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by James Scott
LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

This wonderful Acadiana area is well known for its hospitality and having a great time. As a native, I can assure you that it does take lots of energy. This is something I am currently running low on. Someone please let me know, how do you do it? The lack of sleep alone is accelerating the aging process. Downtown alive, festivals every weekend and an over active night life...what more could we ask for?

Our party patrol began with the downtown alive excursion. After drinking way too much draft beer and dancing in the streets, we had only just begun. The location of The Sound Factory and Jules being downtown and only blocks from each other, gave us all the more reason to simply party our way from one to the other.

Both of these bars were packed and everyone was having a great time. John Gilland, the owner of The Sound Factory, has staffed his incredible dance club with some of the wittiest bartenders I have ever met. And believe me, I have met plenty! It is always a pleasure to indulge in the company of Mark, Mike and Shawn. Shawn is probably one of the nicest people I have met in a long time. I hope he is aware of what a fantastic job he does. Also thanks to all of you for allowing someone who has had way too much to drink sing off-key and louder than the juke box. I will try to behave a little better next time. No promises.

One of my favorite places to sit and relax is the patio at Jules. Remember, I am getting old quickly and sometimes I need to rest. Ron and Randy, the owners, have not only provided this tranquil atmosphere outside, but have given us another night club where we can enjoy an unbelievably great time. The bartenders, Ronnie, Gina, Buddy and Wil, always greet you with a smile and mix an incredible drink. And I do love me an incredible drink!

A small drive down the road brings you to MoJo Monkey's. Owners Stevie and Dawn are a delight to be around. Every time I go there it seems as though Miss Stevie is running around making sure everything is going perfect for everyone and Miss Dawn is behind the bar working hard enough to make me break a sweat. These girls do an amazing job at working so hard and making it look like so much fun. Once I get there, it seems as though I never want to leave.

Unfortunately, I did miss what I have been told was one of the best Miss Gay Louisiana Pageants. I am very sorry I was not there to show my support to the talented performers representing our area and to give you firsthand details, but I was home, in bed, sick! My sources did provide us with a little information to share with you. I really hope that the information I am giving is correct (not that I do not trust my sources). Some special mentions include Rick Martinez, Promoter and President of Miss Gay Louisiana America, who did an excellent job at putting it on; Tim Bordeleon, owner of Unique Bar and Lounge, what a great club; Sylvia Scarlett, Miss Gay Louisiana America 1998, you did a fabulous job at representing us. Thank You!

Out of 9 contestants from the Acadiana area, 5 were in the top 11 finalists. We knew we would be well represented and have a strong presence in the competition. Special congratulations to Tori Taylor, 3rd runner up; Victoria Valentine, Shayla Grey, Savannah Leigh and the lovely Miss Valerie Sugarbaker. ShaNyia Narcisse, who placed 2nd runner up and winner of the overall talent segment with her rendition of "Last Dance," did an outstanding job! This brings us to the winner of Miss Gay Louisiana America 1999, Jessica Daniels. She proudly represented her crown as Miss Central Louisiana and captured her new title. Best of luck to Jessica as she competes in the Miss Gay America pageant. That event will be held Oct. 22-25 in Little Rock, AK. To all of you who competed in the Miss Gay Louisiana American Pageant, I applaud you. You all deserve special recognition for making it to compete in such an esteemed competition.

It's time to primp! I am looking forward to the Mystic Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette's Royal Announcement Party. I've got my invitation, attire selected, money in-hand and am 'ret to go! On Sat., Oct. 17, Apollo will be announcing the King and Queen Apollo XXIII. This function always proves to be flawless. Thanks for the invitation, and I will see you there!

Special Mentions: John and Jay, welcome back to Lafayette. Jay, I hope you enjoy the "doughnut" picture. Shelton, as usual it was a great time. The "party train to New Orleans," I had a wonderful time, in spite of some things. Dave and Scott, it was a pleasure meeting both of you. Come back to Lafayette often! These guys were CUTE! Until next time...

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