TheStandard_Vol10_Issue12.pdf

COMMENTARY

We wish all of our readers, supporters and partners a safe and very happy holiday season. We are very grateful and truly appreciative for your support. The support of which allows us to continue to be a successful publication; we could not have done it without you, a million thanks. Also, a huge thanks to our incredibly awesome Art Director, Maya Kalabic, fantastic photographer David A. Lee, our great team of writers, and of course our advertisers. We look forward to providing you with great editorial, LGBTQ news, views, and perspectives as well as fun and informative features as we move into 2023.

All the Best for an amazing Holiday & Very Happy, Safe, & Prosperous New Year

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NINO EILETS Publisher LUCIANO McNULTY Editor MAYA KALABIC Art Director PHOTOGRAPHER David A. Lee

CONTRIBUTORS

Martha Tang, John Stein, Jeremy Faust, Stacy Holmes, Greg Stillwell, Dann Foley, Jill Langham & Terri Schlichenmeyer www.thestandardps.com

The Standard Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinions of the Standard or its staff, advertisers or readers with exception of editorials. Publication of the name or photograph of any person, business or organization in articles or advertising in the Standard is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person, business or organization. The Standard disclaims any responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Advertising rates are subject to change without notice. The Standard reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to reject any advertisement for any reason including, but not limited to poor taste. It is the policy of The Standard that we only publish letters to the editor that are signed by the author and verifiable by phone number. We can reserve the right of anonymity upon request. The letters need to be original, in good taste and free of libel as well as edited for clarity and grammar. Letters are subject to editing by The Standard that also reserves the right to decline print. Please forward your letters to: info@thestandardps.com The views expressed is not necessarily those of The Standard. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. No portion of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed consent of the publisher.

EDITORIAL CREDITS : BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation, Project Publicity, MSN, Reuters, NBC News & Artsy

THE STANDARD MAGAZINE: A LOOK BACK TO 2022

COMPILED BY JEREMY FAUST

As we look forward to a New Year, we would like to revisit some of the articles featured on the pages of The Standard Magazine, highlighting excerpts from articles from each month that deserve a second gander. You can read the complete article by simply clicking on the link after each excerpt. We hope you enjoy this trip down memory lane.

Place and Time Celebrates LGBTQIA+ Diversity in Musical Theatre – December 2021

By Joseph Gerbino

Musical theater is often regarded as being “so gay”, but EllaRose Chary and Brandon James Gwinn feel that despite that, it’s often not very “queer.” The writing team behind the 2021 Richard Rodgers Award winning musical, TL; DR Thelma Louise; Dyke Remix, aim to change that. Their new album, Place and Time, is shining a spotlight on women, queer POC, theys, enbys and trans folk. “We are here too,” says EllaRose Chary, “and like everyone else, we experience a range of feelings and circumstances that aren’t all centered on our trauma or our otherness.” Place and Time features Broadway artists from under-represented segments of the community singing about emotions that all can relate to. The songs are fun, flirty, emotional, and nostalgic; sung by characters who are revved-up, spiced-up and sometimes fed up. “We hope listeners will relate to the characters and maybe even see themselves reflected in the canon,” says Brandon James Gwinn. Starring Tituss Burgess, Amber Gray, Telly Leung, Tony Award Winner Daisy Eagan and an all-star cast of Broadway performers, Place and Time is available on Spotify and Apple Music.

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Picture Perfect

The Iconic Michael Childers - January 2022

By Dominic Silva

For the past several decades, photographer Michael Childers has captured the essence of Hollywood’s most famous faces. The roster of artists featured in his iconic portraits is a virtual who’s who of the Hollywood elite: Julie Christie, Catherine Deneuve, Clint Eastwood, Richard Gere, Dennis Hopper, Rock Hudson, Grace Jones, Shirley MacLaine, Groucho Marx, Demi Moore, Paul Newman, Laurence Olivier, Michelle Pfeiffer, Isabella Rosellini, John Travolta, Andy Warhol, Mae West, and Natalie Wood to name a few.

Childers also shot on-set still photography during the production of countless films over the years. He captured the making of such films as Midnight Cowboy (1969), The Day of the Locust (1975), Marathon Man (1976), Coal Miner’s Daughter (1980), The Year of Living Dangerously (1983), The Terminator (1984) and Torch Song Trilogy (1988) among others.

A new exhibit featuring the works of Michael Childers and Gordon Clark opened in December at Joshua Tree Gallery of Contemporary Art to critical acclaim. For the new exhibition, “Emergence”, the Michael Childers’ exhibited works include his stunning newest body of work, Nude Fusions (2021), his provocative and never-before- exhibited White Party (2002) collection, fantastic selections from his LA Drag Ball (1974) that was previously exhibited at the Palm Springs Art Museum, and several of his famous portraits of Hollywood celebrities.

In addition to the exhibit, Childers will be honored at the CV Rep Luminary Luncheon on February 17. We sat down with him to discuss the stories behind his iconic images, his latest show, and highlights over the course of his career.

Thank you, Michael, for taking the time to sit with us, let’s get started. Have you always wanted to be a photographer? And when did you realize this would be the career path you would take?

MICHAEL: My interest in photography in high school for the newspaper and the annual and then when I went to UCLA, I studied photography and many of my fellow classmates were actors and musicians who needed head shots. I was working my way through college doing headshots and then I would do book jackets, one for Ray Bradbury then I did TV Guide for Kaye Ballard and that’s where it all began…quite early on.

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Move, I’m Gay Podcast Celebrates 100th Episode

By Mike Bahr

- February 2022

Move, I’m Gay, the podcast starring Francisco and Brendan (better known to listeners as Franny and Brenda) will premiere its 100th episode on Tuesday, February 22, 2022. Taped live each week from their studio in Portland, Oregon, the show has gained a national following for the comical camaraderie between its two seemingly polar-opposite hosts. While Franny dishes on the latest entertainment dirt, and maybe belts out a Top 40 hit or two, Brenda references obscure gay historical facts. There’s also a bit of politics thrown in, as the two banter, laugh, and drink their way into listener’s hearts.

“I had never been a fan of podcasts,” admits Francisco. “I have only listened to a couple and most of them have been true crime, so it’s interesting to find myself hosting a comedy show. Honestly, the real reason I’m here is I broke my leg and I needed something to do with my life.”

The pair had only hung out with each other casually before starting the Move, I’m Gay podcast in February 2020. “We have very different personalities,” Brendan explains. “Francisco is up on trends and I’m slightly clueless to them, but we seem to mesh well in terms of our interaction and it’s nice to have solidified our friendship through two years of weekly recordings.”

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The Skinny on Body Lift Surgery

From a Broadway Producer Who Experienced It. – March 2022

By Jason Salerno

“I don’t have a memory of not struggling with my weight,” reflects Tom D’Angora, the prolific theatre producer behind such productions as Naked Boys Singing! playing now in New York City and Las Vegas. “It has been a constant battle since I was a young kid. I spent my entire youth morbidly obese. At one point, I tipped the scale at nearly 400 pounds.”

Looking at him now, it is hard to believe. At 40-years-old, Tom is trimmer, healthier, and more muscular than ever before. His tremendous weight loss won praise from family and friends, as well as his legions of fans in the theatre industry, but all of that changed when Tom decided, as a special gift to himself, to give himself a full body lift.

“I posted about my decision online and the negativity was swift and severe,” he explains. “So many of the comments were about how dangerous the procedure was and how narcissistic I must be to even consider pursuing such a drastic operation.”

Body lift surgery is a procedure used to remove the excess, sagging skin many people are left with after massive weight loss. It is a specialized subset of cosmetic surgery and very expensive. Recovery times are long, and it is important that patients choose an experienced cosmetic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.

The results are long lasting for those who maintain the weight loss and the rewards are a more youthful, natural appearance and a significant improvement in comfort and selfconfidence that can last a lifetime. Tom D’Angora explains more.

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Songs For & By Transgender and Nonbinary People – April 2022

By Ben Nelson

NewMusicShelf has released the first-ever volume of songs written for and/or by transgender and nonbinary people. Anthology of New Music: Trans & Nonbinary Voices presents composers who highlight the multifaceted intersections unique to the lived experiences of transgender and nonbinary people and stands as a declaration that despite the many historical attempts to isolate them, these communities will not be silenced.

Their voices are beautiful, and through printed compositions, the anthology spotlights these important artists so that the world can recognize and revel in their beauty.

“As a trans nonbinary singer, I often found opera and musical theater compositions to be aggressively gendered and binary,” reflects Aiden Feltkamp, the book’s curator. “I was at a loss for repertoire that spoke to me.”

They approached Dennis Tobenski, a composer and vocalist who runs a boutique music publishing company in New York City, with the idea to build a collection of vocal and piano music that centered on identity.

While typical NewMusicShelf publications focus on a particular instrument or voice type, what Feltkamp was proposing would be like no other anthology before — a first of its kind. However, it was a concept that Tobenski, a gay man, could relate with. In the early 2000s, Tobenski recalls very little music featuring a man loving another man. “What did exist wasn’t exactly visible for a kid like me growing up gay in the cornfields of Illinois. I was forced to either sing about loving women, coopt soprano repertoire about loving men, or not sing about love at all.”

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Top Travel Destinations in 2022 – May 2022

By Dominic Ellis

LGBTQ travelers have been waiting to get back on the road and discover new destinations as well as reacquaint themselves with some old favorites. 2022 is supposed to be when traveling will be back in high gear. Coming out of such a long period of constraints and limitations, 2022 will be the year we wring every bit of richness and meaning out of our experiences. From gorgeous beach destinations to dynamic urban experiences, LGBTQ travelers are always looking for that next “new” place to visit. One thing to remember, though: The world is still in a state of uncertainty. So, if you’re planning a trip anywhere these days, you should check travel restrictions for the destination you are hoping to visit and consider warnings from the State Department and the CDC.

Because no matter what type of trip you’ve been dreaming of, we want to help you turn 2022 into the year you get back out there and make it a reality.

Here are the top destinations that should be on the radar for queer travelers in 2022.

LGBTQ Travel Safety

By Matt Solomon

Safety should be a top priority for every traveler. Overall, traveling as a LGBTQ traveler isn’t much different than traveling for others, but there are times special considerations should be made. It is important to keep in mind that as a LGBTQ traveler, a destination’s attitude toward the LGBTQ community is an important factor to consider. Experiences for LGBTQ travelers can vary globally, so it is important to understand where you are traveling, so you can have an enjoyable and safe vacation or business trip. We recognize the need for greater understanding and awareness about safety for LGBTQ travelers and developed the following resources and support to assist LGBTQ travelers with information that will help them feel more comfortable as they plan their travel.

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PRIDE Month 2022 – June 2022

By Christian Acevedo

The LGBTQ+ rights movement has made tremendous strides over the past few decades and much of the progress in visibility is thanks in part to gay pride parades and marches that have taken place in cities around the world. The global landscape for LGBTQ+ rights, protections and acceptance vary tremendously by location, with some destinations attracting millions of visitors to their events like Madrid Gay Pride, Sao Paulo Gay Pride or San Francisco Gay Pride, while more than 70 other countries have laws that allow discrimination or persecution of LGBTQ+ people.

LGBTQ+ pride events including pride parades and festivals were started in major urban centers to improve the visibility, acceptance, and legal protections for LGBTQ+ people living in those communities. While the aim of pride day started with a political nature, many cities around the world have such wide acceptance and legal protections that many events have become a celebration of pride for the local LGBTQ+ community. Depending on the country or city where the event is being held, the marches and parades often campaign

for recognition and acceptance of same-sex marriage, legal protections for couples and families, anti-discrimination laws or trans rights. Although there are still obstacles in achieving full acceptance and protections for the LGBTQ+ community, the progress made just over the past few decades has been significant. Over the past 50 years, pride events, marches and demonstrations have evolved considerably. In western nations where LGBTQ+ people are protected and acceptance is high, many pride events have grown in scale, welcoming millions of visitors to their celebrations. Major cities like New York, São Paulo, and Madrid host some of the largest events in the world with crowds of up to 5 million people.

In honor of Pride month, we at The Standard Magazine would like to acknowledge the accomplishments and sacrifice of those LGBTQ+ trailblazers who paved and continue to pave the way for the LGBTQ+ movement.

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What’s On YOUR Plate? 2022 Food Trends – July 2022

By Chris Astrala

Remember when kale was the new lettuce, quinoa the new rice and cauliflower the new mashed potato? We are constantly looking for that latest thing to tickle our taste buds and savor the next new thing to please our culinary whims. We’ve run down the most anticipated Food Trends for 2022 that will stand to shape how, why, and what we will be eating this year and perhaps beyond.

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At Eisenhower Health, we are immensely proud that our medical center has earned national recognition for our heart programs. Our stellar team of specialists and subspecialists collaborate to deliver comprehensive cardiac care, from diagnostics through rehab, and we perform more than 6,000 cardiac procedures a year. Because our specialists are committed to research and clinical trials, we tend to be early adopters of the newest treatment techniques, from minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and mitral valve procedures to laser lead extraction. So when it comes to your heart, use your head.

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Heart to learn more.

EisenhowerHealth.org/Heart 760-346-0642

Rancho Mirage ~ Palm Springs ~ La Quinta

From prevention, to treatment, to rehabilitation, we put our hearts into caring for yours.

The boys of summer are back – and you know what that means: All Of them butts! Aside from gawking at your baseball favorite players’ posteriors in form-fitting pinstriped pants, there are plenty of queer cheers to give for America’s national pastime. Batter up!

Glenn Burke broke the first barrier – but it may have cost him. As an outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1976 to ’78 (and widely regarded co-inventor of the high-five – true story), Glenn Burke broke ground as the first active MLB player to come out as gay to his teammates and bosses. While he was asked to refrain from making his sexual orientation public by Dodgers’ top brass, Burke told People magazine in 1994 that his “mission as a gay ballplayer was to break a stereotype” and he thought it worked. In other interviews and in his autobiography, however, he suggested that prejudice drove him out of the sport, not the injury that sent him back down to the minors after a year with the Oakland Athletics.

The A’s released Burke from his contract before the end of his injured farm-team season, and he retired from the game in 1980.

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Sha-wing Batter! Queer Facts About America’s Favorite Pastime – August 2022 July 2022 by Mikey Rox

Must See: Highly Anticipated LGBTQ+ Films & TV of 2022 – September 2022

By Joseph P Navarro

Queer film is more diverse than ever, with 2022’s slate of forthcoming and currently running films and TV programs depicting LGBTQ+ characters in a variety of genres. These movies include a groundbreaking rom com from Billy Eichner, a new Whitney Houston biopic, and a documentary about a transgender woman who participated in a pioneering trans research study.

LGBTQ+ films aren’t easy to come by! Despite the progress we’ve made with representation over the years, it can still be difficult to find new queer movies worthy of a watch.

Ranging from experimental indie titles to mega-budget studio films, 2022 will offer many exciting and significant works aiming to highlight and platform LGBTQ+ perspectives that the world needs to see. This year, feature-length documentaries and films will focus on sharing real and fictionalized LGBTQ+ experiences that many mainstream audiences and filmmakers a have often dismissed. The LGBTQ+ films and programs of 2022 will operate as significant cultural works that will represent underserved communities in our culture

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2022 Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards Recognizing Community Members Making a Difference – October 2022

By Ron deHarte

The prestigious awards honor individuals for their work advancing the causes of LGBTQ individuals and their allies. Five awards celebrate extraordinary voices in the community. The recipients include a Trans Advocate, a community organizer, a reproductive health advocate, an Air Force veteran and community leader, someone who has devoted three decades to improving the lives of women and the LGBTQ+ community, and someone with thirty years of service advocating for health care for people living with HIV.

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Fighting Long COVID - November 2022

by Alicia Green

Dr. David Morris, DAP Health chief medical officer, discusses what it is and next steps following a diagnosis. When most people get COVID-19, they tend to recover once the infection leaves their body. But some adults have been experiencing what scientists and doctors call “long COVID,” which can drastically change a person’s life and health. “Long COVID is the syndrome that people can experience after three months of having had COVID, and they continue to have symptoms after that,” says Dr. David Morris, chief medical officer at DAP Health. “The recovery can be for the rest of their lives or for another six months to one year.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 40% of U.S. adults have reported having COVID-19. Of those adults, 19% report that they still have symptoms of long COVID. The condition is also known as long-haul COVID, chronic COVID and post-acute COVID-19, among other names.

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BOOK REVIEW ALWAYS OVERBOOKED

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

The tree looks magnificent.

Everyone did a great job decorating the parts you assigned to them; you took pictures this year, because they really outdid themselves. So, you’re ready – almost – for the holidays, except for those few tricky gifts that you just can’t seem to figure out.

How about books? Easy to wrap, happy to get, why not look for these great books...

Lovers of fantasy stories will love unwrapping “Illuminations” by Alan Moore, a collection of short stories with an underlying theme of comics and the industry. Perfect for the young gamer or comix reader.

For the giftee who likes novels with a twist, wrap up “The Storyteller’s Death” by Ann Davila Cardinal. It’s the tale of a girl who learns, at age 18, that she’s a “storyteller,” which is something that’s passed down through the women of her family. But this blessing turns out to be a curse when she “sees” a murder that happened long ago. Pair it up with “The Strange Inheritance of Leah Fern” by Rita Zoey Chin, also a story of a young “fortune teller” and a vision she may or may not have wanted.

The person on your list who is Of a Certain Age will absolutely love getting “Killers of a Certain Age” by Deanna Raybourn. It’s a thrillermystery about four women who’ve worked as assassins for decades but suddenly, everyone thinks their methods are outdated. They’re sent “on vacation” but it’s really no vacation. How do they get out alive?

Lovers of short mysteries will love to find “Reader, I Buried Them and Other Stories” by Peter Lovesey. This book, in celebration of Lovesey’s more-than-fifty years of mystery-writing, is full of mayhem, murder, and you know your giftee will want it.

The reader who wants a little diversity in their selection will love

“Latino Almanac: From Early Explorers to Corporate Leaders” by Nicolas Kanellos, PhD. It’s a book that’s absolutely filled with mini biographies of Latino luminaries, heroes, and inspirations, and it’s perfect for any reader aged 14 and up. Pair it with “Indigenous Firsts: A History of Native American Achievements and Events” by Yvonne Wakim Dennis, Arlene Hirschfelder, and Paulette F. Molin. It’s a book that’s filled with fast facts about the achievements of indigenous Americans.

“Sentient: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Human Senses” by Jackie Higgins, for a gift that’ll make your animal lover roar.

For your media-obsessed giftee, “It’s Not TV: The Spectacular Rise, Revolution, and Future of HBO” by Felix Gillette and John Koblin is a nice eye-opener and a look at how we watch television, even in an age of streaming. Pair it with a book that reads like a movie: “Same Ground” by Russell Wangersky, a book about a journey across America, in search of a family story.

If you’ve got a rabid current events fan on your gift list this year, then wrap up “The Storm is Upon Us: How QAnon Became a Movement, Cult, and Conspiracy Theory of Everything” by Mike Rothschild. It’s an eye-opener. Wrap it up with “Seek and Hide” by Amy Gajda. It’s about our right to privacy throughout history, what it means, and how the demand for privacy today can be a good thing or a bad thing, or “Conspiracies and Secret Societies, third edition” by Brad Steiger and Sherry Hansen Steiger. How could anyone not want to own one of the last books by these two late, great authors?

The historian on your gift list will whoop when the wrapping comes off “The Escape Artist” by Jonathan Freedland. It’s the story of a man who broke out of Auschwitz and lived to tell the world what was going on. It’s a true story that reads like a deadly thriller.

If there’s someone on your list who is interested in the paranormal, then wrap up “Here & Hereafter” by Tyler Henry, who is a Hollywood medium. What can your giftee learn from the dead? Find out by pairing it with “Hollywood Horrors” by Andrea Van Landingham. Oh, the scandals and murders in Tinseltown past!

The activist in your life will be very happy with “The White Allies Handbook” by Lecia Michelle. Yes, it’s a book meant to teach white readers how to eliminate racism within their own lives, but it’s also a good way to learn to help friends who are working on it. Wrap it up with “No Justice, No Peace” by Devin Allen, with images by Gordon Parks. It’s a book that’s filled with inspirations messages and pictures from 60 years of activism.

For the reader – male or female – who’s interested in the culture of manhood, you’ll want to wrap up “Patriarchy Blues” by Frederick Joseph. It’s a collection of essays, poetry, and reflections on what it means to be a man today.

Readers of any age will enjoy unwrapping “Originals! Black Women Breaking Barriers” by Jessie Carney Smith, PhD. It’s a fascinating (and browse-able!) collection of mini-biographies about Black women who changed the world. Pair it with “Ride or Die” by Shanita Hubbard, a “feminist manifesto” for Black women and slip “Black Women Will Save the World” by April Ryan (yes, the journalist April Ryan) into the package, too.

For the person on your list who loves dark, gothic romanceymysteries, wrap up “Mourning Light” by Richard Goodkin. It’s the story of a man who can’t let go of the guilt he feels since his lover died. Coincidentally, that death happened on the exact same day he met another man that he can’t stop thinking about.

NONFICTION

The person on your gift list who loves a good memoir will want to read “A Place Called Home” by David Ambroz. It’s a tale of homelessness, foster care, coming out, and how sheer determination put that all in one man’s past.

If there’s someone on your gift list who made a difficult decision this year, “Families We Keep” by Rin Reczek and Emma BosleySmith is a book to carefully wrap up. It’s a look at LGBTQ individuals who have decided to stick with their families, though there may continue to be a struggle for acceptance or a total lack of it. It means work, and this book might help. Know your giftee well before giving this book.

Until recently, there really haven’t been a lot of books about bisexuality, which is why you might want to give “Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality” by Julia Shaw to someone special. There’s a lot to know about the subject, from genetics to legalities, celebrities to monogamy.

BOOK REVIEW

The trans reader on your gift list will want to own “Fat, Crazy, and Tired: Tales from the Trenches of Transformation” by podcaster Van Lathan. who writes that being fat was harder than being Black. Needless to say, this book is funny and inspirational, and your giftee will love it. Pair it with “Side Affects: On Being Trans and Feeling Bad” by Hil Malatino. If your giftee sometimes struggles, this book is great acknowledgement.

For the reader who loves history, “The Women’s House of Detention” by Hugh Ryan could be the perfect gift this year. It’s the story of a prison in New York’s Greenwich Village which, for nearly 45 years, was the landing place / home / jail for thousands and thousands of women, gender-nonconforming people, and transgender men. Angela Davis was there. So was Afeni Shakur. This book takes your giftee there, too. Wrap it up with “Manifesting Justice: Wrongly Convicted Women Reclaim Their Rights” by Valena Beety

So, your giftee is obsessed with The Godfather movies, eh? Well, then, you can’t go wrong if you wrap up “The Godmother: Murder, Vengeance, and the Bloody Struggle of Mafia Women” by Barbie Latza Nadeau. It’s the story of the women behind the men in the mob. Giving it to someone is an offer you can’t refuse.

For the person who can appreciate a good true crime tale set

outside the U.S., look for “In the Mouth of the Wolf” by Katherine Corcoran. It’s the story of a woman journalist who’s about to expose corruption in the Mexican government but she’s thwarted in many ways. When she’s found dead in her motel bathroom, Corcoran, then the AP Mexican bureau chief, goes in search of answers. Speaking of answers, pair it with “The Forever Witness” by Edward Humes. It’s the story of a double murder that happened in Seattle more than thirty years ago and the trail went cold... until the use of DNA became more common and other technology put the case front-and-center.

Someone on your gift list loves the movies, and half the fun of that is wondering if what’s on the big screen is really possible. So, you wrap up “License to Kill: The Science of 007” by Kathryn Harkup and collect your smiles. This book looks at all the what ifs of the Bond movies, from the POV of real science, and no armchair detective will be able to resist.

There’s a foodie on your gift list who would love getting “Ten Tomatoes that Changed the World” by William Alexander. This book weaves a long, juicy trail from South America and Mexico to the New World and around the world to show how one vegetable changed the way we eat.

INDESIGN

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU REVIEW, REFRESH, REJUVENATE

BY DANN FOLEY

At the end of each year, after overindulging through the holidays, many of us make promises to ourselves of sweeping changes in every aspect of our lives. Then when not living up to the impossible standard comes the inevitable sense of failure comes. The truth is, meaningful change does not usually happen in waves, but in ripples. You don’t have to be perfect, just make an effort.

I have always found that making slight adjustments to my life and lifestyle have always been the best way to exact lasting change. Small steps and incremental adjustments are how I make changes matter.

When considering new ways of living for myself, or for one of our clients, I consider how they live first. If a makeover is to be lasting, it has to be doable, sustainable and maintainable. You can choose to change your lifestyle from top to bottom but, to keep it from becoming daunting and even insurmountable, you want to understand where you are starting and where you want to end up.

In making over one’s home, we delve into the way our clients live. The process is an intimate one and we need to consider every aspect and nuance of the way people live to be truly successful. This includes the all-important piece the longevity puzzle… the ability to maintain a new way of living.

Once we have come to understand the way a client wants to live, we then create a plan to get them there. It is not as simple of redecorating or renovating a kitchen or bathroom. We often joke that in our office, we are as much therapists as we are designers. To create change, we must know where you are coming from. And just as in therapy, design is best left to the professionals (LOL)!

Just as you might go inward at this time of year, as a way of reviewing the past twelve months, you can do the same with your home and the way you live. As I have said many times here in my monthly musings, Lifestyle is not just about the things in your home, it is about the way you live and the choices you make in every part of your life.

Just think about the number of decisions and choices you make from the time you wake up to the time you leave the house to start your day. Do you make your bed? Do you workout/exercise? Do you shower, shave, apply makeup, moisturizer, etc.? What are you going to wear? Do you eat breakfast, or no breakfast at all? Do you need a jacket, umbrella, hat? Drive, walk, carpool or bike to work? What plans do you make for lunch? Check your emails before you leave for the office? My point is that there are so many considerations that you may not even be aware of just in getting out the door. All of these are pieces to the puzzle that make up your life and lifestyle.

BEFORE AFTER

Before & After programs and magazine issues are an inspiring but, how can you really apply them to your own life? When you can look beyond the drama and glamour of the makeover, that is when you start learning a thing or two about applying similar principals in the way you live as well. What I hope you see, is that it is not about trying to copy or recreate what you see in an exceptional makeover, it is about finding that part of yourself that you may not be connected with yet. It is about the revelatory effect that building an authentic life and lifestyle have on your comfort, both physical and emotional.

When we make the choice to live a better life, it is the staying power that is the long-term issue. But, if you make decisions based on what you truly love, who you truly are, and what you truly want, you cannot go wrong. Then, sticking to your new year’s resolutions is easy.

As always, be easy on yourself. This isn’t brain surgery, it’s just decorating. You cannot get it wrong. Choose what you love and you will find your life and your lifestyle abundant.

Live Well!

Dann@FoleyStinnette.com

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AFTER AFTER

BEFORE BEFORE

FEATURE

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GAY GIFT GIVING – 2022 EDITION

BY MIKEY ROX

Drawing a blank on what to gift the gays and feys on your holiday shopping list? Consider these thoughtful presents picked exclusively for your LGBTQ+ friends and family.

Mr. & Mr. Claus Mugs

Two glazed-ceramic Santas are better than one when you cop SUNNY&TED’s handpainted Mr. and/or Mrs. cocoa mugs available in three blush-faced skin tones and two genders to accurately rep your festive-queer holiday cheer. SunnyAndTed.com, $27.50 each

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

One of your nice-listers resolving to travel more in the new year? Set ’em up for success with the National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands’ America the Beautiful annual pass, supplying access for the holder (plus guests) to over 2,000 federal sites in the United States, including parks, monuments, battlefields, protected wildlife refuges, stunning seashores, and more. Recreation.gov, $80

VAHDAM India’s Hannukah-special assortment of luscious herbal, chai, and black teas –paired with Subarzsweets’ handmade, smallbatch biscotti-cookie hybrids (the lemon-thyme flavor is what the chef’s kiss emoji was meant for) – is the treat-yo’self-pick-me-up you’ll crave after eight crazy nights. Vahdam.com, $24; Subarzsweets.com, $45

Whiskey a Go Go

Lift holiday spirits (in handsome drinkware, like Baccarat’s Harmonie Double Old-Fashioned Tumblers) by offering party guests a sampling of your home bar’s top-shelf reserves, like Blade & Bow’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Glendalough Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Westward American Single Malt Stout Cask – a holy trinity all its own. ReserveBar.com, $48, $57, $91

Happy Hanukkah Tea Gift Set + Subarzsweets

Boarderie Charcuterie

A far cry from the shelf-stable meat-andcheese gifts mom loaded up on at your local mall’s pop-up shop, Oprah-approved Boarderie charcuterie boards are chef-made daily and feature hand-selected artisan cheeses, meats, dried fruits, nuts and chocolates on keepsake Acacia platters. Hickory Farms could never. Boarderie.com, $129-$239

NQi GTS E-Moped

In sport mode, the NQi GTS e-moped’s top speed is a hair-straightening 50 mph thanks to a 60V26Ah Bosch motor, 4th-gen lithium battery tech, and a few body-shop elves’ who’ve watched “2 Fast 2 Furious” 2 many times. Niu.com, $TBD

Cantilever Toolbox

Utilitarianism is a hallmark of Japanese design, and Toyo’s handcrafted cantilever steel storage and tools boxes are no exception with two handy adjustable upper trays and eight removable dividers housed in a handsome, spacious shell deserving of double takes. Placewares.com, $129

Dough Bowl Candles

Drop a needle on Aunt Dolly’s holiday vinyl before lighting the wicks on Stroud’s Simply Southern dough bowl candles and you’ve got yourself an instant country Christmas. StroudSimplySouthernCo.com, $24-$79

Nuzzie Weighted Blanket

Dasher and Dancer will have to pull double duty delivering hefty, chunky Nuzzies, oneof-a-kind breathable, thermoregulating and sustainable weighted blankets (in holiday hues like rich rose and the emeraldest green) for all your snowy season snuggles. ShopNuzzie.com, $169-$329

Coravin x Keith Haring Wine Opener

Art and wine go to together like Saint Nick and snickerdoodles, which is why the Coravin x Keith Haring Timeless Six+ Artist Edition bottle opener – featuring the late artist’s iconic dancing figures in black and white – will look just as good on your dinner-party tablescape as it will on display. Coravin.com, $350

FEATURE

Rotate Watchmaking Kit

Challenge your better-half gadget geek over holiday break with customizable Rotate watchmaking kits – available in easy, medium and hard configurations – that come complete with parts, tools, and a user-friendly guide to keep the cursing at a Christian minimum. RotateWatches.com, $195-$225

Habibi Santal Journey

Can’t go wrong with a fresh scent tucked under the tree or inside a stocking, and it doesn’t get any fresher (or spicier) than Habibi’s Santal Journey with notes of dry cedarwood, oud and sandalwood overtop whisps of crisp pear and precious orris. ForHabibi.com, $119

Wagged Tails Custom ‘A-paw-rel’

Memorialize your loved ones’ recently passed pets with Wagged Tails’ custom-printed apparel and accessories, including T-shirts, tumblers, totes and mugs, emblazoned with their favorite heaven-sent smush-faces. Keep the Kleenex close. WaggedTails.com, $18$67

Yves Durif Grooming Set

Yves Durif didn’t reinvent the Italian-made, natural rubber resin petite brush and comb that bears his synonymous-with-style name, but he did make these luxury tools sexy AF so you can feel like a million bucks. YvesDurif. com, $105

Limited

Drink Kit

Add a little Latin flavor to your living-room Christmas film fest with a screening of Alfredo De Villa’s “Nothing Like the Holidays” and a traditional coquito with a Don Q kick in hand. The limited-edish collab kit between the rum maker and Latina-owned Coquito NYC comes with everything you need to mix it up, including coconut milk, spices, and a bottle of Reserva 7. DonQ.com, $75

Edition Don Q Rum X Coquito NYC

PSP FOCUS

BROTHERS OF THE DESERT’S NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION AND FUNDRAISER

Join the Brothers of the Desert’s fourth annual New Year’s Eve celebration and fundraiser at Margaritaville Palm Springs. This year’s theme is Legacy, which will honor past and present individuals who have inspired and helped to move forward our Black LGBTQ+ community.

Tickets are $150 per person which includes a 3-course dinner with wine and a champagne toast at the stroke of midnight. The event will feature entertainment and dancing with renowned multitalented vocalist, Niki Harris and DJ and social influencer, DjLIV. www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-legacy-gala-featuringniki-haris-tickets-434393942977?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

GIMME GIMME DISCO NYE PARTY AT PRETTY FACES NIGHTCLUB

Calling all Dancing Queens! Here we go again! If you can’t get enough ABBA then do we have a dance party for you with a special NYE version playing all your favorite ABBA hits, plus plenty of other disco hits from the 70s & 80’s like The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, & Cher (DISCO ATTIRE ENCOURAGED). Plus, a free $500 Cash Balloon Drop and Champagne Toast to usher in the New Year! So, honey honey, take-a-chance and you’ll be dancing all night long. Grab tickets, bring your friends, and have the best night of your life! For VIP Bottle Service or more information, text (760) 333-3139. Ages 21+ www.gimmegimmedisco.com

DOCE UVAS: NEW YEAR’S EVE AT REFORMA PALM SPRINGS

Choose the decadent prix fixe dinner and celebrate until 2am

or buy a ticket to join the party starting at 9pm. The midnight hour features a Champagne toast. Three internationally known DJs work the dancefloor, while hostess, Ongina, oversees the festivities.

Prix fixe dinner is $125 per person, which includes your ticket to the party. Tables of two, four, six or eight are available. Additional seats can be added to tables. The cost for these will be added to your bill. There will be one seating. Arrive any time after 6pm, but please plan to finish dinner by 9pm so the party can start. Party tickets are $50 per person. Doors open at 9pm.

Reforma Palm Springs 333 South Palm Canyon Drive #Unit 2 Palm Springs, CA 92262 www.reformaps.com

JOE WHITAKER PRESENTS NYE 2022

Joe Whitaker & man Upp productions presents…

The hottest & biggest jock party in the country for all men goes to palm springs to end the year big! DILF “countdown” new year’s eve 2022 men’s jock/gear party!

Palm Springs Convention Center 277 N Avenida Caballeros Palm Springs, CA 92262

www.eventbrite.com/o/joe-whitaker-presents-6191320981

MAROON 5

Spend New Year’s Eve with Maroon 5 at the Brand New Acrisure Arena in Greater Palm Springs / Thousand Palms! Tickets on sale. Saturday, December 31, 2022. Time: 8:00 p.m. Ticket upgrades may be available (Floor Seats, Lower-Level Section).

www.tickets.palmsprings.com/tickets/5333895/maroon-5tickets-sat-dec-31-2022-acrisure-arena

NEW YEAR’S EVE BLOCK PARTY & FIREWORKS

Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs

Celebrate with your family at the Palm Springs Block Party with midnight fireworks to welcome the new year, iconic look-alikes, food trucks and booths, outdoor bar garden and live entertainment and dancing! DJ Lady Kate | 8 PM – 12:30 AM

Event Entry Only Tickets: $20 in Advance | $25 Day Of VIP Access Tickets: $85 in Advance | $100 Day Of Included in the VIP Access is Outdoor Lounge Area, complimentary lounge area and two (2) complimentary cocktail tickets. www.aguacalientecasinos.com

HUNTERS PALM SPRINGS

The best dance club in the desert is throwing a spectacular New Year’s Eve bash, no cover, Champagne bottle specials, free champagne toast and of course a balloon drop at midnight. www.huntersnightclubs.com

OSCAR’S CAFÉ AND BAR DRAG ME INTO 2023!

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with our favorite four drag queens! Drag superstar JACKIE BEAT has been entertaining audiences

across the U.S. and in Europe for over TWENTY-FIVE YEARS with her razor-sharp comedy and hysterical song parodies.

Sherry Vine has almost 30 years under her sequined belt, she has earned the title of Drag Legend. Sherry tours the world with her alllive singing, hilarious comedy shows. Heklina gained fame as the creator, promoter, and hostess of the legendary Trannyshack, now known as MOTHER. She is a premier drag hostess, in addition to Trannyshack, has enjoyed success with her outdoor party at El Rio (Daytime Realness). Billy L’Amour Serves as our backup host on Saturday’s when Jackie Beat or Sherry Vine are too busy traveling the world. Billy created his “Billy L’Amour character to be a Goddess of Love, playfulness, magic, and seduction. For Reservations visit. www.oscarspalmsprings.com

SAGUARO PALM SPRINGS

Join us for a thrilling 80’s themed New Year’s Eve party with live drag performances from Palm Springs legend Rusty Waters & Friends. Dance to live music from DJ Julie, toast complimentary champagne at midnight, and enjoy impeccable cocktails and bites all night long. Bundle your NYE tickets with a room and save up to $70.00 by booking a room using the special code NYE22. We can’t wait to ring in the new year with you. 21+ www.thesaguaro.com

PSP FOCUS

DBA 2022 HOLIDAY PARTY

Join us as we celebrate the Holiday Season at Wilma & Freida’s Palm Springs for Festive Holiday Fare & No Host Beverages Monday December 12th @ 5:30pm. Entertainment by Deven Green & Handsome Ned. Holiday Raffle, Silent Auction and much more. Tickets $65; get yours today at www.desertbusiness.org

PALM SPRINGS FRIENDS OF PHILHARMONIC TO BRING SAN

DIEGO

SYMPHONY TO THE McCALLUM THEATRE

The San Diego Symphony returns to the McCallum Theatre through the efforts of the Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic as part of their 2022-23 subscription series. Young Venezuelan conductor Domingo Hindoyan (pictured below), who is often compared to the other great Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, will lead the San Diego Symphony in its performance on Sunday, January 8, 2023, at 5:00 PM. Roberta Holland, Gloria and Michael Scoby and Douglas G. Stewart have generously supported this concert. For more information call 760-341-1013 or visit www.PSPhil.org

PALM SPRINGS GETAWAY THE MUSICAL’ AT PALM CANYON THEATRE

Palm Canyon Theatre (PCT) is bringing back its popular, original musical – Palm Springs Getaway. The production is a nostalgic romp through the popular oasis featuring glimpses of history, icons and the celebrities who made the city famous. With a collection of wellknown and original songs, the show transports audiences from the early desert landscape to the vibrant and inclusive community people know and love today – and every decade in between. Palm Springs Getaway is opening with a special Holiday Edition December 2-18. Then, ring in the New Year with a redeveloped 2023 Edition January 20-29. Show times are 7 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $38 for adults; $34 for seniors; $17 for students. For info visit www.palmcanyontheatre@gmail.com

It may not technically be a Christmas movie - but it is one this year, and it’s playing on the big screen at the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s Historic Camelot Theatre this holiday season! The popular film retrospective series, Palm Springs Rewinds, will close out the year with a collection of non-traditional Christmas movies that offer plenty of murder and mayhem to spice up your holidays. The series kicked off on November 30th with Batman Returns, starring Michael Keaton and Michelle Pfeiffer. The series will also screen the Eddie Murphy and Dan Akroyd comedy Trading Places, followed by the Steven Spielberg produced horror comedy GREMLINS, and close with the action classic that made Bruce Willis a star, Die Hard. “We love a classic Christmas movie as much as anyone, but we thought it would be fun to feature some of our unconventional favorites this year.” said Program Director Lauren Wolfer. “Each of these titles has an edge to it that can be especially welcome during the holiday season. Showtime is 8pm. For tickets visit https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/ps-rewinds-not-another-christmas-movie-1393519

PERSPECTIVE GAY CULTURE AND BEYOND

BY JILL LANGHAM

Hello and Happy Holiday Season! It seems that at times the universe really speaks and guides me in a different direction than the one I had in mind. Great example was my latest attempt to unite us all at Pride.

In my last article, I had encouraged many of you, the gay men of Palm Springs to show your colors at our Pride Parade. I suggested that those of us who lived here pre- COVID (March 2020) to wear red to the parade and those who moved here after March 2020 to wear orange. It seemed like a harmless, yet effective way to see who’s who.

It turned out that I ended up with an abscessed tooth and had to stay home on Pride Sunday. I could talk but was in so much pain and was so swollen that I stayed home and could neither dance on the PS Animal Shelter float, wear red, or see who was wearing orange. Ironically, the Standard Magazine where my column appears monthly, and typically comes out the first few days of the month came out the Monday following Pride which meant that my article was not read until after the parade making the request, moot.

I was very disappointed to say the least, but at the same time believe that there are no accidents, but I wanted to understand why.

I wondered if my message was clear or that it was somehow being mis-interpreted or misunderstood. As a channel, I receive information that I am incredibly passionate about. I did not know that I was going to be a spokesperson for the Gay community or Gay Culture, but I am and it’s important to me that this information be properly understood and issued.

I’m getting feedback from people in the community who think that I am not speaking on behalf of unification of the LGBTQIA community and instead are encouraging division. I’d like to take a moment to explain my thought processes.

I think about life in terms of the body. We have 78 organs in our body all of which must work together for life to exist. The pancreas is not the liver, the liver is not the kidneys, etc.., etc. Using that model, I think of the word Gay as a stand-alone entity, as a matter of fact I think of it as the culture created by Gay men and Lesbian as the culture created by lesbian women, etc.

What do I mean by Gay culture?

Looking at the definition of the word culture from the online dictionary we find this description:

The customs, arts, social institutions and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group. We have Black culture, Indian culture, French culture, Spanish culture, White culture and so many more including Gay culture. But Gay culture is not Lesbian culture, nor Transgender, Bi or any of the newer additions, all of which are unique. In the body, the digestive tract alone consists of 10 organs but each one has its own set of rules, processes, and functions.

In looking over the last 53 years since Stonewall, the Gay community has finally begun to be recognized for its unity as a culture by some but with no thanks to Hollywood. The film industry got on board early and created many roles of gay men that rarely addressed gay as being anything other than madcap and ultra-feminine or were at best, insulting. And how coincidental and unfortunate as so much of Hollywood is made up of gayer, lesbian, etc., people than possibly any other organization of the same size!

(And no, I cannot show you numbers because even in today’s socalled open and out world there are stars, producers, extra’s, etc., still in the closet, but we know the truth, we know the people).

So, when I think of Gay, I think of the men who have been brave enough to take a stand for their rights, their beliefs, their unique talents, their arts, their social institutions and their achievements and I believe should be honored for creating their own Culture!

And ask yourself this, the “Don’t say Gay” campaign doesn’t say, “Don’t say LGBTQIA,” does it? Nor is our local radio station called K-LGBTQIA, so I think there is still a lot of question/controversy/conflict about this issue starting with our government and trickling down to our once very GAY town.

That is why I wanted to have gay men wear their colors on Pride Sunday. Do you think that Palm Springs is supporting the Gay community? Does it seem to you that perhaps they are more interested in having big money come into town at the expense of all of you who have lived here for decades and made the town and the businesses what they are today? Should we take a poll?

My last thought is concerning the traffic lights which the city has spent exorbitant fees on in an attempt to control the flow of traffic. I will start with a compliment. The lights and the left-turn arrow signals are very well timed at night making travel time fast and efficient. But during daylight hours is frightening!

In the 17 years that I have lived here, I have seen something daily that has really freaked me out. It’s the number of people who run through red lights, and I am not talking amber to red, but instead red for many seconds!

Over the last month I am seeing this occur at almost every light I have the fortune/misfortune of missing. (I stop for amber lights as a rule) I pray that I am wrong when I say that I believe we will be seeing a hefty increase in accidents and fatalities over the next year. In my opinion, the choice of streets where left green arrow turn signals have been installed was not well thought through. And the length of the lights is way too long making people frustrated, impulsive, and dangerous.

We are not Los Angeles or Riverside. We were Palm Springs and used to have our own unique personality. I’m seeing it all fade away. Our soul, like music on the dance floor is slipping away and soon we will be just like any other city in the Inland Empire. That makes me very sad.

Stay well, stop for amber lights, don’t risk yours or others’ lives to get there 5 seconds faster and know I have our best interests in mind.

XOXO

Jill, Your traffic minded, Dancing Queen, wearing Red! Disclaimer

The opinions expressed in this column are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of The Standard Magazine or its members.

TRAVEL RING IN THE NEW YEAR IN MIAMI

BY JOHN STEIN

Dreamland, the immersive LGBTQ+ art, music, and wellness festival, returns to Miami Beach this New Year’s Weekend. Presented by Jake Resnicow, Dreamland will run from December 29 - Jan 2 at some of Miami’s best venues – including the Oasis and the newly renovated M2 Nightclub – and will feature musical performances by Purple Disco Machine and Sofi Tukker. “We’re going to ignite your senses and imagination,” says event producer Jake Resnicow. Joining in the festivities will be some of the biggest DJ talent from around the world including Horse Meat Disco, Coco & Breezy, J Worra and more.

Dreamland, being called “Queer Coachella”, will be a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and be catalysts for inspiration to drive positive change in the world as thousands of LGBTQ+ people and their allies are expected to travel to Miami for the 4 Day - 5 Party event. General admission 5-Party weekend passes start at $299.

The weekend’s main event, Dreamland New Year’s Eve, takes place Saturday, December 31, when LP Giobbi performs at M2 nightclub, along with DJs Danny Verde, Isaac Escalante, and Matt Denton.

For the first party of 2023, Horse Meat Disco joins Grammynominated Purple Disco Machine for an all-day marathon event at The Oasis Wynwood.

Throughout the inspiring multi-day experience, Dreamland offers complimentary wellness programs, local and international gastronomic gatherings, visual art installations, large-scale art pieces, interactive exhibitions, and much more.

Celebrations begin Thursday, Dec 29 at 8pm at the open-air Oasis when Grammy-Nominated Sofi Tukker performs, along with J Worra and Coco & Breezy at the Neon Dreams party.

A part of the proceeds from Dreamland will benefit the Theresa Velasquez Memorial Scholarship program at Femme House, a nonprofit organization that fosters opportunities for women and genderexpansive individuals in the technical and behind the scenes areas of music. DJ Theresa was a rising circuit DJ until her life was tragically taken away in Miami’s Surfside building collapse. She was 36 years old.

“Theresa’s undeniable talent for music helped lift people’s spirits, and her DJ sets brought joy to everyone’s hearts,” Jake Resnicow reflects. “We pledge to continue her legacy by providing opportunities to aspiring LGBTQIA+ artists.”

The current fellows of the Theresa Velasquez Memorial Scholarship program are GeeXella (they/them) and SEVYN. GeeXella is an Atlanta-based Black/Latinx, Non-binary and Queer multidisciplinary artist who founded Duval Folx, a dance party that brings awareness to the violence Queer/Trans and BIPOC communities face in the South. SEVYN is a Washington DC-born, LA based DJ and host of the “FLUID” show on dublab Radio.

Tickets for all events are available now at www.Dreamlandnye.com

TRAVEL RING IN THE NEW YEAR IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

BY JOHN STEIN

Daywash Ushers in the New Year with a Bang Presenting Three Spectacular LGBTQ Events.

Daywash Events is inviting gay men from around the world to ring in 2023 in Sydney, Australia with three massive events, Candyland, Pound Party, and the KiKi Pool Party featuring live acts, stunning décor and laser and light shows, and performances by some of the world’s most famous international circuit DJs. “Daywash parties are always over-the-top but we’re pulling out all the stops to make sure we start this new year off with a bang,” says Daywash NYD23 producer Johan Khoury.

The Daywash NYD23 weekend events kicks off Sunday, January 1 with the Candyland Circuit Summer Party, a signature Daywash event. The epic day party favorite will take place at The Argyle in Sydney, a colossal venue with multiple indoor and outdoor rooms that will all be transformed into a world of sweet seduction. The theme for this year’s party is “summertime”. Guests are encouraged to attend in their skimpiest outfits and costumes. All stages will be summer-time themed, pumping classic anthems, super-fly tunes and thumpin’ dance tracks. There will also be large-scale shows and surprise guests.

The New Year celebrations continue with Pound Party, taking place New Year’s night at Sydney Sauna. Pound is another signature Daywash event that brings together a super friendly party with a sexy, erotic vibe where jocks, daddies, bears and all types of men cruise the floors of Sydney Sauna in footy shorts, speedos, jocks, leather, or nothing at all. Live DJs work the decks well into the wee hours of the morning.

The epic weekend wraps on Monday, January 2, with the Kiki Pool Party, taking place at the glamorous Ivy pool. Set high above the bustling streets with the gorgeous Sydney skyline as backdrop, the pool party will be perfect way to wind down the New Year festivities. Surprise pop-up DJs and performers will be announced soon. VIP Cabanas, bottle service, and added special luxury addons are available.

Daywash launched in 2004 in a small Sydney city night club called Chinese Laundry. Through the years, it has grown to become Sydney’s largest gay circuit event, attracting thousands of gorgeous gay men from around the world during Sydney’s biggest party

holidays including Mardi Gras and New Year’s. Daywash will hold their Pride Amplified 2023 party during Sydney’s World Pride.

Sydney is well connected with the USA with direct flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco.

While in Sydney for the Daywash NYD23 events, travelers are encouraged to experience Sydney’s many landmark attractions. The Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House are must-sees and who can resist the kangaroos, the crocs and getting a hug from a koala bear?

“Chronological world order places Sydney as one of the first locations to ring in the new year countdown so once again, it is up to us to show the world how to get the 2023 party started,” says Johan Khoury.

A portion of the proceeds from all Daywash events benefit programs including ACON (Aids Council Of NSW), Olivia NewtonJohn Cancer Wellness Program, and Father Riley’s Youth off the streets.

Tickets for Daywash NYD23 are available now at daywash.com.au

JOSS STONE FIRST-EVER HOLIDAY ALBUM ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS, LOVE’ OUT NOW

BY MARTHA TANG

Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Joss Stone’s new whimsical visual for her rendition of the spirited Stevie Wonder classic “What Christmas Means To Me” is out now. The video comes ahead of the singer’s busy Holiday season as she gears up to promote her debut Christmas album Merry Christmas, Love which was released in September via S-Curve/Hollywood Records. The album is available on all streaming platforms and CD. Vinyl is available now. Directed by Bill Fishman (Decemberists, Counting Crows) and Seth Christian, the video for “What Christmas Means To Me” finds Joss adorned in dazzling holiday regalia and cheer, performing at the hippest holiday party in town. Brimming with the joy of family, Joss was pregnant at the time of filming and her infant daughter Violet was on set. Now the mother of two, Joss has more to celebrate this holiday season than ever before.

Inspired by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby and Michael Buble, Merry Christmas, Love celebrates the holiday season with fifteen classic Christmas tracks including favorites such as “Let It Snow”, “Jingle Bells”, “Silent Night” and more, plus two new original songs written by Joss, “If You Believe” and “Bring On Christmas Day” - a track celebrating her lifetime love for the joyful holiday.

Merry Christmas, Love represents a lifelong love of Christmas music, and a quest to present the music in a timeless but authentic way. “It was ambitious to do this, but it was such a joy to make my dream project come true,” Joss enthuses.

Nearly two decades ago, Joss exploded on the music scene with her platinum-selling, breakout debut The Soul Sessions (also on S-Curve). Since then, she has won a Grammy (plus four additional nominations), released two platinum-certified albums, collaborated with everyone from Mick Jagger and Smokey Robinson to Raphael

Saadiq and The Roots, and many more. Joss recently won The Masked Singer UK in 2021 and celebrated the ten-year anniversary for Soul Sessions Vol. 2 this past July.

Armed with a powerful voice and a sound based in vintage soul, Joss Stone hit the mainstream as a teenager and has enjoyed an enduring career of unpredictable twists and turns. The Grammy and Brit award winning singer, who has sold over 12 million albums worldwide, first earned a devoted audience at home and abroad with reinterpretations of classic soul songs and has expanded it with her songwriting chops and ability to explore styles far afield of vintage R&B, her first love.

Over the past decade, Joss has continued to build an impressive global audience through her touring while also continuing the great work done by The Joss Stone Foundation, which she started in 2014 and supports various charities across the world for people in need.

Follow Joss Stone: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube Spotify | Apple Music

MUSIC

daddi ru SPEAKS OF AN UNRECIPROCATED LOVE IN “THIRSTY”

Following a successful release of their first two singles, nonbinary indie pop artist daddi ru (they/them) returns to the spotlight with “THIRSTY”. The song touches upon the artist’s past of chasing lovers who don’t want them back. “THIRSTY” is currently available on all streaming platforms worldwide.

Pulling inspiration from personal experiences, daddi ru is not afraid to express their raw emotion and lack of success in many relationships. After “My Parasite”, their debut single where daddi ru desperately begs their partner to leave them alone and go and use someone else, daddi ru is back with a tale of the opposite side of the relationship - that of chasing someone who doesn’t want them back. Their raw and brutally honest lyricism, and double entendre on the term “thirst”, both for someone, and that of physical desire, is further enforced by their raspy voice as the track progresses and builds.

The queer pop-riser shared their goals for the song and their audience, “Having low self-worth, I have had trouble seeing my value to others which has resulted in me chasing shitty people who don’t care about me”, they explain “Sometimes the rejection can make your desire for someone even stronger, intoxicating, to the point it’s a disturbance to your life. Been there, done that, don’t want it again.”

From playing singing games with their father, to taking random improvisational singing opportunities throughout New York City, the indie pop artist-on-the-rise is no stranger to music. After their first release launching them into the music industry, daddi ru has displayed that they possess the talent to make a big name for themselves. They found an alternative passion in filmmaking, creating works featured in film festivals worldwide and receiving rave reviews from the likes of Dazed Magazine and GLAAD. Their debut single “My Parasite,” feat. Grandmaster Caz was touted by PRIDE, The Standard Magazine and The Word Is Bond. Staying true to their goals, daddi ru uses their various art forms to shine a light on serious conversations and express honest emotions.

“THIRSTY” is a track that possesses the potential to resonate and be relatable with the hearts of a wide audience. For those with their own relationship struggles, especially those that are one-sided, daddi ru’s powerful tone and honest lyrics can make them feel heard and seen. Be sure to stream “THIRSTY” and follow daddi ru’s musical journey on Instagram at @daddiiruu.

the3D’s DINE | DRINK | DANCE

RESTAURANTS

GRAND CENTRAL

160 La Plaza

Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.699.7185 www.grandcentralpalmsprings.com

KOFFI NORTH (3 Additional Locations) 515 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.416.2244 www.kofficoffee.com

BOOZEHOUNDS PALM SPRINGS

2080 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.656.0067 www.boozehoundsps.com

1501 UPTOWN 1501 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.1501 www.1501uptown.com

TAC/QUILA

415 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.417.4471 www.tacquila.com

PS AIR BAR

611 S.Palm Canyon Dr. #22 Palm Springs CA 92262 760.327.7701 www.psairbar.com

TOWNIE BAGELS

650 E Sunny Dunes Rd #5 Palm Springs, CA 92264 760.459.4555 www.towniebagels.com

ON THE MARK

111 N Palm Canyon Dr. #155 Palm Springs CA 92262 760.832.8892 www.onthemarkpalmsprings.com

SHERMAN’S DELI & BAKERY 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.1199 www.shermansdeli.com 849 849 N Palm Canyon Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.8490 www.eight4nine.com

THAI SMILE PALM SPRINGS 100 South Indian Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.5503 www.thaismilepalmsprings.com

TRIO RESTAURANT 707 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.864.8746 www.triopalmsprings.com

THE TROPICALE 330 E Amado Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.866.1952 www.thetropicale.com

ZIN AMERICAN BISTRO 198 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 760.322.6300 www.pszin.com

LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO 200 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.5858 www.lulupalmsprings.com

EL MIRASOL

140 E Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.323.0721 www.elmirasolrestaurants.com

RICK’S RESTAURANT

1973 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.416.0090 www.ricksrestaurant.biz

PINOCCHIO IN THE DESERT 134 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.322.3776 www.pinocchiops.com

BLACKBOOK BAR

315 E Arenas Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.832.8497 www.blackbookbar.com

BARS AND NIGHT CLUBS

HUNTERS NIGHTCLUB

302 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.323.0700 www.huntersnightclubs.com

TOUCAN’S TIKI LOUNGE 2100 North Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.416.7584 www.toucanstikilounge.com

CHILL BAR

217 E. Arenas Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.1079 www.chillbarpalmsprings.com

STREETBAR

224 E. Arenas Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.1266 www.psstreetbar.com

THE TOOL SHED

600 E. Sunny Dunes Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.3299 www.toolshed-ps.com

QUADZ

200 S Indian Canyon Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.778.4326

AMP SPORTS LOUNGE 68-718 E. Palm Canyon Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234 760.699.7090 www.ampcatcity.com

ROOST BAR LOUNGE 68718 E Palm Canyon Dr #203 Cathedral City CA 92234 760.507.8495 www.theroostcc.com

ONE ELEVEN BAR 67555 E Palm Canyon Dr A103 Cathedral City, CA 92234 760.537.3111 www.oneelevenbar.com

BARRACKS BAR 67625 E Palm Canyon Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234 760.464.0957 www.barracksps.com

RUNWAY 68300 Gay Resort Dr Cathedral City, CA 92234 760.537.7800 www.runwayccbc.com

REFORMA

333 S. Palm Canyon #2 Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.902.6630 www.reformaps.com

DICK’S

301 E Arenas Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.0753 www.dicksps.com

For advertising inquiries please contact Nino@thestandardps.com

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PHOTO REWIND

DAP HEALTH PARTNERS FOR LIFE PHOTOS COURTESY

OF DAVID A LEE

PHOTO REWIND

DAP HEALTH PARTNERS FOR LIFE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A LEE

PHOTO REWIND

HRC GARDEN PARTY PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A LEE

PHOTO REWIND

HRC GARDEN PARTY PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A LEE

PHOTO REWIND

PALM SPRINGS PRIDE PHOTOS COURTESY OF

DAVID A LEE

PHOTO REWIND

PALM SPRINGS PRIDE PHOTOS COURTESY OF

DAVID A LEE

PHOTO REWIND

PALM SPRINGS PRIDE PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE STANDARD MAGAZINE STAFF

A healthier planet begins in your closet.