GED MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024 by gedmagazine

FROM THE EDITOR

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

As the year comes to a close, we reflect with gratitude on the wonderful journey we’ve shared with you, our readers, advertisers, and supporters, in 2024. Your support has been the cornerstone of our success, and we extend our heartfelt thanks.

GED Magazine is more than a mere collection of pages; it’s a community brought to life by talented team of individuals, ALL members of our LGBTQ community. Each story, article, and image is a testament to the shared passion for knowledge, creativity, and exploration. As we ring in the new year, let’s celebrate the love, resilience, and diversity that make our community vibrant, and continue to make our voices heard.

All of us at GED Magazine wish you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with peace, prosperity, and the simple joys that make life beautiful. Thank you for being an integral part of our magazine family, and we hope that you will continue to enjoy the magazine each month, and join us for any or all of the exciting events we have planned for 2025.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @GEDmagazine and tag us in your photos to be featured… #GEDmag.

— MICHAEL WESTMAN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

MARKETING

FEATURES WRITER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Westman

Cesar A Reyes

Christopher Jackson Alexander Rodriguez

Daniel Hirsch

Ethylina Canne

Jeffrey James Keyes

Michael Westman

Stan Jenson

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES info@gedmag.com

DISTRIBUTION Pride In Media

ADVERTISING SALES

Eric Davis

Southern CA Account Manager eric@gedmag.com

Jim Delyea

Northern CA Account Manager jim@gedmag.com

NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com

PUBLISHER 800.818.0480 info@gedmag.com

Advertisers in GED Magazine acknowledge that they do business in the spirit of cooperation, fairness and service, maintaining a high level of integrity and responsibility. Providers of products or services are fully and solely responsible for same as advertised. GED Magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for improper or negligent business practices by advertisers. The appearance of any person, model, business or organization in this publication, by name, advertisement or photograph is not an indication of sexual orientation.

Advertisers and their agencies assume all responsibility and legal liability for the content of their advertisements in GED Magazine. Publisher assumes no liability for safe-keeping or return of unsolicited art, manuscripts or other materials.

GED Magazine reserves the right to edit all material for clarity, length and content. All contents are copyright Bent Share Entertainment, LLC. All rights reserved. Content may be reproduced with written permission.

GED Magazine assumes no liability for any claims or representations contained anywhere in this magazine and reserve the right to cancel or refuse advertising at publisher’s discretion.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CRAWFORDS – Palm Springs:

This hoot of a gay Christmas extravaganza has been kicking around gay theatres since its NYC premier in 2000 when drag legend Joey Arias played Joan Crawford. The story is based on a true event. By 1944, Joan Crawford had become “Box Office Poison.” She was actually required to audition for the lead in Mildred Pierce – a huge insult for a star of her caliber. She concocted a scheme to have columnist Hedda Hopper interview her in a live radio broadcast from her Brentwood mansion on Christmas Eve.

Richard Winchester and Mark Sargent used this incident as the basis for a play but included many other female film divas of the period by imagining that next-doorneighbor, Gary Cooper, is having a huge Christmas party and stars keep getting the wrong address. In addition to Joan and her children Christine and Chrisopher, we meet Baby Jane Hudson, Judy Garland, Gloria Swanson, Carmen Miranda and a host of other familiar icons. This yuletide season, Coachella Valley’s Desert Theatreworks has added heavy-duty star power for the show’s fifth desert outing, and I’m stoked. Palm Springs Superstar (and GED columnist) Ethylina Canne will play Joan Crawford in a performance that will leave Faye Dunaway’s Mommie Dearest in the dust. In fact, re-watching Mommie Dearest and Whatever Happened to Baby Jane would be a good background for seeing this show, but most queens can already quote both movies at length. And yes, when the “Wire Hangers” line comes – as it must – the audience usually joins the anguished Joan as she screams it out to her children.

Other highlights in the cast – and a true triumph of casting for director Lance Phillips – include Kornbread “The Snack” Jete from Season 14 of RuPaul’s Drag Race; Vanity Halston as Judy Garland; Stan Jenson as Mae West; and Sister Burna Cross as Carmen Miranda. Most of the actors/actresses play more than one character, causing the stage to burst with what seems to be a never-ending parade of glamorous stars in outlandish wigs and seasonal finery. Oh, and be sure to use the powder room right before the show because there are laughs. Oh boy, there are plenty of laughs in this 90-minute show!

Christmas with the Crawfords will return to the Riviera Hotel in Palm Springs (formerly Margaritaville) from December 13 -23. Get your tickets now at dtworks.org or call 760-980-1455.

ONCE UPON A MATTRESS – Los Angeles: Another show that I’m eager to see is Center Theatre Company’s production of Once Upon a Mattress. This hilarious musical is based on the fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea” wherein a prince is in search of a suitable princess. One stormy night, a mysterious woman appears at the castle door and tells the prince that she is indeed a princess, but the prince’s mother has her doubts so she places a hard, uncooked pea under twenty mattresses, knowing that a true princess will never be able to sleep with the pea under her. The show first played on Broadway in 1959 starring Carol Burnett as the princess. The most recent revival was a New York concert version in February of this year, starring Sutton Foster as Princess Winifred and Michael Urie as Prince Dauntless. It transferred to Broadway in May and played through November 30. It is now moving to Los Angeles’s Ahmanson Theatre for four weeks beginning December 10. Sutton Foster and Michael Urie are each worth the price of a ticket. The music by Mary Rodgers (Richard’s daughter), lyrics by Marshall Barer, and book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer are all aimed for laughs (thankfully they didn’t try to get too serious about such a silly fairy tale).

I’m excited to have a Broadway production transfer directly from Broadway to Los Angeles and urge as many of you as can to support this move by attending this production. I would love to see it happen more often, and don’t think I will ever grow bored with Sutton Foster or Michael Urie. Once Upon a Mattress plays at the Ahmanson Theatre from December 10 – January 5. Tickets and further information at CenterTheatreGroup.org THIS HILARIOUS MUSICAL IS BASED ON THE FAIRY TALE

WICKED – Los Angeles: At the expense of possible fairy tale overload, not only is Wicked the most anticipated movie of the season, but the stage version of the musical that started it all is returning to the Hollywood Pantages for two months. When the musical opened on Broadway in 2023, it was produced by Universal Stage Productions with an eye towards developing interest in the musical, then capitalizing with a film version. The plan seems to be working, though I doubt that anyone involved could have foreseen that the musical, loosely based on a novel by Gregory Maguire, would still be going strong on Broadway in its twenty-first year. In fact, it is currently the fourth longest running show on Broadway, fortunately acing out the vile Cats!

I think I saw Wicked five times in the first decade it was around, but it has now been a long time since I have seen it so I have my tickets. It truly is one of the best Broadway shows ever produced for its combination of great music, colorful sets and costumes, and a plot which sends you home ruminating over how the characters in this forerunner of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz become the more familiar characters in L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel. For example, the name of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, is virtually a contraction of L. Frank Baum, and there are easter eggs large and small that tie this story to the original source material.

For better or worse, the stage production has become a bit of a rock concert in that young audiences applaud the house lights going out at the beginning of the show (a behavior I detest) and continue to scream at every song as if it were a Justin Bieber concert. But you know what?

I am delighted that a Broadway show is not being treated as a stuffy, sacred cow, so I’ll be gladly joining those enthusiastic teens as I re-visit the young witches when they meet as students at Shiz University. Wicked plays at the Hollywood Pantages from December 4 – February 2. Visit BroadwayinHollywood.com

DEEP INSIDE TONIGHT – San Francisco: I don’t get to San Francisco as often as I would like, but whenever I do, my visit definitely includes the New Conservatory Theatre Center. One of the nation’s longest-running gay theatre companies was founded in 1981 by Artistic Director Ed Decker, and 43 years later, he is still very actively at the helm. After entering a nondescript office building on Van Ness Avenue at Market, you descend a floor into a collection of four small theatres where magic happens year round.

This Christmas season, America’s Favorite Dragapella® Beautyshop Quartet is back with a hilarious musical newscast-run-amok! The Kinsey Sicks bring their glorious award-winning harmonies to the NCTC stage where it all began in celebration of their 30th anniversary tour. Tune in for outrageous hijinks, the wittiest of parodies, and a performance as delightful and legendary as the “girls” themselves.

I can’t tell for certain if they are the original four dolls who started the group 30 years ago, but they sure look the same (maybe with the blessing of eating well over the years). In any event, their rare combination of seamless harmonies and side-splitting comedy is as sharp as ever, and I think they may justify a quick jaunt north to San Francisco this month.

Deep Inside Tonight plays December 4 – January 5 at San Francisco’s New Conservatory Theatre Center. Visit NCTCSF.org

THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON, AMERICA’S FAVORITE DRAGAPELLA® BEAUTYSHOP QUARTET IS BACK WITH A HILARIOUS MUSICAL NEWSCAST-RUN-AMOK! IT TRULY IS ONE OF THE

AURORA FORTE MIND, BODY, AND ART

BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

She walks into a room, and all at once, this tall drink of water exudes a spark in the air, she is glamorous, plain and simple. As one of the shows that she has hosted says, she’s got the “lips, looks, and lashes.” You never know where she is going to show up next, whether she is hosting and headlining in Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and everywhere in between, or whether she is stealing the spotlight in ads for Mistr, or making a scene with Cosmo, the Queen of Melrose, or streaming for TikTok, or being photographed next to Kelly Rowland, Kerry Washington, and Chrissy Teigen to get political, or winning SoCal’s biggest stage competition show, Best in Drag, she is making her presence known. Not to mention her social media is fire. (When does this Queen sleep?) But when you are the drag daughter of Raja, you are kept to higher expectations, and Aurora does not disappoint. Don’t let her ferociously beautiful looks fool you, she’s also all heart and positivity. While other Queens may be scratching at each other, she’s focused on her career and her

brand, and it shows. We somehow found a few moments with Aurora in between gigs to chat about her career, the world of drag, sobriety, and life beyond the lashes.

Hometown: Santa Clara, California

Favorite part about doing drag?

The creative process.

Least favorite part about doing drag?

The mess that can pile up from it and having to clean it all up for the next round.

Craziest drag story?

Performing right after I had broken up with a past boyfriend, but I transmuted it into giving one of my best performances ever, getting applause at the bar that lasted 5 minutes straight, longer than our headliner that night!

What does your drag name mean to you?

Aurora represents light in darkness, a spark of brilliance. My drag name embodies my journey to bring joy, transformation, and empowerment to every-

one who watches me perform. I chose it because I wanted something that felt ethereal and radiant, like the beauty that comes after a long night—much like my own journey. I also wanted a sentimental feeling so, since I love taking naps and Disney flicks, Aurora was chosen… and Forte was driven from my vast experience in music growing up, with it referring to a climactic sound in a musical piece. So, Aurora Forte was born, a climactic wet dream.

What was your first exposure to drag?

My first real exposure to drag was watching RuPaul’s Drag Race when I was younger. Seeing queens like Raja express themselves so unapologetically was like watching superheroes—queens who owned every part of who they were. It lit something in me and made me feel like there was a space for the kind of creativity and self-expression I had inside me.

What is it about doing drag that inspires you so much?

Drag allows me to be everything and anything I want, and to share that

transformative power with others. There’s something inspiring about embodying a character that gives people the courage to live out their dreams. I feel alive when I’m in drag, and I hope my energy inspires others to chase their own passions fearlessly.

What was your first professional drag gig? How did it go?

My first professional gig was nerve-wracking yet exhilarating. I was onstage at a small bar, performing in a room full of strangers, and I remember thinking, “This is where I belong.” The applause and the energy I felt reassured me that drag was more than a passion - it was a calling.

Your strangest hobby or talent outside of drag?

I can play multiple instruments (piano, saxophone, singing, etc), but I believe I shocked everyone when I constructed a dress using origami techniques, as I used to love doing them when I was younger.

What celebrity most needs a drag makeover?

Elon Musk.

Favorite hotspot?

The Abbey in West Hollywood.

Favorite non-profit? Alliance for Housing and Healing.

What sets your drag apart from other queens?

What sets me apart is my focus on artistry and storytelling. I aim to bring elements of fashion, theater, and high concept into my drag, combining visual artistry with a narrative. My style blends vintage Hollywood glamour with unexpected, avantgarde twists, making every performance feel like a unique experience. As a sober queen, I have clarity and focus that allows me to connect with my audience on a deeper level.

How has drag changed your life?

Drag saved me. It helped me embrace every part of who I am - my

quirks, my flaws, my story. Drag gave me the courage to become my authentic self and created a platform where I can inspire others to do the same. I don’t think I’d be the person I am today without it.

You’ve won Best in Drag! What did it feel like to win, and what does the win mean most to you?

Winning felt surreal. It was like all those moments of doubt vanished in one glorious night. The win isn’t just a trophy to me, it’s a testament to the countless hours, hard work, and dedication I’ve poured into my craft. It represents validation from my community and a reminder to keep pushing boundaries. It was also my introduction to moving to LA from the Bay Area, and I was a lastminute fill in from someone who had dropped out. The entire experience was incredibly affirming that I was meant to pursue this.

Raja is your drag mother, what have you learned about the business side of drag from her?

Raja taught me that while drag is art, it’s also a business. She emphasized the importance of branding, knowing your worth, and making smart career decisions. From her, I learned to balance creativity with professionalism, to maintain my integrity, and to stay true to my vision while navigating the industry. She continuously supports me and reminds me to never mind what everyone else is doing, stay inspired, but focus on my own lane. She helps instill the value of nurturing my own growth. She is incredible and I am so lucky to be led by her.

Favorite song to perform?

“Unbreakable Smile” by Tori Kelly.

What is your after-drag ritual?

Skincare and a long, hot shower.

What’s your favorite pickup line?

“Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears.”

What are some of the biggest challenges you face as an independent drag queen?

One of the biggest challenges is managing everything myself—scheduling, promoting, creating content, booking gigs. It’s a lot to juggle, especially when you’re building a brand from scratch. But every challenge makes me stronger and teaches me to be resourceful and resilient.

Being sober in the gay community is being talked about more and more. What inspired you to lead a sober life?

I realized that I wanted clarity and authenticity in my life. My journey with sobriety is about embracing my full self without any numbing. I chose to be sober to honor my mind, my body, and my art, and it’s been a transformative journey that brings depth to my drag.

How do you handle the allure of the nightlife while being sober? Any advice for other queer people exploring their sobriety?

I remind myself why I started my sober journey in the first place. I focus on the high I get from performing and connecting with people, which feels more meaningful and lasting than anything else. For others exploring sobriety, remember you don’t have to follow anyone’s path but your own. Create your own fun and find the people who support that.

What can we expect from you in the upcoming year? What other areas of entertainment do you want to explore?

The upcoming year is about expansion. I want to dive into TV, film, and commercials, and keep pushing my brand to new heights. Expect to see more creative collaborations, stunning visuals, and maybe even some surprises in the fashion world. I’m ready to take the entertainment industry by storm.

We are thrilled to feature Aurora as our Drag Queen Centerfold for this holiday issue. If this is how she tears it up on her own, can you imagine what she would do in the Werk Room?

DEC 2024

WEDNESDAYS

6-9P

THURSDAYS SATURDAYS 6-9P 6-9P 6-9P

Brian Scott Keisha D

L CELLOVOCI

A QUEER POWERHOUSE TRIO

BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

ook out, music! There’s a new powerhouse on the scene and this trio is raising the roof around the globe. Aptly titled CelloVoci, though they are young, they are true music veterans with extensive credits as separate, consummate performers. Married couple Branden and James make up the internationally renowned cello/vocal duo. Branden has continued to wow audiences with his sweet, soaring tenor voice first becoming a household name as a finalist on America’s Got Talent. James, a master of both classical and contemporary cello has played for Idina Menzel, Olivia Newton-John, Lea Salonga, and many more. Singer Effie Passero is not just a singer, she is a master storyteller with a voice that can shift from opera to jazz, to Broadway, to rock, and everything in between. She has blossomed from her time as a semi-finalist on American Idol to her high-profile appearances with Postmodern Jukebox around

the world. YouTube has raked up millions of views featuring Effie singing her heart out. It was clearly fate that brought this queer trio together, making music that affects audiences no matter what part of life they come from.

Newly formed, they have been hitting the road with more than a few feathers in their caps with a sold-out appearance at Carnegie Hall and the release of their debut album, Happy Days. They don’t just perform well; they take you on a musical journey that covers every spectrum of emotion with their ability to master classic songs and make them their own. Did someone say mashup? They can match songs that would seem odd to pair up but fuse them together to truly reinterpret a song. Get the Kleenex box out for their rendition of You Are My Sunshine / Over the Rainbow, featured in the 11th track of their album. In the new year, they will continue their journey around the world. We caught up with them in between their many gigs.

How did you all meet?

We all met by happenstance in Puerto Vallarta, MX. We were all there during the height of the pandemic and ended up performing at a fundraiser together for the staff of one of the theaters in town. Obviously, no one was working during that time, so we all pitched in to give back. We had all heard of each other before but had never met yet- so it was serendipitous! From there, we began a series of online virtual concerts (like all of us who weren’t sure where the future was heading). Our chemistry and friendship were so immediate and organic that we kept it going! From there, we started performing live together when the world opened back up, and in a natural progression, our trio has continued to grow into what it is now.

What was it about the other that sparked immediate chemistry?

Branden & James: For us, it was Effie’s amazing vocal abilities that made us want to make music with her. We quickly realized that she could sing anything, including opera, AND with good diction of other languages, and we knew she’d be a great voice to blend with Branden’s big operatic capabilities. While that was the immediate spark, the thing that has kept it going is the fact that we are all easy-going and that keeps our working relationship fun and light. It also helps that the three of us have become great friends and enjoy spending time with each other.

Effie: For me, it was Branden & James’ kindness and genuine demeanors that made me want to work with them. Their musical talents know no bounds and speak for themselves, and this helped a ton, too. But I really value their friendship above all else, and it was a curiosity to see how our relationship would bloom that specifically led to my desire to work with them both.

How does your queer sensibility add to your music-making?

James: Great question! I won’t speak for the others but, for me, the first thing that comes to mind is a sensitivity to and awareness of emotions and creativ-

ity that is heightened in my life because I’m queer. As I’m writing I’m starting to wonder if it’s a bit “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” because perhaps these attributes are all so entwined that it’s hard to separate them. I think that being queer has taught me a lot about being comfortable in uncomfortable situations too, and this is a helpful skill as a performer when nerves kick in and you feel exposed or vulnerable.

What have the three of you learned from each other about life and music?

Effie: I learn from Branden and James every time we travel, each conversation, and especially each performance. The nuance they have, and the way they carry themselves not only as musicians but as people is very impressionable and inspirational. As a married couple, they have shown me insight into what it means to not only have met your life partner but to work so closely with them as well. Their strengths and their hardships- no matter the circumstances they rise together. So, I’ve learned so much about what it means to be a team player, and how collaboration can be such a beautiful thing. I’m so used to protecting my craft and keeping it so close to my heart, but Branden and James have shown me the beauty in opening up to others and creating together.

Branden & James: We’ve learned from Effie about how important it is to be an open channel when creating a new arrangement or writing lyrics and melodies to new original songs. She has this superpower to make herself so vulnerable onstage when you least expect it. You can hear it in her lyrics, the way she phrases vocal lines and the utter pain and heartbreak that can show up in her vocal versatility. In life, Effie never really takes anything too seriously. Her personal code is that you can be nice to others, no matter how talented you are. We see this tremendous respect Effie has for humanity in her every day.

What is your creative process when putting together a new song?

James: For me, I usually have a broad concept to start with, a song or two or three that I want to mash up, or one

song that I want to give a certain new treatment to. As someone who leans towards a logical way of working things out (think spreadsheets, lists, step-by-step plans, etc.) the arrangement for me becomes a jigsaw puzzle where the puzzle’s edge pieces would be the melodic structure and form (what are the vocal/cello lines, what is the song’s arc) and then the meat of the puzzle is the accompaniment: Solo piano? Band? Orchestral backing track? I set about deciding what the vibe for the music is: what kind of rhythmic feel, tempo, etc., and then score all of the music using a program called Sibelius. There’s usually a bit of editing once a basic arrangement has taken shape with a lot of collaborative input from Branden and or Effie.

What has been your favorite/craziest on-stage moment from your touring?

Branden: It probably comes as no surprise to your readers, but our genre of music is well-liked by older people. Classical-crossover tunes fit into the Adult Contemporary category. You wouldn’t necessarily see us dissecting a rap song and presenting it on stage. As musicians, we were trained to perform long, sustained lines. That is, in and of itself, the sheer definition of a classical legato sound: smooth and connected. Earlier this year, CelloVoci went on a tour of the Midwest with 34 dates in tow. These rural arts centers are filled with retirees. At one particular stop in Kansas, it was discovered just before our concert finale that one of the patrons in the audience had passed away. There was a bit of a panic in the

room as the elderly man was found dead sitting next to his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. Ironically, the finale we programmed was “Come What May” mashed up with a bit of “Nessun Dorma.” The final lyric of this song is “I will love you until my dying day….” Of course, something like this occurring in our show is completely unpleasant for everyone involved. But as with any tragedy in life, there has to be a lighter side that we can explore. That’s what comedy is - finding the lightness and levity in spite of the darkness. The day after our concert, the three of us were on the road heading to our next venue, and I quipped, “At least we have a new headline. ‘CelloVoci is so good they will take your breath away.’” I hope that’s not too inappropriate. I mean no disrespect.

What did it mean the most to take Carnegie Hall by storm?

Carnegie Hall is a goal for pretty much every musician on the planet. To be able to say we’ve played on any of their stages is truly an honor. We remember being so nervous with a mix of anxiety and excitement, but once we heard the applause and saw all our closest friends and family in the audience, it was very clear to us what that show was: a celebration. A celebration of all of our collective hard work that has led us here to work together. Our music may not be something to dance to, but it inspires and evokes hope for the future. Being able to perform original pieces, new medleys, and fresh takes on nostalgic pieces all together in such a historical place was a dream come true for all of us.

Your catalog includes several songs that are extremely well-known from the classic pop and contemporary eras. How do you make the music your own while paying homage to the originals?

One of the very best comments we’ve received in the past is: “The trio plays cover songs in such a way, it’s like you’re hearing them for the first time.” We always want our arrangements to sound fresh, but never to the point where the song is unrecognizable. Sometimes, I hear people’s takes on cover songs, and the performer doesn’t play or sing any notes in the original melody. To us, that’s not honoring the original material.

Their album Happy Days is nothing short of stunning. We didn’t just listen to a couple of tracks, we listened to the album twice in one sitting, not moving an inch. The collection of music is an emotional journey. Songs are all over the map and include “I Put A Spell On You,” a mashup of “Bésame Mucho” and “Hotel California,” “House of the Rising Sun,” Lennon’s “Imagine,” and more. Each song is its own star and features each artist prominently, but together it is a powerful experience.

What was most important to you as a group in putting together the album?

The most important thing to us as

a group in putting together the album was to remain true to our sound. With that said, our debut album Happy Days is the first showcase of the repertoire we’ve developed together thus far. Now that we’ve time-stamped these songs, somewhere down the pipeline our sound will change a bit. James has improved so much as a singer over the years, and we look forward to incorporating more of his vocal sounds on future CelloVoci recordings.

Besides touring the globe and wowing audiences, what is CelloVoci’s collective goal?

CelloVoci’s mission is to bring a fresh sound to beloved cover songs across all musical genres, while also striving to introduce the world to our original songs. We like bringing people

together in the name of art and beauty. Music is a magical art form that has healing powers. We have deep respect for this role that was bestowed upon us. We consider ourselves to be chosen messengers for something that is greater than us. Someone once called us purveyors of joy. It is both an honor and a great responsibility to carry forth this mission of uniting people, especially at a time when the world is so divided. Our role seems ever more important than it ever has been.

We can’t wait to see the heights CelloVoci reaches, and GED will be there every step of the way. For more information about their tour dates, album, and some behind-thescenes fun, check them out on IG: @CelloVoci

JONATHAN BENNETT

PUTTING THE JOY IN CHRISTMAS

BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

Jonathan Bennett has enjoyed an extensive career that spans over two decades. From soap operas to television dramas to iconic films to reality TV to Broadway to the Hallmark Channel, his latest role as the King (or Queen) of Christmas shines bright. He has joined the ranks of Hallmark hunks and has brought queer sensibility and representation to what was considered one of the most conservative networks around. This Mean Girls, Van Wilder, Dancing with the Stars, Celebrity Big Brother star and host of Cake Wars is not only enjoying a multi-year run on Hallmark with a number of holiday films under his belt (with more to come), but he is also the host of the network’s first competition series, Finding Mr. Christmas. He is a trailblazer for the LGBTQ community with Hallmark and beyond and, at 43, he looks damn good doing it.

This has been a landmark year for the actor as, amid all of his other projects, he took the stage this year to make his Broadway debut in Spamalot. Even with a long list of varied credits, taking center stage proved to be one of his biggest challenges. Opening night was a blur. Minutes before the curtain went up the first thing I thought was, “Oh my God, I don’t know any of my lines.” I literally just blacked out. Once the show started, I blacked out and I didn’t come to until the curtain call and I looked at (co-star) Leslie Kritzer and I said, “How did it go?” And she goes, “You did great!” It took three or four performances until I was actually in my body, in the space of what was happening. The first three performances were just pure adrenaline, and I don’t remember any of them.

Spamalot is considerably one of the biggest shows as far as comedy musical performances. It’s just a big vibrant show that once it starts, the train just goes. For the rehearsal process, I thought I’d have a month to rehearse. I had eight days! Eight days to learn all the dialogue, learn all the musical numbers, learn all the choreography, and figure out how to do a British accent. It was the most challenging

thing for an actor to ever have to do. I asked one of the dancers in the show what the hardest musical he had been in on Broadway. He goes, “This one!” And then I said, “What’s the hardest number you’ve ever done? And he goes, “Yours!” I thought to myself, well, if I can do this, there’s nothing I can’t do.

Even as his career was spiraling forward, there was a resurgence in the fandom of Mean Girls as the musical version hit the big screen. A new generation became familiar with the original in anticipation of the new film. Bennett was once again pulled back to his role as Aaron Samuels. He does not shy away from continually being connected to the

film; he understands the importance of it. Mean Girls is not going anywhere. And it’s a beautiful thing because to be a part of something that has this much fandemonium and this much of an impact on an audience, generation after generation, is truly special. The reason that Mean Girls is always current is because high school never changes. All the high schools from every generation and every age are the same. The Jocks are the Jocks. The Plastics are the Plastics. The Band Kids are the Band Kids. And so, everyone watching it, no matter what generation you’re in, you can relate to the movie because you relate to your experience.

For years, Bennett was the new heartthrob on the block. Playing straight roles in Mean Girls, Cheaper By the Dozen 2, Van Wilder: Freshman Year, The Dukes of Hazzard: The Beginning, and even in Hallmark’s Elevator Girl, shifted after he came out in 2017. He spent a period of time playing himself on reality TV and hosting Halloween Wars and Cake Wars. He would go on to make TV history playing gay for Hallmark. As an actor, did he have any trepidation of being so unabashedly out in his career?

For me, as an actor who was closeted the first 10 years of his career - because that’s what the industry told

me I had to do if I wanted to be a leading man - it was a hard moment for me to decide to just live my authentic self loudly and publicly. There was a lot of fear of what if my fan base, like all the girls that watch Mean Girls, hate that Aaron Samuels is gay? There’s a generation of actors that were leading men who are my colleagues that all had to go through that. Then, all of a sudden, Ryan Murphy came along, and times changed and RuPaul happened, and it was a different era. But then there was this group of us actors who had to make these decisions of like, wait, we were told it wasn’t okay, now they’re

saying it is okay, now I have to figure out what that looks like for me.

And how do I now come out after I pretended to be straight for so long? There’s no playbook for that. There’s no guide to figure out how that happens. And then you just get to a point in your life where you’re like, I don’t want to be the actor in his late thirties still not being out and proud - because I am out and proud of who I am - and so I’m just going to go public with it. And the reverse happened of what I thought was going to happen, it was the exact opposite. The fans and everyone were just so overwhelmingly supportive. It

kind of gave me a rebirth because I got to reintroduce to the world who I am as the full Jonathan Bennett. And by doing that, I haven’t stopped working since. I’ve worked more in the past five years than I have in the last 15. So, I think there’s something to be said about being your true self, because when you’re your true self, then you become a human being. And when you’re a human being on camera, the audience can connect with you. And when they connect, you’re able to show them the human element of the storylines and that’s what makes people want to keep watching you.

His coming out allowed Bennett to be a trailblazer with a number of firsts for Hallmark, a historically very conservative network concerned with optics and pleasing its viewers. In 2022, Jonathan wrote and starred in the network’s first gay-led rom-com The House Sitter, was part of the first gay kiss in Christmas House, and just debuted the first samesex wedding for the network.

Those are such powerful storylines that needed to be told. To see representation in so many different networks telling these stories is something that I never thought would ever happen. And the fact that it’s happening and the fact that I’m a part of it makes me feel so honored. But also I feel like I have a responsibility to make sure I tell stories the correct way. What I don’t want to do is tell stories where we are caricatures or stereotypes. That’s why I always lead with the humanity of the character when I’m developing projects. The secondary storyline is that he just happens to be gay. I think that’s why people are able to identify with the movies that I’ve been able to release in such a strong way, is because whether you’re gay or straight, you can watch them and still identify with everything. I think telling stories where you put the humanity of the character at the front really helps the audience to connect.

As life imitates art, some real-life romance magic would happen while Bennett was filming Christmas House His fiancé, a celebrity in his own right, Jaymes Vaughan, contacted the props department to get Jonathan’s wedding finger sized for a very particular ring that Jaymes was preparing to propose to Jonathan with. Jonathan thought it was odd that the prop master was being so detailed in sizing him for a number of rings when a simple ring would have sufficed. It was a Hallmark movie in real life. The two went on to become the first gay couple to be featured on the cover of the wedding magazine The Knot and were married in 2022 in Mexico. As more holiday magic would have it, Jaymes submitted his song “Home for the Holiday” (from his new EP “Feels

Like Christmas”) to Hallmark via the normal channels. Producers picked the song for Jonathan’s Season’s Greetings from Cherry Lane, not knowing it was his husband’s song. Christmas kismet. Their relationship has become a focal point in the media, the queer community, and for Hallmark cruise audiences. With both of them so busy and constantly in the spotlight, how do they keep the relationship strong?

First of all, there is no perfect couple, but we’re perfect for each other. And I think the thing that Jaymes and I do that’s so strong is we’re each other’s number one fan and biggest supporter. When we got married, we said that we didn’t want it to be like one person is the king of the kingdom and the other person is the bystander. We want two kings, one kingdom. And that’s what we really put forward and what we set out to do as our goal. The fact is that you’re not going to have perfect days. You’re not going to have perfect weeks. But if you love your partner and truly want the best for them, all the other stuff falls by the wayside and you’re able to just focus on helping each other be their best self.

Finding Mr. Christmas, now streaming on Hallmark+, is part Bachelor and part audition as it puts ten hopeful hunks in a cabin-inspired mansion with weekly challenges and eliminations, all trying to become the star of the network’s next leading man. The series has already been filmed, and the winner has already filmed their first holiday movie, as the audience waits with anticipation to see who the lucky guy will be. Co-hosting with funny lady Melissa Peterman, she and Bennett put so much heart into the show that during the first episode, the audience understands at once that isn’t your typical reality show. It isn’t cutthroat but rather full of camaraderie, hope, and sharing of life stories.

If you’ve learned anything about me, it’s that if there’s if there’s a creative void in a space, I want to fill it. What I was struggling with was a competition reality show that everyone could watch as a family. I wanted to prove that you could do it, and you could do it well,

and you could make it entertaining without having a ton of drama. What we did was just create a safe space for our 10 guys to be able to explore not only themselves but life together. And we based it on a competition reality Christmas show. So, it’s about creating the environment on set that’s like - I don’t shine if you don’t shine. That’s my biggest motto, and that’s what I live by. It doesn’t matter how good I’m doing if the people in my life around me aren’t doing as great, then it’s my job to turn around and pull them up with me. And so that’s the thought that I instilled in all of our hunks is that even though you’re competing, you are going to do better as a competitor if you help the guys next to you elevate. And they really took that to heart and it shows on camera because they walked in competitors and they left a family. Even though they were competing, they were trying to help each other win and, by doing that, they became better competitors themselves.

During the first episode, Bennett teared up as Daxton, the show’s gay competitor expressed his fear of having to be good enough. Jonathan leaned over and firmly stated, “You, we, are always good enough.”

I get teary-eyed every episode because I know what it’s like to be these guys. I know what it’s like to want that role so bad. I’m an actor of 25 years, and I’ve had more rejection than most people do in a lifetime. And so I understand, I was able to put myself in the mindset of these guys and to want something like that, and to have Daxton be able to be his loud, out, proud self on national television to help inspire other people to be themselves was so rewarding because it made me feel like I maybe had a little part in that. I was maybe able to crack the door open so that he could walk through. And that’s, that’s really what I took from that moment.

Just as Jonathan has helped turn a page in TV LGBTQ history, we enter into another wildly conservative administration. What does he think the future of

representation looks like? Will we have to go back into the closet of mainstream media?

We’re not going anywhere. LGBTQ people have stories that deserve to be told, and I plan on telling them no matter who is in office, and my job is to tell

stories to a broad audience. I think the more of those stories I tell, the more hearts and minds will change from watching them. And hopefully, it will help move the needle forward for the entire community. I know that’s what I was put on this earth to do.

Not only does Bennett have to bring it on camera, but he has also become a spokesperson for building bridges between the conservative and queer sides, he and his husband have become a model couple, and he continues to stand

up for queer representation. How does he handle that pressure?

It’s not pressure as much as it is responsibility. And every time things get difficult and it becomes overwhelming, I’ll get a message from a fan on Instagram saying, “Hey, I watched your

“TO SEE REPRESENTATION IN SO MANY DIFFERENT NETWORKS TELLING THESE STORIES IS SOMETHING THAT I NEVER THOUGHT WOULD EVER HAPPEN. AND THE FACT THAT IT’S HAPPENING AND I’M A PART OF IT MAKES ME FEEL SO HONORED.”

movie with my parents for the first time. My parents are having complications with me. Coming out and watching your movie with them where they could see what my love looked like, really helped me. And I think it helped them see it a little more clearly. So, thank you.” When I get those messages from people, it’s just laser-focused on that’s what I’m put here to do and that’s what I have to do. And all the things that are hard or things that are struggles all become worth it and kind of fall to the wayside.

His New Year resolution is to direct a Christmas comedy. Hollywood… are you listening? When asked what a holiday movie based on his relationship with Jaymes would be titled, he simply answered, This Is Our Song.

And his message to his fans this holiday season?

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you for keeping me employed, and thank you for celebrating all of the hard work and the projects that I have the honor of working on every year to hopefully bring joy to you and move the needle forward for the community. So, just thank you.

Check out all of Jonathan’s movies and Finding Mr. Christmas on Hallmark+.

Follow Jonathan on IG: @JonathanDBennett

BY DANIEL HIRSCH (AS SEEN AT DAPHEALTH.ORG)

ith more than 50% of men reporting some incidence of erectile dysfunction (according to some studies), the condition might just be one of the most common health issues affecting those assigned male at birth. Despite its commonness, the causes of erectile dysfunction (E.D.) — defined by the inability to develop or maintain an erection long enough for satisfying sexual activity — are astoundingly complex and variable.

I spoke to DAP Health’s Co-Directors of Adult Medicine Dr. Frederick Afari and Dr. Damoun Rezai to more fully understand the disorder that involves a delicate exchange of vascular, hormonal, mechanical, and, crucially, psychological factors.

What are the physical causes of erectile dysfunction?

Dr. Rezai: There are a lot of reasons why it happens. When it comes to how blood goes throughout the body — the penis being a sponge, blood goes in there and fills that sponge up to make an erection — it’s impacted by any of the common chronic conditions we many experience as we get older: high blood pressure, poor cholesterol, weight gain. Diabetes can also impact the body’s ability to get an erection. Finally, if there’s ever been any injury due to an accident or trauma, there can be some long-term issues.

Dr. Afari: Testosterone depreciates as you age. If you have a low volume, that also causes you to not be able to achieve or maintain an erection for a sustained period of time.

What are the psychological causes?

Dr. Afari: With sexuality, psychology always plays a role. There are different parts of the brain that get activated when we are aroused. If you do not have enough stimuli, if you are stressed out, or if you are feeling depressed, all those things can play a role. The brain is a strong tool.

Dr. Rezai: Beta blockers and certain psychiatric medicines that have the benefit of preventing heart attack and stroke,

or help control depression or anxiety, often have the side effect of low libido.

When should someone seek treatment?

Dr. Afari: As soon as you notice something different from your baseline, it’s time to talk to your clinician. As we age, there are naturally things that change in terms of erections. But if those things are changing drastically, there is a possibility that something is going on that needs to be investigated.

What are some of the treatment strategies for E.D.?

Dr. Rezai: Just like for the performance of an athlete, nutrition, diet, and exercise are critical. Additionally, figuring out the

cause is really important because there are different modes of treatment. If it’s physiological and we want to increase the blood flow, medications like Viagra or Cialis will increase flow to the penis. There are also injections that go directly into the penis (Trimix, Bimix). They’re like Viagra; they increase the blood flow. They’re a little bit more invasive. You might have pain with injections — and possible bruising or scarring because of the needle — but you’ll get a faster reaction.

If it’s to the point where these medications don’t work anymore, you can see a urologist about installing a penile pump. That’s pretty much a tube that goes into the penis that can be filled with a liquid. With the flip of

a switch, the pump fills the tube to achieve an erection.

Dr. Afari: I cannot overemphasize managing the risk factors. Smoking has been associated with erectile dysfunction. If you are overweight, working on that might also help. For hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, lifestyle changes to mitigate some of the symptoms along with pharmacotherapy will help. If people are depressed, a behavioral health specialist to address those concerns is important as well.

What are treatment drawbacks or side effects?

Dr. Afari: With any medication, there’s the potential of side effects. For Viagra and Cialis, you have the potential of having a prolonged erection which doesn’t dissipate. In those cases, you need to go to the emergency room to be managed by a health care professional. Because it’s opening up blood vessels, there’s potential for dizziness and passing out.

Any misconceptions or myths about E.D. you’d like to address?

Dr. Afari: If you or your partner notice there’s a significant change, there could be something more complex in the background that is not being seen yet. E.D. can be a warning sign. So talk to a professional.

Dr. Rezai: Don’t be shy. This is your body. Your choice. Talk to your clinician about any questions if you feel it’s an issue. Then you can be educated, and can minimize your risk of it progressing.

If you are witnessing decrease in your erectile function, talk to your DAP Health primary care clinician. If you are not yet a DAP Health patient, and would like to become one, please visit daphealth.org and click the “Become a Patient” button.

HOW TO PAMPER YOURSELF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

BY JEFFREY JAMES KEYES

ATWATER

Hydration Station $49 atwaterskin.com

Need a little extra holiday hydration after a day in the cold?

Chris Salgardo, the former President of Kiehl’s, is back with his new venture, ATWATER—a skincare line named after his dad’s hometown in Atwater, CA. Designed to keep things simple, ATWATER helps guys look fresh and confident without all the fuss. Get holiday-ready with their Heavy Armor Dry Skin Essentials kit, featuring a Cleansing Bar, Eye Armor Moisturizer, and Heavy Armor Moisturizer. Perfect for keeping your skin smooth and hydrated during those holiday photos and parties. As Salgardo puts it, “I need a routine that tackles sweat and oil without stripping my skin.” Stay shine-free and ready to rock

PROHIBITION

The holidays are upon us, with festive gatherings, snowy days, and the joyful hustle and bustle. Why not add some new sparkles to your grooming routine this season? From screeninduced skin fatigue to winter dryness, these carefully curated grooming kits, gift sets, and self-care essentials have got you covered. Whether you’re seeking a new skincare ritual, treating yourself to a scented experience, or simply looking for stocking stuffers, this guide will help you find the ideal products to celebrate the season in style.

BEAU DOMAINE

Brad’s Complete Routine $396 us.beau-domaine.com

Beau Domaine’s Brad’s Complete Routine, a collaboration between Brad Pitt and the Perrin family, offers a luxurious men’s skincare ritual inspired by Provence. This three-step routine starts with the Cleansing Emulsion, followed by The Serum—applied with smoothing, upward motions for absorption. Complete the ritual with either The Cream for normal to dry skin or the Fluid Cream for normal to combination skin. Packaged in eco-friendly bottles made from recycled glass and wine barrels, this routine features patented GSM10® and ProGR3® ingredients to combat aging. Perfect for a luxury escape to Provence—pair it with a bottle of Miraval Rosé for holiday indulgence.

The Massage Candle $57 prohibitionwellness.com

Give the gift of warmth and relaxation this holiday season with The Massage Candle from Prohibition Wellness. This luxurious soy candle offers a comforting blend of wood sage and peony, filling any room with a cozy, inviting aroma. Once the wick is blown out, the candle’s rich mix of coconut and hemp seed oils melts into a warm, skin-softening massage oil. Ideal for solo self-care or sharing with a partner, it’s infused with essential nutrients to soothe and nourish the skin. Embrace the season of comfort and connection with a touch of luxury from Prohibition Wellness.

BLUEME

4 Piece Ceramic Votive Set $75 fablerune.com

The Blueme 4-Piece Ceramic Votive Set offers a serene journey through scent with four signature candles: Calm, Balance, Nostalgia, and Focus. Each handcrafted ceramic votive contains a soy-wax blend, designed with layered notes like green tea, lotus flower, sandalwood, bergamot, and eucalyptus. Infused with science-based formulas, these fragrances aim to promote relaxation, clarity, and emotional balance. Blueme, founded by Mei Xu, focuses on creating functional fragrances that connect well-being with scent. The brand combines luxurious aromas with minimalist design and a commitment to quality, offering thoughtful products that enhance both mood and home. Go ahead, treat yourself to a winter wonderland atmosphere with calming scents after a busy day of holiday prep.

CELLCOSMET

ClarinsMen Grooming Essentials Gift Set $75 clarinsusa.com

The ClarinsMen Grooming Essentials Gift Set ($75) from Clarins is a limited-edition, 6-piece holiday collection perfect for men’s daily grooming needs. The set includes essentials for face, body, beard, and hair, all in an eco-friendly ClarinsMen pouch. Inside, you’ll find the Super Moisture Balm, which provides intensive hydration to help skin recover from extreme sports, cold weather, and rough shaves. The Active Face Wash, a gentle foaming gel, cleanses, softens, and refreshes the skin. For a full-body cleanse, the 2-in-1 Shampoo and Shower Gel invigorates from head to toe. The Shave and Beard Oil conditions the skin and beard, making for easy razor glide and effortless styling. Also included is the award-winning Double Serum Light, formulated with 21 plant extracts to address visible signs of aging in a lightweight texture ideal for oily skin and humid climates.

The Massage Ritual Collection $785 cellcosmet.com

Cellcosmet, a Swiss brand, was inspired by the pioneering work of Professor Paul Niehans in cellular therapy. They’ve built on decades of research to develop the CellControl™ method, preserving the efficacy of bioengineered cellular extracts. The brand’s commitment to science-backed, luxury skincare is evident through their exacting standards and the work of their experts, including Dr. Jérémie Soeur, a leader in skincare science and innovation.

The Massage Ritual Collection is a luxury skincare set that launched in November 2024, designed to create a spa-like experience at home. It features the brand’s best selling Activator Gel, Ultra Intensive Elasto Collagen-XT for firming and toning, a rich Ultra Vital cream for hydration and radiance, and a Cellular Eye Contour Cream to reduce fine lines. The set includes Cryo-stick massage tools, which provide a cool ing sensation to enhance circulation and refresh the skin.

FABLERUNE

The Queen Healer Intuitive Spa box $164 fablerune.com

The Queen Healer Intuitive Spa Box by FABLERUNE is a curated collection of luxurious, ritual-inspired products designed to bring inner peace and mindfulness. Packaged in a reusable wooden box, it includes a Ritual Essential Oil Candle, Seasonal Bath Soak, Rose Clay Facial Cleanser, Probiotic Marine Mask, and more, all paired with a booklet offering guided meditation and treatment flow. FABLERUNE’s brand draws on ancestral healing and traditions, using time-honored ingredients to support women’s evolving skincare needs. Founded by Jeriel in Oakland, CA, with co-owner Bobbie, FABLERUNE blends fables and runes to create a nourishing, holistic self-care experience focused on sustainability and wellness.

DR. ROSSI DERM Skin Refine $258 rossiderm.com

Dr. Rossi Derm’s Skin Refine Duo, priced at $258, combines the transformative powers of The Night Synthesis and The Catalyst to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles while calming skin irrita tion. Both formulas are infused with Dr. Rossi’s proprietary BioTheriac® complex, known for its clinically proven efficacy. The Night Synthesis is a rich night cream that promotes cellular repair while locking in moisture, making it ideal for all skin types. The Catalyst, a silky daily serum, works to even skin tone and boost firmness while addressing multiple skin concerns in one formula. Dr. Rossi, a pioneer in sensitive skincare, created these luxurious treatments after noticing that traditional products often aggravated his patients’ conditions. His mission is to provide effective, non-irritating solutions for all skin types, helping individuals achieve their healthiest skin without the use of harmful ingredients. Packaged in a fully recyclable luxury box, this duo not only supports skin health but also aligns with eco-friendly values.

HERBIVORE

Bright & Bouncy Bestseller Serum Kit $24 herbivorebotanicals.com

Herbivore’s Bright & Bouncy Bestseller Serum Kit offers a trio of effective, plant-based serums to boost radiance, soften lines, and deeply hydrate. The set includes the Cloud Jelly Hydration Serum with moisture-locking mushrooms, NOVA Brightening Serum with turmeric and vitamin C, and Moon Fruit, a gentle retinol alternative for smoothing wrinkles. Herbivore was founded in 2011 by Alex Kummerow and Julia Wills in Seattle, with a mission to create clean, plant-based skincare. Inspired by their backgrounds in herbal medicine and cosmetic chemistry, the duo crafted small-batch solutions that grew into a global brand known for effective, natural products designed for all skin types.

LA CHATELAINE

Oprah’s Favorite Things 2019 Luxury Soap Collection $73

Lachatelainebeauty.com

Oprah’s Favorite Things 2019 Luxury Soap Collection by La Chatelaine ($73) is a perfect gift, beautifully presented in a limited-edition Winter White tin with vibrant florals. Made in Provence with ethically sourced, natural ingredients, these triple-milled, vegetable-based soaps are enriched with shea butter, argan oil, and vitamin E for a luxurious, moisturizing lather. Scents include Gardenia, Coconut Milk, Lemon Verbena, Cherry Almond, Shea, and Wild Fig, crafted by perfumers in Grasse, France. La Chatelaine’s soaps are cruelty-free and free from colorants, parabens, and phthalates, offering a pure, indulgent experience.

KORRES

Spread Joy Advent Calendar 2024 $225 korres.com

The KORRES Spread Joy Advent Calendar 2024, priced at $225, brings the essence of Greek nature to the holiday season. Inspired by the rich biodiversity of Greece, this limited-edition calendar features 24 KORRES products packaged in beautifully designed boxes that come together to create four unique puzzles, each with its own story. The calendar’s aesthetic draws from apothecary traditions, and the design is symbolized by the iconic KORRES windmill, which spreads the secrets and scents of the Greek flora. The products are dermatologically tested, vegetarian-friendly, cruelty-free, and packaged in recyclable materials, reflecting KORRES’ commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. KORRES collaborates with local farmers, forming a network of over 10,000 people to source ingredients sustainably from Greece’s diverse landscapes, where over 6,000 plant species thrive. Founded in 1996 by pharmacist Georgios Korres, the brand honors traditional natural remedies while leveraging modern innovation to create high-quality skincare inspired by Greece’s rich botanical heritage.

Open for Advent-Ure Gift Set $148 kiehls.com

Kiehl’s Since 1851 celebrates the holidays with their 2024 Holiday Advent Calendar, featuring 24 iconic skincare products behind each door. Priced at $148 ($293 value), the set includes bestsellers like the Ultra Facial collection, Avocado Eye Cream, and Lip Balm #1. With festive designs by artist duo Public/Official, the calendar offers a daily skincare surprise, making it a perfect gift to give or keep. Kiehl’s, known for 171 years of effective, paraben-free skincare, continues its commitment to innovative formulas and sustainable packaging, honoring its apothecary roots in New York’s East Village.

RAW SUGAR

RawStrength $10

rawsugarliving.com

RawStrength by Raw Sugar offers a fresh, eco-friendly take on men’s grooming. This $9.99 set includes two invigorating body washes—Eucalyptus and Black Coconut—along with Strength and Invigorate 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioners. Raw Sugar believes in celebrating authenticity, self-care, and clean living. With a mission to inspire love from the outside in, they use organic extracts, follow strict EU fragrance guidelines, and stick to a cruelty-free, no-harm philosophy. Their signature packaging is made with 30% recycled plastic, aiming for 100% by 2030. RawStrength keeps things simple and refreshing, while staying kind to the planet.

THE HOLIDAYS ARE HERE AND IT’S TIME FOR A

“HOOTENANNY!”

BY ETHYLINA CANNE

My gosh, I can’t believe that the Holiday Season is upon us? It feels like I just said “until next year” to the man with bag from the North Pole!? But low and behold, we are less than 25 days away. The holidays are a time of JOY and making special memories. I so enjoy all the sparkle and tidings of good cheer that are abundant this time of year, and I wish people were more in their Christmas mood all year long, don’t you?

I am also a huge fan of seeing live entertainment any time I Canne, and thank goodness there is no shortage of that here in the Coachella Valley. I recently got to experience a rocking good time at The Roost in Cathedral City with the amazing sounds and energy of “Desert Hot Things!” I was able to catch up with one of the creative and talented members behind the band to find out how this group came together.

You are from San Francisco, a place that I used to call home as well. Tell us about your musical background and bands you were a part of in San Francisco.

I started singing and playing in rock bands when I was 14 years old. In 1975 my band won my junior high talent

competition singing “Suffragette City” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”. For my last two years of high school I went to John Woolman School, a Quaker boarding school in Northern California. Several students were accomplished guitar players; it was a master class in jazzfusion and progressive rock. After high school I moved to San Francisco and led a psychedelic punk rock band called “AleiNation”. I was 19 and we played at many clubs and bars that I was not old enough to legally enter. The lead singer of that band was Naomi Ruth Eisenberg who played electric violin and formerly sang with Dan Hicks and his Hot Licks. We played shows with dozens of 80’s new wave groups in SF and NYC from Fad Gadget to X.

After AleiNation ended, I started played guitar and sang with all kinds of San Francisco rock bands and various musical outfits in the 80’s and 90’s. A few names are City Swing, The Closet Ball, Men Behind Bars, Cruella, Bucktooth Varmints, Sugarfixx, Justin Vivienne Bond, No Alternative; anyone who needed a guitar player.

In the early 90’s, I met D’Arcy Drollinger and joined his theatrical Las Vegas-style show band “Enrique”. D’Arcy is the owner and chief creative officer of Oasis nightclub in San Francisco and recently became the city’s first drag laureate. To me, he’s the brightest light helping to keep queer culture alive and thriving in SF. En-

rique toured the west coast and played a variety of venues from corporate gigs and art parties to the worst dives imaginable. The band performed several rock musicals that D’Arcy wrote including “Above and Beyond the Valley of the Ultra Showgirls” That show played for about 18 months at different clubs and eventually landed a home at the Transmission Theater in SF. It was cutting edge kitchen-sink rock theater and became the role model for subsequent rock musicals I wrote with my writing partner at the time.

After D’Arcy moved to NYC, the Enrique core band continued on. We wrote and performed a theatrical rock musical called “Cyberotica!” in 1999 which played on the end-of-the-millennium Y2K scares that ultimately never happened. The show was ambitious, audacious and wildly over the top. In 2000 we wrote and performed a followup rock musical called “Club Inferno” that was loosely based on Dante’s Inferno written by Dante Aleghieri in 1304. It chronicled Dante’s journey through the 9 layers of Hell. My writing partner and I won two awards from the Bay Area Theater Critics Awards for Best Original Score and Best Book and Lyrics for that show. Imagine a bunch of scrappy punk rockers and drag queens attending and accepting awards at the Palace of Fine Arts Theater beating out composers at American Conservatory Theater. That was us! In 2015 Thrillped-

dlers in SF staged a revival of Club Inferno and that show had another long run. In 2018 Cyberotica! was revived again by Oasis nightclub.

In the late 90’s, I started a 1960’s pop band called Whoa Nellies with Leigh Crow who was a mainstay actor in all our shows. Leigh has a big personality and a big voice and used to be flown to international Pride festivals portraying a camp Elvis Presley character called “Elvis Herselvis”. The Nellies played all the SF street fairs, many benefits, fundraisers, corporate gigs and dives. In 2009 we were asked by the SF Gay Men’s Chorus to back them at Davies Symphony Music hall, which is like SF’s Carnegie Hall. The special guest star that night was folk music icon Joan Baez who partied with us and told the dirtiest, most off-color jokes imaginable!

Also around that time, I started a punk rock drag queen band called “Pepperspray”. There were five fierce queens across the front of the stage, all of them lead singers and all of them with big personalities. We played 80’s covers by the Clash, Ramones and Sex Pistols, etc. plus 90’s songs by Nine Inch Nails, Nirvana and Garbage, etc. as well as originals written by me and the singers. Again, we played all the SF street fairs, corporate gigs and many dives. But the biggest dive we played was when we opened for Cher at the Concord Pavilion in 2003. We were performing during the 1pm slot on the SF Pride main stage that year and someone from Bill Graham Presents saw us and called us a week later asking if we’d like to open for Cher at local show on her third “farewell” tour. Two months later, there we were!

I led Pepperspray until 2008 and the Nellies until 2016. Both bands had a great run. But after almost 40 years in the SF music scene, I was done with all the tasks and responsibility that comes with being a band leader. After 2027, I semi-retired from music and performing live. But I kept getting calls to perform benefits, fundraisers and tribute bands. The last band I musical-directed before Covid hit was one my favorite projects: a Linda Ronstadt tribute band

where I got to work with some of the finest local singers and musicians in the Bay Area.

Like many of my friends, you transplanted to the desert during the COVID period. What brought you to this magical desert oasis?

I lived in SF for 44 years, since I was 17. It was time for a change. In 2021, the company I work for sold its primary building and told all employees we’re now permanently working remotely. I’ve always loved the mountains and the desert and had fantasized about living the indoor/outdoor life-

style with a hot tub, pool and outdoor grill. I started looking at places in the Palm Springs area to set myself up up for retirement in a few years. One thing quickly led to another and a year later I was a homeowner, still working remotely.

Since your move, you haven’t stopped making music. What did you do to plug yourself into the entertainment circle in the Coachella Valley?

I thought I was retiring from the music scene when I left San Francisco in early 2022. I had done it for so long, playing prestigious venues like the Fill-

both know. The party guests pulled out their phones, looked up the lyrics and sang along. The sing-along hootenanny, using acoustic guitars and a piano was born that night. We started throwing hootenannies almost on a monthly basis, first at my house but as more people started coming, friends asked if they could host. The hootenanny parties started attracting a bigger crowd each time and began traveling from house to house, often with holiday themes: Christmas, Easter, 4th of July, etc. I’m incredibly grateful to have found community through music.

Now, I don’t know who wouldn’t LOVE a new rock band called “Desert Hot Things!” I mean the name alone had me beyond intrigued. Tell us about the how the band was formed.

What can audiences expect at one of your shows?

Audiences should expect a fun and welcoming vibe. We love it when the audience is engaged, belting along to 60’s, 70’s and 80’s pop hits. It’s always a good time! Occasionally, we play nonprofit events when a presentation more conducive to conversation and less audience engagement is preferred. Those kinds of gigs are fun too and have a more laid-back, relaxed energy.

The new year is almost upon us, so what exciting things do you have on the horizon in 2025?

Before 2024 ends, we’re presenting a holiday hootenanny at the Roost on Sunday, December 22. It’ll be a rockin’ good time so come on down!

more, Davis Symphony Hall and Slims. The intent was to leave it all behind, so I sold most of my guitars and gear. When I moved here I had only a handful of friends. I’m not a bar person so I started volunteering at charity events to meet new people. I hadn’t found my tribe yet and realized I needed to create my own. Two years ago, I met my friend, Greg here in PS. He’s a musical director, excellent pianist and can sight read any chart put in front of him. On Pride eve in 2022, I hosted a party and about 20 people came. I have a piano and guitars, so Greg and I started jamming on 60’s and 70’s pop songs we

Desert Hot Things developed out of the hootenannies in an effortless and organic way. I met John on band.com and instantly bonded with him. He’s a great bass player and he became a hootenanny regular. I also met Josh and Eddie, and they joined in. Eddie plays drums and Josh took over the keys from Greg. From the acoustic hootenanny parties, the four of us developed a louder rock repertoire in my garage. I was eager to get the band in front of an audience, so I threw a St. Paddy’s pool party in my backyard. The party went well, and Desert Hot Things was born. We had a couple more hootenanny house parties with more and more people attending. Our amazing lead guitar and harmonica player, Jake joined over the summer. Then my friend Nathan introduced us to Jeff at the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City. Jeff liked the idea of bringing the hootenanny into the bar. We did a trial gig at the Roost in late August. It was a success and Jeff offered four more dates in 2024. Christine had been coming to some of the house hootenannies. She has a great voice, great energy and plays tambourine so we added her as a permanent member of DHT. The band has a good thing going. We’re hoping to play at the Roost once a month or so or as often as Jeff will have us. We also play non-profit events, fundraisers and private parties.

Earlier this year, the band recorded an original song I wrote with Pippi Lovestocking, a drag queen and stand-up comedienne from San Francisco who’s life took an unexpected turn over the past couple of years. Independent filmmaker Robert James is directing a documentary about Pippi, and the song will be used in the film. I’m not sure when it will be finished, but it might be by late 2025.

For 2025, we’re planning more parties and performances in the Coachella Valley: sing-along hootenannies at the Roost and private homes, grand openings, charity events and fundraisers. Our goal is to provide quality entertainment and lots of good vibes. We hope to continue to grow our audience by promoting love, joy and bringing our community together for fun.

To keep up with all the happenings of “Desert Hot Things”, check out DESERT HOT THINGS on Facebook, and desert_hot_things on Instagram.

Hope your holiday is MERRY and Bright and remember to be kind to others. We need that more than ever in the world today!

Joyfully, Ethyl

Creating vibrant community by helping LGBTQ+ people along their way.

DECEMBER

6TH &7TH

Sydney Goldstein Theatre • San Francisco

TICKETS ONLINE HERE:

WORTH THE WAIT?! WICKED

BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

It seems like we have been waiting for the Wicked film for ages. Well, yes, we have. Universal first announced the film adaptation of the Broadway musical way back in 2012. Casting rumors swirled around but, development slowed down and then was paused by Covid. Finally, in 2021, the studio announced that Jon Chu from Crazy Rich Asians success would be directing, and Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo would be playing the leads. Filming finally began in 2022, then was cut short due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, with filming resuming and finally concluding in January of 2024. So, yes, we have been waiting. Was it worth it? A million times yes.

To be completely honest, Wicked is not my favorite musical. I like it, I’ve seen the show many times, and, just like any good gay, have learned the lyrics to the show’s titular songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular.” But no, I wouldn’t call it among my favorites. That being said, with the creative team and stellar cast involved, I knew it would hit the mark. It didn’t just hit the mark, it far surpassed

it, raising the bar high for any movie musicals that are to follow. It isn’t just the amazing sets, the CGI visuals, the diverse cast, or the lush cinematography, but this movie has heart. It may sound schmaltzy, but that’s the best way to categorize it. At the center of all the wonderful things this film is, it is sincere, and everyone involved seems to be in on making this story come to life in such an intimate and emotional way, despite the grandeur of the story, in a way that the stage could never. Don’t forget to bring your Kleenex, you are going to need it.

The movie is based on the 2003 Broadway musical by Stephen Schwartz from Godspell and Pippin fame, which is based on the 1995 novel Wicked by Gregory MacGuire, which is based on Frank Baum’s the Wizard of Oz novel in 1900. The story is a bit of a prequel and poststory of The Wizard of Oz but instead of focusing on Dorothy and her crew, it is based on the origin stories of Glinda and Elphaba and how they became the iconic characters we see in the Oz story. Under the pageantry and fantasy of Oz and bigger-than-life characters, the story is really about friendship – with all the

ups and downs a true relationship will go through. It’s not always a fairy tale ending. The film adaptation is split into two parts, mirroring Act 1 and Act 2 from the musical. Part 2 will be released same time next year.

For die-hard fans of the show, be relieved. Most movie musicals will cut shorter musical interludes or song transitions in favor of getting to the action and dialogue. This film is pretty damn close to what is included in the stage version. But the film lets certain moments breathe that add such life and complexity to the story. Because the story is being divided into two parts, I figured they would fill the space with added characters and storylines. Yes, there are more pointed characters than the stage version (Glinda’s mean girl besties), but the story remains untouched, just expanded. Director Chu lets his lead characters take their time in moments of connection. Even the song “Popular” isn’t rushed. There is a beautiful moment when we realize that Elphaba and Glinda are becoming friends, it is a moment without music, without dialogue, just them acting up a storm and capturing our hearts in an

instant. Also, for die-hard fans, the songs all hit the moments we’ve all come to know and love from the cast recording. But, in true movie style, the songs are made more intimate and less jazz hands, and we can feel the characters’ expressions and we can hear the pathos in the subtle delivery. It really is a stellar job of how they’ve made the music so accessible to a cinematic audience.

From a queer point of view, we are well-represented. Not only is one of the main storylines about finding your footing as an outcast, but a sub-storyline deals with the vilification of a species in order to silence them. Sound familiar? We also have openly queer actors Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, and even Elphaba herself leading the way. Among the dance sequences, you will see nonbinary and queer characters mixing and mingling seamlessly among the ensembles. We would love to have a few moments in the Oz salon with some of those pretty boys.

The casting for the film is superb. Ariana Grande is in her element and Glinda’s mannerisms and ego could tire easily after a few moments, but she incorporates the elements we laugh at on stage and somehow makes it very real while keeping the humor. She is both subtle and heavy-handed in her approach to the character, and the result is a complex presentation that grips our hearts. What can I even say about Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba? There was a lot of chatter and opinions flying around about her casting, but there can be no question, this role is totally hers. She adds quiet rage, moments of vulnerability, and intense pathos to a character that could have quite easily been made into a bombastic one-level performance. She and Ariana play a skillfully crafted dance, exploring their relationship while letting the other shine. I wasn’t too crazy about Jeff Goldblum being cast as The Wizard. And while he does add his signature mannerisms to the character, he really fits the role well, and I was sold. Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible was right on the money, she is glamour, she is magic, she is dangerous. The entire cast is superb, all hitting their mark. Surprisingly, even with his good looks and charm, Jonathan

Bailey did a great job but didn’t bring the house down. For us who know the story, we know that his intense moments come in Part 2. Also, he does seem a bit older than everyone else to go to school at Shizz. Don’t attack me, gays, he was still good!

Fun, subtle shoutouts to the Wizard of Oz film are peppered in here and there. Miss Gultch (the Wicked Witch’s counterpart) on a bicycle, poppies, the Yellow Brick Road, ruby slippers, and even Munchkin costuming all give an homage to the 1939 Judy Garland film. And not to give too much away, those cameos you were hoping for? Yes, and they aren’t just cameos. Keep an eye open for Stephen Schwartz’s very brief cameo (I’m not giving anything away).

There really is no way to describe how amazing Part 1’s finale is. For those of us who know the show backward and

forward, we know what’s coming. How are you going to surprise an audience with a song that we’ve all sung in the shower day after day? Well, they did it. The buildup, the special effects, the acting, and the cinematography, all come together for a segment that leaves the audience speechless. During my screening, the audience lept to its feet in tears and applause.

During a time when movies just seem to get louder and filled with more CGI to make up for substance, this film has not only accomplished surpassing the stage version, but it proves that a movie can have a lot of heart no matter how big the sets are. This movie will become a classic that will be shared for generations to come.

Definitely 5 out of 5 stars.

BARS & CLUBS

AKBAR

4356 W. Sunset Blvd

Silverlake, CA 90029

323.665.6810 akbarsilverlake.com

BEACHES WEHO

8928 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.360.0395 beachesweho.com

FIESTA CANTINA

88565 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.652.8865 fiestacantina.net

FUBAR

7994 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90046

323.654.0396 fubarla.com

GYM SPORTSBAR

8919 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

424.313.8202 gymsportsbar.com

HAMBURGER MARY’S

8288 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

323.654.3800 hamburgermarys.com

HEART WEHO

8911 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069 heartweho.com

HI TOPS

8933 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069 hitopsbar.com

MICKYS

8857 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.657.1176

mickys.com

ROCCO’S

8900 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

424.343.0123 roccosweho.com

LOS ANGELES DIRECTORY

SAINT FELIX

8945 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.275.4428 saintfelix.net

THE ABBEY

692 N Robertson Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.289.8410 theabbeyweho.com

THE CHAPEL

692 N Robertson Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.289.8410

theabbeyweho.com

THE EAGLE

4219 Santa Monica Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90029

323.669.9472 eaglela.com

REVOLVER VIDEO BAR

8851 Santa Monica Blvd.

West Hollywood, CA 90069

424.382.1108

Revolverweho.Com

STACHE

8941 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.402.0770 Stacheweho.Com

THE BAYOU

8939 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.273.3303

Thebayouweho.Com

TRUNKS

8809 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069 310.652.1015 west.hollywood.trunksbar.com

CLOTHING & LEATHER

665 LEATHER & FETISH

20810 Lassen St Chatsworth, CA 91311 818.678.9193 665leather.com

BLOCK PARTY

8853 Santa Monica Blvd

West Hollywood, CA 90069 blockpartyweho.com

BRICK & MORTAR

8713 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.652.6605 shopatbrick.com

CIRCUS OF BOOKS

8861 Santa Monica Blvd and West Hollywood, CA 90069 323.337.9555 circusofbooks.com

LOVE CONNECTION

8244 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90046

ROUGH TRADE LEATHER

3915 Sunset Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90029 323.660.7956 roughtradegear.com

THE PLEASURE CHEST

7733 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90046 323.650.1022 thepleasurechest.com

YMLA

8594 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069 ymla.com

HAIR SALONS

BLADE

801 N. Larrabee St, Ste #1 West Hollywood 310.659.6693

SHORTY’S BARBER SHOP

755 N Fairfax Ave West Hollywood 323.297.0554 shortysbarbershop.com

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

HEALTH/COUNSELING

AID FOR AIDS AFA

8235 Santa Monica Blvd #200 West Hollywood, CA 90046

323.656.1107 aidforaids.net

AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION/MENS WELLNESS CENTER

• 6255 W Sunset Blvd, 21st Fl Los Angeles, CA 90028

888 AIDS CARE

• 1300 N Vermont Ave, Ste 407 Los Angeles, CA 90027

866.339.2525

800.367.2437 inspotla.org

AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION PHARMACY

8212

•

323.653.1990 – appts 323.653.8622 – admin lafreeclinic.org

• 6043 Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028

•

PALM SPRINGS DIRECTORY

• 1726 East Colorado Blvd

Pasadena, CA 91106

626.440.1719

• 360 North Fairfax Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90036

323.934.1956

PROJECT ANGEL FOOD

922 Vine St

Los Angeles, CA 90038

323.845.1800 angelfood.org

THE TREVOR PROJECT

9056 Santa Monica Blvd #100 West Hollywood, CA 90069

310.271.8845 thetrevorproject.org

VALLEY COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE

6801 Coldwater Canyon Ave North Hollywood, CA 91605

818.301.6314 - HIV testing

818.301.6390 - Medical Services smarthealthla.com

LEGAL

LAMBDA LEGAL DEFENSE & EDUCATION FUND INC.

Western Regional Office 3325 Wilshire Blvd #1300

Los Angeles, CA 90010

213.382.7600 lambdalegal.org

NATIONAL G & L TASK FORCE

5455 Wilshire Blvd #1505 Los Angeles, CA 90036

323.954.9597 thetaskforce.org

WITH GED MAGAZINE

COMPETITIVE RATES

STATEWIDE PRINT DISTRIBUTION

sales@gedmag.com

ATTRACTIONS

THE LIVING DESERT ZOO AND GARDENS

47900 Portola Ave

Palm Desert, CA 92260

760.346.5694 livingdesert.org

PALM SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM

745 N Gene Autry Trail

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.778.6262 palmspringsairmuseum.org

PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM

101 Museum Drive

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.322.4800 psmuseum.org

PS AERIAL TRAMWAY

1 Tram Way

Palm Springs, CA 92262

888.515.8726 pstramway.com

BARS & CLUBS

BLACKBOOK

315 E. Arenas Rd

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.832.8497 blackbookbar.com

CHILL BAR

217 E. Arenas Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.327.1079 chillbarpalmsprings.com

DICK’S ON ARENAS

301 E. Arenas Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.327.0753 eagle501bar.com

HUNTERS

302 E. Arenas Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.323.0700 hunterspalmsprings.com

ONE ELEVEN BAR

67555 E Palm Canyon Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234

760.537.3111 oneelevenbar.com

OSCAR’S

125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Suite 108 Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.325.1188 oscarspalmsprings.com

QUADZ

200 S. Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.778.4326 Spurline.com

STREET BAR

224 E. Arenas Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.320.1266 psstreetbar.com

THE BARRACKS

67-625 E. Palm Canyon Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234

760.321.9688

REFORMA

333 S Palm Canyon Dr Unit 2, Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.902.6630 reformaps.com

THE ROOST LOUNGE

68718 E Palm Canyon Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234

760.507.8495 theroostcc.com

TOOL SHED

600 E. Sunny Dunes Rd. Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.320.3299 pstoolshed.com

TOUCANS TIKI LOUNGE

2100 N. Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.416.7584 toucanstikilounge.com

CLOTHING OPTIONAL RESORTS

BEARFOOT INN

888 N. Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA. 92262

760.699.7641 bearfootinn.com

DESCANSO

288 E. Camino Monte Vista Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.320.1928 descansoresort.com

DESERT PARADISE

615 S. Warm Sands Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.320.5650 desertparadise.com

EL MIRASOL VILLAS

525 Warm Sands Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.327.5913 elmirasol.com

INNDULGE PALM SPRINGS

601 Grenfall Rd Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.327.1408 inndulge.com

SANTIAGO RESORT

650 San Lorenzo Road Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.322.1300 santiagoresort.com

THE HACIENDA

586 S. Warm Sands Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.327.8111 thehacienda.com

TRIANGLE INN PALM SPRINGS

555 San Lorenzo Rd. Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.322.7993 triangle-inn.com

TWIN PALMS

1930 S. Camino Real Palm Springs, CA

760.841.1455 twinpalmsresort.com

VISTA GRANDE RESORT

574 S. Warm Sands Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.322.2404 vistagranderesort.com

CLOTHING & LEATHER

EL TUGGLE

388 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.880.4338 eltuggle.com

GAYMART

305 E. Arenas Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.416.6436

GEAR LEATHER & FETISH

650 E Sunny Dunes Rd #1 Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.322.3363 gearleather.com

PALM SPRINGS DIRECTORY

ROUGH TRADE LEATHER

321 E. Arenas Rd

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.699.7524

roughtradegear.com

GIFTS

DESTINATION PSP

170 North Palm Canyon

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.354.9154 destinationpsp.com

GREETINGS PALM SPRINGS

301 N Palm Canyon Dr # 102 Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.322.5049 greetingspalmsprings.com

JUST FABULOUS

515 N Palm Canyon Dr

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.864.1300 bjustfabulous.com

MISCHIEF CARDS & GIFTS

226 N Palm Canyon Dr

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.322.8555 mischiefcardsandgifts.com

PEEPA’S

120 N Palm Canyon Dr

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.318.3553

peepasps.com

PS HOMEBOYS

108 S. Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.318.7388 pshomeboys.com

Q TRADING COMPANY

606 E Sunny Dunes Rd

Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.416.7150

HAIR SALONS

CUT BARBER

1109 N Palm Canyon Dr

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.322.2999

cutbarber.com

DADDY’S BARBERSHOP

192 S Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.537.1311 daddysbarbershop.com

MEN’S GROOMING SPOT

68487 E Palm Canyon Dr Suite 43 Cathedral City, CA 92234

760.992.0028 mensgroomingspot.com

PS FINE MEN’S SALON

750 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Suite 3 Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.904.0434 psfinemenssalon.com

REALTORS

3 BEARS REALTY

2905 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.699.6175 3bearsrealty.com

PALM SPRINGS HOME TEAM

Conrad Miller (DRE #01973983)

760.464.9559

Brandon Holland (DRE # 01986968)

760.413.1220 Palmspringshometeam.com

RESTAURANTS

1501 UPTOWN GASTROPUB

1501 Uptown Gastropub 1501 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, 92262

760.507.1644 1501uptown.com

BLACKBOOK

315 E. Arenas Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.832.8497 blackbookbar.com

BOOZEHOUNDS PS

2080 North Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.656-0067 boozehoundsps.com

EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

849 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.325.8490 eight4nine.com

FARM

6 La Plaza

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.322.2724 farmspalmsprings.com

JOHANNES

196 S. Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.778.0017 johannespalmsprings.com

RICK’S DESERT GRILL

1596 North Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.325.2127 ricksdesertgrill.com

SHERMAN’S DELI

401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.325.1199 shermansdeli.com

TRILUSSA

68-718 E Palm Canyon Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234

760.328.2300 trilussarestaurant.com

TRIO RESTAURANT

707 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA. 92262

760.854.8746 triopalmsprings.com

WILMA & FRIEDA’S

155 S Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.992.5080 wilmafrieda.com

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

DAP HEALTH

1695 N. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.323.2118 daphealth.org

DESERT CARE NETWORK

760.561.7373 desertcarenetwork.com

DESERT OASIS HEALTHCARE

275 North El Cielo Road Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.325.DOHC (3642) mydohc.com

EISENHOWER HEALTH

39000 Bob Hope Drive Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

760.340.3911 eisenhowerhealth.org

MICHAEL’S HOUSE

1910 S Camino Real Palm Springs, CA 92262

844.768.0633 michaelshouse.com

PALM SPRINGS

ANIMAL SHELTER

4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, CA 92264

760.416.5718 psanimalshelter.org

PALM SPRINGS FRONT RUNNERS & WALKERS frontrunners.clubexpress.com

STONEWALL GARDENS

2150 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.548.0970 stonewallgardens.com

LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT

1301 North Palm Canyon Dr, 3rd Floor Palm Springs, CA 92262

760.416.7790 thecentercv.org

REACH THE PS LGBTQ COMMUNITY AND ADVERTISE WITH GED MAGAZINE

COMPETITIVE RATES

STATEWIDE PRINT DISTRIBUTION

sales@gedmag.com

SAN FRANCISCO DIRECTORY

BARS & CLUBS

440 CASTRO 440 Castro, San Francisco, CA the440.com

BEAUX

2344 Market St., San Franciso, CA beauxsf.com

HI TOPS

2247 Market St, San Francisco, CA

415.551.2500 hitopsbar.com

LOBBY BAR

4230 18th St. Unit A, San Francisco, CA lobbybarsf.com

LOOKOUT

3600 16th St., San Francisco, CA

415.431.0306 lookoutsf.com

MAC’S CLUB

39 Post St., San Jose, CA

408.288.8221

MIDNIGHT SUN

4067 18th St., San Francisco, CA

415.861.4186

midnightsunsf.com

MOBY DICK

4049 18th St., San Francisco, CA

415.294.0731

OASIS

298 11th St., San Francisco, CA

415.795.3180 sfoasis.com

RENEGADES

501 W Taylor St., San Jose, CA

408.275.9902 renegadesbar.carrd.co

SF EAGLE

398 12th St., San Francisco, CA 415.200.2002 sf-eagle.com

SPLASH

65 Post St., San Jose, CA

408.292.2222 splashsj.com

THE CINCH SALOON

1723 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 415.776.4162

THE MIX

4086 18th St., San Francisco, CA 415.431.8616 thesfmix.com

WHITE HORSE BAR

6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA 510.652.3820

HAIR SALONS

HEALING CUTS

2350 Market St., San Francisco, CA 415.286.2970 healingcutssf.com

SPUNK SALON

4147 19th St., San Francisco, CA 415.701.7865 spunksalon.com

THE CASTRO BARBER LOUNGE

2265 Market St., San Francisco, CA 415.678.5942 thecastrobarberlounge.com

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

HEALTH/COUNSELING/SUPPORT

API WELLNESS CLINIC

726 Polk St. SF LGBT Center 1800 Market Street San Francisco, CA apiwellness.org

BILLY DEFRANK

LGBTQ CENTER

938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 408.293.3040 defrankcenter.org

LYRIC CENTER FOR LGBTQQ YOUTH

127 Collingwood St (@ 18th St), San Francisco, CA 415.703.6150 lyric.org

OAKLAND LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER

3207 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland, CA 510.882.2286 oaklandlgbtqcenter.org

PACIFIC CENTER FOR HUMAN GROWTH

2712 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA 510.548.8283 pacificcenter.org

QUEER LIFESPACE

2275 Market St, San Francisco, CA 415.358.2000 queerlifespace.org

RAINBOW COMMUNITY CENTER

2380 Salvio St., Concord, CA 925.692.0090 rainbowcc.org

SF AIDS FOUNDATION

470 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 415.437.3400 strutsf.org

SF LGBT CENTER

1800 Market St, San Francisco, 415.865.5555 sfcenter.org

STONEWALL PROJECT

1035 Market St, #400, San Francisco, CA 415.487.3000 stonewallsf.org

THE TREVOR PROJECT

866.488.7386 Text: 678.678 thetrevorproject.org

UCSF ALLIANCE HEALTH PROJECT

1930 Market St, San Francisco, CA 415.476.3902 ucsf-ahp.org

LEGAL

AIDS LEGAL REFERRAL PANEL

1663 Mission St, #500, San Francisco, CA 415.701.1100 alrp.org

OASIS LEGAL SERVICES

1900 Addison St, #100, Berkeley, CA 510.666.6687 oasislegalservices.org

TRANSGENDER

LAW CENTER

510.587.9696 transgenderlawcenter.org

HOTLINES

THE GLBT HOTLINE OF SAN FRANCISCO: 415.355.0999

GLBT NATIONAL HOTLINE: 1.888.843.4564

GLBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 1.800.246.7743

TREVOR PROJECT HOTLINE (Queer Youth Suicide Prevention): 866.488.7386

CALIFORNIA AIDS, STD, & HEPATITIS HOTLINE: 1.800.367.2437

SEXUAL ASSAULT - COMMUNITY VIOLENCE SOLUTIONS: 800.670.7273

CONTRA COSTA CRISIS CENTER for Suicide & Crisis Intervention: 800.273.8255