Ambush magazine volume 29 issue 16 by Ambush Publishing

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

Exciting Winners, $3,219 Raised at 24th GAA Gala

xcitement reigned as the Gay Appreciation Award winners were introduced during the 24th annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala at Oz. The evening honored Chuck Turner and Bill Miller with the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the GAA Board of Directors, the most prestigious award at the event. Category winners were selected by Ambush readers back in June . Turner and Miller are proprietors of 4 Seasons in Metairie, Billy's in Slidell, and Double Play in New Orleans. The couple, who recently celebrated their 40th anniversary, have been long time supporters of the GLBT community and through their clubs and efforts have helped raise over $150,000 for area charities including NO/AIDS Task Force, Gay Easter Parade and Food For Friends. The event raised $3,219 for Buzzy's Boys and Girls including $1,490 from the door, $229 in stage performance tips and $1,500 from VIP table sales courtesy of Chuck Turner and Bill Miller, Opal Masters and Darwin Reed, Toby Lefort and Al Hererra/Club LAX, Roy Smith and Nick Olivares, Gary Vandeventer, John Vignone and Paul Chiriaco/JohnPaul's, Elizabeth Bouvier and Tony Leggio, Pride Grand Marshal Misti Ates, Craig Nero/Who Dat Coffee Cafe, and Engender. Since 1997, the gala has raised $42,672 for charity. The exciting duo of Lisa Beaumann and Teryl-Lynn Fox emceed the affair while outstanding production numbers were presented by 2010 Entertainer of the Year Elizabeth Bouvier, and GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalists: Oz, Bourbon Pub Parade, Tubby's Golden Lantern, Club LAX, and JohnPaul's. The board presented checks totaling $3,644.94, monies raised during the Grand Send-Off of the late Marcy Marcell, including $728.98 to Akula Foundation, $1,457.98 to Buzzy’s Boys & Girls, and $1,457.98 to Food For Friends. Award winners voted on by Ambush readership included: • Circuit Party/Event of the Year - Halloween • Hair Salon of the Year - Head Quarters • Gay Mardi Gras Ball of the Year - Krewe of Petronius • Neighborhood Bar of the Year - Tubby's Golden Lantern • Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award - Chris Leonard • Bitch of the Year - Princesse Stephaney • Show Bar of the Year - JohnPaul's • Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award - Running With Scissors • Restaurant/Deli/Coffee House of the Year - Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli • Dance Club of the Year - Oz • Bartender of the Year - Lance Pippin/Tubby's Golden Lantern • DJ of the Year - Tim Pflueger/Oz • Leather Bar of the Year - Phoenix • Cheridon Comedy Award - Zsa Zsa d’LaHor • Fly Fashion Glamour Award - Dominique DeLorean • GLBT Business of the Year - Krazy Katz • Leather Person of the Year - Troy Powell • Transgender of the Year - JoAnn Guidos • Lesbian of the Year - Misti Ates • Gay Man of the Year - Tony Leggio • Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year - Elizabeth Bouvier The Marsha Delain Award of Excellence, the Drag Ambassador Award, was presented by Marsha Naquin-Delain to Opal Masters.

inside

Pre-Southern Decadence Issue out Aug. 16 DEADLINE: Tues., Aug. 9

celebrazzi 6 a community within communities 12 obit 12 under the gaydar 14 snap paparazzi/new orleans 16 snap paparazzi/new orleans 18 chop chop 22 spotlight feature 24

ambush paparazzi/new orleans trodding the boards classifieds acadiana paparazzi/lafayette acadiana happens/lafayette pensacola paparazzi mobile paparazzi ambush paparazzi/new orleans

26 27 28 32 33 34 37 38

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

Past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients include Jimmie Callaway, the late Dan Fountain [Betty Buttons], the late Andy Boudreaux, the late Buzzy Fanning, the late Dirty Dottie, the late Miss Fury, Rip and Marsha NaquinDelain, the late Dan Romero, the late Miss Do, the late Louise McFarland, Miss Dixie Fasnacht, Alice Brady and the late John Dodt, Gene Adams, the late Charlene Schneider, the late Steve Mettner, Marty Curtin and Koo Gaffney, the late Donald “Donnie Jay” James, Kitty Blackwell, Michael “Fish” Hickerson, the late Marcy Marcell, Mary L. Lathouwers, Don Evans, and Jean Redmann. Sponsored by Ambush, the awards thanks those in the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Community who are often not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the GLBT Community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today across the Gulf South. The GAA Board of Directors include Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, and Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. Visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA for info.

SDGMs XXXVII Misael Rubio & Tiffany Alexander Announce Upcoming Events

outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander have announced more events leading up to the 40th Anniversary of Southern Decadence Labor Day Weekend. Set for Wednesday, August 31st through Labor Day, Monday, September 5th, there will be a flurry of activities and events leading up to the 37th annual Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4th. As the parade winds through the streets of the French Quarter, you will get to see all the outrageous fun led by SDGMs XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander followed by the annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss at Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street. SDGMs XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander have announced upcoming events including: Saturday, August 6th, 10pm, 2nd Southern Decadence Charity Fundraiser for NO/AIDS Task Force at Club LAX Thursday, August 11th, 9pm, Southern Decadence Poster Signing with $10 proceeds benefiting NO/AIDS Task Force at 700 Club Saturday, August 20th, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Dinner, by invitation only Monday, August 22nd, 8pm, Southern Decadence Charity Fundraiser benefitting NO/AIDS Task Force with Special Pot Luck Burlesque Show,

honoring SDGMs Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander at The Corner Pocket The 2011 theme is Viva New Orleans: What Happens in New Orleans Stays in New Orleans while the "official" song is Fireworks by Katy Perry. The "official" colors are fuchsia pink, black and silver, while the "official" Southern Decadence Charity is NO/AIDS Task Force. The 2011 Southern Decadence Sponsors include Absolut, Ambush Mag, Bacardi, Bud Light, GrahamStudioOne.COM. Harrah's New Orleans, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, Sir Speedy Printing and SouthernDecadence.COM. For additional information, visit [continued on 8]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP: 650,000+ in print/3.5 Million+ On-line NATIONAL CIRCULATION: USA... Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg Texas - Austin

STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Paul Melancon 504.535.3615 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Collins-Lafayette, LA Tony Leggio, Jeff Palmquist, Steve Patrick, 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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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

aptain Gary Vandeventer and Lord King XXVIII Ben Bougeois welcome guests to the annual Lords of Leather Pool Party hosted at the Lions Inn in New Orleans. The event helped raise funds for the krewes 29th bal masque in 2012. For additional information visit LordsOfLeather.COM.

huck Turner and Bill Miller are congratulated by Big Mamma Lavouge following the presentation of the 24th Lifetime Achievement Award to the couple at the 24th Gay Appreciation Awards Gala at Oz in New Orleans. Presented by the GAA Board of Directors, the annual gala raised $3,219 for Buzzy's Boys and Girls. Since 1997, the gala has raised $42,672 for charity. The Ambush readership voted on the recipients in 21 award categories in June. The winners were announced at the gala as well. For more info visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA.

wner Rob and staff dressed to the theme Cowboys and Indians at the 16th Dining Out For Life at Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown. The annual event hosted at area restaurants throughout the area raises thousands of dollars each year for NO/AIDS Task Force and its agencies. Visit NOAIDSTaskForce.ORG for more information.

hris Arthur, aka Barbara Ella, and Darwin Reed celebrated their birthdays during the Krewe of Amon-Ra July Pub Crawl beginning at Good Friends Bar in New Orleans. The monthly event raises funds for the krewes 47th ball in 2012. For more information on the krewe, visit KreweOfAmonRa.COM.

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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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Ms. Louisiana Leatherette Aug. 13th at Kajun's Pub

n Saturday, August 13th, outgoing titleholder Bubbles Champagne gives up her sash as the Lords of Leather crown Ms. Louisiana Leatherette 2012 at Kajun’s Pub, 2256 St. Claude Ave. The contest begins promptly at 9pm and a $10 donation for admission is requested. Emcee for the evening is Tittie Toulouse. The Ms. Louisiana Leatherette contest takes a tongue-in-cheek look at gay leather pageantry and is open to all “Artist/Entertainers” who wish to present their best with a leather twist.

Past contestants have included participants from every gender/label imaginable. The winner is awarded a trophy and a cash prize. Contestants are judged in four categories: parish costume, talent, swimwear, and evening gown/fetish. If you are interested in becoming a contestant, the application and an informational brochure can be downloaded at the Lords of Leather website: www.lordsofleather.com.

volvement, sex appeal, healthy lifestyle and yes, even talent!) who will soon be whisked off to Montreal, one of the world’s most LGBT-friendly cities. Throughout Montreal Pride Week (August 8 through August 14), the six finalists will compete in a variety of challenges and activities, all of which will be captured on film. Viewers can keep up with the action online and vote for their favorite contestants, starting August 7, at: http:// www.queeroftheyearcontest.com At the end of the competition, the finalist with the most public votes combined with the most points from the judges will win the ultimate title of

Ambush Ad Deadline August 9th

504.522.8049 QUEER OF THE YEAR and a chance to take part in the Pride parade on Sunday, August 14 which marks the end of Montreal’s Pride Week celebrations. The winner will also enjoy the grand prize of $5,000 CAD (approximately $5,275 USD) plus flights and accommodations to return for a weekend visit to Montreal after the competition. The remaining finalists will each receive $1,000 CAD.

So You Think You Can Prance?

ontreal, Quebec – They’re queer, they’re here, and they’re back! Montreal welcomes six finalists for a survival of the fierce and fabulous to crown the second annual “Queer of the Year” contest winner during Montreal Pride Week. Contestants submitted applications in June for Tourism Montreal’s “Queer of the Year” contest and 20 semi-finalists were selected for Skype interviews. A panel of judges narrowed the colorful lineup down to six finalists (based on personality, community in-

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a community within communities The Habit of In-Action by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church “Habit creates the appearance of justice; progress has no greater enemy than habit.” José Martí (Cuban patriot and writer, 1853-1895) As a pastor I can tell you, one of the greatest challenges that faces any church are the pedantic choruses of “we’ve always done it that way.” In ferreting through the internet in a quest for opening quotes I landed upon a site of ‘social justice’ quotes. Over 200 quotes were up for grabs. In scrolling through the litany of the righteous one thing seemed to be shared – the enemy of justice is silence. What then is silence? It is nothing. It is precisely nothing. It has no movement. It has no energy. It has no heart or soul it is a cavern and a void. St. Augustine of Hippo said it this way, “Sin is the absence of good.” But it is more. Habit, as Martí said, is the enemy of justice. How so? We are reluctant to change because change is uncomfortable. Habit is a form of social silence. Many may recall the hope and potential that was felt after Hurricane Katrina. We could rebuild a city; reduce crime; rebuild an effective infrastructure. Do

what no city has ever done; start over. Yet, as we approach the sixth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina it seems that we have an intractable desire to return to old patterns and old behaviors. The possibilities just are too uncomfortable. Is it our habit once again to accept violence and murder so long as it is in another neighborhood? Is it our habit once again to live apart avoiding rejection as a GLBT community? Is it our habit once again to live with a broken medical system that is a political prize to be won? Is it our habit to simply say, “That’s New Orleans”. James the brother of Jesus and head of the early Christian Church was equally concerned with the appearance of good religion without the result of good acting out that religion. He said, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” In or out of a Christian context is it not true that it is no longer acceptable to simply be sympathetic? To go back to our habit of being compassionate from a distance, holding a cocktail in hand and saying, “what a shame” and then moving along in our traditional patterns of self indulgence cannot and will not nurture and grow a full community of peace, love,

obituary and mutual respect. It will only appear so. It will be the void, the silence, the cavern of nothing because in sentimental sympathy we fool ourselves and rob our brothers and sisters of their real humanity. Jesus, who preached the gospel of engaged love, who died for all people, gay, straight, black, brown, white, poor, and yes even rich, envisioned the struggle that all must endure who would truly be workers of faith, doers of the divine, movers of social justice. He said, “Take up your cross daily and follow me.” What Jesus the compassionate lover of all humanity instructed is hard work. This work has been ongoing for centuries. But, as Ghandi said, “A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history.” Remember the Stonewall Riots; Harvey Milk; Rosa Parks; Bishop Gene Robinson; Sojourner Truth; Cesar Chavez; Lec Walensa; for the most part average people who stepped up and stepped out. We, in New Orleans, can alter the course of our community history; “take up your cross and follow me.”

alcolm Poole, 38, of Tunkhannock, PA. Died Monday July 4th, 2011 at

home. Born in Monroe, Louisiana, he is survived by his parents, Malcolm Poole, of Olla, LA, and Linda Ann Jameson Hall, of Dodson, LA. Brother to Thomas Poole, of Olla, La., Brad Poole and wife Lee of Olla, La. , Ashley Poole Grubbs and husband Max of Monroe, La. A Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. He was a 1991 graduate of Jonesboro-Hodge High School. Malcolm also attended Louisiana Tech University. A Memorial service will be held 5pm Saturday August 27, 2011 at St. Anna’s Episcopal Church located at 1313 Esplanade Ave. New Orleans. For further information please contact St. Anna’s Episcopal Church 504.947.2121 and speak to Luigi.

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

Bartender of the Month

have to give it to the owners of Napoleon’s Itch; they have exquisite taste in men. I do not know where they find these incredible specimens of the male genus, but my hat is tipped to them. My bartender for the month of August is Rex at Napoleon’s Itch. This may seem shallow but sometimes looks can be a wonderful attribute in a bartender. Let’s face facts; it is most every gay man’s dream to be waited on by a striking guy. Napoleon’s Itch’s owner Chuck provides his patrons with living fantasies. To put it bluntly, Rex is hardcore sex appeal. He has a winning smile, incredibly toned body and sensual eyes. In other words, he is the epitome of eye candy. But he definitely is more than just another pretty face. Rex is an extremely talented bartender with an acute sense of customer service. Every person who walks into the bar is almost always immediately greeted with him recognizing his regulars. He has an easy going personality that makes him very likeable with almost everybody. And his mixology skills are far superior to most others in his line of work. The bartenders are just one of many reasons why I love this bar. Being a nonsmoker, I enjoy Napoleon’s Itch because of their no-smoking policy. Also, they have some of the cleanest restrooms around. And this bar is one of the driving forces behind our incredible Southern Decadence entertainment. And Rex is just one of many hot men that will be working behind the bar; each one sexier than the next. If you are lucky, you may be able to catch him wearing his kilt this year. Now talk about erotic. So stop by Napoleon’s Itch at 734 Bourbon Street and get a tasty beverage from Rex.

Book of the Month: August

t is great to be able to manage my time better and start reading more novels. I have just finished one of my favorite author’s newest books in the Women’s Murder series and it is a very interesting read. Although I did find 10th Anniversary by James Patterson one of the weakest

entries in the series, it was not a total disappointment. In her latest case, Detective Lindsay Boxer needs to locate a missing newborn and stop a series of violent rapes. She is aided by Assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellano who is prosecuting one of the biggest cases of her career, a woman who is accused of murdering her husband in front of their children. Rounding out the group is Medical Examiner Claire Washburn and crime reporter Cindy Thomas. As always the personal dramas of these four women are played out through the book. Lindsay finally gets married and the intricacies of being a newlywed are a great subplot. Like all his novels, 10th Anniversary is well paced, exciting and full of clever plot twists. This is positively a delicious summer read. For more information on James Patterson and his novels, go to www.jamespatterson.com.

Feel the Depreciation

t is official, the Gay Depreciation Awards will be happening very soon, so keep an eye out for the voting information. You will be allowed one vote per email address. The voting will be kept up until two days before the actual awards ceremony. More details will be revealed to you shortly on the times, place and location, as well the identity of these two well-known personalities who will act as emcees for the festivities. Once again the categories are: Most Disappointing Event; Best Drug Bar; Worst Drag Performer; Worst Drag Show; Hustler of the Year; Biggest Passed Around Party Bottom; Most Monogamous Couple; Worst Bar Bathroom; Hottest Mess; Best Fag Hag; Shittiest Bartender; Sissiest Leather Man; Player of the Year; Most Closeted Homosexual; Best Scandal of the Year; Douchebag of the Year; Butchest Bull Dyke and the BE Award of Excellence for Social Climber of the Year. Keep your eyes posted for all the information coming your way very soon.

Three Ladies About Town

he New Orleans gay scene has so much to offer and recently two friends and I had an incredible four day adventure in the Big Easy. It was so enjoyable and fun, that I just had to share it with everyone. So relax, sit back and enjoy the escapades of three ladies about town. It started innocently enough

when Jeff Mallon, Chris Arthur and I decided to dress up in costume on Thursday night for Dining Out For Life. We had dinner at the ever so fabulous Louisiana Pizza Kitchen on Carrollton Avenue who themes out their dinner every year. It has become one of the most unique dining experiences on this special night, where restaurants around the city donate a portion of all their proceeds that night to the NO/AIDS Task Force. The premise of tonight was Cowboys and Indians and LPK was decked out with western décor, John Wayne movies playing and the entire wait staff dressed in full costume. Joined by our friend Danny (aka Amanda Straddle how appropriate for the theme), we were disguised as two cowboys (Chris and Danny), Davy Crocket (me) and Pocahooker (Jeff) who was dressed in a full flowing red feathered Indian headdress. He even decided to serenade the table with his version of Half Breed. Watch out Cher! After dinner, Danny went home and the three of us decided it was time for a little ice cream and a brisk walk around the Riverbend area window shopping and enjoying the unusually nice evening. We stopped and ogled the lovely outfits in the window at Yvonne LeFleur which were marvelous. Laughing and walking arm and arm shaking our imaginary flowing locks we felt as giddy as schoolgirls. It was a lovely laid back evening with friends. Sometimes I think it is the simple memories that people should cherish the most. The following night was Barbara Ella’s final send-off show at JohnPaul’s for ForePlay. If anyone does not know this by now, Barbara Ella is Chris’ alter ego. He has been a welcome addition to our city and the gay community since he came to NOLA. Last year he was even awarded the Marsha Dalain Naquin Drag Ambassador Award of Excellence. But alas, he has gotten a new job in Newport News, Virginia and this was one of his last weeks in the Big Easy, so Elizabeth Bouvier wanted to plan a farewell show that brought the house down. And it literally did, cops were called into the bar twice, shot glasses were flying, a drag off showdown occurred and then there was Varla Jean Merman. Elizabeth Bouvier (Jeff) had her usual cast of Tami, Dominique and Lauren that night, joined by special guests Varla Jean Merman, Cathy Fox and yours truly - Antoinette Ella Chardonnay. It was an unbelievable night of fun, excitement and drama. The audience was really into the entire evening’s festivities from Varla’s show stopping numbers choreographed with video presentations to Antoinette’s garbage bag ensembles and shot tossing performances, these ladies rocked. Even the lip sync for your life face-off between Cathy Fox and Barbara Ella

was a sight to behold. Uniting with me onstage for a number was Amanda Straddle, in my pink garbage bag couture outfit, we gave new meaning to the term “Popular.” Add to the fact that this was all played out during a police disturbance in the bar with this one calling the cops on that one and vice versa, and that lends itself to one hell of a night in my book. But it was not over yet. After the show, Elizabeth, Barbara and I decided to have a girls’ night out on the town, so not changing into boy clothes, we hit the streets of the French Quarter, three single ladies about town looking for love and adventure; and boy did we find it. Our initial stop was the Corner Pocket, where we spent several hours flirting and fondling the well-endowed dancers of the night. Our spirit and libidos ran unbridled as we flung our sensuality at these lovely men, who were in the mood for a little lady/man romance if you know what I mean. We were the hit of their evening, if I may be so bold in stating. But we could not be held down by just one bar, so we brought our love to the 700 Club next, where we sipped some of the devil’s nectar, which was sweet to the taste. Okay, we downed a few sex on the beach shots off some boys chest, but it was still classy. Not to be dismayed, we traversed to Good Friends, where we met this quartet of young, eligible young men who were of outstanding physical condition and ready to give a lovely lady a hand up (her skirt). So we joked and giggled tossing our now real luxurious locks back carelessly enjoying the company of strangers, while Luke served us cocktails. Luke was a wonderful and lonely sort who found solace in our companionship. Basically he was bored and we were the only ones tipping him. But he playfully teased with us, all the while nursing a lust in his eyes that only the love of three single women about town could satisfy. But that came later; we could not be halted from our night of exploration. Our next stop was Napoleon’s Itch where we marveled at the talents and muscles of the bartenders on duty. Rex, you handsome rogue you, you made three single ladies blush. After an adult beverage or two, we sauntered our way over to Oz, for a spot of dancing. Nothing signals girls having fun than dancing together in a frenzy to a Lady Gaga number. Boys surrounded us like a wagon train wanting to be part of our entourage, and so we let them join us along with the four young men we had picked up at Good Friends and some random male strippers who got off early from the Pocket. After dancing our little hearts off at Oz, we went to Lafitte’s in Exile walking down the middle of Bourbon Street. It was at that moment when I felt a song [continued on 17]

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Philip Palumbo accepts GLBT Business of the Year from Teryl-Lynn & Lisa

Princesse Stephaney accepts Bitch of the Year from Lisa & Teryl-Lynn

Head Quarters’ Monalot Fontaine & Bubbie Kakes accept Hair Salon of the Year

Lisa & Teryl-Lynn present Neighborhood Bar of the Year to Tubby’s Golden Lantern’s Sam

Pride Grand Marshal Chris Leonard accepts Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award from Teryl-Lynn & Lisa

TJ Conrad & Misael Rubio accept Restaurant/Deli of the Year

Opal Masters accepts Marsha Delain Award of Excellence: The Drag Ambassador Award

Steve & Koo accept $1,457.98 charity presentation from Marcy Marcell’s Grand Send-off

Food for Friends accepts $1,457.98 charity presentation from Marcy Marcell’s Grand Send-off

Teryl-Lynn presents Dance Bar of the Year to Oz’s Persana Shoulders, Tommy Elias & Lisa Beaumann

Teryl-Lynn & Lisa present Cheridon Comedy Award to Zsa Zsa d’LaHor

JoAnn Guidos accepts Transgender of the Year from Teryl-Lynn & Lisa

Mr. Louisiana Leather Troy Powell accepts Leather Person of the Year

Pride Grand Marshal Misti Ates accepts Lesbian of the Year

Tim Pflueger accepts DJ of the Year from Teryl-Lynn & Lisa

King Petronius L Jimmy DeBlanc & Captain Petronius L Randy Chauvin accept Gay Ball of the Year for Petronius L

Teryl-Lynn & Lisa present Man of the Year to Tony Leggio

Brian accepts Bartender of the Year for Lance Pippin from Tubby’s Golden Lantern

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24th Gay Appreciation Award Gala @ Oz sponsored by Ambush Mag ~ New Orleans ~ photos by Tony Leggio, Darwin Reed

GAA Boards Lisa Beaumann & Teryl-Lynn Foxx accept Circuit Party of the Year for Halloween

Dominque DeLorean accepts Fly Fashion Award from Teryl-Lynn & Lisa

under the gaydar ... from 14 come across me, so I started belting it out in the middle of the street, joined quickly by Barbara and Elizabeth and followed by all the gentlemen who served as our backup dancers and vocalists. It was a wonderful Glee moment that should have been recorded for posterity, but as so much in life the moment passed so quickly. At Lafitte’s we had one more drink before deciding to call it a night. But our idea of calling it a night means we went back to JohnPaul’s to end our evening of drinking with past Bartender of the Month Bobby. We celebrated Barbara’s last ForePlay show until the wee hours of the morning, and then we retreated back to our homes for some beauty rest. Well, I went home, trampy Barbara went to the Rawhide to talk to a bartender friend of hers (right) and Elizabeth sort of crawled upstairs and fell asleep at JohnPaul’s. All and all it was one of my personal best night out’s for me. Saturday came quickly and I met up with Jeff early after he returned home, showered and freshened up. We did a little shopping then off to the Quarter we found ourselves for some late afternoon libations. Chris met us out and we spent a very long time back at Good Friend’s under Luke’s good cocktail care. That is when we met Houston, a bear sort of guy who followed us around like a puppy dog in heat, He had just ended a relationship and was awfully lonely, so it was our duty as girls about town to help our fellow man in need. So Jeff did him in the bathroom and we were off to the Pub. I’m just kidding Jeff would never let his lips touch someone’s privates that had not shown him his last W2 forms for the pass three years. Thank god he has standards. Morals no, but he has standards. We did the circuit once again of Pub, Oz and Lafitte’s then ended back up at JohnPaul’s where they were having their country night. I ran into an old friend there who has just recently broken up with his boyfriend, so I thought I would keep him company for a little while. Jeff and Chris decided to go back to the Corner Pocket. People say that they are looking for love in all the wrong places. Those are the glass half empty people. I choose to think that they are finding sex in all the right places. After they left I decided to have my lovely friend escort me home for the evening. Sunday came upon me like a tidal wave. I woke up, did housework, went to the gym, went into the office and did some paperwork and was still able to meet up with Jeff and Chris in order to go to the Lords of Leather Pool Party. It was a splendid soiree with food, flowing vodka drinks and a plethora of hirsute men. After spending some time there, we went back to the Quarter to meet up with the Amon-Ra bar crawl which was already in progress. The krewe has these monthly socials observing the members birthdays in that month. This month was Darwin Reed and Chris. Once again we went everywhere and back again, Good Friends, Rawhide, Lafitte’s, Pub, Oz and 700 Club. But we ended up at the Pub for their Sunday Drink and Drown party. Now this is so much fun, for $5 you can drink have all you can drink from 6 – 8pm. Now that is what I call a good deal in these tough economic times. We even stopped to briefly visit Blanche who was conducting Dingo at Oz which is always entertaining. After our Quarter jaunt we returned back to JohnPaul’s in the Marigny, where we finalized our night of cocktailing. What a great weekend for three ladies about town and I can think of no better way to honor our wonderful friend who is leaving us to pursue his career. Chris we will miss you terribly, good luck, much love and remember New Orleans is always here waiting for you. But stay tuned, because Jeff and I plan on visiting the little burg of Newport News very soon, which is just a hop, skip and jump away from Virginia Beach. I wonder if they will be ready for three ladies about town.

Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom

ars are going to the dogs, literally. There is an ever growing trend of bars that have “yappy hours” or “dog days, where people can bring their four legged friends with them to their favorite watering hole. While I think that is cool to have those fun themed nights, I never quite understood the allure of bringing your pet to a bar. First off, it is usually noisy, smoky and does not actually lend itself to being a proper place to have Fido. Besides being an attention getter, I see no other reason to have your pet there. Sure, it gets you noticed by people who would otherwise pass you by, but have you ever heard of a dog park. I get he is man’s best friend, but why put him through the shame of seeing his master get plowed. I always like the guys who let their dog drink a draft beer for fun. They always say something like he loves the stuff or he thinks it is great. Really, douchebag, get a grip. He is thirsty and he cannot talk, not that it would do any good to speak to you, because ultimately he is not really your beloved pet, but an accessory to parade around

like a purse. Except your accessory pees on the floor or worse yet leaves a little brown pickle which is another reason why you should not bring a dog to the bar. Then there is the safety factor for the dog, people could step on the poor creature, he could get skittish and bite someone, or get into something dropped on the floor that could prove unhealthy if swallowed. And at any gay bar, the possibilities are endless. Do not get me wrong, I love dogs having three of my own, but the next time you feel the urge to bring your dog to the bar, ask him if he would like to go and if he answers yes; then by all means take him.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Gay East erParade.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 17

paparazzi

JohnPaul’s Paul Chiriaco & John Vigone accept Show Bar of the Year from Teryl-Lynn & Lisa

2010 Entertainer of the Year Elizabeth Bouvier returns

Cathy Fox KCQ XVIII Rona Conners & Barry Rutherford

Mike Durocher & Opal Masters

Barbara Ella, Tony Leggio & Elizabeth Bouvier

Easter Grand Marshal XII Elizabeth Bouvier accepts Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year

Show Bar of the Year Top 5 Finalist Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Chuck Turner & Bill Miller accept 24th Lifetime Achievement Award

Show Bar of the Year Top 5 Finalist Club LAX

Marsha & Ambush Sales Rep Paul Melancon

Deja Deja-Vue’ & Opal Masters Tittie Toulouse & Electra City

Jay Cooper & Gizelle Bouvier Show Bar of the Year Top 5 Finalist Oz

Show Bar of the Year Top 5 Finalist Bourbon Pub Parade

Show Bar of the Year Top 5 Finalist JohnPaul’s

Buzzy’s Boys & Girls Marty & Koo

Princesse Stephaney

Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVII Misael Rubio & Tiffany Alexander

Queen Amon-Ra XLVII Tami Tarmac, Elizabeth Bouvier & Opal Masters

18 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

24th Gay Appreciation Award Gala raises $3,219 for Buzzy’s Boys & Girls @ Oz ~ New Orleans ~ photos by Tony Leggio, Darwin Reed

snap

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20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

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chop chop 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.

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.

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 entrees. Open Mon.-Thurs. 5-10pm, Fri.-Sun. 11am-10pm. Free delivery in the French Quarter and Marigny up to Franklin. 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.

1 0 2 1 W. J u d g e P erez Pe

5 0 4 .2 7 9 .6 3 1 2 24 Hour Bee per: 5 0 4 .2 5 9 .8 0 6 1

A proven community leader in value and customer service! • We Deliver or ship to your home/office • We Accept Medicaid/Medicare

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

Ro d n e y Cu l o t t a , RPh Red Velvet Cupcakes @ Who Dat Coffee Cafe, 2401 Burgundy St.

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

OPEN

9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat..

22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

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spotlight feature French Quarter Festivals, Inc. announces details of the 11th Annual Satchmo SummerFest

rench Quarter Festivals, Inc. announces details about the eleventh annual Satchmo SummerFest – the premier American Jazz Festival dedicated to the life, legacy and music of New Orleans native son, Louis „Satchmo Armstrong. The 2011 Satchmo SummerFest takes place August 4 through August 7 in the French Quarter – at the Louisiana State Museums Old U.S. Mint, Maison on Frenchmen Street (Satchmo Seminars), and at Muriels Jackson Square (Satchmo Opening Reception and Keynote Speech). Friday through Sunday the festival is free and open to the public. Live, Local Music and Family Activities Two stages of music on the grounds of the Mint will include traditional jazz, contemporary jazz and brass bands. Musical performers include Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers, Preservation Hall Allstars, Yoshio Toyama and the Dixie Saints, Hot 8 Brass Band, Tim Laughlin and Connie Jones, Soul Rebels Brass Band, Leroy Jones, Jazz vocalist Leah Chase, Leon „Kid Chocolate Brown and many more. This free community event will also feature free dance lessons sponsored by NOLA Jitterbugs during Saturday and Sunday at the Cornet Chop Suey Stage. Lessons will take place between each musical set (see music schedule for details). The festival will also feature an array of educational and entertaining children s activities, including a Satchmo collage project, a second-line umbrella creation station sponsored by the New Orleans Jazz Celebration, activity stations sponsored by Krewe of Muses and Young Audiences, coconut decorating with the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club „Junior Zulus and Jazz National Historic Parks Junior Rangers program. Festival hours have been extended to 12pm to 8pm Saturday, August 6 and Sunday, August 7. The festival will also include a new tented music and food area called Satchmo in the Shade and is sponsored by Where Yat Magazine. Fascinating Speakers, Seminars and Discussions The 2011 Satchmo SummerFest Seminars will be held at our new location, Maison in the Marigny, located at 508 Frenchmen Street, just one block from the Old U.S. Mint. An impressive array of speakers will present seminars, discussions, music, and movies, scheduled from Friday, August 5 to Sunday, August 7. Satchmo SummerFest Keynote Speaker, Richard Havers, will open the sessions at Muriels Jackson Square on Thursday, August 4th, Armstrongs birthday, at the annual Satchmo SummerFest Kickoff Party. Critically acclaimed British music writer Richard Havers and Grammy-winning record

producer Russ Titelman are co-producers of the new comprehensive box set from Universal Music Group of great Armstrong recordings, „Satchmo – officially releasing at the 2011 Satchmo SummerFest in New Orleans. The set is being hailed by experts as “the most complete Louis Armstrong boxed set ever made available.” Havers and Armstrong archivist Ricky Riccardi will discuss and play clips from the set, along with additional Armstrong re-issues scheduled for release later this year. Richard Havers has written over 2,000 jingles for radio and television and has produced concerts for artists such as Paul McCartney, the Beach Boys, Chicago and America. Amongst his many books, Havers wrote the Frank Sinatra biography, Sinatra, and collaborated on two books with Bill Wyman: Bill Wyman’s Blues Odyssey and Rolling with the Stones. Many other sessions are scheduled with educational and entertaining speakers who knew or were inspired by Louis Armstrong (complete schedule attached).

field”. Throughout his career, he entertained millions – from heads of state and royalty to the neighborhood kids on his stoop in Corona, New York. Despite his fame, he lived a simple life in a working-class neighborhood. The man known around the world as „Satchmo, short for Satchelmouth, was widely recognized as a founding father of jazz – a unique American art form. In 1932, Melody Maker magazine editor Percy Brooks greeted Armstrong in London with “Hello, Satchmo!” and the nickname stuck. His influence, as an artist and cultural icon, is universal, unmatched, and very much alive today. Armstrong was a charismatic and innovative performer whose improvised soloing was the main influence for a fundamental change in jazz. As one of the most famous musicians of the 20th century, he was first known as a cornet player, then as a trumpet player, and toward the end of his career he was best known as a vocalist and influential jazz singer. 2011 Official Poster by Christy Works Boutte A Satchmo SummerFest limited edition print by local artist Christy Works Boutte will be available for purchase. Christy’s love of vibrant colors and ability to create harmony using thick oil paints has become a trademark of her

Special Events In addition to a weekend full of great music, food, seminars, movies and childrens activities, Satchmo SummerFest features an array of special events, including an Opening Reception and Keynote Address on Armstrongs birthday (August 4th); the annual Jazz Mass at the historic St. Augustine Church in Treme, a traditional second line parade and the annual Trumpet Tribute which closes the festival Sunday night with a Satchmo birthday party. Please see attached schedule for more details. Happy Birthday Satchmo! Satchmo SummerFest is scheduled annually to coincide with Louis Armstrongs birthday on August 4th. The artist often stated in public interviews that he was born on July 4, 1900 (USA Independence Day), a date that has been noted in many biographies. Armstrong died in 1971 and his true birthdate, August 4, 1901, was not discovered until the mid-1980s. Louis Armstrong was born in a poor section of New Orleans known as “the Battle-

creations. She most recently worked with French Quarter Festivals, Inc. in 2008, creating the painting which became the sold-out French Quarter Festival poster. Other merchandise will be available for sale at the festival and

online including Satchmo SummerFest shirts, hats, cooling bandanas and jewelry. More than twenty-five food and beverage booths will be open at the Louisiana State Museums Old U.S. Mint and will feature authentic local cuisine, drinks and snowballs from the areas finest restaurants to create “Red Bean Alley.” Sponsors and Community Partners for the 11th annual Satchmo SummerFest include: The City of New Orleans, The Convention & Visitors Bureau, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, Louisiana Office of Tourism, Abita Brewing Company, WWL TV-4, Louisiana State Museum, French Market, Louis Armstrong International Airport, Absolut, Malibu, Rhodes Funeral Home, Hotel Monteleone, Muriels Jackson Square, Rouses, New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park, The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, Aidan Gill, Harrahs New Orleans, Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, OffBeat Magazine, nola.com, Where YAt Magazine, Pelican Ice, www.nolajitterbugs.com, Tulane Medical Center, Event Rentals, Rolland Safe and Lock, Mardi Gras Productions, New Orleans Jazz Celebration, New Orleans Musicians Assistance Foundation, Jefferson Variety, My New Orleans, WWNO 89.9 FM, Louisiana Cookin, Kids and Family New Orleans Magazine, The Vinyl District, SLS Arts, Krewe of Muses and Sunburst Media. For more information on all FQFI festivals and events, call 504.522.5730 or visit online at www.fqfi.org. S a t c h m o SummerFest is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (www.fqfi.org), the 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, which also produces French Quarter Festival in April and Christmas New Orleans Style! in December. French Quarter Festivals, Inc. promotes the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans.

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

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ambush

papar azzi

The Amon-Ra Pub Crawl makes it to Rawhide

Leonard & Mike celebrate Darwin’s B-day @ Good Friends

Chris poses with the Engender cast @ the Pub during the AmonRa Pub Crawl

Jeff, Tony & Chris at Lords of Leather Pool Party @ Lion’s Inn

Lord King Ben welcomes you to Lords of Leather Pool Party

Keny & Leonard at the Amon-Ra Pub Crawl Bear soup @ Lords of Leather Pool Party

Luke @ Good Friends Bar will do anything to be bartender of the month

A cutie makes an entrance on stage @ Oz

Girl’s Night Out with Napoleon’s Itch owner Chuck & hot men

Bartender Spencer finds his true calling @ Good Friends

Drinking @ the 700 Club on a Sunday afternoon

Bartender Aletha @ Lafitte’s

JoAnn pins b-day boy Chris at the Amon-Ra Pub Crawl @ 700 Club

Chris gets pinned by Terry at the Amon-Ra Pub Crawl @ Lafitte’s

Lords of Leather Pool Party

The men behind the bar @ Napoleon’s Itch

Cocktailin’ @ Bourbon Pub Parade

New Meat Night Fridays @ The Corner Pocket

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Hot Steamy Nights ~ New Orleans ~ photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

Ron, Pete & Stuart celebrate @ Amon-Ra’s July Birthday Bar Run beginning @ Good Friends

trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Summertime Theater in New Orleans Heats Up

ugust is traditionally the slowest month for theater as people, both actors and audiences, tend to be out of town. But what looked like it would be such a traditionally quiet month has come to life with more than a dozen shows on the boards. Unfortunately, due to our publication schedule, I won’t be able to review all of them before they close so here’s a look at a few of them before they open. The first of the dueling Drowsy Chaperones opens August 4 at Tulane for a four day run to round out the Summer Lyric Theatre season. This Tony Award-winning musical begins when a die-hard musical theater fan— The Man in the Chair—plays his favorite cast album, a 1928 smash hit The Drowsy Chaperone, on his turntable and the fictional show magically bursts into literal life in his cramped apartment. The show-within-the-show is a glamorous and boisterous tale of a brazen Broadway starlet trying to find, and keep, her true love. Bob Martin & Don McKellarson’s book pays knowing tribute to those Jazz-age shows that had the power to transport 1920s audiences into a fun-filled fantasy-land while, later, they lifted the spirits of Depression-era viewers. With the way the economy is going these days, we could use a dose of that right now, eh? Diane Lala directs and choreographs a cast headed by the multitalented Bob Edes, Jr. as the Man in the Chair. Rich Arnold and Katie Howe who made a delightfully touching Baker and his Wife in SLT’s recent Into the Woods are back as Robert and Kitty, along with Allison Kate Barron, Becki Davis, Sam Dudley, Ken Goode, Thomas Holt Kirkindoll, Vatican Lokey, Robert Pavlovich, Cliff Thompson, and Elizabeth Argus in the title role. C. Leonard Raybon, who practically stole Into the Woods as the Wolf and Cinderella’s Prince, returns to the pit as Conductor and Musical Director of Chaperone. Beware—theater mavens who miss this Chaperone will not be able to participate in compare-and-contrast discussions come the fall when the JPAS/Theatre-13 co-production of The Drowsy Chaperone arrives at the Westwego Performing Arts Theatre with Gary Rucker directing a cast featuring Ambie Award winners Ricky Graham, Janet Shea, Brian Peterson, Kelly

Fouchi, and Marc Fouchi. Do ya think there’s a potential reality show here, “Battle of the Chaperones”? Over at the Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans, Terry Johnson’s adaptation of Mike Nichols’ classic 1967 movie The Graduate opens on August 11 and runs through the 27th at their theater in Metairie. This coming-ofage tale follows Benjamin Braddock, a twenty-one year old who is facing high expectations from his parents and anxiety about his future. Upon his return home after his college graduation, Ben is seduced by an older woman, Mrs. Robinson—the wife of his father’s business partner—and begins a secret affair with her. Although the affair ends, it comes back to haunt him when he falls for Mrs. Robinson’s daughter, Elaine. Despite less than A+ reviews when it opened on Broadway in 2002, The Graduate did fairly brisk business for a while thanks in no small part to Kathleen Turner’s star-turn as Mrs. Robinson and the brief moment when she was wearing nothing but her birthday suit. Will Director René J. F. Piazza costume his Mrs. Robinson in the same way? Will there be songs by Simon and Garfunkel? Will ATNO’s Benjamin Braddock go on to be the next Dustin Hoffman? Head to the WTIX-FM Building behind the Target at the Clearview Shopping Center to find out. Darwin the Dinosaur, at the Contemporary Arts Center August 12-21, is a far cry from the typical theater experience. Set in darkness, glowing dinosaur puppets (some as tall as seventeen feet) dance, swim and even fly as they tug at the audience’s heartstrings. The wordless show uses classical, jazz, pop and world music from Carl Orff, Henry Mancini, Annie Lennox and others as it tells the story of Professor Henslow, a lonely scientist and his creation, Darwin, a good-natured dinosaur who strays from home and discovers the outside world. There he dances with Verla the ostrich; swims with Peshe, Dobro and the rest of the underwater dwellers of the Voodoo Lounge; and defends his creator from Brutus the T-Rex in a light saber fight which dazzles viewers. Darwin’s creators, Corbin Popp and native New Orleanian Ian Carney, met while dancing in Twyla Tharp’s Broadway show Movin’ Out. Becoming fast friends through their mutual love of art, theater and technology, Corbin showed Ian a product called EL wire and their creative partnership took off. ”A love of tinkering and carpentry

helped us blend dance with puppetry,” says Carney. Shopping at Walmart, Home Depot and Academy Sports they were able to find everyday objects such as skateboards, soccer shin-guards, kneepads, fishing poles and bouncy balls to build their creatures’ understructures. In the light, one is keenly aware of the low-tech and often delicate grafting of hot glue, zip ties and duct tape which hold things together but, when the lights are off, the EL Wire makes the characters pop. EL wire is electro-luminescent wire powered by batteries and is used mostly to illuminate walkways, signs and instrument panels on cars. The cast, wearing black, disappears into darkness allowing the electro-luminescent outlines of their creatures to emerge in technologically stunning visuals that audiences appreciate even more when the performers reveal themselves at the curtain call. Carney and Popp quickly built rudimentary versions of the two main characters, Professor Henslow and Darwin. Then, with the help of their wives, native New Orleanian Eleanor Carney and Whitney Popp (who are also dancers) they began to build the rest of their puppetry-based creatures and flesh out the original story. According to Carney, “The lights look cool but cool only gets you five minutes. If you care about the characters you can surf that cool for a long time.” It is the characters’ behavior; their expressiveness, the way they move and their relationships to each other

Corbian Visual Arts and Dance on their ingenuity, heart and skill. ”For the kids, we are up against every kind of video game, movie and television show. Many of them have had little opportunity to experience a live show,” Carney said. “If we can get them to continue to come back to the theater and realize this is a special place, then we have done our jobs well.” Despite the success there have been bumps in the road. Inspired by the dinosaurs in New York City’s Museum of Natural History, Carney penned the name Darwin, not realizing the name would one day cause some audiences to skip the show thinking it was an attack on creationism. One school district in Georgia cancelled a booking after a member of the school board read, “Darwin: The story of a dinosaur who discovers the evolution of love” on the company’s website. ”I never imagined the name Darwin would become a polarizing issue. Originally I had Darwin on the brain because Corbin had checked Charles Darwin’s The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals out of the library as research for sculpting the characters’ faces. It wasn’t my intention to imbue the show with any kind of debate or evaluation regarding Evolution vs. Creationism. I liked the sound of the name Darwin and, when it comes down to it, the dinosaur in our story is evolving; he’s a beast who is given a heart and becomes compassionate. He meets and learns from other creatures and in each thing he learns, he evolves.” Aside from dress rehearsals and a few outdoor performances in conjunction with Boo at the Zoo in 2007 and 2008 this will be the first time Darwin the Dinosaur will be presented to hometown audiences. Eleanor Carney couldn’t be Corbin Popp and Ian Carney perform happier, “We’ve Darwin the Dinosaur performed in some amazing places that help people identify with and, ulti- around the globe: New York, L.A., mately, care about what happens to Vancouver, Toronto, Munich, them. And they do. Copenhagen. Later this year we’ll be in Audiences from all over the Ameri- Moscow and St. Petersburg, which is cas and Europe have embraced the really exciting. But playing here in New show. In Bogota, Colombia, at the Fes- Orleans, where Ian and I grew up, tival Iberoamericano de Teatro, adults where we learned to dance, where our and children alike stayed asking ques- teachers and friends and families are, tions and taking photos for more than this is our home and performing here is an hour after each of the eleven sold a dream come true.” out shows. In Tallinn, Estonia, after a Q In the past, there may not have & A session, hundreds of children been a lot of boards being trod during rushed the stage to get their pictures summer. This year, however, whether taken with Darwin. More recently, at you want drowsy chaperones, libidithis year’s National Puppetry Festival nous college grads, or flying dinosaurs, in Atlanta, puppeteers from all over the you won’t have to travel very far to find country congratulated the members of them.

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FR 2 A 500 N K L L 26 00 IN YA O R E LO IN U PH IS U A A D

EN 00 C EL H 2 YS 1 0 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

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 MIDTOWN 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 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 [is1511]

book stores 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

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

casinos RT PA M A R

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., 267.3615 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

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

Lake Charles, LA [337] L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, 777 Avenue L’Auberge, 337.395.7777 or 866.580.7444, ldlcasino.com New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS, GayHarrahsNOLA.COM

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is1111]

circuit/events 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 May 25-28, 2012, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM

counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, PhD, LPC, Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA

70002; 836.0000

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

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

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

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] FRADY'S ONE STOP GROCERY & DELICATESSEN, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688, fradyfied@aol.com QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Rue Dauphine, 522.2666 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.

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GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Gay East erParade.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29

HOTEL LE MARAIS, 717 Conti St., New Orleans, LA, 800.535.9111 or visit NewOrleansHotelCollection.COM, is the newest boutique hotel property in the French Quarter. This sleek, contemporary hotel offers high level service, a “happening” bar, delightful amenities and an inclusive concept that avoids a “nickel and dime” mentality. It features heated saltwater courtyard pool, complimentary daily newspaper, complimentary Wi Fi in all areas and all rooms, complimentary extended continental breakfast, complimentary fitness center, complimentary business center, and complimentary welcome drink. MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. [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 [is2611]

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

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Cam-

pus, 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 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

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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

psychic New Orleans, LA [504] PALM & TAROT CARD READER, 109 Hickory Ave., Harahan; 3116 Williams Blvd., Kenner; 644.5986

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 & cafe), 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM Frady's One Stop Grocery & Delicatessen, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688 The Green Goddess, 307 Exchange Place Alley, 301.3347, GreenGoddessNOLA.COM Krystal, 116 Bourbon @ Canal, 523.4030 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] 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 KRAZY KATZ ON BOURBON, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 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

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • Gay East erParade.COM • August 2-15, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31

Hunter & DJ Chad Evans Jacque enjoying his drink @ Jules

Eddie & Brian having a good time

Miss Steven @ Tonic works it!

Darren showing Jules bartender Whitney what it’s all about

Steven & Macky decide to represent

These two are a danger

You karaoke host @ Jules, Blake Duhon DJ Macky Ray just love to play “wobble” to this crowd

Steven & Joey performing karaoke @ Jules

Jules’ Steven & Whitney cuddling with the vodka

Ambrosia Black, your winner @ Tonic Tuesday Night Talent Show Rick & Ty just love one another so much!

Mattie’s tribute to Amy Winehouse

Jules Best Damn Drag Show showing its talent

Brodie & Kira bartending @ Tonic

Look @ Spencer!

Jules Drag Show just works it

DJ Macky Ray @ Tonic

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Represent, Talent, Danger ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins

Your host of the night Steven @ Jules

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

s it still raining? Is it just me or has it been raining every single day for the past month? As other parts of the country struggle with drought we simply know how to stay wet. Prepare a martini and snuggle under the cabana because here’s what’s going on.

Recapping a Night Cap

refuse to even beat around the bush for this one. It kind of sort of happens. At one point we all piss somebody off without the intent to. Nowadays it’s so much easier to do so.

Take Facebook for example. I’ve come to realize that at times you just can’t win with Facebook. Too many people use it as a venue. It’s as though it’s a big show and some feel the urge to take that show and run with it in multiple dramatic directions. It’s okay, I’ve done it. Many of us have done it. It happens. I’m talking more so about the idea of ‘check-ins’ at certain locations. It’s fun. I mean I can only assume that it makes a stalker’s job a lot easier. At the end of the day it is what it is. Most of us check into locations and communicate to the world about our location.

We find it fun and interesting. The whole point of social media is to basically fuel our confidence because it honestly makes us feel as though someone else is interested in our life. I’m guilty of it. There, I said it. With that said, where is the line drawn and where do people let it go? I will give you a simple example. Let’s say I end up at a random restaurant downtown. No harm there, right? Let’s go as far as to say a few of my friends end up meeting me there. No harm in that, correct? We are all enjoying our time, drinks are flowing, the conversation is entertaining, and overall things are going wonderful. Suddenly your smart phone goes off with an alert that reads, “You’ve been tagged at xyz” and then you shrug it off as though it has no relevance. You’re wrong, now the entire social media world knows where you are and who you are with. You simply ignore the notification and con-

tinue with your experience. Suddenly you begin to receive a text message or two. People are anxious to inquire about their invite. You then realize that others aren’t so happy because a comment feed on the checkin has begun to commence and it’s not so happy. Certain individuals are questioning why they lack an invite. They recognize the fact that you are now out there, enjoying an experience and they want to know why they are not a part of the experience. Why oh why did you not invite them? Are you really that selfish? The evolution of social media has very recently exploded. It has caused many to easily take offense. Who ever knew that such a thing could make people feel so alienated? I mean neither one of us meant for it to happen but I suppose to others it may feel that way. The story goes as such. One recent Friday night I end up at a downtown venue, Trynd, just simply sipping on a glass of wine. Before it all began I was at a dear friend’s house and he simply suggested a glass of wine. We promptly decided to make our way to Trynd. As we were boarding his truck another friend shows up in the driveway and joins us. I mean the more the merrier. No harm done there. As we approach downtown and make our way to the venue, I simply check in on the iPhone app Four Square. Typical, correct? As the three original gaggle sit on our barstools and sip on wine, suddenly a fourth appear because he noticed my check-in via Four Square. We are all cool and thrilled. Suddenly a member of the group decides to check us all in on Facebook. Somebody refills my drinks as the notification rolls in and I simply ignore it. I mean I am here, it’s no lie. I mean so what, who really cares? People following the Facebook feed are now aware that Joey and a few other friends are currently at Trynd. What harm could this possibly cause? A few moments pass when suddenly a mutual friend is raged with anger and begins to send a text message to us all. He’s pissed because he was not invited. A small impromptu outing suddenly has become a threat to those who are not in attendance. I’m pretty certain that things like this happen all the time. A few friends randomly coming together with no preplanned notice is quite natural. Isn’t it? Nobody does it out of spite. Crazy thing is that if it weren’t for that simple checkin then nobody would’ve known anything. The event would’ve been one to discuss at a later function and everyone would have laughed about it. Instead some people take sharing of a location with others a slap in the face when they are not involved. Who would’ve guessed? Question: Ever been someplace [continued on 34]

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Quess it is your Grandmothers Bingo All smiles @ Emerald City Tabitha & Joanna @ The Other Side

and you asked the people with you to not check you in because you told other people that you were doing something else? It could be that someone else called and invited you some place and you told them you were staying home for the evening. Some simply are doing things that they shouldn’t be such as out at a club when their significant other thinks they are actually at home. It happens. Nonetheless, the new check-in has socially become a feature that can make or break relationships.

Smile, Dance, Work ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

Bar Spill

Nick & John @ Emerald City

Lauren Mitchell & Stepanie @ Emerald City

Emerald City’s very own Monica Heart & special guest Tanisha Cassadine

Erick & Brian, what a cute couple

Saturday night DRINK and DROWN @ Emerald City J-Cub Working it out on the dance floor of Emerald City

The first lady of Pensacola Ebony Sinclaire

Rick, Jamal, Jon & Jase @ the Other Side

Audrina Diamond making the boys smile @ Emerald City

pensacola papar azzi

re you ready Lafayette? Jules’ annual White Party is literally right around the corner. Get ready to spiffy up that white dress shirt because the time has come. Make sure that you’re in the right set of mind because such an event only occurs once a year. August 13th marks the date. I’m pretty sure Jules would love to send out a postcard alerting you to save the date but that would only take time from the planning that must be done. Jules owner Darren Parker has strictly instructed me that, “There will be many surprises ahead but alas it must but kept in secret.” I did attempt to obtain the secret of this year’s White Party but unfortunately I must admit that I was not successful. I suppose we shall all wait and see. Aside from this well-anticipated event, don’t forget the weekly schedule of Jules. Thursday night is hosted by Blake Duhon’s country-free karaoke. Friday night is the Best Drag Show followed by the well-known Saturday Dance, Dance, Dance! For those of you who are accustomed to making Monday night at Tonic part of your weekly habit please be advised that Tonic will no longer be operating on Mondays. Don’t get too sad because Tonic will still be available the rest of the week. As always Tuesday night is the infamous Talent Show. Wednesday is karaoke with DJ Chad Evans, Thursday is Drink N Drown with DJ Macky Ray, and Friday welcomes the weekend with Ladies Night. On August 20th the Royal Order of Unicorn will host yet another Trailer Trash Ball at Tonic. Last year set an interesting standard. As always, don’t forget to check out the following Facebook pages for the most up-to-date information: Jules, Lafayette Gay Men, Lafayette Lesbians, DJ Macky Ray, T With a Twist, and Tonic Lafayette. Of course Ambush is always available online at AmbushMag.COM.

Acadiana CARES The Oriental Goddess, Regine Phillips

Bachlorett at Drag Bingo @ The Other Side

his year Acadiana CARES will celebrate its 25th year in operation. Such a milestone

LLoyd & Brian @ The Other Side

[continued on 37]

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B-Bob’s cast member Miss Regine Phillips with Stevan

is not something to be casually overlooked. Many take such an organization for granite while many have no idea what it stands for. CARES, which is successfully headed by Mr. Claude Martin, is a staple to the Acadiana Community. When HIV/AIDS first appeared on the American front many were afraid. The news media reported it as an “Epidemic among the gay community.” In 1986 and NBC news report announced, “Scientist at the National Center of Disease Controls in Atlanta today released the results of a study which shows the lifestyle of some male homosexuals have triggered a rare form of cancer.” Suddenly not only homosexuals, as they once called it, but heterosexuals began to acquire the ‘disease’ and then homosexuals were banned from donating blood. People instantly developed fear of the unknown. The LGBT community immediately became the culprit. A terrified nation began to point fingers. Suddenly a young boy, Ryan White, developed AIDS via a blood transfusion. This young heterosexual boy was expelled from his school simply for acquiring the life-threatening disease. Parents pushed to have him removed in fear that he would spread his disease to local children. By 1987 a glimmer of hope; a probable cause of HIV/AIDS was found and people began to realize that it could happen to anyone. Finally people began to become educated. What at one time was thought to be a death sentence today has become a small mishap in life. Decades later, unfortunately, this virus still kills. A local organization, Acadiana CARES, still strives to get the word out. Each and every day the mission to educate, prevent, and to provide services has been at the heart at each and every staff member and volunteer at Acadiana CARES. An organization, which literally began from the trunk of a car, has grown to a campus that today reaches out to the local community. Today Acadiana CARES is an active organization in the area. CARES serves as a venue to reach out and provide free HIV/AIDS testing, prevention classes, and provides housing and wellness to HIV/AIDS patients in need.

Brandon & Jessica take a break from the University to see the show @ B-Bob’s

Most of all, keep in mind that Acadiana CARES caters more than just to the LGBT community. Such an organization caters to the entire area regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, and gender. This is a place for everyone. As a community, we must celebrate a very important organization. For more information about Acadiana CARES please visit acadianacares.org or call 337.233.2437. Please join Acadiana CARES on August 27th for its anniversary party at Tonic. Guests will include Kandy Cayne, Rose Room, and many others. “One for one, the positive voice to educate and save the life of another.”

Greg & Mitch @ B-Bob’s with Miss Cie

Perform, Enjoy, Party ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John

Jarrid & Edward enjoying the night out

DJ Leroy spinning tunes @ B-Bob’s Maury, Jayme & Jason attend the Concert Series at B-Bob’s Miss Nadja Simone performs with Miss Cie & B-Bob’s cast on her birthday!!

Cari, Stevan, Josi & Gina party @ Gabriel’s Foam Party Bryant, Jeremy & O’Brian ...enjoying the concert party @ B-Bob’s

From Tampa, Florida, Miss Felicity Lane, performing @ B-Bob’s with the Cast

Terry, Corey & Dennis having a party @ B-Bob’s

Tony & Eric with Peter & Queen Michelle, Order of Osiris XXX

Weston, Steven & Jason enjoying the Nappie Awards Night, downtown

From Australia, Miss Courtney Act, performing @ B-Bob’s, on her Disgraceland Tour

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ambush

papar azzi

Dining Out For Life @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown

Lauren Brown & Cathy Fox in FourPlay

Justin does a drive by on Sunday by Lafitte’s Hot boys of Summer @ Bourbon Pub Parade

Girls’ Night Out @ The Corner Pocket with bar baron Michael Elias

Lots of boys @ JohnPaul’s all the time Club LAX’S Toby meets some sexy guys @ Oz on Sunday

Men in for FourPlay @ JohnPaul’s

Barbara Ella “Gets the Boot” farewell show @ JohnPaul’s

Varla Jean Merman in FourPlay @ JohnPaul’s

Bartender Anthony gets distracted while working Friday night @ Corner Pocket

Trash Disco Sundays @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Antoinette, Elizabeth & Barbara join Corner Pocket hostess Lisa Beaumann

Amon-Ra takes in Trash Disco @ Lafitte’s

Popping in for cocktails @ JohnPaul’s

Girls Night Out with Cha Cha @ Good Friends

Blanche DeBris does Drag Dingo so lady-like @ Oz

Lafitte’s Dennis & manager John @ Trash Disco

Barbara Ella meets a fan @ 700 Club

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Catch Us If You Can ~ New Orleans ~ photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

Danny, Jeff & Chris join Dining Out For Life @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown

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