Splash Bash is Back!
The biggest weekend of the summer is here!
IION JUST JACK
n May of 2001, I hosted a pool party at my home and the future headquarters of ION Arizona to announce the launch of IONAZ Magazine (the original name). This was before Facebook, Instagram, before the iPhone and, believe it or not, before the Apple iPod. I had a prototype to show my friends to get their advice and opinions. I called the party “Splash Bash 0.” You see, the first public Splash Bash was in July of 2002 where we celebrated the magazine’s one year anniversary. Since then we’ve hosted Splash Bashes every year. We moved Splash Bash to different hotels, different weekends, featured national DJs, performers, artists, strippers, porn stars, drag queens, games, contests and more! But if you’ve never been to a Splash Bash, you’re in for a treat this year. It will be like no other!
This year, after a five year hiatus, we found a great hotel to host Splash Bash 20th Anniversary Weekend. We partnered with BJ Events and The Adult Shoppe to help bring this massive weekend to the Valley. Unlike past Splash Bashes, this year is a full weekend of events including two pool parties, two circuit parties, happy hour and dinner September 13-15. We also have cabanas and daybeds available to rent for the first time. This will be a staycation like no other.
You can purchase individual tickets for each event or save money by purchasing a weekend VIP pass were you get early entry and access to the VIP welcome reception and the VIP lounge on Friday night’s opening party. Stay the weekend with us, old and new friends, with rooms starting at only $109 night. Go to BJEvents.com for more info and tickets.
There’s a lot more going on this month inside this great SPLASH BASH special edition. Don’t miss a beat and don’t forget to get your tickets, rooms and cabanas to The Adult Shoppe SPLASH BASH 20TH ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND!
Jack M. Tesorero Splash Bash Co-Promoter
CREATIVE
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Hernandez
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1995-2024: 29 Years of Design and Creative Excellence
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NOTE: The views expressed in these articles do not necessarily reflect the views of ION Arizona, its staff, or that of its parent company.
Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization within ION Arizona is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organization. To our knowledge, all people photographed and published in ION Arizona are over the age of 18. Some photos were submitted by our readers. To our knowledge, they own the copyrights, and they have given us permission to reproduce them. If you see a picture that you own, please call us immediately and we will remove it from future publications. All copy, text, display, photos, and illustrations in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures, and testimonials of any living person, and that ION Arizona is not responsible for unlawful use of such content.
PHX ATTRACTIONS
ION EVENTS
Fall Sports Leagues
Hey there, Sporty Spice! Put on your jockstrap (c’mon! We know you’ve got a bunch) and let’s play! There’s a lot of sports to choose from: kickball, softball, bowling, volleyball, pickleball … so many balls we can’t even keep count! All genders welcome! Hurry! Check out PHXfray.com and OUTloudSports.com now to sign up!
The Erazona Tour
A Tribute to Taylor Swift by Barbra Seville
You need to calm down! The Blonde One herself hosts double-TayTays who will sing all 274 of the songbird’s repertoire. (Kidding!) Two drink minimum, blah, blah, blah. StandUp Live at CityScape, 50 W. Jefferson St. in Phoenix. Tix at StandUpLive.com
Thursday, September 12 at 7:30 p.m.
Splash Bash
20th Anniversary Weekend
The legendary summer party is back and better than ever! Theme parties, DJ’s, go-go boys, and probably some hanky-panky. Shhh! It all happens at the Monarch Hotel, 4000 Drinkwater Blvd. in Scottsdale. For tickets and info check out BJevents.com
September 13-15
4th Annual Latino Pride Festival
Get your biddy biddy bom-bom on! The largest Latino LGBTQ+ gathering in Arizona celebrates Mexican Independence Day at an event sponsored by the nonprofit, volunteer led Latino organization. Tickets & info at LatinoPrideAlliance.org. It all happens at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix.
Saturday, September 14
The Wizard of Oz
A young girl from Kansas travels to a strange land where she kills the first person she meets, and vows to kill again. Starring Judy Garland who turned men gay. See the 1939 musical on the big screen at the Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St. in downtown Phoenix. Visit OrpheumPHX.com for tickets.
September 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Arizona State Fair
Meet me at the fair! For over 140 years the State Fair has been going strong. There’s livestock, jellies and jams, a petting zoo, Whack-A-Mole, the midway, concerts, and more food on a stick than you can shake a stick at! More info AZstateFair.com 1826 W. McDowell Rd.
September 20-October 27
Arizona Restaurant Week
Oh, come on … what’s a few extra carbs here and there gonna do? Restaurants around the Valley offer special three-course menus that show off the kitchen’s best dishes or new creations made just for Restaurant Week. Visit ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com for more info. Chow down!
September 20-29
Orville Peck - Stampede Tour
Get ready for the masked rider! The hunky, queer, boundarybustin’ country music star who sang “Cowboys Are Frequently Fond of Each Other” is hitting the trail! So, round up yer horses, ‘cause the tour will be riding hard into the Mesa Amphitheater, 263 N. Center St. Tickets: LiveNation.com or call 800-653-8000
Wednesday, October 2 at 6 p.m.
Models: Ryder Owens, Hazel Hoffman, Eddie Bermudez, and Max Lorde
Summer’s not over until we say it is. And it’s a brat summer!
Join ION Arizona, BJ Events and all your friends at the Splash Bash 20th Anniversary sponsored by the Adult Shoppe. Looking for something to wear poolside? The Adult Shoppe has the perfect swimwear that’ll turn heads, so you can undress to impress.
We’ll see you at the in the deep end at the Monarch Hotel in Scottsdale, September 13-15. Rooms and exclusive cabañas are available. Get your tickets BJEvents.com or scan the QR Code.
Photography By: LeakedGlass
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Charlie’s Labor Day Weekend
Walter Studios Weekend Brunch (W)
Walter Studios Weekend Brunch (W)
Charlie’s Labor Day Weekend
Karaoke (W) 8pm
Sazerac Karaoke (W) 8pm
Stacy’s @ Melrose Karaoke (W)
Lounge
Charlie’s Sunday Funday (W)
Undie Mundies (W)
Sazerac Karaoke (W)
Sazerac
Charlie’s Blackout Bingo / Karaoke (W)
Thunderbird
Trivia (W)
Stacy’s @ Melrose Rising Star Drag Show (W)
Charlie’s Bingo / Karaoke (W)
Charlie’s
Charlie’s WTF! Wednesdays (W)
Sazerac Whiskey Flights / Cigars (W)
Stacy’s @ Melrose Communion Goth Night (W)
Sazerac Whiskey Flights / Cigars (W)
WEDNESDAY 4 18 11 25 2
Sazerac
Stacy’s @ Melrose Milkshake Fetish Ball (M)
Sazerac
Thunderbird Lounge Loteria (W)
Stacy’s @ Melrose Communion Goth Night (W) THURSDAY
5 19 12 26 3 7 21 14 28 5 6 20 13 27 4
Sazerac Throwback Thursdays (W)
Sazerac / Roosevelt Row First Friday (M)
Charlie’s Pipin’ Hot Friday’s (W)
Flex Spa’s Phoenix Blackout Night (W)
Charlie’s Pipin’ Hot Friday’s (W)
Sazerac / Roosevelt Row First Friday (M)
Stacy’s @ Melrose Dance Party (W)
Stacy’s @ Melrose Dance Party (W)
Stacy’s @ Melrose Dance Party (W)
Walter Studios Weekend Brunch (W)
ION STREAMING
The Decameron
In school you might’ve read Boccaccio’s medieval classic about life during those madcap years of the Bubonic Plague. This loose adaption tells the wild tale of a collection of Italian peasants and nobles holed up in a castle waiting it out. What to do? Drink wine, plot for your own survival, and have sex. With just about everyone there. Pestilential dark comedy at its best.
Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes
In 1964, long before she co-founded amfAR pushing for Congress to research AIDS, Elizabeth Taylor recorded over 40 hours of interviews. Taylor discusses her life, fame, marriages, successes and failures in her own words. More than just a valentine to the legendary beauty, her confessions give viewers a chance to contextualize her achievements and legacy.
Kaos
A contemporary reimagining of Greek mythology in a dark-comedic style written by Charlie Covell, the queer writer of End of the F***ing World. Brace yourself for an epic struggle between the gods, humans and everything in between as an ancient prophecy is revealed by Zeus (Jeff Goldblum). Look for Eddie Izzard being fabulous.
Lost Boys: Live & Undead
This show sucks! Join Michael & Sam as they navigate a new town, only to discover Michaels’s new friends are legit vampires. Now Sam has to save his brother. All told by puppets! Presented by All Puppet Players at Playhouse on the Park Theatre in the Viad Bldg, 1850 N. Central Ave at Palm Lane. Tix: AllPuppetPlayers.com or call 602-254-2151
September 6 - October 13
ION ARTS
Meshell Ndegeocello
No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin
Meshell Ndegeocello is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musical visionary whose soulful work provides a powerful commentary on race, gender, and LGBTQ+ rights. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. in Phoenix. Tickets at MIM.org or call 480-478-6000
Find out more about her at Meshell.com
Monday, September 16 at 8:30 p.m.
Mrs. Doubtfire
Move over, Mary Poppins! Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Tempe! Rob McClure reprises his Tony-nominated Broadway performance in this hit musical based on the beloved film about of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave. & Apache Blvd. Tix: ASUgammage.com or call 480-965-3434
September 17-22
GET CARTER
By Paul Hutnick
Adult film star Carter Collins may look like the guy-next-door jock type, but there’s a naughty side to him that he’s exploring in his latest films on KinkMen.com.
The Phoenix stud grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. He experienced his first kiss at 14 with his “girlfriend.” He had his first gay experience three years later with his first “boyfriend.”
If Carter had the chance to offer his younger self a piece of advice, it would be to embrace his kinks and to not be ashamed of them. He’s making up for lost time by exploring his wild side in Jailbreak, his new film with Johnny Donovan, available this month at KinkMen.com.
How did you get your start in adult film?
Carter: My career in film was actually provoked by my partner’s mom. We were Facetiming her and she noticed a ring light in our bedroom. She said something like, “I bet you guys are doing OnlyFans,” which we weren’t! But then we thought about it and were like, “Hmmm, what if?” It led to our first studio experience with porn star Austin Wilde.
Your real-life partner is Oliver Marks. You both seem to enjoy making films.
Carter: What I enjoy most is the camaraderie and the friends I’ve made. Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of nasty people in the industry who couldn’t care less about how they act or treat the talent, but there are so many kind and amazing individuals, too. Many have become my besties.
What do you dislike most about the industry?
Carter: That’s simple… early morning call times when I’m bottoming. Ugh! Your recently transitioned from traditional adult films to fetish films. Why?
Carter: I spend a lot of time in my personal life going to dungeons and play spaces and doing really intense stuff for my own personal enjoyment so filming fetish scenes is just another day at the office for me.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in making this transition?
Carter: The biggest challenge is the increased level of work that goes into filming scenes like these. It can be intense when you’re trying to look and feel good on camera while being annihilated. I do a lot of this stuff in my free time, though, so it’s easier for me.
Can you share a memorable experience from working in fetish films?
Carter: My first-time meeting and working with Van Darkholme, the master rigger on set, was memorable. I’d been watching his work for a long time and it was a full circle moment to go from watching his films to being in them. On the second day of shooting, I was tied up and we were in the middle of filming some pretty intense action when Van asked me how old I thought he was. I was trying to catch my breath and gather my brain cells back after being beat and I was a little delirious. He didn’t like my answer (laughs).
You filmed your new KinkMen.com film, Jailbreak, with Van Darkholme.
Carter: I did! It’s a little film I did with the very sexy Johnny Donovan, one of the sweetest and most interactive partners I’ve had on set. Van directed and I really enjoyed being his helper in tying and tormenting Johnny. Since Johnny is so sweet, it made it so much sexier to do bad things to him.
Carter Collins with Johnny Ford
Is there anything you want to try in a film that you haven’t experienced?
Carter: I would love to do something with electro; it’s one of my biggest kinks and it’s not very common. I think that my doing it on film might help open more people up to exploring the kink for themselves.
What misconceptions do people have about fetish films and the performers?
Carter: There’s some talk in the industry that those who do fetish films are freaks. I find that really disheartening and odd, too, especially when the someone saying negative shit about your kinks have some freaky videos on “X.” How does that make sense?
Have you noticed any differences in the audience or fanbase for your fetish work compared to your previous work?
Carter: My audience and fanbase has expanded from my work performing fetish scenes. It’s given me the confidence to be like, “Maybe I can use my kinks to really drive my image in a different way.”
What’s left to do on your life’s bucket list?
Carter: Buy a house, create a really wicked sex room with a lot of bondage furniture – and try cheese from all around the world!
What advice would you give to someone considering entering the fetish film industry?
Carter: First, make sure it’s something you’re actually into. It helps a lot. Second, request me as your scene partner. I’ll take it easy on you. (Laughs) On a serious note, it’s really nice to work with someone observant, experienced, and who you can talk to about the good and the bad that’s happening. I was fortunate enough to shoot my first kink scene with Johnny Ford; not only was he so sexy, he and I knew each other and he walked me through the experience. He comforted me in between shots because he recognized the intensity and toll of the scenarios. It’s so important to have scene partners like that.
What are your future goals?
Carter: My future goals are an ever outwardly expanding thought process. I don’t have one particular goal, just to live the best version of my kinky self. What famous person, living or dead, would you most like to have dinner with?
Carter: Beyoncé! If your answer isn’t Beyoncé, maybe it should be.
ION DANCING FOR ONENTEN
ION SAZERAC
DAN SLATER splash bash dj
By Bryan Arietta
Photo Credit: Freshie by Cain Cooper
If you’ve experienced a Dan Slater event, you know he isn’t just a DJ; he’s a maestro of rhythm, a curator of sonic journeys that ignite dance floors and transcend boundaries. For over a decade, Dan Slater has etched his name into the annals of electronic music, particularly within the vibrant circuit party scene. His sets are a masterclass in building energy as he seamlessly blends genres and tempos to create an immersive experience to keep bodies moving and spirits soaring.
We’re excited to welcome Dan Slater back to Arizona for Splash Bash’s 20th Anniversary Weekend. While in Europe between festivals and Atlantis cruises, he made time to answer questions about his experiences.
ION: Take us back to the very early days of your DJing career: How did you get into DJing?
Dan Slater: Before I was a DJ I used to perform in musicals including Mamma Mia!, Fiddler on the Roof, We Will Rock You, Shout! The Legend of the Wild One, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Chicago: The Musical. I even got the opportunity to dance for Kylie and Dannii Minogue. After I finished Chicago I decided to go to university to study a Bachelor of Business in Marketing. When I was doing my internship at Foxtel I started learning to DJ as a creative outlet. I kicked off my DJ career as the winner of the Sydney Mardi Gras DJ Spin-Off Competition in 2012. At first it was really hard to get booked by promoters who said, “You’re not a real DJ.” But I persevered and never gave up. I love my job, and I’m so thankful for the opportunities I’ve had.
ION: How do you describe your musical style? How it has evolved over the years?
DS: My favorites genres to play were Deep and Tropical House, Big Room, and House. I always try and keep my sets upbeat and high energy. My first DJ residency was at bar called Hugo’s in Sydney. I loved it because I could play Deep and Tropical House every Sunday for three years, but I didn’t get much of a chance to play it again ‘til 2021. Different genres become more popular again over the years. Now I really enjoying playing and producing Disco music too.
ION: Which DJs or artists have been mentors for you? Who are your favorite artists?
DS: I didn’t really have any DJ mentors, but I had few local and international DJs and producers who I really look up to because of their work ethic and music production. My favorite artists are Mark Knight, Kaskade, and Purple Disco Machine.
ION: How would you describe the atmosphere and energy of an event you DJ to someone who’s never been to one?
DS: It’s electric, and I love the energy you get from people when they come to my events. Good vibes only, please! However, I still get nervous, which is a good thing.
Photo Credit: Volos by Cain Cooper
ION: How do you read the crowd and adjust your set to keep the energy high and the dance floor packed?
DS: You can usually tell by the way the crowd engage with you and each other. I always prepare a set for a specific event. I’ll make sure I check through promos, and find and buy new tracks to keep things fresh. However, sometimes that doesn’t work at all and you just pick classic and anthems that people always love as your set goes.
ION: You have been to so many amazing places and headlined some of the biggest and best festivals around the world. Which has been your favorite? Which would be your highest recommendation for others to experience?
DS: I brought my mom to Circuit Festival in Barcelona and on her first Atlantis Cruise in 2019. It was one of my favorites because she was able to see what I’ve achieved, and she loved meeting everyone that I work with, too.
My top four favorite events to DJ: Domain Dance Party (Sydney), Market Days (Chicago), Circuit Festival (Barcelona), and White Party (Bangkok)
I would recommend doing an Atlantis Cruise, Circuit Festival in Barcelona and White Party in Bangkok.
ION: A DJ has a great view overlooking the crowd, giving you the opportunity to see what most can’t. What’s the wildest, craziest, or weirdest thing you’ve seen while DJ’ing?
DS: Wildest, craziest, or weirdest thing ... I’m not sure if you want to know, or if I should even be mentioning it. (laughs)
ION: What’s your advice to anyone who wants to become a DJ and
DS: Advice: be supportive of fellow DJ/ producers and people in the industry. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Make sure you focus your creativity on original productions and remixes.
ION: Who do you see as up-and-coming talent?
DS: Two DJs that are doing really well right now and I think will be ones to watch are Karsten Sollors and Amar Alemão.
Dan Slater will be closing out Splash Bash Weekend on Sunday, September 15th from 11 am to 3 pm with the “Cool Down” Pool Party at The Monarch hotel in Scottsdale.
For more information and to get tickets or weekend passes go to BJEvents.com.
Connect with Dan and all his socials by finding him on Linktree: linktr.ee/DanSlater
Photo Credit: Mr. Palmer by Cain Cooper
NAVIGATION
Use the ION ARIZONA APP for Google Maps turn-by-turn directions with links to UBER & LYFT! DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!
fezoncentral.com
flexspas.com
ftrooftop.com
hulasmoderntiki.com
karambanightclub.com
kingpingrill.com
kobaltbarphoenix.com
mipatioaz.com
nutownebar.com
ozbarphx.com
rewinedphx.square therockdmphoenix
sazeracphoenix.com
stacysatmelrose.com thunderbirdloungephx
walterstudios.com walterwherehouse.com
ION FABULANCE
It’s Virgo season and Uranus gets freaky with its annual backspin suggesting clearing out your mental hard drive. ¶ September 17: Full Moon & Partial Lunar Eclipse happens in conjunction with Neptune, adding a Stevie Nicks-like layer of mysticism and dreams, so get out your tambourine. Habits and patterns and behaviors that are past their shelf life might need adjustment. ¶ September 22: Hey, Pagans! Get ready for a feast! The Autumn Equinox is here! You improved your development and with a better understanding of your values and true authenticity, boosting your gumption.
ARIES Mar. 21 - Apr. 20
Get out your magic wand and make some magic happen! Remember to share that wizardry with others. Remember, the galaxy is not your cosmological clean-up crew.
ION HOMOSCOPES
TAURUS April. 21 - May 20
Say “yes” to a social invitation; it’ll pay off when you meet new, influential people. Ask others to buy into your vision – you’ll know it when you see it. HINT: It doesn’t involve starting a cult.
GEMINI May 21 - June 21
It feels like you’re on a rollercoaster, the brakes are off and you keep screaming, “Oh my god! Oh my god!” You’re always so dramatic. There’s a safety net. You just need to look for it.
CANCER June 22 - July 22
Everything’s a mixed bag of results. The Sun and Saturn are having a stand-off. Venus is flirty – as usual. Mars is grumpy and causes problems. Jupiter handles everything, thank goodness.
LEO July 23 - Aug. 22
Think about hitting the “re-set” button. Show us a new, improved version of you. Unveil a new approach to everything go on around you. We’re impressed!
VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sep. 22
You’re on the road to self-discovery! You impress Next stop: the Truth! The New Moon encourages a new beginning. Birthday? This is a golden chance to rewrite storylines. “Once upon a time …” You fill in the rest because you got the magical bibbidy-bobbodi-boo, boo!
LIBRA Sep. 23 - Oct. 22
Take a deep dive in your mind, baby. Venus is bringing your ego awareness. Uranus helps you cash in on greater understanding. A birthday balances your Scales of Justice by leveling the familiar with the unknown. Your optimism is a gift. And your bad-ass, sexy self.
SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov.23
First step: set practical, detailed goals. Bossy Mars helps you to be more assertive, even pushy. It’s kinda hot, really. The Full Moon sets up an emotional, transformative moment for you. Think you can handle it?
SAGITTARIUS Nov. 23 - Dec. 23
Learn, explore and improve yourself. New projects keep you busy, but don’t forget your obligations or promises you made. Remember that lunch date? We didn’t think so. See?
CAPRICORN Dec. 23 - Jan. 20
Communication opens up a new avenue of personal growth. You’re usually pretty quiet, but this is a good time to start emoting. Troubling conflicts are resolved.
AQUARIUS Jan. 21 - Feb. 19
Inspiration! Manifestation! Imagination! Jeez! The glow up is real! What’s your secret? You’re not who you were last year – not counting the weird Taylor Swift phase you went through.
PISCES Feb. 20 - Mar. 20
It’s mind-bending scavenger hunt, little fishies! discipline, minding your own business, and visionary magic. With the Full Moon Partial Eclipse make a bet … on yourself. Expect a big payoff.
