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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)
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he Grand Send-Off for the Queen of North Rampart Marcy Marcell culminated in the huge Marcy Marcell Tribute Show at JohnPaul's in New Orleans. Earlier, family and friends began the day with a moving Votive Memorial Mass at St. Anna's Episcopal Church led by Fr. Bill Terry, followed by a Jazz Second Line Parade led by a glass white horse drawn hearse through the French Quarter and Marigny ending at Kajun's Pub for the Celebration of Life Party and Buffet. The day ended with the tribute show at JohnPaul's. (Photo: front-Elizabeth Bouvier, Corynne Deville, Miss Billy, Zsa Zsa d'LaHor, Tami Tarmac & Raven Kennedy; rear-Princesse Stephaney, Opal Masters, Gizelle Bouvier, Regina Adams, Eva Las Vegas, Maybelline Mascara, Monica Sinclair, Keno Kane, Monalot Fontaine & Bubbie Kakes)
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he 17th annual Memorial Weekend blowout hosted by famed promoter Johnny Chisholm will bring circuit greats and headliner Wynter Gordon to Pensacola and Pensacola Beach. Catch ForePlay, Bitch Bingo, Wave, Sweat, Friction, Abracadabra, Spellbound
DJ Roland Belmares Friday @ Wave, Pensacola Beach
After Hours, and Climax May 26-May 30. For tickets or information, visit MemorialWeekendPensacola.COM.
Wynter Gordon headlines Sunday @ Abracadabra, Pensacola Civic Center
DJ Eddie Baez Satuday @ Sweat, Emerald City DJ Joe Gauthreaux Sunday @ Abracadabra, Pensacola Civic Center
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he family of Marcy Marcell joins stage stars for A Golden Celebration: A Tribute to Marcy Marcell hosted by Oz New Orleans. The entertainers donated their talents to this fundraiser which raised $1,140 for the Grand Send-Off for Marcy Marcell.
DJ Dewight Barkley @ Foreplay Thursday, Strip Down Friday, Friction Sunday, Climax Monday; Emerald City
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orynne Deville joined Mac McAll hosting Marcy Marcell's Lucky #13 fundraiser raising $794 at Cutter's benefiting the Grand Send-Off for Marcy Marcell.
DJ Wendy Hunt Sunday @ Spellbound, MySpayce
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O/AIDS Task Force Director of Fund Development Cheryl Grace joins Saints and Sinners Literary Festival Director Paul Willis at the opening event for the 9th Saints and Sinners Literary Fest at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.
Lauren Mitchell, Bitch Bingo, Jewels of the Emerald Coast
Weekend Hostess Bianca Del Rio
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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Gulf South Ready for Memorial Day Weekend
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his holiday edition of Ambush brings you numerous choices for its readership across the Gulf South. As you flip through these pages you will find everything in New Orleans from Military Maneuvers at Oz, American Soldiers Date Night at JohnPaul's, MD Specials at 700 Club, Wet Jockey Shorts Contest at Corner Pocket, Pool Party at Country Club, Memorial Day Cookout at Michael's On The Park, Miss Tubby's Newcomer at Tubby's Golden Lantern, Jock Strap Locker Room at Phoenix, USO Show at Bourbon Pub & Parade, Memorial Day Cookout at 4 Seasons in Metairie, Indoor AirConditioned Picnic at Double Play, and much more. And read on for other featured events across the Gulf South!
12th Annual MASCARa Race Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans May 27-30
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ponsored by Wood Enterprises and Budweiser, the 12th annual MASCARa Race promises to be even bigger and better with events surrounding the race all weekend long May 27-30. All proceeds from the event benefits the NOCCA Institute which supports NOCCA Riverfront.. All contestants are asked to get sponsors to donate money. Since 2002 more that $80,000 has been raised for this very worthy charity. On Friday, May 27, Good Friends Bar at the corner of St. Ann and Dauphine Streets, will hold the 11th Hamster Derby beginning at 5pm. One can bet on the races using Hamster Bucks ($1 gets you 10 Hamster Bucks) which can be purchased at the betting booth. These Hamster Bucks can be used later at the charity auction with prizes that have been donated by local retailers. Prior to the Derby enjoy the Tailgate Party prepared by bar manager Neel. Saturday, May 28 brings you to the Balcony Bar which will host the first annual Red Bean Wrestling at 9pm with a $5 donation. Watch as the contestants go at it in a big tub of New Orleans favorite meal. Sunday, May 29, Rawhide, located at the corner of St. Ann and Burgundy, will host its annual Crawfish Boil at 5pm at $10 a plate. They brag that they make the best crawfish in the South. The race itself will be held Memorial Day, Monday, May 30 at Clover Grill promptly at 2pm. The gun sounds and the race begins with contestants gobbling down an order of chili cheese fries. When they finish this leg of the race they run across the street to Café Lafitte In Exile where they put on panty hose and high heel shoes, which have to be at least three inches (yes there is someone there with a ruler), with the help of their pit crew. Once they complete this task they revve their engines with a shot of peppermint schnapps and head for the third lap. It's down Dumaine Street to Burgundy and on to the Rawhide. Here the pit crews help the contestants put on jewelry consisting of earrings, a bracelet, and two rings. After this, they cool their fueling system with a seven ounce Bud Light before heading to Good Friends, and lap four. At Good Friends make-up is applied, which consist of foundation, lips, eyes (including eye lashes) and painted fingernails. They then shift gears with a six ounce Separator, then retouch their make-up and proceed to lap five. Once they make their way up St. Ann Street to the Bourbon Pub, the pit crews fit them with breasts and a bra. They then grab a hat and purse from the crew, and respark their plugs with a two ounce Mind Eraser.
inside
GAA Ballot, Father's Day out June 7th DEADLINE: Tues., May 31st
celebrazzi trodding the boards marcy marcell send-off pics snap paparazzi/new orleans mobile paparazzi pensacola paparazzi pensacola dish chop chop/nola restaurant guide classifieds
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acadiana paparazzi/lafayette acadiana happens/lafayette under the gaydar/new orleans 40th southern decadence ambush paparazzi/nola, metairie halloween new orleans (HNO28) ambush paparazzi/metairie, nola baton rouge
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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com
At lap six, in Oz, they are placed into a floor length evening gown and get their final refueling with a six ounce Daiquiri. They are now ready for the home stretch. They run down Bourbon Street to the finish line back at Clover Grill. Here they enter through the Dumaine Street door donning their wig and hat and exit through the Bourbon Street door. Here they are inspected to ensure that they have met all the requirements of each lap. There are three categories of competition: Fastest Time, Best Drag and Most Money Raised. Contestants will be awarded points in each category with a trophy being awarded in each category. The person who receives the most points will be declared Ms. Mascara 2011. The award ceremony will be held later that day, at 5pm at Rawhide, located at 740 Burgundy Street. To become a contestant or for more information, contact Ken Grandpre at 504.525.6724.
Pensacola Gears Up For Big Memorial Day Weekend May 26-30
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any roads will lead to Pensacola and Pensacola Beach, Florida as some 30,000 head to the beautiful white sandy beaches. It's also the annual pilgrimage for the largest GLBT weekend in this area chock full of circuit events, parties and more, ideal for all of the sun-worshipers out there. his year brings the 17th annual Memorial Day Weekend by famed circuit promoter Johnny Chisholm with events on Pensacola Beach, at the Pensacola Civic Center, Emerald City and MySpayce. The weekend starts with ForePlay with DJ Robbie C at Emerald City Thursday; Bitch Bingo with Bianca Del Rio and Lauren Mitchell at Emerald City on Friday, followed later that evening by Wave, the beach party, with DJ Roland Belmares on Pensacola Beach; Sweat with DJ Eddie Baez at Emerald City on Saturday; Friction with DJ Dewight Barkley at Emerald City on Sunday, followed by Abracadabra at the Pensacola Civic Center featuring DJ Joe Gauthereaux, and headliner and international recording artist Wynter Gordon, followed by Spellbound After Hours with Wendy Hunt; and Climax with DJDewight Barkley at Emerald City on Monday. For additional information visit MemorialWeekendPensacola.COM. risty Lee presents Unleashed Pensacola May 26-29 at Crabs and Flounder's on Pensacola Beach. On Thursday at Flounders it's DJs Beverly Skillz and Tony Skracthere. Friday brings DJ Trey Stein, Elley Duke, Halcyon and Kristy Lee to Crabs; and
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Spikey & the After Midnites, DJs Beverly Skillz and Tony Skracthere, and 17th Floor to Flounders. Saturday brings Gregg Fells, Michelle Malone, GodDes & She to Crabs; and Spikey & the After Midnites with DJs Beverly Skillz, Tony Skracthere and Trey Stein to Flounder's. Sunday is the Grand Finale at Flounder's with DJs Trey Stein, Beverly Skillz and Tony Skracthere, along with Kristy Lee, and Spikey & The After Midnites. For additional info visit PensacolaUnleashed.COM. ary Pappas & B-Bob's Mobile present the Pensacola Beach Bash Friday and Saturday at Castaways on Pensacola Beach. Friday brings Ela-
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THE OFFICIAL MAG
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP: 650,000+ in print/3.5 Million+ On-line NATIONAL CIRCULATION: USA... Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg Texas - Austin
STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Devin Black, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Tony Leggio, Lee Mullen, Jeff Palmquist, Steve Patrick, Dino Remo, Patrick Shannon, Frankie Wingerter-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-Pensacola, FL Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media~212.242.6863 AMBUSH Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2011, 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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the "official" dish ...from 8 tion with LA DJs the Perry Twins and international recording artist Abigail, while Saturday brings Fascination with DJ Kimberly S. and international recording artist Kristine W. For additional information, visit PensacolaBeachBash.COM.
Coronation 2011 Announces Southern Decadence GMs June 7
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outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVI Julian Artressia and Toby Lefort
make it official when they announce their successor(s) Tuesday, June 7, 8pm, at Club LAX in Metairie. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Southern Decadence, the chosen one(s) will be the 37th Southern Decadence Grand Marshal(s). As the excitement gains momentum, the guessing game is already in full swing, but many bet there will be two, and some hint tha TMZ minus the Z may just be the initials of the chosen ones. Whomever it may be, the community anxiously awaits the theme and colors so they can start preparing their costumes for the 37th Official Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4. For additional information, visit SouthernDecadence.COM.
Marcy Marcell Goes Out in Style; $3,644.94 to be Donated to Charity
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he Grand Send-Off for the Queen of North Rampart Marcy Marcell was everything the late legend asked for, and maybe even more. The GLBT community came together to raise the funds necessary to grant the final wishes of Marcy Marcell at the request of Marcy's family. Since $3,644.94 was left after expenses, the family asked that 20% ($728.98) be donated to Akula Foundation (the hospice which cared for Marcy), 40% ($1,457.98) to Buzzy’s Boys & Girls, and 40% ($1,457.98) to Food For Friends in Marcy name. Saturday, May 14th fulfilled Marcy Marcell’s final wishes which included a Votive Memorial Mass at St. Anna’s Episcopal Church brilliantly officiated by Fr. Bill Terry. It was followed by the Jazz Second Line Funeral Parade through the streets of the French Quarter ending in the Marigny which began with Marcy's urn in a white horse drawn glass hearse, followed by four trolleys, two carriages and hundreds of second liners, led by the Pair A Dice Tumblers Dixieland Brass Band. The parade ended with the Celebration of Life Party & Buffet hosted by JoAnn Guidos and Lisa Thomas at Kajun’s Pub. And
the closeout for the evening was the Marcy Marcell Tribute Show hosted by John Vignone and Paul Chiriaco at JohnPaul’s. Since all expenses were met, Marcy's final wish came to fruition allowing all of the tribute performers to keep their stage performance tips. The family asked Ambush to administer the funds and pay all expenses for Marcy’s final wishes. Fundraisers brought in $8,940.25 with $5,295.31 in expenses leaving $3,644.94 for charity. The complete financial report is below. The first fundraiser hosted at Kajun’s Pub raised $1,280 including a $50 donation from Marty & Koo. The second fundraiser hosted at Tubby’s Golden Lantern raised $912 with $200 as a donation from Colette Ambrose, owner of Le Roundup. The third fundraiser hosted at Kajun’s Pub raised $2,329.25 including a $50 donation from Marty & Koo. The fourth fundraiser at Club LAX raised $400 including a $50 donation from Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. The fifth fundraiser hosted at Oz raised $1,140 with door $500 ($165 donated by Oz), tips $234, 50/50 raffle $136 (with $68 donated back by winner Sam), poster sales $120, Corner Pocket donation $100, and Bruce Frederick donation $50. The sixth fundraiser hosted at Cutter’s raised $794 including $90 in poster sales. The auction of the only special 20x30 Larry Graham Marcy Marcell Queen of Rampart Street French Quarter Legends poster framed by Counseling and Psychotherapy Couples, individuals, communication skills, coming out, relationship issues, grief and substance abuse. Gay therapist for Lesbian and Gay Issues.
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Angle Frames brought in $1,000 from John Vignone and Paul Chiriaco of JohnPaul’s at the May 14th Marcy Marcell Tribute Show ending the Grand Send-Off for Marcy at JohnPaul’s. Donations included: $25-Rose S., Lawrenceville, NJ; $200-Richard K.T., New Orleans; $50-Bebe S., Woodside, NY; $50 DB Carnes & Caroline Hymann, New Orleans; $100 Thomas Schoonenberg, New Orleans; $180 Ken Carleton including one [continued on 12]
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“Besides being a night of provocative theatre that will lead audiences through an exploration of sexuality, Adult Petting Zoo is also a creative incubator,” explains Fringe Performance Coordinator, Emilie Whelan, “Through FATI (Fringe Alternative Theatre Incubator), the Fringe has commissioned the creation of new, local work, recognizing that artists need resources and support for the creative process.” Adult Petting Zoo is for mature audiences, ages 18 and up. The Fringe is a 501(c)3 non-profit that was founded by local arts organizers to nurture fearless theater in New Orleans and to benefit artists, venues, neighborhoods and local businesses. For more information, visit www.nofringe.org.
Library Leaders Return to New Orleans June 23-28
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the "official" dish ...from 10 poster, Forest, MS; $100 Tom “Rona” Conners & Bob Boler, Plantation, FL; $100 Arthur Severio, New Orleans; and $100 Kenny Petit, New Orleans. Additional poster sales brought in $180. Total Revenues: $8,940.25 Expenses included: $3,550-Hearse & 4 Trolleys $500-Church Donation $800-Police Escort $50.25-Parade Permit $278.78-Funeral Spray $21.74-Guest Book $18.56-Case Beer/Band $3.98-Case Water/Band $72-Keg Beer/Band Total Expenses: $5,295.31 The family and Ambush would like to thank all who made Marcy's final wishes a reality. It would not have been possible without each and every one of you.
New Orleans Fringe Sultry Night of Theater at Adult Petting Zoo June 11-19
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he New Orleans Fringe Festival invites you to a night of boundary-pushing and titillating performance at its third annual Adult Petting Zoo. Using the Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude) as its playpen, Adult Petting Zoo will take you on a tour through the sultry New Orleans night, where the exhibits of fashion design, burlesque, song and theatre, come to life and break out of their cages to explore sexuality in New Orleans and beyond. Shows run Sat.
June 11 at 11pm, Sun. June 12 at 8pm, Fri-Sat, June 17-18 at 11pm and Sun., June 19 at 8pm. Tickets are $15 available online at www.nofringe.org or at the door. The evening’s naughty line-up includes all original pieces. Desiree Burch, New York writer, performer, and alt-comedy diva, brings her beautiful, sexy self south to the Zoo for an encore performance of the 2010 New Orleans Fringe hit 52 Man Pick-Up. 52 Man Pick Up tells the story of one woman’s sexual escapades and adventures through the dark underbelly of New York City dating. Like a jazz master, Burch effortlessly mixes riffs, rants, anecdotes, audience participation, uproarious comedy and devastating poetry, as she serves up the freshest catch of NYC’s most eligible, and invites audiences “go fish” through this deck of hilariously true, unadulterated adult stories.
Two beings of unparalleled perversion, Evan Spigelmen and Nat Kusinitz are Ms. Asa Metric and Ms. Enola Gay (last seen as Hedwig and Yitzhak in Skin Horse Theater’s production of Hedwig and the Angry Inch), the audience’s guides through the evening’s adventurous exhibits. Future Creatures, a group of young New Orleans designers, Elizabeth Chen, Enrica Ferrero, Katie Gelfand, Jacob Reptile, will present a new line of clothing, designed exclusively to embody the theme of “Adult Petting Zoo”. Local performer, Stylist B., delivers her tutorial on pregnancy, The Takeover; a gritty portrayal of what it is to have your body literally taken over by another. And it’s impossible to have a show that pushes the borders of adult play without one of the city’s favorite art forms, burlesque. Bella Blue, one of New Orleans’ premier dancers and a member of Fleur-de-Tease, and Lady Lucerne, from Queens and a recent addition to the NOLA burlesque scene, present two new pieces to tease audiences through the night, New Orleans style.
n 2006, the American Library Association (ALA) was the first national organization to host a convention in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina devastated the region in 2005. As New Orleans continues to push to rebuild, the ALA National Conference will return along with more than 20,000 library leaders and supporters June 23-28. Hundreds of conference attendees will donate their time and participate in “Libraries Build Communities,” a volunteer endeavor that will support local schools, public libraries and community groups with rebuilding efforts. The ALA Annual Conference is the largest library gathering of its kind in the world. The event will offer more than 2,000 meetings, special events, tours and programs on various topics affecting libraries and librarians. Key issues of discussion will include budget cuts, ebooks, technology and the changing roles of libraries. Other conference highlights include presentations from award-winning author C.J. Cherryh; #1 New York Times best-selling author Harlan Coben; former United States military analyst best known for releasing the Pentagon Papers, Daniel Ellsberg; Wikimedia Foundation executive director Sue Gardner; author, co-host and managing editor of NPR’s “On The Media” Brooke Gladstone; New York Times bestselling author J.A. Jance; author, reporter, blogger and professor Jeff Jarvis; best-selling children’s author and illustrator William Joyce; one of Time magazine’s most influential people and award-winning author Jeff Kinney; writer-producer David Simon; mystery author Laura Lippman; New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson; author and founder of the “It Gets Better” campaign Dan Savage; Emmynominated actress and author Molly Shannon; professor and author Siva Vaidhyanathan. For more information on the 2011 Annual Conference, please visit www.ala.org/annual.
Lou Chibbaro Jr. to be Inducted in Journalists’ Hall of Fame
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eteran Washington Blade reporter Lou Chibbaro, Jr. will be inducted into the So ciety of Professional Journalists DC Pro Chapter’s Hall of Fame on June 14th. Chibbaro has covered the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in Washington with distinction for more than 30 years as a reporter with the national’s oldest LGBT newspaper, the Washington Blade. The induction of Lou Chibbaro, Jr. into the Society’s Hall of Fame on June 14th will mark the first time ever that a member of the LGBT community’s press has been chosen for such an honor. [continued on 14]
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the "official" dish ...from 12 “The criteria for this honor are simple: good journalism, practiced in Washington for at least 25 years,” said Steve Taylor, a member of the Board of Directors of the Society of Professional Journalists DC Pro Chapter. “Some giants of journalism have preceded Lou into the Hall of Fame such as Ben Bradlee, Eleanor Clift, Jim Lehrer, Robert Novak and Helen Thomas. We believe that, based on his excellent work, Lou Chibbaro, Jr. deserves to stand with them. We are honored that he has accepted induction.” Throughout his distinguished career, Chibbaro has covered some of the LGBT community’s most momentous stories including the AIDS crisis, anti-gay job discrimination, hate crimes and presidential politics. “I was surprised and highly honored,” Chibbaro said. “It came as a complete surprise. … It’s a true honor to be selected in the company of others who have won this in the past. I believe the community benefits most by shedding light on the issues around it as fairly as possible and with each side given equal opportunity to express their views on an issue that might be controversial.” The Washington Blade was founded in 1969 as a black and white, one-sheet community newsletter distributed in D.C.-area bars. In October 2009, the Blade celebrated its 40th anniversary as an award-winning news source with a large following in print and online. Readers locally and around the world have come to rely on the Blade’s unmatched coverage of LGBT news, earning the paper the moniker “the newspaper of record for the LGBT community. You can read the Washington Blade online at: www.washingtonblade.com . You can also follow the Washington Blade on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/ washingtonblade or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/washingtonblade.
Presbyterian Church (USA) Vote Affirms LGBT Clergy Called to Serve the Church
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he Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, applauded the decision of the Presbyterian Church (USA) to remove all barriers to the ordination of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people as ministers and lay leaders. The Twin Cities Presbytery in Minneapolis, Minn. became the 87th presbytery (regional governing bodies) in the 2.4 million member denomination to vote to allow LGBT clergy and lay people the right to serve openly as ministers. “History was made today,” said Dr. Sharon Groves, director of HRC’s Religion and Faith Program. “Presbyteries
all around the country – from Alabama to Utah – voted to say no to prejudice and yes to those who are called to serve the church. Through this action, the Presbyterian Church (USA) removes one more road block in the way of justice. Because of today’s decision, a young person is freer to claim his or her sexual orientation, gender identity and religion. This decision will have profound ramifications for people of all faiths everywhere. Today’s decision is the result of a long process. Three other times, a vote was taken in the Presbyterian General Assembly to open the doors to LGBT clergy, but did not reach the 51% ratification by regional presbyteries. Because of the hard and faithful work by organizations such as More Light Presbyterians, Covenant Network of Presbyterians, That All May Freely Serve, Presbyterian Welcome, and Presbyterian Voices for Justice, the Presbyterian Church (USA) can hold its head high today. The Human Rights Campaign is deeply grateful to the decades of tremendous dedication these faithful organizations have devoted to making our religious traditions more loving places for all of us. We are all the beneficiaries of their labor and we at HRC are deeply grateful. “This is not only good for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people but it is good for the soul of the church,” added Groves. “LGBT Presbyterians have been some of the most prophetic and faithful leaders within the Presbyterian church and now they can bring their faith and their humanity fully into the work of building loving, God-affirming communities.” 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.
LBGT Groups Urge Orbitz to Pull Ads from Fox News Over Anti-Gay Rhetoric
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edia Matters kicked off its DropFox campaign by urging Orbitz (OWW), an online travel site, to pull its ads from the anti-LBGT Fox News network. Three high-profile gay rights organizations— GLAAD, Courage Campaign and Equality Matters—signed the letter to Orbitz CEO Barney Harford asking that the company no longer support Fox News through ad revenue. Media Matters’ multi-issue DropFox campaign aims to hold Fox News accountable for its hate speech, misinformation, and other alarming deviations from the usual standards of a news organization. This campaign includes an online ad com-
ponent to raise awareness about Orbitz’s financial support for Fox News.”Orbitz risks alienating gay and lesbian customers by giving ad dollars to Fox News, a network that blatantly promotes an anti-gay political agenda,” said Ilyse Hogue, Senior Adviser at Media Matters. “Orbitz customers who value equality can and will take their business elsewhere, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Any company whose customer base values the diversity, civil rights, and journalistic standards should recognize that doing business with Fox will only cost them in the long run.”Fox News’ history of destructive anti-gay language and actions includes: ·Giving Mike Huckabee his own show despite Huckabee’s history of comparing homosexuality to drug abuse, incest, pedophilia, and necrophilia. Huckabee has repeatedly used his Fox platform to campaign against gay marriage, and he has suggested that marriage equality poses a threat to stable society. ·Bill O’ Reilly repeatedly using his popular prime time show to warn against the “dangers” of allowing gay people near children, to assert that same-sex marriage could lead to polygamy, nuptials with turtles, ducks or dolphins, and to claim that implementing a hate crimes bill could protect pedophiles. ·Perpetuating the claim that repealing Don’t Ask Don’t Tell would impact troop readiness and morale, despite multiple reports — including the Pentagon’s — to the contrary. Orbitz’s gay-specific travel site has been warmly received, has resulted in higher quality service for the LGBT community and has achieved an increase in growth for Orbitz. In the last few years, leading LGBT organizations such as GLAAD have recognized the great work that Orbitz has done in partnering with and catering to the LGBT community.” Companies, especially ones with strong track records of LGBT inclusion, should think twice before supporting Fox News’ pervasive pattern of indefensible bias against our community,” said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios. “Orbitz is an industry leader in supporting our community and we urge them to send a message that Fox News’ attacks are unacceptable.” ”Orbitz loves gay dollars and, we hope, LGBT people, but by funding homophobes and charlatans like hosts Bill O’Reilly and Mike Huckabee, Orbitz sends the wrong message,” said Courage Campaign Founder and Chair Rick Jacobs. “Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people can go to plenty of other travel sites. We count on Orbitz to do the right thing and stop buying advertising on Fox News Channel so that LGBT people can continue to shop with Orbitz. The alternatives are clear.” A Media Matters analysis of cover-
age on everything from gay marriage to the repeal of DADT to gay individuals supports a conclusion that Fox’s coverage is driven by an anti-LGBT political agenda and cannot be considered unbiased news. Media Matters will continue to hold Fox News accountable for its indefensible rhetoric through its DropFox campaign. Fox News has engaged in years of anti-LGBT bigotry and smears: ·Fox News contributor Tucker Carlson wants kids to know the “unhappy facts” about gay people (April 19, 2011) ·Fox Nation, anti-gay hate group united in opposition to protecting LGBT individuals worldwide (March 24, 2011)· Huckabee uses role at Fox News to launch anti-gay attacks (March 2, 2011) ·Fox attacks LGBT history bill as “propaganda” from “pro-gay agenda” (December 20, 2010) ·During discussion of gay-themed McDonald’s ad, O’Reilly asks: “Do they have an al-Qaeda ad?” (June 3, 2010) ·LGBT groups criticize O’Reilly for “equating gays” with “terrorists” (June 3, 2010) ·Fox News contributor goes off on anti-gay rant (January 6, 2010) ·In vicious new smear, Rove falsely claims Jennings advocated for NAMBLA (October 7, 2009) ·Fox Nation, Washington Examiner manufacture Jennings-NAMBLA link (October 2, 2009) ·Glenn Beck depicts “Barney Frank To The Rescue” (June 29, 2009) ·Discussing “very important story,” O’Reilly asks, “I can’t figure out how they know the penguins are gay... Do they wear tight t-shirts?” (June 10, 2009) ·In “Street Meat” graphic, FBN’s Bolling pictures Rep. Barney Frank “appropriately positioned...catching, of course” (May 11, 2009) ·Gingrich: “[T]here is a gay and secular fascism in this country that wants to impose its will on the rest of us” (November 17, 2008) ·O’Reilly: “[T]housands” of gays in one place “can be confusing to children” (July 13, 2007) ·O’Reilly: To “cluster” gays near children is “insane” and “inappropriate” (July 12, 2007) ·Coulter:”I don’t think there’s anything offensive about any variation of faggy, faggotry, faggot, fag” (March 7, 2007) ·Fox’s Hill on Clinton’s “Southern drawl”: “[I]f she was attending, say, a GLAAD convention, would she speak with a lisp?” (March 6, 2007) ·O’Reilly logic: If kids of gay parents were equally healthy, why wouldn’t eating cupcakes cause pregnancy? (December 14, 2006) ·O’Reilly on ban of Irish lesbian and gay group from NYC St. Patrick’s Day parade: “I don’t want these peopleintruding on a parade where little children are...watching.” (March 21, 2006)
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
A Midsummer’s Night Dream at NOMA’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden through May 27
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tart with one of Shakespeare’s more accessible comedies. Place it in a transcendently gorgeous setting, where nature’s beauty has been enhanced by man’s artistry and adorned with sculptural master-
works.
Let it be helmed by a director who is scrupulously attentive to Shakespeare’s language and the characters’ personalities yet imaginative enough to take full advantage of his pastoral venue. Finish with a 21 member cast all perfectly in tune with their parts and able to speak the Bard’s words trippingly. The result? The NOLA Project’s A Midsummer ’s Night Dream in
Indiana’s LOVE sculpture remains in sight throughout the second section to comment tacitly on the proceedings. For the play’s conclusion, the director delivers a coup de théâtre (coup de Jardin?) that has to be seen to be believed. Larimer is abetted by a cast that goes beneath the “Shakespearean” dialog to find the human impulses that drive these characters, even when they’re gods and fairies. And despite
I also especially liked A.J. Allegra’s meticulous, academic Peter Quince; anyone who has ever directed a show could easily identify with him as he attempts to shape the performance of Pyramus & Thisbe by his fellow rude mechanicals—fun stuff. Kudos, too, to Titania’s five fairies who found humor in often overlooked parts. To be sure, the acting occasionally becomes a bit broad but given the setting and Larimer’s pleasingly “concept”-free approach one can overlook a sometime lack of subtlety. I do question, however, Larimer’s casting of a woman as Bottom, the weaver who, transformed into an ass, becomes Titania’s love object. Though Emilie Whelan was quite wonderful in the role, it seems to me Shakespeare was explicitly commenting on how men act like, well, asses around the fairer sex and an actress takes the edge off this somewhat. In any case, Shauna Leone’s costumes—creamy whites and beiges for the mortals, a riot of colors for the rest—were just right. Scenic designer
Kristin Witterschein, Zach Rogers, Sean Glazebrook & Veronica Hunsinger-Loe in A Midsummer’s Night Dream NOMA’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden, one of the best Shakespeare productions New Orleans has seen in over twenty years. Using a 90 minute version of Dream that, nonetheless, captures all the play’s narrative and linguistic highlights, Director Andrew Larimer keeps the staging of the scenes relatively simple yet makes fantastic use of the spaces throughout the Garden; what a pleasure it is to see the actors running long distances at full throttle as the script would have them do rather than be confined by a proscenium. While Larimer uses the sculptures in the Garden mostly as silent ornamentation, one becomes the butt of a memorable visual pun and Robert
noisy distractions from planes, trains and automobiles, they employed exemplary projection so that even the back rows could understand their wellenunciated lines. If there were no stand-outs in the cast, that only speaks to how wellmatched all the actors were, each performing at a consistently high level of quality. This was especially true of the four young lovers; if Veronica Hunsinger-Loe’s romantically challenged Helena tended to steal the show’s spotlight, as Helena often does, Kristin Witterschein’s Hermia, Sean Glazebrook’s Demetrius and Zach Rogers’ Lysander were each equally well-etched and differentiated individuals.
Phil Cramer made a small but telling contribution with a verdant bower for Titania. Dream has one more performance on May 27. Even if Mother Nature does not grant you as perfect weather as she did Dream’s first performance, do not miss these 100 minutes of theatrical magic.
A Chorus Line at Rivertown Repertory Theatre through May 29
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s the first performance of Rivertown Rep’s A Chorus Line began with I Hope I Get It, the orchestra sounded a little
wan and the cast a bit tentative, and I braced myself for a middling to good community theater production of this groundbreaking musical. But soon there was Jesse Alan Forcha’s vibrant I Can Do That followed by the affecting At the Ballet with Andrea Watson, Lacey Faucheux and Leslie Limberg. And after the cast came out high-kicking in gold suits and top hats for the finale, the curtain fell on one of the best, most moving musical productions New Orleans has enjoyed in a while. At 35 years old, Chorus Line’s story and score still hold up even if the show reflects a world we might now regard as quaint with no cell phones or blogs or incessant texting. What struck me most, however, is that the original cast members, whose story Chorus Line tells, are now in their 60s, despite being captured, as though in amber, in their iconic youthful poses for Chorus Line’s initial logo. Though I generally feel directors should take interpretative chances with classics, Chorus Line does not provide much wiggle room. It requires a bare stage with a line on it, floor-toceiling mirrored panels that can revolve to black sections, and nothing more, except for a cast of extremely talented actor/singer/dancers. Maybe some day someone will present it with an entirely new approach, but it will be hard to top the old one. While staging Chorus Line’s basics with assurance, Director Patrick M. Mendelson wisely guided his cast to bring out the characters’ individual qualities and they responded by, in the words of Morales, “digging right down to the bottom of their souls.” Carrie Black’s sassy Val (Dance Ten Looks Three), Maria Karras’ eager-to-please Diana (Nothing), and Watson’s Sheila, whose tough exterior conceals a more tender inner self, are all stand-outs, each actress expertly fulfilling the demands of these wonderful roles. As the director Zach, a stand-in for Michael Bennett who conceived, directed and choreographed the original production, Clayton Mazoue’ cut an authoritative, demanding figure yet conveyed how much he valued all those auditioning for him. Smaller parts, like Connie and Richie, are lit up, by Anna Toujas Rosenberg and Jermaine L. Keelen, respectively, with a fullness of spirit as well. And to give you an idea of how strong this cast is, even featured roles are taken by such strong, Ambie Awardwinning performers as Limberg, Keith D. Claverie and Kenneth Thompson, all in fine form here. Though about ten years too young for Paul (and just barely passable as Puerto Rican), Ryan Jones gave an appropriately simple yet emotionally [continued on 24]
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St. Anna's, Streets of the Quarter & Marigny, Kajun's Pub, JohnPaul's ~ Photos by Ambush, Pompo Bresciani, Larry Graham, KimWelsh
Queen of Rampart Street Marcy Marcell Grand Send-Off with the Pair A Dice Tumblers Dixieland Brass Band ~ New Orleans
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Corynne Deville helps raise $794 @ Marcy’s Lucky #13 fundraiser hosted by Cutter’s
Frankie Fierce & James do Oz’s Britney Bitch Party
Shan'yia Ellis Narcisse in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Paulina Montenegro joins Marcy’s Grand Send-Off @ Oz Hosts Persana Shoulders & Frankie Fierce flank Tommy, Trey & Riley @ Oz’s Pink Party
Syleena Black in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
snap paparazzi
Shelby Hart on stage @ Marcy’s Grand Send-Off @ Oz
Richie & friends in for Oz’s Pink Party Miss Tubby's Golden Lantern Mercedes Ellis Loreal in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Frankie Fierce hosts Oz’s Beach Party
Award recipients from the Saints & Sinners Literary Fest closing party
Divas R Us MC Lady Hope & Show Director Rikki Redd TJ, Lyndsey & Chad @ Saints & Sinners opening event @ Hotel Monteleone
Monalot Fontaine @ Oz for Marcy’s Grand Send-Off
Marco Marcell & Melissa Marquis in Marcy’s Grand Send-0ff @ Oz
Bianca Del Rio, Tommy Elias & Blanche Debris @ Oz Sunday Dingo
Host Persana, hot Man of Oz & Dusty Debris @ Oz’s Beach Party
Miss Tubby's Newcomer Imani Cassadine Black in Divas R Us @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Enjoying cocktails @ 700 Club
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Shows, Parties & More ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Frankie Wingerter
Catherine Czindula, Corynne Deville, Pride Grand Marshal Misti Ates & Gino New Orleans help raise $1,140 for Marcy Marcell’s Grand Send-Off @ Oz
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trodding the boards ...from 16
Happy Birthday Aaron ...we love YOU!!
More Gay Pride ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John
Brandon with Pensacola’s Taylor Heart performing @ B-Bob’s
Princess Judy with Stevie @ B-Bob’s Gay Pride Bash
New Orleans’ Tony visiting B-Bob’s with B-Bob’s show director Miss Cie Order of Osiris Queen Michelle XXX, with Peter & Thomas
devastating account of his family’s discovery of his performing as a pony dancer, long before La Cage, Ru Paul and Priscilla made drag chic. Jones’ achievement is all the more impressive since he assumed the role just three days before the opening. Not only does Jaune Buisson Hebert incisively capture the pride, insecurities and determination of Cassie, Zach’s ex-lover and a former semi-star who now desperately needs a job (a haunting and still relevant leitmotif of the script), but she did a wonderful job of choreographing, sensitive to the demands the lyrics place on the dances (“Step, kick, kick, leap, kick, touch...”) but making them her own creations as well. Hebert’s choreography combines with Mendelson’s direction to create a seamless whole and, in the process, along with Scott Sauber’s mood-enhancing, precise lighting, a series of beautiful images on stage. One might’ve asked for a little more nuance from some of the acting but, for a show that first and foremost requires strong singer/dancers, this is understandable; it certainly wouldn’t surprise me if, after two weeks of performances, this has developed naturally. Once past the opening, the orchestra played sensitively and surely under the ever-reliable Alan Payne’s direction. As it celebrates the joys and challenges of creativity, this Chorus Line is too good to miss. Let’s hope the theater gods will allow it a life beyond Kenner.
Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at the Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts through May 28
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papar azzi
B-Bob’s owner Jerry with DJ Leroy, serving up “ Pride Around the World”
Regine Phillips with Bryant & Jeremy @ B-Bob’s College Thursdays
Order of Phoenix King & Queen Denny & Veronica @ Mobile Gay Pride
Tammy & Dakota visiting Mobile for Gay Pride
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or its penultimate subscription offering this season, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra presented a concert version of Gilbert & Sullivan’s first international hit, H.M.S. Pinafore, a satire of Britain’s class-consciousness as well as patriotism, politicians, and the rise of unqualified people to positions of authority. (Sound familiar?) James Paul’s conducting was crisp yet gave the slower passages their full due. The LPO responded with a skilled performance, well-attuned to Sullivan’s music. Not surprisingly, the assembled cast, all of whom had lovely voices, was comprised of stronger singers than actors. This mattered less in the more dramatic Act Two than in the first act when requisite expository passages tended to cause things to drag a bit. Still, rising opera star Sarah Jane
McMahon, a 2005 Ambie Award-winner for West Side Story, combined heartfelt singing with a dynamic personality to make Josephine, the Captain’s Daughter who loves a mere sailor, feisty yet touching, wily yet warm. Her The Hours Creep on Apace was the evening’s vocal highlight prompting applause even from the conductor. In addition to a full-bodied voice, Dennis James as Captain Corcoran brought an appealing depth to the typical G&S stylized acting. Scott Ramsey (Ralph Rackstraw) sang with beautifully pliant tones and, though switched at birth with Josephine’s father (don’t question the plot’s absurdity), could have passed for a younger version of Corcoran (which makes one wonder if Josephine has a Daddy fixation). Suitably pompous, Frederick Reeder made for a crafty Sir Joseph Porter, though his diction could have been improved. As stage director, he did a serviceable job but when the performers weren’t facing in your direction on the Mahalia Jackson Theater’s vast stage, Gilbert’s lyrics tended to get lost. Similarly, the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans sang heartily and with overall good diction though they were sometimes overpowered by the orchestra. Featured as the boatswain’s mate Bill Bobstay, David Castillo, who recently gave an outstanding portrayal of the Husband in Loyola’s Les Mamelles de Tirésias, is a fine singing actor; as he goes on to pursue his career, let’s hope he’ll return often to New Orleans. I would just wonder about the casting of Derrian Tolden as Dick Deadeye, the misshapen bad guy of the piece. Though the LPO might have thought having a black man say the line, “when people have to obey other people’s orders, equality’s out of the question”, would give it added weight, such subtlety was lost in the performance. Instead, it seemed as though an African-American was cast as the villain, and even if it was done unintentionally, it left a bad taste in the mouth. Now I would hate to take work away from Tolden or anyone else, and perhaps the LPO was trying to convey a noble message, but they might have thought about either casting another black singer in one of the other roles to balance things out or just not casting anyone based on race (as well as talent of course; Tolden handled the role adeptly). The LPO season concludes on May 28 with The Music of Michael Jackson which sounds like a lot of fun; imagine Beat It, Thriller and ABC played by a full orchestra. Next season begins on October 1 and will feature Joshua Bell, a world premiere by Ellen Taaffe Zwilich, and lots of symphonies from Mozart & Beethoven to Mahler & Prokofiev.
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pensacola papar azzi
The crowd living it up @ Emerald City’s Drink & Drown
Andy & Andrea out on the prowl @ Emerald City
Nadya & Timothy for “The Men of Pensacola Calender” release party @ Emerald City Rick & Phil @ The Other Side
Regine Phillips, Marcella Jerri Elite-Phillips & Andrea Annaliese @ Emerald City Mr. August 2012 Chad
Terry always in the middle of something @ Emerald City
Tony & Steven @ Emerald City
Chris & Doug all smiles at the calender release party @ Emerald City
The lovely Miss Penny Holliday of Emerald City
Jon Thomas trying to focus for Emerald City’s Drink & Drown
Taylor Heart & Cole @ Emerald City
Mr. May 2012 Steven & Mr. June 2012 Josh from “The Men of Pensacola Calender”
Mr. July 2012 Jon of “The Men of Pensacola Calender”
Mr. Feb 2012 Jesus Neives, the wonderful photographer for “The Men of Pensacola Calender”
Emerald City’s very own Gaga, Miss Taylor Heart
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Lights, Camera, Action! ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell
Lamont all smiles holding five men at once
pensacola dish by Lauren Mitchell E-mail: dishpensacola@aol.com
Circuit Parties, Headliner Wynter Gordon, DJs, Stars this Memorial Day Weekend May 26th-30th
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ell, it’s here…Memorial Day Weekend, the big holiday we all look forward to. All the preparations have been made and the parties are a go. The question I have been getting the most is, “Who is performing where and are there any drag shows?” Here is the low-down: Thursday, May 26th kicks off with FOREPLAY at Emerald City with DJ Robbie C. All of you “early-birds” will love this party. Friday afternoon, May 27th, our regular Bingo turns into BITCH BINGO with the arrival of Miss Bianca Del Rio from 6pm to 8pm. Get there early to get a table or stool, it tends to become standing-room-only. Friday night at WAVE on Pensacola Beach the theme is Luau, so grab your favorite grass skirt and coconut bra. DJ Roland Belmares will be on hand along with lighting wizard, Bryan Holcombe. There will be several performances at WAVE. One will feature
myself, Lauren Mitchell, accompanied by the Jewels of the Emerald Coast (Penny Holliday, Ebony Sinclair, Valerie Heart and Monica Heart). The other performers you will have to come out and see. The only hint I can give you is that it will be really HOT… and not to be missed!!! Friday, Saturday and Sunday there will be spotlight numbers from the Jewels of the Emerald Coast throughout the night at Emerald City. Saturday night, May 28th will be the SWEAT party at Emerald City featuring DJ Eddie Baez. The club will be jumping so get there early! Sunday night, May 29th, at ABRACADABRA, DJ Joe Gauthreaux will team up with Bryan Holcombe for a sound and light extravaganza at the Pensacola Civic Center! The featured headliner is international recording artist, Wynter Gordon, performing her [continued on 29]
ABRACADABRA Headliner Wynter Gordon
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An Array of Gelati & Sorbetti including Watermelon, Pistachio, coconut, strawberry, sugar free chocolate, and stracciatella along with gluten free, sugar free, and dairy free @ Little Vic's Gelateria, reopening soon 719 Toulouse St.
chop chop
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.
by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
New Orleans Restaurant Guide
Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place
Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy
Custom Breakfast @ Krystal, Bourbon St. @ Canal St.
12 oz. Blackened Ribeye @ Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 3162 Dauphine 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. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 945.0742, TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. The chef has paid 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 globe trotting 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, 719 Toulouse St., will serve over 40 inventive flavors of gelato, including stracciatella, amaretto, bacio de gama, and limoncello, as well as fresh-made panino, pastries, and Lavazza espresso. Re-opening soon. 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. Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, is located in a beautiful renovated 1809 building offering a pleasant atmosphere, extensive wine list with 200 selections, and delicious food including soups, salads, appetizers, entrees and house made desserts that will delight any palate. Open daily at 4pm serving dinner Sun.-Thurs. 5-10:30pm, Fri.-Sat. 5-11pm. 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 7am10pm daily.
Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.
Club Sandwich with Zapp's Potato Chips @ The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart St.
New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.
Red Velvet Cupcakes @ Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St.
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pensacola dish ...from 27 number one dance hit Dirty Talk and her new release Til Death. The night continues with SPELLBOUND after hours party with DJ Wendy Hunt. Monday night, May 30th, at Emerald City is our infamous Memorial Day Drink and Drown, CLIMAX, with two shows at 11:30pm and 1am staring Bianca Del Rio and the cast of Emerald City. DJ Dewight Barkley will be spinning. You can also catch DJ Dewight on Friday and Sunday nights at Emerald City. On the beach front, there is something new for everyone. Emerald City and The Order of Zeus (our local gay Mardi Gras organization), will be hosting a
DJ Joe Gauthreaux @ ABRACADABRA Sunday, May 29th, Pensacola Civic Center
hospitality tent on Pensacola Beach at Park East. This is the same parking lot as the Friday night WAVE party. From 10am till 6pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the hospitality tent will have a full bar. So leave the heavy coolers at home and come out to enjoy some ice cold drinks on our hot beaches. Emerald City will be hosting free bus service from the beach to Emerald City on Saturday night. There will also be free bus service on Sunday night from the beach to ABRACADABRA and SPELLBOUND. The busses will be loading and unloading at Casino Beach every 30 minutes. So, no need to
worry about traffic on the bridges! On local news, I would like to give Drue Christopher Promotions a big thank you. They raised over $2,500 with raffles and the Men of Pensacola Calendar to be donated to our local non-profit organization, Gay Grassroots. Well, that’s all for now. Until next time …if I survive the holiday weekend!
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CANAL STREET
100 IBERVILLE
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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 CHARLIE-NOLA'S BODY RUB SPECIALIST: Pics/Rates/Info @ www.men4rentnow.com, search by ID#235049, 504.451.7874 [is1111] Experience The BODY ELECTRIC, nude rub, erotic, hot oils, full service table, deep tissue, light tissue, body scrubs. In & out calls. CALL AL 214.709.5199 [is1111]
RT PA M A R
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] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416
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
hair salons
New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 99
casinos New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS
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
florists
book stores
cable shows
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
antiques
KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735 LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 MICHAEL'S ON THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St 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 SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156. TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, TubbysBar.COM Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921
chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is1111]
circuit/events 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 Feb. 17-21, 2012, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012, 13th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM
counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, PhD, LPC, Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000
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
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 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 ameni-
30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 24-J une 6, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Gay East erParade.COM • May 24-J une 6, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31
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 [is1111]
museum/arts
ties 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]
Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square,
Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666
organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday 12:15pm Solumn Mass, 5pm Praise & Worship, at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340,
w w w . b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , pastor@bigeasymcc.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, Email: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 701566836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. IN THIS TOGETHER, HIV/AIDS Case Management, 2511 Bayou Road, Suite B, 70119; Office: 504.962.3245, Fax: 504.962.3246; 962.3245, w w w.inthistogetherinc.org, michael@ittnola.org KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, info@kreweofarmeinius.org, 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
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MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, PO Box 15889, 70115-5889 MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM N'R Peace, 3201 Gen. DeGaulle Dr., Suite 201, 70114, 364.1950 OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION: NOLA PRIDE, 2114 Decatur St., 945.1103, NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 Softball: NOLA SOFTBALL LEAGUE, nolasoftball.com 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] PIPES "R" US PLUMBING, “Let us PEEP in your pipes”, 140 N. Carrollton Ave., Office 504.866.2730, Fax 504.484.0907,
PipesRUsNewOrleans.COM 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
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 Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 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, 719 Toulouse St. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 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, 4636 W. Esplanade, 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] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 SOUTHERN REP THEATRE, Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 3rd Floor, 522.6545, SouthernRep.COM
websites CRESCENT CITY, CrescentCity.COM GAY AMERICA, GayAmerica.COM GAY BARS, GayBars.COM GAY PENSACOLA, GayPensacola.COM
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acadiana
papar azzi
Jeremiah & Thomas, a mess? Miss Valerie Sugarbaker
Two cute smiles @ Jules
Kasi enjoying Jules
Rick, Ernie & Nick @ Agave Another amazing night @ Tonic’s Tuesday Talent Show
Michael & John enjoying Cinco de Mayo margaritas
Jules bartenders Steven & Ryan Tyler performing @ Jules Karaoke
Josh Duffy & Sam @ Jules
Mandy Michelle, Tayler & Brandon @ Tonic
”I’m wasted” explains Thomas
Delanie Valentine returns to the stage @ Tonic
Ryan is all smiles
Your staff at Jules, ready to serve you
Adam & Darren @ Jules
Becca & Andre dancing @ Agave
Ryan probably doesn’t remember this photo
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Cinco de Mayo, The Club Scene ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins
Rick enjoying Cinco de Mayo @ Agave
Mattie performing her heart out @ Tonic
acadiana happens by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com Twitter: JoeyC_583
A
re you ready? It’s time to get wild. I mean like Summer-wild. Have you rolled up those pants? Are you orange, aka tanned yet? Before the fun begins, let’s take a moment to get serious about something.
House Bill 112
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n case you were unaware, something has been stirring in the State Legislature this session. Louisiana House Bill 112 is an anti-bullying bill that, if passed, will hold public schools and faculty members accountable for bullying based on personal characteristics, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, political persuasion, and physical and mental disabilities. It would also define bullying as any written, verbal, or physical act directed by a student at another student on school property or at school sponsored events. This bill is ground-breaking for the state of Louisiana. For the first time State Legislatures are willing to work with us and are being so bold as to
reach out to our community and include us in a bill that would protect many students who suffer from daily bullying. If we, as a community, do not take the time to contact our State Legislatures in Baton Rouge then we will have failed to come together and push for what we so often wish and speak of. Now is the time to contact your State Representatives and Senators and let them know who you are, that you are a voter, and that you are a supporter or a member of the LGBT community, and that you also support House Bill 112 and ask for their support on this as well. From my own personal experience with fighting for or against certain bills at the State Capitol, I found it amazing how easy it is to make your voice heard. Do not allow that tall, phallic capitol building intimidate you. Anyone is allowed to walk into that capitol building, fill out a short form, and ask to speak with your elected officials whether it is while they’re in committee or sitting on the floor of the House or Senate. Can’t make the trip to Baton Rouge? That’s quite understandable.
Well guess what! Here is what you do: pick up a phone, computer, or the old-fashioned pen and paper. Call, email, and write to your elected officials. Believe it or not, they do hear you. I’ve done it and have already received a few responses from offices of State Representatives. Remember, it is their job to listen to you. You put them there, if you voted. If you didn’t vote, that’s another issue to tackle. Nonetheless, contact your elected officials. As of this moment, House Bill 112 has made it out of the House Education Committee with strong opposition. On Wednesday, May 11th, HB112 was heard before the House Education Committee. Rep. Badon (D-New Orleans), who wrote the bill, remained very head-strong and supportive throughout all opposition. “…I take personal offense when you say that I am trying to promote homosexuality. As a Representative I am trying to do my job, protect citizens of Louisiana. If I can protect at least one student then I have done my job.” In Badon’s closing hearing argument he stated, “Who in the hell gives you the right to decide what is ‘different’? I am glad that I don’t have that kind of hate in my heart…” By the time this issue is published HB112 will have already been brought to the floor of the State House of Representatives. Hopefully with the support of the LGBT community and its
supporters, this bill is passed through the House and sent to the Senate. This means that your help is still needed. Please begin contacting your State Senators and email your State Representatives who voted in favor for this bill and thank them for their support. Many thanks go out to Forum for Equality, Capitol City Alliance, OUTlaw, Representative Badon, and the many others who help with the support of this bill.
Bar Spill
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continue to hear a buzz around what Jules will be up to next. Some worry that it’s been all too quite at 533 Jefferson Street. Yeah, well if that’s what you think then you’re very naïve. That office hidden behind the DJ booth is kept tightly locked with many secrets waiting to be released. The staff of Jules has many hidden surprises right around the corner. I encourage each patron to stick around and wait for what the summer will have to offer. A few changes have already taken place such as new DJ’s and many more Friday night concerts. Thursday nights still offer a chance for you to show how much endowment Acadiana really has. By endowment I meant in the empowerment of one’s voice. You can sing your heart out [continued on 36]
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
HRC Focuses on All Families
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his year’s Human Rights Campaign Louisiana Gala Dinner promises to be a night of unforgettable entertainment while networking with some of the most accomplished people in this city’s LGBT community and beyond. The event will take place on Saturday, June 11 from 6-11pm at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. There is a Federal Club, major donors and corporate partners VIP reception starting at 5pm. The evening’s guest star is everyone’s favorite actress, comedian and LGBT advocate Lily Tomlin who will give a special performance. That alone is worth the price of admission. It is truly a testament to this organization that they can bring someone of this caliber to New Orleans. The keynote speaker this year will be Cuc Vu, the Chief Diversity Officer for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). If you are not familiar with all the great things the HRC does to further the causes of the gay community then you do not want to miss this dinner. Vu provides the vision and strategy to help HRC fulfill its stated commitment to diversity and inclusion at every level of the organization. The position is a first for an LGBT organization and sets an ambitious mark for HRC to unite the strength of its more than one million members and supporters with people of all backgrounds to end discrimination and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Vu has launched a new HRC Women & Leadership program, convened a Diversity & Inclusion Council supported by leaders from both the corporate and non-profit sectors, and initiated a ground-breaking program called Equality Forward that engaged 5,000 LGBT people of color in partnership with more than 100 organizations. The first of its kind, the Equality Forward research results reveal the attitudes and opinions of African American, Latino/a, and Asian Pacific Islander American lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, a part of the LGBT community that is often not heard. Born in Saigon, Viet Nam, Vu grew up in Olympia, Washington, and currently resides in Washington, DC with her wife, Gwen Migita, who were among the first same-sex couples to marry in DC in 2010. Two Equality awards will be presented this year to New Orleans City Councilman at Large Arnie Fielkow
and Erika Knott and Kelly Bryson. Tickets to this event are expected to sell out so act soon to be a part of this special night. To sign up as a table captain or for more information, contact louisianahrc@gmail.com. Tickets are $175 for general admission, $85 Federal Club Members. To order online go to www.hrc.org/boxoffice or call 1.800.494.8497.
Lets’ Play
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wo gay Mardi Gras krewes are presenting theatrical openings in June and they are sure to be huge hits. On Friday, June 10 the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is hosting the opening night of Mildred, Dearest!, another of their famous mash-ups of two of cinema’s most revered movies. Clean your rooms and scrub those floors: Running With Scissors declares war on dirt and dull evenings with a knock-down, drag-out tribute to one of Hollywood’s greatest legends in Mildred, Dearest! – a sidesplitting send-up of Joan Crawford, Comet, and coat hangers starring Brad Caldwell, Jack Long, Lisa Picone, Dorian Rush, and Brian Peterson as Joan. If you have never seen a Running with Scissors production, then you are in for a treat. Come enjoy a night of hilarious entertainment with some of the city’s finest performers in one of the last productions at our beloved le Chat Noir. The show starts at 8pm. Le Chat Noir is located at 715 St. Charles Avenue. Tickets are sure to sell out, so buy your tickets fast. For more information or to buy tickets, call 504.525.4498. Then the Krewe of Petronius is introducing the opening night performance of Greater Tuna on Thursday, June 16 at the Shadowbox Theatre. The show starts at 8pm. The Shadowbox Theatre is located at 2400 St. Claude. For tickets, call 504.701.0631.
Pensacola or Bust
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his may sound hard to believe, but I have never been to Pensacola for Memorial
[continued on 38]
acadiana happens ...from 35 each Thursday night when Blake Duhon hosts a very country-less karaoke night. Friday evenings at Jules will slowly begin to pick up with more concert nights as the summer progresses. Of course Saturday nights will ALWAYS be Dance, Dance, Dance, and more
Dance! Remember to come get your Jules on! Tonic will forever be hosting its Tuesday Night Talent Show. This is the highlight of Tonic’s weekly lineup. Heating up even more is Monday night when Steven Reed and Brodie Lee Meche (not to be confused with Brodie Mess) come together and host Customer Appreciation Night with $1 wells, $2 domestics, and $3 premiums packed with a weekly beer pong tournament. Wednesday night is karaoke night with DJ Chad Evans, Thursday night is Drink-N-Drown with DJ PointN-Click where for only $15 you can drink until you fall down on the floor and struggle to call for a cab to bring you home. Don’t forget to tip your bartender! Finally, do not forget about Happy Hour which happens every Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm to 9pm featuring 2 for 1 wells, wines, and beers. As always, keep in touch by following the visiting the following Facebook groups: Lafayette Lesbians, Lafayette Gay men, Jules, and Tonic, Lafayette. You may also stay up to day via AmbushMag.COM.
Recapping a Night Cap
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kay, so we all know that each year, on the fifth of May, we all become a little bit of Mexican. Some of us may even allow a little bit of Mexican in us. What? I meant the Mexican tequila. Where’s your mind? Cinco de Mayo, which many do not even know what the origin of and is, just as American as apple pie, and those fortune cookies you receive with your stir fry, is yet another holiday that we use as a means to drink, party, and simply go wild. So without a blink of an eye, when the day arrived there was no doubt a table mixed with a group of friends at what is arguably the best place to be for Cinco de Mayo, Agave, would be held in our name. Agave, if you’re unaware, is more of a cantina and grill. It’s definitely more than a simple Tex-Mex restaurant. It’s more of a rustic haven, an experience; nestled in the heart of downtown Lafayette. It’s a venue known for its personal experience, hospitality, eye-candy wait staff, and more importantly the margaritas. Ah, the margaritas which are famously known throughout Acadiana and probably some random village in Mexico. I have bared witness to many strange happenings that occur as a result of too many Agave margaritas and Cinco de Mayo was definitely no exception to the rule. Let me try to quickly set the stage for you. The restaurant was packed, the band was hot, the crowd was hopping on the dance floor, and the drinks were flowing. Our table, which was right in front of the band and dance floor, I will refer to as TableGM as in Table of Gay Mess.
TableGM quickly went way south when one member decided to make out with his ‘ex-boyfriend’ right in front of the wait staff. The joke wasn’t the public display of what may or may not have been affection. The joke was whether or not to call it an ‘ex-boyfriend’ when you’ve dated for only a week and broke up three days ago and both members are already talking to someone else. Let’s call this Mess #1. Later on a happy new couple walks up to the table and joins the party. So now who is the joke on? The joke is on each of them because at one time one member of the first couple has actually slept with all three of the other members? Following me or have I lost you? I probably lost you but that’s why this is now Mess #2. Basically both sets of couples have slept with one another minus one particular member who has only been with one of the four members. Still lost? So now it gets worse. The same member from the first couple who made out is now motioning for one member of the table to meet him in the restroom. So the guy who first made out with an ‘ex-boyfriend’ and had just motioned for someone else at the table to meet him is now walking into the restroom where he sees the guy he originally made out with. It’s the ‘ex-boyfriend’, not the person he thought it was going to be. Oh well, this won’t stop this guy. This we will call Mess #3. Finally, as people begin to black out, everyone vacates the end of the party and move to Jules Downtown. I on the other hand was in the restroom (nothing sexual) and return to an empty table. My ride is gone! Guess I’m not as memorable as I thought I was. Joke is definitely on me when I had to walk two miles to my apartment from the downtown area. Oh well, I was able to walk off all of the margaritas. BTW: If that particular night you drove down Congress and saw someone walking with a huge blue Mexican sombrero that was me. You should’ve waved. We shall call this Mess #4. I guess Mess #5 will be the fun times, drunken moments, sarcasm, dancing, and great friends all mixed into drama that is as entertaining as pizza and a night of Jersey Shore. But I wouldn’t give it up for the world. Happy Cinco de Mayo and until next year TableGM!
Closing Out
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o if you did not gain anything at all from reading this week’s column, please at least contact your elected officials about House Bill 112. If you are unaware of whom your elected officials are, you can find out that information at Forum for Equality’s website at forumforequality.com or visit the Louisiana State website at Louisiana.gov. Play it safe this summer. As always, keep the party going!
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under the gaydar ...from 36 Day Weekend. As much of the party person I am, attending this event has eluded me somehow, either because of work or another excuse. But not this year, I am going to experience one of the hottest circuit parties of the summer full blast; diving right into the deep end. I am going with my friends Ronnie (aka Rhonda Roget) and her husband David as we maneuver our way through the entire weekend enjoying fun, sun and lots of men. So what do I have to expect from this year’s extravaganza. First, we have a room with a view at the Hampton Inn, which is the host hotel for the entire weekend. It seems that there are parties and major festivities every night. On Friday, Emerald City, the hottest gay bar in Pensacola is holding Bitch Bingo at 6pm with Bianca del Rio, who is also the hostess for the entire weekend. Then at 9pm, Strip Down with DJ Dewight Barkley takes over till closing. Then from 10pm to 5am that night, the Wave party held on Pensacola Beach featuring DJ Roland Belmares happens. I cannot imagine what kind of naughtiness I can get into in the sand. On Saturday, the gays hit the beach for some relaxation in the sun. There are parties the entire weekend at the Hampton and the Portofino Island Resort as well as all along the strip, but Emerald City is the place to be for their Sweat party from 9pm to 3am with DJ Eddie Baez in downtown Pensacola. The Pensacola Civic Center sets the stage for Sunday night’s award winning party, Abracadabra from 10pm to 4am with New Orleans own DJ Joe Gauthreaux. Wynter Gordon, known for the dance hit Dirty Talk will headline the entertainment at this popular circuit dance party. Gordon’s debut album, Still Getting Younger, is due out soon, having already released the lead single Dirty Talk which topped the US (Billboard) Hot Dance Club Songs and ARIA charts, which was certified 3x Platinum. In addition to being a gifted performer, Wynter has written songs for Mary J. Blige, Flo Rida, Jennifer Lopez, Estelle and Gossip Girl’s Leighton Meester. She performed the national anthem for a Knicks vs. Heat game at Madison Square Garden and was a headline act at the 2011 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras post parade party. Her promotional single, Putting It Out There (Pride), became the official theme song for the 2011 Sydney G/L Mardi Gras. Also on Sunday at Emerald City is Friction with DJ Dewight Barkley. If you cannot sleep, Myspace offers Spellbound After Hours from 3am to 8am with DJ Wendy Hunt. For those who have survived three days of partying, Emerald City finishes out the holiday weekend on Monday with Climax. I do not know about you, but I am exhausted just thinking about
everything. For more information or for tickets, go to www.memorialweekendpensacola.com.
Movie Review: Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides
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ack’s back! And he is better than ever. I loved this install ment of Pirates of the Caribbean. After two very disappointing sequels, On Stranger Tides breathes new life into the franchise. This is truly a role that Johnny Depp was meant to play and he nails it to perfection this go around. With a few old faces returning, the new movie brings fresh new characters and new dangers. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Rob Marshall, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides captures the fun, adventure and humor that ignited the hit franchise-this time in Disney Digital 3D. Johnny Depp returns to his iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow, crossing paths with the enigmatic Angelica played wonderfully by Penélope Cruz. Cruz makes the most of this role, playing expertly off Depp’s Sparrow. Sparrow is unsure if she is his one true love or just a ruthless con artist who’s using him to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. When she forces him aboard the “Queen Anne’s Revenge,” the ship of the legendary pirate Blackbeard, Jack finds himself on an unexpected adventure. Blackbeard is brought to vivid life by Ian McShane from Deadwood fame. Not knowing whom to trust, Jack sets sail once again on another action packed escapade. The international cast includes franchise vets Geoffrey Rush as the vengeful Captain Hector Barbossa and Kevin R. McNally as Captain Jack’s longtime comrade Joshamee Gibbs. Joining them is hot newcomer and my newest heartthrob Sam Claflin as a stalwart missionary and Astrid Bergès-Frisbey as a mysterious mermaid. Claflin does the most with his beefcake role and has some nice shirtless time. The mermaid sequence was prob-
ably one of the best scenes I have seen in these films since the onset and in 3D, it is truly spectacular. Gone are the long drawn out sword battles from the last two sequels that seemed to go on forever. I believe most of the thanks for this new facelift lie with director Rob Marshall. Marshall is a complete renaissance man and he proves his mettle here. Not only is he a film and theater director, but a celebrated cho-
reographer. He is a six-time Tony Award nominee, Academy Award nominee, Golden Globe nominee and fourtime Emmy winner whose most noted work is the 2002 Academy Award Best Picture winner Chicago. With some fun cameos by Dame Judi Dench and Keith Richards, Disney has another blockbuster hit on their hands. And stay past the credits for the set up for Pirates of the Caribbean 5. This is definitely an extra-large popcorn movie and an exciting four stars from me.
Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom
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exclusive performance by Trixie Minx. It was so much fun as the New Orleans’ contingent met their families and friends from out of town. I especially loved Tyler’s Grammy, a fabulous spitfire of a woman. Both sets of families were just delightful and one could actually feel the love they shared for both men. It was at that moment that marriage among two men or two women didn’t seem so unusual to me. This is a union between two people; more than just two people, they are my friends. Why shouldn’t they be allowed to marry? They are in love and they want to build a life together (which they have already done for the past seven years). What is it that makes some straight people cringe about this? I dare someone to tell me that gay marriages do not live up to their idea of family values. What I witnessed last weekend was the best in family values. And no argument in the world will make me see any differently. What these advocates against gay marriage need to do is look beyond their fight and at us directly. What they will see us on a personal level then they
he idea of gay marriages never really fazed me one way or another. I was ambivalent on the subject. Do not get me wrong, I truly believe that gay people deserve the same rights as our heterosexual counterparts, but I never thought that gay nuptials would be something I actually wanted for myself. That was until my friends Nick and Tyler decided to get married. I have been friends with both of them for years. I met Nick when we worked together about eight years and remained friends with him afterwards. Both men are a good ten years my junior have great jobs where they are much respected in their individual fields of work, own their own condominium and volunteer for many LGBT organizations and causes. Basically they have a solid foundation. But it seemed so foreign to me that they wanted to get married. They have it all why would they want or need a piece of paper saying they are married, besides, they know it is not legal in Louisiana so why even go through with this entire hoopla. It was not until their engagement party this Nick & Tyler Engagement Party past Saturday that I understood their reasoning. This goes will comprehend is that we are their way beyond society’s rules and regula- brothers, sisters, sons, daughters and tions. It is about love, family and com- friends. We are not trying to take over mitment not legalities. I watched as the world, we do not have an agenda; friends and family of these two young we just want to have a fighting chance men flew to New Orleans from all over at a life with the person we love, just the country to celebrate their engage- like everyone else. Isn’t that written ment. It was an amazing sight to somewhere, “Life, Liberty and the Purbehold, as two families met for the first suit of Happiness?” time in celebration of their sons’ love. Congratulations Nick and Tyler, I I helped plan some of the details of am looking forward to the wedding. the engagement party which was held But just to be safe, if there is a bouquet, at the Republic and featured live music aim it away from me. from Jerry Christopher and his band, If you would like your event mendelectable food from Vega Tapas, a tioned in my article, or have something specialty drink named after the couple of interest, please email me at served by a hot male model, and an tonymgp@hotmail.com.
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Tiffany Alexander on stage @ the Parade above Bourbon Pub
Darwin Reed & Tami Tarmac @ Bourbon Pub Parade’s Lipstixx
Enjoying Cinco de Mayo @ Rawhide
The men get down to business @ Club LAX Lube Wrestling
ambush
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Señor Charlie Bear bust the pinata @ Lafitte’s
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo @ Bourbon Pub Corner Pocket Calendar Boy Week 1 winner Ezequiel (E.Z.)
Nicole DuBois MCs @ Lipstixx hosted in the Parade
Manager Neel & assistant serves up Good Friends fab Taco Bar for Cinco de Mayo
Calendar Boy Contest Host Barry Bareass with 2nd Place winner Chris @ Corner Pocket Cutter’s Mac & Jimmy celebrated Cinco de Mayo with a feast for the patrons
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile Troy serves up his mom’s authentic tamales @ Rawhide
Señor Ken @ Lafitte’s Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo @ Rawhide
Dancer Leo taking it off during Corner Pocket’s Calendar Boy Contest Hot lube wrestlers @ Club LAX in Metairie
Ambush’s Frankie snagged by lube wrestlers @ Club LAX in Metairie
Corner Pocket Calendar Boy Contestant Paul
40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 24-J une 6, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
Shows, Cinco de Mayo, Wrestling, Calendar Boy ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio, Chris Ward
Almost dancing in the streets @ Lafitte’s Cinco de Mayo
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ambush
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Randy, King Satyricon Kent & Michael @ Satyricon Bake Sale
Cocktailin’ @ 4 Seasons in Metairie
JohnPaul’s Paul & John @ AmonRa Fish Fry @ Kajun's Pub
Urban, Will & Jerome behind the bar @ Double Play
Richard Read & Queen Satyricon Brian Peterson @ Satyricon Bake Sale
Paul takes a break from cooking @ Kajun’s Pub for Amon-Ra Fish Fry @ Kajun's Pub
Napoleon’s Itch newest hottie @ Satyricon Bake Sale @ Napoleon’s Itch
Beau, Hunter & Jansen, direct from Houma, cocktailin’ @ Oz
King Amon-Ra Jerry, Daniel & Kenny @ Amon-Ra Fish Fry hosted @ Kajun’s Pub
Tammy Kern, Blaine Kern Jr. & Bonnie Boyd @ Nick & Tyler’s engagement party @ Republic
Jerry shows off his cake at the Satyricon Bake Sale at Napoleon’s Itch
You can catch bartender Phil @ The Double Play
Todd, Stephen & Wedon at the Satyricon Bake Sale
Bartender of the Year Jeff shows off the Mascara Red Bean Wrestler winning trophy @ Lafitte’s
Paul welcomes new members to Satyricon Bake Sale @ Napoleon’s Itch
JoAnn & daughter Sandy @ Kajun’s Pub for Amon-Ra Fish Fry Trixie Minx @ Nick & Tyler’s engagement party
King Satyricon Kent, Robert, Amon-Ra Capt. John & Darwin @ Amon-Ra Fish Fry
Maryamm, Erin & Karl @ Nick & Tyler’s engagement party
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Bartenders, Krewes, Parties ~ Metairie, New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio
Cha Cha greets all visitors to the bar whether man or beast @ Good Friends Kentucky Derby Party
baton rouge Passport to the Cuisines of the World International Tasting Fair & Cooking Competition June 5
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he Baton Rouge Center for World Affairs, Inc. and the Louisiana State Museum invite you to the twelfth annual Passport to the Cuisines of the World International Tasting Fair & Cooking Competition on Sunday, June 5, at 6:30pm at the Louisiana State Museum, 660 N. 4th Street, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana The Baton Rouge Center for World Affairs presents the annual tradition that showcases the cuisines of the more than 50 cultures that make up the Baton Rouge area population. Many of the participants also take part in the annual International Heritage Celebration which will be held October 23, 2011, in downtown Baton Rouge. At the cooking competition, the spotlight is on the judging process as well as on the dishes. Contestants compete for gold and silver medals and gifts donated by area businesses. Community members are inspired to demonstrate their skills for creating unique and delicious ethnic dishes, often using family heritage recipes. The judging panel of area chefs and media celebrities select the winning dishes. Guests attending the event are invited to sample the competitors’ dishes, plus they are treated to a variety of dishes provided by local international restaurants. Guests will be entertained throughout the evening by traditional international dances and the lively Caribbean sounds of the Anotherstar band. Whether it is a kilt or a sari, guests are encouraged to come in the native
deadline for recipe submissions is May 27. Rules are posted at www.brcwa.com. General admission tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, or $200 for a table for ten. Tickets include the unique opportunity to taste food from many countries. Student admission (over 18, show student ID) is $15. Tickets can be purchased by visiting
www.brcwa.com or by calling 225.930.0901. Seating is limited. All proceeds benefit the Baton Rouge Center for World Affairs, Inc. to sustain and develop its programs. The Baton Rouge Center for World Affairs, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
attire of their heritage. This event grows more exciting and festive each year. The competition part of the event is for amateur cooks only. All accepted competitors attend as guests. The
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