•We are the owners and the managers making it easy for you
•We’re for guests who are looking for elegance, privacy, and peace & quiet
•We offer all the little extras that make a vacation home special
•All homes are pet-friendly, Non-smoking, WiFi enabled and have Smart TVs
The men’s health services you want, where you want them.
When it comes to high quality health care, Eisenhower is here for you — now with six great health clinics in the Palm Springs area, and an enhanced focus on services that meet the unique health needs of men.
• Primary Care and Eisenhower 365
• HIV Care
• Eisenhower Desert Orthopedic Center
• Imaging and Lab Services
• Urgent Care
• Psychology
• Psychiatry
• Dermatology
• Medical Specialties (Available at South Palm Canyon)
~ Eisenhower Desert Cardiology Center
Gastroenterology
~ Infusion
Neurology
~ Oncology
~ Pain Management
Learn more at PSHealth.EisenhowerHealth.org or call 760-773-1460.
Eisenhower Health Center at Sunrise 151 S. Sunrise Way
Eisenhower Health Center at Rimrock
4791 E. Palm Canyon Drive
Eisenhower Brimble and Jones Health Center
1555-C S. Palm Canyon Drive
Eisenhower Health Center at South Palm Canyon
415 S. Palm Canyon Drive
Eisenhower Primary Care at North Palm Canyon
1401 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 202
Eisenhower Dermatology Center
1080 N. Indian Canyon, Suite 200
COMMENTARY
We wish all of our readers, supporters, and partners a safe and ridiculously happy holiday season. We are deeply grateful for your support; the magical fuel that keeps our publication running, caffeinated, and only occasionally stressed. We absolutely could not have done it without you. Seriously. A million thanks…
We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our incredibly talented Art Director (who makes everything look fabulous), our dedicated team of writers (who survive on deadlines and stubborn optimism), our wonderful photographer (who somehow makes us all look good), and, of course, our advertisers (the heroes who make the lights stay on).
As we march boldly, possibly chaotically into 2026, we look forward to bringing you outstanding editorial content, LGBTQ+ news, views, perspectives, and plenty of fun and informative features. Think of it as your yearly subscription to brilliance with a side of sparkle.
Wishing you all the best for a joyful holiday season and a very happy, safe, and prosperous New Year. May your celebrations be bright, your resolutions achievable, and your snacks plentiful.
You got something to say?
Email us to be considered on our commentary page at info@thestandardps.com
The Standard Magazine
400 N Sunrise Way #263 Palm Springs CA 92262
760.831.4869
NINO EILETS Publisher
LUCIANO McNULTY Editor
MAYA KALABIC Art Director
PHOTOGRAPHER
David A. Lee
CONTRIBUTORS
Chris Astrala, Daniel Vaillancourt, John Stein, Shane Gallagher, Mikey Rox, Ethan Thorpe, Josue Lombardo, Duncan Obermein, Max Jimenez, Mike Nelson, Jacquelyn James, Trevor Garrison, Stacy Holmes, Greg Stillwell, Dann Foley, Jill Langham & Terri Schlichenmeyer www.thestandardps.com
The Standard Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinions of the Standard or its staff, advertisers or readers with exception of editorials. Publication of the name or photograph of any person, business or organization in articles or advertising in the Standard is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person, business or organization. The Standard disclaims any responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Advertising rates are subject to change without notice. The Standard reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to reject any advertisement for any reason including, but not limited to poor taste. It is the policy of The Standard that we only publish letters to the editor that are signed by the author and verifiable by phone number. We can reserve the right of anonymity upon request. The letters need to be original, in good taste and free of libel as well as edited for clarity and grammar. Letters are subject to editing by The Standard that also reserves the right to decline print. Please forward your letters to: info@thestandardps.com The views expressed is not necessarily those of The Standard. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. No portion of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed consent of the publisher.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: 2025 COVER
BY ETHAN THORPE
If you are like most people, you haven’t given the holidays much thought. Granted the reminders have been in the stores for a while now, Halloween pumpkin carving kits next to Thanksgiving turkey recipes right next to Christmas tree ornaments. Face it, the holiday season is here, even if it doesn’t quite feel like it. And you have no idea what to get those special people in your life. But, fear not fellow procrastinators, we’ve got you covered.
The Standard Magazine Holiday Gift Guide is packed with unique, fun ideas, offering everything from extravagant splurges to thoughtful, budget-friendly finds. And who knows? If you’ve been nice (or even a little naughty), you might just receive a few of them yourself.
COOL GEEK CD PLAYER
Let Music Transcend Time
As digital music takes over, CD players are quietly fading away. Your cherished collection of discs may still sit on a shelf, waiting, unheard. The M1 is more than a CD player. It’s a transparent time capsule — a messenger from the past, bringing back the warmth, romance, and soul of music you once loved. www.coolgeekaudio.com
SATAVI NATURALS THE EARLY RISER SELF CARE KIT
Morning routines deserve just as much attention as evening wind-downs, and this thoughtful kit makes early hours feel indulgent instead of rushed. It’s perfect for busy professionals, new moms, or anyone who tends to prioritize everyone else’s needs over their own.
www.amazon.com
LAWA SWIRL CANDLE
These sculptural swirl candles look pretty and also happen to smell incredible. Whether displayed on a coffee table or bathroom counter, these beauties are eco-friendly and can elevate any room’s look.
www.amazon.com
LARQ SELF-CLEANING WATER BOTTLE
What if a water bottle was more than just a water bottle? Enter LARQ, which uses UV technology to purify H20 and keep the interior clean. It’s never been easier (and healthier) to stay hydrated. www.livelarq.com
BANG & OLUFSEN BEOSOUND EXPLORE PORTABLE SPEAKER
Everything is better with a portable speaker. Bang & Olufsen’s weighs less than 1 1/2 pounds and can be easily strapped to a backpack or purse for a day out on the town or the trail. Battery lasts up to 27 hours, and colors range from green and brown to white and black. www.bang-olufsen.com
ZAFFERANO POLDINA PRO TABLE LAMP
Portable lighting is all the rage. Make sure your loved one is staying on trend with one of the classics from Zafferano. It lasts 12 hours per charge, comes in a wide range of colors, and looks chic in just about any setting. www.zafferanoamerica.com
SMEG ELECTRIC KETTLE
It’s a classic! Smeg’s retro-inspired electric kettle has become a staple in many kitchens, and it’s not hard to see why. The chic design pairs with convenient features, like a swivel base, auto shut off, and more. Plus, it’s available in just about every color of the rainbow. www.smeg.com
COVER
CAPRI BLUE VOLCANO REED OIL DIFFUSER
You know it; you love it; we’ve probably all bought at least one refill of it. Capri Blue’s famous Volcano fragrance isn’t going anywhere, and it’s just as lovely a gift now as ever. Zesty notes of tropical fruit and sugared citrus come together for a sweet-yet-elegant aroma that will keep house guests jealous. www.capri-blue.com
JONATHAN ADLER VERSAILLES COASTERS
Make it pop! Take a cocktail table to the next level with a set of four coasters that feel oh so Art Deco. The 24-karat gold details add an extra bit of razzle-dazzle. www.jonathanadler. com
ROLL THE DICE
For those in a constant state of what-shall-we-eat paralysis, the Fanice Eos Food Dice Decider can offer some much-needed peace of mind. The stainless-steel die is engraved with different cuisines on its six sides (Italian, Mexican, etc.) to help even the most decision averse. www.amazon.com
BOXBOLLEN
Take a break from sitting, clear your head and burn some fat
A light cardio workout or high-intensity intervals, you choose! Boxbollen is your perfect training partner. Complement your other training such as running, boxing, yoga, weight training, basketball and other sports. www.boxbollen.com
COVER
RELAXING SHOWER STEAMERS
Unwind after a long day of Christmas shopping. These shower steamers make it possible to enjoy self-care in a pinch, just place the steamer on the floor of the shower and the hot water will release the fragrance. This set includes 8 scents infused with essential oils, including mint and eucalyptus, lavender, and rosemary. www.swcandy.com
LUX SKIN® LED FACIAL MASK
Everyone’s talking about the benefits of LED face masks and dermatologists told say they can deliver anti-aging and acne-fighting effects. There are red light, blue light, and yellow light settings for various skincare benefits. Every charge delivers two hours of battery life, and most treatments take between 15 and 30 minutes. www.luxskin.co
CAMP SNAP SCREEN-FREE DIGITAL CAMERA
This digital camera captures vintage-inspired photos (up to 500 per charge). There isn’t a screen, so it’s more about living in the moment. It plugs directly into your smart phone with a USB-C and see how easy it is to download the photos right to your phone. There’s also a ton of fun color options. www.urbanoutfitters.com
SLEEK SPEAKER BY MOREL HÖGTALARE
Good tech doesn’t have to look techie. The Morel Högtalare Bluetooth speaker is a perfect example of what can happen when designers hide good tech behind great design. Concealed inside the sleek box (which comes in four color options and is about the size of a large cake box), there’s a 6-inch woofer with heart-thumping bass output, plus two of the same type of fabric dome tweeters you’d find in many high-end speakers. www.morelhifi.com
OURA RING 4
The Oura Ring 4 is for anyone on your list who wants to keep track of all their health stats all the time. It looks and wears like a sleek piece of jewelry, but it keeps tabs on way more than just steps and sleep. Among other things, it can tell the wearer their heart-rate variability, blood-oxygen rate, and body temperature. www.ouraring.com
BELKIN MAGSAFE 3-IN-1 WIRELESS CHARGING STAND
The Belkin MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand 2nd Gen is our top pick for wirelessly charging an iPhone, an Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. Available in black or white, it’s faster than most models we tested, and it comes with a 5-foot cord and has a two-year warranty. If someone you love is an Apple product devotee, they can’t do better for keeping their beloved gadgets organized and quickly, reliably juiced. www.belkin.com
BAMBU LAB A1 MINI
Tech-savvy creators, creatives, and engineering types can have a ball with a 3D printer. Our top pick for a relatively affordable home version is the Bambu Lab A1 Mini. It has a blessedly simple setup procedure, automatically calibrating itself and removing one of the most annoying hurdles to getting started. www.bambulab.com
THE MANSCAPED PERFORMANCE PACKAGE
Trim to aftercare, this all-inclusive kit has everything you need to feel clean cut and confident. After you’re done taking care down there, head north to get rid of those pesky nose and ear hairs. www.manscaped.com
COVER TECHY GIFTS
META RAY-BAN SMART WAYFARER
Glasses that can take photos or videos, play music into your ears, and read you a street sign in a different language—weird, but the nerd in your life will enjoy them. www.ray-ban.com
PLAUD NOTE PIN AI VOICE RECORDER
If they are using ChatGPT for everything, they may be into this. It’s an AI-powered micro-machine that can be a voice recorder, transcriber, summary giver, and notetaker all in one. All of that in the device that fits in the palm of your hand. www.plaud.ai
XGIMI MOGO 4
There’s no shortage of portable projectors on the market, but the issue with most of them is user interface. Xgimi fixed this by actually licensing Google TV for the MoGo 3 Pro. The result is a portable projector that just works seamlessly. Netflix, Disney, HBO Max—it’s all there with simple log-in processes. www.amazon.com
AUDIO-TECHNICA SOUND BURGER PORTABLE TURNTABLE
If they love music, they probably already have a turntable and an insatiable taste for vinyl. This portable record player is the perfect left-field gift that they will actually get some use out of. Take it to a party and hook it up to the Bluetooth speaker for retro tunes done the high-tech way. www.audio-technica.com
SNOOZ SMART WHITE NOISE MACHINE
The Snooz is the perfect small white-noise machine for the crowded nightstand. Intuitive touch controls make it feel techy if you’re into that, but it’s just as easy to set your schedule once and never touch the thing again.
www.getsnooz.com
MOLESKINE SMART WRITING SET
If they’re a notetaker, a doodler, or someone who just loves to write everything down by hand, this is the perfect gift. It’s a notebook and smart pen combo that sends everything you write to the cloud. It helps keep digital notes and sketches organized and easy to return to. www.moleskine.com
KOSS PORTA PRO ON-EAR HEADPHONES
These are the headphones for all the audiophiles and viny diehards in your life. If you don’t quite understand them, that’s fine; just know they will appreciate a gift as thoughtful as the Porta Pro. www.koss.com
COURANT MAG:3 CLASSICS CHARGER TRAY
It’s a bedside charger and catchall that looks nicer than any other tech item. The saddle leather gives it a classy look. If they have an iPhone and messy bedside table, this is a solid option.
https://staycourant.com
because LGBTQ+ health matters
COVER FOODIE LOVERS GIFTS
FLAMINGO ESTATE ESSENTIALS SET
Try his “desert island” favorites, from the estate’s peppery, robust extra virgin olive oil to freshly roasted coffee beans to zesty salt made from a family recipe. The brand also includes sunny persimmon vinegar, smoky salsa macha, and wildflower honey, all packed in an embossed gift box. www.flamingoestate.com
SOMOS SALSA MACHA MEXICAN CHILI CRISP
Dial up the heat this holiday season with a gift set that packs plenty of artisanal flavor. Inspired by Mexico’s rich culinary culture, this gift set features Somos’ cult-favorite chili crisp. Add this addictive salsa, made with avocado oil, chilies, nuts, and seeds, to anything we haven’t found anything yet that it doesn’t improve. www.eatsomos.com
DIASPORA
CO. POPCORN ESSENTIALS KIT
Upgrade movie night with this kit from Diaspora Spice Co. We love this crimson popping corn that pops up fluffy and white, full of deep corn flavor. Diaspora Co. combines it with its savory popcorn seasoning and buttery ghee from Ancient Organics for the best popcorn you’ve ever had. www.disporaco.com
We aren’t being dramatic when we say these might be the best dates in the world — certainly the best dates in America. Grown in Palm Springs CA, these jumbo organic Medjool dates from Rancho Meladuco have nothing in common with dry, crepey grocery store versions. Hand-selected and packed, they’re utterly tender and bursting with toffee, brown sugar, and caramel flavor. www.ranchomeladuco.com
NINJA
ICE CREAM & FROZEN TREAT MAKER
Who doesn’t love ice cream? Ninja’s makes all kinds of sweet treats, from frozen yogurt to Italian ice. If dairy is an issue, it can even make vegan desserts with the right ingredients. www.sharkninja.com
COMPARTES BOOZY CHOCOLATE GIFT BOX 5 BOOZY CHOCOLATE BARS
This set from Compartés features their signature high impact packaging designs, decorating the exterior of five boozy chocolate bars: Margarita Lime, Martini Espresso, Champagne, Whiskey, and Strawberry Champagne. The sweets are tucked inside a chic, crocodile-print textured box and finished with a bow. www.compartes.com
MEAT LOVER’S DELIGHT
Campo Grande is on a mission to deliver the best of Spain’s delicious food culture straight to your doorstep—from free-range Ibérico pork raised on humane family farms to sustainable European seafood and grassfed Vaca Vieja beef. This box from the Spanish food specialists is a gift for that special carnivore in your life. Sure to please All those self-proclaimed grill masters. www.eatcampogrande.com
LAST CRUMB THE CORE COLLECTION
You never want to show up to a holiday party empty-handed, but there are only so many bottles of wine you can buy a person. The next time you get together for some revelry, gift your host a box of goodies from Last Crumb. The California-based company makes each cookie in this box of a dozen from scratch, using high-quality ingredients and giving them conversation-worthy names, like The Floor is Lava (chocolate lava) and Donkey Kong (banana cream pie). www.lastcrumb.com
MAGNOLIA BAKERY BAKED FRESH SAMPLER PACK
If you can’t spring for a trip to the Big Apple, bringing this New York favorite to the homes of your friends and family is the next best thing. The variety pack includes the classic, decadent banana pudding, plus seasonal flavors and a few of Magnolia Bakery’s brownies and blondies. There’s something for everyone, though after one bite, anyone on your list will turn into a Magnolia Bakery banana pudding fan. www.magnoliabakery.com
GIADZY SHEET PAN LASAGNA BOX
Giada De Laurentiis went viral for her sheet pan lasagna, and for good reason, taccole pasta replaces classic lasagna noodles, and toppings get swatched across a sheet pan for endless crispy edges, and a lot less construction. This kit includes pasta, premium extra virgin olive oil, spicy seasoned salt, and bright passata or tomatoes. Send this to your loved ones for an easy, delicious dinner; all they have to do is add the cheese. www.giadzy.com
TRUFF TRUFFLE LOVER’S PACK
Truff’s earthy, truffle-infused condiments and their elegant, jewel-like bottles have become icons for good reason. Gift this bundle of some of their crowd favorites to the truffle lover in your life. The set includes savory Signature Black Truffle Hot Sauce, Black Truffle Marinara Pasta Sauce, and Black Truffle Oil in an elegant box. www.truff.com
MURRAY’S CHEESE THE FRENCH CONNECTION GIFT BOX
This box from Murray’s Cheese? Chock full of French icons. Murray’s includes four French wedges nutty aged Comté, buttery Bucheron, funky Roquefort, and mild Morbier with pairings like Castelvetrano olives, truffle salami, and the Basque Country’s black cherry confit. Everything comes in a chic gift box. It’s the perfect gift for a Francophile who wants a tour of France on a plate. www.murrayscheese.com
GODIVA CHOCOLATIER DESSERT TRUFFLES GIFT BOX
Holiday Chocolates? Yes Please!! Godiva’s world is immersive, rich in texture, taste, and tone. Chocolate here is felt, not just tasted, engaging every sense. Godiva has a wide range of sweet treats available, including this set of 12 sumptuous truffles. www.godiva.com
SMOKEHOUSE ULTIMATE GRILLING SEASONING SET
The Smokehouse Ultimate Grilling Seasoning Set is the perfect gift for the grill master in your life. With 20 bold and flavorful seasonings, including Chili Garlic, Rosemary and Herb, Lime Chipotle, and Cajun, this set offers endless possibilities for enhancing meats, vegetables, and more. Each seasoning brings a unique twist to your grilling experience, making it great for experimenting with new flavors. www.thoughtfully.com
KITCHENAID DESIGN SERIES EVERGREEN STAND MIXER
This mixer is the design-minded version of the workhorse KitchenAid mixer and it’s just as sturdy, relatively quiet, and easy to use plus a walnut mixing bowl. This thing is so pretty, it’s tempting to give it as a gift even if your loved one has never baked so much as an oatmeal cookie. www.kitchenaid.com
COVER CHRISTMAS GIFTS THAT DON’T REQUIRE WRAPPING PAPER OR RIBBON
BY CHRIS ASTRALA
Christmas gifts don’t have to be predictable. Too often we miss the mark with the same old, same old (socks, underwear, perfume etc, etc…) but this year you can go beyond the ordinary with experiences that create lasting memories. From adrenaline-filled adventures to relaxing escapes, these unique experiences will surely impress and show just how much you care.
LUXURY SPORTS CAR DRIVING EXPERIENCE
PRIVATE BREWERY OR DISTILLERY TOUR
Go for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of a local brewery or distillery. Learn about the craft, sample limited-release brews or spirits and even take home a souvenir bottle or glass to commemorate the day. Perfect for anyone who enjoys savoring fine drinks.
Live out automotive dreams by driving a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Porsche on a professional racetrack. Whether a speed enthusiast or just a car lover, these best experiences offer pure adrenaline while tearing down the straightaways in style.
HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE WITH CHAMPAGNE
For a serene yet thrilling experience, gift a sunrise hot air balloon ride over breathtaking landscapes, complete with a champagne toast. These gift ideas combine adventure with tranquility, making it a memory that will float on forever.
EXCLUSIVE COOKING CLASS WITH A PRIVATE CHEF
Help sharpen culinary skills by booking a one-on-one session with a professional chef. From perfecting the art of grilling to mastering pasta-making, this unique gift ends with a delicious meal that you will enjoy creating and eating.
GOLF PRO LESSON OR SIMULATOR EXPERIENCE
To a seasoned golfer or just a beginner, a session with a golf pro can take their game to the next level. Alternatively, book a high-tech golf simulator experience where your giftee can virtually play some of the world’s most famous courses.
ADVENTURE GLAMPING WEEKEND
For the outdoor lover, plan a glamping getaway where rugged nature meets luxury comfort. Set up in a cozy tent with modern amenities in a scenic location for a weekend of stargazing, campfires, and relaxation in nature.
SNOWMOBILE ADVENTURE TOUR
Gift him the thrill of zipping through snowy trails on a high-speed snowmobile. Guided tours take you deep into scenic winter landscapes, offering an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and nature. Perfect for anyone who loves winter sports and adventure.
CRAFT COCKTAIL MAKING WORKSHOP
PERSONALIZED FLYING LESSON
For the aspiring pilot, a flying lesson offers the rare chance to take control of an airplane under the guidance of a professional instructor. Learn the basics of flight and enjoy the oncein-a-lifetime feeling of flying above the clouds.
Send him on a journey into the art of mixology with a cocktail-making class. Led by expert bartenders, learn to mix, shake, and garnish like a pro—and walk away with recipes to recreate his new favorite drinks at home.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO QUEER GIFT GIVING: 2025 EDITION
BY MIKEY ROX
Some gifts scream practical, others whisper luxury, and a few flat-out blur the lines. From cocoa that feels ceremonial to a cologne that linger like a suggestive smirk, this year’s ultimate gift picks prove that thoughtful (and occasionally naughty) presents don’t have to be prosaic. Welcome to your holiday cheat sheet for festive tangibles that get noticed, remembered, and maybe even result in a peck of gratitude planted under the mistletoe. Consensually, of course.
Amber Glass Champagne Flutes
Pop the champs – but make it vintage. These tulip-shaped stunners in amber-tinted glass brings all the Gatsby vibes without the jazz-age drama. Whether you’re toasting a milestone or celebrating a Tuesday, their seven-ounce capacities and hand-wash-only care make ‘em as practical as they are pretty. Pair with a thoughtful bottle of bubs and gift with a glittering wink. $18, NantucketLooms.com
Disaster Playbook by Here Comes the Apocalypse
Because the end of the world shouldn’t be a solo act, this spiral-bound guide is your step-bystep roadmap to surviving and thriving when everything else goes sideways – which might be sooner than you think. Packed with checklists, drills, and a healthy dose of humor, it’s like a survival manual written by your most prepared (and slightly snarky) friend. Whether you’re prepping for a zombie apocalypse or, more realistically, REVOLUTION, this playbook’s got your back. $40, HereComesTheApocalypse.com
Wickless Vulva Candles
Bold, luxurious, and completely flamefree, CTOAN’s wickless candles melt from beneath on a warmer, releasing a subtle, sophisticated fragrances, like sandalwood or lavender. The vulva-shaped wax adds a playful, provocative element to any space –perfect for a bedroom, living room, or anywhere you want elegance with a muffy edge. A gift that celebrates form, intimacy and self-expression, no fire required. $39, CTOANCO.com
FEATURE
Villeroy & Boch Royal Classic Christmas Collection
Every meal is a mini celebration – with whimsy at every place setting – in Villeroy & Boch’s Royal Classic festive dinnerware collection that hits all the right notes. Made from premium German porcelain, it features nostalgic little toys, nutcrackers, and rocking horses in delicate relief, giving your holiday spread a playful but refined twist. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe, it’s luxe without the fuss. Gift a piece to a special someone or start a collection they’ll use (and show off) for years to come.
$22-$363, Villeroy-Boch.com
Greenworks Electric Lawnmower
You a ’hood queen who considers lawn care performance art – or just wants to rule the cul-de-sac in quiet, emission-free glory? Greenworks’ zero-turn electric mower has the muscle of a 24-horsepower gas engine but none of the fumes, drama or maintenance. Six 60V batteries and a 42-inch deck mean you can mow up to two-and-a-half acres on a single charge – then plug in, recharge, and ride again. It’s whisper-quiet, slope-ready, and smooth enough to make you wonder why you ever pushed anything besides your queer agenda. The perfect gift for the homeowner who loves sustainability, symmetry, and showing off their freshly striped yard like that fresh fade you get on Fridays. $5,000, GreenworksTools.com
Cipriani Prosecco Gift Set
Effervescent with stone-fruit sweetness and a touch of Italian flair, the Cipriani Bellini & Prosecco gift set brings brunch-level glamour to any day of the week. The Bellini blends rich white-peach purée with sparkling wine, while the dry ’secco keeps things crisp and celebratory. Pop a bottle, pour a flute, and suddenly winter weeknights feel like a party – even with your pants off.
$36, www.ciprianifood.com
Molekule Air Purifier
For the one who treats their space like a sanctuary (or just can’t stand sneezes midBrunch Club), the Molekule Air Pro is magic in motion. Covering up to 1,000 square feet, it doesn’t just capture allergens, VOCs, and smoke – it destroys them, leaving your air feeling luxury-clean. FDA-cleared as a Class II medical device, it’s serious science disguised as modern design. Gift it to your city-dwelling, pet-loving, candle-burning friend who likes their living room as pristine as their Instagram feed.
$1,015, Molekule.com
Woo(e)d Cologne
British GQ recently crowned Woo(e)d by ALTAIA the “Best Date Night Fragrance,” and honestly, they nailed it. Confident without being cocky – smoky gaïac and Atlas cedarwood grounds the room while supple leather and spicy cardamom do all the flirting – it’s a scent that lingers like good conversation and soft candlelight. Gift it to the one who always turns heads – or keep it for yourself and let them come to (and then on) you. $255, BeautyHabit.com
Lococo
Cocoa Kit
Keep the run-of-the-mill mugs in the cabinet this Christmas and pull out Lococo’s handcrafted Oaxacan versions that demand you slow down and sip like it matters. Paired with a wooden scoop, rechargeable frother, and Lococo’s signature spice hot-chocolate blend (vegan, gluten-free, with adaptogenic mushrooms), this holiday kit turns Mexicocoa into a mini ritual you’ll look forward to. Perfect for anyone who loves a little indulgence with a side of ¡A huevo! energy. $62, LococoMagic.com
Shackle Lock Necklace
Manta Sleep Mask
Total blackout, zero pressure on the eyes, and Bluetooth speakers built right into the straps, this ain’t your mama’s sleep mask –but it could be. The Manta SOUND sleep mask features C-shaped eye cups that block every hint of light while ultra-thin speakers deliver your favorite white noise, meditation, or late-night playlist straight to your ears. With 24-hour battery life, breathable fabric, and easy-to-adjust sound, it turns any bed (or airplane seat) into a five-star sleep suite. Perfect for anyone who treats shut eye like an art form (or just wants to escape their roommate’s late-night bingin’ and/or bangin’). $159, MantaSleep.com
Turn the industrial-chic vibe of a shackle into a sleek statement. Mi Tesoro’s platinum-plated stainless-steel necklace sits on an 18-inch wheat chain, featuring a shackle-style latch pendant that’s waterproof, tarnishfree, and totally fuss-les. Beyond style, it nods to a classic gesture in the queer leather community: replacing a traditional Master lock with something elegant to quietly signal belonging to someone special. Wear it solo for a minimalist edge or layer it like you mean it, either way this piece locks in both your look and your intentions. $90, MiTesoroJewelry.com
Parkside Flask Mojave Edition
Wine nights get a desert glow-up with Parkside’s limitededition 750-milliliter all-in-one flask draped in sun-washed bronze and badland hues like sage, sand, and terracotta –with magnetic stemless tumblers that snap on for effortless shareability. It keeps your vino chilled for 24 hours, pours without drips (no tears for spilled rosé, please), and even lets you laser-engrave your own mantra or inside joke. Perfect for picnics, surprise rooftop clinks, or gifting to your favorite wine (or desert) rat. $149, HighCampFlasks.com
Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has published in more than 100 outlets across the world. Connect with he/him on Instagram @mikeyroxtravels
LGBTQ people are among the many subgroups of Americans known to experience high rates of food insecurity.*
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert provides food for 30,000+ people annually.
*The Williams Institute
BOOK REVIEW ALWAYS OVERBOOKED, HOLIDAY EDITION
BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER
Santa will be very relieved.
You’ve taken most of the burden off him by making a list and checking it twice on his behalf. The gift-buying in your house is almost done – except for those few people for whom are just so darn hard to buy. So, what do you give to the person who has (almost) everything? You give them a good book, like maybe one of these….
FICTION
The giftee who loves multigenerational plots, “Kaplan’s Pilot” by Jason Diamond (Flatiron Books) might be their favorite gift this year. It’s the story of a man who returns home to care for his dying mother, but mother and son have kept secrets for far too long. When the man learns a few surprising truths about his ancestry, it could change the relationship he has with his mother forever.
For the person on your list who loves a charming little novel, wrap up “The Peculiar Gift of July” by Ashley Ream (Dutton). It’s the story of an orphan who goes to live with a cousin who barely knows the girl and doesn’t really want her. But July, the child, has a little magic up her sleeve, and what happens will dazzle your giftee.
MYSTERIES
Someone on your gift list loves mysteries with a good scare in them, and “The Whistler” by Nick Medina (Berkley) could make the perfect gift. It’s the story of Henry Hotard, who was the recent victim of a tragedy and now finds himself back on the rez in his grandparents’ care. It’s not optimal – and neither is the thing that’s stalking him.
What would your mystery-loving giftee like better than a good whodunit? How about “What About the Bodies” by Ken Jaworowski (Atlantic Crime), the twisty story of a town in Pennsylvania where a single mother, an autistic man, and an up-and-coming musician collide in a dangerous situation that’ll have everyone on the edge of their Christmas seat.
GENERAL NONFICTION
For the politics-watcher, “The Improbably Victoria Woodhull” by Eden Colllinsworth (Doubleday) will be a nice surprise gift. It’s about the first woman to run for President, but that’s not the only historical thing Woodhull did with her life. Wrap it up with a bookmark and let your giftee be astounded. If there’s an activist on your list – someone who’s concerned with the justice system, “The Volunteer” by Gianna Toboni (Atria) will be an absorbing gift. It’s the story of Scott Dozier, who was sent to death row in Nevada in 2007. He didn’t fight to get off death row; in fact, what he fought for was that his sentence be hastened. Don’t bother to wrap this up with a bookmark; your giftee won’t need one.
How’s this for fun? “Super Visible: The Story of the Women of Marvel Comics” by Margaret Stohl with Jeanine Schaefer and Judith Stephens (Gallery Books). It’s a good, long look (with pictures!) at the women who helped shape Marvel Comics into the powerhouse you know. Wrap it up with another fan favorite: “Welcome to the Family” by Barry Hertz (Grand Central), a book that’s everything about the Fast & Furious movie franchise and why we love it so much.
HISTORY
For the person on your list who wants to know more about slavery, “Freedom Ship” by Marcus Rediker (Viking) is a book for you to wrap up. It’s about a little-known part of the Underground Railroad, the part of the passageway that went over water, over the sea. If your giftee is a scholar of Black history, in particular, this will be a very welcome present.
The person on your gift list who loves reading about Jewish history will be glad to see “Melting Point” by Rachel Cockerell (Farrar, Straus & Giroux), the story of a grand plan to create a Jewish community in Texas in 1907. What happened after they arrived in American from Russia is a can’t-miss tale.
MEMOIR and BIOGRAPHY
For the giftee on your list who loves to laugh, wrap up “In My Remaining Years” by Jean Grae (Flatiron Books). It’s part memoir, part comedy, a look back at the late-last-century, part how-did-youget-to-middle-age-already? and all fun.
Your music lover won’t want to open any other gifts if you give “Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur” by Jeff Pearlman (Mariner Books). It’s the story of the life, death,
and everything in-between about this iconic performer, including the mythology that he left behind. Has it been three decades since Tupac died? It has, but your music lover never forgets. Wrap it up with “Point Blank (Quick Studies)” by Bob Dylan, text by Eddie Gorodetsky, Lucy Sante, and Jackie Hamilton (Simon & Schuster), a book of Dylan’s drawings and artwork. This is a very nice coffeetable size book that will be absolutely perfect for fans of the great singer and for folks who love art.
BOOK REVIEW
TRUE CRIME
The CSI lover on your list will be so happy to open the package that contains “The Monsters We Make: Murder, Obsession, and the Rise of Criminal Profiling” by Rachel Corbett (W.W. Norton), a book about how we’ve caught killers, from Victorian times to now.
SCIENCE
Is there a person on your gift list who likes to argue? Or hold a grudge – and admits it? Then “The Science of Revenge” by James Kimmel, Jr., JD (Harmony Books) might be a great gift. Did you know that anger and the need for vengeance are addictions? Yep, that’s what this author says, and he tells your giftee how to stop it.
LGBTQ FICTION
For the mystery lover who wants something different, try “Crime Ink: Iconic,” edited by John Copenhaver and Salem West (Bywater Books), a collection of short stories inspired by “queer legends” and allies you know. Psychological thrillers, creepy crime, cozies, they’re here.
Novel lovers will want to curl up this winter with “Middle Spoon” by Alejandro Varela (Viking), a book about a man who appears to have it all, until his heart is broken and the fix for it is one, he doesn’t quite understand and neither does anyone he loves.
LGBTQ NONFICTION
For the young man who’s struggling with issues of gender, “Before
They Were Men” by Jacob Tobia (Harmony Books) might be a good gift this year. These essays on manhood in today’s world works to widen our conversations on the role politics and feminism play in understanding masculinity and how it’s time we open our minds.
If there’s someone on your gift list who had a tough growing-up (didn’t we all?), then wrap up “I’m Prancing as Fast as I Can” by Jon Kinnally (Permuted Press / Simon & Schuster). Kinally was once an awkward kid, but he grew up to be a writer for TV shows you’ll recognize. You can’t go wrong gifting a story like that. Better idea: wrap it up with “So Gay for You: Friendship, Found Family, & The Show That Started It All” by Leisha Hailey & Kate Moennig (St. Martin’s Press), a book about a little TV show that launched a BFF-ship.
Who doesn’t have a giftee who loves music? You sure do, so wrap up “The Secret Public: How Music Moved Queer Culture from the Margins to the Mainstream” by Jon Savage (Liveright). Nobody has to tell your giftee that queer folk left their mark on music, but they’ll love reading the stories in this book and knowing what they didn’t know.
Wrap it up with “Man Made: Searching for Dads, Daddies, Father Figures, and Fatherhood” by Steve Majors (University of Wisconsin Press), a book about the journey to become a man, be a gay man, and to become a father.
HEALTH
“The Stronger Sex” by Starre Vartan (Seal Press), a scientific
look at the power and strength of the female body, and how your giftee can do a lot more than she thinks she can…
The caregiver (or potential caregiver) on your gift list will appreciate finding “The Good Death: A Guide for Supporting Your Loved One Through the End of Life” by Suzanne B. O’Brien, RN (Little, Brown Spark). O’Brien is the founder of the Doulagivers Institute, and she has plenty of help to offer.
No doubt, there’s someone on your gift list who wants to stave off any effects of getting older. That’s why you should wrap up “The Ageless Brain: How to Sharpen and Protect Your Mind for a Lifetime” by Dale E. Bredesen, MD (Flatiron Books). Here, they’ll read about new, cutting-edge science and what can be done to keep their noggin in tip-top shape.
BUSINESS
For your business-minded giftee, a little inspiration is surely always welcome, which is why wrapping up “Delivering the Wow” by Richard Fain (Fast Company Press), a book about the culture in your business and how to make it work good, best, better for you and your customers.
If there’s an investor on your gift list, or someone who likes making money, then give “How to Make Money in Any Market” by Jim Cramer (Simon and Schuster). Yes, that Jim Cramer, who can help your giftee understand how to make their money grow now and next year, in up-markets and down ones
DAPHEALTH
THE KEEPERS OF THE FLAME
BY EDWARD KIMBLE
To fully understand the AIDS generation, here’s a message from those who survived to those who may not know.
Dear young LGBTQ+ community:
When you see us — the older gay men in our 60s and 70s — you might wonder why we sometimes seem distant, why we carry ourselves with a particular kind of caution, or why our eyes hold shadows you can’t quite understand. Let us tell you about a time you’ve only read about in history books, but which lives in our bodies and memories every single day.
The Before Times
In the 1970s, we were like you. We were young, fearless, and
full of dreams. We had just begun to taste freedom after centuries of hiding. Stonewall had happened, gay liberation was blooming, and for the first time in history, we could imagine a future where we didn’t have to live in shame.
We formed families of choice — groups of friends who became brothers, lovers, confidants. We had thriving communities from coast to coast — the Castro in San Francisco, the Village in New York, West Hollywood, Fire Island, Provincetown, South Beach. We danced, we loved, we planned futures together. We joked about growing old as fabulous old queens, rocking on porches and telling stories about the wild times.
We thought we were unstoppable. We thought the party would never end.
The Plague Years
Then came the 1980s, and with it, a plague that had no name at first. It started as whispers — someone looking thin, strange purple spots, a cough that wouldn’t go away. Then it became a roar that drowned out everything else.
One by one, our chosen families began to disappear. Not from accidents or old age, but from a mysterious illness that seemed to target us specifically. The government ignored us. The media blamed us. Religious leaders called it God’s punishment. Even our own families often turned away.
We watched our lovers, our best friends, our chosen brothers waste away in hospital rooms where nurses were afraid to touch them. We held their hands as they died, often becoming their widowers at 25, 30, 35. We scattered ashes of men who should have lived to see their grandchildren.
Most of us didn’t just lose one or two friends. We lost dozens. Entire social circles. Whole communities. Many survivors are the last ones standing from their groups of friends, their chosen families.
Some lost everyone they came out with, everyone they grew up with in the community.
The Trauma That Remains
We who survived carry what’s called “survivor’s guilt.” We live with PTSD from watching so many people we loved die horrible deaths. We have panic attacks triggered by memories of hospital rooms and memorial services. We struggle with depression, anxiety, and a profound loneliness that’s hard to describe.
Many of us have difficulty forming new close relationships because we learned that loving someone means preparing to lose them. We’re hypervigilant about health symptoms. We sometimes seem overly cautious about risky behavior because we lived through a time when a single decision could mean death.
We often feel like dinosaurs, relics from a time that younger people can’t understand. The vibrant communities we helped build were decimated, and the new communities that grew up in their place are full of people who didn’t live through what we lived through.
DAPHEALTH
What We Need You to Know
We are not just history book footnotes. We are your elders, carrying the memories of your community’s near-extinction and miraculous survival.
Our caution comes from love, not fear. When we worry about hookup apps or party drugs, it’s because we’ve seen what can happen when a community lets its guard down.
We are living libraries. We remember the before times, the during times, and the slow, painful after times. We carry the stories of thousands of people who didn’t live to tell their own.
We are often alone in ways you might not understand. Many of us never had children because we were too busy caring for the dying. Our chosen families were decimated. Dating at 65 when most of your peer group is dead is a special kind of challenge.
We need connection. When you see us at Pride, at community events, or just in the world, know that a simple “hello” or acknowledgment can mean everything to someone who often feels invisible.
We are not asking for pity, but for understanding. And perhaps, for you to help us ensure that the people we lost are not forgotten.
The Gift We Give You
Because of what we endured, you live in a different world. You have marriage equality, anti-discrimination protections, medical advances that make HIV a manageable condition rather than a death sentence. You have representation in media, politics, and culture that we could never have imagined.
You get to be young and gay without the sword of Damocles hanging over your heads. You get to plan futures that we never thought possible. You get to be boring, ordinary, and safe in ways we never were.
This is our gift to you, paid for with the lives of our friends, our lovers, our chosen families.
Remember Them
When you see us at events, when you pass us on the street, when you encounter us in gay spaces, remember that we are the keepers of the flame. We carry the memories of a generation that was nearly wiped out. We are the witnesses to both the worst and most beautiful parts of LGBTQ+ history.
Their names are fading from memory. Their faces exist only in old photos. But their love, their courage, their insistence on living authentically even in the face of death — that lives on in every freedom you enjoy today.
What is remembered lives.
— From those who survived, with love and hope for your future
Edward Kimble, 67, is a musician, poet, philosopher, and writer living in New Hope, Pennsylvania — a town that has been a welcoming haven for the LGBTQ+ community for generations. He lived through the AIDS crisis and witnessed the devastating loss of an entire generation of gay men. He is also a widower who lost Eric, his husband of 40 years, three and a half years ago. He was moved to write this article after discovering that some younger gay men have little to no knowledge of the history that shaped the community they’ve inherited. Through his words, he hopes to bridge the generational divide and ensure the memories, struggles, and resilience of those who came before are never forgotten.
Photo Captions:
Kimble Image 1: Edward Kimble, age 6, in Beverly, New Jersey, in 1964.
Kimble Image 2: Edward Kimble and his husband Eric in Beverly, New Jersey, in 1983.
Kimble Image 3: Edward Kimble and his husband Eric at gay bar The Cub Room in New Hope, Pennsylvania, in 2017.
Kimble Image 4: Edward Kimble (right) with his friend Jason at restaurant Havana’s in New Hope, Pennsylvania, in 2024.
All images courtesy of the author.
12 HOLIDAY WINES
Bold California Cabernet
Drawbridge 2024 (x2)
Double-Gold Aussie Favorite Dark Corner 2024 (x2)
Our experts handpicked this highly acclaimed collection to pair perfectly this holiday season. Uncork 12 bottles with bonus gifts for just $79.99 (plus shipping and tax) as your introduction to the Omaha Steaks Wine Club – saving you $155. Then, look forward to 12 new selections every three months and enjoy a $30 Omaha Steaks E-Reward Card with each future club case. You’ll also save 10% on every 12+ bottle purchase and get free delivery every time you order. There’s no commitment to continue and every bottle comes with our 100% guarantee.
90-Pt Spanish Gran Selección Ermita de San Lorenzo 2018 (x1)
94-Pt Italian Primitivo
Pillastro Primitivo 2022 (x1)
Rich Portuguese Blockbuster Lobo e Falcão 2024 (x1)
Gold-Medal Rhône Star Benedictus de Vatican 2024 (x1)
Our “House Red”
Omaha Steaks 1917 Red 2023 (x1)
Glory-Vintage Bordeaux
Château Vieil Orme 2020 (x1)
95-Pt Super Tuscan Saracosa 2024 (x2)
NEW YEAR’S EVE, PALM SPRINGS STYLE
Moulin Rouge New Year’s Eve
Canopy Wine Lounge
175 N Palm Canyon Dr Suite 150, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Ring in 2026 in style at Canopy Wine Lounge’s Moulin Rouge
New Year’s Eve Party! This isn’t your typical night out — it’s a glamorous, high-energy celebration inspired by the lavish, playful spirit of the Moulin Rouge. www.canopywinelounge.com
Midnight in Manhattan
PS Underground
1700 S Camino Real, Ste. #2 Palm Springs, CA 92262
The night will shimmer with the sultry spirit of a timeless New York Jazz club, with stories and songs to ring in a very happy 2026. Listen to Tod Macofsky, Kari Kirkland, Francesca Amari, and Wayne Abravanel as they take the stage to perform their captivating songs in celebration of the New York jazz and Broadway scenes. Love the festivities, but want to be in bed before 12 am? They will have a live countdown to the iconic ball drop at midnight on East Coast time, complete with a champagne toast! $249 pp www.psunderground.com
The Journals of Adam & Eve
The Plaza Theatre - 128 S Palm Canyon Drive
The Journals of Adam & Eve, a new comedy by Ed. Weinberger (9-time Emmy Award winner) is a delightful look at the world’s first love story. Follow along from Eden to Exile, from their first date to twilight years, from bachelor and bachelorette to becoming the world’s first parents. Experience this legendary couple up close when TV legends Hal Linden (“Barney Miller”) and Sally Struthers (“All in the Family”) take the legendary Plaza stage for an unforgettable night. www.palmspringsplazatheatre.com
Oscar’s New Year’s Eve
125 E Tahquitz Road
Drop The Ball with drag superstars Sherry Vine, Jackie Beat, Billy L’Amour, and Candace Cayne. The show is outside, so dress accordingly. First show at 6 pm (doors open at 5 pm) and Second show at 10 pm (doors open at 9 pm) www.oscarspalmsprings.com
Agua Caliente Casino
New Year’s Eve Outdoor Celebration with Ben Mallare Band
Ben Mallare Band is an electrifying, high-octane spectacle delivering a non-stop, customized performance that feels more like a Super Bowl Halftime Show. This elite collective of high-energy, supremely talented singers, musicians, and dancers has set dance floors ablaze for exclusive events worldwide.
Prepare to be mesmerized by their dynamic vocalists, worldclass instrumentalists, and infectious stage presence. The Ben Mallare Band curates an unforgettable experience, flawlessly blending massive hits across genres and decades to keep the party pulsing until the ball drops. www.aguacalientecasinos.com
One Eleven Bar 2026 New Year’s Eve Celebration 67555 East Palm Canyon Drive
Join all your favorite one eleven bar entertainers for a 8pm and midnight champagne toast, lite bites and a fabulous show to bring in 2026! www.oneelevenbar.com
STUDIO 2025 Glam Disco New Years Eve Party Commune | Ace Hotel Palm Springs
Step into the sparkle and soul of a new era as Ace Hotel Palm Springs transforms into Studio 2025—a glam-disco celebration ! DJ Sean Patrick — Disco & Glam All Night 9 PM-1 AM Ace Hotel Commune. A curated soundtrack of Studio 54 classics, modern disco edits, dance floor anthems, and glitter-drenched glam.3 Drink Tickets and Champagne Midnight Toast
Receive a welcome cocktail and Get 3 drink tickets and a champagne for the midnight toast ( beer, wine, spirits + specialty cocktails designed exclusively for Studio 2025 available.) Party Favors For All Guests. Kings Highway Diner, get 20% off in the restaurant with admission to party. Flashy accessories, face gems, glitter, boas, metallic makeup elements, and other glam add-ons for guests to elevate their look. Guests show off their most iconic disco looks for a chance to win a night at the hotel or a deluxe cabana and be crowned the Studio 2025 Style Icon of the Year. A shimmering countdown moment with confetti cannons to welcome 2026 in full disco style. www.acehotel.com
Hunters Palm Springs
The best dance club in the desert is throwing a spectacular New Year’s Eve bash, no cover, Champagne bottle specials, free champagne toast and of course a balloon drop at midnight. www.huntersnightclubs.com
MODERNISM WEEK TO HOLD ONLINE AUCTION DECEMBER 6 – 14, 2025
Online Bidding Event Features More Than 100 Unique Architectural Experiences, Items, Exclusive VIP Modernism Week Event Tickets, and Much More.
Modernism Week announced that it will again offer an exciting online auction of unique and compelling experiences and intriguing and distinctive items just in time for the holiday season. The online bidding event, called the ‘Best of Modernism - Holiday Edition” Auction, will run 8 days from December 6-14, 2025, and will feature more than 100 unique architectural experiences, exclusive VIP Modernism Week event tickets and experiences packages, and uncommon items not typically available to the public. Hopeful bidders may set up an account on the auction page and submit bids during the event. The winners will be announced after bidding concludes. The ‘Best of Modernism - Holiday Edition’ Auction will take place at the modernismweek.com web site starting Saturday December 6, 2025, at 12 PM PST. Proceeds from auction sales support Modernism Week, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
“Modernists have begun to appreciate that Modernism Week’s annual online auction offers one-of-a-kind exclusive architectural experiences and unique products they would not be able to find anywhere else,” said Mark Davis, Modernism Week’s Lecture, Travel and Auction Producer, who is organizing the auction. “This is the 5th year of the auction, and it will be the biggest and most exciting
auction yet. We have secured a record number of very exciting items and experiences, including some truly exceptional architectural surprises. There is something for everyone in every price range, including those hard-to-please Modernists on your holiday shopping list, who can receive these items in time for holiday giving.”
The auction will conclude Sunday December 14 at 12 Noon PST. Winning bidders will be notified soon after the auction closes. For more information visit www.modernismweek.com
Healthy Living!
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
DECEMBER
Provider Referral
Need assistance finding a doctor or other provider? Call 760.568.1234
Blood Drive
W, Dec 3, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 844.380.5220.
Festive Foods for Managing Diabetes
W, Dec 10, noon to 1 p.m.
Tracy Foster, BSN, RN, and Marielena Cid, MSN, RN, CDCES
Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.
Caring for the Caregiver: Finding Strength, Balance and Support
Selby Dunham Community Lecture Series
TH, Dec 11, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Alison Mayer Sachs, MSW, LMSW, OSW-C, FAOSW
Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3798.
Bariatric Surgery: Weigh the Pros and Cons
SA, Dec 13, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Bobby Bhasker-Rao, MD
Board Certified in General Surgery
Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3796.
Bariatric Surgery: Weigh the Pros and Cons
TU, Dec 16, 8:15 to 9:30 a.m.
Jorge A. Almodovar, MD
Board Certified in General Surgery
Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3796
Total Hip Replacement: What’s the Right Approach? TU, Dec 16, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
David Christian, MD
Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.
Painful Sex Demystified: Bringing Intimacy Back W, Dec 17, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Willy Quach, PT Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.
SUPPORT GROUPS
For information or registration, call the number listed, or visit EisenhowerHealth.org/SupportGroups.
Adults Molested as Children
Every TH, 4 to 5 p.m.
To register, call 760.340.2336.
Bariatric Surgery
Second M of month, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
To register, call 760.834.3796.
Breast Cancer Newly Diagnosed and Active Treatment
Every W, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
To register, call 760.834.3798.
Breast Cancer Survivors
First and Third F of month
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
To register, call 760.834.3798
Caregiver Support
Second and Fourth TH, 4 to 5 p.m.
To register, call 760.834.3798
Grupo Fortaleza
Segundo y cuarto viernes del mes, 11 a.m. a mediodía
Para registrarse, llame 310.314.2555.
Gynecologic Oncology
Fourth W of month, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
To register, call 760.834.3798
Mended Hearts
Second TH of month
6 to 8 p.m., Oct to Jun
To register, call 760.501.5096.
Myeloma
First TH of month, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. To register, call 760.834.3798.
Ostomy
First TH of month, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. To register, call 760.837.8601.
Parent Support
Every TU, 10 to 11:30 a.m. For information, call 760.773.2096.
Prostate Cancer
First and third M of month4 to 5 p.m. To register, call 760.834.3798.
Diabetes: Tools, Tricks and Technologies
Third TU of month
3 to 4:30 p.m., Oct to Jun To register, call 760.773.1403
Annenberg Health Sciences Building
Eisenhower Family Birth Center
Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center
Joslyn Center, Palm Desert
Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center
Eisenhower George and Julia Argyros Health Center
Refreshments or meal available
Virtual option
Phone option
A Healthier Life is in Your Hands
BEHIND THE CROWN PAGEANT QUEENS SHINES A SPOTLIGHT ON SISTERHOOD, LEGACY, AND THE ART OF DRAG
BY SHANE GALLAGHER
This Fall, drag royalty takes center stage in a way audiences have never seen before. Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown, a groundbreaking new 12-episode docuseries, will stream its first ten episodes this season and it’s already being hailed as a love letter to drag, legacy, and community. Directed by Travis Stancil, the series follows ten legendary national titleholders who move into a lavish South Florida mansion to prepare for the ultimate crown: “The Queen of Drag,” along with a $50,000 cash prize.
But as Stancil makes clear, Pageant Queens is much more than a competition. “From the first episode, viewers see that these queens are here to share what drag truly means to them,” he explains. “It’s an emotional journey that reveals their struggles, triumphs, and untold stories. We’re shining light on the experiences that shaped this art form.”
Unlike traditional drag reality competitions, Pageant Queens breaks the mold. There are no eliminations or weekly dismissals. Instead, the show centers on collaboration, storytelling, and sisterhood. The queens live together, form chosen-family bonds, and even design their own pageant by voting on everything from judges to scoring systems and final performances.
“That strategic layer keeps things exciting,” Stancil says. “But what makes the series especially powerful is that it’s rooted in truth. We showcase how drag queens truly live between their brunch shows and nightlife performances. We offer a real behind-thescenes experience.”
And the cast is nothing short of iconic. Together, the ten queens featured in Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown hold more than thirty-eight national titles across some of the most prestigious drag systems in existence: Miss Continental, Miss Gay USofA, Entertainer of the Year, Miss Black Universe, Miss Black America, Miss Glamorous, and Miss Gay America, among others.
MUSTSEE
The lineup reads like a hall of fame: Kennedy Davenport of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame; Texas powerhouse Layla Larue, known for her fierce Missy Elliott impersonations; Laguna Beach’s beloved “Mother Gangster,” Shae Shae Lareese; Jacksonville’s “Bazooka Girl,” A’zsia Dupree; Tonica E. Cavalli, the self-proclaimed “Diamond of the South”; Parisian beauty Joan Jullian, “The Amazon Beauty”; Raleigh’s Tatiyanna Voche; America’s sweetheart, Tiffany T. Hunter; Alexis Gabrielle Sherrington, one of the most decorated entertainers in drag history; and Buff Faye, a former Entertainer of the Year known for her humor and authenticity.
Together, they represent decades of artistry and evolution within drag culture. “These women are more than competitors; they are the architects of an entire art form,” Stancil emphasizes.
The show’s setting adds another layer of meaning. Filmed across Miami, Fort Lauderdale, South Beach, Wilton Manors, and Lauderhill, Pageant Queens places its queens squarely within the heart of Florida; a state that has, in recent years, been at the center of national conversations about LGBTQ+ visibility and rights.
ALEXIS GABRIELLE SHARRINGTON
AZSIA DUPREE
BUFF FAYE
“We considered filming in a more drag-friendly location, but we decided that staying in Florida would be more powerful,” Stancil explains. “You can’t create change by staying in safe spaces. By shining bright here, we send a message of perseverance, visibility, and hope.”
That commitment to authenticity runs through every frame. Over the course of ten episodes, viewers witness raw conversations about identity, family, and resilience: themes that resonate deeply in a post-pandemic world where queer spaces and performers continue to reclaim their voices.
Though the $50,000 prize adds a competitive edge, Stancil insists that the true reward lies elsewhere. “The ladies are not only fighting to win,” he says. “They are fighting for respect, to make their mark in history, and for their pageantry to be recognized as the best in the world.”
With its powerful storytelling, star-studded cast, and message of unity, Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown promises to be one of the season’s most talked-about new series, a dazzling celebration of drag’s legacy and a heartfelt reminder of the artistry that lies beneath the makeup and rhinestones.
JOAN JULLIAN
KENNEDY DAVENPORT
LAYLA LARUE
MUSTSEE
As Stancil reflects, “This is just the beginning. We’re building something bigger than a show. We’re building a legacy — one crown at a time.”
The first ten episodes of Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown begin streaming this Fall on YouTube. The two-part finale will follow soon after.
SHANE SHAE LAREESE TATIYANNA VOCHE
TIFFANY T HUNTER
TONICA CAVALLI
Q&A WINTER GARLAND DEBBIE WILEMAN DAZZLES IN “JUDY GARLAND: WE NEED A LITTLE CHRISTMAS”
BY JOHN STEIN
The celebrated Judy Garland tribute artist Debbie Wileman is spreading holiday cheer nationwide with her dazzling new concert experience, Judy Garland – We Need a Little Christmas. Produced by Scott Stander, the festive tour brings Wileman’s extraordinary talent to nine cities across the U.S., including San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, and to Palm Springs on December 26.
Blending storytelling, humor, and holiday magic, Judy Garland – We Need a Little Christmas showcases Wileman’s uncanny ability to capture the voice and spirit of the legendary Judy Garland, taking audiences on a nostalgic and heartwarming journey through the golden age of Hollywood wrapped in seasonal splendor.
Coinciding with the tour is Wileman’s acclaimed holiday album, A Christmas Garland, arranged by Grammy Award winner Steve Orich (Jersey Boys). The album imagines the Christmas record Judy herself never got to make, featuring timeless standards like “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” alongside modern classics such as Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and Wham!’s “Last Christmas” - all reimagined in Garland’s signature style.
We caught up with Ms. Wileman from her home in London to talk about channeling Judy, her favorite holiday memories, and the joy of keeping Garland’s spirit alive.
What is it about Judy Garland that makes her spirit feel so perfectly at home during the holiday season?
Debbie Wileman: Her beautiful, rich, warm voice. Also, the fact that she recorded some lovely Christmas songs that give us that warm nostalgic feeling of Christmases past and of times gone by.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas has become one of the most enduring holiday classics of all time.
Debbie Wileman: Judy’s version is the best, not only because it was the original version, but because it was written especially for her in the film Meet Me in St Louis. In the film, she sings it to a child. It was amazing for me to re-record the track singing to that same child, but in 2025! Having Margaret O’Brien, the original Tootie be a part of my recording was just magical.
Your new album imagines the Christmas record Judy herself never got to make.
Debbie Wileman: I tried my best to think of Christmas songs that I felt would suit Judy’s style! It was fun to go through all my Christmas favorites and “try them out” in Judy’s voice. Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas” is a particular stand-out. It has that perfect Judytype motif of battling against the odds and trying to come through.
DEBBIE WILEMAN BY HERNAN RODRIGUEZ
DEBBIE WILEMAN BY HERNAN RODRIGUEZ
Q&A
Is there a particular song on the album that’s especially meaningful to you?
Debbie Wileman: Absolutely. I was so delighted to get the chance to record “After the Holidays” for the album because it is a song that Judy, unfortunately, never got to do. She only sang it once: live on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. It’s one of the most beautiful, heart wrenching Christmas songs ever! I’ve loved it since I first heard it as a teenager but the reason it has an extra special place in my heart is that I had become friends with the man who wrote it, John Meyer. He was engaged to be married to Judy! I was devastated when he passed away two years ago. It was his wish that I record the songs, so singing and performing his work is extra special to me.
You’re performing all over the country this season on the Judy Garland: We Need a Little Christmas tour. What can fans expect from the show?
There will be a mixture of songs, stories and possibly a secret special guest or two!
How do you think Judy would want fans to celebrate her legacy this holiday season?
From everything I’ve heard about Judy from people who knew her, she was a very loving person and a very fun and witty person, so I imagine she’d want everyone to enjoy themselves! Be with friends or family and have a laugh. There’s actually a beautiful quote from her that says it perfectly: “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could all be a little more gentle with each other? And a little more loving? Have a little more empathy… and maybe next year at this time we’d like each other a little bit more.”
Debbie Wileman performs Judy Garland – We Need a Little Christmas at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre on December 26. For tickets, visit TheStanderGroup.com
DEBBIE WILEMAN BY GABRIEL GOLDERG
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