The Husbear and I have traveled to New Orleans for Southern Decadence every year since 2003 (except for 2005 when Katrina rolled through). For the last few years we have gone as part of the Decadent Ducks, and will do so again in another week!

click to see pics from all our Decadent adventures

While the following is is not something I normally would post, Troy, the head of the Decadent Ducks, asked so I will.

Decadent Ducks Raise Funds for HIV/AIDS Organization Food For Friends
Hurricane Gustav put a damper on the 2008 Southern Decadence festivities, but a dedicated group of “ducks” are heading back to New Orleans, determined to make up for lost time. The Decadent Ducks, a gay travel and social network, will return to the French Quarter over Labor Day weekend for their 12th year of revelry. The Ducks, led by Bennington, Vermont resident Troy Richardson, anticipate over 350 of their group members to attend the 36th annual LGBT celebration this year.

In addition to various events and parties scheduled throughout the weekend, the Decadent Ducks are putting their numbers to good use by joining Southern Decadence XXXVI Grand Marshals Tittie Toulouse and Paloma in raising money for Food For Friends. The Food For Friends Program of NO/AIDS Task Force has been supplying groceries and home-delivered meals to HIV-infected and -affected individuals in the greater New Orleans area for 12 years. The Ducks will host a silent auction and raffle during the course of the weekend and will donate all proceeds to the program.

“The people of New Orleans have always welcomed us with open arms and treated us with tolerance and respect,” Richardson explains. “I can’t stress enough how important that is, especially in this day and age, when the gay community seems to be under attack so often. That means a lot. We’ve been very lucky, and we’re really excited to be able to give something back.”

More than just a travel group, the Decadent Ducks have evolved into a close network of friends from all over the world, and they credit New Orleans for fostering and inspiring their spirit of camaraderie and friendship. With last year’s event cut short, the group is looking forward to this year more than ever. “There’s definitely a greater sense of anticipation this year,” Richardson says, with a smile. “We didn’t get the full experience last year, so we’re hoping to make up for it. I didn’t even get my beignets and cafe au lait last year! We can’t wait to get back!” The 700 Club (700 Burgundy Street) will be acting as the official bar of the Decadent Ducks all weekend.

Discounted hotel rooms with the Ducks are still available. To learn more about the Decadent Ducks or Food For Friends, visit the official website at www.decadentducks.com.