Just Out recently received this write-up from man on the scene, Jerry Kallioinen–aka Snickers LaBarr–on the 2009 GayVN Awards.

Enjoy.

“March 28, 2009, San Francisco, CA — Limos, lights and red carpet, it was all there at the recent GayVN Awards 2009. Now in its 11^th year, the ceremony, held at the Castro Theatre, buzzed with energy that late March evening. I found myself in the middle of adult-industry writers, directors, producers, and of course, porn stars.

A series of stretch limos began to arrive promptly at 6 p.m. As each car door was opened by a “model quality” chauffeur, the men of Titan Media, Colt, Raging Stallion, Falcon and other studios emerged with the force of a volcanic eruption. These men walked the red carpet, stopping briefly  for photos and quick questions from reporters and other writers like myself. Most actors – yes, that’s how they are referred to in that venue – expressed what an honor it was to be nominated along such great performers.

I recognized how those at the Emmys or the Academy Awards might feel, except this was adult entertainment. I suspect many reading this have some sort of a relationship with viewing porn and probably even have a few favorite stars. But you may not be aware how the industry acknowledges people in the business: There were 47 categories this year alone. Chi Chi LaRue was given the first Trailblazer Award for her three decades in the porn industry. LaRue accepted her award via video, since she was busy working in Australia.

The event was hosted by comedienne Margaret Cho, self-proclaimed “first supermodel” Janice Dickinson, and Alec Mapa from television’s Ugly Betty; presenters included Bruce Vilanch. The celebs delivered the humor, camp and risqué monologues the audience was hungry for. As I watched recipients accept their awards, I marveled at the fact there was absolutely no nudity or even a glimpse of porn on the big screens. The entire ceremony was ready for prime-time – go figure.

Though I could go on and on about the night before pre-show parties, the afternoon “Porn Awards Brunch” and the wild after-parties, I’ll save that for another time. This was definitely a weekend I won’t soon forget. Who knows if I’ll attend next year, but I do know I left something in San Francisco, and I’m not sure it was my heart.”

For more about the event, including a full list of winners, check out www.GAYVN.com, www.nakedsword.com, info@lavenderlounge.com.