Out on the Town Magazine: Volume 2, Issue 6

Page 1

JULY 2011 | 1




Out on the Town Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Mike Halterman

Creative Director: Joshua Beadle

Writers: Tori Mattison, Andrew Stankevich, Berneta Haynes, James Hare, Erika Gilliam-Long, Sapphire Nicole Rachels, Mackenzie Azrael, Jerry Johnson, Max Jiminez, Will Baker Photo Credits: Marcellas Reynolds photos provided by interview subject. Nicole Paige Brooks photos provided by www.nicolepbrooks.com. Nancy Lee Grahn photo credited to Adam Bouska and the NO H8 Campaign. Grace and LaLa photos provided by Project Publicity. Photos of 700 Club and Uniques provided by interview subjects. Nicole Paige Brooks cover photo taken by Mathu Andersen for Logo. Special Thanks to: Thanks to Mitch Messinger at ABC Daytime for coordinating the Nancy Lee Grahn interview. Grace and LaLa interviews provided by Jeff Dorta at Project Publicity, America’s leading GLBT public relations firm.

facebook.com/outonthetown

Table of Contents:

Editor’s Note: Hey, y’all! We had a lot of fun at Pensacola Memorial Day and our writers had fun at various prides, such as the Birmingham and Conway Prides. My photo is of me having fun over the Memorial Day weekend! This month we crammed as many stories as we could into our fun July issue. We got such a great response from advertisers about our May “nightlife” issue that we put one together this month too. You’ll find profiles of five clubs in our area and hopefully you’ll like what you see in our magazine and want to go see them in person! We had fun this month interviewing Marcellas Reynolds, a Big Brother alum and celebrity stylist, and also Nancy Lee Grahn, who was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for her role as Alexis on General Hospital. But our big interview, with Nicole Paige Brooks, was super-fun and we were glad she had the time to talk to us! We are just two issues away from our first anniversary issue...have a suggestion regarding an interview subject for this special issue? Tell us about it on facebook! Respectfully Yours, Mike Halterman Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Tori Mattison’s Lowdown ....................................................................................... 6-7 How Sapphire Sees It ........................................................................................... 9 The View from Here: India .................................................................................... 12 Cover Story: Nicole Paige Brooks ........................................................................... 14-15 Lance Bass: Part 2 (Interview Continued from June) .................................................. 18 On TV: Marcellas Reynolds / Nancy Lee Grahn ........................................................ 20-21 In the Studio: Grace / LaLa .................................................................................. 22-23 Stories in Brief / Batesville Editorial ...................................................................... 24-26 Nightlife Issue II Bottoms Up, Jackson, MS ..................................................................................... 27 Tribe/Play, Nashville, TN ..................................................................................... 28-29 700 Club, New Orleans, LA .................................................................................. 30 Uniques, Alexandria, LA ....................................................................................... 31 Bars and Clubs Listings ........................................................................................ 32-35 OUT ON THE TOWN MAGAZINE is published by OUT ON THE TOWN PUBLISHING, LLC Copyright 2011 Out on the Town Publishing, LLC

Opinions expressed in the pages of Out on the Town Magazine are not necessarily those held by the owners of Out on the Town Publishing, LLC. or its staff. Publication of the name or photograph of any living person or organization in articles or advertising in Out on the Town Magazine shall not be construed or implication made as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organizations. All copy, text, display, photos and illustrations in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures and testimonials of any living person, and Out on the Town Magazine may lawfully publish said ads. The advertiser automatically agrees by submitting said ad to indemnify and hold harmless Out on the Town Publishing, LLC from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature out of such publication. The deadline for the monthly release of Out on the Town Magazine is the third Friday of the month at 11 a.m. Central Time for advertising submitted from an outside graphics firm and the third Monday of the month for new advertising made and designed in-house by Out on the Town Magazine (extra fees apply). In the event that an ad is accepted after deadline, the advertiser agrees by submitting such an ad to indemnify and hold harmless Out on the Town Publishing, LLC from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature that may arise from any error that may be made in said ad. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or in whole of this publication without written permission is prohibited.

4 | OUT ON THE TOWN | THE DEEP SOUTH’S HOTTEST GLBT MAGAZINE



¥ Tori Mattison’s

LOWDOWN We need to talk, honey! I want to address an epidemic that is growing out of control in the drag community and must be cured immedately. I’m talking about booger newcomer drag queens with grand attitudes! Girl, if you’ve been doing drag for less than a year, you have no clue what you’re doing and you need to get over yourself. If you only get cast for talent shows and can’t get a paid booking... you’re a booger, sad but true. Take note: a primadonna attitude isn’t even cute on a seasoned queen with many years of experience, so what makes you think that you should throw shade when you don’t even know how to

blend your makeup? No ma’am! This is a serious problem, but rest assured that I am here to help you get from drab to Drag in no time! I’ve interviewed several drag queens from all over the region who are sick and tired of ig’nant bitches who ain’t got a clue, and are eager to help a queen out. Tierra Stone hails from Huntsville, Alabama and has been entertaining for a whopping 21 years! This is a queen who knows one or two things about the business, yet still remains humble and eager to give advice: “Watch, look and listen to the seasoned girls! Be

yourself, stay humble and NEVER act like you know it all, because we never quit learning!” Dynasty Iman Magiq has four years experience onstage and works alongside Tierra at Vieux Carre. Dynasty feels that too many queens rely on other people to guide them every step of the way: “You need to learn as much as you can so that you won’t have to worry about anyone holding your hand all the way through. You’ll feel more accomplished that way.” Vieux Carre is a huge bar with 25’ ceilings and a lounge area seperated from the dance floor and show bar. You’ll find a mixed crowd with everyone from bears to twinks, and a crowd of 150-200 on a regular show night. Tierra and Dynasty are two of five girls on cast. Catch them both on Friday and Saturday nights at 10:30pm. Head south to Dothan, Alabama and hang out at the Dothan Dance Club with Ambrosia Starling and Jade Foxx, two fabulous queens who each have over 12 years of experience on stage. Dothan Dance Club has a capacity for 175, with an outdoor deck for lounging and relaxing and caters to all walks of life-including the straight community. There is something dragrelated going on ThursdaySunday with two shows per night, talent night, and early shows to cater to the working crowd. Jade and Ambrosia can be seen every night, with special guests alternating each weekend. Now, let’s get down to the nitty gritty.

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Tierra Stone

Dominique Sanchez

Jade Foxx

Dynasty Iman Magiq

¥ What advice would you give to a newcomer bitc--I mean, queen? Ambrosia gave a fantastic tip, “Pretty lasts for about 30 seconds and your song is at least 4 minutes long, So be sure you have something ELSE to give them before you go out into the spotlight!” Jade states, “Keep yourself humble and open to ideas. Dont step into a club thinking your hot stuff when your just NEW stuff! Older queens will give you great advice, if you will only unplug your ears and listen! If you start performing and have a big head... rest assured the older queens will pop it for you and guide you on the path of greatness.” Dominique Sanchez relinquished her title to Miss Gay USofA 2010 in May, and hails from Little Rock, Arkansas. I had the honor of working alongside Dominique earlier in the year, and I was completely floored at her outstanding demeanor and professional attitude all weekend. She can be seen every Friday night at Club Triniti- which brings in a crowd of over 400and every Saturday night at Discovery- which packs

in an unbelievable 1200+ partiers! An interesting fact about Discovery is that the crowd is primarily straight. The bars have a cast of 10 girls that rotate regularly, as well as out of town guests often. Dominique’s favorite aspect of both bars is the staff because everyone gets along so well.When asked what advice she would give to a newcomer queen, she states, “Make sure this is an artform that you really want to participate in. Make sure you’re doing it for the love of performing and not just to gain popularity. Also, don’t make a career out of borrowing other queens’ clothing wigs and makeup!” And of course you’ll find me all over the region, but my home is in Jackson, Mississippi. I have some news: it looks like Dick & Jane’s has opened their doors yet again to offer another environment for the gay and lesbian community! Meanwhile, I saw one of the biggest crowds at Bottoms Up on the same weekend. I was booked for a show on the 18th and could barely even move on the dance

floor. If there is a capacity at Bottoms Up, the cabaret room had passed it because I couldn’t even leave the stage for the crowd. Ray has done a phenomenal job decorating and constantly improving the bar - and has some BIG names lined up to entertain throughout the rest of the year. I’ve been asked not to reveal any names yet, but one diva has four top-selling albums under her belt and is one of my top idols!

It seems to me that the more I travel, the more I run into to shadyass drag queens who look like they’ve been rode hard and put up wet. It’s incredibly frustrating and offensive to the entertainers who actually take what they do seriously. The really sad part about the whole situation is that typically, the booger drag queens aren’t even aware that they look like hell, and won’t take a single hint or tip. Honey, even queens who have been in the biz for 30 years take advice and learn from other queens. You never know everything, so shut up, drop the attitude and FIX YOUR FACE! JULY 2011 | 7



¥

How Sapphire Sees It

“SAPPHIRE HOW

SEES

Dear Sapphire-

Thanks, “Battle of the Blondes”

As for Lady Gaga, I haven’t listened to her entire album yet so I can’t say which one is better. I absolutely LOVE her talent and creativity and her goal was to not only change her look, but her sound. Judging from what I’ve heard so far, I think she’s accomplished this. All her songs are very different and unique and I think “Born This Way” will crank out alot of major hits!!!

Dear “Battle of the Blondes”,

Dear Sapphire-

Like many others, I practically grew up on Britney so I will always have a lot of love and respect for her. She could fart and I would probably dance a little diddy to it. LOL. But honestly, “Femme Fatale” pleasantly surprised me and its one of those albums that you can actually listen to from beginning to end without skipping any tracks.

All this “Rapture” talk kinda ruined my weekend a while back. I found it to be a bit crazy. What was going on with you during all the madness?

I’ve actually seen a few of your shows where u performed to both Britney and Lady Gaga. As a performer, I know that its important for you to keep up with music trends. I was curious as to what you thought of their new albums and if you liked one better than the other.

Sincerely, “Rapture?....Ridiculous.”

IT

Dear “Rapture?... Ridiculous.”, I didnt even know what everyone was talking about until 3 or 4 days before it was “supposed to happen!” I was raised Southern Baptist (I know, right?!...over it!) and I was always taught that nobody will know when or where so I honestly wasn’t worried about it at all. My friend who told me about it lives in Atlanta and she said that everybody was in a panic and there were billboards everywhere. However, people’s additudes about it were a little more mellow here on the beach. I pretty much did what I always do on a normal Saturday. I ate a cute lunch, ran some last minute errands for my show, painted a mug and threw back some cocktoozles!!! Pay no attention to the nonsense. Be true to yourself and live life!!! ...and THAT’S how Sapphire sees it! JULY 2011 | 9



JULY 2011 | 11


THE VIEW FROM HERE: INDIA

THE VIEW FROM HERE: INDIA By Jerry Johnson On July 2, 2009, the Delhi High Court issued a landmark ruling upholding the rights of consenting adults and decriminalizing homosexuality, registering a major setback to the government’s cause “public interest.” The ruling finally elevates us to an equal playing field with our heterosexual counterparts. The real and arguably more difficult battle is what lies ahead of us now, and ironically, this is a battle to achieve oblivion for the homosexual cause. It is much easier to overturn a law at the stroke of a pen than it is to change the dominant philosophy of a culture―especially one that is steeped in a collectivistic tradition of obligations and duties towards one-another and the family. The ignorance and phobia that shroud the issue of sexuality are not exclusive to heterosexuals; indeed, a significant number of homosexuals in India suffer from debilitating levels of self-loathing, guilt, fear, ignorance, and homophobia. The more intelligent ones try to rationalize their guilt or homophobia by claiming that it is terribly “selfish” to want to live openly as homosexuals. They argue that men―espe-

cially―have duties towards their families and society that must be fulfilled, such as producing an (male) offspring, furthering the family name, bringing home a wife who can help with household chores, and taking care of aged parents. To chase wanton desires of the flesh (which is what being gay means to them) is a selfish abandonment of one’s duties. Thus, being in the homosexual closet is embraced as a brave, heroic, and highly virtuous act of self-sacrifice, altruism, and obedience for an Indian man. Their wives, in turn, are trapped in unhappy, oppressive marriages, are denied their dignity and personhood, and are left naked to the incursion of sexually-transmitted diseases as a result of their husbands’ furtive sexual encounters with other discreet homosexuals on the down-low. It is only a few and a relatively younger crop of Indian homosexuals who choose to come out publicly―these however are the exceptions to the norm. India offers little in terms of healthy ideas about sexuality and psychological maturity to its citizens, gay or straight. Hence, there is little recourse for gay men of both urban and rural areas to shrug off guilt, paranoia, and feelings

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of moral depravity. Since until recently homosexuality was a crime, there still pervades an environment of shame and fear in coming out. Indeed, it still is positively life-threatening in some parts of India to be an openly gay man. In only a few and fortunate cases, we see that a gay man has neither chosen to marry a woman or a creed or live and die in the closet; rather, he has chosen to live openly in enlightened selfacceptance and happiness. This small group of openly gay men is vocal and notable―and they are fueling the gay rights movement across the country. The changes that they have demanded for and won―at least in the political sphere―are commendable. But India is more than one nation with more than a billion people and more than that many cultural realities. To tame this giant elephant and direct her on a course of liberal enlightenment will take more than just political and argumentative skills; it will require a prolonged but steady revision of its most cherished and fundamental ideas about individual worth, liberty, personhood, rights, and sexuality. But at least the time to begin has finally come!


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COVER STORY

SHE’S

NICOLE PAIGE BROOKS FROM

ATLANTA, GEORGIA!

By Mike Halterman Nicole Paige Brooks has been a staple on the Atlanta drag scene for over 10 years, wellknown for her performances at the now-defunct legendary gay club Backstreet. Since then she has moved on to other clubs and performs at two currently. Having already gained acclaim here in the South, Nicole (real name Brian Christopher Pryor) got to show off her talents on a national level when she was picked for the cast of Season 2 of Logo’s RuPaul’s Drag Race. Although her road on the Race ended after the second episode, she managed to gain thousands more followers across the country, who follow her daily life via her facebook page (http://www.facebook. com/nicolepbrooks). Out on the Town got to talk to the “very Atlanta girl” about her career, Drag Race, and how she crossed paths with one of our columnists! Do you make a living out of your drag work? If so,

how long did it take you to get to that point, and is it something any seasoned drag queen in any city can achieve?

to do a lot of the benefit shows around town until I moved to Memphis, TN. In Memphis, I stopped doing drag until I moved to Atlanta in 1999.

Drag is my full time job and has been for about 10 years now. I think I am lucky to live in a city that has a drag show in almost every bar every night so if you work it right you can make a good living.

I had already been doing drag for a few years when I met Shawnna for the first time. When I started working at Backstreet in Atlanta, she took me under her wing and put what I like to call “the Brooks shine” on me. She cleaned up the things I needed to fix and told me to “calm down!” A LOT! Many of the doorways in my career were opened because of her, even though a few of them I notoriously closed right behind me. A year after we met, she asked me to add her last name and I became Nicole Paige Brooks. If it was not for her I think my life here would have been a lot different.

How did you get started doing drag, and how did you become famous in the scene in Atlanta? When I started preforming I was living in Oklahoma City and I was going to a club called Angles. They were doing an AIDS benefit called “Studs to Stars” for people who have never done drag before. Whoever raised the most money in tips that night was considered the “winner.” I finally agreed and said that I would do it, but “just this ONE time.” The night of the benefit, I won! After winning “Studs to Stars” I was asked

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What is most important for a drag queen to remember when she interacts with her fans and deals with a crowd, and what do queens tend to forget that gets on your


nerves? Without a audience there is no reason for a show. I have always tried to say hello and take pics with everyone. I am very grateful for anyone who likes what I do. I think it is crazy not to do whatever we can to make our fans feel special. I know they make me feel special. There are times when you just can’t stop and do that but some girls can’t even be bothered to smile. I just don’t get that. You know our drag columnist Tori Mattison. How did you meet her when she was starting out in Atlanta? I met Tori before there was a Tori. Her boyfriend at the time was my drag daughter’s roommate.They came to a lot of shows and I think that was where she got the bug. She was always nice to be around. It is no surprise to me that she is doing so well. How did you life change when your son was born, and how did it impact your drag career? On Drag Race you said it hasn’t “meshed” for him yet that daddy is “Nicole”; does he know now?

competition (Mariah in Season 3 lasted the longest but only to the fifth episode). Why do you think the Atlanta queens haven’t gone as far as we think they should?

Raven’s comments about you behind the scenes. Do you two have a friendly relationship now?

I was disappointed I didn’t win. I wanted to, so no one was more disappointed than me. I’m not sure why an Atlanta girl has not won yet. Only Ru knows that.

You can’t be friends with everyone, but I can work with anyone. Some of the girls I’m closer to than others; some are like sisters, some are like co-workers. Raven would be a co-worker.

How difficult was it to compete in Drag Race? If a queen would like to be on the show, what do you think is essential for them to know? It was not difficult as much as it was strange. Not getting enough sleep, not eating right, not being able to speak to your family. All of that was very strange. Just remember it’s about making good TV, so go for it. Just remember if you say it, they can play it. On the Reunion show there was tension between you and Raven, stemming from

I don’t know Raven. We have seen each other. We are fine.

You’re all over the place in Atlanta; are you going to do shows in our area anytime soon? I’m at Blake’s every Thursday and LeBuzz every Friday and Saturday here in Atlanta. I do travel some, not too much because of Lukas. I will be in Nashville, TN at Play on Sept. 2 and 3. I would love to come down your way. Anyone wanting to book me can go to http://www.nicolepbrooks. com/ You can find all things Nicole there.

When Lukas came into my life the one thing that changed is that I didn’t want to travel as much. He knows what I do for work. He sees me get ready, he goes to rehearsals with me. He sees me make costumes, so he knows what I do. I’m not sure he knows that people call me Nicole. He has never called me that. Speaking of Drag Race, many people were disappointed that you didn’t go as far as people had hoped. In fact, all the Atlanta queens have run into roadblocks into the JULY 2011 | 15


UPCOMING EVENTS!

Miss Uniques Pageant 2011 - July 2nd Chanel Madison, Miss Uniques 2010 will be handing over the crown to one of the multitalented contestants who will be vying for the title of Miss Uniques 2011.

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[ The Lance Bass Interview: ] Part 2

By Erika Gilliam-Long

Last month we interviewed Lance Bass about the Tuscaloosa tornado devastation. This month we conclude the interview, this time asking him about the current state of his life and career. Any new projects you are working on?

Well I’ve been writing and producing for several years, and I have a lot of great new shows coming up. I’ve been focusing mainly on this new company that I am the CEO of called famousyardsales.com. It’s really fun because it takes all physical yard sales and puts them online. The great thing is that each celebrity is going to have a yard sale for charities. We hope to raise billions of dollars for different charities. I’ve also got this new XM radio show that will be on Out-Q. It’s basically a, fun two hour pop culture show, with a top ten countdown. We’re just gonna set up our microphones where we are and have fun.

I know you get this question often, but is there any chance for a *NSync reunion? Oh no. As long as Justin is making hit movies right now, I don’t think so. We do get together as a group because we are like brothers, we always stay in touch.

How did you get involved with Second Chance Prom? Right after the issue with Constance, we started rolling cameras and filming a documentary. I attended the Second Chance prom as well. Our documentary is about how these GLBT young students in Mississippi are working so hard to make a difference for their community. We are following some amazing story lines and seeing so many things change. Any words of advice for youth or young adults in the South still dealing with bullying or gay issues?

their call centers. Any more TV or film appearances? I don’t have any that are planned. I had a blast doing Drop Dead Diva and it is so funny. I’d be fine staying behind the camera for the rest of my life. I want to start a family soon. I’ve been dating a little after taking a break, just nothing serious. How have things changed in Hollywood since you came out? It’s been really great. The entertainment community supports you and even the straight community supports you. Our community seems to be one of the most self-hating. We have to learn to support each other.

You can’t listen to it. You must be the bigger person. Find that family member, friend, or trusted person to be able to talk to. What they are experiencing right now is such a small part of their life. They are going to move on and do bigger things and those people who were negative will not even be a part of their life. What charities do you support or help out with? I try to support any that have to deal with children because they are so innocent and we have to protect them. I also work with The Trevor Project as much as I can. I do events for them and also have toured

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JULY 2011 | 19


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On TV

ON TV WITH MARCELLAS REYNOLDS By Mike Halterman For celebrity stylist Marcellas Reynolds, the fame coming from the reality show “Big Brother” has been a harsh mistress in that the curiosity is never-ending. “It’s been 10 seasons since I did Big Brother the first time. Can’t we talk about something else?” he said to us toward the end of our interview. He said while he’s thankful for the doors it opened for him for his career, he wants to eventually prove that he’s redefined what an “ex-reality star” is.

¥ Instead of the ghost of Big Brother haunting him to his grave, he’d rather have this as his epitaph: “Here lies Marcellas. He’s probably in a really good outfit. Most likely smiling. He was happiest on a white sweep or a TV set. He was a good friend, a better son and one heck of a nice guy.” He opens up to us about his current TV and public appearances, what’s key to having “good style” and yes, a few things about “Big Brother.” You can be seen on “How Do I Look” on the Style Network; what other appearances do you have lined up so people will know where to seek you out?

People can always find out what I am up to at MarcellasReynolds. com. I have a few things lined up. We start shooting Style Network’s Style Star season 2 this summer. I’m also a Style Ambassador for

Macy’s now so I’ll be traveling around to Macy’s all over the U.S. hosting events and parties. When it comes down to helping a person find a style that works for them, what do you zone in on? What kinds of decisions can one make that will make them more stylish that are perennial and work for everyone? As a stylist I look at two things: the client’s body type and what they do for a living. You must work with someone’s body type to make them look their absolute best. Fit is so important. Then you need to know what they need sartorially and why. Most people work for a living and want to look great while doing it. And even if you are going to the Emmys or Oscars as a star or dinner with the husband, that is still work. You’ve participated in the Big Brother game twice. Could you ever do it again? I would maybe do All-Stars again. I had a horrible time both times but it’s so in my blood now. What was the most difficult part about being in the house?

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The only bad thing about the game is there is always someone in the house you hate or don’t get and their behavior always drives you mad! Hour after hour. Day after day. It’s grating being around people you may not like. Some critics complain that in more recent seasons, the gay contestants featured on Big Brother have not been a “good representation” of the GLBT community. Do you agree or disagree? If anyone has ever said “good representation” of the GL community then they are showing their own internal homophobia. No one person can be nor should be an exemplar for any one group. We (humans) are too vast for that. People in general must stop thinking of one another as one monolithic group. Each house guest is repping only themselves when they do BB. They aren’t splitting their winnings with every African American or firefighter or septuagenarian, are they? So why are the gays thought of as one group? It’s a ridiculous and passe assertion.


¥

On TV

GLBT activism? I hate injustice... and stupidity.

¥

ON TV WITH NANCY LEE GRAHN By James Hare Actress Nancy Lee Grahn has been beloved by fans in the soap world for over 25 years, first by playing Julia Capwell on the ‘80s NBC soap Santa Barbara, and now for the last 15 years playing Alexis Davis on the ABC soap General Hospital, which earned her a Daytime Emmy nomination this year. She is also an outspoken rights advocate, championing causes such as the accurate portrayal of disabilities in television, women’s reproductive rights, and GLBT rights. Out on the Town talked to Grahn about her life, career, activism, and the power of social networking (she often tweets to her fans; you can follow her at twitter.com/ NancyLeeGrahn). Can you tell us what was submitted on your Daytime Emmy nomination reel this year? I had very little to choose from. In fact I would’ve have submitted in the guest star category if they had one. I submitted a show with one very good scene. Unfortunately the rest was mediocre. The head

As someone who has made appearances in 7th Heaven— considering the show’s Christian themes and its tendency to take on ‘very special’ topics—do you feel it did enough to discuss social issues? What about in the other shows you have starred in, such as General Hospital?

writer at the time didn’t appear to enjoy writing Alexis and I admit I had trouble interpreting the material I was given. Fortunately for many of us, there is a new Head Writer, Garin Wolf. Garin loves this genre and everyone who plays a part in it, most importantly our audience. I have great faith in him and expect that all of us will have lots to choose from for our Emmy reels next year.

I notice you grew up and went to school in Illinois. What was the prevalent attitude towards homosexuality, and how did it develop as you grew older and went to college? I don’t recall anyone coming out in Skokie anywhere than at my house. My dad was unlike the other dads. He changed diapers, did housework, was always available for us. He also had no judgment and accepted, loved and hugged everyone. Kids in the neighborhood came over for that and some to tell my dad that they were gay so he could tell them it was just fine and then hug them.

I loved doing 7th Heaven, ‘cause I like to work. However I was pregnant at the time and single. They made me put on a wedding ring...I had to hold back some attitude. I think people behind GH are liberal thinkers, so I have no idea why there isn’t your everyday average gay couple on the show. There should be, but hey, there are no Jews either. Head-scratcher huh? I see you’re very active on Twitter, even interacting with otherusers. When do you feel like your use of Twitter has made a real difference?

I think it is a very useful tool to get informed or inform others. I am a grassroots kinda gal, a power to the people thinker. Twitter allows everyone a voice. Up until social networking, only the ones in power had control over what gets out there. No good can come from that, right? What do you recommend for those who want to be involved in activism? Just do it!

What made you interested in

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IN THE STUDIO

AMAZING GRACE DANCEFLOOR’S NEWEST DIVA TAKES THE MICROPHONE By Max Jiminez Grace is bringing a fresh-faced passion to pop music. As the newest discovery of American Idol’s Randy Jackson, she is using the club stage to express her own deep-seated thoughts and opinions insisting to top brass, “I will only sing what is dear to my heart.”

Coming from Russia, were you aware of Randy Jackson’s prominence in American music? Yes, of course! I watch it all the time! American Idol should be called International Idol because people from all over the world love it. It airs in Russia with the voices dubbed in Russian.

Even though I grew up in Russia, speaking Russian, American pop music has always been my passion. I would sing to Michael Jackson, not knowing the meaning of his words. At four years old, I couldn’t take it anymore and I asked my parents to hire an English teacher so I could understand what I was singing. Are you as bold as your singles suggest?

One thing dear to her heart is inspiring gay fans to embrace their voice and make themselves heard. The Moscow-born artist aims to empower gay youth to not only love who they are but make others love them too. According to Grace, it’s not enough to speak your pride, we need to shout it out! And if you need a microphone, she’ll lend you hers.

How are you different from other pop artists today?

How did you come to the attention of Randy Jackson?

Do you mind comparisons to Britney or Kylie?

What do you hope fans will take away from “When the Lights Go Down”?

I flew to Los Angeles to meet with producers who introduced me to Randy Jackson. He listened to me singing and signed me to his record label.

No way! I’m a huge fan of both. They are talented, beautiful women. If I achieve anything even close to the success they have found, I’ll be absolutely thrilled.

The main message is that you shouldn’t be afraid to be yourself. Show others what you want and what you need, and express yourself. We all have the power.

What’s something your fans would be surprised to know about you?

For more information, visit http://www.graceofficial.com.

It was that easy? I was really lucky!

I have my own things to say and my own outlook on the world. I’m all about knowing yourself; loving yourself, understanding your needs and getting them met. My message is about empowerment and ownership: in love, sex, finances, emotionally and spiritually.

Most days, I’m the girl next door. I like pop music, clothes, food and flirting just like any other girl my age. When I’m onstage, though, I give it everything I’ve got. I turn into a rockstar. I’m bold, fierce and ready to take the spotlight. But underneath, I’m still the girl that likes to go shopping and eat sweets. Can’t I have it all?

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¥

IN THE STUDIO some East Indian influences. My parents and their parents were born in India. I’m my own United Nations. Has being Asian hurt your career?

LA LA POP! By Will Baker

She’s been accused of living in LaLa land. You probably have to be a bit cuckoo to try to break in to today’s pop music world. Today’s artists are judged on an entirely different standard that extends beyond the merits of their vocal ability. There’s a greater creative expectation requiring stars to be luminous. To shine so brightly, a performer not only has to be a skilled music maker, but a multifaceted and interesting personality with a genuine penchant for connecting with their audience. The dancefloor’s newest songstress, LALA, is all that and more. Her collaboration with the remix production duo Maniacalm on the single “Never Forget You” yielded LALA her first Billboard hit. It was a winning combination, so why not do it again? The threesome unite again with the sonically stirring “I Miss You” (co-written by LALA). You seem to embody several different personalities in your music. More than several past relationship partners have accused me of being bi-polar.

How so? I can be the Asian sweet “love you long time” submissive girl. I can be the warm, gushy type. I can be superficial, sexy, playful, and I can be the bold, rash, take-no-bullshit-from-anyone fierce chick too. Where did you get the name LaLa? It’s been my nickname since birth. My brother called me it when I was young and is somehow caught on with rest of my family caught on. Do you hope to be some kind of Asian pioneer in music? Hell yeah. It’s ridiculous that no Asian solo music artist has ever broke big in America. There are tons of Italians, Latinos, black, and, of course, white artists in the music world, but no Asians. I don’t understand why. Where is our Asian invasion? Is racism to blame? Racism is everywhere, even among Asians. Native born Asians dislike westernized Asians. I am Chinese but I also embody

It’s been challenging, for sure. I began my career singing and writing R&B music. It was tough because R&B and hip hop are dense with history and unfortunately for me, Asians aren’t a part of that history. No matter how good I was at singing R&B, and I was good, I didn’t feel like I could ever fit in. No one was listening or cheering me on. Is that why you switched to dance? When I turned to dance music, things changed. The gay scene embraced me. All of a sudden, doors started opening and more opportunities presented themselves to me. I felt accepted, comfortable, at home. I had an audience, and for the first time I started to realize possibility. I began to think that maybe from here, others might start to accept me and give me a chance. Were you ever the Asian stereotype? Hell no. I failed first grade! What Asian kid fails first grade? How do your parents feel about your music? My parents and family don’t really understand. They don’t know what happened to me, or why they never had the good girl Asian daughter. However, deep, deep, deep down somewhere in them, they are secretly rooting for me. Visit LaLa at http://www. lalathemusicartist.com

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IN BRIEF

The Wedding Post of Arkansas Faces Discrimination Allegations By Mike Halterman One of Out on the Town’s readers alerted the Facebook group “Wipeout Homophobia on Facebook” to discriminatory practices alleged to have been practiced by the website The Wedding Post of Arkansas, which bills itself as “showcasing the best of the best of Arkansas’ weddings.” GetEQUAL Arkansas state lead Laura Phillips, of West Fork, first brought the discrimination allegation to Facebook in early June. She said a friend of hers

¥¥ and her fiancee submitted an engagement announcement to the Wedding Post website, only to be turned away due to their policy to only print announcements for legal unions, and that they were wished luck “regardless of their lifestyle decisions.” While activists from the “Wipeout Homophobia” page immediately expressed their disapproval on the Wedding Post facebook page, Phillips contacted the site’s vendors and let them know of the site moderators’ decision. Phillips tells Out on the Town that she received great feedback and has now started a list of GLBTfriendly wedding vendors in Arkansas, something that had not been created on a statewide level before.

For our part, when Out on the Town tried to verify the story via the Wedding Post facebook page, our magazine profile was promptly banned and our letter deleted.

Arkansas’ Only GLBT Youth Center Opens Its Doors By Mike Halterman The Center for Artistic Revolution, the largest GLBT and allied advocacy organization in Arkansas, celebrates the grand opening of Arkansas’ only GLBT youth center, the Lucille Marie Hamilton Youth Center, on July 1. The center will give a permanent home to the DYSC (Diverse Youth for Social Change) group, and a place for GLBT and allied youth

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¥¥¥¥¥ to make friends, play games, hang out and hold their weekly meetings. The center will be located in the same building as the Center for Artistic Revolution offices, at the First Presbyterian Church on 800 Scott St. in Little Rock. Center for Artistic Revolution members, including Center director Randi Romo and DYSC coordinator Jeana Huie will be on hand with Karen Thompson, Lucille Hamilton’s mother, to cut the ribbon at the grand opening. Hamilton, one of the founding members of the DYSC group, died unexpctedly in July 2009 and the center is dedicated in her honor. For more information on DYSC, call (501) 244-9690.

‘Men of Pensacola’ Calendar Sales Top $30,000 By Erika Gilliam-Long The Men of Pensacola Calendar has gotten off to an amazing start! The calendar was produced by Christopher Peterson and photographer Jesus Nieves. Since the calendar started selling on May 1st in places such as Emerald City, The Roundup, The Cabaret, and the Equality House, it has raised over $30,000. It is an 18 month calendar and there are already plans for a female version soon! A large portion of the proceeds have been donated to various groups in the area and along the Gulf Coast. Gay Grassroots NWFL has been one of the places

receiving donations as they provide much help to the gay community. They plan to continue to help out other groups as well along the Gulf Coast and to help show that even though Pensacola is somewhat conservative, it is a very gay friendly city. You can purchase your copy at the above listed places or at druechristopherproductions.com. Here you can also read the bios for the guys and follow them on facebook at Facebook.com/ TheMenOfPensacola Make sure to get your copy today to support GLBT and for my gay guys -check these guys out! It makes for a great gift!

JULY 2011 | 25


¥

THE BATESVILLE DAILY GUARD IS NOT SORRY. THEY SHOULD BE.

An Editorial by Mike Halterman A deeply disappointing and distressing situation occurred in Arkansas as we were preparing to take the magazine to press. The Batesville Daily Guard has seen fit to degrade and humiliate a person not once -- but twice. In this gay man’s opinion, I find it reprehensible and sickening. On June 11, John Millican died, a difficult decision for his partner, Terrance James. James was the only one to visit Millican in the hospital and he was the one left with the decision to pull the plug on his life support. With the help of a local funeral home, he submitted an obituary for his partner and listed himself in it, as they had been in a relationship for 10 years at the time of Millican’s death. When the obituary was printed in the Batesville Daily Guard, James received a call from his mother, asking him if he had seen it. To the surprise of both, James was completely omitted. Not knowing where to turn, James sent his story to the Center for Artistic Revolution (CAR), the leading GLBT rights organization in the state

of Arkansas. CAR’s call for action gained the attention of blog site Queerty, which gave the issue national recognition. From there, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) got involved, and in my opinion, hijacked the situation to gain accolades. They managed to get an apology and a pledge to correctly re-run Millican’s obituary, quick to announce their “triumph” and relegating CAR and Queerty to mere footnotes in the process. Before GLAAD could sprain their elbows from patting themselves on the back, the Batesville Daily Guard had an abrupt “change of heart,” writing an editorial which labeled James as a liar with an agenda (the word agenda was put in scare quotes and bolded in the newspaper), and ending the scathing character assassination with “The Guard does not owe Mr. James a free obituary or an apology.” Oh, really? Because I think you do. Not just for the original omission, which the Guard claimed was against its policies but shouldn’t have been policy in the first place (who is the

Guard to tell anyone who they can and can’t love, and that their love doesn’t matter if it’s not in a church-sanctioned marriage?), but also for the editorial, which I can only describe as kicking someone while they’re down. Mr. James was literally down; he learned of the Guard’s editorial trashing him while he was in the hospital. According to Randi Romo of CAR, he was ill with Rocky Mountain spotted fever and was in danger of contracting spinal meningitis. In the process, the Guard’s public relations woes worsened. Wasting newsprint to demean a man who is ill in the hospital over a nonsensical policy that should be updated for the 21st century we’re living in? They ensured that this will not go away, and will probably earn even more national headlines. The Guard could have easily changed their policy and re-run the obituary. But no. They wanted to stand by their misguided “principles” on the matter. The paper, for their part, say they aren’t discriminating, but their scarlet editorial blew that out of the water. They’re betting the house on discrimination and sticking to their guns. All of us in the GLBT community will be sticking to our guns too. I think we’ll win this fight at the O.K. Corral.


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BAR PROFILE

Bottoms Up Offers Unique “Big City” Atmosphere By Mackenzie Azrael There is a hot new club that has clubgoers in Jackson, Mississippi talking! Bottoms Up originally opened in October of last year and Ray Pados along with his partner of 18 years, Joey Tat, bought the club in January. Ray says that what makes Bottoms Up unique is that they cater to everyone. “If you want to watch a show you can, or you can go to the bar, or dance on the dance floor.” Being from San Francisco, Ray uses clubs in larger cities as his inspiration. “We are not trying to model ourselves after smaller clubs that have been in the area.” So far it seems they are succeeding. Changes under the new management have been astounding and impressive. Recently clubgoers have been treated to foam parties which were a huge successes and Bottoms Up is not stopping there. A Neon Party was held during late June sponsored by Smirnoff and in August a Toga Party will be sponsored by

Mike’s Hard Lemonade. If you haven’t visited the club, you are sure to be impressed in the cabaret room where a new runway has been constructed in a cozy atmosphere. Tables line each side of the stage with comfortable couches to the side. European Intelligent lighting will soon be installed that will offer Entertainers the ability to be highlighted in different colors and dramatic effects. The sound equipment is also being updated on a regular basis. If you are a regular patron of the club you will soon be able to purchase VIP Club Memberships! Ray said, “We have Boy & Girl Next Door Contests, many of our winners are under 21, and cannot receive a bar tab. Offering a VIP Membership to winners will allow them a one month VIP pass with free admission for the month.” This will also be available for regular patrons to purchase during the middle of the summer and is sure to be a huge hit. Bottoms Up also takes a lot of pride in the community. Recently they partnered with

the ACLU, Safe Harbor, Mississippi Health Department, and about 10 other gay organizations and groups to promote awareness, and offer mobile testing for HIV. Plans are also underway for a Street Pride event for late summer and they hope to include these organizations once again. Bottoms Up is open on Friday and Saturday nights from 9pm until whenever. They offer Karaoke on both nights before show time; anyone interested in belting out your favorite tunes should speak to a bartender. Show Time on Friday night starts at 12:30am and is hosted by the legendary Tanisha Foxx. On Saturday Night shows are hosted by Jackson’s Blonde Bombshell Mia Chambers, show time starts at midnight. The club also offers a constant change to what some clubgoers called, “The finest entertainers in the South!” Bottoms Up is located at 3911 Northview Drive in Jackson, Mississippi. Cover charge is $7.00 for 21+ and $10.00 for 18-20. JULY 2011 | 27


¥

Two Nashville Bars: Tribe and Play By Berneta Haynes

“When we opened Tribe, Nashville did not have a bar to which you could proudly take friends, co-workers, or even family. The clubs at that time, in 2002, were really run down and smoky,” said Keith Blaydes, when asked about Tribe, a music video bar in midtown Nashville. Blaydes owns Tribe and Play, two of Nashville’s most well known gay bars right next door to one another in the heart of the city’s gay district. Each bar has a culture of its own and each one special in its own right. Tribe, located at 1517 Church Street, offers a hip vibe and comfortable atmosphere. Blaydes describes it as a “gay Cheers.” “We used to say that Tribe was ‘nice enough to bring your Mama, but you probably never would,’ but then people DID bring their parents to show off this really nice club that was built for THEM - folks were so hungry for a place they were proud of,” Blaydes stated. Blaydes did not shy away from mentioning some of the bar’s accolades and fame. The Tennes-

sean has named Tribe the Best Gay Bar in Nashville every year that it has been open and also called it “Nashville’s first mainstream gay bar.” Tribe, additionally, contains a restaurant: Suzy Wong’s - House of Yum. The executive chef is Arnold Myint, a contestant from last season’s Top Chef D.C. With delicious food and Top 40 videos playing during the night, Tribe is the perfect place to unwind and get your grub on. If you have your dancing shoes on, however, and are looking for a high energy dance bar, you might want to check out Play, the bar right next door. “Nashville needed a mid-sized dance club that was an active participant in gay life in the city,” Blaydes noted. Play fits the bill. Play generally draws a younger crowd, but people of all ages frequent the bar as well, probably to check out its famous female impersonation cast. “Play has one of the best female impersonation casts in the country. Our regular cast of Dee Ranged, Deception, Nicole Ellington Dupree, and Sara Andrews are some of the most talented and professional female imperson-

28 | OUT ON THE TOWN | THE DEEP SOUTH’S HOTTEST GLBT MAGAZINE

ation performers anywhere,” said Blaydes when asked about what sets Play apart from other Nashville bars. The bar regularly brings in guests “from national pageant winners to contestants on Rupaul’s Drag Race.” In addition to Play’s famous drag shows, the bar’s DJs incorporate beat-mixed videos into their music on the dance floor. According to Blaydes, “This provides a visual element to the dance experience that you don’t find in very many places.” It’s probably this unique element and the amazing female impersonation shows that draw celebrities and television personalities to Play. “You never know who you might see on any given night: country music stars, radio and TV personalities,” said Blaydes. Blaydes and the owners invested their life savings into opening Tribe and Play and have encountered nothing but success thanks to great employees and customers. “We believe that an important part of success is helping your community succeed, so we are


BAR PROFILE very active members of the GLBT community,” Blaydes added. Blaydes regularly hosts group events and fundraisers in the bars, to help support the community. “HRC, Nashville CARES, Nashville Pride, Tennessee Equality Project, Nashville GLBT Chamber, Nashville Grizzlies Rugby team, the Conductors, the Smoky Mountain Rodeo Association, Souls for Souls, and numerous sports tournaments and teams are some of the groups we’ve hosted and raised money for in the past year,” he noted. As Blaydes stated, these two bars filled a void in Nashville. So, if you’re in town and you’re looking for fun, shake it at Play or go chill out at Tribe!

JULY 2011 | 29


¥ the 700 Club By Andrew Stankevich The 700 Club opened its doors on April 25th, 2008. The bar resides on the north side of New Orleans’ gay-friendly French Quarter and two blocks off Bourbon Street. If the 700 Club’s name reminds anyone of Pat Robertson, Matthew Giglio, the owner, finds such an association an unusual coincidence. “We’re named after our address, 700 Burgundy Street, at the corner of Burgundy and St. Peter,” says Giglio. Matt put himself through college bartending and has been slinging drinks for over twenty years before he decided to open his own establishment. “I thought that the NOLA bar scene had a void that I’m trying to fill with the 700 Club.” Giglio explained that most of the gay bars on Bourbon Street were too loud, too bawdy, or just too much of a circus. “There wasn’t a chill, casual and upscale lounge that catered to local residents and not tourists.” Giglio envisioned a venue where people from the neighborhood could build a sense of community

and hang out with friends, like a queer version of Cheers. The 700 Club boasts about being the same, consistent club every night. Customers can play pool, sit at the bar or on one of the many plush chairs designed for people to converse and really get to know one another. The 700 Club has a varied clientele, but tends to attract a more professional and better educated crowd usually aged 25-45 and comprised of 95% local people. “We share our lives at the 700 Club and I get drunk on such characters; I’ve known most of my customers for years.” Matt told me that even if he won the lottery and didn’t need to work to support himself, he would still bartend, because he enjoys bartending that much. “New Orleans is a city with such unique lifestyles. A lot of people like living in New Orleans not necessarily because of the career opportunities, but because of the rich culture that encourages bold personalities.” Giglio recounted New

30 | OUT ON THE TOWN | THE DEEP SOUTH’S HOTTEST GLBT MAGAZINE

Orleans’ history of having a large openly gay population; Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams would be seen publicly with their partners when most gays in other southern cities stayed closeted. I pressed Mr. Giglio to tell me a story about a meaningful experience between him and his customers and Giglio recounted a recent night where American soldiers from Oklahoma drank the night away with their wives before shipping off to Afghanistan. The soldiers said their last goodbyes before going off to war, staying until 2am. During this emotional time, the Oklahoma enlisted men wondered if they would come back alive and expressed their preferences as to how they would want to die. Matthew Giglio really enjoyed bartending at the 700 Club that night in particular because his customers let him share in their lives. The 700 Club also serves up an array of upscale bar food. To see the menu, as well as more pictures, go to: www.700clubneworleans.com


BAR PROFILE “Red” or even “Green”).

Uniques Bar By Mike Halterman Uniques Bar in Alexandria, Louisiana has been a staple in the central Louisiana scene for over 20 years. In fact, this July 4th weekend will be the bar’s 21st anniversary, and Uniques’ show director Jaleesa Delafosse talks to Out on the Town and gives us the real T on the fun experience you’re sure to have at Uniques. Jaleesa is quick to point out the hottest part of the bar: the dance floor. “We have a three-tier light up dance floor,” she notes, in addition to a go-go dancer cage and a stripper pole...racy! “On a busy night, we get around 100 people, and on show nights or theme nights we get roughly 300 to 400 guests,”

she says. “The theme parties like the annual beach party, everyone wore their beach attire and we decorated for it, put out water guns, etc. It was just a big bash. For the “color” parties, everyone should be wearing the color in the party name.” “My day and night job is Uniques. I try to do all the promoting I can for the club, I get my shows together, bookings, etc. so it has been a full-time job for me,” Jaleesa says, noting that her involvement with Uniques started 15 years ago but has held her current jobs of show director and Friday night DJ only since last March. “I have my show the first Saturday of the month, and then another show for the third weekend of the month.” In addition, there is a talent night the second Friday of the month, followed the next night by a theme party (like “Beach” or “Heat Wave” or color themes like “White,”

What’s in a name? Jaleesa explains that owner Tim Bordelon had a statement in mind. “He named it that because we are unique,” she says. “We try to support every GLBT cause we have in Alexandria but it’s not much. Alexandria is small and small-minded. I think Uniques is a lot different than the big city clubs. We are down to earth, very warm and have a “family” atmosphere. We accept everyone and make them feel at home and a part of the “Uniques” family.” “I love Uniques. They have made me feel so welcome, and I have been to the bigger cities and other clubs in my surrounding area, and never have I felt so warm and welcomed and accepted than I have at Uniques,” she said. Uniques Bar is located on 3217 Industrial St. in Alexandria, Louisiana. If you want to call for more information or if you are a drag queen looking to book in central Louisiana, call (318) 448-0555 and ask for Jaleesa.

JULY 2011 | 31


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BARS & CLUBS

YELLOW PAGES

Florida:

Gabriel’s Downtown 55 S. Joachim St. Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 432-4900

Al’s on Seventh 2627 7th Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 321-2812

The Midtown Pub 153 S. Florida St. Mobile, AL 36606 (251) 471-5090

Our Place 2115 7th Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 715-0077

Bacchus 455 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 445-4099

Quest 416 24th St. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 251-4313

Club Imagination 4129 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 792-6579

The Bus Station 710 N. Boundary Blvd. Montevallo, AL 35115 (205) 665-5353

Dothan Dance Club 2563 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL 36301 (334) 792-5166

Partners Bar and Grill 631 Meridian St. N. Huntsville, AL 35801 (256) 539-0975

Alabama:

Club 322 322 N. Lawrence St. Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 263-4322

Vieux Carré 1204 Posey St. Huntsville, AL 35816 (256) 534-5970

B-Bob’s 213 Conti St. Mobile, AL 36602 (251) 433-2262

Icon 516 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 (205) 345-3820

The Cabaret 101 S. Jefferson St. Pensacola, FL 32502 (850) 607-2020 The Roundup 560 E. Heinberg St. Pensacola, FL 32502 (850) 433-8482 Emerald City 406 E. Wright St. Pensacola, FL 32501 (850) 433-9491 Fiesta Room La Royale Lounge 100 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 763-1755 Splash Bar Florida 6520 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 236-3450

NOTES: ______________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________

32 | OUT ON THE TOWN | THE DEEP SOUTH’S HOTTEST GLBT MAGAZINE


Mississippi: Just Us Lounge 906 Division St. Biloxi, MS 39530 (228) 374-1007 Club Veaux 834 Howard Ave. Biloxi, MS 39530 (228) 207-3271 Bottoms Up 3911 Northview Dr. Jackson, MS 39206 (601) 981-2188 JC’s 425 North Mart Plaza Jackson, MS 39206 (601) 362-3108 Metro Reloaded 4670 Highway 80 W. Jackson, MS 39209 (601) 259-0661

Arkansas: Discovery/Triniti 1021 Jessie Rd. Little Rock, AR 72202 (501) 664-4784 (501) 664-2744 Pulse 307 W. 7th St. Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 374-3552 610 Center 610 Center St. Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 374-4678

Sway 412 Louisiana St. Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 907-2582

35 1/2 N. Main St. Eureka Springs, AR 72632 (479) 253-7020

Sidetracks 415 Main St. North Little Rock, AR 72114 (501) 244-0444

Lumberyard Bar & Grill 105 E. Van Buren St. Eureka Springs, AR 72632 (479) 253-0400

Jester’s 1010 E. Grand Ave. Hot Springs, AR 71901 (501) 624-5455

Louisiana:

Club Kinkead’s 1004 1/2 Garrison Ave. Fort Smith, AR 72901 (479) 494-7477 The Chute 714 Laurel St. Texarkana, AR 71854 (870) 772-6900 Tangerine 21 N. Block Ave. Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 444-6100 Speakeasy 509 W. Spring St. Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 443-3279 Henri’s Just One More 19 1/2 Spring St. Eureka Springs, AR 72632 (479) 253-5795

Central Station 1025 Marshall St. Shreveport, LA 71101 (318) 222-2216 The Korner Lounge 800 Louisiana Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101 (318) 222-9796 Corner Bar 512 N. 3rd St. Monroe, LA 71201 (318) 329-0046 Club Pink 1914 Roselawn Ave. Monroe, LA 71201 (318) 654-7030 Olympus Bar 4003 MacArthur Dr. Alexandria, LA 71302 (318) 442-6735

Eureka Live JULY 2011 | 33


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BARS & CLUBS

YELLOW PAGES Drama Club/Act II Bourbon Pub & Parade

Uniques Bar 3217 Industrial St. Alexandria, LA 71301 (318) 448-0555

Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 433-5457 Jules Downtown 533 Jefferson St. Lafayette, LA 70501 (337) 264-8000 Tonic 2013 Pinhook Rd. Lafayette, LA 70501 (337) 269-6011 Cajun Cove 4550 Concord Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70808 (225) 246-8317 George’s Place 860 Saint Louis St. Baton Rouge, LA 70802 (225) 387-9798 Hound Dogs 668 Main St. Baton Rouge, LA 70801 (225) 344-0807 Splash 2183 Highland Rd. Baton Rouge, LA 70802 (225) 242-9491

126 and 124 N. Hollywood Rd. Houma, LA 70364 (985) 580-2582/ (985)872-9997

Club LAX 2301 N. Causeway Blvd Metairie, LA 70001 (504) 834-7979 4 Seasons/ The Out Back Bar 3229 N. Causeway Blvd. Metairie, LA 70002 (504) 832-0659 Billy’s 2600 Hwy. 190 West Slidell, LA 70460 (985) 847-1921 Anything Geauxs 1540 W. Lindberg Dr. Slidell, LA 70458 (985) 643-2191 700 Club 700 Burgundy St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 561-1095 Big Daddy’s 2513 Royal St. New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 948-6288

34 | OUT ON THE TOWN | THE DEEP SOUTH’S HOTTEST GLBT MAGAZINE

801 Bourbon St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 529-2107 Café Lafitte in Exile 901 Bourbon St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 522-8397 The Corner Pocket 940 St. Louis St. New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 568-9829 The Country Club 634 Louisa St. New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 945-0742 Cutter’s 706 Franklin Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 948-4200 Double Play 439 Dauphine St. New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 523-4517 The Friendly Bar 2301 Chartres St. New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 943-8929 JohnPaul’s 940 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 944-1888


Le Roundup 819 St. Louis St. New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 561-8340

Phoenix/Eagle 941 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 945-9264

Tubby’s Golden Lantern 1239 Royal St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 529-2860

Good Friends Bar 740 Dauphine St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 566-7191

Rawhide 2010 740 Burgundy St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 525-8106

Tennessee:

Napoleon’s Itch 734 Bourbon St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 371-5450

Rubyfruit Jungle 1135 Decatur St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 373-5431

Oz 800 Bourbon St. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 593-9491

Orlando’s Society Page 542 N. Rampart St. New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 593-9941

Tribe 1517-A Church St. Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 329-2912 Play Dance Bar 1519 Church St. Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 322-9627

tue.

wed. thur.

fri. sat.

516 Greensboro Ave Downtown Tuscaloosa

icon. open Tue-Sat doors open at 9pm

facebook.com/icontuscaloosa twitter.com/icontuscaloosa

JULY 2011 | 35


Over 50 gay-owned and friendly businesses World class art community • Victorian architecture Energetic nightlife • Beautiful panoramic views Crystal clear lakes • Domestic partner registry Diversity Weekends & GLBT events year-round!

For an attractions and visitors guide call 866-947-4387 or visit www.eurekasprings.org


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