2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 30-Sept em ber 12, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
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8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 30-Sept em ber 12, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
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on the Park, 834 N. Rampart; Rawhide 2010, 740 Burgundy; Good Friends Bar, 740 Dauphine; Bourbon Pub, 801 Bourbon; Napoleon’s Itch, 734 Bourbon; Oz, 800 Bourbon; Ambush, 828 Bourbon; and Cafe Lafitte in Exile, 901 Bourbon.
the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Ambush Celebrates 40th Anniversary of Southern Decadence & Labor Day Weekend
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mbush Mag celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Southern Decadence along with other hot events across the Gulf South on this Labor Day Weekend Wednesday, August 31st through Labor Day, Monday, September 5th. In this edition readers will find some 56 pages in ads featuring the most events ever held in Southern Decadence history as well as happenings in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, Mobile, Pensacola and Slidell. Nine pages in photos will bring gay life, music and culture to life, as well as some 38 pages of color. You will not know what you will want to see and do without checking out the various venues, bars, restaurants, galleries, shops, spas, hair salons and Ambush's extensive classified section beginning on page 46.
[continued on 20]
THE OFFICIAL MAG
New Orleans Mayor Issues Welcome to Southern Decadence Visitors
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ew Orleans 61st Mayor Mitch Landrieu issued the following statement in celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Southern Decadence. The celebration has garnered welcomes from the previous three mayors in including Mayor Sidney Barthelemy, Mayor Marc Morial, and Mayor C. Ray Nagin. "Welcome: It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 40th Annual Official Southern Decadence Celebration in the City of New Orleans. While you are here, I hope that you will take some time to visit our historic French Quarter, fine restaurants, music and entertainment venues. Our city is known for its vibrancy and rich culture, so please be sure to enjoy everything New Orleans has to offer. I extend my best wishes for a fun and enjoyable celebration. Have a wonderful stay in New Orleans. --Sincerely, Mitchell J. Landrieu, Mayor, City of New Orleans"
Flurry of Southern Decadence Activities & Events
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here are a flurry of activities and events leading up to the 37th annual Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4th. The parade is free and open to the public, so get on your costume and join in this bar crawl stopping at all 15 GLBT bars in the French Quarter. Sixteen businesses on the parade route once again sponsored the parade this year covering the parade permit and police detail expenses including: Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal; Le Roundup, 819 St. Louis; Double Play, 439 Dauphine; The Corner Pocket, 940 St. Louis; Society Page, 542 N. Rampart; 700 Club, 700 Burgundy; The Ninth Circle, 700 N. Rampart; The Voodoo Bar, 718 N. Rampart; Micheal's
NO/AIDS Walk, SD Highlights Issue out Sept. 13 DEADLINE: Tues., Sept. 6
inside
celebrazzi/official sd poster 16 snap paparazzi/new orleans 22 under the gaydar 24 snap paparazzi/new orleans 34 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 36 trodding the boards 40 40th southern decadence 41 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 42 a community within communities 44 classifieds 46 acadiana happens/lafayette 50
travel feature/lake charles travel paparazzi/lake charles 18th s.d. bead toss mobile/pensacola paparazzi spotlight chop chop/nola restaurant guide travel paparazzi/lake charles acadiana paparazzi/lafayette 22nd no/aids walk halloween (hno28)
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com
52 54 56 58 60 64 68 70 73 74
find all of the events, parties and activities celebrating "Gay Life, Music and Culture" throughout the city. Visit SouthernDecadence.COM for the latest. The 2011 Southern Decadence theme chosen by the Grand Marshals 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
37th Southern Decadence Parade 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 Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander. They will be joined by Misael's lieutenants including: Tara Rubio, Toby Lefort, TJ Conrad, Cameron Geckeler, Rick Dickerson, Frankie Wingerter, Tyler Roberts, and Sean Michael; and Tiffany's lieutenants including: Pat McArdle, Craig Domiano, Venus Santiago, Brad Robbert, and Tami Tarmac. It is followed by the 18th annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss led by SDGMs Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander at Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street, hosted by Southern Decadence Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha. On Friday, the weekend kicks off with the 2nd Annual Knights of Decadence Parade, 7:30pm, starting at Washington Park, going to Decatur to Canal on to Bourbon to Dumaine ending at Cafe Lafitte in Exile. There will be 15 floats in the parade led by Grand Dame Blanche Debris of Oz fame. The parade is under the direction of Captain Toby Lefort. It is followed the the annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals' Drag Show featuring SDGMs Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander with guest emcees the Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha. Be sure and see Tony's Tidbits of Gay Wisdom: Southern Decadence for his list of must do's for Decadence on pages 30 and 32. By no means are these the only things going on at this year's celebration. As you flip through the Official Southern Decadence Guide, you will
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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the"official" dish ...from 12 New Orleans, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, Sir Speedy Printing and SouthernDecadence.COM.
HRC on the Road to Decadence
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n the Road to Equality is the Human Rights Campaign’s nationwide bus tour to spread the message of equality by educating the American public and empowering lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to become advocates for themselves and their families. The 12 week tour will travel to 17 cities in 11 states and D.C., with particular emphasis on the Midwest and South where there are limited legal protections for LGBT people and living openly and honestly can be difficult. The tour comes as a new nationwide poll from HRC finds that Americans widely support LGBT equality issues but more work remains to be done. HRC’s “On the Road to Equality” bus tour is coming to the Big Easy! Join the organization on the campus of Tulane University and experience the amazing equality exhibits at the bus! Come be a part of history and share what equality and fairness mean to you. It begins on Thusday, September
1 with Open House: The Equality Bus at Tulane University from 10am to 3pm in the Quad behind Lavin-Bernick Center, off Freret St. Then on Friday, September 2 it's Open House: The Equality Bus at the same location from 2-7pm. The event is free and RSVP on Facebook is recommended.
Thousands to Participate in 22nd Annual NO/AIDS Walk
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O/AIDS Task Force, one of the oldest and largest AIDS service organizations (ASO) in the Gulf South will mark the 22nd anniversary of the NO/AIDS Walk on Sunday, September 25th. Thousands will gather beneath the oaks in Audubon Park beginning at 8am and then Walk at 10am in an impressive display of awareness and solidarity in the face of this terrible epidemic. Louisiana currently ranks fifth in the nation for AIDS case rates; New Orleans and Baton Rouge are among the top ten cities nationally. Walkers and supporters are encouraged to meet in Audubon Park at 8am for registration. The WALK will kickoff at 10am and will proceed down historic Magazine Street to Napoleon Avenue and then will turn onto Prytania Street and head back into Audubon
Park. The Walk is a great activity for the whole family, even the four-legged members. There will be water stops and doggie stops along the route and a children’s tent with lots of great activities. Additionally, there will be great food and drinks provided by Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown, Rain Vodka, Coors Light, and Kentwood Springs. The music and registration kicks off at 8am and will run until 2pm that afternoon. Teams and individuals can register for free in advance by visiting www.noaidswalk.com or by calling 504.821.2601 ext. 256. By registering online, participants have access to great, easy-to-use fundraising tools to help them reach their goal. All funds raised at the Walk benefit NO/AIDS Task Force and the men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS they serve. Additionally, through the Walk Share Grant Program, other Louisiana based AIDS Service Organizations will benefit too. Rest assured that every dollar makes a difference. The NO/ AIDS Walk is committed to keeping costs low, especially in these tough economic times. Over 80 cents of each dollar raised goes directly to helping someone affected by this disease. “The NO/AIDS WALK is our largest fundraiser of the year, and the monies raised allow us to continue
providing hope and care for men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS,” said Noel Twilbeck, CEO of NO/AIDS Task Force. “The WALK also serves another purpose which is to raise awareness that AIDS continues to affect our community and that we must be steadfast in our efforts to provide education and information that help prevent new infections” For additional information or to register, please visit www.naoidswalk.com or www.noaidstaskforce.org. The NO/ AIDS Walk staff can also be reached by phone at 504.821.2601. For over 28 years, NO/AIDS Task Force has been providing hope, care and compassion to thousands of men, women and families affected by HIV & AIDS in Southeast Louisiana. The Task Force acknowledges that the complications of HIV-disease are not just physical, but mental, emotional and social as well. That is why our agency offers a full spectrum of care at low to no cost, including services such as: an HIV medical clinic, food pantry, home delivered meals, housing, mental health, medications, and many others. NO/AIDS also remains committed to the health of our entire community and reaches over 20,000 each year through HIV prevention education efforts. [continued on 24]
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SDGMs XXX Irish Mike, IV Robert Laurent & XXVII Errol Rizzuto Queen Amon-Ra XLVI Tami Tarmac in FourPlay @ JohnPaul’s How decadent!?! An imposter snatches Tiffany’s coveted spot!
A guest & SDGM XIX Jamie Temple Opal, John & Tony @ JohnPaul’s Winston leads his 80th Birthday 2nd line @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern
SDGMs XXXVI Julien Artressia & Toby Lefort with Frankie Fierce
SDGM XXXI Rusty does the deed for SDGM XXX Irish Mike
Maybelline Mascara in FourPlay @ JohnPaul’s Winston’s 2nd line band
SDGMs XXXIII Regina Adams & XXXI Rusty LaRoux
Celebratin’ Winston’s 80th @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern Ninth Circle/Voodoo’s Greg, SDGM XXXIV Marcus & SDGM XXXV Paloma
SDGM XXXIII Lisa Beauman & couturier Ray Cole
Tony serves up giant boiled shrimp with bar baron Chuck @ Double Play
SDGM XXX Irish Mike reciprocates for SDGM XXXI Rusty LaRoux
SDGM XXXVI Julien Artressia & SDGM XIII Fish with one of Harrah’s gracious attendants
Miss Tubby’s Golden Lantern Mercedes Ellis Loreal on stage @ the Lantern
Otis behind the bar @ Double Play
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The Big Easy ~ New Orleans
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Dinner @ Harrah’s Hotel ~ New Orleans
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXVII Misael Rubio & Tiffany Alexander
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Are Your Ready To Be Depreciated?
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he Gay Depreciation Awards have arrived and it is sure to be a night filled with humorous antics, special performances and some good natured ribbing. Think of this as a roast of the gay community. It is not meant to be hurtful or humiliating; on the contrary, it is a way for people to let off steam and have fun with each other. Anyone taking this personally needs to lighten up. Now voting will continue until September 6 at midnight. Below you will see the top five people listed in each category in alphabetical order. These are not the finalists, just the top five as of right now. You can still vote and either push someone listed below to victory in a category or knock them out completely by nominating someone else. So cast your ballots for your “favorite” person or business in each category. The Gay Depreciation Awards will take place on Friday, September 9 at 8pm at JohnPaul’s Bar. I will be joined by Elizabeth Bouvier as your emcees for the evening. There will be special performances by the past two Voice of Pride winners Damian Faul and Derrick Stevens, as well as a few surprise guests. Just a few of the presenters of the awards this evening will include Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, Opal Masters, Cathy Fox, Barry Rutherford, Countess C. Alice, Richie Rich, Persana Shoulders, Russell Slaterlee, and Rikki Gee. Voting is easy; you click on the link http://www.ballotbin.com/ voterReg.php?b=24681, insert your email, then a link is sent to your address. Once you receive that, vote away. You get one vote per email address. The top five nominees so far are as follows: Most Boring Gay Event: The Gay Appreciation Awards, Miss Gay New Orleans Pageant, Miss Louisiana Leatherette, NOLA Pride, Petronius 50th Anniversary Ball; Worst Bar Bathroom: Big Daddy’s, Oz, Phoenix, Pub, Rawhide; Hustler of the Year: Ashlee The Traffic Trannie, Paul Chiriaco, Manny Carrillo, Tony Leggio, Richie Rich;
Player of the Year: Tiffany Alexander, Lance Baggett, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio, Richie Rich; Fag Hag of the Year: Becky Allen, Rikki Gee, Monica Malta, Ginger Miller, Joanna Wilson; Worst Drag Performance of the Year: Coca, Corynne Deville, Wendy Kennedy, Eva Las Vegas, Tami Tarmac; Biggest Passed Around Party Bottom: Lance Baggett, Bobby Fisher, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio, Jordan Meaux; Most Monogamous Couple: Marty Curtain and Koo Gaffney, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, Cathy Fox and Barry Rutherford, Chris Leonard and Jeff Kiefer, Opal Masters and Darwin Reed; Social Climbing Award of Excellence: Barbara Ella, Lonnie Cheramie, Deja Déjà'Vue', Tony Leggio, Chris Leonard; Best Gay Scandal/Drama: Gay Pride, JohnPaul's, Kajun's Pub, Oz, Southern Decadence; Bartender Most In Need of A Career Change: Manny Carrillo, Bobby Fisher, Lance Pippin, Cha Cha Martinez, Monique Michaels; Gayest Straight Man (Category Renamed): Paul Chiriaco, Johnny Hotness, Mitch Landrieu, Misael Rubio, Tami Tarmac; Nelliest Gay Man: Cathy Fox, Ren French, Tony Leggio, Paloma, Persana Shoulders; Butchest Bull Dyke: Misti Ates, GI
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Jo Divelbess, Gino New Orleans, Red formerly of the Phoenix; Sissiest Leather Man: Bubbles Champagne, Cathy Fox, Toby Lefort, Sammy Naquin, Gary Vandeventer; Biggest Douchebag of the Year: Darrin Ferris, Tony Leggio, Ryan Rivers, Persana Shoulders, Sandy Sachs; Hottest Mess of the Year: Ashlee the Traffic Trannie, Elizabeth Bouvier, Cathy Fox, Tony Leggio, Princesse Stephaney; Now remember, these are just the top five finalists in each category as of right now. You do not have to vote for these particular people, bars or events, [continued on 26]
the "official" dish ...from 20
Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On
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mage Entertainment is delighted to present the Divine Miss M’s triumphant return to Las Vegas with Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On, available on Blu-ray and DVD on October 4th. The New York Times exults, “Like all great showgirls, she [Midler] may wear sequins like a second skin, but the woman underneath is all flesh and blood, humor and heart.” The $10 million extravaganza played over 300 performances in a nearly three-year run at the famed Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace. The Blu-ray is SRP at $24.98, with the DVD’s SRP at $19.98. Pre-book date is September 6th. Taped before thousands in The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, the 70-minute cavalcade features many of Ms. Midler’s colorful and classic stage and screen characters. Joining her on the gargantuan stage is an energetic corps of talented performers, including the staggering Harlettes, twenty dazzling dancers she calls The Caesar Salad Girls and a 13piece band. Ms. Midler’s superstar power shines in renditions of her immortal songs including “The Rose,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “From a Distance,” “Hello in There” and “Wind Beneath My Wings.” The production is nominated for a 2011 Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special. The DVD was produced by Midler and Seanne Farmer; directed by Midler; executive produced by Midler; choreographed by Toni Basil with original stage production conceived and directed by Midler. Image Entertainment, Inc. is a leading independent licensee and distributor of entertainment programming in North America, with approximately 3,000 exclusive DVD titles and approximately 340 exclusive CD titles in domestic release and more than 450 programs internationally via sublicense agreements. Visit www.imageentertainment.com for more info.
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under the gaydar ...from 24 there are many other runners-up that can be moved up in each of the categories. So do not limit yourself to these five selections unless you like one of them. There is a minor $5 cover charge to attend the awards ceremony. We are expecting a large crowd, so get there early if you want seating. And stay after the show for the girls of ForePlay.
Add Some Glitter to Your Life
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he Krewe of Areminius is a fabulous soiree that will bedazzle all who attend. Their Glitter and Be Gay Patron Party will occur on Saturday, September 10 from 7 to 10pm. Tickets are only $25 for this hosting
sparkling event which includes cocktails, food, plus a silent auction. There will also be a door prize where the winners will be crowned Prince and Princess and will be presented at the ball with the Armeinius Debutramps. The Glitter and Be Gay Party will be held at the Fredrick Guess Studio at 910 Royal. For tickets or more information, go to www.kreweofarmenius.org.
Satyricon Creates Carnage!
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he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is hosting the opening night of one of the most anticipated regional premiers in the Crescent City, God of Carnage, on Wednesday, September 14 at 8pm. This 2009 Tony Award Winner by Yasmina Reza will be directed by Ricky Graham and stars Spud McConnell, Maureen Brennan, Lara Grice and Gary Rucker. The story revolves around a playground altercation between eleven-year-old boys that brings together two sets of Brooklyn parents for a meeting to resolve the conflict. At first, diplomatic niceties are observed, but as the meeting progresses, and the rum flows, tensions emerge and the gloves come off, leaving the couples with more than just their liberal principles in tatters. NY Newsday calls God of Carnage “Brutally entertain-
ing.” The New Orleans cast has big shoes to fill. The original Broadway cast included Jeff Daniels, James Gandolfini, Hope Davis and Marcia Gay Harden. All four actors were nominated for Tony Awards with Harden winning the Best Leading Actress if a Play. The production also won Best Play and Best Direction of a Play. Currently Roman Polanski is directing the film adaptation starring Jodie Foster, John C. Reilly, Christopher Waltz and Kate Winslet. This is definitely one comedy you do not want to miss. For tickets, call 504.525.4498.
It Is A Piece of Cake!
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he Krewe of Petronius is hosting another unique event after coming off their Memories of a Gaysha and Dragging with the Stars affairs. I attended both and have to tip my hats to these guys for putting on these unusual but festive experiences. I actually participated in the last event and came in second place as my Star drag queen dressed me up in a garbage bag ensemble. My star was Dragzilla (Chad) and he is a guru with a trash bag. Unfortunately, I was beat out by the hysterical Pat Johnson from the Lords of Leather who was put together by Princesse Stephaney. Coming up next for the krewe is Petronius: Queen of the Desserts on September 17 at 8pm at Kajun's Pub. The cover for this event is $10 for this cake walk and show where guests will bid on the sumptuous desserts being modeled by our favorite performers. The Kajun's Pub is located at 2256 St. Claude Avenue. For information or tickets, go to www.kreweofpetronius.org. [continued on 28]
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under the gaydar ...from 26
Stage Door Canteen Swings Into Southern Decadence
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he Stage Door Canteen in the National WWII Museum is presenting Mark Nadler: In A Nutshell. Nadler is one of the top cabaret performers in New York and has a huge gay following. Shows are September 1 – 3 with dinner at 6pm and the show at 8pm. Dinner and show is $60 and the show only is $30. Nadler is described as Victor Borge if he had been able to sing and tap dance. Mark plays the piano with fire and virtuosity, sings songs that range from touching ballads to outrageous comedy and even tap dances, while playing the piano and singing. He is a renaissance man, comedian, musician, dancer and singer all rolled into one. For tickets call, 504.528.1943 or visit www.stagedoorcanteen.org.
Interview: Douglas Sills
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he 2011/2012 New Orleans Broadway season kicks off on September 15 with The Addams Family at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre. I was able to catch up with one of its stars Douglas Sills who plays Gomez Adams. Sills has received Tony and Drama Desk nomina-
tions as well as the Los Angeles Ovation Award for his performance as The Scarlet Pimpernel both on Broadway and on tour. Most recently he starred in the Chicago tryout of the new rock musical White Noise, which local audiences may remember as having its first incarnation here in the Big Easy. I actually met Douglas last year when his partner, the fabulous cabaret singer and recording artist Todd Murray played at le Chat Noir for a Satyricon benefit. So when asked what star I wanted to interview from the show, I knew who to request. In addition to his work in the theatre, Sills has starred in Deuce Bigalow: European Gigilo and Funny About Love as well as many television shows such as Will And Grace, Murphy Brown, Sabrina, Any Day Now, Party of Five and The Closer. The musical comedy The Addams Family is kicking off their national tour in New Orleans so it is very exciting to have this show here. TL: I know you have been to New Orleans before, tell me about your first time to the city. DS: I came to New Orleans for the national tour of Into The Woods at the Saenger Theatre. It was many years before Katrina and I fell in love with the city. I will never forget it, the locals who worked on the production threw a crab boil behind the theatre for the cast; it was great. And with Todd’s recent
performances here, we both have a special fondness in our hearts for New Orleans. Your city is one of the top cities that performers on tour want to visit. TL: What are some of your favorite things to do here? DS: New Orleans is not like any other city, it is very unique. Many of the cities we travel to all seem the same, but not New Orleans. I love the architecture and even though it is a tourist city, it never seems that way to me. I also love the art scene here. I love walking down Julia Street and checking out all the great galleries. I always make it a point to stop at my friend Bryan Batt’s shop, Hazelnut on Magazine Street when I am down there. I like just strolling down the street checking out all the shops. And the food is incredible. I love Commander’s Palace, Stella’s and so many others. TL: Tell me about The Addams Family. What can audiences look forward to seeing? DS: The show is a chance for people to rub elbows with their favorite characters again. These characters speak to every age range, whether you were a fan of their movies in the nineties, the series in the sixties or even the cartoons from The New Yorker which dates back to 1938. The show is wonderfully funny and touching, and even though the characters are so lovingly ghoulish and macabre, they
still have normal family problems. I think that is what is so humorous; that even though these characters are so wacky and odd, they are at the same time just as normal as anyone else. I love our directors Phelim McDermott and Julian Crouch and our choreographer Sergio Trujillo, who is making my tango even more complex. TL: What are some of your favorite scenes from the show? DS: This may change once we get up and running but since we are in practice right now, I would say the opening sequence definitely. It is one of those big Broadway numbers where the entire cast gets to sing right way. I also love my Tango scene with my wife played by Sara Gettelfinger. Sergio went to Buenos Aires and came back with a much more complex dance than I thought. I cannot wait to see how audiences react to it. Another very fun and zany scene is when Wednesday brings home a “normal” boy and his family to meet the Addams. We all try to act typical for them and it becomes very La Cage Aux Follesesque in a lot of ways. TL: Tell me more about the cast? DS: We have some awesome talent in this show, but the chorus in this show is outstanding. There is nothing in the world like an incredible Broadway chorus; it feels like I have a whole [continued on 30]
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under the gayday ...from 28 army behind me; I feel safe. The choreography is very sexy and these kids know how to move. TL: How do you feel the LGBT community will like the show? DS: I think the show especially talks to the LGBT community in several levels. These characters embrace their uniqueness and strive not to fit the normal roles put on them by society. They are outsiders trying to adapt to an ever changing world. This is definitely something the gay community can relate to. Even though people consider the Addams as freaks in some ways, they are very much as normal as anyone else and have the same problems as other families do. It is a great story on family values and it speaks to the fact there is nothing wrong with being an outsider. It shows that being a little freakish inside is a good thing. I wanted to create a respectful Gomez that audiences would appreciate and love. TL: Is there is one last thing you would like to say about the show? DS: Yes, we have a lot of New Orleans newbies in our cast, so please come out and see the production and show them some of that great charm your city is known for. The Addams Family is running from September 15 – 24. For tickets, go to www.mahaliajacksontheatre.com
or www.ticketmaster.com, or call the box office at 504.287.0351.
Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom: Southern Decadence
A
re you ready to get decadent? Here are some fun things to do over the weekend of Southern Decadence that straddles the fence between fun and carefree, to naughty and wild. The weekend is brimming with great events, not limited to the ones listed below. These are my top ten picks of some of the hottest musts on your weekend list. 1. Do not miss the Bourbon Street Extravaganza free concert hosted by Napoleon’s Itch on Saturday, September 3 starting at 4:30pm at the corner of St. Ann and Bourbon Streets. Chuck Robinson and his staff have put on amazing concerts for the last seven years and this one is no exception. The line-up includes Synergy Dance Productions, Voice of Pride Winner Derrick Stevens, Jeanie Tracy, Mary Griffin and Deborah Cox. 2. Of course, you need to be a part of the Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4 starting at 2pm at Tubby’s Golden Lantern (1239 Royal Street). Whether you are partici[continued on 32]
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under the gaydar ...from 30 pating in the parade or just being a spectator, it is always a good time, and is always FREE and open to the public. From hotties in very little clothing to full blown out drag ensembles, the costumes are creative and inspired. 3. And this holiday would not be complete without the official Southern Decadence Bead Toss which takes place approximately 4ish pm on Sunday, September 4 at Ambush headquarters (828 Bourbon Street). The toss is hosted by the Susan Lucci’s Rip and Marsha and is sponsored by Ambush Magazine and SouthernDecadence.COM. SDGMs XXXVII Tiffany Alexander and Misael Rubio will lead off these festivities. 4. You have three choices of pure man meat on Thursday, September 1 at midnight. Choose one or try to make all three, either way, you will not be disappointed. The first one is the Dick of Decadence contest upstairs at Café Lafitte’s ($5 cover); the second is the Strip-Off contest hosted by Persana Shoulders at Oz; and last is Chi Chi LaRue’s Infamous Big Dick contest at the Bourbon Pub. 5. If you like drag, then this next event is right up your alley. The Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Drag Show begins at 10pm at Tubby’s Golden Lantern on Friday, September 2. It will feature the current SDGM’s Tiffany Alexander and Misael Rubio as well as former grand marshals and many more, with special guest emcees the Susan Lucci's Rip and Marsha. The best way to describe this event is like a drag marathon. 6. One of our more interesting social krewes is celebrating the holiday with a costumed fete that is simply decadent. The New Orleans Radical Faeries are presenting Moulin Rouge: Love or Lust at JohnPaul’s Bar on Friday, September 2. The licentious fun will commence when the doors open at 9pm. This is their Prince of Perversion Ball which encourages crazy attire. The colors are black, white and silver. The master of ceremonies this evening will be Rebecca Rae. The main show will begin at 11pm and the “Collarnation” will happen at midnight. There is a $10 donation, but no one will be turned away. JohnPaul’s
is located at 940 Elysian Fields. 7. Something that I enjoy doing every year and is a great way to jump start your day is the Southern Decadence Grand Marshals brunch and Make-up party at the Friendly Bar (2301 Chartres Street) from 11:45am to 1:45pm on Sunday, September 4. Watch the grand marshals and their entourages get made up in costume and finery before the parade while you enjoy cocktails and a very scrumptious and filling brunch. Then you can walk with them as they make their way down to the parade start. 8. The Phoenix hosts two night of pure mischief on Friday and Saturday, September 3 and 4 at their annual Block Party, this year Fluid from 8pm to 2am. This is always fun and the men are abundant. Check the their three page ads in this edition or the bar’s website for their schedule of sexy porn stars throughout the entire weekend. 9. What is a great party without the sufficient amount of recovery time? Well, the Country Club (634 Louisa Street) holds their annual Recovery Party from 10am until on Monday, September 5. This is New Orleans only pool and hot tub party. Quite a way to beat the heat while doing a slow simmer looking at all the hot naked bodies in this clothing optional club. 10. And if you manage to come out of the weekend unscathed, it is not over. The 14th Annual Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by Cruise Director Ted Mahaffy, is held on Monday, September 5 at 2pm. It is done as a final honor to SDGMs XXXVII Misael Rubio and Tiffany Alexander. The crawl begins with snacks at The Corner Pocket, then to The Double Play, Le Roundup, Society Page, 700 Club, Ninth Circle, Voodoo Bar, ending with the annual BBQ @ Michael’s On The Park. Like I explained before, this is just a highlight of all the events the entire weekend. For more expanded information, flip through this huge edition of Ambush or go online to SouthernDecadence.COM. Have a safe and decadent weekend! If you have an event or news item you would like me to cover in this column, please contact me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.
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paparazzi
Bartender Sammy hails from Bourbon Pub Parade
Georgeanna Belle & David in for the first Girl’s Night Out show SDGMs XXXVII Misael & Tiffany pop in for Double Play’s 10th anniversary Oz bartender Blake
Barry & Cathy Fox @ first Girl’s Night Out show Chris of Bourbon Pub Parade fame in Japan @ one of the holy shrines Bartender Kevin serves his signature drink “The Kiddie Punch” @ Cafe Lafitte's
Lord King & Consort Ben & Pat @ JohnPaul’s
Long-time Cafe Lafitte in Exile bartenders Aletha & Jeff
Queen Petronius L Bootsie Deville in Girl’s Night Out Golden Lantern Show Director Rikki Redd & Brian @ Lafitte’s
Randall & renowned photographer Larry Graham @ JohnPaul’s
Bartenders Otis & Will join bar baron Chuck for Double Play’s 10th anniversary
Lakita Lowdown, Big Mama & Coca Mesa star in Double Play’s 10th anniversary show
SDGMs XXXVII Misael & Tiffany raise dollars for SD Charity NO/ AIDS Task Force @ Lafitte’s
Kajun’s Pub’s Joann & Lisa
Lts. TJ & Cameron flank SDGMs XXXVII Misael & XXXVI Toby @ Lafitte’s
Jim & show director Deja DejaVue’ in for the first Girl’s Night Out show @ Kajun’s Pub
Bobby Ramone in for first Girl’s Night Out
Deja, David & bartender Ashley @ Kajun’s Girl’s Night Out
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The Crescent ~ NewCorkern, Orleans 2Hot Action ~ New Orleans ~ Photos byCity Ricci Frankie Fierce, Tony Leggio,
snap
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ambush
papar azzi
Kajun’s Pub DJ Punkinhead
Anjelica, Big Mama Lavouge, Lakita & Victoria in Billy’s 18th anniversary show
Dancer Taylor competes in Barry Bareass Booty Show
Dancer Dusty on the bar @ Corner Pocket Monalot Fontaine @ Kajun’s Pub
SDGM XXXVII Misael strips down @ The Corner Pocket Voodoo bartender Rai
Lords of Leather Wacky Wagon racer Keny
Sherry Lavouge & Melissa Marquee celebrate Billy’s 18th anniversary with Chuck in Slidell
Bar baron Bill celebrating Billy’s 18th anniversary in Slidell
Dancers Brandon & Cody competing in the Barry Bareass Show @ The Cornor Pocket
Michael’s on the Park bartender Paul & dancer Cody @ Corner Pocket
Frankie Fierce @ Wet N Wild Tuesdays @ Oz Tommy shooting pool @ Ninth Circle
New Miss Gay Baton Rouge America Josalyn Royale in Baton Rouge Ninth Circle bartender Kai
Barry Bareass with 1st Place Booty Show winner Dusty & 2nd place Taylor
Belinda Bee, Frankie Fierce & Valerie Sugarbaker @ Miss Gay Baton Rouge America
Inside La Mina Sterling with Poncho on Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street
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Around the State ~ New Orleans, Slidell, Baton Rouge
Crowns galore @ Miss Gay Baton Rouge America
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Thoroughly Modern Millie at Slidell Little Theatre through Sept. 11
W
hen Thoroughly Modern Millie opened on Broadway, The New York Times’ Ben Brantley used such phrases, as “a giddy mishmash”, “harsh brightness” and “loud pastels” to describe it, and not necessarily in a good way. But that was just seven months after 9/11 so maybe such giddiness was what was needed to help restore New Yorkers’ spirits. Millie went on to win the Tony Award for Best Musical that year (beating out Urinetown and Mamma Mia!) and had a respectable run of 903 performances. Having seen the original production, I was in the Brantley camp, underwhelmed by the movie-turnedstage-musical’s charms. Reviewing it in these pages in December’02, I wrote that it was “a show for those who liked Crazy for You and Me and My Girl. I didn’t, however, and found Millie’s first act silly and flat. Songs, dances and plot improve in Act Two to make it enjoyable if still somewhat thin.” In its transition to community theater favorite, however, something interesting has happened to Millie. Shorn of its insistent Broadway peppiness, a certain warmth now comes through which mitigates its silliness. The first act is still too long as we’re introduced to Kansas-born Millie who’s come to Manhattan to seek a rich husband, but by trying less hard it becomes more appealing. Rivertown Rep’s 2007 production and Mt. Carmel’s earlier this year each profited from this more humanistic approach, and I came away from both much more satisfied than when I left Broadway’s Marquis Theater. Slidell Little Theatre’s current production also benefits from this interpretation but comes up a little short, especially in Act One. Though such numbers as How the Other Half Lives and The Speed Test (a patter number set to music by Sir Arthur Sullivan) bring the show to exuberant life, Millie requires a uninterrupted snap and crackle that eludes it here. Scene changes go on a bit too long while cues are not always picked up as fast as they should be. Whereas momentum should build to the first act finale, a stop-and-go quality prevails. Director Scott Sauber has done fine work in the past, winning an Ambie Award for Best Director of a Musical in 2007 for SLT’s Singin’ in the Rain, another musical set in the 1920s. I suspect he is aware of these shortcomings and simply ran out of rehearsal time; having seen Millie during its first weekend, I expect the show will have tightened up by now. Many other things can be commended, however. Sauber provides
nice introductory staging for the Overture, and the more involving Act Two sails along; I Turned the Corner/Falling in Love with Someone, a beautiful blending of voices and visuals, particularly stands out. Josh St. Cyr, a wonderful Don Lockwood in SLT’s Singin’ in the Rain, once again demonstrates what a superb singer/actor/dancer he is as Trevor Graydon, Millie’s strait-laced boss. St. Cyr is clearly in on the joke but doesn’t let on, wittily balancing a caricature of uptight corporate rectitude with Graydon’s flesh’n’blood yearnings. Melanie St. Cyr (Josh’s wife) makes a delightful Millie with her powerful yet lovely voice. Had she been a little less determined, or a little more vulnerable, she would have been perfect. Another fine actress/vocalist, Julieanne Natal, was all peaches and cream as Miss Dorothy, Millie’s best friend, dulcetly crooning Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life upon seeing Graydon yet ultimately finding love with another. Daniel Lund, IV also sang with a great voice (is there something in the water in Slidell?), and was very, very good as Jimmy Smith, Millie’s foil and love interest, even if he lacked the edge to make him a believable playboy waiting to be reformed. Nikki Lively excelled more as a singer than an actress as Muzzy Van Hossmere, a kind of fairy godmother to Millie. It’s not entirely her fault; though the role brought Carol Channing an Oscar nomination for the movie, Richard Morris & Dick Scanlan’s book doesn’t give an actress much to work with on stage. I’ve always found Mrs. Meers, Millie’s landlady and a trafficker in white slavery, slightly grating. Suzette Ferrari, a dexterous comedienne, proved why the character’s an audience favorite, though, reveling in Meers’ impersonation of an Oriental dragon lady as well as the second rate acting skills that brought her to this low point. Joshua W. Brewer and Mikey Willman avoided the worst stereotypes as her put-upon Chinese assistants, bringing as much dignity as possible to the roles.
As Flannery, a martinet of an office manager, Alee Peck finally gets to let go in the second act opener, Forget About the Boy. Sporting a red beehive hairdo harpooned by multiple pencils, Peck is way over the top but never out of character as she mugs outrageously and taps up a storm. Her Flannery generates a genuine frisson of spontaneous aesthetic exhilaration that all such marvelous comedic creations do. Katie Peck has choreographed some lively period dances, though the execution of them sometimes exceeds the ability of her ensemble. Whereas some chorus members seem to the Jazz Age manor born (e.g., Jonathan Urbina), others, well, try hard. In addition to directing, Sauber provided the dapper costumes. Unlike SLT’s full-bodied Evita, Musical Director Karl Harrod’s orchestra sounded a little wan; Millie’s bouncy score would seem to necessitate less woodwind and more brass. Some other details of this production were likewise questionable. Why did all the women in the office steno pool have gray hair? It made them look like the Little Old Lady chorus from The Producers which SLT will be presenting later this season. Why was there no moving elevator? Prod into functionality by tap-dancing, it’s as much a character as Flannery or Muzzy. Substituting a stationary flat was somewhat confusing and deprived the show of a certain panache. And while it might have been unavoidable to position the screen that provides Chinese-to-English translations high above the proscenium, couldn’t a brighter color than violet have been used for the lettering? Never mind. Including dinner at the nearby Palmettos on the Bayou beforehand, Thoroughly Modern Millie provided me with a most pleasurable, quick getaway from New Orleans to Slidell...as well as from Recession’11 to the Roaring ’20s.
The Rat Pack Now at The Stage Door Canteen/National WWII Museum thru Sept. 11
T
hose who prefer the swinging ’60s to the roaring ’20s should head over to the WW II Museum’s Stage Door Canteen where The Rat Pack Now plays its final weekend Sept. 9-11. In 75 brisk minutes, from Luck Be a Lady to The Lady is a Tramp, this celebrity tribute show conjures up a time when superstars simply sang, unencumbered by circus-y pyrotechnics. Robert Hoose, Jr., Art Poco, and Dezhon Fields portray, respectively, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.; if you squint, they kinda look like their prototypes. Twenty classic songs and lots of old style humor pro-
vide their material. Rat Pack Now captures the schoolboy bonhomie these giant entertainers shared. Interestingly, Sinatra and Martin are usually positioned closest to each other on stage, Davis slightly apart, reflecting, I think, not so much any latent racism (Sinatra & Martin stood by Davis and helped to integrate Vegas) as the group’s pecking order; Davis was half a generation younger than the other two and famous but not quite as famous as them. Hoose’s Sinatra comes off best. Not only does his voice sound closest to the original, but he understandably gets the best material. I Got the World on a String and My Way are expected crowd pleasers, but Hoose’s sincere rendering of The House I Live In was a moving highlight. Martin’s playfulness comes through in Poco’s portrayal. He’ll do a little shtik then build on it, often egged
Art Poco, Bob Hoose & Dezhon Fields in The Rat Pack Now! on by Sinatra, until he threatens to go overboard. Seldom without a glass in his hand, Poco keeps an audience guessing as to how sober, or not, his Martin is. Vocally just a notch below Hoose, Poco does well by Mambo Italiano, That’s Amore and, of course, Everybody Loves Somebody. While Fields captures Davis’ body language, a certain resonance is missing from his voice. That could be overlooked, but Fields noticeably lacks Davis’ singular charisma making for a somewhat uneven partnership with Hoose & Poco. Still, Fields uses his dancer’s background to create a touching Mr. Bojangles. Based out of Miami, one appreciates that Rat Pack Now has inserted some NOLA-specific material into its script; it thus may not be inappropriate to have Sinatra acknowledge the WWII Museum but it breaks the mood to some degree since it didn’t exist when Ol’ Blue Eyes passed away thirteen years ago. No matter. A recent audience, mostly but not exclusively senior citizens, including some WWII vets, clearly related to the gents in black tie on stage, having seen them live or many times on television. Recreating an era [continued on 44]
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ambush
papar azzi
The Red Dress Run in the French Quarter
Paul serves up cocktails for Michael’s on the Park grand opening
Princesse Stephaney & Persana Shoulders host Drag Bingo @ Oz
The Red Dress Run in the Balcony Bar
Red Dress Run on Bourbon Street
Bar baron Cookie St. Ann-N. Rampart & Mom celebrate grand opening of Michael’s on the Park
Decadence Shoppe’s Matt & Kevin flank Cookie for the grand opening of Michael’s on the Park
Blake & Bill in for Michael’s on the Park grand opening
Tutu Cox, Cookie St. Ann-N. Rampart & Nancy Pokeahotass behind the bar for Michael’s grand opening
Princesse & Pat in Petronius’ Dragging with the Stars @ JohnPaul’s
Lauren makes up Pat for Petronius’ Dragging with the Stars
1st place winner Pat & 2nd place Antoinette Ella Chardonnay flank Petronius Queen Bootsie Deville @ Dragging with the Stars
Regina Adams & Eva Las Vegas in Golden Age Revue @ JohnPaul’s
Countess C Alice joins Petronius’ Dragging with the Stars @ JohnPaul’s
Hotties on a Sunday afternoon @ JohnPaul’s
Laura with Fifi Mahoney’s staff & owner during Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street
A model gets painted during Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street
Julia & Carolina during Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street
Johnny Passion in Petronius’ Dragging with the Stars @ JohnPaul’s
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Sassy on the Mississippi River ~ New Orleans
Frank & Zsa Zsa ready for Petronius’ Dragging with the Stars
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a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
DECADENCE and DODWELL HOUSE
D
ecadence is a difficult word to use since it has become little more than a term of abuse applied by critics to anything they do not yet understand or which seems to differ from their moral concepts. - Ernest Hemingway “Only in New Orleans”, an oft repeated anthem, for locals in the Crescent City and we know what that means. It means that we have grasped the absurd and made it our own special way of life. A pub crawl ends up with a national phenomena called Southern Decadence; yep, “only in New Orleans!” New York and San Francisco have Gay Pride, so do we, but what we really have is Decadence. It is said that our city is in and of itself decadent. The term is often thrown around and today it has a kinder and gentler meaning; perhaps soft self indulgence. But what is Southern Decadence really all about? As a priest I do not easily warm up to such grand public bacchanals. Drunks and licentiousness, pandering to purely sexual desires is not something that honestly and truly elevates the human condition.
But is that what Southern Decadence is really all about? On the surface perhaps it is at least a spectacle. Deep in its core a community is in fact making a claim and a statement albeit in Bars and on Bourbon Street; along the by-ways of Bywater and Marigny. It is, using a southern euphemism, a bodacious statement of life and living that gathers in, celebrates, and invites all to the party. Someone else celebrated and gathered in. Jesus, who would tweak the tails of the established culture, would eat, gather in, invite, and celebrate. Like Decadence he was decried and despised by some corners of society, a society that lived in fear, and brought their indignation to bear upon the most innocent of men – Jesus. Jesus decried most the disenfranchisement of people Decadence responds to disenfranchisement that only in New Orleans would take shape and form – balloons and glitter say, “I am here and I am proud of who I am! Wanna party?” Not perfectly Christ-like, perhaps only a remote parallel. But still, both gather in rather than cast out; both invite rather than reject. In the same way Dodwell House seeks to gather in; to be a safe place for everyone. Dodwell House is a dream. It is a vision of how we can be in a place to be it. It is an old house perhaps once thought decadent in its splendor in 1846 especially for a woman who built it and owned it. It has a promise of providing space for the most at-risk children in the country (we rank 49th in child mortality). It offers hope to the fastest growing population in the city, Latinos who build new lives can learn to speak English and become more productive contributors to our common life (we have 150 students). Dodwell House [continued on 50]
trodding the boards ...from 40 that’s so classy compared to today’s trashiness, these iconic figures seem almost quaint. One wonders what future celebrity tribute shows might be like after Britney, Justin (Bieber, especially, but Timberlake too), and Lady Gaga are gone. In the meantime, and just in time for Decadence, on September 2nd and 3rd The Stage Door Canteen will be presenting New York-based Mark Nadler in his cabaret Mark Nadler In A Nutshell. Nadler is an award-winning multi-talented entertainer who has performed at Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops Orchestra as well as at venues from Europe to Australia. Well-known for his appearances with KT Sullivan, and his gigs at Sardi’s and the Algonquin Hotel, Nadler was recently heralded by The New York Times as “a comic spark plug touched with brilliance.” For Mark Nadler In A Nutshell, audiences are promised virtuoso piano paying, emotion-filled songs, outrageous comedy, and even tap dancing accompanying the aforementioned piano playing and song singing. I asked Nadler if he would like to share with us any further details about the show and he said, “I really don’t like the audience to know in advance what I’ll be doing, as it takes away the element of surprise.” After twisting his arm a bit, he revealed that, among other material, “I’ll do an arrangement of the Gershwins’ ‘S Wonderful with Rhapsody In Blue, probably Birth of the Blues by DeSylva & Brown, and Peter Allen’s Everything Old Is New Again.” Anyone who wants to expand their Decadence experience to include one of our top tier cabaret performers would be well-advised to head over to The Stage Door Canteen. Having last seen Nadler in New York in the 1980s when he was just starting out, I am so looking forward to seeing him again here.
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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
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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
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 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 [is1511]
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
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 MATASSA'S MARKET, 1001 Dauphine St., 512.8700 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 (Conti-
46 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 30-Sept em ber 12, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • August 30-Sept em ber 12, 2011 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 47
nental 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 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253,FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. Email 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. Beautiful and spacious townhomes available to accommodate groups of any size adjacent to the hotel. Just 3 short blocks from Bourbon St, with free Wi-Fi and complimentary continental breakfast and access to two beautiful pools. Covered off street parking available. 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 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, “Spectacular, very unusual piece of property” with balconies of varying design ringing the courtyard. Circa 1880 Historic New Orleans Home lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms. Just steps away from Armstrong park, Bourbon St, and most of the popular gay clubs, bars, and restaurants. With two pools, free WiFi and complimentary continental breakfast. Secured off street parking available. 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 Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666
organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2
nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday 12:15pm Solumn Mass, 5pm Praise & Worship, at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, w w w . b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , pastor@bigeasymcc.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com,
fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, Email: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 701566836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. IN THIS TOGETHER, HIV/AIDS Case Management, 2511 Bayou Road, Suite B, 70119; Office: 504.962.3245, Fax: 504.962.3246; 962.3245, w w w.inthistogetherinc.org, michael@ittnola.org KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, info@kreweofarmeinius.org, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 71665, 70172, Pres. Arthur Alarcon 451.9507, Capt. Bill McCarthy 430.6695, KreweOfPetronius.ORG KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LESBIAN & GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF NEW ORLEANS, 2114 Decatur St., 701162013; 945.1103, Fax 945.1102, Email: info@lgccno.net LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 770435, New Orleans, LA 70117-4035, LordsOfLeather.COM LOUISIANA STATE GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (LSGRA), 915.3339, lance@lsgra.com, LSGRA.COM 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
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OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION: NOLA PRIDE, 2114 Decatur St., 945.1103, NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 Softball: NOLA SOFTBALL LEAGUE, nolasoftball.com THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 Until It Is OVER, Inc., Executive Director Don S. Evans, Sr., 5837 De Bore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70126, Phone 504 722 1694, Fax 504 286 5784 VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] KREWE OF APOLLO/SHREVEPORT, PO Box 4918, 71134 PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCA AIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717
pets New Orleans, LA [504] CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 511 Dumaine; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455 FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845 FRENCH QUARTER VET, 922 Royal St., Office 322.7030, Cell 250.1175, DrScott@TheFrenchQuarterVet.COM
pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312
photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com
plumbers New Orleans, LA [504] PIPES "R" US PLUMBING, “Let us PEEP in your pipes”, 140 N. Carrollton Ave., Office 504.866.2730, Fax 504.484.0907, PipesRUsNewOrleans.COM RAMSEY PLUMBING, repairs, repipe, sewer & drain cleaning, water heaters, disposals, 296.6865
real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] FRENCH QUARTER REALTY, Agents: Gary R. Williams 251.2047, Sandy Preston 319.7500; Office 949.5400 PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Brett A. Rector, Cell: 453.2277, Office: 891.6400, brettinla@aol.com
restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ,3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965 Cajun Cafe Market, 1100 N. Peters in the French Market, 905.3212
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 Krystal, 116 Bourbon @ Canal, 523.4030 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Matassa's Market, 1001 Dauphine St., 512.8700 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 Royal House Restaurant, 441 Royal St., RoyalHouseRestaurant.COM, 528.2601 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] BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 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 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 Slidell, LA [985] TANNER ORIGINAL ART, 830 Royal St., 524.8266
spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com SPA ATLANTIS, 740 Gravier, 566.8088, SpaAtlantis.NET
tattoos New Orleans, LA [504] AART ACCENT NEW ORLEANS, 1041 N. Rampart St., 581.9812
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 SOUTHERN REP THEATRE, Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 3rd Floor, 522.6545, SouthernRep.COM
websites CRESCENT CITY, CrescentCity.COM GAY AMERICA, GayAmerica.COM GAY BARS, GayBars.COM GAY PENSACOLA, GayPensacola.COM OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM
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acadiana happens by Joey Collins, Lafayette, Louisiana Email: ejcollins583@gmail.com Twitter: JoeyC_583
J
ust because school is back in session does not constitute the end of fun. Let’s get this party started.
Recapping a Night Cap
F
irst off let me begin by making a suggestion. Drinking wine is not an activity that should be done when you plan to head out to the bar. Wine is a major downer. It will relax you, make you feel fatigued, and will mess you up. Mr. Hunter Lee, please remember that next year. We all certainly enjoyed your pre-party/ Birthday Party at Trynd on the night of the White Party. You were a very gracious host but I swear you finished off at least two bottles of white wine before 10pm and barely made it across the street to Jules. Cut to you throwing your own small party in the Trynd restroom, chain smoking and all. People in the main restaurant area were very surprised to walk in and see that though it did provide great entertainment as the breeders walked in to see a gaggle of gays hanging in the a community ...from 44 offers hope through faith in St. Anna’s Episcopal Church that says and believes that “All are welcomed none are shunned.” This center for hope and community seeks support. To date we have raised over $135,000. We will be finishing phase one, the dependency, to be used to house volunteers for rebuilding the city, and housing for staff. We still need your support and engagement in building the dream. Phase two and three will cost over $300,000 and will be center of our dream. During Southern Decadence while dancing in the street, doing an annual pilgrimage to pub or restaurant, watching a show and enjoying who we and you are - think for just a moment– is there a place for me at Dodwell House; a safe place of refuge for good work amongst all people? The answer is YES! As a priest I can only say be safe; have fun; respect one another; and be sure and certain that you are loved. You are loved not because of what you do or do not do but because you are who you are – God’s good creation. Do not pander to the expectations of peer pressure and find yourself doing things that may harm you or others, as the psalmist says, “Walk upright with integrity.” But you can still have fun!...”Only in New Orleans!”
men’s room of this fine establishment. Kudos to you, do you even remember the White Party? Thanks again for yet another memorable night. Thanks also go out to all those who participated in the annual White Party at Jules. It was a stunning evening as the bar was decked in white linen and great drink specials. Even though a certain bottle of vodka was missing from the shelf, the night was still a success. Thanks go to Darren Parker for your very hospitable staff, you really know how to white-out the evening. This past Saturday night was the annual ROU $1.98 Trailer Trash Ball at Tonic. Kudos are awarded to Mya Nicole and her Taco Bell-inspired attire. The use of fast food wrappers as a costume was very creative. Walking out with the chiwawa really completed the outfit. As always, Mya Nicole graced the stage with yet another infamous number. Acadiana CARES board member Kindrick Benoit and his hard-working committee planned an amazing week to commemorate CARES’ 25th Anniversary and the beginning of a Gay Men’s Wellness Center. A silent auction was held at CARES and proceeds went to benefit the CARES campus. Supporters of Acadiana CARES were treated to a free BBQ and a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the official opening of Acadiana’s first Gay Men’s Wellness Center. This center
will serve as a safe and confident medical venue for gay men in the Acadiana area. I encourage you all to stop by and check out the amazing growth of the Acadiana CARES campus. Once you find out about the many amazing programs that are growing on this campus, you will truly see how this is such a hidden treasure in our area.
Roadkill Diner
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ocal playwright, Dennis Ward (Chez Gisele), has done it again! Roadkill Diner is set to take the stage this September 9th and will run for three straight weekends. This comedic melodrama tells the story about the dysfunctional Nutt family set in the Roadkill Diner. Big Daddy Nutt has just died leaving his family with nothing but debts. The eldest daughter, Ima Nutt, sets out on a mission to put the Nutts back on top. Along her path she runs into many other characters such as Connie Coffee, a fiery AK-47 tongued Roadkill Diner waitress. Annie Lu Nutt is a beautifully talented waitress who provides musical interludes and dreams of becoming a star along with Dub Nutt, her drag queen, gender bending, straight husband. Local radio station, KARP, streams roadkill alerts along its airways and informs people where to scrape up the freshest meat. Let’s not forget KARP’s sponsor, Ethyl Mae’s Beauty and Chain Saw Repair. Whatever you do, beware of Tina and Teeta Nutt and the mischief they will bring. If you enjoyed the cast of Chez Gisele then you’re sure to enjoy the production of Roadkill Diner. Dennis Ward and his talented performers are excited to bring this crazy story to the stage. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.citedesarts.org or by calling 337.291.1122. Original music and score is by the incomparable singer/songwriter Roddy Barnes.
Bar Spill
E
very year around this time I am asked about what theme party I have up my sleeve. Each year to observe my birth
I like to throw a huge party simply for the hell of it. So what, who cares? Well to answer the inquisitive ones, this year’s party will be titled Project Funway. Inspired by Project Runway, guests are asked to do anything but clothes, so to say. No, this isn’t a nudist party. This party is to inspire you to be creative, come up with a theme, and design your best possible outfit. The party will be on Saturday, September 17th, at Jules Downtown. Doors open at 8pm. See you there! Tonic has been buzzing with several drag shows a week. From Tuesday Night’s Talent Night to the Krewe of Divas on Friday nights to finishing off the week with Sunday Funday, pretty much every single night is a major event. It’s almost impossible to keep up with it all….almost. Come see what all the talk and fuss is about. Don’t forget that John Gilland and staff appreciate your loyalty. Each and every Monday night is set aside just for you. Customer Appreciation Night features $1 wells, $2 domestics, and $3 premiums. Also on the same night is Beer Pong with Big Girl. Where else could you find such a great deal? Jules still rocks the house each Saturday night with Dance! Dance! Dance! and don’t forget about Thursday nights with country-free karaoke hosted by Blake Duhon. As always, for the most up-to-date information please follow the following Facebook groups: Ambush Magazine, Lafayette Gay Men, Lafayette Lesbians, Jules, and Tonic Lafayette. Don’t forget that Ambush is always accessible at AmbushMag.COM.
Closing Out
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know, I know, many of you are experiencing withdrawals right now. With the recent fire scorching Agave many have found themselves without a drunken patio downtown patio experience. Don’t worry, I’ve spoken with the Balbeisi brothers and Agave will be up and running in no time. In the mean time you can still get your potent margaritas and favorite quesadillas right next door at Trynd. Check it out. In the mean time keep it safe Lafayette! As always, keep the party going!
For further information and to become a part of the dream go to www.dodwellhouse.org or www.stannanola.org or e-mail fr.bill@stannanola.org or simply call 504.847.2121. Dodwell House is located at 1519 Esplanade Ave. just two blocks from St. Anna’s Episcopal Church which is at 1313 Esplanade, “All are welcomed none are shunned.”
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travel feature by Tony Leggio E-mail: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Ambush on the Road: Lake Charles
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am ashamed to say, that I have been a native Louisianian my entire life and have never really ventured to Cajun country. I have driven through Lafayette and Lake Charles once or twice, but never to visit. Recently, I got the opportunity to visit the wonderful city of Lake Charles and what I discovered was a hidden oasis in Calcasieu Parish filled with history, luxury and a very vibrant LGBT community. First I would like to thank Tico Soto and the entire staff of the Lake Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau for arranging this amazing trip for me. Their Southern hospitality went far above and beyond what I could have imagined. I began my journey to Lake Charles on Wednesday afternoon leaving work midday for three days of R&R. Lake Charles is a straight shot from New Orleans on I-10 passing through Baton Rouge and Lafayette as well as a dozen or so other small towns whose names sounded slightly familiar. One word of advice when driving to Lake Charles, watch out for speed traps. There are several on your way where the local law enforcement officers target tourists. After all we are the only source of income for some of these small towns. So other than the speeding ticket given to me by a redneck policeman from St. Martinville who made Enos from the Dukes of Hazard look worldly, the ride was uneventful. I stayed at L’auberge du lac Casino Resort and from the moment I checked in til the day I left, I experienced luxury and customer service at its finest. This is truly a five star property in my book. I valeted my car and was met in the lobby by Tico with my room key. The lobby was a grand entrance with two roaring stone fireplaces bookending the room. We briefly went over my itinerary for the next few days and I got settled into my room, which was very spacious with a view of their impressive golf course. The Contraband Bayou Golf Club was designed by world-renowned golf architect, Tom Fazio. It’s a 7,077-yard, par-71 championship 18-hole course—the only public Fazio course in the state—featuring a combination of aquatic and natural vegetation among eight picturesque lakes. Later that evening I met Tico for dinner. He arranged a dinner at 121 Artisan Bistro which was a refined eatery which had delicious cuisine, great
service and a very inviting atmosphere. Our dinner companions that evening were several important members of the gay community. It was probably one of the most enjoyable and memorable dinners of the entire trip. I had an opportunity to sit with each person and learn about their profession as well as get a keen insight on what the city has to offer people in the gay community. Present at the dinner were Derrick Guidry and Paul Picheloup: owners of Derek and Paul Entertainment Design; Brian Duvic: General Manager of the Spring Hill Suites; Chad Galicia: owner of the Coffee Beanery coffee shop; Chance Quirona: Mr. Lake Charles Gay Pride and Adam Manuel: who is one of the major people behind Lake Charles Gay Pride. Each man was interesting, lively and delightful. Not to mention they were an especially good looking group, as was our staff from the restaurant that evening. The manager Matt was just dreamy and our waiters Darryl and Daniel were great eye candy. Wednesday nights are martini nights, so the libations flowed. I highly recommend the Belletini. After dinner, we decided to all go to Crystal’s, Lake Charles only gay bar. This seems to be one of the hubs of the LGBT social scenes in the city and that night it had a very decent crowd. Bartenders Robert and Keisha took very good care of us. This evening was talent night for anyone who wanted to perform and the drags queens were a plenty. I met so many, and they were all very personable and I am looking forward to seeing many of them soon when I go to the miss Gay Louisiana Pageant in September. We partied, did some shots and closed the bar down at 2am. Imagine me closing a bar down. We all then went to a breakfast hot spot called Katie’s for some great late night eats. After dinner, Adam took me back to the hotel for some late night gaming. It was truly a pleasurable night with some great new friends. The next day, Tico picked me up for a day of touring around Lake Charles. Our first stop on the agenda was the Mardi Gras Museum located in the Central School Arts and Humanities Center which was built in 1912 and is the cornerstone of the Historic Charpentier District. How did this area get its name? The romantic history of Lake Charles began with the first French settlers in the 1760s. The lumber boom was responsible for the rapid growth of the city in those early years, and allowed for the extensive use of solid pine and cypress construc-
tion of the homes in historic downtown Lake Charles. There were no true Architects in the area until the early 1900s, so each house reflects the characteristics of each builder or carpenter. These carpenters got their plans from pattern books, but were very creative in combining elements and details from various styles. Those carpenters of that early age were honored by naming our Historic District “Charpentier” (char peh ti ay), which is French for carpenter. The District was admitted to the National Historic Register in 1990. I met the exceedingly handsome Executive Director of the Arts and Humanities Council while I was there, Matt Young along with his staff. I even got a chance to meet his partner who stopped in during my tour. There are so many progressive happenings occurring in Lake Charles, it seems so odd to consider it a small city. Continuing with the tour of the Mardi Gras Museum of Calcasieu Parish, I discovered it was all about the costumes. They have a storied history of Mardi Gras krewes and currently have two gay ones, the Krewe of Illusions and the Krewe du Carnivale. Many of their elaborate costumes are found in the museum. Then we took a tour of Shell Beach Drive and all the grand homes along the thoroughfare. Most of these majestic homes come with an even more grandiose boat house across the street on the lake. Picture Saint Charles Avenue on the lake. Our next stop was the Imperial Calcasieu Museum where we were given a personalized tour by the charming Executive Director Susan Reed. There were many exhibits showing life back in the founding days of the city. There was a photo display of their famous fire in 1910 that nearly destroyed the town and engulfed seven entire city blocks. Hence most of the buildings are having their hundred year anniversary now, since they had to be completely rebuilt after the fire. Their collection of John James Audubons is very notable. They also have an exhibit of how the wars affected the parish from the Civil War to WW2. They even have an outfit for a female military person from WWI created by Abercrombie and Fitch. Before it is the incarnation we see today A&F sold high end hunting clothes. Who knew? Now they sell expensive crap to twinks and muscle daddies who still think they are young. But I digress. After our tour, we went to lunch at this wonderful gay owned establishment downtown called Pujo Street Café. It was a very warm place with great Cajun/Creole cuisine. Once again we ran into Adam who works there part time as a server. The food was outstanding, with their specialty being their Shrimp Bisque. Next we stopped at this recently opened quaint wine outlet called The Wine Store where I met the owner Martha. They had many inter-
esting wines and offer wine tastings every Thursday from 5 – 7pm. After retuning back to L’auberge, I took an opportunity to work out at their very well-equipped gym that includes use of the sauna and hot tub. After my workout, I had a few services in the spa scheduled for me. I had one of the best massages in my life there by the extremely talented Jack. All my kinks were worked out and any stress I had in my body had dissipated after that. Next I had a pedicure with a soothing foot massage. The spa pampering there is first rate. After changing, I met up again with Tico for dinner. Before we went to the restaurant, we went to this very small and comfortable neighborhood bar called Lucky Pierre’s for a drink. We met Josh, the very handsome gay bartender there. After our cocktails, we went to an appealing Mediterranean restaurant called Cedars. This family restaurant is very relaxed. But do not let the casualness fool you; the food is magnificent especially the baked kibby and their house eggplant dish. They also had a decent wine list. One thing I noticed about Lake Charles is they do not lack for good restaurants. After dinner, I went back to the hotel, gambled a little in their casino then had a nightcap at their centerpiece tavern in the middle of the gaming floor called GLO Bar. The circular bar is probably one of the more upscale lounges in the city and has a nice vibe. The bartenders and cocktail waitresses are very attentive and service was prompt. But after my cocktail, I turned in early. The next day I was on my own for a day of total leisure. I got up and worked out then changed and someone from the hotel’s marketing department escorted me around for a back of house tour. Jennifer began the tour with a showing of the villas for their super high rollers. These rooms are like tiny homes with your own butler and staff, they have fully stocked bars, courtyards with their own private hot tubs, separate check in facilities and helicopter service if they so wish. These rooms rent normally for $2,500 a night. But the best part of the room is the bathroom, which is probably the size of my house. The feature that is so interesting is the bathtub’s facet is in the ceiling so the water rains down on you like a waterfall. The architecture as well as the artwork not only in these villas but throughout the entire property is remarkable and definitely not what I expected. We also toured the Garden Suites which although smaller, do not lack in refinement. We toured the different restaurants on property, their shops and their meeting spaces. But the best was the tour of the pool area. It is not just a pool; it is a complex of fun. Their cabanas usually rent for $250 per day and have all the comforts of home from televi[continued on 55]
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lake charles
Cutie Robert behind the bar @ Crystal’s
papar azzi
Tico & Tony center with the men of Lake Charles @ 121 Artisan Bistro Justin & Brian @ Crystal’s
Hottie manager Matt flanked by equally hot waiters Daryl & Daniel @ 121 Artisan Bistro
Keisha reigns behind the bar @ Crystal’s
Mr. Gay Pride Lake Charles 2011 Chance & Mother of Pride @ Crystal’s
The extremely sexy Adam & Tony @ Crystal’s
The Mother of Pride pours Tony a shot upon entry @ Crystal’s
Justin is proud of his piercings @ Crystal’s
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Highlights ~ Lake Charles, Louisiana ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
L’auberge du lac Casino Resort ~ Lake Charles, Louisiana ~ Photos by L’auberge, Tony Leggio
Owners of Crystals in Lake Charles &Tonic in Lafayette John & Billy
travel feature/lake charles ...from 52 sion and refrigerator to your own private wait staff. The lazy river is quite the experience snaking around the entire area. One of my favorite features about this area is that the pool area is divided into two sections, an adults only part where no one under 18 is allowed and the main pool for everyone, which has the swim up bar and the lazy river. They have a huge concert series during the summer that bring in some big names in music and pack the pool every Thursday night. Hell, they have their own man made beach, I mean really, a beach! They have boat slips where people can park their vessels for the day or evening. Throughout the tour of the facility, I noticed that everyone at L’auberge is committed to excellence and their customers are their number one priority. It is very rare you see such employee conscientiousness. After my tour, I tried lunch at the Jack Daniel’s Bar and Grill, which is the only one of its kind in the United States. It is casual dining during the day and on weekend nights it turns into a music and dance club. The food is definitely Southern home cooking. I tried two of their specialties, the shrimp and cheese grit cakes and the pulled pork over a baked potato salad. I can see why these dishes are their number one sellers. They also have a great selection of beers on draft and the staff looks like they are right out of Hazard county. The waitresses all wear Daisy Duke shorts, half shirts and boots that would put Catherine Bach (or Jessica Simpson for those younger ones) to shame. They know their target audience. You need to try this place and hopefully you will see someone eat their famous Big Ass Burger which stands almost 1 foot high, has seven meat patties, several layers of cheese and all the
fixings. It weighs in just less than eight pounds. WOW! But so far no one has ever been able to finish it. If you eat it, your meal is free. Next I continued my indulging by going to 1740 Barbier, an old fashioned men’s salon. It is a barbershop with a twist, sort of along the lines of Aiden Gill here in New Orleans, in fact I believe that is where they got their inspiration. I had a cocktail in their relaxation room while I waited for my services, which was
quite a gem itself. The room was filled with vintage Playboys from the 60’s and 70’s as well as cigars to enjoy and sports on their large screen television. I am not quite their market, since I don’t smoke, tried to change the channel to [continued on 60]
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pensacola papar azzi
Timothy, Michael, Stevan & Queen XXX Michelle party at B-Bob’s for Saturday Night Drag Concert
The one & only Tina Turner, aka Penny Holliday
mobile
papar azzi
The Master of Mayhem & Glitter, Genre’ performs at B-Bob’s
Patrick, we sure will miss ya when ya go to VEGAS
AWWW they are so cute when SOBER
Rick & Valerie @ The Other Side The Guys & Dolls come out to B-Bob’s Andrea Alaska always surrounded by the boys @ Emerald City
B-Bob’s welcomes newest bartender Ricky, shown here with bar owner Jerry Andrea & Brandon @ Emerald City
Bunnie serving it up on the dance floor @ Emerald City
Always a good night to go out on the patio @ Emerald City
Miss Cie with Daytona Beach, FL’s beautiful & talented Amber Douglas joining the cast @ B-Bob’s
Pick an emotion... JUST ONE!!
Bruce & Steven @ The Other Side
Daniel @ Emerald City
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Boys, Sober, Serve ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell
Party, Drag, Talent ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John
Kat serving it up on the patio @ Emerald City
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spotlight Sir Speedy Renews Sponsorship of “Fastest Woman in the World”
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ir Speedy recently welcomed Leslie Porterfield to their International Convention in Las Vegas, celebrating a successful first year of sponsorship and looking forward to a second. In 2010 Leslie attempted to become the fastest person in the world on her turbocharged Sir Speedy Honda. She already holds a Guinness World Record as the fastest [continued on 66]
travel feature/lake charles ...from 55 the Golden Girls and read only the articles in the Playboys, but it was fun. I had the haircut and shave, which I opted for the Poker Face which includes a facial and neck massage. Rae took wonderful care of me and this is something I highly recommend having done. It is just the right combination of pampering and masculinity at the same time. After I tried my hand at a little gambling, although not winning, I thoroughly enjoyed playing at several of the over 1,600 table games and had fun playing blackjack. They have over 65 table games to choose from and the cocktail waitresses were spot on, I never wanted a drink. If I lose my money, a drink at least eases the pain somewhat. That night for dinner, I had reservations at Ember Grille and Wine
Bar. Now this was a dining experience, the food was tantalizing. Being a horrible carnivore, I was ready for a great steak and they had a numerous selection. I started with the baby lamb chop appetizer which was mouth-watering then moved on to the 14 ounce bone in ribeye, medium rare. Truly a taste bud sensation, the meat was so tender and the choices of sauces were diverse. I opted for the foie gras butter sauce and blue cheese crumbles and a wild mushroom side which alone could have been my meal. The wine list was paradise and I was able to sample a few by the glass. That night, Tico had arranged for a transport to take me to Crystal’s. It seems Friday nights are their hopping evenings with people coming from as far as Texas. The owner of Superior Taxi and Limo service herself picked me up in a black Escalade. Temika
was a friendly and funny woman who has great business acumen; her company was voted the top one in the city. I have to admit, felt like a superstar when I rolled up onto Crystal’s that night. But before stopping there, I paused at the Spring Hill Suites to take a look at their facility and visit Brian. The lobby was very unique, modern, yet retro at the same time. The rooms were in the same style and just as spacious. The hotel is only minutes away from L’auberge and receives their overflow sometimes. They also can accommodate small meetings and events. When I arrived at Crystal’s it was around 11am and somewhat slow, but by midnight the place had heated up quite substantially. I sat with John the owner for a long time talking about his bar and its origins in 1987. He also talked about his other bar Tonic in
Lafayette, which stay tuned, Ambush will be hitting that neck of the woods soon. Anyway my bartenders this evening were Nicky, Keisha and Robert who made me his specialty drink “Walk Me Home Baby Jesus,” which has vodka, pineapple, rum, gin and blue curacao. This blue elixir almost did me in, but I was able to mingle and meet tons more people like DJ Ken (who is as talented as he is good looking) and his mother who works the door Anjanette, who just also happens to be Mother of Pride this year. I love that idea of voting a mother of a LGBT person to represent. Very different. I even met a hot crawfish farmer, a first in my book in many ways. Check that off the bucket list. Needless to say, I had so much fun at the bar I lost track of time. The car returned back for me, thank God, in the wee hours of the morning. Some of the partiers met back at the Casino for a few last drinks at the GLO Bar then we called it a night. The next morning I awoke and got on the road to return to NOLA. L’auberge du lac rivals any resort I have been to of late and definitely any of the properties in Vegas. For those looking for an ideal spot to getaway that is not far from home check this place out. And the city of Lake Charles and its surrounding areas have plenty to see and do. You can be guaranteed, I will definitely not be a stranger to this area (and the boys at Crystal's).
Pride Pumps & Plates
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t’s almost like dinner theatre but not. Lake Charles very own Kandace Munro is hosting a kick-off party for Pride on September 9 at the ballroom at the historic Charleston in downtown Lake Charles starting at 7pm. There are advanced tickets and reserved tables. All donations benefit Lake Charles Pride and Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council. I met Kandace and I assure you this is a night you will not forget. For more information, email PridePlatesPumps@aol.com. Have dinner and fun for a worthy cause.
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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
New Orleans Restaurant Guide 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. Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy
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. 11am-9pm, Sat.-Sun. brunch 11am-3pm.
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.
Cajun Cafe Market, 1100 N. Peters in the French Market, 905.3212, offers local Cajun specialties where you can dine in or take out. Great selection of Louisiana products available here. Open 10am-6pm.
Royal House Maine Lobster, served with drawn butter, Cajun potatoes & corn on the cob @ Royal House, 441 Royal St.
Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon, 504.52.CANDY, is an upscale dessert & specialty food store, open Tues.-Sun. with weekends 24 hours. Best in desserts, snacks, cheeses, crackers, candies, NY bagels & knishes, smoked meats, 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.
Club Sandwich with Zapp's Potato Chips @ The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart St.
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.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo shrimp with garlic butter sauce over angel hair pasta) @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place
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.
3-Layer Carrot Cake @ Candy Bar, 908 Bourbon St.
Frady's One Stop Grocery & Deli, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688, has both groceries and a fantastic deli whipping up local favorites each day on special. Open Mon.-Fri. 7:30am-6pm, Sat. 9am-3pm, closed Sun. 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. Louisiana Jambalaya @ Cajun Cafe Market, 1100 N. Peters
Matassa's Market, 1001 Dauphine St., 512.8700, a full service grocery and deli serving great food, fine wine and spirits with free delivery. Open Sun.-Wed. 6am-9pm, Thurs.-Sat. 6am-10pm. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Open Mon.Thurs. 5-10pm, Fri. Sun. 11am-10pm.
Roast Beef Special @ Frady's One Stop Grocery & Deli, 1001 Dauphine
New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.
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.
Pan Seared Wild Pacific Salmon
@ Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St.
Royal House Restaurant, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, RoyalHouseRestaurant.COM. This casual dining New Orleans Restaurant has delectable delights created by its renowned Louisiana executive chef. Step into this dining paradise and be swept away by the romantic lighting, the smell of fresh steamed seafood in the famous crawfish boil, raw oysters at one of the city’s largest oyster bars. Sip on a glass of wine or a true New Orleans cocktail with any of their specialty drinks. Let great southern hospitality and casual yet romantic atmosphere help you escape right into the true heart of New Orleans! Open 11am-11pm Sun.-Sat., 11am-12midnight Fri.-Sat.
Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.
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spotlight ...from 60 woman in the world on two wheels, having reached 232.5 mph at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats in 2008. She is currently preparing for a series of fall speed events in Utah where she will ride four motorcycles in four different classes. All bikes will be adorned with the Sir Speedy logo. Leslie’s progress can be followed at www.facebook.com/PorterfieldSirSpeedy.
“Leslie is a wonderful representative for our brand,” said Sir Speedy owners Wayne Chambless and Billie Cox, who own a center in New Orleans. “She is truly a quality individual whose spirit and drive for excellence align well with the values we hold as an organization. We hope to see her break records at all of her 2011 speed attempts.” About Sir Speedy Sir Speedy provides printing and marketing services designed to help companies grow. Products and services include traditional printing, copying and mailing services as well as value-added offerings such as posters, signs, integrated direct marketing tools, and promotional products. Sir Speedy helps companies meet their business growth objectives from lead generation, customer retention and reactivation to brand management and more. Sir Speedy is locally owned and operated and is part of a worldwide network of franchise brands and affiliates that spans more than 600 locations in 13 countries. Based in Mission Viejo, California, Sir Speedy has received numerous awards and recognition including the Franchise Times Top 200, Entrepreneur Franchise 500, Quick Printing Top 100, Printing Impressions 400, an AllStar Top 300 Award, a Franchise 50 Award and a Franchisee Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review. Sir Speedy is located at 343 Carondelet St. in New Orleans. Call 504.586.9812 or visit their website: sirspeedyneworleans.com for additional information.
13th Annual Acclaim Awards Gala Sept. 24
Gala. Master of Ceremonies is Travers Mackel for the event while Lt. Dan Choi will be featured as the Keynote Speaker Honorees include: Arts and Entertainment Award - Krewe of Petronius, Chairs’ Award - Morris Welch, Faith & Equality Award - Baton Rouge MCC & Big Easy MCC, Health Award - Acadiana CARES, Justice Award - Lambda Legal, Political Activism Award - Deon Haywood, Political Leadership Award - Arnie Fielkow, and National Political Activism Award - Lieutenant Dan Choi. There are a few ways to get involved this year: 1) Help Captain the Ship! Become a table captain and fill your table with your friends and family for an amazing night of fun and celebration! All you’ll have to do is find nine friends to join
you at your table. Then join the Forum at the Patron Party on Friday, September 23rd, as a special thank you for all your hard work! 2) Buy tickets to attend the gala: h t t p s : / / equalityfederation.salsalabs.com/o/ 35013/p/salsa/event/common/public/ ?event_KEY=954. 3) Volunteer! Whether it’s the night of the event or helping the Forum get ready, the organization can always use a few extra hands! Use your talents and time to help make this the best event of the year. If you have any questions or want to sign-up, don’t hesitate to contact SarahJane Brady, Managing Director at 504.569.9156 or sarahjane.brady@forumforequality.com.
T
he Acclaim Awards is the Forum For Equality’s annual fundraiser and opportunity to applaud the work of those across the state for their contributions to the LGBT community. Come join the Forum to honor these exemplary individuals and organizations who advocated for the rights and welfare of the LGBT community. They will be honored on Saturday, September 24th at the Acclaim Awards
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lake charles papar azzi
The Lake Charles Mardi Gras Museum
One of the costumes from the gay ball Krewe of Illusions @ Lake Charles Mardi Gras Museum Behind the bar
Paul & Tico An Abercrombie and Fitch outfit from WW1 @ Calcasieu Historic Museum
Two DJ’s from Lake Charles @ Crystal’s Lucky Pierre bartender Josh
Adam back @ L’auberge by the fireplace in the lobby
The bartenders @ Crystal’s
68 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 30-Sept em ber 12, 2011 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide• Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
Crystal’s, Hot & Spicy ~ Lake Charles, Louisiana ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
Live, On Stage, Museums ~ Lake Charles, Louisiana ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
Keisha on stage hosting the talent show on Wednesday nights
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acadiana
papar azzi
Acadiana CARES Director Claude Martin cuts ribbon
Colin, Jason & Joey
White Trash Ball @ Tonic
BBQ @ Acadiana CARES 25th Anniversary Party Miss ROU gets hers @ Tonic
Joey & Todd @ Trynd
The gaggle @ Jules White Party
Jacque & Josh @ Jules White Party
Oh Andre!
Cute couple Marcus & David
Trolls Spencer, Michael & Philip
Happy Birthday Hunter Lee!
Carl!
Rick singing karaoke
Mya Nicole makes an outfit out of Ambush
Kasi @ Trynd
Joe & Steven @ Jules White Party
Mya Nicole’s White Trash costume @ Tonic
Rick & John Blaze
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Acadiana Cares, White Party, White Trash Ball ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Joey Collins
Leah, Ryan & Thomas
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