by Toni Pizanie
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
Chicago Leather Weekend E
(Photo: Steve Lenius, Lavender Magazine) |
My sincere thanks to former Producer of Gulf State Olympus Joni Perrie, Grand Master Robert Jexter, columnist Steve Lenius of Lavender Magazine, John Weiler — Mr. Northwoods, Connie Cox —president of Defenders NY, Mr. Olympus 2003 Robert and his precious wife Jo Ann, Randal Kinnear 2003 Man of the Year, and my newest baby brother Daddy Karl. These people and many more showed me great consideration and a good time.
I wish I could have brought home the Ms. Olympus 2004 sash but that was won by Lillian Hannah of Kentucky. She was a good competitor and will serve the title well. It is no shame having lost to Lillian. Daddy Karl Kammer shared the second spot with me. Daddy Mikey Harned was selected Mr. Olympus 2004. All three of them did flogging fantasies. It is difficult to say which was better between the men. Certainly Mikey’s was extremely sexy but Karl’s tender depiction of the flogging of a virgin and wrapping her in the S/M flag was outstanding.
I had to do something completely different — an original reading about my leather climb to the peak of Olympus. I got some good feedback. I still haven’t seen scores so I don’t know what the judges thought. I was questioned at length about my health and detected a bit of ageism on the part of the judges. I was even called back for a second interview which I found odd as no one else was questioned twice. I was asked about my mother’s health as well. After these questions that I felt were inappropriate, I knew I wouldn’t be chosen but I still enjoyed the competition, drama and fun of the Mr./Ms Olympus Contest.
There was a slight downside after the contest. Karl and I were not treated with the same respect that Bree received in the Gulf States Olympus contest. At least she got a medal and was acknowledged. We were rushed out of the way and later given a split of cheap champagne and a can of popcorn. So much for national events having style. Still for me that 10 minutes of annoyance couldn’t possibly cast a shadow over a great weekend and wonderful people.
Vote March 9 for #192; Ambush Endorses Robert Teixeira
Publisher/Editor Rip Naquin Delain gave me the name of a candidate for the Democratic Executive Committee and asked that I check him out. After a short hour on the phone and study of his bio, I am confident that Robert Teixeira #192 will represent District C with intelligence, compassion and concern for GLBT issues. Robert and his partner Zafir Bureai make their home in the 8th Ward on St. Roch Avenue. He moved to New Orleans six years ago after a visit when he fell in love with our culture and tradition. He started the St. Roch Avenue Neighbors’ Association and is a member of the Faubourg St. Roch Improvement Association. The openly Gay Caucasian, Robert has no problems working and living comfortably in an interracial community.
Robert grew up in Erie, PA and earned a BA in public administration and studio arts from Myercyhurst College in Erie. He received an M.P.I.A. in public and international affairs from the University of Pittsburgh, and an MA in theology from Chicago’s Catholic Theological Union. Today he is attending SUNO and will graduate in April with a Masters in Social Work.
While in Catholic seminary, Robert took Jewish studies as his masters work. He converted and later learned that his grandfather had been Jewish. He is a member of Shir Chadash Synagogue in Metairie. Robert has also shown an interest in visiting the Church of Christ the Liberator to enjoy first hand a Gay catholic church. He is a member of HRC and an active supporter of Gay causes such as the NO/AIDS Walk and Lazarus House.
When asked why he wants to serve on the executive committee, Robert said, "I hope to make the committee into the grassroots ear of the Party, into a bridge between ordinary people and elected Democrats, and into an engine that will turn out votes for Democratic candidates. I certainly look forward to working with other members in defeating George W. Bush."
Robert also knows that his experience at SUNO has taught him to be a better listener. He wants to reach out to those who have been shut out. His phone number appears on his campaign literature and he expects people to call with their needs and suggestions.
This is not new ground for Robert. He worked as a Dean field organizer in Iowa and Louisiana. While working for Dean, Robert realized that taking back the country starts at the grassroots level.
Robert is employed as the editor and writer of educational books. He will represent well. Vote Robert Teixeira #192 on March 9.
Fundraisers for Kerry T
All proceeds go to the John Kerry for President Campaign. Call 504.866.9806 or 504.455.4489 for information or added information.
Also on Fri., March 5 at Howlin’ Wolf, democracy rocks will feature a fundraiser to take back the White House.
Featured artists are Eric Lindell, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews and Orleans Avenue Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes. Call 504.231.4543 for information.
Prepare to Vote for Chris John and John Kennedy T
One Last Note T
Brought to you by
Copyright © Ambush, Inc. All Rights Reserved ®
Over 3.5 MILLION hits per month & 375,000 unique visitors per month
828-A Bourbon Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70116-3137, USA
PH 1.504.522.8047