by Brad Benedict
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

LOL Meeting

Baton Rougeans made their way to the Crescent City for the latest meeting of the Lords of Leather last weekend. It was one of the more productive meetings since I've been covering these for Ambush. George Hester has returned this year as president after taking a year off to rest. The officers are made up of guys from Baton Rouge and New Orleans, and they seem to be working really well together.

Our own Todd Cole will be representing the Lords and the state of Louisiana in the Mr. International Leather contest to be held in Chicago in May, so keep your fingers and toes crossed. This man is a superb candidate, and I truly think he may walk away with the big one. If you were at the LOL's Bal Masque XVIII this year, you would know him as the mighty Hercules.

Todd really is Hercules in many ways. You won't find a nicer, kinder, more understanding individual anywhere. He's a fine example of what intelligence and a high standard of excellence means. What more can I say except that this man is exceptional in all respects. I love him, and I respect him.

Lots of plans were examined and voted on at the meeting. The next big function of this group is the American Bandstand show, "Hoes in Heatwave," to be held at Cowpokes on June 9th. This is always a great way to see the leather guys strut their stuff in most unusual outfits. You would be amazed. Set aside this date, and make your way to Lord King XVIII Timm Holt's Cowpokes for the big extravaganza.

And be at their next Mardi Gras ball too. These guys know how to put on a good show, and Feb. 10, 2002 is the date to remember. I'll keep you updated on their ball and their activities.

By the way, Lord Consort XVIII is our very own Red Sticker, Matt Scott. This is another super little guy that you need to get to know. He really is a joy to be around, and I treasure his friendship and all the things we do together. Oops! Sorry, Tommy. Didn't mean to spill the beans.

Icon Land - Icon continues to pack them in to this exceptional entertainment facility here in Baton Rouge. It's Oz's little brother, or sister, whichever the case might be. All I know is that this is a fine place to enjoy a night out. The drinks are great and very reasonably priced, and the dance music is the greatest.

Of course, I like to go just to look at the good lookin' bartenders and customers. I could never get enough of Dallas. He's just one special little guy. I ran into him last week at Hibiscus Bookstore. He reported that he made a big impression with his teacher on that paper he did on homosexuality. It seems the bookman steered him in the right direction and loaned him all the material he needed to come up with an excellent research paper. He also told me all about that Texas trip which made him a happy and satisfied camper.

I don't know how many of you noticed Sammy's picture in the last issue, but it was a very sexy pose. Of course, Sammy reeks with sexuality, and that smile will melt you away. The Buddy man is one lucky guy to have such a beauty by his side. I think they are on their way to Las Vegas about now, and as soon as they get back, I'll report to you about all their winnings. These guys are neighbors to that cute False River guy I discussed last week too.

That would be none other than New Roads' own Jason who came by to see me yesterday. He's still unaware of just how beautiful he really is. I'm one of those who can spot beauty from all angles. In the case of this one, he's got the intelligence to go with it. I guess I shouldn't talk about him so much. He already has a line of admirers trying to get to him, and I'm just going to add to the list and make things worse, or better, whichever you care to describe it. But he is a very special little guy.

I've heard a lot about Icon greeter Brandon too, but I need to get to know this one better. I only know him from talking to him and Trixxie as I come in the door. However, everything I've heard about him is nice. I hear that personality sometimes takes you into hysterics with his comedic routines. What's that about that leg, darling? Left, right, or middle?

If you are planning your schedule of nights out, be sure to include Icon on your list. Phil is doing a great job with this entertainment venue, and he has lots of good stuff coming your way on Wed., Thurs., Fri., and Sat. nights.

And George's Too - Well, I didn't know Richard was switching karaoke to Wed. nights until I saw their ad in the last issue. They are doing a lot of changing around over there, but it seems that it's working out quite well.

I do need to tell you that our sweet Richard was in the hospital over the weekend. He thought his ticker was acting up and went in for a checkup. He came out okay and is back at the bar. It seems his blood pressure shot up when that heavenly stripper lay down on the bar. My goodness, that was a pretty child. He looked so good in those black tights and even better when he came out of them. Be still my heart!

I think Guy and Richard have done a fine job in managing this historic Baton Rouge bar. I call it historic because that's exactly what it is. It is almost a Red Stick institution. People from all over the world have stopped in to check out its charm and gone away with a feeling of having been to a special place. George's Place is listed in all the Gay guides, and this has paid off for them. It's the place with the personal touch. I'll drink to that.

The Cage Away - Paul and Michael may be going to Key West for a month or so. They are moving their place of business to another location, and while the paperwork is being done, they are planning a little trip back to the tropics. I saw Paul today and told him to make sure he looked up my little Ray of sunshine. Now THAT beauty is one that has held my interest since the first time I saw him. He's just a beautiful guy all over. Ray, darling, you are a fine example of young manhood, and that smile just drives me wild. You owe me big time, sweetheart!

Okay, Paul, be sure to give him my message, or I may have to got to Key West too. That may be in my plans for June. It's time for another trip, and it is either Key West or San Francisco or San Diego. I love California, so maybe I'll just do all three cities this year. At any rate, tell everyone I know in Key West hello. And hurry back. I'm anxious to see the new bar open and get you all back in gear.

Oh, and Paul darling, I believe you owe me something too.

And the Hide-A-Way - I don't get to see Matt too often, but I caught him behind the bar at the Hide-A-Way last week. This is another dreamboat that you all need to get to know. He's a great asset to Minette's place of business. He was relieving Suzanne while she kept the pool scores. They were going at it hot and heavy, and the balls were flying, the pool balls, that is.

Minette was having a great time too as were all her guests. It was a lively night, and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. Christmas Michael went with me. We were making our way over to that joyful Mexican restaurant on Airline, but we needed to relax at the Hide-A-Way before continuing our night's activities. Michael is another super guy. He and the bookman often get it on together. I mean exchanging flowers and pictures and things like that. Goodness! I guess you thought I meant something else.

The inside appearance of the Hide-A-Way is a great improvement over what it used to be. I always find it to be a friendly and enjoyable place to rest and relax. The guys and gals here are always so nice to be around. And I can drool over Matt while I'm there.

Miscellanea a la mode - I'll tell you next time about the winners of the first Mr., Miss, and Ms. Krewe of Royalty winners. It's coming up after the deadline for submittals. Also coming up in the near future is the Mr., Miss, and Ms. Lafayette Royal Order of Unicorn contest. That one is a must also because I get to see that beautiful John Boy. In fact, I think he is to be a judge at the Royalty function too. Wow! I do enjoy this one.

I'll also find out the particulars on the rush party for the Lafayette ROUers. It's coming up soon, and I'll try to get over there to cover it. This is one group of fine young people and an old one or two. Sorry, Fred. I just had to say that. But I will have to say one thing. It's very nice to see senior citizens still participating in Mardi Gras activities, and it's a very positive thing to do. After all, we've been there, done that, and still want to do more. I think it's kinda' like being in heat on a 24-hour basis. One just can't get enough. And don't forget that Earl, darling. And you too, Emile. I eagerly await that big day.

Congratulations to Mr. Butt Beautiful of 2001 on his latest birthday. This sweetie is a fabulous little guy, and he only gets more beautiful with age. How old was it this time, darling? 21? That big policeman is a very lucky man. I hope he knows that.

Congratulations also to Debbie and Claudette on that fabulous new addition to their home in Spanish Town. Just think darlings, you won't have to look up to see a naked neighbor running around her bedroom. Just sit on the upper deck and look right in her window. That was a brilliant idea. Just let me know the next time you see the handsome son doing a strip behind this walled complex. I'll come running.

Thanks to all of you guys and gals who make compiling this little column so rewarding. The list of names would go on and on. However, you know who you are, and you realize how you make life a little more exciting for this writer with your charming ways and your loving endeavors.

And a special thank you goes out to 30% Mo' Hoochie (Selma Pussy, Goldie Lishiss, and Sopheelya Groin) and to Steven too. My goodness, Steven! I had no idea! Wow!