (Fat Tuesday), March 8th... ~12noon, 47th Annual Bourbon Street Awards, Oz, Corner of St. Ann at 800 Bourbon St. ~2pm - 24th Annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss led by King Cake Queen XVIII Rona Conners, Ambush Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.

Exhibit Celebrating Carnival Season Reopens Feb. 17

ust in time for Mardi Gras, the Louisiana State Museum’s crowd-pleasing exhibition It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana reopens to the public February 17 at the Presbytere on Jackson Square. The Carnival exhibition temporarily closed last summer for minor renovations and to allow installation of the $7.5 million permanent exhibition Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond. “It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana presents the authentic history of the celebration from colonial times to the present, while capturing all the fun and merriment,” Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne said. “We’re delighted to bring back this wonderful show for visitors and locals alike.”

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joan rivers classifieds acadiana paparazzi/lafayette acadiana happens/lafayette the pink pastor under the gaydar ambush paparazzi apollo baton rouge paparazzi

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Krewe du VieuX: 25 Years Wasted! Rolls Feb. 19

he 2011 Krewe du VieuX Parade is set for Saturday, February 19, 6:30pm, and the krewe will roll and stumble through the Marigny Triangle and the Lower French Quarter. This year’s theme is [continued on 10]

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

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Giant Mardi Gras Issue out March 1st DEADLINE: Tues., Feb. 22nd

celebrazzi trodding the boards spotlight: gary vandeventer chop chop/nola restaurant guide amon-ra ball paparazzi ambush paparazzi commentary radical faeries ball paparazzi

The Presbytere is open daily (except Mondays and major holidays) from 10am to 4:30pm. Admission is $6 for adults (children under 12 free) and includes the exhibit, Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

1923 Rex Tunic On display at the Presbytere are nearly 1,000 rare artifacts: elaborate costumes and gowns, jewelry, krewe favors and lavishly printed materials such as ball invitations, dance cards, and parade posters. Museum staff recently restored a bejeweled 1923 Krewe of Rex tunic that was added to the exhibit.

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. ©1982-2011, 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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25 Years Wasted! which will be led by King Don Marshall, Jazz and Heritage Festival and Foundation Executive Director. The Krewe du Vieux’s seventeen subkrewes will each present their own interpretations of the theme. Subkrewes include the Krewe of C.R.U.D.E., Krewe of Space Age Love, Krewe of Underwear, Seeds of Decline, Krewe of Mama Roux, Krewe of L.E.W.D., Krewe of Drips and Discharges, Krewe of K.A.O.S., Knights of Mondu, T.O.K.I.N., Krewe Rue Bourbon, Krewe de C.R.A.P.S.,Krewe of PAN, Mystic Krewe of Spermes, Mystic Krewe of Comatose, Mystic Krewe of Inane, and Krewe du Mishigas. Also marching will be many of the city’s top brass bands. Showcasing the local brass band talent is one of many Krewe du VieuX traditions not eligible for coverage under the health care reform bill. The Krewe du VieuX is a New Orleans Mardi Gras or Carnival krewe, originally and more fully known as the Krewe du VieuX Carre (“Vieux Carre” being another term for the city’s French Quarter). It is one of the earliest parades of the New Orleans Carnival calendar, and is noted for wild satirical and adult themes, as well as for showcasing some of the best Brass and Jazz Bands in New Orleans. For additional information visit KreweDuVieuX.ORG.

Lords of Leather 70s Night Feb. 20

he Lords of Leather travel back in time for “A 70s Night At The Tubs” fundraiser sponsored by The Phoenix Bar at The New Orleans Eagle, 941 Elysian Fields, on Sunday, February 20th. And no, that doesn’t mean it’s senior citizens night! The requested donation for admission is $10 and free well drinks and domestic beer will flow from 9pm to midnight. In keeping with the spirit of the event, vintage videos will play and a clothes check will be provided for attendees wearing towels; you can bring your own or get one from The Lords. A featured highlight of the evening is the “So You Think You Can Do Porn” contest at 11pm. Contestants will have the opportunity to “rise” to the occasion and prove to the audience they have what it takes to be the next top porn star, or at least locally! The winner will receive a still photo shoot with The Men Of Studio Cody, which provides adult gay video for a variety of clients based in the United States and internationally and has recently moved its base of operations to New Orleans. Proceeds from the event go to benefit the Lords of Leather in the presentation of their annual Mardi Gras ball. Bal Masque XXVIII Circuit will take place on Sunday, March 6 at the

Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette, LA. Tickets for the ball will be available during the fundraiser in addition to being available online. For more information on “A 70s Night At The Tubs” or Bal Masque XXVIII visit www.lordsofleather.com.

Eighth Ambie Awards Feb. 21

he Eighth Annual Ambie Awards for Excellence in Theater will be presented at Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré on Monday, February 21. Bar service will begin at 6:30pm, doors open at 7pm, and the ceremony will begin at 7:30pm. There is a $20 suggested donation ($5 for nominees/performers/presenters), more if you’re feeling generous— monies raised will benefit NOCCA High School’s Theater Department (though proceeds from the bar will go to Le Petit). No credit cards but cash and checks are fine. The evening will feature musical numbers from many of the nominated shows including Into the Woods, The Producers, The Threepenny Opera, Evita, Hairspray, The Wiz and Lisa Sings Lee. The Ambies is the season’s most inclusive award presentation as we recognize outstanding work in Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Tammany Parishes, as well as the area’s universities, high schools and youth theater. In addition to the major categories, whose nominees were listed previously, we shall continue the tradition of acknowledging some special achievements that don’t fall into any of the standard categories with our tonguein-cheek Glammie Awards. Some of the categories to be presented are Most Tattooed Cast, Outstanding Performance in a One Act Play, Cheesiest Special Effects, Best Abs, Nastiest InLaws, Best Gunfight, Best Performance by Non-Living Creatures, Outstanding Bartop Dancer, Filthiest Mouth and many more. Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré is located at 616 St. Peter in the Quarter. Seating will be unreserved, so we advise you to get there in a timely manner. Attire? Tennis to tuxedo, but dressy casual is fine. Parking? The Omni Royal offers 3½ hours for $6 with validation. There are also lots at Jackson Brewery and the French Market.

New Silk Dress Productions presents Three Tall Women through Feb. 26

en Pauley directs Mary Pauley, Jane Catalanello McNulty, Jennifer Growden, and Warren J. Usey in Edward Albee’s Three Tall Women, the first offering of Silk Dress Productions’

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eyed man; his infidelities and her retaliatory affair; and her cold if dutiful son. THE ALBEE PROJECT in association A force unto the end, A concludes that with Four Humours Theater. The show life’s happiest moment is when you can will be presented at The Shadowbox finally say you are finished. Theatre, 2400 St. Claude, at St. Roch, Compelling and heartrending, on Thursdays-Saturdays, through FebThree Tall Women is “a dazzler...worthy of mention in the same breath as Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and A Delicate Balance” (Wall Street Journal). “Best Plays” called this winner of the 1994 Pulitzer Prize a “welcome showcase for actresses...a play not of plot but of nuance, Albee being more interested in how time and experience change our voices.” Jane Catalanello McNulty, Mary Pauley, Albee’s play - much more Jennifer Growden in Three Tall Women than just an attempt to come to terms with the memory of ruary 26. All performances are at 8pm. his mother, who never accepted his In a stylish bedroom, an enterpris- homosexuality - has as its strongest ing young lawyer, known only as C, has theme the way an individual’s perspecbeen sent to sort out the finances of an tive on aging changes as he or she gets elderly client, A, who is under the care older. By depicting a woman at three of a middle-aged nurse, the cynical B. different stages of her life, Albee clevMore than money gets examined as erly juxtaposes very different perspecthe manipulative and imperious old tives, with intrigue and bitter humor. woman’s life is laid out in all its charmTickets are $15 general admising and vicious glory. A soon has a sion, $12 seniors and students w/ID. stroke and is put to bed; when her look- Contact us through our website alike enters, it becomes clear that A, B, www.silkdressproductions.com, by and C are the same woman at different email at stages of life. The threesome discuss silkdressproductions@gmail.com or her calculated marriage to a tiny, one- 504.931.8297. All performances include appetizers from The Gris Gris Lab/Food Justice. THE ALBEE PROJECT, as a series, looks past easy labels to discover the humanity, and divinity, within difficult personalities. Watch for further exploration with Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? in May, and Tiny Alice in October.

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Exhibits at Longue Vue

ongue Vue House and Gardens, which is accredited by the AAM, features exhibits that further its mission to preserve and use the historical and artistic legacy of Longue Vue and its creators to educate and inspire people to pursue beauty and civic responsibility in their lives. All That Glitters: Carnival Jewelry from the Golden Age runs through March 13. All That Glitters, a fabulous treasure-trove of Carnival jewelry from the Golden Age, the dazzling period from the late 19th century to 1930, runs through March 13. This glittering exhibit, which includes Rex crowns, scepters, and ducal badges, Comus cups, and numerous krewe and court favors, is guest curated by Henri Schindler, Carnival historian and designer. Untitled #6209 by Eric Dallimore closes on February 28. Stroll the grounds of Longue Vue House and Gardens to view artist Eric Dallimore’s sculpture, Untitled #6209. The piece,

crafted largely of found wood, is featured on the East Lawn as part of a project commissioned by the Arts Council of New Orleans with support from the Joan Mitchell Foundation. View both exhibits with paid admission to Longue Vue. Contact Longue Vue at 504.488.5488 or info@longuevue.com for more information.

Harrah's Presents MC Hammer for One Show Only Feb. 25

arrah’s New Orleans is proud to present platinum recording artist MC Hammer for one show only at Harrah’s Theatre, Friday, Feb. 25 at 10pm. Hammer is best known for his hit songs “U Can’t Touch This” and “2 Legit 2 Quit,” along with his flashy dance moves and trademark Hammer pants. Hammer’s rise to fame began with the release of his 1987 album Feel My Power. The album gained attention of recording moguls at Capital Records which contracted Hammer a reported record-breaking advance for a rap artists at that time. Hammer’s first album after under his new contract, Let’s Get it Started, sold more than three million copies and his 1990’s follow-up album, Please Hammer, Don’t Hurt ‘Em, sold more than 20 million copies worldwide. His career as a world-class entertainer is validated by a number of awards, including Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, The People’s Choice Award, Image Award, the prestigious Billboard “Diamond Award” and The International Album of the Year award. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000. Things get jazzy every Thursday from 6 – 9pm at the live Jazz Happy Hours inside Harrah’s Masquerade. This free and open to the public event features some of the best local jazz New Orleans has to offer including Tonya Boyd-Cannon on February 3, BRW on February 10, Real Love on February 17 and Gina Brown & Anutha Level on February 24. More information about entertainment at Harrah’s New Orleans is available at www.harrahsneworleans.com.

Barkus XIX: A Broadway Tail Feb. 27

he Krewe of Barkus hits the streets Sunday, February 27, as A BROADWAY TAIL! Barkus Brings Down The House. Join in the fun near Armstrong Park and Celebrate 19 years of tailwagging! Parade Pawty at Orleans and N. Rampart runs 10:30am-till with music, food, drink, hilarious fun and the Costume Promenade of Royal Court. Barkus Parade rolls promptly at 2pm (starts at Orleans and N. Rampart and proceeds thru the French Quarter) All pets must be registered. Registration is available online at Barkus.ORG or by fax 504.255.0239. Download Barkus 2011 Registration Form for all information needed. For more information email info@barkus.org.The parade benefits many charities. The Mystic Krewe of Barkus is a non-profit organization founded by Wood Enterprises.

Orpheus Celebrity Monarch Jennifer Coolidge to Appear for Trevor Project Brunch Benefit at Bourbon Pub & Parade

n Monday, March 7th, Bour bon Pub owner Sandy Sachs will host a Celebrity Brunch benefiting The Trevor Project with Krewe of Orpheus Celebrity Monarch Jennifer Coolidge from 11am1pm, prior to the Krewe of Orpheus Mardi Gras 2011 Parade that afternoon. Benefit brunch tickets ($35.00) are available online at www.thetrevorproject.org and the door; VIP tickets ($50.00) include a meet & greet and photo opportunity with Coolidge and just added dance music legend Taylor Dayne. Catering will be provided courtesy of Diamond Jacks Casinos. Proceeds benefit The Trevor Project. Said Sachs, “I’m very excited to not only be hosting Trevor’s benefit brunch at the Bourbon Pub & Parade, but also to be working with all the great

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the "official" dish ...from 12 community organizations that make the city a better place.”

Jennifer Coolidge The Trevor Project is determined to end suicide among LGBTQ youth by providing life-saving and life-affirming resources including a nationwide 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline, a digital community and advocacy/educational programs that create a safe, supportive and positive environment for everyone. Said Trevor Executive Director Charles Robbins, “We are honored to be a beneficiary of this event and look forward to expanding our visibility in the South which will support our efforts to save young lives.” Citywide community sponsors of the Bourbon Pub’s Trevor Project benefit include: Krewe of Orpheus; Human Rights Campaign; NO/AIDS Task Force; PFLAG (New Orleans); MardiGras.com; NOLA.com; Project Lazarus; Ambush Magazine and the LGBT Community Center. All of this is part of a busy week’s schedule, celebrating one of the world’s most incredible parties at the Bourbon Pub & Parade which will rock non-stop from Thursday, all the way through Fat Tuesday with superstar DJs, dancers and spectacular entertainment.

Taylor Dayne

VIP Weekend Passes are $100 for: VIP entrance: Thursday through Tuesday; Welcome Cocktail; VIP Open Bar Cocktail Party Friday Night (911pm); Complimentary Sunday Mimo-

sas (10am-12noon, upstairs at Parade); Balcony Access on Fat Tuesday and VIP Gift Bag. $4 charge added to online purchase. www.bourbonpub.com.

Weekend Party Passes and VIP Party passes are on sale now. (Trevor benefit NOT included). Regular Weekend Passes are $60 and include: entrance to Pub events Thursday through Sunday; Welcome Cocktail; and complimentary Sunday Mimosas (10am12noon).

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trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Cat’s-Paw at the Shadowbox Theater through Feb. 18

uicide bombers, urban terrorism, ecological despoliation, manipulation of the media all come into play in William Mastrosimone’s Cat’sPaw. Sound familiar? Perhaps. But consider that this drama was written in 1986. Might everything old be new again? Or do some things, sadly, never go out of fashion? In Cat’s-Paw, David Darling (Michael Harkins), a low level EPA official, has

been kidnapped by The People’s Guard (TPG), a group using terrorist tactics to advance their noble concerns about the environment. After 20+ days in confinement, Darling’s plight is no longer headline news. Hoping to gain front page status again, Victor (Michael Aaron Santos), the TPG’s leader, has negotiated for TV news reporter Jessica Lyons (Ashley

Michael Harkins, Michael Aaron Santos & Ashley Ricord in Cat’s-Paw Ricord) to meet him in the TPG’s hideout for an exclusive interview. With Darling and Cathy (Rebecca Laborde), a TPG lieutenant, as pawns, Victor and Lyons play a cat-and-mouse game as each wants to control the message to be broadcast. As in his best known play Extremities, Mastrosimone knows how to create dramatic situations; one’s attention never flags throughout the taut give-and-take. Yet too much of Cat’s-Paw feels manufactured—coincidences strain credulity, details don’t add up, some of the plot’s contrivances seem piled on while others can be seen coming from miles away. Mark Routhier’s assured direction, however, makes this mishigas almost persuasive. Under Routhier’s extremely well-paced, smooth as silk guidance, InSideOut Productions’ Cat’s-Paw is not unlike a roller coaster ride that starts out slowly and accelerates into a rush of in-the-moment excitement that one’s brain thinks through logically only afterwards. Despite being a tad too young for Jessica, Ricord radiates a sublime naturalness as a journalist who’s been around; she even reminded me of a broadcaster friend of mine. Ricord’s Jessica was tough, for sure, but also capable of revealing a not-yet-hardened heart; especially wonderful is the way she keeps you from knowing whether she’s bluffing or not. Though one wishes he was given more to do, Harkins is very good as an average Joe bureaucrat who finds himself in an untenable position, uncomfortably forced to explain past actions that he may have been only partly responsible for. Santos, as usual, gives a confident performance, allowing Victor’s messianic streak to emerge subtly and not being afraid to reveal that this would-be dogooder might just be a smooth-talking coward. But at times Santos’ Victor comes off as a little too rational; one could imagine him allowing his screws to be a bit looser, perhaps adding a touch of Tucson’s Jared Loughner to the characterization. Still, one can’t help but enjoy a baddie who negotiates over the nomenclature by which he’ll be described preferring “low level proxy guerilla warfare” to “terrorism.” Laborde is emotionally transparent and does her best but is saddled with the most ridiculous role. One wishes Mastrosimone had invested his putative terrorists with as great a depth of characterization as he did this play’s reporter and bureaucrat or the touching couple in his more successful The Woolgatherer, InSideOut’s Ambie Award-winning drama of 2006. Regardless of my reservations, Cat’s-Paw is an admirable and thought-provoking production; it’s clear that the InSideOut-ers have an affinity for Mastrosimone. If only the playwright had captured more of the moral, emotional, and political complexities that one can find by turning on the TV these days... [continued on 16]

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spotlight feature by Tony Leggio E-mail: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

Gary Vandeventer

his month our spotlight article focuses on someone who has a very interesting background. I met Gary Vandeventer a few years ago, but got to know him better when he became Lord King XXVI of the Lords of Leather in 2009. But that was just scratching the surface of this very multitalented individual. Every person has a story to tell and each person I have interviewed has been extremely fascinating. Gary is no exception to that rule. He was born in a small town in Central Illinois called Newman, which only had a population of 1,000. Growing up he had always had a keen interest in music and learned how to play the piano. He went to college at Illinois State University in Normal which is known for having some very famous alumni such as Gary Cole, Sean Hayes from Will and Grace, Judith Ivey, John Malkovich and Jane Lynch from Glee. So he was in good company. He then transferred to the University of Illinois in Champaign, where he majored in Musical Theatre. Originally he was studying to be an opera singer, even spending one summer of performance study in London, but decided to go into musical theatre because it was more fun. Opera singers don’t get to tap dance. One of the major characteristics about every person I have interviewed for

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I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change at the Teatro Wego! Theatre through Feb. 20

Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change celebrates dating, love, marriage, in-laws, having kids and growing old in a series of songs and sketches, though from a strictly middle class, heterosexual perspective. Act One focuses on courting and has the more fun material; Act Two shifts to weddings & beyond and, if less obviously comic, its insights are more pointed. Joe DiPietro’s book & lyrics don’t provide any earth-shattering observations but occasionally a surprise pops up like an avowal made by an unassuming, suburban divorcee that she “hates children [except her own]” or a clever vignette in which two busy, busy people go through a year and a half relationship on the first date. Looking back on my notes, I have the word “cute” written next to about a half dozen of the numbers. And indeed they are as a tough guy with no use for “women’s movies” begins to blubber as he watches the screen, or a trio involving “Waiting” as in a wife who waits for her husband to finish watching football, a husband who waits while his wife shops, and a lady waiting to use the women’s room (which really has nothing to do with love/romance). A little of this, however, goes a long way. Still, Andrew Crusse’s direction propels everything forward at a quick pace and Alicia Grubb’s choreography, if simple, works well. With their cast of four, they mine the material, shallow as

it may be, for all it’s worth. Matias Grau III, Katherine McClain, Wendy Miklovic and Cliff Thompson are all accomplished performers and if the women come off as just a bit stronger than the guys it could be because their material is slightly better, though Thompson is quite funny as a convict giving singles advice in a “Scared Straight to the Altar” skit. If the comedy could’ve been leavened with a little more heartfelt rue, compared with a previous version of ILY,YP,NC I saw, the musical strengths of this cast more than made up for it. Adam Alonso provided the appropriate costumes including an amusing collection of fashion faux pas dresses for the Always a Bridesmaid number. Jeffrey M. Davis’ revolving set ingeniously allows tables and beds to magically appear and transitions to go very smoothly. The mostly pink/orange hued lighting by Scott Sauber, usually a master of illumination, did not seem as sharp as it could be, however. Musical Director Jonne Dendinger gave her usual steadfast support though not even her talents could keep the songs from all sounding more or less alike; Jimmy Roberts’ music is the aural equivalent of vanilla. Accompanying Dendinger, a single violinist added a nice romantic touch to the show’s musical texture, though. ILY,YP,NC may be little more than well-crafted entertainment for the masses but despite a so-so review in The New York Times it went on to run for eight years amassing over 5,000 performances before closing as the 6th longest-running off-Broadway show. Those in need of a post-Valentine’s/ pre-Mardi Gras romantic pick-me-up should head to JPAS’ Westwego theater where it plays through February 20.

these articles is their courage to take chances. Moving from a small town to the larger cities of Normal, then Champaign was scary, but also very freeing. Gary was not the only gay person around. He really did not know what “out” was until he went to college. He just knew he loved musicals and did not like sports. No longer feeling like an outsider, he began his new life as a homosexual man. After he graduated school, he worked in Champaign at a printing company that specialized in doctors’ appointment books. Theatre was just a hobby at the time. His love for this sideline grew stronger, so he auditioned for summer stock at the Little Theatre on the Square in Sullivan, IL. This theatre was famous for having soap opera stars perform. Hunky John Wesley Shipp from Guiding Light and As The World Turns, who has always been a crush of mine since my college days, starred in the show Gary was in. He even borrowed his white speedos for a pool party. Lucky man! A producer there convinced him to get his equity card and join the actors’ union which he did. He even did a show with Nikki Goulet, the daughter of Robert. He then moved to Tampa, Florida and worked in the Golden Apple Dinner Theatre. He acted in shows and played piano, helping the musical director from time to time. Years later a new theatre opened up in St. Petersburg and he was offered the musical director/conductor position. He was in the pit for about 25 shows. A friend of his was the Assistant Conductor for the National Touring Show of Anything Goes with Mitzi Gaynor. He called Gary and told him he just got an offer to work with Robert Goulet in the Fantasticks. So Gary took over his spot and toured with Mitzi to many different cities. One of his other professional gigs was playing keyboard for the Phantom of the Opera tour. He came back to Tampa and met someone who he was with for four years. He wanted to settle down and receive a steady income with insurance benefits and the whole nine yards. He went to work for Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation in sales and acquisitions. They were bought by Chemical Bank and he lost his job. But his boss went to work for Norwest Mortgage, now Wells Fargo, and hired him. Gary relocated to Des Moines, Iowa where he stayed for 20 months. The only good thing he liked about Iowa was the Corn Haulers, which was a leather organization there. Leather was always an interest to him since college. BDSM was more his concentration which normally is accompanied by a leather look. While he was part of this organization, he won the Mr. Iowa Leather contest and competed in the International Mr. Leather Contest. He

was the first Mr. Iowa to place in the top 20. But the cold weather in Iowa was too much, so in 1998 he moved to Washington DC, where he still has a home and works. In 1994, Gary came to New Orleans over the Halloween weekend for a conference and met a bartender at the Phoenix who he started a relationship with. He met many people who are still his friends today and he knew this was a place he needed to be. He won Mr. DC Eagle in 2000 and returned to IML where he once again placed in the top 20. At the urging of the contest producer, he then entered the Mr. Drummer contest which he won. Drummer was a hardcore magazine of sexual outlaws. Unfortunately the year he won the contest, the magazine folded. Someday he hopes to see the pictures from the photo shoot that never got published in the magazine. As a title holder, he was asked to judge many leather contests, and in 2004 he judged Mr. Louisiana Leather. His partner today, Tim Lott was a contestant, and they have been together ever since. His goal was to move to New Orleans and after Katrina, the time was right and he bought property. He joined the Lords of Leather in 2000 as a Baron and now he is Captain. He was also president for two years and Lord King XXVI. He finds his commitment in the organization fulfilling because he is able to interact with people who have similar tastes. Gary has one motivation, he has always been a very active gay person and when the AIDS crises struck so many of his friends died, but yet he was still here. He felt there had to be some reason for this, something important he needed to do. How true that is, because not only that is Gary active in the city’s leather world, but he has been a stalwart supporter of New Orleans and the entire gay community as a whole. And, New Orleans is better for this.

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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place

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.

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

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

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

Custom Breakfast @ Krystal, Bourbon St. @ Canal

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

Red Velvet Cupcakes @ Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy 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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Legends of Fashion: Bob Mackie

Mythic Riddler: Sphinx

Legends of Stage & Screen: John Wayne

King Amon-Ra XLV, Legends of Love: Romeo

Mythic Venom: Persius Mythic Waters: Amphitrite Queen Amon-Ra XLVI, Legends of History: Cleopatra

Captain: Mythic Deity: Amon-Ra Mythic Venom: Medusa Mythic Waters: Poseidon Queen Amon-Ra XLVI Tami Tarmac

Ball Lt., Mythic Rebirth: Phoenix

Legends of Literature: Alice in Wonderland Legends of Music: Dolly Parton

King Amon-Ra XLVI, Legends of History: Marc Anthony

Legends of Fashion: Erte'

Legends of Stage & Screen: Carol Channing

Legends of Literature: Queen of Hearts

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King Amon-Ra XLVI Jerry Scavo

Krewe of Amon-Ra Ball XLVI: Myths & Legends ~ Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center ~ Chalmette, Louisiana

Queen Amon-Ra XLV, Legends of Love: Juliet

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ambush

papar azzi

4 Seasons mgr. Mike welcomes patrons to Super Bowl Sunday

Bar Baron Mac welcomes you to Cutter’s Super Bowl Sunday

Latonya & Ashley @ Billy’s Billy Warr back @ 4 Seasons serving up Super Bowl brats Celebrating Super Bowl Sunday @ Good Friends Bar with mgr. Neel

Billy’s manager Robert & Casper @ Billy’s

Billy’s mgr. Robert & Steve @ 4 Seasons Super Bowl Sunday

Electra City & Tittie Toulouse host Icons show @ Club LAX in Metairie

Bar Baron Toby, Amber Stone & DJ Eddie @ Club LAX Icons show Adeau grillin’ up giant pork chops Super Bowl Sunday @ Cutter’s

Catherine, Johnny Passion, Kelly & Kel @ Icons show

4 Seasons Super Bowl Sunday bartenders Jerome & Chuck Jimmy & Lester celebratin’ Cutter’s Super Bowl Sunday

Sophia & Remy @ Billy’s

T @ Billy’s

BEAT IT’s Bryan & Larry @ 4 Seasons Super Bowl Sunday

Cricket & LA James @ Cutter’s Super Bowl Sunday

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Gino in Icons show @ Club LAX

Across the Lake & Back ~ Slidell, Metairie, New Orleans

Chuck & Joe @ Billy’s in Slidell

Earl & JT grillin’ up brats for 4 Seasons Super Bowl Sunday in Metairie

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commentary LGBT National Leadership, Politic’s 101 by Mark Segal, PGN Publisher, mark@epgn.com nfortunately, many so-called political leaders and journalists in our community seem to not understand the political system, but insist on commenting on it anyway. That alone would be OK, but when viewed by veteran politicos of the opposition (read: conservatives), it gives them the belief that we’ll never accomplish our goals. And gives them a roadmap to block our attempts at equality — especially if we are fighting each other. We need to start that dialogue internally. The first step is making it clear what our priorities are. In the run up to the 2010 election, it was pretty clear: the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” with a minor on marriage equality, and that was blurred by which road to take — repeal of the infamous Defense of Marriage Act in Congress or through the courts. The latter was confused by various lawsuits and tactics: the California Proposition 8 case working its way through the courts, the lawsuit brought by the Massachusetts Attorney General or pressuring the U.S. Attorney General to stop supporting DOMA.

That last one gives a major political clue. DOMA is by far the hardest fight we have on our hands. There’s an old line that comes to mind here: Choose your battles carefully. Additionally, we need a strategy. But stating a strategy means leadership and, in that regard, our community seems to be lost between those who know how to work the system but are afraid to offend the other camp. That other camp’s stance is that we deserve equality now and demand it, but have little knowledge of the political system and are willing to attack the other side. Of course, both sides take credit for the repeal of the military ban. The reality was that it was using the political system that got it done, and fast maneuvering by the administration that won the day. So what’s next on our road to equal-

ity? Again, we are all over the map. Here’s the simple fact. Marriage equality, no matter what we do, will be won in the courts. It will eventually be won or lost in the Supreme Court. You can support that fight by supporting the organizations that understand that system, namely Lambda Legal and American Foundation for Equal Rights. But it’s not an in-the-streets, chaining-yourself act. So masses here won’t help move that along. It will move at its own speed and, honestly, do we want to go before this court? The answer lies with those who know the system. Asking a politician who has to run for office his or her position is a waste of a question and time — both theirs and ours. Unless you’re in a state or city that has lots of

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New Empress XXII Clay

Panorama Jazz Band

Empress XXI Keith, JohnPaul’s Paul & Art

The Chocolate Devil Gary Dottie

snap paparazzi

Jay Tombstone Rain

Lawrence

New Empress XXII Clay

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Radical Faeries 22nd Brigid Ball Legends of the Wood: A Faerie Ball ~ JohnPaul’s ~ New Orleans

Jerry Edgar

commentary ...from 28 education on the issue, such as California, Massachusetts and New York, you’ll get the safe answer. Is there anyone in the LGBT community who cannot state the position of any Democratic or Republican presidentidal candidate on this subject? It’s a no-brainer. That alone tells us how far the issue will go in the political world now. Which battle do we choose? That’s a really simple question born out of history and a proven path. Though we toss the word around, it needs some respect and leadership: nondiscrimination. A majority of the sexualminority community nationally does not even have the simplest of basic human rights. They can be fired simply for being LGBT. They can be denied housing, public accommodations in restaurants and hotels. The road to change is two-fold: Fight it on a state-by-state level or federally by amending the Civil Rights Act, adding sexual orientation and gender identity. It has already been introduced before and, at one time, lost by just one vote in the Senate. Is it possible with a Republican Congress? Yes. But it takes leadership to voice the need to protect LGBT Americans living in places like Alabama, Florida and Texas. Yes, LGBT people living in red states deserve equality too. The issue calls for a leader(s) to be clear and a strategy for equality.

Joan Rivers is a New Yorker for Marriage Equality: Iconic New Yorker Raises Profile of Timely Fight for Equal Marriage

ashington – Fresh off her appearance in a Super Bowl commercial, Joan Rivers joins the Human Rights Campaign – the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization – in a new video in the “New Yorkers for Marriage Equality” campaign. The campaign, which raises the public profile of marriage equality in the Empire State, can be viewed online at www.hrc.org/NY4marriage. “Marriage equality has taken center stage in New York,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “With a governor committed to sign a marriage equality bill and polls showing the vast majority of New Yorkers support it, we are honored to have Joan Rivers join our cast of stars in the New Yorkers for Marriage Equality Campaign.” Two recent New York polls show a majority of New Yorkers support marriage equality. A Siena Research Institute Poll earlier last month found 57 percent of New Yorkers support marriage for same-sex couples and another recent poll by Quinnipiac University had support at 56 percent. The New Yorkers for Marriage Equality campaign is centered on video testimonials from New Yorkers who support the right of same-sex couples to marry. The ads are running online with possible

placement elsewhere when the legislative fight for marriage equality heats up in Albany. To date, HRC has released videos from Joan Rivers, Barbara Bush, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Whoopi Goldberg, Daphne RubinVega, Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon, Fran Drescher, Moby, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe, Julianne Moore and Kenneth Cole – with more to follow in the coming weeks and months. The New York spots for HRC’s campaign are produced and directed by Annie Sundberg and Ricki Stern’s Break Thru Films, the company behind the recent documentary “Joan Rivers A Piece of Work.” The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

N e x t Ed i t i o n :

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

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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

body rubs New Orleans, LA [504] CHARLIE-NOLA'S BODY RUB SPECIALIST: Pics/Rates/Info @ www.men4rentnow.com, search by ID#235049, 504.430.7413 [is411]

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 CLUB LAX, 2301 N. Causeway, 834.7979 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

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

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

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

guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

groceries/delis

New Orleans, LA [504] 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

LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St., 373.5431 SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156 STARLIGHT BY THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 561.8939, StarlightByThePark.COM TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, TubbysBar.COM Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

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, PhD, LPC, Counseling

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. [0711] 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. [0811] 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

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 15-28, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM Mardi

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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. [0112] 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 [is1312]

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

models/escort New Orleans, LA [504] MIKEY NEW ORLEANS #1 MALE ESCORT Pics/Rates/Info @ www.rentboy.com/ mikey9nola1, 504.756.9443 [is411]

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 HILL-

TOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ;

info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, 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, E-

mail: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 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, w w w.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

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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 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 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]

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

Next Edition Mardi Gras

504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

Gay East erParade.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Feb. 15-28, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

acadiana

papar azzi

Blake Duhon hosting karaoke @ Jules

Andre & company enjoying Jules while Rick is away

Jacque taking time to relax @ Tonic

Elizabeth, Carlene, Wendy & Maria @ Jules after ROU Ball Joey & Mandy Michelle @ Tonic The gaggle @ Tonic Steven performing karaoke @ Jules, what’s that between his legs?

Rick, John & Andre @ Tonic

Belinda Bee’s first performance @ Tonic’s Tuesday Talent

Cade, Josh, Scott & Karen @ Jules

Belinda Bee looking fierce on her birthday @ Tonic

Tayler, Joey, Trey & Ryan @ Jules karaoke John, Joey, Tayler & Matt @ Jules

Steven & Stephen @ Jules

Sing your heart out @ Tonic karaoke

Either you love Nick or you hate him

The contestants of Kira’s Tuesday Night Talent Show @ Tonic

John & Ryan @ Jules

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 15-28, 2011 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide• GayMar diGras.COM Mardi

Trey, Clyde Harrelson & Joey enjoying the Apollo Ball in Baton Rouge

Fierce, Love, Hate ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins

Laura Flannery performing @ Tonic karaoke

Gay East erParade.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Feb. 15-28, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

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

ho’s ready for Mardi Gras! Whether you spend the weekend in New Orleans and then Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras in Lafayette or you spend the entire time in Lafayette, you are pretty much guaranteed a good time. It’s time to wrap yourself in that purple, green, and gold feather boa that you probably bought at last year’s parade and get ready to pass a good time. You’re listening up with Joey Collins!

Recapping a Night Cap

efore the tacky purple, green, and gold polostriped shirts are taking over the parade routes, I recently ushered in the Mardi Gras season by attending the Krewe of Apollo Ball in Baton Rouge. I was honored to be a guest of Clyde Harrelson. The Krewe of Apollo Baton Rouge really knows how to put on a show. This year marked their 30th anniversary and in doing so, the krewe decided the theme would be to pay homage to the themes of the past 29 years. It was a spectacular event and really showcased how much the krewe had grown in the past 30 years. What was most impressive was the synergism which occurred between the krewe and the local Baton Rouge community. Many local merchants were corporate sponsors of the krewe and patrons of the ball were happy to donate cash by filling up a giant red ribbon that went towards the Apollo HIV/AIDS fund. Much appreciation goes out to the Krewe of Apollo Baton Rouge for organizing such an amazing event. Miss Belinda Bee recently attended her first Tuesday Night Talent Show at Tonic. This was not only her first experience with the show but she was also celebrating her birthday. Miss Belinda wore an outfit that was fit for even the Haus of Gaga. The creativity and fierceness her masquerade displayed a definitely true drag queen. The red and black hair that accented the red and black dress was something of a Cruella de Ville that screamed out, “Flamer!” I personally loved it. Jules has recently taken on a new karaoke host for Thursday nights, Blake Duhon. I was a bit skeptical because sometimes too many country songs on a karaoke night can just put me to sleep. This was not the case when I decided to check it out two weeks ago. Blake showcases a very large and upbeat genre of music. He really knows how to work the crowd in a right direction by performing many songs from the 80s, 90s, and today. That kind of

sounds like a tag line for a radio station but trust me, he’s definitely an amazing addition to the Jules line up.

Bar Spill

he Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette will be holding their annual ball on Saturday, February 19th at the Cajun Dome Convention Center. Rumors are that by now their tickets are sold out. You can always visit their website at www.kreweofapollo.com to confirm. With that said, the biggest question on everyone’s mind is, “Where’s the afterparty?” Both Jules Downtown and Tonic are hosting the unofficial after-parties. From previous year experiences, both venues will be equally packed from wall to wall with amazing drink specials and even more amazing DJ’s. If you’re in formal wear at Tonic then you will be able to get in for free. Regardless of where you go, it’s going to be the right decision. If you’re sober enough then I recommend bar hopping to both venues. Just don’t drink and drive, you may spill your drink. Aside from after-parties and karaoke, Jules host Valerie Sugarbaker’s Drag Show every other Friday and on Saturday Dance, Dance, Dance your ass off with free shots on the bar and drink specials that will be announced each night. Remember, Jules is trying to make downtown more colorful. As for Tonic, don’t forget that every Tuesday is Kira’s Tuesday Night Talent Show hosted by Brodie Mess. Wednesday night is karaoke with DJ Chad Evans and Thursday is $15 all you can drink, Drink and Drown with DJ Point n Click playing all of your requested songs. Friday night is Ladies night and every other Friday night the Krewe of Divas will be performing. Saturday night features announced drink and shot specials which leads to Sunday Funday. Sunday Funday features $2 mimosas and a free lunch, Bingo at 6:30pm and a drag show at 10pm. Don’t forget about two for one happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 5pm to 9pm.

Carnival Events

ooking for an outlet to give back to the community during Carnival Season? On Saturday, February 19th in River Ranch Town Square, The Children’s Shelter of Acadiana Youth will be hosting their annual King Cake 5k. This is a fundraiser to support the needy chil-

dren of Acadiana. Race day registration time is from 7:30 to 8:15am. Preday registration is $25 and race-day registration is $30, the race begins at 8:30am. Participants are welcome to all you can eat King Cake which will be provided by local Acadiana bakeries as well as New Orleans area bakeries. For more information you can visit http:/ / w w w. a c a d i a n a y o u t h i n c . o r g / site19.php. The Children’s Shelter of Acadiana Youth provides a safe environment for the children of the eight parishes that make up Acadiana. Many of these children come from homes where food is scares, living conditions are poor, and children fear for their safety. For more information or for ways that you can help, you can visit www.acadianayouthinc.org. The Mystic Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette will be hosting its annual Mardi Gras Ball on Saturday, February 19th at 8pm at the Cajun Dome Convention Center, doors open at 6pm. This year’s theme, Body Art, is ready to raise the bar and impress you with even more creative endeavors. As mentioned earlier, you may attempt to purchase tickets at www.kreweofapollo.com but don’t be saddened if they’re already sold out. One can experience Mardi Gras doggy style when you attend the annual Krewe des Chiens Parade on Saturday, February 26th at 2pm in downtown Lafayette. Krewe des Chiens is a Mardi Gras krewe that specializes in honoring man’s best friend, dogs. The krewe is open to dogs of all breeds, sizes, and origins. The only requirement is a good temperament and a desire to help less fortunate animals. A completed membership form and $25 dues in advance are required for membership or $35 on parade day. For more information you can visit www.paradefordogs.com or look them up on Facebook. On Saturday, February 26th at 6pm, Krewe de Rio will roll with a Latin-style Carnival experience. This is a local krewe that is known for pulling out all of the stops. The parade will begin to roll downtown and end in Cajun Field. To become a member or to join the Krewe you can visit www.kreweofrio.com. For more information about Lafayette Mardi Gras, parade routes, and other tourism information visit www.lafayettetravel.com. We all hope to see you soon!

That’s Sexual!

o I’m trying to take a break from the bar scene by visiting with a friend and enjoy an evening in during this unprecedented ice storm that we recently endured. My glass of margarita is running low so I begin to pour myself a glass of straight vodka and sit back to enjoy a quiet evening and watch an episode of Saturday Night Live. Just when I finally

find my comfort setting within, my phone rings. As I lift up my iPhone I decide to not discard the call and humor the caller by answering. For the purpose of this story, we shall refer to the caller as Aiden. Aiden insists that I must listen to his issue while I insist that he probably needs to consult someone who cares. As I lift my glass and take another sip, I decide to listen simply for entertainment purposes. As I switch the phone to speaker and stretch out across the avocado-colored couch, I ask, “What’s the issue?” As he banters on and on I almost want to hang up the phone when I realize that he’s talking about an ex. So here’s the story. First one must wonder how many boyfriends one can be dating at the same time. When is it time to let go? When is it time to stop having sex with your ex while dating three other people? I know, sounds like something straight out of Cosmopolitan. Well one night Aiden was apparently not feeling so himself. It was a very cold wintery night and despite the three guys he was dating, he still felt lonely and needed somebody to cuddle with. As he walks to his car he notices a brown belt and a pair of flip-flops sitting on the floor board in his backseat. Neither one of these items belong to him but being that it’s mid-January obviously those flip-flops have been buried there for several months. The way Aiden’s mind works, he sees this as the perfect opportunity to text his exboyfriend who we shall call Devin. Mind you that Devin is also dating somebody. Lost yet? So the two begin texting and to make a long story short, Aiden ends up at Devin’s apartment across town. By this time Aiden’s iPhone has been switched to “airplane mode” so that he is not able to receive any calls or text messages from the three guys that he is already secretly dating. Side note: switching your iPhone is the perfect excuse to say, “Oh my phone was dead” or “I guess I had bad reception”. I hear it’s highly recommended by 3 out of 5 of the men who have been caught on the reality series Cheaters. So after a long night of lust and we probably don’t want to know whatever else, the sun rises and it’s time to start the day. Aiden switches his phone off of “airplane mode” and of course the text messages and voicemails from the previous night start rolling in. One of them is from one of the guys he’s dating who we shall call Jeff. The text from Jeff read, “Good night, going sleep at a friend’s house, talk to you in the morning.” Aiden being Aiden immediately picks up the phone and calls Jeff and starts to question him, “Where are you and what friend’s house did you go to last night?” Aiden didn’t like Jeff’s response, “I slept at my friend Jeremy’s

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under the gaydar

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

Where did all the queers go?

here is a word for what is behind the agenda of the modern gay rights movement, this word is ‘heteronormative’, and it broadly means ‘conforming to the heterosexual social model, and attempting to copy existing social and economic structures’. Everyone, it seems, wants to blend in - and our community seems keen to do the same, without much thought as to why we were exiled in the first place, or to whether the lifestyles and institutions we are attempting to access are actually desirable or not. In LGBT majority churches, there is a well known phenomenon where members consciously or unconsciously try to recreate the churches that threw them out in the first place. They want all they had, with all its imperfections and comforts, just tolerant of them as homosexuals – and are often very eager to buy into the other prejudices their old churches held, like racism or misogyny in order to feel ‘included’. Unless we as LGBT people learn the lessons of our own exile, the lessons of our own hardships, then those hardships were pointless and wasted, the insights we have got from our special viewpoint on the margins of our modern society should allow us to be a bit more discerning about what we choose to buy into in the future! I was struck by this when I spent some time with the moderator of MCC last year. Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson is a lesson in the difference between today’s activism, and the early movement, a movement of ‘queer’ people, who recognized and delighted in their difference. These people, like Rev Nancy, saw exclusion as an opportunity to think outside the box, to be radically inclusive, not just to hold onto the shirt tails of heterosexual society, but to model something better, more healthy, even more ‘Godly’ – in short, a world of compassion and acceptance. These early activists saw the solution in modeling something better and inviting others in, not slavishly begging for the leavings of the majority, a majority that generally never spend more than a few minutes considering issues that lie at the very heart of our lives. Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson, and Rev. Elder Troy Perry who founded our church, didn’t look at bathhouses and bars as embarrassments to be swept under the carpet, but symptoms of truthfulness and potentially healthy relationships based upon equality and

self knowledge. A colleague of mine put it very well recently in Baton Rouge when he said MCC affirms ALL relationships between equals, whether they last for twenty years or twenty minutes. Our society thinks it has found a way to send us all back to sleep – and that way is dropping crumbs from its table in the hope that we will be satisfied. This is much easier than the radical, root and branch reform that is desperately needed, and while I am delighted by progress toward marriage equality and LGBT folk in the military, no one seems to be having a conversation about the nature of marriages and the fact that the USA, a country never seriously threatened by invasion should be spending more than the rest of the world combined on the military when many Americans lack health care, housing, or even enough food! It should be up to the individuals in a marriage to define what that marriage will look like, without repeated the disastrous and oppressive patterns of many heteronormative marriages. Let us be queer, and proud of being queer. Let us rightly see OUR life experiences as the key to set free millions of people – more than anyone, millions of straight people! Let us see our difference as a source of wisdom and delight, and seek to model a new and truthful way of living, not just parrot the old lies that cast us out in the first place! Thankfully, New Orleans is a pretty damned queer city – modeling something different and taking pride in it. I am reminded of a northern English phrase ‘theres nowt as queer as folk’ meaning, ‘there is nothing as peculiar as normal people’. Now that’s something to live by! Rev. Clinton Crawshaw is an ordained Anglican priest, and a minister in Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC). In New Orleans, The Big Easy MCC meets every Sunday at 5pm at 1333 S. Carrollton Avenue as a loving and affirming Christian community. To contact Rev. Clinton email to revcrawshaw@yahoo.com. To contact The Big Easy MCC call 504.214.4340 or go to their website at www.bigeasymcc.com.

Next Edition

Giant Mardi Gras

Ambush 504.522.8049

cont act

marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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

When You Wish Upon A Star

elcome to Mardi Gras in New Orleans. And keeping with tradition, the gay carnival krewes are bringing the grandeur and revelry of Gay Carnival to the public. Several fantastic balls have already occurred and the day is finally almost upon me for my turn, and as it draws near my adrenaline levels rise. As many of you may know I am the Captain of the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon and our Bal Masque entitled When You Wish Upon A Star: The Mickey Ball will take place on Friday, February 25 at The Sugar Mill. Being part of a gay Carnival krewe is an exciting and rewarding experience on so many levels. It allows you a unique opportunity to be a part of one of the largest gay celebrations that has been around for decades. From the first gay Carnival Ball (Krewe of Petronius) fifty years ago to the ones of today, the gay community has entertained this city with fabulous flair that only queens know how to deliver. This year is no exception to the rule as the balls that have happened have shown us. Now it is my krewe’s turn to dazzle you with our costumes, our charm, our wit, and yes, our gayness. Simply said, come out and watch us shine. Our ball this year is dedicated to the memory of the man who made our krewe possible, the wonderful Mickey Gil. Mickey’s essence was Mardi Gras, a true lover of the holiday and the

organization, the entire krewe is thrilled to present The Mickey Ball to our guests. The Sugar Mill is located at 1101 Convention Center Boulevard. Doors open at 7pm and the Tableau begins at 8pm. Table seats are sold out, but general admission tickets are on sale for $20 at the door. For more information, call 504.525.4498.

acadiana happens ...from 38

what’s the real issue here? How does Aiden confront Evan? Does he at all because how would he explain it? How does Aiden even know if Evan saw him or not? Or does Evan just learn his lesson and end this sexual behavior? Well apparently not because by the time I finish this story Evan is already on a date with Aiden and plans to meet up with Jeff at the end of the evening, regardless if Evan goes home with Aiden for some more sexual activities he can always find a reason to leave and then go see Jeff.

house, what’s the big deal?” Well Aiden apparently had never heard of this “friend” Jeremy and was not too happy about this. Okay, let’s pause because I know your jaw is dropping. Yes, this guy who is dating three people and just enjoyed passionate love making with his exboyfriend is calling out one of the guys he is dating for being at another guy’s house. Is this now something for Cosmopolitan or Penthouse Letters? So moving on, Jeff and Aiden argue it out for another ten minutes before hanging up the phone. Aiden thanks Devin for a fun night and walks out of the apartment to head home. Just as Aiden enters the parking lot he recognizes a familiar car from across the parking lot. It’s not just any car but it’s a car that belongs to another one of the guys that Aiden is dating that we shall refer to as Evan. Aiden immediately ducks when he sees Evan walking out of a mysterious apartment that obviously does not belong to Evan. As soon as Evan gets into his car and drives away Aiden finally gets into his, hoping that Evan did not see Aiden or his own car. Wow, that was exhausting just trying to keep up with all the names. So

Mark Your Calendars

he NO/AIDS Task Force has released the dates for their major events for 2011. Dining Out For Life, the city wide event where Crescent City restaurants donate 25% of their proceeds to the Task [continued on 41]

Closing Out

can’t stress how much I’m hearing that this year will be a huge blow out for Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette. I’m being told by many that the krewe will be returning to their even grandeur years and that this year we shall be in for a real treat. I’m keeping my fingers crossed because I have much faith that this is true and I hope I am not let down. Let’s just make sure that we’re very safe and careful out there, Lafayette. Many of us will be drinking and many of us will be driving from the Cajun Dome to either downtown or across town, and from there many of us will be attending an afterparty. Let’s remember to play it safe and as always, keep the party going.

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under the gaydar ...from 40 Force, will happen on Thursday, July 14. Every year thousands of people join together and walk to raise funds and awareness for those affected with HIV and AIDS. This year the NO/AIDS Walk will take place on Sunday, September 25. And finally, the event for which I am the chair, Art Against Aids, will be on Saturday, December 3. For more information about these events or to volunteer, call 504.821.2601.

can pre-order your copy of Nine Lives: A Musical Adaptation at www.mysterystreetrecords.com. The cost is $20 and all preorders will be signed by Coleman deKay and Paul Sanchez.

Book of the Month

love a novel that you can’t put down and my choice for book of the month for February was one of those. Talk about laugh out loud funny, this book focuses on the best and worst of the gay lifestyle. Stuff That Makes A Gay Heart

Weep is written by Freeman Hall and is a definitive guide to the loud and proud dislikes of millions. From bad home décor and tragic drag to cheap vodka, this book spotlights 150 of the campiest pet peeves. This novel is a quick read and makes the perfect gift for yourself or any gay [continued on 42]

JoAnn has Nine Lives

oAnn Guidos, the owner of Kajun's Pub located on 2256 St. Claude Avenue truly has lived many lives, so why limit them to nine. First as John in her previous life before Katrina, then as we know and love her today as JoAnn. She and her story is immortalized in Dan Baum’s book, Nine Lives. The book is a multi-voiced biography of our imperiled city told through the eyes of nine real and unforgettable characters as they dealt with two defining and devastating storms, Hurricanes Betsy and Katrina. Recently on Saturday, January 29, JoAnn hosted a celebration at Kajun's Pub promoting the release of the album Nine Lives: A Musical Adaptation Volume I. Written by Paul Sanchez and Coleman deKay who were both at the party, the album has incorporated over 100 of the city’s finest artists in the film, musical and theatrical communities. The party was literally a who’s who in the New Orleans entertainment community. JoAnn’s Kajun's Pub is quickly establishing itself as a melting pot of all communities, gay and straight. And in the near future, Kajun's Pub will be adding a restaurant that will serve the finest bar food in the city. Do not miss out on this novel, which I will be reviewing in one of my upcoming columns. Also you

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under the gaydar ...from 41 friend you may have. It is not only tellingly true, but it is fresh, quick witted and inspired. I cannot sing enough accolades on this narrative. Freeman Hall is the author of the acclaimed memoir of his experience in Retail Hell. He resides in Los Angeles and has four popular blogs. Stuff That Makes A Gay Heart Weep has been released by Adams Media, a division of F+W Media. For more information on this book, go to www.gayheartsweep.com. And as always, you could find this book and many other gay themed publications at our local LGBT independent bookseller FAB which is located at 600 Frenchman Street.

Mardi Gras Royalty: Part 1

he gay Carnival season has started full steam ahead and two krewes have already impressed us with their balls. First, the Krewe of Mwindo presented their 13th Mardi Gras ball at the St. Bernard Civic Center on Saturday, January 29. The theme was Indulge in Madness and the members satisfied all our indulgences that night. President Joseph McCrory welcomed us that evening followed by a prayer by Mark Johnson. Then there was the presentation of colors by the New Orleans Bear and Trapper Social Club. The National Anthem was belted out by Tahtianah Kresha, who was melodious voice reverberated through the building. This young lady is talented.

The Master of Ceremonies that evening was Thomas Franklin III who was One Mad Hat and he truly lived up to his title. I have to give it to Thomas, he had a good time on that stage as did the rest of the krewe. After a brief award presentation from NOLA Masquerade to the krewe from President Ryan Rochon, the tableau began. The ball was separated in five sections. The first was “Smoke” with Ball Captain XII Joe Blow the caterpillar coming out on a Technicolor outfit that would make Lewis Carroll proud. He was followed up by the royal return, the King of Hearts. Throughout the night the Rising Stars dance group performed some wonderful interludes for the audience’s enjoyment. Then we went “Walking in the Park” with Alice in all her sassy glory, then we got to see the ball captain transformed into the butterfly. The Cheshire Cat came next before we entered the “Path of Transformation.” This segment included All the King’s Horses and Men, the Knave of Hearts and the Bird from McDonoghville. Ms. Zhane Kennedy, the newly crowned Miss Louisiana America 2010-2011 performed a tribute remembering those who are no longer with us. The ensuing portion was called “Tea Time with Hennessey” and had some great costumes such as March Hare, Mad Hattress Transformed, Mr. and Mrs. 100 Proof Old Grand Dad and Chocolate Rabbit. The finality was “Reality Redux” and King and Queen Mwindo XIII came out as the King and Queen of Chess. Their costumes were beautiful and very elegant. Congratulations to Queen Mwindo XIII Dennis E.

Walton, II you were gorgeous and to your King Reuben Collins Filmore, III, may your reign be a very special one. The Krewe of Amon-Ra presented their ball, Myths and Legends, on Saturday, February 5, also at the St. Bernard Cultural Center. And like its predecessor, it was a huge success. The evening began with the presentation of colors, the National Anthem and the President’s Welcome done eloquently by Jay Cooper. I was lucky to be seated at Vice President Opal Masters’ table, who brings table décor to a new art form. Martha Stewart needs to take a page from her book. The tableau began with the Legends of Love return of the past royalty, Countess C. Alice and David Aranda looked lovely as they presented themselves and took their seats to preside over the ball. They were followed by Mythic Deity which was Captain Barry Rutherford, then Mythic Rebirth which was Ball Lieutenant John Zeringue, who in my opinion had one of the most show stopping numbers of the night. Hosting this evening’s festivities was Elizabeth Bouvier, who appeared out of a Tiffany box and performed a hysterically gay choreographed number. She kept things moving quickly alongside her costar Gary, who is best known for his country line dance classes every Tuesday night at JohnPaul’s. The night continued with Mythic Rebirth, Mythic Waters and Legends of Music. Another highlight was Legends of Fashion as Opal Masters and Rhonda Roget took the stage. Their gowns and rhinestone adorned back pieces would make even Erte' and Bob Mackie proud, which was the designers they were representing. A benefit number for Buzzy’s Boys and Girls was performed by Elizabeth Bouvier, Rhonda Roget and Lauren Brown raising over $800. Barry Rutherford gave the Captain’s presentation to living Legends which were krewe members who have been a part of Amon-Ra for twenty years plus. Then Barbara Ella took the stage as Carol Channing doing Hello Dolly along with her John Wayne counterpart as Legends of Stage and Screen. Gizelle Bouvier came out with Persius as Mythic Venom. Her Medusa rendition has people gASPing in the audience. Get it asp. Okay bad joke moving on. They were followed by Legends of Literature and Mythic Riddler. The final bow of the night came from the announcement of Queen and King 46 which were Tami Tarmac and Jerry Scavo as Legends of History. Tami’s Cleopatra never shined so much and Jerry’s exuberance as Marc Anthony was infectious. Best wishes on your year as royalty. If you are interested in being a member of Amon-Ra, their rush party will be held on Sunday, March 20 upstairs at Café Lafitte’s in Exile from 2 – 5pm.

Movie Review: The Illusionist

nce again I am reviewing another Academy Award nominated film. The Illusionist was up for a Golden Globe which it lost to Toy Story 3 and is currently nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film. This animated film is based on an unproduced, semi-autobiographical script that comedic actor and director Jacques Tati wrote in 1956. Directed by Sylvain Chomet, known for The Triplets of Belleville, the main character is an animated caricature of Tati himself. The story begins with a magician, one of a dying breed of stage entertainers. With emerging rock stars stealing his thunder in the late 1950s, he is forced to accept increasingly obscure assignments in fringe theatres, at garden parties and in bars and cafés. While performing in a village pub off the west coast of Scotland, he encounters Alice, an innocent young girl, who

will change his life forever. Watching his performance for the excited villagers who are celebrating the arrival of electricity on their remote island, Alice is awestruck by his show and believes his tricks are real magic. Though they don’t speak the same language, the two lonely strangers quickly bond through small kindnesses. Alice stows away on his departing ship and follows him to Edinburgh. There, they quickly fall into a father – daughter relationship, with Alice keeping their home at a boarding house for vaudevillians, while he goes to work in a small local theatre. The story follows their relationship as both characters grow older and wiser and life marches on. The Illusionist is a visual masterpiece with hand drawn two dimensional animation. And if you are just judging the movie on the book itself, then I can see why it was nominated, but then it was the storyline that left me unsatisfied. If you liked Chomet’s past works and are fans of adult animation, you will probably find this film enjoyable. As stunning as this film is, it just was a difficult film for me to like. I found it horribly depressing from beginning to end and the small comic touches were not enough to warm it up. As far as the father daughter relationship, it played out more as an older lonely man and opportunist girl looking to escape her dismal life. It was the same older man/ younger girl storyline, albeit there was [continued on 45]

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ambush

papar azzi

Lazarus House thank you party for Halloween Bartenders Aletha, Randy & Jeff with new mgr. John (front) @ Lafitte’s Mwindo’s King XII returns as King of Hearts

John joins 4 Seasons Brad @ his DP Going Away Party

Bourbon Pub & Parade bartender Sammy

Lafitte’s bartenders Will & Jeff flank John @ his DP Going Away Party

Mwindo’s Cheshire Cat

Bartenders Eric, Bert & Drew @ Drewsday Tuesdays @ Country Club

Josh, John & Aletha @ John's DP Going Away Party

Bartender Monique, bar baron Rick & Paul @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Mwindo’s Knave of Hearts

Bar Baron Michael joins New Yorkers Kuki & Anthony @ Corner Pocket

King & Queen Armeinius XLII Albert & Rusty @ Mwindo Ball

New Oz bartender Frankie

KCQ XVIII-Elect Rona Conners, Karen, Princesse & Gene @ Amon-Ra Ball XLVI

John celebrates with bar baron Chuck @ his Double Play Going Away Party

Ronald, John & 4 Seasons Chuck @ John’s DP Going Away Party

Persana (r) & one of her boys @ Oz’s Thursday Night Strip-Off

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King Cake Queen XV Marsha Naquin-Delain with Susanna Evangelista & the Hair Club gang @ JohnPaul's following Amon-Ra Ball XLVI

Hot, Hot, Hot ~ New Orleans

Miss Dee & Stephanie Lee @ Club LAX

under the gaydar ...from 42 no sex, which we have seen before, just not in animation, but still nothing new. So unfortunately, here is another Oscar nominated movie that leaves me scratching my head saying “Really?” This is definitely a small popcorn sort of movie.

Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom

hen do you know you are in a relationship? That is always subjective, but I have to giggle when you see these Facebook Queens post that they are in a relationship then one week later they are single again. I am all for relationships, but for the love of all that is good and healthy in the world, at least wait till the second or God forbid

third date before you post that statement. What are you a lesbian? And girls, I know you nest faster than us gentlemen, but really even you should have a time limit too. Honestly, who makes life decisions like moving in with someone after one date? And do not tell me you just knew it was love from that first night. That is total bullshit, it was more like desperation. Also, whether on Facebook, out with friends or at the water cooler at work, bragging to people about your relationship only elicits two things. 20% of all the people you talk to do not care and the other 80% secretly would give any amount of money to see your relationship go down in flames. Then they can secretly relish in the fact of giving you the, “I am so sorry speech,” and then throw their own words back at them. Like “oh my God, he was cheating, remember when he bought you

that cute little bear with a balloon for Valentine’s Day.” I mean good times right. Come on we all know we all do it. It is not bitterness, just simple amusement, like reality television. Also, if you put you are in a relationship and three weeks, months, or days (in my friend Chad’s case) later,

you post you are single, that screams two things, neither which are good. One is whore or the other is fickle. So my gay friends please wait to make sure that he or she is the right one before jumping to the “In a relationship” status. You will look better in the long run.

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History 2

Fashion Show 3

Captain XXX

Fashion Show 2 History 3

Cirque 2

Co-Captain XXX

Show Girls Celebrations

Broadway 1

Shopping Spree Lights, Camera, Action 1 Elements 2

Broadway 2

Sesame Street meets Titanic

Gems & Jewels

Universe

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Broadway 4

Apollo Baton Rouge 30th Anniversary: Apollo Revealed — Inspirations of the Bal Masque ~ Photos by Staci Mahan

Circus 1

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