The Standard Magazine

WHI TE PAR T Y

2015 PALM SPRINGS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Leann Rimes

GAY DADS ITALIAN STYLE

APRIL, 2015 VOLUME 3 ISSUE 4 THESTANDARDPS.COM

CONTENTS VOLUME 3, ISSUE 4

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Volume 3 Issue 4 COVER WHITE PARTY 2015 CELEBRITY Q & A LEANN RIMES FEATURE GAY FATHERHOOD IN THE LAND OF DOLCE & GABBANA BEAT BOX DANCE BEATS SWING INTO ACTION EVENT AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY GALA FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD

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COMMENTARY

The Standard Magazine 1111 Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760-831-4869 Nino Eilets Publisher Luciano McNulty Editor Maya Kalabic Art Director Photographer David A. Lee Contributors Chris Astrala, Trent Blanchard, Chris Heritage, Justin Long, Jimmy Newsum, Dennis Mason, Ryan Porter, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Ken Toth & Rick Zbur www.thestandardps.com Editorial Credits : BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation & Project Publicity 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

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COVER|WP

WHITE PARTY 2015 PALM SPRINGS

An international showcase, White Party Palm Springs has become synonymous with setting the trends that other events follow.

White Party producer, Jeffrey Sanker has planned a non-stop cavalcade of indoor and outdoor parties that will be nothing short of electrifying.

Superstars like Lady Gaga, Ke$ha, and Icona Pop have launched their careers at White Party. Keeping ahead of the curve, Sanker will again present the best, new cutting-edge talent, along with an epic, superstar-headlining performer.

This year, White Party Ambassador, Big Brother and Rock of Ages star Frankie Grande, along with tens of thousands of sexy men

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from all over the globe will ascend upon White Party Palm Springs happening April 24-27, 2015.

Upon being named White Party Ambassador, Grande said, “As a proud member of the LGBT community, being chosen as a White Party Ambassador is such an honor. I was blown away by the event last year and am excited to come back again this year to host the White Carpet arrivals and represent my community.”

Joining Grande on the White Carpet will be international fashion icon and star of E! Entertainment’s “Fashion Police’ Kelly Osbourne as the 2015 “Queen of White Party.”

Osbourne will be officially crowned at a special ceremony

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happening when she co-hosts the White Carpet arrivals.

Said Sanker, “With her haute couture style and outspoken personality, Kelly is a perfect fit as Queen of White Party. She will be on patrol for any fashion violations, so everyone make sure you’re ‘White Carpet Ready’ when you arrive Saturday night.” Adding, “This will be a weekend to remember for both her and all our White Party attendees!”

“To be crowned Queen of the White Party in a room full of queens is a dream come true,” states HM the Queen Kelly Osbourne.

“I’ve been blessed my entire life to be surrounded by members of the LGBT family who support me as I support them. I am beyond thrilled and honored; now let’s dance!”

THINGS JUST GOT EASY White Party has been given a high tech upgrade with “fast track” scanned wristband entry and paperless ticketing, as well as the new White Party smartphone app. This will reduce time in line and provide faster entry to all events. We’re also adding twice the number of bar stations for the fastest possible service EVENTS For its all-new Saturday event, White Party will completely take over Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs Water Park, offering the entire 21acre oasis exclusively for attendees. To make this aquatic experience complete, Sanker will bring in a custom stage and sound system to

pump the grooves from DJ Gustavo Scorpio and DJ Grind throughout the park. Complimentary round-trip shuttle service will run continuously from the Renaissance Hotel. Ride all the slides (including the incredible new Flow Rider) or lay out and relax by the wave pool. Reserve one of 30 private poolside cabanas for you and 10 to 20 of your friends to get full view of all the wild festivities. This is White Party 2015’s only event for ages 18 and over and it will sell out.

Get ready to show some skin at the ADDICTED TO WHITE Underwear Party. Presented on Friday night by “Addicted,” from the internationally acclaimed ES Collection, this sexy party will sizzle like never before, fueled by the sounds of DJ Kitty Glitter – direct from down under, along with Spanish DJ and remix producer sensation Dani Toro and South Beach’s musical mastermind, DJ Kidd Madonny!

For those who can’t get enough Aussies, DJ Dan Slater, who blew up after winning the recent Sydney Mardi Gras DJ Spin-Off Competition, will hit the decks poolside at Saturday’s Renaissance Hotel Splash Pool Party to bring his own brand of musical “thunder from down under” along with DJ Casey Alva.

Later that night at the White Party main event, arm yourself for our own special Spanish-American invasion as American hit machine DJ/Producer Chris Cox leads the armada, followed by the beefy Barcelona beats of DJ/Producer Nacho Chapado, in his White Party debut. The evening culminates when Spanish DJ/Producer duo Chus and Ceballos ignite the Palm Springs Convention Center with an explosion of their signature “Iberican Sound.” Like in previous years,

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COVER|WP rumors are buzzing around about whom Saturday Night’s main event top-secret performer will be this year. No one will know for sure unless you go to the event.

Living DJ legends Ralphi Rosario, Wayne G., and yet another Aussie, Paul Goodyear, stand ready to work their sonic wizardry on Sunday at the Largest Outdoor T Dance in the World! Grammy Award winning Leann Rimes (check out her interview in this issue of The Standard Magazine) will take the stage on Sunday for a performance that should not be missed. Whether you’re out on the dance floor or taking it all in from the top of the world-famous White Party Ferris Wheels, there’s no shortage of eye candy or spectacular views. As the sun sets into evening, all eyes will be on the sky for the legendary T Dance fireworks display, choreographed to an exclusive musical remix by Wayne G. Celebrating DJ Abel’s 20th anniversary at White Party, get “READY, WILLING & ABEL” for a very special Closing Party, the weekend’s final event. DJ Isaac Escalante – flying in direct from Mexico and fresh off his global tour - gets the action on the dance floor going. Then, as anticipation builds, hold on tight as the man of the hour, DJ Abel, hits the stage dropping a cannonball of infectious grooves and beats to keep the celebration pumping all night long.

As expected, Sanker will unleash some of the most ambitious and mind blowing audiovisual engineering ever conceived. By combining light, sound and state-of-the-art technology together like never before through eight mind-expanding parties over three amazing days! Venues will be transformed with cutting-edge design and spectacular décor. Performances will ignite the stage boasting the most elaborate and innovative production values ever.

The White Party experience is enhanced by the splendor and beauty of Palm Springs, which provides a truly unforgettable desert backdrop at the foot of the mountains. Offering unparalleled convenience, all White Party events are locate within easy walking distance of each other - just steps away from all major hotels in the heart of beautiful downtown Palm Springs.

ABOUT THE MAN The MIAMI HERALD dubbed him “the high priest of gay parties.” GENRE MAGAZINE lists him as “Circuit Master.” NEXT MAGAZINE describes him as “the sultan of soirees.” And CIRCUIT NOIZE MAGAZINE simply calls him “the man.” With every accolade, Jeffrey Sanker further solidifies his name as the premier producer of gay nightlife and entertainment.

Jeffrey Sanker is the founder of LA-based White Party Entertainment, Inc. and creator of such signature events as WHITE PARTY PALM SPRINGS; New Year’s Eve celebrations in Los Angeles, Miami & Rio de Janeiro and the One Mighty Party at Orlando’s Gay Days. Sanker has been credited by the MIAMI HERALD as being “the father of the modern gay event party.” Nowhere is this more evident than with Sanker’s trademark extravaganza: White Party

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Palm Springs, which has evolved into the nation’s largest gay dance music festival, attracting more than 30,000 attendees from every corner of the globe.

Sanker’s passion for parties began during the early eighties in New York City. Working at such legendary locations as Studio 54, Palladium and Private Eyes, he fine-tuned his skills as a promoter and special event producer. He has hosted parties for numerous celebrities over the years.

His events feature high caliber DJs/producers, including: Dave Aude, the late Peter Rauhofer, Junior Vasquez, Victor Calderone, Freemasons, Manny Lehman, Rosabel and Tony Moran.

Jeffrey has also helped ignite the careers of countless other rising-star DJs by giving them their first big break. This prompted NEXT Magazine to comment: “the two best friends a DJ can have are Madonna and Jeffrey Sanker.”

Sanker has proudly produced fundraising events on behalf of numerous charities and community organizations, including Gay & Lesbian Elder Housing (GLEH), The Trevor Project, and Desert AIDS Project.

For the latest information on event schedules, DJs, performers and to purchase passes, accommodations and book travel visit: www.jeffreysanker.com.

IF YOU GO White Party Weekend April 24-27 / Passes & Ticket info / www.jeffreysanker.com

All Your Play Needs at the Best Prices We have it all from Very Nice to Very Naughty Great Gift Ideas & A Huge Greeting Card Selection The latest Magazines, Books and DVD’s Your exclusive spot for

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Q TRADING 606 E. Sunny Dunes Road Palm Springs, CA 800-756-2290 760-416-7150 Sun-Wed 10am-6pm Thu-Sat 10am-8pm

Q & A|LEANN RIMES

CONVERSING WITH LeANN

BY CHRIS ASTRALA

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Already a two-time Grammy winner by the time she was 14 years old (the youngest individual artist in history to do so), LeAnn Rimes has sold 44 million records to date. In addition, she has received twelve Billboard Magazine music awards with hit songs like, “I Need You,” “Can’t Fight The Moonlight” and “How Do I Live.” And now she is ready to take over the stage at the White Party 2015 Sunday Tea Dance.

Event producer Jeffrey Sanker : “It’s truly an honor to have a music legend like LeAnn joining us. We look forward to an absolutely magical performance.”

We had a chance to speak with Leann about her career, her latest projects and one particular part of her husband’s body she’s crazy about.

Thank you for taking time to speak to us, let’s get to it. You have been in show business since you were a very small child, and still going strong, to what do you attribute your longevity in the business?

I think with anything you do for a long time, you need to have determination and passion. I have known since I was little that singing brings me the greatest joy in the world. And because of that, I knew I would sing all my life. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to grow musically and change and have fans stay on board for the ride.

I remember the very first time I heard your number 1 hit “Blue” and thought what an amazing voice. Did you know at the time that you had recorded a song intended for Patsy Cline and what an impact you would cause?

I was 11 years old, I had no idea what was about to happen! I just remember thinking that I loved Patsy Cline and that the song was beautiful. And the rest is history I guess!

Looking back now, would you do it all over again? If so what would you do differently and what would you keep the same?

I am very lucky to have had the life that I have had so far and am thankful for all of the opportunities that have come my way. As for regrets or things I would do differently, I prefer not to look back on the past. I think you do the best you can in the moment and as long as you are true to yourself, you can’t beat yourself up for a decision made. Hindsight will drive you crazy!

What advice would you give someone just starting out in the music world?

Don’t give up and don’t settle. It is an exciting time in the music industry right now – the way music is created and heard by the masses is changing so now it really is ‘an artist’s world.’ I tell my fellow musicians that you need to carve out your own sound and really enjoy the process as you are doing it. So many people don’t pursue their passions in life and if you are going to be brave enough, then embrace everything that comes with it.

You recently released a greatest hits album, Dance Like You Don’t Give A …. , great title by the way, did you come up with it and was there a process used to choose some songs over others?

Me and my friend Darrell Brown came up with it together....

It represented how we should approach life ... Giving it all we got Are you excited to perform at the White Party? Have you ever performed at an event like this before?

I have performed at a number of LGBTQ events over the years – just last year I performed at Orlando Gay Days and Charlotte

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Q & A|LEANN RIMES Adding, “They have continued to embrace me and my music and I am so excited to be headlining the night at what is sure to be one of the best parties of the year.”

What are you looking forward to the most?

Definitely interacting with my fans. I have a feeling there is trouble brewing!

Thanks again Leann for your time… one last question…

3 things that people may not know about Leann are…

I love to cook and I’m quite an amazing jump roper! Oh and I’m obsessed with my husband’s butt.

Gay Pride but I hear they pale in comparison to the White Party; I am so excited. To be asked to play at the biggest LGBTQ party in the desert is an honor. Just think, beautiful people, costumes galore and amazing energy. What more could a girl ask for. I have been a supporter of the LGBT community for as long as I can remember.”

About the Sunday T-Dance. Held directly across from the Palm Spring Convention Center, this spectacular afternoon celebration is the largest outdoor T-dance in the world. In addition to incredible entertainment, the event features scenic rides on the world-famous White Party Ferris Wheel and a choreographed fireworks finale – set to an exclusive musical remix by DJ Wayne G.

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DINAH VEGAS|FEATURE DINAH VEGAS SIZZLES IN 2015 AS THE FAVORITE EVENT OF LESBIANS WORLDWIDE!

Hit “The Strip” with the hottest women from all over the world!

Girl Bar, in association with Total Rewards by Caesars Entertainment, ignites Sin City with the ultimate lesbian weekend in the most extraordinary venues ever offered, as DINAH Vegas sizzles April 23-26, 2015 in fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada.

In just four years, Dinah Vegas has exploded in popularity to become the favorite event of lesbians worldwide. This year, tens of thousands of women from everywhere including Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, Mexico and New Zealand will enjoy all the non-stop entertainment, world-class dining, 24/7 gaming and fantastic weather that only Dinah Vegas offers.

“As Dinah Vegas continues to grow, our strong relationship with Caesars Entertainment enables us to always offer amazing one of a kind venues and accommodations at the best locations in Vegas, if not the world.” said Dinah Vegas Producer Sandy Sachs. “Our patrons have shared through social media the outstanding events from previous years and keep coming back; bringing more and more friends to enjoy the one-of-a-kind lesbian experience that can only be found at Dinah Vegas.”

For its biggest year ever, Dinah Vegas takes over some of Caesars’ newest and most sought-after venues for its world famous events, created by lesbians specifically for lesbians. New for 2015—Thursday’s Opening Party will happen at FIZZ, Sir Elton John and David Furnish’s deliciously extravagant Champagne Lounge & Bar located at Caesars Palace. Once again, The Flamingo Hotel’s

DJ SARA MOSHIRI, ANITA ANTOINETTE, SANDY SACHS & GIRLBAR POOL PARTY.

sprawling main pool will be the setting for Saturday’s incredible pool party complete with its VIP cabanas and over 400 pool chairs, exclusively for Dinah Vegas attendees. Entertainment of global proportions includes Anita Antionette, finalist from The Voice-season seven, Billboard electro pop sensation STASH and an international DJ roster including Germany’s Sara Moshiri – direct from Berlin!

New this year will be the addition of a Sunday Funday Pool Party which is sure to be a crowd favorite. (Location announced soon!) All the latest updates, as well as the full Dinah Vegas 2015 schedule of events, entertainment, tickets, hotel information and VIP travel package options may be found at www.dinahshoreweekend.com.

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FEATURE|GAY DADS

GAY FATHERHOOD

IN THE LAND OF DOLCE & GABBANA

BY RYAN PORTER, GAYWITHKIDS.COM

LUIGI CODECASA & MARCO MAZZA CILDREN PIETRO & SILVIA

FRANCESCO INEPPO AND ANDREA LORENZATO WITH THEIR DAUGHTER TERESA

Fashion designer Domenico Dolce proved his good taste stops at the edge of the runway when he told Italian magazine Panorama that “children of chemistry” (more commonly known as children born through surrogacy) are “synthetic children.” His comments sparked an international uproar; Elton John, whose own sons were born to a surrogate, led a boycott against the Dolce & Gabbana brand. Yet in Dolce’s native Italy, his opinion that “the only family is the traditional one” is no extremist position. Rather, it’s one that’s entrenched in law, with both surrogacy and gay adoption illegal in Italy.

have children, Codecasa says, but today, Pietro and Silvia are her little VIPs.

“Surrogacy is such a taboo topic in Europe,” Claudio Rossi Marcelli, the author of “Hello Daddy!” about how he and his partner Manlio Sanna welcomed twin girls through an American surrogate, told Gaywithkids.com “It’s always very theoretical: about principles, about ethics, moral issues. But when you put faces onto people, it all becomes more human. People change their minds so quickly.”

Codecasa is the founder of Papà Arcobaleno (Rainbow Dads), a Milan-based group of more than 150 gay fathers and prospective fathers who are located across Italy and beyond. Through their Facebook page, they share support and parenting tips with their members and other curious gay dads internationally. Codecasa contacted Gaywithkids.com via Facebook a few months ago.

Luigi Codecasa agrees. When he welcomed his twins Pietro and Silvia, 7, the Milan-based doctor was delighted at the way his community rallied behind his new family. Codecasa recalls showing his local baker the sonogram of his two children, who were conceived with a lesbian friend. The baker was shocked that a gay man would

Through Papà Arcobaleno, Codecasa met Andrea Lorenzato, a 36-year-old sales rep and new father to an 8-month-old baby girl.

Lorenzato agrees that Italian law is out of step with the spirit of the people. “The community is behaving differently than what the law says,” he notes. Along with his partner, Francesco Ineppo, he is a new

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“She is always inviting them to the back of the shop and giving them pizzas or croissants for free,” he says proudly. “It’s the same in the street market. Both the butcher and the grocer go crazy for the kids.” The butcher’s wife even confided in Codecasa that she had conceived through artificial insemination. “I can tell you because I know you will understand me,” she said.

GAY DADS|FEATURE surrogate because of concerns surrounding how the women might be treated. “We didn’t want this journey to create sadness for someone else,” Lorenzato says. They were looking closely at the Philippines, but backed off at the advice of a lawyer. “There was the possibility that one day the mother of this baby could wake up and say, ‘I want this baby back, give me money,’” he says. “And this was not a solution that we could consider.”

Like many gay Italians looking to become parents, they ultimately found their surrogate in California. Teresa was conceived on their first try and had a perfectly healthy gestation. Then, three months before her due date, the daddies-to-be received a text from their surrogate’s husband. “We are in the hospital. The baby will be born in three hours by C-section. Come here.”

CLAUDIO MARCELLI AND MANLIO SANNA WITH THEIR CHILDREN MADDALENA, BARTOLOMEO AND CLELIA

father to an 8-month-old baby girl, Teresa, whom they welcomed through a surrogate. This April, Teresa will be baptized in a Catholic church. “The law of the church could say that they don’t approve of gay people,” Lorenzato says. “But at the end of the day no one is going to tell you, ‘I am not going to respect this little baby.’”

Despite the momentum in the streets, the Italian government, currently lead by center-left prime minister Matteo Renzi, hasn’t budged when it comes to updating laws for gay families. “Italians have zero civic sense,” Marcelli says. “That’s why the country is such a mess. Everyone is about their own interests. Even if they are personally okay with being gay and being a gay parent they don’t go out and make it a political statement. So the political parties don’t feel that urge to put it in the political agenda.”

Under pressure from the European Union, civil unions for gay couples are expected to be legalized in some fashion by May of this year while mayors of Italian cities such as Rome, Milan and Florence have already gone rogue by recognizing the marriages of gay Italians who wed abroad. However, for gay men, the type of international surrogacy Dolce criticized is one of the few ways they can realize their dream of fatherhood.

Even then it’s a minefield of legal loopholes and prohibitive expenses. Lorenzato and Ineppo immediately struck countries such as India, Thailand and China from their lists when searching for a

They were on the first plane out of Venice the next morning, and when they arrived at the hospital in Redwoods, Calif., they found a child fighting for her life. “You see this very little baby with all these tubes, all these computers and machines around her,” Lorenzato remembers. The couple tried to prepare themselves for the worst, telling each other, “We’ve survived so far without this baby.” “But it’s impossible,” Lorenzato says, “because your heart is inside that crib.”

Teresa was in the hospital for two months before she was well enough to travel back to Lorenzato and Ineppo’s home in Vicenza, 45 minutes west of Venice. Today, she is a model child. “She’s sleeping all night from 8 o’clock in the evening to 6 o’clock in the morning,” Lorenzato says. “So far she’s so good. We are expecting her to wake up one day and say, I am going to make your life a nightmare.”

Surrogacy is not an option for everyone, however. “Unfortunately there’s an economic aspect to the situation that doesn’t allow all gay couples to become dads,” he says. Expenses for an international couple using a California surrogate can range from $70,000 to more than $91,000 (not including insurance). Fees cover everything from psychological screening to agency fees to a housekeeping allowance for the surrogate.

Co-parenting is another option. Codecasa was lucky enough to meet Alessendra di Minno, a gay woman who was also dreaming of having a child. They spent three months getting to know each other, discussing their views on everything from religion to education before they agreed to try to conceive a child they could co-parent.

For five years they tried what Codecasa calls their “homemade attempts,” with a turkey baster. They also saw a doctor for artificial insemination. They finally conceived on Christmas Day and on August 15 welcomed not one but two babies: Pietro and Silvia. Today di

APRIL, 2015 17

FEATURE|GAY DADS Minno and Codecasa take turns co-parenting: the children’s permanent residence is with their biological mother, but they spend Wednesday nights and one afternoon a week with Codecasa in between soccer practices and gymnastics classes, as well as every other weekend.

Despite what Dolce voiced about “traditional families,” Marcelli believes it’s precisely because family values are so entrenched in the culture that Italians are more willing to embrace gay parents in their communities. “Paradoxically, it’s even easier to be gay parents than a gay couple,” says Marcelli. “When you have kids you can show your neighbors that their lifestyle is so similar to yours. When you have kids, the schools, the doctors, they welcome you into the family club.”

Despite this secret pass, the lack of legal protection has meant Marcelli and his partner Manlio Sanna have had to improvise. Only one father can be listed on the child’s birth certificate, and with their 7-year-old twins Clelia and Maddalena, they decided that Marcelli would be the biological father: his flexible schedule as a professional writer would allow him more time at home during the children’s infancy. But when it came time to conceive their third child, a son named Bartolomeo, now 3, Marcelli was uncomfortable.

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“I always felt that the lack of a legislation over the legal status of our family gave me a lot of power over the legal status of our kids,” he says. “I always told Manlio, ‘One day I could just freak out and decide I don’t want to see you anymore. I have the power to keep these girls from you.’ I always felt this was really disproportionate. When it was the second time around I said, ‘Let’s make you the legal father of this third kid so we’re all tangled and creating a guarantee.’ It’s kind of a weird thought because you don’t want to think about the worst.”

However, the issue highlights why it is so important for parental rights not only to be informally recognized by knowing neighbors, but also to be enshrined in law. “They say that the real fight for gay marriage is the fight for gay divorce,” Marcelli says. “When all of a sudden things go wrong you need the law to protect you from becoming the worst part of you.”

If only Domenico Dolce had a law like that to protect his foot from getting stuck in his mouth.

All photos courtesy of Gaywithkids.com

BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED…

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

I’m sorry.

There they are: two words you learned (or should’ve learned) as a toddler to make amends, set things right, receive forgiveness, and move on.

I’m sorry. Please forgive me.

If acknowledged, those words are cathartic and weight-lifting.

If ignored, they can crush. Or, as in the new book “I Left It on the Mountain” by Kevin Sessums, they can do both over the course of a lifetime.

On the morning of his 53rd birthday, Kevin Sessums woke up in a funk.

It wasn’t his workload that his body had “already begun to rebel at;” he was scheduled that evening to attend an Oscar party with Courtney Love. No, what plagued him was that he’d signed up to walk the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a pilgrimage of 500-some miles.

Sessums wasn’t sure what he hoped to gain by walking the Camino. He’d been told that the trek was spiritual, one “that pilgrims have walked for over two thousand years.” He’d been told that it would change him.

Change was what he realized he needed.

As a child growing up in Mississippi, Sessums was a “sissy boy” and he knew that he’d disappointed his father. Efforts to align with his father betrayed his mother in ways that hurt her. But because both his parents died when Sessums was nine years old, he couldn’t ask for their forgiveness.

Molested at thirteen, now HIV positive and feeling abandoned as an adult, Sessums had been bingeing on drugs and sex for months when a friend suggested the Camino. The journey “beckoned” – but not without questions.

“How,” Sessums mused, “Do I fully combine the spiritual with the carnal?”

Weeks later, the answer arrived in pieces as he chose the more difficult path of the Camino walk, up hills and through mud, fighting blisters and exhaustion but noticing men and miracles. Answers would come as he learned to “let go” and as he met people he enjoyed, “including now myself.”

But that’s not the pinnacle of this powerful memoir – not by a long shot. And yet, my emotions ran the gamut from “OMG” to “Ho-hum”

while reading “I Left It on the Mountain.”

To start, author Kevin Sessums is a first-rate memoirist. He opens his heart and soul and lets you see everything that’s there: warm childhood memories, recollections of time spent with “heightened acquaintances,” love of (and frustration with) family, painful years of grief, loss, and fear. This unfiltering and the diary part of his Camino journey – the passages about passages, if you will – both underscore his talent.

Readers, however – especially readers unfamiliar with New York society or the pop-culture-fashion magazine industry - may struggle with frequent, unfamiliar name-dropping.

I also would be remiss if I didn’t mention the presence of very explicit, brutal sex…

Still, despite eye-poppers and flaws that really aren’t flaws, there was a bigger part of me that couldn’t put this book aside. It’s beautiful, it’s ugly, and if you skip reading “I Left it On the Mountain,” you may never forgive yourself.

“I Left it On the Mountain” by Kevin Sessums c.2015, St. Martin’s Press $25.99 / $29.99 Canada 273 pages

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EVENT|ACS GALA

THE DESERT SPIRIT XXVI GALA FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD TO A CURE

In the iconic movie, “The Wizard of Oz” Dorothy was encouraged to follow the yellow brick in hopes of finding her way back home.

This year’s Desert Spirit Gala theme is “Follow the Yellow Brick Road to a Cure”. And just like Dorothy there is that hope that at the end of the road we find what we are looking for… a cure.

The Desert Spirit XXVI Gala, “Follow The Yellow Brick Road to a Cure,” will be held at the Palm Springs Convention Center at 5:30 p.m. on April 12.

This year the ACS will deservedly recognize American Cancer Society volunteer extraordinaire Melissa Neiderman with the “Jackie Lee Houston Spirit Award” and veteran journalist and TV personality Gloria Greer will be honored with the “Inspiration Award” at the Desert Spirit XXVI Gala on April 12.

Three children cancer fighters, Desirae “Desi” Ava Grace Cechin, 5; Jacob Reyes, 5, and Juliana Rose Finazzo, 10, will receive “Celebration of Life Award.”

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Neiderman, advisory chair to this year’s gala is a dedicated supporter of ACS and other charities. “The Jackie Houston Award” is given to an individual or company by the Houston Family who has demonstrated the late philanthropist Mrs. Houston’s example of compassion while providing time, energy and or financial contributions to the greater Coachella Valley community. The individual or group exhibits the spirit of sincere actions to motivate and encourage others to do the same as Mrs. Houston so courageously did.

“Melissa is the model of a board member, volunteer and advocate for an organization. The passion and commitment that she shows, not only for the ACS, but for cancer, and the people who are dealing with it, is inspiring. Her devotion to helping this community is above and beyond,” said Jim Houston Jr. speaking for the Houston family.

Neiderman started her charitable work as a teacher at Palm Valley School creating a walk-a-thon that benefitted a different charity each year. She joined her parents in the ACT for Multiple Sclerosis Christmas Tree Event and partnered with her mother Diane as one of the tree decorators. Over four years ago, she became a full-time volunteer with the American Cancer Society. She has been a committee member and event chair for the ACS Desert Spirit fundraiser, is on the ACS Leadership Committee, and is on the Border Sierra Regional Council for ACS. Last summer, Neiderman was asked to help Desi Cechin and her family bring awareness to her fight with cancer and their need for medical advice and costs.

Gloria Greer, respected and honored print and TV journalist, is now a cancer survivor of esophageal cancer after weeks of treatment by desert oncologist Dr. Amy Law after Dr. Gary Anunziata insisted she be tested for complaints about digestive problems due to acid

ACS GALA|EVENT

DESIRAE “DESI” AVA GRACE CECHIN, 5; JULIANA ROSE FINAZZO, 10 AND JACOB REYES, 5

reflux. Dr. Anunziata found the tumor and recommended treatment.

Greer underwent daily radiation for five weeks supervised by Dr. Peter Greenburg at Century 21 Oncology.

“I never thought of myself as a cancer victim, only as a cancer survivor who would be able to warn others that acid reflux which 30 million people have in the USA is not as innocent as it appears,” Greer said. Of the 30 million, 17,000 develop esophageal cancer.

She says it is up to the individuals with acid reflux to insist on being tested every few years with an upper GI or endoscopy to be certain they are not one of those who will develop esophageal cancer.

Greer also plans to raise funds through the American Cancer Society for more research on esophageal cancer.

She is the Social Life editor of Palm Springs Life; hosts and produces two television shows for PBS, Exploring the Arts and Classic Conversations on KVCR TV as well as continuing her Time Warner Cable series. Greer’s background in print and electronic media includes 25 years as entertainment editor and anchor of the nightly NBC affiliate, KMIR- TV, editor and publisher of Sand To Sea magazine, later sold to Palm Springs Life “With her assiduous work ethic, her contagious laughter, and her love for her community, Gloria Greer is a huge inspiration to many of us here in the desert. We are honored to be presenting Gloria with the ACS Desert Spirit Inspiration Award because she not only possesses perseverance and an unbridled desire to help others, but she exudes courage and true grit in the face of her cancer diagnosis,” Neiderman said.

KESQ News Channel 3, The Desert Sun, Desert Radio Group and The Standard Magazine are proud media sponsors of Desert Spirit Gala XXVI.

MELISSA NEIDERMAN AND GLORIA GREER

Tickets are $300 per person and tables of 10 for $3,000 are available. For reservations and information about sponsorships, please call today (760) 568-2691 press opt. 3.

The American Cancer Society offers free programs and services, with many volunteers in the Coachella Valley who can help. Please call (800) 227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org IF YOU GO ACS Desert Spirit Gala “Follow The Yellow Brick Road to a Cure” April 12 / PS Convention Center Palm Springs Info: www.desertspirit.org

APRIL, 2015 21

PSP FOCUS MARTI IS CUMMINGS TO PALM SPRINGS!

BY JUSTIN LONG

Gossip columnist Michael Musto calls Marti Cummings “the love child of Liza Minnelli and Johnny Weir”.

The NYC-based comedian, singer, and nightlife host has enjoyed an expansive career that has included off-Broadway theatre, national tours, one-man shows, and a hit dance single, “Real Girl”.

Part of Marti Cummings’ shtick is drag, but not the typical diva glam you may be used to. His look leans more towards androgyny, sporting beautiful dresses and heels while still looking very much like a man.

Until now, you would have needed to travel to the Big Apple to see Marti, where he performs nightly shows at various venues: New World Stages, The Ritz, Barracuda, and Industry Bar. However, this spring, the Lady Boy is hitting the road! He brings his unique brand of song, dance and stand-up to Toucans Tiki Lounge in Palm Springs on April 19.

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How would you describe your show?

A mix of Liza Minnelli and Joan Rivers with a meaty tuck.

Is it cabaret or vaudeville?

When I perform, I pull from all types of genres and styles. It all depends on the crowd, the venue, and my mood… I like to weave together different styles to make my own. So it is all of the above.

What would be your dream role to play on Broadway and why?

My top three roles would be Hedwig, The Emcee in Cabaret, and Albin in La Cage. They are all very close to who I am as a performer yet all extremely different role and roles that I feel I can play at different stages in my life. John Cameron Mitchell, Kander and Ebb, and Jerry Herman and Harvey Fierstein are all brilliant

PSP FOCUS writers who crafted and created these incredibly intricate characters that embody both humor and comedy as well as a deep rooted need for survival and perseverance. They all want to show the world that they are somebody; that they are normal and it is wonderful. All of them have kinda been shut out by society so they rose above to become great and powerful figures that people look to.

Kinda like Marti Cummings…

You said it, not me.

Is the dream to eventually do big stage productions or have you found your niche in the one-man show?

I love the niche I have created. I am afforded a lot of creative freedom by doing my solo shows. But I think if the opportunity to do a large production came about, I would certainly consider it, depending on what it is.

Let’s talk about your show. Do you enjoy insulting people?

Insulting people is never fun and that isn’t what I do. I make jokes based on scenarios and situations. Some may call that an insult comic

but it is all in good fun and I make fun of myself more than anyone in the audience. It’s comedy, people! I am not trying to cure cancer or put a man on the moon. I am here just to make people laugh.

What’s the meanest thing you’ve said about a person on stage?

Who knows what it was but I bet it got a laugh and I probably got tips for it too!

Ever make a person cry?

I make people cry all the time because they are laughing so hard.

How do you mix music with comedy?

Music and comedy go beautifully together. You can set a song up by telling a comedic story or reading someone in the audience or reading myself to set up what track will be sung next.

Do you take your music seriously?

Of course. I have a catch phrase: “lyrics don’t matter but music is there to guide and flow and tell a story”. continued on page 24

APRIL, 2015 23

PSP FOCUS How would you describe your voice?

My voice is uniquely my own voice.

Is it one that people appreciate after a few cocktails?

People appreciate it because I am in on the joke. If you need a drink to enjoy it then at least the bar is making money, which means I have done my job. So drink up while I belt it out! It probably would sound better!

What one song do you love to sing?

“Cabaret”. It is my all time favorite song to sing. It is a complete story with a beginning, a middle and an end. I feel so much joy and passion when I am performing it.

Will you perform the song at Toucans Tiki Lounge?

Yes, definitely.

What singer most inspires you?

I have two: Freddie Mercury and Liza Minnelli because both are or were - so invested in every performance and they know that the job is to entertain and they always give 150% to every song.

Can we discuss the dress thing?

Of course!

Why wear dresses and heels but no wig?

Drag has no definition. There are no lines to color in and no box to stay in. Drag can be anything you want it to be so, like every queen, I came up with my own version of it.

Is drag a real part of who you are or is it simply a gimmick for your act?

Drag is my life. My career is my life. I breathe, sweat, bleed, and live for my craft and for what I do. I perform seven days a week so it is very much a part of who I am and I love it but when the lights go down, the curtain is closed, and the heels are off, I am simply Marti.

How does the drag add to your act?

It allows me the opportunity to be more extroverted.

What’s next for you, Marti Cummings?

That is Gods plan but I am going to follow it, wherever it goes.

I have a feeling it will be a great adventure so come and take the journey with me!

Marti performs Toucans Tiki Lounge in Palm Springs on April 19.

Find him on Facebook at Marti.g.cummings

THE ARTISTS COUNCIL TO HOLD ANNUAL 99 BUCKS FUNDRAISER The Artists Council of Palm Springs Art Museum will hold its annual 99 Bucks fundraiser on Saturday, April 11 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the historic Riviera Palm Springs Resort & Spa, the sponsor hotel. This major fundraiser, which benefits the Education Department at the museum, draws more than 1,500 art lovers from Southern California.

Celebrities, Artists Council members and other artists create artwork on 5 by 7 inch canvases, which are available for purchase.

Only after the purchase is the artist revealed with a signature of the artist on the back of the canvas. Past surprise contributors have included Ed Ruscha, Tony Bennett, Barry Manilow and k.d. lang, among others. Each

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artwork is available for $99. The more than 400 members of the museum’s Artists Council are professional artists engaging in arts activities such as exhibitions and workshops, programs that create fellowship among members and promote the role of artists in the Greater Coachella Valley communities.

A preview of the sale can be viewed at www.fineartamerica.com/profiles/99-bucks.

For more information about the 99 bucks fundraiser please contact Randall Weidner, Artists Council Coordinator, at artistscouncil@psmuseum.org or (760) 3224850. For more information about Palm Springs Art Museum visit www.psmuseum.org or call (760) 322-4800.

PSP FOCUS DINING OUT FOR LIFE 2015 BIGGER THAN EVER FOR DAP Dining Out For Life is that one day each year when supporting Desert AIDS Project is as simple as having breakfast, lunch, dinner, a snack, dessert, coffee, a cocktail, or all of the above (is your mouth watering yet?) at your favorite participating business. In addition to many long-time Dining Out For Life supporters, 13 new partners have come aboard this year. Two of these newest, PHO 533 in the Smoke Tree Shopping Center and Ristretto at The Five Hundred at Palm Canyon and Ramon in Palm Springs, are giving a never-before 100% of their sales from Thursday, April 30 to client services at D.A.P.!

“We are hoping for a phenomenal year because the beyondgenerous Harold Matzner and Spencer’s Restaurant are back for a fourth year at 75%. And Tony and Mark have brought back Trio, a perennially top-producer, and its sister restaurant The Purple Room – both again at 60%,” said Darrell L. Tucci, Chief Development Officer

at Desert AIDS Project. “Our amazing friends at LuLu California Bistro -- #1 last year – and Zin American Bistro who both do so much for us throughout the year, are also back at 50% in Dining Out For Life.”

This also marks the first year that Dining Out For Life includes a restaurant in the high desert ; Sam’s Pizza and Indian in Joshua Tree, a family-owned business that uses only fresh ingredients and a few twists on the ordinary, like their Curry Sauce Pizzas.

To begin planning your dining extravaganza on Thursday, April 30, www.diningoutforlife.com to see if your favorite restaurant, coffee shop, bar or other business is participating in Dining Out For Life 2015; with 50 participating restaurants and counting, you are sure to find your favorite. Some D.A.P. supporters tell us that they dine out for all three meals on the last Thursday in April – and often add in coffee and/or a cocktail for good measure – so that they can maxout their contribution to Desert AIDS Project.

APRIL, 2015 25

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PSP FOCUS DEL SHORES AT THE PURPLE ROOM Del Shores, the creator of Sordid Lives brings his new show, Del Shores: SINgularly SORDID, with all new hysterical, sordid stories, to Purple Room Restaurant And Stage in Palm Springs on Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1.

In his new show, Del discusses the unexpected comedy of returning to the world of dating after divorce. Tinder, Grindr, Scruff, OkCupid -- sometimes it’s just too much! He shares a litany of bad dates and “the trials and tribulations of trying to be a slut again” when you are a “minor gay celebrity.” Del answers the burning question “Did his movie Sordid Lives really influence six different women to superglue their cheating boyfriends and husband’s dicks to their stomachs?”

And of course, Del shares more letters from the haters and his P.S.F.U. responses. Also, there is more celebrity dish, including Dolly Parton, George Lopez and Leslie Jordan.

“I am so excited to return to Palm Springs and play The Purple Room with my new show SINgularly SORDID. Palm Springs and I have a sordid love affair going and I hope it continues for many, many years.”

“The censors will be absent, F-bombs will fly and if you are easily offended -- stay home,” said Shores.

Del has also won or been nominated for GLAAD, NAACP, Ovation, Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle, LA Weekly and Backstage Garland awards for writing, directing and producing. He has Lifetime Achievement awards from LA Weekly and FilmOut San Diego and is

the 2013 recipient of The Stanley Kramer Emerging Filmmaker Award.

Del recently returned to acting, co-starring in the independent feature Cry, now playing in film festivals.

Dinner service begins at 5.30pm and the show starts at 7:00pm.

Tickets for this show are only $25 and are available at http://delshores.bpt.me or by calling 1-800-838-3006.

APRIL, 2015 27

SUCCESS STRATEGIST

ASK THE COACH

BY TRENT BLANCHARD Dear Coach Trent, I get depressed when I turn on the TV to see the state of our world today. I am most concerned with hearing about global warming and how the environment is in danger. I have children and want to make the world a better, safer place. I feel completely helpless and get so angry when I see our elected officials seemingly avoid the subject and disregard what scientists are saying about the future.

What can I do?

I hear your concerns and appreciate your feelings of anger and hopelessness. The key is to use such feelings as fuel to take action and make changes in your own life, which will then affect the world.

Every single person CAN make a difference and it begins with you! If we all used our anger and made some small changes to our everyday lives, then the world around us would also change. As Gandhi once said “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

What are such small changes? Purchase a water purifier for

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your faucet instead of buying individual plastic water bottles that would make less refuse. Call the catalogue companies and tell them to stop sending you the catalogues you don’t use and save a tree.

(I personally did this) Only use your washing machine when you have a full load, saving gallons of water annually. Call your local political representative and share your concerns about the state of our environment and world. Imagine if we all did such things, we would have a decrease feeling of hopelessness because we are actually doing something. Be part of the solution instead of being part of the problem! Challenge your friends, family and neighbors to do the same. Anger can be a wonderful tool if we act ON it instead of act it OUT! Use your anger to make some changes and you will feel yourself more empowered and hopeful, instead of angry and depressed. Good luck!

Trent Blanchard, M.A. To ask your own personal question and be considered for a future issue, please write me at “askthecoach@thestandardps.com”

Thursday, April 30, 2015 Participating Restaurants* Contributing 100% Pho 533 D Ristretto Coffee BLD Contributing 75% Spencer’s Restaurant D Contributing 60% The Purple Room D Trio Restaurant LD Contributing 50% Alicante LD Bar D Chez Pierre Bistro D Dickey’s Barbecue Pit D Giuseppes Pizza & Pasta LD Hunter’s Happy Hour

LULU California Bistro BLD The Muse Café L Over The Rainbow Cupcakes Smoke Tree BBQ & Grill LD Sunshine Café BLD Wangs in the Desert D Zin American Bistro LD Contributing 33% Appetito LD Aspen Mills BLD Café Europa BL Cello’s D Cello’s Pantry BLD Citron D Copley’s D El Mirasol LD El Mirasol Los Arboles LD Escena Lounge and Grill D Firehouse Subs Palm Desert LD

Firehouse Subs Palm Springs LD Georgie’s Alibi/Azul LD Guacamole’s LD Jake’s LD Jus Chillin Frozen Desserts LD King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel BLD Miro’s D Native Foods LD The New York Company Restaurant D Oscar’s Cafe & Bar LD Palm Greens Café BL Pinocchio in the Desert BL Rio Azul Mexican Bar & Grill D Sam’s Market Joshua Tree LD Serious Food and Drink LD Smokin’ Burgers & Lounge LD Tinto D The Tropicale D Twin Palms Bistro LD Venue Sushi Bar & Sake Lounge D

*as of 3/20/15

Presented by

760.992.0442 diningoutforlife.com/palmsprings/restaurants

To make a donation please go to bit.ly/dineoutfightaids

APRIL, 2015 29

LEGALLY SPEAKING

THE NO-PARTY CLAUSE AND OTHER BUMPS IN THE ROAD

BY CHRISTOPHER HERITAGE

Everyone has questions from time to time about how to handle knotty problems that threaten to make life miserable. I get phone calls or emails from many of these people who hope that I can provide answers, or refer them on to someone who can. Some are minor issues or sad ones – and some of them are very serious. They cover a vast range of troubles that could happen to any of us. Here are a few recent questions that came up: Two friends and I get along really well, so we signed a lease on a house together. My friends threw a big party while I was out of town a couple of weeks ago, and neighbors called the police to break it up. Now the landlord has sent a letter telling us all to move out because the lease says no noisy parties are allowed. I am furious.

I don’t want to move. I wasn’t even here for the party, so it wasn’t my fault. How can I get the landlord to let me stay, even if the others have to leave?

You probably can’t convince him to continue your lease. When the 3 of you leased the property together, you gave up your separate rights and became a single renter. The rights and responsibilities of each one of you are shared by all 3 of you. You may not have been personally involved in the party, but you are just as responsible for it as the other 2 are. The landlord has every right to evict all of you for breaking the terms of the lease.

What should I do if I get a call from a collection agency and know I don’t owe them any money?

First, do not ignore the call. Immediately, request verification of the debt in writing. Under California and federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act rules, you must usually do so within 30 days of receiving the first notification of the debt. When you receive the validation, determine whether it is correct, and that you truly do not owe that debt. Pull together whatever proof or substantiation you can and promptly send that back to the collection agency.

Second, if the collector refuses to acknowledge your response or withdraw the claim that you owe money, protect yourself by doing the following:

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Check your credit report to see if the debt has been reported to any of the 3 credit reporting agencies. If it has, file a dispute of the claim with each of those agencies. If the collector threatens or harasses you, file a complaint with the California Attorney General’s office and the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. If the collector files suit against you to make you pay the debt, do not ignore the notice of hearing. You have a very short period of time to respond. If you don’t file a protest, you will need to appear at the hearing, or it is very likely the court will rule that you owe the debt.

Finally, if you must go to court, consult an attorney to make sure you have as much proof for your position as possible, and that you understand your legal rights under the circumstances.

What can I do to make the Homeowners Association respond to my requests for repairs to my condo and our common areas? They don’t answer my calls, and they don’t tell us when the board meets, so I can’t go to meetings to talk to them.

California has strong HOA laws that clearly spell out how these organizations and boards of directors must operate. Each homeowner must be provided with a copy of the covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs), bylaws and other information when the home is purchased; and the HOA must keep these up to date at least annually. Also, an annual budget and outside audit of HOA finances must be provided to each homeowner.

A management company who handles day-to-day HOA affairs is responsible directly to the board of directors, who are themselves elected by the homeowners. Notice of meetings and meeting minutes must be provided. You have the right to inspect and copy association books and records.

Most requests to the management company and the board must be in writing. This may be one reason your calls are being ignored.

Write to the manager and the board requesting copies of meeting minutes for the past year, and meeting schedules for the remainder of this year. In a separate letter, identify the problems you are having in your condo and the common areas, and how you expect them to be resolved. If there is no response, attend the next board meeting, and be prepared to present your concerns in a very brief and concise way. Board meetings must allow time for homeowner participation, but the time is usually limited to 3 or 4 minutes per person.

In the meantime, discuss the situation with as many of your other HOA members as possible. If you are having trouble with the manager and the board, it is very likely your neighbors are too. An action plan to get the HOA’s attention is often successful when they see an uprising in their future.

If none of the above works, and repair and other problems affect daily living, consult an attorney who is experienced with HOA issues to help decide if legal action is needed.

This article is part of an ongoing series of articles pertaining to legal issues relevant to the LGBT community, and is intended for general information purposes only – not legal advice. Christopher Heritage is an attorney in Palm Springs and San Diego, who focuses on LGBT estate planning, domestic partnerships, same-sex marriage, probate, trust administration, and bankruptcy. He welcomes questions and comments and can be contacted at 760-325-2020 or at chris@heritagelegal.com

APRIL, 2015 31

EQCA UPDATE

EXPANDING EQUALITY IN THE GOLDEN STATE

BY RICK ZBUR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR With over 100 pro-equality laws passed and sponsored by Equality California, our state has the strongest comprehensive civil rights protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of any state in the country.

But gaps still remain. The bills we are advancing this legislative session will address some of the remaining gaps, and also help advance EQCA’s new objectives which are to address the health and well-being of LGBT Californians.

AB 959, authored by Assembly member David Chiu, would require government agencies to collect data on sexual orientation and gender identity whenever additional demographic data is collected. Collecting this data is necessary to understand the extent to which LGBT people are experiencing disparities in health and well-being and whether government programs are reaching LGBT people in need of care and assistance.

In tandem with AB 959, EQCA is leading a coalition advocating that the paper and online applications for Covered California and Medi-Cal, which together will insure one-third of all Californians, includes voluntary questions about sexual orientation and gender identity. Collecting this information is critical in healthcare settings to ensure LGBT individuals get the culturally competent health care they need.

As proposed to be amended, AB 827, authored by Assembly member Patrick O’Donnell, would create a teacher training program that would aid teachers in identifying and assisting LGBT students who may need particular support in the coming out process or dealing with bias-based bullying. LGBT youth have a higher dropout rate than their straight peers and are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their straight peers. Therefore, AB 827 will give teachers the training they need to help LGBT students.

SB 703, authored by Senator Mark Leno, prohibits state agencies from doing business with companies that fail to offer transgender employees the same health care coverage and benefits they offer all other workers. This would reduce disparities in health care coverage for transgender people. EQCA is co-sponsoring SB 703 with the National

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Center for Lesbian Rights and Transgender Law Center.

AB 329, authored by Assembly member Shirley Weber, would update and strengthen existing law to ensure that students receive sex education that is accurate, comprehensive, medically accurate, age-appropriate and inclusive. This bill will teach students about LGBT people and their families and will lead to greater understanding and acceptance of LGBT youth and families. Additionally, the bill will update curriculum on prevention of sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and pregnancy. EQCA is co-sponsoring AB 329 with American Civil Liberties Union of California, California Latinas for Reproductive Justice, Forward Together, and Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California.

AB 87, authored by Assembly member Mark Stone, would prohibit discrimination against transgender jurors in the jury selection process in California courts. The bill also makes clear that jury selection discrimination based on ethnicity, age, genetic information, or disability is prohibited as well.

AB 960, authored by Assembly member David Chiu, would modernize California’s assisted reproduction laws to protect families using assisted reproduction. Current law puts intended parents using this method of reproduction and their children at risk due to the discrepancy in parental rights. EQCA is co-sponsoring AB 960 with the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Our Family Coalition.

AB 1050, authored by Assembly member Evan Low, would require that all charities eligible for donations through a state employee-giving program are screened to ensure that they do not discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Over the past 17 years, EQCA has changed the legislative landscape for LGBT people — from a state with extremely limited protections for LGBT people to the state with the most comprehensive LGBT civil rights protections in the country. With a total of 102 bills passed prior to the 2015 session, passing these eight would bring that total to 110, continuing EQCA’s record-setting legislative agenda. For more information about our efforts please visit eqca.org.

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FITNESS

ONLY THE FIT SURVIVE

BY DENNIS MASON, BFA, CPT Over the course of my fitness and coaching career I have deduced that there are basically two types of people who engage in resistance training to maintain their overall health and fitness; Type I, the “driven” and Type II, the “undriven”. Of course there are variations within each group, but for those of you who are Type I, it would take an act of God to keep you from your workouts. And, even then, you would find a way.

For the Type II person, the idea of getting to the gym is a matter of secondary importance that almost always takes a back seat to everything else in your life. The reasons are numerous and vary greatly from person to person. This type of person makes up the bulk of the population.

Here’s the deal; rigorous exercise must be regular and consistent to be effective. It is the cardinal rule for productive physical conditioning. Getting to the gym, even if you don’t want to, is of prime importance to the overall health and fitness of your whole self; body and mind. Any disruption in consistency will lead to erosion of the very foundation of your health and fitness structure. As we all know, no structure of any kind will stand if the foundation is faulty.

So, how do you train productively? The answer is simple; think of all the benefits you will derive by staying fit. For example, you will feel energized, reduce stress, diminish depression, and of course look fabulous. You will have that “glow” which can only be generated from the inside, out. You will also have a sense of self-satisfaction, having accomplished something that will help you be more productive in your work and a more vibrant person overall. That alone will provide you with the confidence and enthusiasm to keep training.

As you go through your exercise routines remember to maintain a flowing pace from movement to movement. Breathe fully to get the oxygen into the lungs, and exhale to remove the CO2. It becomes a form of meditation for the body and mind, while kick starting your endorphins (the feel good hormones). Pay attention to the correct form of the movements and the muscles being worked. Become very aware of the muscles of your body, and how they all function together. Focus on your workout and try not to get distracted or get engaged into conversations with others. Remember, this is YOUR time to work on YOU. Save the chat until you are finished with your session. The Type I people in the gym do all of this automatically; so will you with a little practice, and time.

Finally, don’t short change yourself by thinking you can grasp all of this in a few sessions. It takes some time to understand all the movements by themselves and collectively. Think of it as learning to pilot a 727-jet plane. It’s not just about learning what the controls

do. It also involves take offs, landings, in flight movements, special situations, what to do in emergency situations and so on. You should plan on at least 6 to 12 weeks of work to fully grasp the concepts and principles of proper, safe and productive exercise. An experienced and knowledgeable fitness trainer/coach is of prime importance to your success. As I point out to my clients, my personal coach gave me terrific foundation information that remains with me even today. Your life and well being is your most important asset; don’t gamble it away.

Learn from a professional.

Dennis is a certified Personal Trainer and Master Fitness Coach with over 40 years’ experience. NPC bodybuilding competitor, charity cyclist, health and fitness motivational speaker and author. Body Sculpting - Nutritional Guidance - Aquatics & Post Rehab Conditioning Web: www.dennismasonfitness.com Email: dennis@dennismasonfitness.com Phone: 760-219-5877 Home Base: World Gym Palm Springs Join Dennis on his internet radio program, Fitness & More, on demand at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/FitnessAndMore Also on Facebook and Twitter as fitnessradio. Join Dennis on his internet radio program, FITNESS & MORE, on demand at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/FitnessAndMore Also on Facebook and Twitter as fitnessradio.

APRIL, 2015 35

WELLNESS

THE GAYBORHOOD… NOT SO GAY?

BY DR. KENNETH TOTH, BA, MAT, DC, RN, CPT

All over the country, the once fabulous “gayborhoods” are disappearing into the sinkhole of gentrified hetero-normativity. From Provincetown and New York, all across the country to Los Angeles, there seems to be some kind of homogenization taking place. Well, I guess that goes with the territory of so-called “acceptance” by the dominant culture, doesn’t it?

Perhaps we should be more vigilant and not rest on our laurels quite yet just because the bans against same-sex marriages are falling down one by one. Long overdue? Yes. Does it stand as the sterling symbol for equality? Hardly.

Although improving, there is still plenty of hate and actual political direction spewing from pulpits of such places as tax-exempt religious organizations that continue to drive the writhing, but slowly dying, monster of hate, bigotry and scapegoating.

Are we losing our identity in some manner? By pursuing headlong towards the holy grail of hetero-normativity, are we in fact destroying our “labor union” that provides an organizational presence to unite and push forward with total equal rights?

Let’s see. Hm…. The last time I noticed, there are at least 30 states that permit an employer to terminate an employee, that s (he) even suspects to be LGBT. The mere suspicion, mind you, is an adequate acid test and legal protection for the bigoted, haters and scapegoaters.

It seems that many gays have fallen into unwittingly forming their own “police forces” to coerce others of the tribe into being more and more “straight acting” and “straight thinking”, whatever that means.

When a person tries to be someone or something (s) he is not, s (he) is not mentally healthy because it is forced. Is that not the same scientific argument we have advanced to those who think sexual orientation is a matter of choice? How many of us are still trying to pretend to be straight in order to achieve some perception of acceptance or to continue being able to put bread on the table?

Every time I go to another brunch or whatever, I see way too many guys who have become terribly out-of-shape, unhealthy, and even sharply critical of pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Often times, the more sickly and obviously unhealthy they are, it seems the larger and more expensive their houses and cars are. And the more they are aspiring to be “straight acting”. Is there some kind of connection between how much stuff that can be put on display or “shown off” and the perceived need to be more and more hetero-normative?

I’m ashamed to report that at the last soiree I attended, the only people who were obviously fit were the bartender and myself. The rest were in varying stages of denial regarding the usually positive connection between looking physically great and possessing fabulous health! There were cigarettes, drinks aplenty, terribly unhealthy “food”, and stomachs belying both deep organ and superficial fat (which, incidentally, is absolutely correlative with increasing cardiovascular, kidney, and liver pathologies).

“What are these guys thinking?” I silently asked myself. How did this happen? The cool bartender and I exchanged subtle, but very knowing, facial expressions that instantly conveyed our utter disbelief and amazement!

If there had been a TV Network camera on me, I would have closed with “What are you thinking?”

Dr. Kenneth Toth, BA, MAT, DC, RN, CPT holds multiple degrees and credentials as a Science Educator, Chiropractor, Registered Nurse, and Personal Trainer. He is currently limiting his professional activities to PERSONAL TRAINING / Nutritional Coaching, and accepts new clients exclusively at WORLD GYM PALM SPRINGS. You may contact Dr. Ken at 949-235-9408 or ken@kentothfitness.com For more information on Dr. Ken’s results-producing approach to personal training, please visit his website at www.KenTothFitness.com

APRIL, 2015 37

38 THESTANDARDPS.COM April

HEALTHY

EATS

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET

GOOD CHOICE

A healthy diet can be the foundation of a healthy life. While there are many food choices and diet options, one diet consistently grabs the attention of researchers.

“The Mediterranean diet has been, and continues to be, studied widely,” says physician assistant Tricia A. Howard, a faculty member at South University, Savannah’s College of Health Professions. “I would recommend considering the Mediterranean diet to anyone who wants to make a healthy lifestyle change.”

The Mediterranean diet is named after the geographical part of the world where most people consume plentiful amounts of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, nuts and fish. “This is a diet high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, which have many important health benefits,” explains Howard.

Some of the benefits of the Mediterranean diet can be seen quickly. Howard says many patients see improvement in cholesterol levels and begin to lose weight within a few months of adopting the diet. Numerous research studies show that the long-term benefits include a decreased risk of heart disease and some types of cancer.

But Howard cautions that the Mediterranean diet is not about quick fixes. Instead, it is a lifestyle change that you need to follow consistently for years in order to reap all the benefits. “To get the many health benefits numerous researchers have found come with this diet, you must commit to it,” Howard explains. “Following this diet and benefiting from it is really about deciding that you are ready to take control of your health and about being willing to make substantial changes in how you eat and what you cook.

“A lot of wonderful foods are included in the Mediterranean diet,” says Howard. “But, red meat is not part of the diet, and that can make it tough for some people to strictly adhere to it.”

Howard says even if you can’t strictly follow the Mediterranean diet, everyone should try to incorporate as many aspects of it as they can into their daily diet. “Substituting things in your diet that you know aren’t the healthiest choices and replacing them with foods found in the Mediterranean diet is a smart decision,” Howard says.

“And, it may help you begin the process of moving away from an unhealthy diet and towards one that has been proven repeatedly to have benefits. “Choosing foods from the Mediterranean diet is definitely a step in the right direction.”

APRIL, 2015 39

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TRAVEL

POST-WHITE PARTY SUMMER ESCAPES

BY GEORGE W. ZANDER

It the crazy month of April- Dinah, Coachella, White Party and Stagecoach. All in one month. After bidding a fond adieu to all of these visitors, it will be time to start planning your summer escape. Here are couple of destinations to get your creative travel juices flowing FORT LAUDERDALE Fort Lauderdale has been an LGBT travel destination for decades. It actually has been referred to as “Palm Springs with an Ocean…” As with our town, there is a huge resident population of our community and it is one of our larger tourist destinations.

There are over 150 LGBT run businesses, three LGBT publications, and the largest MCC congregation in the United States.

The town, which sits along side of 25 miles of one of the state’s most pristine white sand beaches was long known as a tawdry spring break paradise. That is ancient history now.

The downtown has dozens of high-rise condos, sophisticated dining and a large pedestrian friendly area, Riverwalk, is devoted to fun boutiques, eclectic restaurants and clubs.

This city is clearly one of the gayest places in America. Over 30 of the once dated 50s motels have turned into lovely gay resorts. The main street of Wilton Drive is chockablock full of gay shops and restaurants. Most of the gay bars are along that street as well. The largest gay neighborhood is Victoria Park, though the towns of Wilton Manor and Oakland Park are gay majority spots.

More than just a beach town, the Museum of Art contains impressive collections of PreColumbian, Pacific islands, and West African art. The Broward Center for the Performing

Arts presents Broadway performances along with dance, and music. A unique stop for your group will be the International Swimming Hall of fame- with hundreds of pictures of speedo glad swimmers. One of Florida’s largest Gay Prides is in March.

The beach is the thing here and there are three gay beaches. Sebastian Street is the most well known and most popular. Every day is a party. Terramar is the closest to most of the gay guesthouses. A less known quieter place is the 18th Street Beach.

The variety of gay owned accommodations is varied. They range from sophisticated inns to wild and wooly clothing optional resorts. find a style that fits your needs and prepare to have a wonderful escape.

SAN JUAN A unique and fascinating destination is the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan. The culture and cuisine is varied and festive, the spectacular beaches are beautiful, and the historic center of the city is one of our nation’s prized jewels. The city is very gay friendly, with bars, clubs and restaurants scattered about.

Condado , the tourist district, Historic San Juan and Santurce are the more concentrated gay neighborhoods. Accommodations are varied-

from ultra upscale resorts to inexpensive guesthouses. Other than sunning, there is a wide range of outdoor activities. And for those of you looking for a good time, there are dozens of clubs, gay and mixed, that are opened for long evenings that stay opened until dawn. Most usually include wild and fabulous salsa music.

Condado Beach is where many of gay sun worshipers are hanging. And after the beach time, folks pour into the district that has recently become the leading Caribbean destination for a sophisticated travel experience. The sense of hipness here is greater than in any other part of San Juan.

The new chic resorts such as La Concha and newly opened Condado Vanderbilt are starting to make world travelers pay attention.

It is also, along with Old San Juan, the neighborhood for dining. Puerto Rico is the culinary capital of the region, with its amazing mix Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino ingredients. You can find food in all venues from dives to upscale.

Puerto Rico might be seen as an exotic paradise, but it is a US territory, no passport needed, and the locals are “English tolerant!

APRIL, 2015 41

ART VIEW THE WOODMAN SHIMKO GALLERY The Woodman Shimko Gallery is not about representing any specific coast or continent from the east to the west, instead it is all encompassing. He selects artists of abstract and representational paintings, and sculpture, that evoke an individualistic feeling similar to Shimko’s tables of conjoined shoji screens with pipe wrenches. His designer elements bring not only continents together, but also people of every walk of life.

Owner Woody Shimko says, “My basis for selecting art, comes from a feeling I have. I always think if I want it in my home, I want it in the gallery. Over the years of having a gallery here in Palm Springs and for years in Provincetown, Massachusetts, I have found that regional art is not my way of selecting art. Art to me does not have to be regional; it’s the emotion you feel, either East Coast or West Coast. People move...”

And Shimko understands what it is like to be on the move. This is how he developed the vintage looking shoji tables from screens. “After working in the design field for many years in New York, I moved to Japan for 15 years. Like many people, I collect things. So the flea markets and antique stores in and around Tokyo were where my days off were spent. I collected many shoji screens, loving the Japanese craftsmanship but having no idea what I would do with 40 or 50 of them. Not wanting a total Asian feel, I used industrial materials to add pipe wrenches; car jacks and whatever else I thought would not take away but would add to the vintage beauty of the screens. The reaction to the industrial materials has been great in Palm Springs. It blends the old with something totally different. People say how shocked they are seeing pipe wrenches for table legs. They are impressed.”

Upon entering Woodman Shimko Gallery one has a relaxed feeling, which is exactly what Shimko aimed for. He loves and collects art, so the gallery is a way for him to share that special energy. Shimko says, “When I opened my gallery I wanted it to look different than others. I cannot paint, I cannot draw, but I can design and I want the gallery to have a different look, an extension of where I live. I want people to feel comfortable here, a warmth but also where the art and the environment become one. Where one does not deter from the other but where they blend and add emotions or comfort, whichever someone feels when they walk in.”

CASSANDRA COMPLEX

Woodman/Shimko Gallery PS/PTown www.woodmanshimkogallery.com MICHAEL RUFFINI

42 THESTANDARDPS.COM

ART VIEW

GABE FERNANDEZ

WOOD BOXES BY JEFF LEE

CASSANDRA COMPLEX

WOODY SHIMKO

CHRISTOPHER SOUSA

APRIL, 2015 43

BEAT BOX

DANCE BEATS SPRING INTO ACTION

BY JIMMY NEWSUM

Flowers aren’t the only things blooming this spring. New beats by some of the leaders of dance are popping up all over. Here are the top tracks and remixes being played right now.

jump the gun, I am the boom boom gun”. Adores’ vocals, along with the track’s menacing piano melody, sinisterly clever rhymes, and synth electro all pull together to make pure brilliance.

“Secrets” TIESTO & KSHMR FEATURING VASSY (Musical Freedom Records) Powerhouse Aussie-born soulstress Vassy arrived to Winter Music Party this year with guns blazing. Like her previous tune, “Bad” (by David Guetta), “Secrets” (with Tiesto) is hands-high-in-the-air fun. And while I hesitate to use the most abused word in dance reviews these days, there’s really only one way to properly describe the song: epic. From the very first second, when Vassy sings, “Oh, won’t you stay for a while?” and then promises to whisk us on a ride if we’ll keep her secret, you can’t help fall under her spell. We hop on her coaster and slowly start the ascent up, up, up into the vast sky.

Then it happens: the beat drops, giving way to a gasp-worthy orgy of stadium-sized synthesizers and grinding electronica. Pure joy!

“Game of Thrones” ANDRE XCELLENCE (American Commission) The latest single from this pop rapper is a high-powered club banger about the games people play in their quest for love. The track that manages to name-check everyone from Hollywood little person Peter Dinklage to musician John Mayer (even Nintendo and Pop-Tarts) is reminiscent of Azealia Banks’ “212”, where rap-meetsEDM in a tightly bound, lyrically clever tune. The title, of course, pays homage to the HBO fantasy drama series and it’s not-to-bemissed music video features RuPaul’s Drag Race alums Manila Luzon and Courtney Act in a fierce dance battle developed and created by famed Haus of GaGa choreographer Michael Silas. Shirtless Andrew Christian underwear models Noah Wright and Pablo Hernandez appear in the video too, for some extra eye-candy. Of course, in the end, Andre Xcellence reigns supreme over all with this sure-fire hit.

“Jump The Gun” ADORE DELANO (Sidecar Records) In the seventh single from her Till Death Do Us Party album, Adore Delano proves once again that she knows what this generation of restless, pleasure-seeking clubgoers from across all genders and cultures want today. Theme-wise, it’s bad-girl fun: a sexually driven banger that encourages fans to embrace the unconventional. It’s something Ke$ha or Miley might release. In fact, the part where Adore sings “Jump the gun, I got the boom boom bang” seems to be a nod to Ke$ha’s “Boom Boom Bang”, but it’s not. It’s actually borrowed from RuPaul’s Drag Race Gia Gunn’s iconic quote, “I don’t

44 THESTANDARDPS.COM

“Journal 8” CARY NOKEY (Rob Fusari Productions) The debut album from Cary NoKey plays like an audio diary.

In it, the Grammy-winning producer, Rob Fusari (best known for discovering Lady Gaga and his hits with Whitney Houston and Beyoncé), reveals how success left him feeling unfulfilled. Turns out, his road to enlightenment began by stepping out of his male persona and embracing his feminine side. There are elements of Queen,

BEAT BOX Radio Gaga, and Steely Dan in his album with each song delivering a personal message meant to inspire and entertain. “No 1 Can No” is about not being to hide from one’s true self. “My Name is Lisa” is about the different personalities that developed within Rob at an early age as a possible coping mechanism to escape a tormented childhood. Then there’s “The Hardest Sh*t”, where Eagles meets The Cure, for an in-your-face track about bouncing back and accepting life’s challenges. Overall, the album shines in its authenticity.

“Shite” TUNNELMENTAL EXPERIMENTAL ASSEMBLY (Dauman Music) If you want to get your freak on, look no further. Tunnelmental Experimental Assembly, a new underground group from the UK, is Midnight Oil meets Blue Man Group. In their first single to release to the states, they blend pounding bass-drum beats with screaming synths and hypnotic chants; then whip them together at warp-speed tempo for frenzied dance floor banger that will leave you spinning.

There are five mixes in all – personal favorites are the Tony Byker and Shinola remixes – but each radiates with passion, wit and pure adrenaline fun.

APRIL, 2015 45

the3D’s RESTAURANTS WANG’S IN THE DESERT 424 S Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 325-WANG (9264) www.wangsinthedesert.com NATURE’S HEALTH FOOD & CAFE 555 S Sunrise Way Suite 301 Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 323-9487 www.natureshealthfoodcafe.com SHERMAN’S DELI & BAKERY 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-1199 www.shermansdeli.com HACIENDA CANTINA & BEACH CLUB 1555 S. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-778-8954 www.haciendacantina.com AZUL RESTAURANT 369 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-5533 www.azultapaslounge.com TINTO 1800 E. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-323-1711 palmsprings.tintorestaurant.com COPLEY’S ON PALM CANYON 621 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-9555 www.copleyspalmsprings.com

46 THESTANDARDPS.COM

DINE | DRINK | DANCE { Coachella Valley } WORKSHOP KITCHEN & BAR 800 N. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-459-3451 www.workshoppalmsprings.com LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO 200 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-5858 www.lulupalmsprings.com POMME FRITE 256 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 778-3727 www.pomme-frite.com DISH 1107 N. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-322-7171 www.dishcreativecuisine.com THAI SMILE PALM SPRINGS 100 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 320-5503 www.thaismilepalmsprings.com TRIO RESTAURANT 707 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 864-8746 www.triopalmsprings.com THE TROPICALE 330 E Amado Road Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 866-1952 www.thetropicale.com

BARS AND NIGHT CLUBS

ZIN AMERICAN BISTRO 198 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 322-6300 www.pszin.com

HUNTERS NIGHTCLUB 302 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-323-0700 www.huntersnightclubs.com

BIRBA 622 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-5678 www.birbaps.com

TOUCAN’S TIKI LOUNGE 2100 North Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-416-7584 www.toucanstikilounge.com

CHEEKYS 622 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-7595 www.cheekysps.com

PURPLE ROOM 1900 E. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-322-4422 www.purpleroompalmsprings.com

EL MIRASOL 140 E Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 323-0721 www.elmirasolrestaurants.com RICK’S RESTAURANT 1973 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 416-0090 www.ricksrestaurant.biz PINOCCHIO IN THE DESERT 134 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-322-3776 www.pinocchiops.com

CHILL BAR 217 E. Arenas Road PS 760-327-1079 STREETBAR 224 E. Arenas Road PS 760-320-1266 www.psstreetbar.com THE TOOL SHED 600 E. Sunny Dunes Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.3299 www.toolshed-ps.com SPURLINE VIDEO LOUNGE 200 Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760-778-4326 www.spurline.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ART + DESIGN mayakalabic.com

www.TrioPalmSprings.com

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APRIL, 2015 47

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EVENTS CALENDAR

APR 16 - 18 OPEN CALL TALENT COMPETITION THE MCCALLUM THEATRE, PALM DESERT The Coachella Valley’s best vocalists, dancers, instrumentalists and novelty performers will appear on stage in four performances; all performances are open to the public. Open Call 2015 will showcase 98 performers in 19 acts that were selected by audition. Where else can you see a nine-year-old organist, seventyfive year old vocalist and fifty-three year old magician performing on the same stage? For schedule and ticket info visit www.mccallumtheatre.com

APR 17 - 26 PALM SPRINGS PREMIERE OF MISS GULCH RETURNS! DESERT ENSEMBLE THEATRE. PALM SPRINGS Desert Ensemble Theatre concludes its fourth season beginning on April 17 with a two-weekend run of Miss Gulch Returns!, Fred Barton’s cabaret cult classic about the feisty Kansas spinster from The Wizard of Oz. Award-winning Palm Springs musical comedian Jerome Elliott stars. Tony Padilla is Director, Charlie Creasy is Music Director, and Michael Holmes of The Judy Show adds his unique perspective as Associate Director. The show plays at the Pearl McManus Theater (Palm Springs Woman’s Club) at 314 S. Cahuilla Road.

For Further info call 760-565-2476 or at www.detctheatre.org.

APR 24 THRU MAY 24 FOR THE LOVE OF BROADWAY SERIES. THE PURPLE ROOM, PALM SPRINGS

48 THESTANDARDPS.COM

Purple Room Restaurant and Stage in Palm Springs, in association with producer Dick Taylor, is thrilled to announce a very special For the Love of Broadway threeshow series this spring featuring renowned stars of Broadway. Jo Anne Worley of The Drowsy Chaperone and TV show Laugh-In, Dale Kristien of Phantom of the Opera and Bill Hutton of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat together in “A Salute to Andrew Lloyd Webber” and Carole Cook of 42nd Street. The performers will sing many of the songs they performed on Broadway and tell stories of their careers, all with loads of fun and laughter. Each show in the series will have a Friday and Saturday evening performance and a special “Brunch and Broadway” show on Sunday. For info visit www.purpleroompalmsprings.com

MAY 1-3 PS HOT RODEO. PALM SPRINGS Enjoy a weekend of western rodeo and “country fair” festivities while visiting the fun and beautiful paradise of Palm Springs.

Our Friday Pool Party with the Cowboys and Cowgirls of the Hot Rodeo is not to be missed! Kick up your heels under the stars at our Saturday Night Dance at Spurline Video Lounge! Don’t miss out! This event will be even HOTTER than last year! For complete schedule visit www.psrodeo.org

DBA APRIL EVENTS APRIL 6 Mixer 6:00pm – 8:00pm Hosted by Palm Springs Wedding Chapel Location: TBA APRIL 20 Mixer 6:00pm – 8:00pm Hosted by Son Cabinetry 611 S. Palm Canyon Dr. #5 Palm Springs For more info visit www.desertbusinessassociation.org

ONGOING >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> NOW THRU JULY FIRST WEDNESDAY ART WALK, BACKSTREET ART DISTRICT PALM SPRINGS Please join us for the First Wednesday Artwalk at the Backstreet Art District. Enjoy beautiful art and meet the artists. Located off highway 111, behind the Mercedes Benz Dealership, on South Cherokee Way. www.backstreetartdistrict.com

SUNDAYS THE SUNDAY BAND W/ SPECIAL GUESTS. PAPPY & HARRIET’S PIONEERTOWN The Sunday Rock + Roll Service is a Pappy and Harriet’s institution celebrating the healing powers of music and community!

Every weekend the club’s favorite singers and players get together and trade songs.

Come join us to see Victoria Williams, Gar Robertson, Carol Ann Crandall, Damian Lester, Bob Furgo, Rachel Dean, Ryan Norman, Caleb Winn, Danny Frankel and other talented locals

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EVENTS CALENDAR performing for your drinking and dancing pleasure. With a come-as-you-are vibe, Sundays have seen great special guests like Robert Plant, Lucinda Williams, The Jayhawks, Rickie Lee Jones to name a few. www.pappyandharriets.com

$9 Bottomless Mimosas (juice included), a single $2 mimosa or a $5 Bloody Mary with brunch, during which both our full breakfast and lunch menus are available. Also join us for Sunday Funday Weekly Tea Dance 4pm-Close! www.oscarspalmsprings.com

COPA In a throwback to old Palm Springs’ nightclubs, the Copa is fashioned around an elevated performing stage and a stunning u-shaped bar lined with leather barstools, upholstered booths, and gilded cocktail tables. Sink into the sexy lounge, sip a cocktail, and enjoy the lineup of local and guest entertainers. For weekly schedule visit www.coparoomps.com

LIPSTICK AT COPA Thursday nights at Copa just got a little hotter with a new show at the new showroom inside Copa. The Hot New Lipstick show is a raucous affair where the audience is encouraged to participate in singing, clapping, dancing, partying and celebrating special events. Featuring performances by Charles Herrera, Pinkie Meringue Shimmer, Marina Mac, Sassy Ross, Dion Khan, and Cherilyn, and emceed by the fabulous Bella Da Ball, this show will not disappoint. For ticket info and schedule of performers visit www.coparoomps.com

THE PURPLE ROOM Supper club, drinks and live music. It’s where Palm Springs plays. Great entertainment nightly and dinner specials. You never know whom you might see at The Purple Room.

For monthly schedule and info visit http://purpleroompalmsprings.com

OSCAR’S CAFÉ & BAR Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs on the corner of Tahquitz Canyon Way and Indian Canyon, Oscar’s has a huge outdoor patio with lots of umbrellas for shade and misters to keep you cool, too.

You can beat the heat any time of year and enjoy the views of Palm Springs. And our patio is dog friendly for your leashed four-legged family members! On Saturday and Sunday from 8am – 2pm, enjoy a

HUNTERS NIGHTCLUBS® Palm Springs, Palm Springs’ go-to gay bar and dance club, has been leading the way in full-out fun for 13 lucky years now! We enjoy having the desert’s most sought-after and friendly DJs, full-on themed events, and a staff that has it all without the attitude. And of course, we are proud to hold the longest happy hour in the entire Valley. Remember: Size Matters. Come by for our happy hour from 10am – 7pm. Yes, that’s right: 9 hours long! For a list of all events and specials visit www.huntersnightclubs.com

SUNDAYS “The Playgirls” at Toucans Tiki Lounge featuring Tommi Rose. Performances 8, 10pm.

These darling Divas of drag really deliver with their very own brand of entertainment to packed houses. Special guests appear weekly.

DJ in the sound booth. Every Sunday Complete list of events www.toucanstikilounge.com Wang’s in the Desert. The weekly Wang’s Live Entertainment series features the best in local and regional musical talents.

Guests can relax from cabaret and Broadway show performances to upbeat, jazzy showcases on the Zen Patio, with its beautiful stone outdoor fireplace, giant red Buddha statue and lush tropical surroundings. The Sunday series is becoming the new performance showcase for weekends and holidays in downtown Palm Springs. It’s the perfect, casual venue for great music, cool cocktails and of course, a fantastic crowd.

For more information about Wang’s in the Desert, visit www.wangsinthedesert.com TUESDAYS Bella da Ball Cabaret Variety Dinner Revue at Azul features a different show each week with a cast of male and female vocalists and drag personalities. The highly popular show is hosted and produced by Palm Springs’ area social ambassador, Bella da Ball, and features music-comedysong-dance-costuming-headdresses-photo ops-door prizes-audience participation and more. The 95+ minute production features musical numbers ranging from show tunes to country to pop and everything in between.

Don’t miss the fun every Tuesday at 7:30pm! No cover.

FOR A COMPLETE CALENDAR OF EVENTS VISIT OUR MEDIA PARTNER, GAY DESERT GUIDE. CLICK ON LOGO

APRIL, 2015 49

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EVENTS CALENDAR

APR 19 - 23

APR 16 - 19

CHERRY 2015 WASHINGTON, DC Cherry is a yearly charity dance music event that has raised more than $988,000 for Washington, DC, HIV/AIDS service and prevention. Your support of Cherry contributes to the efforts of passionate health and social advocates at the forefront of the DC LGBT community. www.cherryfund.org

CINEMA ST. LOUIS QFEST ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI QFest uses the art of contemporary gay cinema to spotlight the lives of LGBTQ people and celebrate queer culture. The 2015 event will feature an eclectic slate of contemporary LGBTQ-themed feature films, documentaries, and shorts. www.cinemastlouis.org

has to offer. Phoenix Phurfest has been around for 12 years. During the past eleven Phurfests, almost 2500 bears and buddies from over 10 countries have enjoyed the warmth and friendliness of our city; thereby, making Phurfest weekend quite popular amount the bears. www.phurfest.org

APR 20 - 27

APR 11 - 12

PHOENIX GAY PRIDE PHOENIX, ARIZONA The 35th Annual Phoenix Pride Festival and is a two day celebration designed to bring our diverse LGBTQ and allied communities together for a weekend of camaraderie and celebration of our past, present and future while raising funds for the Phoenix Pride Community Foundation and programs. The Phoenix Pride Festival attracts over 30,000 attendees during the two-day celebration and features over 150 entertainment performances on 5 stages. www.phoenixpride.org

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R FAMILY VACATIONS THE BROADWAY CRUISE NEW YORK, NY A gay cruise with your whole family. Join us on The Broadway Cruise sailing from the theater capital of the world to Florida and the Bahamas. From the theme parks of Orlando area to the gorgeous beaches of the Bahamas, this ideal family cruise has something for everyone. This exciting cruise has it all: amazing entertainment, spectacular beaches, and theme parks. This cruise is perfect all ages‌ anyone who loves theater‌ no experience necessary. www.thebroadwaycruise.com

APR 30 - MAY 4

PHURFEST 2015 PHOENIX, ARIZONA Join the Bears of the West for Phurfest Weekend. Enjoy fun in the sun, a chance to meet new friends, and explore what Phoenix

MAY 1 - 3

TEXAS GAY RODEO HOUSTON, TEXAS The Texas Gay Rodeo Association is a Texas non-profit corporation that elevates the image of women and men in rodeo. The group promotes and stages an annual rodeo in Texas and to encourage the participation of its members in western-related events and engages in charitable activities. www.tgra.org

If you have an event you want to promote please email us at info@thestandardps.com

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EVENTS CALENDAR Parade will be colorful as always and PLU would like to encourage everyone watching to join the end of the parade and follow it to Loma Park on the beach for a ‘Party in the Park’ stage event that will include International DJ’s, live shows and bands. www.beachpatong.com

participating bars, clubs, discos, shops, saunas , hostels and hotels will be organizing a wide variety of activities and parties with a fetish theme. Well known DJ´s and producers consolidate the event providing the perfect ambience for each and every session and event. www.sleazymadrid.com

APR 2 - 7

EASTER LEATHER AND FETISH WEEK BERLIN, GERMANY The Berlin Leather und Fetish Treffen is a yearly party weekend during Easter.

Berlin turns into fetish for the wildest and most kinky Week ever. Gays from all over Europe pack there leather, rubber, skingear, uniform or other fetish clothing and fly to Berlin for the BLF | ECMC Leather & Fetish WEEK. Lots of parties and events are on the agenda this week including Fetish- and Sexpartys, the traditional BLF Leatherdinner at AXEL Hotel, the Townrally, the BLF Leatherboat and of course the TWO HIGHLIGHTS, the official contest of GERMAN MR. LEATHER 2013 and WILD BOAR, the Mega Dance-CruiseFetishparty at GOYA. www.blf.de

APR 24 - 26

LONDON LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL. LONDON, ONTARIO, CANADA The London Lesbian Film Festival is a celebratory gathering at which we project our images, challenge our politics, and reflect upon our lives. The festival aims to portray the richness and diversity of lesbian experiences and to strengthen our communities. www.llff.ca

APR 29 - MAY 3

MR. GAY WORLD CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA The competition takes place over an intense four days and includes various challenges including photo, sports, fashion show/run way, swim suit, public speaking and a local outreach challenge where MGW is able to work with a local charity to give back to the community in hosting the competition.

The delegate chosen to represent his peers on a global stage will not only have the inner beauty of confidence, self assurance, charisma and natural leadership abilities but he will also take care in his outward beauty. www.mrgayworld.com

APR 29 - MAY 3 APR 19 - 26

PHUKET PRIDE PHUKET, THAILAND With events being run all over Phuket that are open to anyone, Gay, Lesbian, Transgender, Straight or Undecided. Phuket Loves You Club would like to invite everyone to come together and join the events. The

SLEAZY MADRID MADRID, SPAIN As usual the May 1st holiday long weekend in Spain´s capital city marks the anticipated return of the number one gay fetish event.

With 15 years of experience under its belt the event is prominent in the gay fetish circuit.

Madrid´s gay scene will be inundated with visitors come to take part in the event. The

Our international media partner, FNQ Magazine, Cairns gay lifestyle and travel publication that gives Australia and the world a taste of gay life in the tropics, sponsors the International Calendar. www.go2gaycairns.com

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I got my life back online.

Scott, D.A.P. client

D.A.P. treats and supports the whole person My addiction led me into homelessness and I thought I had nowhere to turn. But D.A.P. helped me see there was a way back, if I was willing to do the work. Now, I have five years of sobriety, have finished four years of college with two degrees and a promising career...but best of all, I have peace-of-mind again. Now, I’m volunteering my time here in D.A.P.’s computer lab because it’s time to “pay it forward” to others who might need a little help. Just like I did.

This and more...all under one roof

Thanks to your generous support, Desert AIDS Project has been saving lives for 30 years.

Please continue to help by donating at desertAIDSproject.org, joining one of our annual giving programs, or by saving the date for one of our upcoming fundraising events.

Dinner at My Place | March 22 - April 2, 2015 Dining Out for Life | April 30, 2015 Queen of the Desert | May 27, 2015

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desertAIDSproject.org

PHOTO REWIND STEVE HARRIS RETIREMENT PARTY PHOTO COURTESY OF KASEY SCOTT

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PHOTO REWIND MIZELL MOTOWN GALA PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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Harvey MILK Diversity Breakfast COACHELLA VALLEY MAY 22, 2015 Hilton Palm Springs 9:30AM - 11AM

Honoring

Geoff KORS HARVEY B. MILK Leadership Award

For tickets or sponsorship visit bit.ly/2015milk Platinum Sponsor

outlook DESERT

Gold Sponsors

Boyd & Lisette Haigler Hilton Palm Springs Bloom in the Desert Ministries UCC Borrego Community Health Foundation CCBC Resort Desert AIDS Project

Silver Sponsors

The LGBT Center of the Desert Geoff Kors and James Williamson

Table Sponsors

Desert Business Association Emerald Kingdom Desert Regional Medical Center Equality California

Gray Public Relations & Marketing

Greater Palm Springs Pride The Desert Stonewall Democrats Palm Springs Human Rights Commission Raymond Gregory & Eric Ornelas

Student Table Sponsors

Desert Business Association, Hunters, Steven Henke, Tom Stansbury & Larry Fechter sponsor list as of 3/23/15

PHOTO REWIND RED DRESS PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

APRIL, 2015 57

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