Even if they have never made a pilgrimage to the infamous boudoir, most Harrisonburg residents know where to find Pamela's Secret.

Nestled comfortably at the well-traveled locale of 3051 S. Main St., the flamingo-pink structure that houses Pamela's is rather hard to miss. Pamela's Secret, for those who are not familiar with their line of business, is a tastefully operated adult boutique. There are no scantily dressed tarts dancing in cages or Village People-esque leathermen posing as sales clerks.

Although Pamela's wares are quite a bit more risqué than say, those of Farmer Jack, the principles of business are universal. One can just as easily pick up a loaf of bread from the Jack as they can a pair of nipple clamps. No biggie. Money is money no matter what your product might be.

Last year, I had the chance to speak with the owner and manager of Pamela's Secret, Dean Julias. I later found out that the boutique was named in honor of Julias' girlfriend.

According to Julias, the store has experienced tremendous success since its opening three years ago. The clientele demographic consists of a relatively even split between male and female. Julias said he sees quite a slew of JMU kiddies on a day-to-day basis.

Not surprisingly, it seems that local and perennial residents are doing their share to keep Larry Flynt in business, as Julias indicated that Hustler is the overwhelmingly preferred publication at Pamela's.

Pamela's is, by far and away, the place you want to check out if you are looking to add a little sass to your social life. The top floor of Pamela's houses an extensive video collection that includes more than 1,000 titles. In this fleshy oasis you can find anything from a classic Ron Jeremy masterpiece to more recent fare such as Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee's home video. Whatever you choose, it's sure to be a real crowd pleaser in your dorm or apartment complex. Downstairs, the facility is divided into three sections. Pamela's lingerie collection includes crotchless pieces, latex, bondage wear, and a bevy of other items that would make ol' Vicky herself blush. In the adjacent room, the customer is treated to a varied selection of magazines, starting with the granddaddy of them all, Playboy and moving on to saucier publications.

This portion of the store is not simply for the frat boy searching for the latest issue of Big'uns (a la Al Bundy). In addition to the tried and true hetero market, Pamela's offers a large number of gay and lesbian titles, which are also quite popular.

There is an abundant supply of vibrators and whatnot ranging dramatically in size, shape and consistency. One of my personal recommendations from this section is the packet of genitalia shaped ice cubes. Just plop them into your fellow partier's Solo cup and hilarity is sure to ensue!

For those of you students who might be feeling a bit skittish about doing some window-shopping, let me assure you that no one at Pamela's is concerned with your presence.You can pop in, charge that coveted pair of crotchless panties and be back home swilling cheap booze in no time. So, as my final nugget of wisdom I suggest you muster up the gumption and head on over to Pamela's and pick yourself up a "thong tha-thong thong thong."