TheStandard_Vol12_Issue10 by The Standard Magazine

•We are the owners and the managers making it easy for you

•We’re for guests who are looking for elegance, privacy, and peace & quiet

•We offer all the little extras that make a vacation home special

•All homes are pet-friendly, Non-smoking, WiFi enabled and have Smart TVs

The men’s health services you want, where you want them.

When it comes to high quality health care, Eisenhower is here for you — now with six great health clinics in the Palm Springs area, and an enhanced focus on services that meet the unique health needs of men.

• Primary Care and Eisenhower 365

• HIV Care

• Eisenhower Desert Orthopedic Center

• Imaging and Lab Services

• Urgent Care

• Psychology

• Psychiatry

• Dermatology

• Medical Specialties (Available at South Palm Canyon)

~ Eisenhower Desert Cardiology Center

~ Gastroenterology

~ Infusion

~ Neurology Oncology

~ Pain Management

Learn more at PSHealth.EisenhowerHealth.org or call 760-773-1460.

Eisenhower Health Center at Sunrise

151 S. Sunrise Way

Eisenhower Health Center at Rimrock

4791 E. Palm Canyon Drive

Eisenhower Brimble and Jones Health Center

1555-C S. Palm Canyon Drive

Eisenhower Health Center at South Palm Canyon

415 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Eisenhower Primary Care at North Palm Canyon

1401 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 202

Eisenhower Dermatology Center

1080 N. Indian Canyon, Suite 200

COMMENTARY

PHOTOGRAPHER

David A. Lee

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeff Dorta, Tom Tietjen, Daniel Vaillancourt, Robin Gray, Martha Tang, Joe Amaury, Jacquelyn James, Trevor Garrison, Stacy Holmes, Greg Stillwell, Dann Foley, Jill Langham & Terri Schlichenmeyer www.thestandardps.com

EDITORIAL CREDITS : BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation, Project Publicity, MSN, Reuters, NBC News, Artsy, Forbes, Time.com, xtramagazine, ITV, & Psychology Today

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.

The Palm Springs Pride Festival will take place downtown on Palm Canyon Drive and in the Arenas District from October 31 to November 3, 2024. The annual Pride Parade starts at 10:00 A.M. in Uptown at Palm Canyon Drive and Tachevah.

The annual Pride celebration promotes unity, diversity, and equality. Pride in Palm Springs is a celebration where you can be yourself and be true to who you are. The 2024 Pride Week theme is ‘Be You,’ which embraces the power of self-expression, inclusiveness, and love. The theme reinforces the city’s reputation of cherishing the value and dignity of all people.

Sister Sledge, the legendary disco group, will headline the Palm Springs Pride Festival and deliver their iconic hits that have captivated audiences for decades. The free performance is presented by Visit Lauderdale and is scheduled for the main stage on Palm Canyon Drive, Saturday November 2 at 8:00 P.M.

With hits including “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” “Lost in Music,” and their worldwide anthem and expression of togetherness; “We

Are Family,” Sister Sledge featuring Sledgendary® will join the festival lineup with Neon Trees, George Michael Reborn tribute act, Brian Justin Crum, Pretty Poison featuring Jade Starling and more.

The annual Pride celebration promotes unity, diversity, and equality. Ron deHarte, Palm Springs Pride President and CEO said, “Pride in Palm Springs is a celebration where you can be yourself and be true to who you are. The 2024 Pride Week theme is ‘Be You,’ which embraces the power of self-expression, inclusiveness, and love.” He added, “The theme reinforces the city’s reputation of cherishing the value and dignity of all people.”

“Being the Diamond sponsor of Palm Springs Pride and sponsoring the headliner, Sister Sledge, signifies Visit Lauderdale’s strong commitment to supporting the LGBT+ community and promoting inclusivity. As a Diamond sponsor, Visit Lauderdale not only contributes significant financial support but also gains visibility and recognition as a leader in advocacy for inclusion, equality and acceptance”, said Richard Gray, Senior Vice President of Inclusion & Accessibility for Visit Lauderdale.

NEON TREES

GEORGE MICHAEL REBORN TRIBUTE

BRIAN JUSTIN CRUM

JADE STARLING

COVER

THE FESTIVAL WILL FEATURE A DIVERSE LINEUP OF PERFORMERS, INCLUDING:

A Big Bang Blast-Off with DJ Modgirl: DJ Modgirl brings her cosmic experience and electrifying performance to the Palm Canyon Main Stage at 8 P.M. on Friday, November 1, presented by KGAY 106.5 /92.1 and Gay Desert Guide

Jesika Von Rabbit: a musical whirlwind of technicolor and twisted genius, will return to the Palm Springs Pride Main Stage with a psychedelic explosion of candy-coated madness — a blend of intelligent lyricism, pop sensibilities, and a touch of the absurd.

Appearing Saturday, November 2 at 7 P.M.

THE FESTIVAL STAGES WILL FEATURE A VARIETY OF PERFORMERS, INCLUDING:

ARENAS STAGE

Thursday, October 31

Neon Trees - 8:00 P.M.*

Friday, November 1

DESERT AIR FESTIVAL TAKEOVER, PRESENTED BY SPLASH HOUSE AND GOLDENVOICE

Saturday, November 2

Fire Island Pines x Utramaroon Takeover

Scott Martin

Lupe Fuentes

AARON ELVIS

EX WIVES CLUB VANITY HALSTON

DJ ERIC ORNELAS

JESIKA VON RABBIT

MODGIRL

Someone from Berlin

Fire Island Pines x WeHo Takeover:

Aaron Elvis*

Matthew Pernicano

Sunday, November 3

KGAY 106.5/92.1 & Gay Desert Guide Takeover

DJ Eric Ornelas*

DJ Galaxy*

DJ Modgirl*

PALM CANYON DRIVE MAIN STAGE

Friday, November 1

Servicemember Wreath Laying Ceremony

Vanity Halston Presents - The Ex-Wives Club: A Drag parody tribute of Six the Musical*

A Big Bang Blast-Off With Modgirl, presented by KGAY 106.5 /92.1 and Gay Desert Guide.*

Saturday, November 2

Stage DJ - KGAY 106.5 / 92.1 Presents DJ Galaxy

The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus*

Angelique VaGorgeous

Keisha D

Steven Michael’s Dance Machine*

Z LaLa

Jackette Knightley

Jesika Von Rabbit*

CORDAY

GAY MENS CHORUS

JACKETTE KNIGHTLEY

AURELIO SANCHEZ

DJ GALAXY

COVER

SISTER SLEDGE – 8:00 P.M.*

Sunday, November 3

Corday*

Marisa Corvo

Steven Michael’s Dance Machine*

George Michael Reborn*

PRIDE DJ STAGE: TAHQUITZ AND PALM CANYON DR

DJ Jonnie Star

DJ Zareen

DJ Aaron C

For Full lineup check www.pspride.org

OSCAR’S STAGE: TAHQUITZ AND INDIAN CANYON RD

Saturday, November 2

Bitchiest Brunch (Drag Brunch) with Anita Rose

Nickerson-Rossi Dance Company

Play Lounge Biscuit Eating Contest

Dina Jacobs

Aurelio Sånchez - Mariah Carey Impersonator*

April Diamond*

Charlie Brown

Brian Justin Crum *

Sunday, November 3

Bitchiest Brunch (Drag Brunch) with Anita Rose

Pretty Poison featuring Jade Starling*

Desert Flaggers - Oscar’s Tea Dance Kick Off

Palm Springs Pride is free and accessible to all thanks to the support of presenting sponsor City of Palm Springs, Diamond

sponsor Visit Lauderdale, and Associate sponsors P.S. Resorts, La Crema, Nutrl, Coachella Valley Firebirds, and Absolut.

Rainbow sponsors include New Orleans Welcomes All, The LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert, Volvo Cars Palm Springs, Alaska Airlines, US Bank, Oscar’s, Viiv Healthcare, Nissan, Hornitos, Lulu California Bistro, Optum, and DAP Health.

Lambda sponsors include The Rowan Palm Springs, Roadrunner Print and Ship, Ace Hotel, Hyatt Palm Springs, California Teachers Association, Margaritaville Resort, Inland Empire Health Plan, Saguaro Palm Springs, Gilead, Desert Regional Medical Center, and Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey.

Community sponsors include Rick’s Restaurant, Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge, Trio, 7-11, Southern California Edison, Chase, Walmart, Grit Development, Blackbook Bar, Hunters Nightclubs, Club Sirocco, Streetbar, La Cocina Reforma, Palm Springs Disposal Service, Palm Springs International Airport, Kaiser Permanente, Desert Business Association, Mike Thompson RV Super Stores, CCBC, Starbucks, Pepsi, Barbara Barrett Attorney, Palm Springs Front Runners & Walkers, Albertsons.

Media sponsors are The Standard Magazine, Gay Desert Guide, KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM and MeTV 103.1 FM, Desert Daily Guide, Coachella Valley Independent, Promohomo.tv, GED Magazine, The Fight, Rage Monthly, Homoculture.com, The Palm Springs Post, Pride Media, and Edge Media Network.

For more information, please visit pspride.org.

APRIL DIAMOND

AARON ALLEN MARNER NAMED GRAND MARSHAL OF THE 2024 PS PRIDE PARADE

Greater Palm Springs Pride announced that artist Aaron Allen Marner, known for his vibrant and thought-provoking artwork, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2024 Pride Parade. Marner is recognized for his advocacy for social justice and contributions to the arts community.

A Phoenix native who now calls Palm Springs home, Marner has captivated audiences with his unique blend of portraiture, figurative painting, and collage. His work often explores themes of social justice, mental health, racial inequality, and HIV prevention while also celebrating the beauty of the human form and the power of nature.

“I am deeply honored to be named Grand Marshal of the Palm Springs Pride Parade,” said Marner. “Pride is a celebration of love, diversity, and equality, and I am proud to be a part of such an important event. I hope my artwork can inspire others to embrace their true selves and to fight for a more just and equitable world.”

Aaron Allen Marner is a visual artist based in Palm Springs, California. His vibrant and expressive style explores themes of social justice, identity, and the human condition. Marner’s art has been exhibited in galleries and museums across the country, and he is a sought-after public artist.

Marner’s work has been exhibited in galleries across the country, and he has gained recognition for his large-scale murals and public art installations. His commitment to using his art as a platform for social change aligns perfectly with the mission of Greater Palm Springs Pride.

“Aaron Allen Marner is a true artist and a powerful voice in our community,” said Ron deHarte, President and CEO of Greater Palm Springs Pride. “His work inspires and challenges us, and we are excited to honor him as our Grand Marshal.”

The 2024 Greater Palm Springs Pride Parade will take place on November 3 and is expected to draw thousands of spectators along Palm Canyon Dr. In addition to the parade. The Pride celebration will feature various events and activities from October 31 to November 3, 2024. Palm Springs Pride is free and accessible to all in part to the support of presenting sponsor City of Palm Springs, diamond sponsor Visit Lauderdale, and associate sponsors

P.S. Resorts, La Crema, Nutrl, Coachella Valley Firebirds, and Absolut. Rainbow sponsors include New Orleans Welcomes All, The LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert, Volvo Cars Palm Springs, Alaska Airlines, US Bank, Oscar’s, Viiv Healthcare, Nissan, Hornitos, and DAP Health. Lambda sponsors include The Rowan Palm Springs, Roadrunner Print and Ship, Ace Hotel, Hyatt Palm Springs, California Teachers Association, Margaritaville Resort, Inland Empire Health Plan, Saguaro Palm Springs, and Optum. Gilead, Desert Regional Medical Center, and Skrewball. Community sponsors include Rick’s Restaurant, Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge, Trio, 7-11, Southern California Edison, Chase, Walmart, Grit Development, Blackbook, Hunters Nightclubs, Dick’s, Streetbar, Chill Bar, Palm Springs Disposal Service, Palm Springs International Airport, Kaiser Permanente, Desert Business Association, Mike Thompson RV Super Stores, and Palm Springs Front Runners & Walkers.

Media sponsors are The Standard Magazine, Gay Desert Guide, KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM and MeTV 103.1 FM, Desert Daily Guide, Coachella Valley Independent, Promohomo.tv, GED Magazine, The Fight, Rage Monthly, LGBTQ San Diego County News, Homoculture.com, and Edge Media Network.

For more information about Greater Palm Springs Pride, visit www.pspride.org. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ palmsprings.pride.

COVER GET READY TO RUN FOR PRIDE:

JOIN US FOR THE PALM SPRINGS PRIDE 5K RUN & WALK!

Join runners and walkers of all ages and abilities for a scenic course that supports fantastic causes. The Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk raises crucial funds for local LGBTQ+ organizations, promoting physical health and community well-being.

This year’s event will raise funds for:

• LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert: Providing a safe space for wellness, education, and social programs.

• Safe Schools Desert Cities: Empowering LGBTQ youth, fostering a strong sense of belonging and opportunities for growth and education.

• The Marsha P. Johnson LGBTQ+ Youth Drop-in Center: Offering crisis intervention, therapy, and mentorship, ensuring transgender, genderqueer, and intersex youth receive essential support.

• College of the Desert’s Gender and Social Diversity Pride Center: Supporting LGBTQIA+ student success.

The Palm Springs Front Runners & Walkers, a local chapter of International Frontrunners, is dedicated to uplifting the diverse LGBTQ+ community.

In 2023, we proudly donated over $30,000 to the LGBTQ Center of the Desert and the Transgender Health and Wellness Center. Since 2016, we have raised over $200,000 for vital LGBTQIA+ organizations, including Brothers of the Desert and Greater Palm Springs Pride.

Race Day Details:

• Start at 8 a.m. in Downtown Palm Springs, at the corner of N. Belardo Road and West Chino Drive.

• The beautiful, paved course winds through the historic Old Las Palmas neighborhood.

• Awards for the top 3 finishers in Male, Female, and Non-Binary categories, plus the top three in 5-year age brackets. Every participant will receive a finisher medal.

• Registration & Packet Pickup:

• Online: $40 for adults through October 30 ($25 for youth under 18).

• In-person: $40 (no shirt included) on November 1.

For more information, visit PalmSpringsPrideRun.com.

Note: Registration will not be available on race day, so please register in advance! All online registrants receive a t-shirt with their race packet, but this is guaranteed only for pre-registrants.

IF YOU GO:

What: The Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk—a vibrant celebration of community, inclusivity, and athleticism!

When: Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. Where: Start at West Chino Drive and Belardo Road in Palm Springs. Course: Experience a stunning, mostly flat out-and-back course through the historic Old Las Palmas neighborhood, once home to Hollywood’s elite. This 3.1-mile adventure is your chance to shine!

Join us in this celebration of pride and inclusivity!

For more information, visit PalmSpringsPrideRun.com.

FEATURE DEATH BECOMES HIM

BY DANIEL VAILLANCOURT

Veteran thespian David Dean Bottrell makes his Palm Springs debut with his award-winning one-man show “The Death of Me Yet.” You’ll laugh … until you cry.

David Dean Bottrell — the out, Kentucky-born character actor of a certain age who spent 23 years in Hollywood and the last seven in New York City playing indelible roles in TV classics like “Modern Family,” “Mad Men,” “True Blood,” “Boston Legal,” the “Frasier” reboot, “Law & Order,” and many more — storms the stage solo to talk about his and our mortality.

But make no mistake. This is no morbid, sad affair. Bottrell’s already performed “Death” to rave reviews in New York City, Los Angeles, Sag Harbor, Nantucket, and Portland, Maine. He’ll soon take it to Seattle and Puerto Vallarta. It won the 2024 Los Angeles Stage Scene Award for Best Solo Show, and was named one of the10 best Off-Off Broadway shows of 2023 by New York City’s Theatre Scene. It’s hilarious, moving, and ultimately, thought-provoking.

And now, Palm Springs audiences are about to see Bottrell live and in person when he brings “The Death of Me Yet” to Revolution Stage Company on Sunday, October 13, at 2:00 p.m. I sat down with Bottrell to chat about the desert, his latest hit, and why he’s so excited to unveil it for us.

How did you come to create “The Death of Me Yet”?

In 2018, I went through a medical crisis. It was very mysterious because nobody could tell me what was wrong with me. I was going from doctor to doctor to doctor, and nobody had a clue. I was pretty sure I was going to die from this thing because the symptoms were very terrifying. It lasted about 13 months. A couple of people knew about it, but mostly I didn’t talk about it because there was nothing to say. There was no diagnosis. It was just my own little private time to sort of prepare myself for what was going to be the premature end of my life. But … spoiler alert … I survived! Then COVID-19 happened, and New York City got hit very

badly. It was terrifying. We’re talking refrigerator trucks full of bodies parked in the street. Mortality became a very real thing for everybody. And so again, I thought, “I’m going to die!” It was a time of reflection. So those two things together made me sit down to write this show.

You’re not a stand-up comedian. You’re a stage, film, and TV actor. So, what can the audience expect?

Like my other two one-man shows [“David Dean Bottrell Makes Love” and “Dear Mr. Bottrell: I Cannot Possibly Accept This”], this one is based on my life. Over the course of about 75 or 80 minutes, I tell five true stories that are interwoven, and essentially, by the end, become one story.

Despite the title and the subject matter, it’s really very lifeaffirming, very positive. It really has to do with the gift we have right now, which is to be alive and to not waste it. Because I am who I am, I tend to filter even life’s most horrific experiences through humor. That’s how I process everything. So, the show is extremely funny … except when it isn’t.

And then?

It’s very moving.

Why did you want to bring “Death” to the desert?

During my more than two decades in L.A., I got to Palm Springs from time to time, and I always had a great time. I’m an openly gay man. The show is not about being gay, but that is certainly part of the truth that is spoken from the stage in any show I do. I kept thinking, “I know a lot of people out there — both my age and younger — who are starting to realize, ‘Oh, wow! The clock’s ticking!’” I just know in my bones that this is a show a desert audience will appreciate and enjoy. I’m very excited.

To be clear, this show is for everyone, not just the queer crowd. Yes! Bring anybody you know. I always say, you can take your grandmother to see my shows, as long as she watches HBO.

How does it feel to be all alone on that stage after having performed most of your life in a cast?

Scary! This is the single most terrifying thing I’ve ever done in my career. I’m really sticking my neck out. I don’t have a scene partner. The audience is my partner at every performance. And it’s always different. I love interacting with the crowd. What I’ve experienced is that sometimes people are a little uneasy when they first see me up there talking about difficult subjects.

I’m pretty frank, but I also try my very best to be funny. And then, I slowly but surely see people relax. And laugh. The more truthful I am, the harder they laugh! I don’t have a single joke in the show. They laugh because I’ve said something that strikes them as being undeniably, honestly true.

What do you hope your new biggest fans walk away with?

My journey in life has reminded me to stay present as much as I possibly can. I want people to remember to do that, too, because really, the only way you can experience happiness is in the present. Life does not last forever. I’m a big believer in making the most of it while we’ve got it.

I’m particularly grateful that people often want to talk to me after the show. But they don’t say, “I saw you on TV.” They actually want to talk to me and say something about their life. I think that’s really very moving, and it really makes me love doing this.

Do we need to bring tissues?

It wouldn’t hurt to have one tucked away.

General admission tickets for “The Death of Me Yet” are available for $25 at revolutionstagecompany.com.

October 26

Ruth Hardy Park, Palm Springs

Presenting Sponsor

BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

You don’t want to miss the season premiere of that show you binge-watched over the summer. You’re invested, a fan who can’t wait to see what happens next. You heard that this may be the last season and you’ll be sad, if that’s so. Is it time to start looking for another, newer obsession or will you want to read “The Rainbow Age of Television” by Shayna Maci Warner, and find something old?

Like most kids of the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, Shayna Maci Warner spent lots of time glued to a television screen, devouring programming before school, after school, and all summer long. For Warner, that programming eventually led to a revelation. They saw people that looked like them, for which they formed “a personal attachment.” It was “life-changing...”

It didn’t happen all at once, and some of TV’s “milestones” are forever lost, since broadcasts were live until the 1950s. Shortly after shows were taped and preserved, homosexuality became a “source of worry and blunt fascination” but certain performers carefully presented gently risqué characters and dialog that nudged and winked at viewers.

Some queer representation appeared in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s when dramas began to feature more gay and lesbian characters, however subtly. It took a while for “the ‘rest’ of the alphabet” to be represented in a meaningful way and –despite that Star Trek and its many versions included gender-diverse characters – it wasn’t until 1996 that an intersex infant was featured on a regular television drama.

Since Ellen DeGeneres came out practically on her namesake TV show and Will & Grace became a wild hit, queer representation on TV has ceased to be an unusual thing. And yet, programmers and writers know that caution is still warranted: sometimes, “there can still be hesitation around pushing the envelope and fear that a queer character who burns too brightly just won’t last.”

Quick: name three after-school TV shows that aired when you were in Fourth Grade. If you can’t do it, one thing’s for certain: you need “The Rainbow Age of Television.”

But get ready for some argument. Author Shayna Maci Warner offers a rabid fan’s look at the best and the worst queer representation had to offer, and you may beg to differ with what they say about various programs. That makes this book a critique, of sorts, but Warner offers plenty of wiggle-room for argument.

Tussling over the finer points of queer programming, though, is only half the fun of reading this book. Microwave a box of pizza snacks or mac-and-cheese, demand “your” sofa seat, and dive into the nostalgia of old TV shows, most of them from the later last century. Yep, your faves are here. It’s like having an oldies channel on paper, and in your hand.

This is a must-have for former kids and current TV addicts who are happy to see themselves represented on TV. If that’s you, who brought the chips? “The Rainbow Age of Television” will just click.

“The Rainbow Age of Television: An Opinionated History of Queer TV” by Shayna Maci Warner c.2024, Abrams Press $28.00 304 pages

Wanna hand over the clicker?

October 24-27

More Than 50 events

Tickets and Information modernismweek.com

Modernism Week Featured Home Tour: The Shag House

Daily Tours October 24-27 | Various Times

The artist Shag has reimagined this midcentury Modern home, creating a fully immersive tour experience that will make visitors feel as though they have climbed into a life-size Shag painting.

Choose from Six Unique Double Decker Architectural Bus Tours

Daily Tours October 24-27 | Various Times

Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour

The Homes That Define Palm Springs Bus Tour

Sinatra’s Rat Pack Homes & Hangouts Bus Tour

Charles Phoenix Super Duper Double Decker Bus Tour

Twilight Architectural Bus Tour

Bella da Ball’s Bus Tour

House of Tomorrow Home Tour

Daily Tours October 24-27 | Various Times

Clinton Meyer

Michelle Boudreau Design

David A. Lee

Andrew Cabral

FEATURE FRESHY SNEAKERS FOUNDER SCOTT WILLMAN CELEBRATES INDIVIDUALITY AND COMMUNITY AT PALM SPRINGS PRIDE

BY TOM TIETJEN

In his formative years, Scott Willman, founder of Freshy Sneakers, grappled with finding his identity. “I didn’t quite fit in with my peers,” he reflects. “I wanted to be colorful when everyone else was wearing neutrals.” Looking back, he regrets allowing his suburban surroundings to dim his unique style. “We are all unicorns

and we need to embrace what makes us special,” he emphasizes. With the launch of Freshy Sneakers, Willman aimed to create more than just a footwear brand; he envisioned a lifestyle that treats customers as valued members of a vibrant community. The company champions diversity, promotes equality, and advocates for social change.

Freshy sneakers are not just shoes; they’re a celebration of selfexpression, offering a range of designs from playful and vibrant to sophisticated and luxurious. Each collection features meticulous craftsmanship, with Willman noting, “From the stitching to the materials, every element is chosen with care.”

This commitment to care extends beyond the products. Through the newly established FRESHYcares Foundation, Freshy Sneakers is partnering with BOO2BULLYING, a nonprofit dedicated to eradicating bullying and discrimination by educating schools and parents about embracing diversity.

At Palm Springs Pride, Willman is excited to showcase Freshy’s mission. He’ll join the festivities by walking in the parade alongside a striking 17-foot tall Freshy boombox, adorned in gold glitter and powered by a powerful Danley sound system.

“We are thrilled to be part of Palm Springs Pride,” Willman says. “We love the Palm Springs community and are always seeking ways to support it. We look forward to playing a key role in PS Pride and partnering with the remarkable Boo2Bullying organization to help everyone step into Pride with their best foot forward.”

How did growing up gay influence your sneaker company?

In my younger years, the societal climate forced me to play a straight role, hiding my true self and blending in. It wasn’t until I got into my twenties that I finally found the courage to embrace who I really am.

FEATURE

I regret dimming my shine for so long, which is why I created Freshy—to encourage people to be bold, confident, and to let their true colors shine.

How did you launch the brand?

I began by crafting a fictional world in the metaverse called FreshyWorld. It’s a magical realm filled with characters that guide customers on a journey to discover their individuality through shoes. My first design was the blue Brites, inspired by Superman’s shoes. I wanted them to leave a mark on any surface—dirt, snow, rain, or sand—with eye-catching raised letters on the sole, ensuring that wearers leave something special behind.

Leaving your mark is important to you. Why?

We should all strive to leave our mark on the world. Celebrating

our individuality is vital; it’s what makes us unique and what we will be remembered for. My message is clear: never change for the world. Instead, let the world change for you.

Is that the motto of Freshy’s “Brite Future” campaign?

Absolutely! Through our FRESHYcares Foundation, we’ve spent the summer donating shoes to young people in need, including graduating seniors from NYC’s Harvey Milk High School and homeless LGBTQ youth in San Francisco. We’re excited to support Boo2Bullying in their mission to combat bullying and promote diversity and inclusion. We want young people in our community to know that we see them and we stand behind them.

NYE HIGHLIGHTS DAP UPDATE

AN HIV A-TEAM

BY DANIEL VAILLANCOURT

At DAP Health’s Stonewall Medical Center, two very different physicians — both supremely devoted HIV/AIDS specialists — have formed the perfect partnership.

Dr. Clayton Barbour, 67, began at DAP Health back in 1994. In case you’re not counting, that’s three decades ago. But he’s been practicing HIV care since 1982. That’s 42 years in the field.

Dr. Jason Halperin, 45, came to DAP Health just last year, bringing with him more than 14 years of experience in the same discipline.

Working side by side at Stonewall Medical Center in Cathedral City, Dr. Barbour and Dr. Halperin — both married men; the former gay, the latter straight — use their shared passion for HIV and their shared commitment to DAP Health’s mission to better the lives of their patients. On a recent afternoon, I sat down with both for a chat.

Dr. Barbour, please tell me about your time at Stonewall prior to Dr. Halperin’s arrival.

Dr. Barbour: Well, it was hectic because I was the only physician. I was supervising four nurse practitioners and physician assistants during that time. It was like that for a while. Then COVID-19 came along in 2020, so it was hard to interview anybody. The few interviews we did have just didn’t pan out. So, 2020 to 2023 were the lean years. I think we did a good job, but it was just hard trying to keep up.

Dr. Halperin, what attracted you to DAP Health?

Dr. Halperin: I’m really good friends with [recently retired Stonewall Physician Assistant] Bruce Hinton. I had the amazing pleasure of working with Bruce in New Orleans, and knew he had

come out here and was working with Dr. Barbour at Stonewall. I will tell you that he was just the most effusive about his experience, even though those years were tough. He felt like the medical care being provided here was of a higher caliber than he’d ever seen — which I could not agree with more.

Tell me about your working relationship.

Dr. Barbour: It’s a great collaboration. It’s always good to have a second opinion sometimes. It’s also helped take some of the administrative burden off of me so I can spend more time on patient care.

Dr. Halperin: Clearly, Dr. Barbour has huge shoes to fill. He’s a brilliant physician. He has seen many of these patients for decades. They’re highly complicated. It’s an older patient population than that of your typical provider of HIV care.

Dr. Barbour: They were probably in their 30s and 40s when I started here. Now they’re in their 60s and 70s — some in their 80s.

Dr. Halperin: Over and over again, I have heard, “I was on death’s doorstep, and Dr. Barbour saved me!”

Dr. Barbour: We also do primary care. At some places, patients get a primary care doctor and have a specialist who does their HIV. We do it all. I take care of their diabetes or high blood pressure, whatever it may be. Really, nowadays, with modern medications, 90% of what we’re doing is general medicine. I think it’s better to have somebody who does it all.

Dr. Halperin: We’re also curing people with hepatitis C. We have a PrEP program for HIV prevention. And we have a really robust gender wellness program.

How does your only being here Mondays and Tuesdays work?

Dr. Halperin: It should be more! [Laughs.]

Dr. Barbour: But some things can be done also by telemedicine, when Dr. Halperin is at DAP Health’s Centro Medico Escondido.

Dr. Halperin: And we do have a new M.D., Kenji Hawthorne, who started in September. The plan is to have him be here Wednesday and

Thursday. Our vision is to integrate our HIV physicians at two sites into one clinical group. Dr. Hawthorne will be our first physician to spend three days a week at our Sunrise campus in Palm Springs, and two days a week here at Stonewall. But the reality is that this really works only because Dr. Barbour is here on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

How are you two alike?

Dr. Barbour: We’re alike in that we both have a lot of knowledge of HIV. I’ve been doing it for 30 years here, plus three years in San Francisco before that. I think my first patient with HIV had it before they even had a name for it. That was in medical school in 1982, and I’ve been doing it ever since. My medical career sort of grew up along with HIV. It’s been something that I just took an interest in and dedicated myself to.

So, Dr. Barbour, HIV was thrust upon you — a challenge you gladly accepted and relished. Dr. Halperin, you sought HIV out. Why?

Dr. Halperin: I was born in New York, and my folks moved outside of Miami when I was 10. My mom was an artist who taught art classes. She would often have one of her students come home. They were typically these brilliant, beautiful men. And unfortunately, six months later, we were going to their funeral. I was just beside myself. From that early age, I knew all I wanted to do is HIV work. I saw so many people get sick and pass that I went to medical school thinking I would be doing palliative HIV care. It’s just a miracle. I do not do palliative. I did not think I would be helping people live absolutely full lives. For the patient, HIV is always going to be highest on their list of concerns. But as the clinician, it’s probably number eight on my list.

Dr. Barbour: If you look back at the bad old days when I came here, [DAP Health Director of Infectious Diseases] Dr. Shubha Kerkar and I would have six to 10 patients in the hospital at a time. We’d have maybe four or five patients die per month. That was back in ’94, ’95. I was the director of the hospice for HIV. We closed it a year later. The modern therapy for HIV with Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) came about in late 1995, early 1996. Patients literally on death’s door would walk out of hospice.

Dr. Halperin: Another way we are alike is that we are both academically focused. There are a lot of people who provide good HIV care. But there are others, like Dr. Barbour, who go that extra step to know the latest data and science. And we very much align there.

NYE SOCIALHIGHLIGHTS

SIRPLUS CONTINUES TO GROW, PROVING OLDER IS TRULY BOLDER!

BY ROBIN GRAY

SIRPLUS the dating app for GBTQ men over 40, is celebrating its two-year anniversary this year and is continuing to show impressive growth in men over 40 looking for dates.

The app was created to provide a space for a community of mature and single gay men over 40, an often ignored and neglected segment of the gay community online. Most gay dating apps today are focused heavily on making sexual connections. SIRPLUS was created to offer a more rounded experience, where users are able to include an intellectual aspect to their search for a meaningful relationship.

In a recent survey run by SIRPLUS, it was found that 50% of men over the age of 40 are still actively dating. It also showed that, despite the stereotypes, there is a strong desire to date people of the same age.

While it has been a regular stereotype that mature GBTQ men seek the companionship of younger men, the survey and the ever-growing membership of the app has proven that a significant proportion of the mature dating community is seeking a deeper connection with other men their own age.

Responses to the survey also showed that there is a need for greater information around dating with relationship tips and sex advice being mentioned regularly in the feedback. This makes sense as people over 40 may have been out of the dating game for a while and due to changes in life have been thrust back into this world which has moved on at pace.

To address this need, SIRPLUS is announcing the launch of a new monthly newsletter to its members which aims to provide information,

tips and advice on a range of topics related to dating and relationships, including sex, ideas for dates, event news and more.

“We’re thrilled with SIRPLUS’s progress to date and its continuing growth has proven that there is a real need for connection in the over 40 dating community. The survey results have shown that dating over 40 is a thriving scene and we’re excited that the SIRPLUS app can provide a space for its users to find a deeper connection. Our new

monthly newsletter can also help with information and top tips to improve GBTQ men’s dating and life-over-40 experience.”

-Patrick, Co-Founder of SIRPLUS.

If you’re looking to connect with mature GBTQ men on a deeper level and benefit from some great advice in the new newsletter, then download SIRPLUS now for iOS on the App Store and Android from Google Play. www.sirplusmen.com

MODERNISM WEEK OCTOBER SPECIAL EVENT!

BY BOB BOGARD

See tiki legend Martin Cate, the award-winning bar owner of San Francisco’s famed Smuggler’s Cove unearth the tiki cocktail’s highstakes tale of invention, theft, and intrigue.

Journey from the lush Caribbean isles where the tiki cocktail was born. Take a deep dive into the tarnished tinsel of Hollywood’s tiki craze and explore the mid-century glamor of Palm Springs at the

height of the tiki revolution.

Revel in the epic modern resurgence of this iconic cocktail while enjoying a complimentary cocktail served in our exclusive Alohana tiki mug. Take the party home with a signed copy of Martin and Rebecca Cate’s award-winning book Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum, and the Cult of Tiki.

Afterwards shop the Alohana Tiki Marketplace for a wide selection of vintage and exotic tiki-themed goods.

Revel in the epic modern resurgence of this iconic cocktail while enjoying a complimentary cocktail served in our exclusive Alohana tiki mug.

Take the party home with a signed copy of Martin and Rebecca Cate’s award-winning book Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum, and the Cult of Tiki.

Afterwards shop the Alohana Tiki Marketplace for a wide selection of vintage and exotic tiki-themed goods.

PSP FOCUS

SWEET BABY J’AI PRESENTS: THE PALM SPRINGS SUNSET MUSIC & COMEDY FESTIVAL VETERANS DAY EXTRAVAGANZA!

Get ready for an unforgettable Veterans Day Weekend filled with music, laughter, and star-studded performances. November 8-10, 2024. Join us on our Palm Springs “Jazz Crawl” and explore the city’s vibrant music venues. Enjoy delicious food, captivating performances, and unforgettable memories.

November 8th – Oscar’s Downtown Palm Springs. 125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, for the Opening Night Victory Party of the Palm Springs Sunset Music & Comedy Festival! Dress to impress for a chance to win the best-themed outfit prize. Arrive early to enjoy a pre-concert dinner and secure prime seating for an unforgettable

night. Groove to the award-winning blues of Laurie Morvan, the soulful sounds of countrysoul singer Serafia, and a high-energy DJ set blending old-school R&B with today’s hits from renowned DJ Jiji Sweet. Let’s kick off Veterans Day weekend in style!

November 9th – Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Rd. Get ready to laugh and groove! Sweet Baby J’ai Presents A Night of Music & Comedy is back! Join Grammy-nominated soul jazz sensation, Kandace Springs, comedy queen Dr. Karen Williams, cello diva Jennifer Corday, classical rock violinist Emily V, and more surprises for a night of unforgettable music and laughter!

November 10th – Revolution Stage Company, 611. S. Palm Canyon Dr. Hold on tight as acclaimed saxophonist Pamela Williams, “The Saxtress,” takes the stage with Sweet Baby J’ai and the Women in Jazz All-Stars, featuring Sunnie Paxson, Robin Bramlett, Dee Thompson, Tatiana Tate, and Kimberly Allison. Blending smooth jazz, funk, R&B, and pop, Williams’ electrifying performances are must-see. With a dash of musical comedy by Yve Evans, this afternoon of live music promises to be unforgettable.

ABOUT US:

Sweet Baby J’ai Presents the Sunset Music Series offers a diverse musical journey throughout the year. From intimate showcases to our electrifying three-day festival, we deliver unforgettable experiences. Our commitment to artistic excellence and inclusivity shines through in every performance. Beyond the stage, we’re dedicated to nurturing young talent through our SMARTS initiative by providing underprivileged youth with access to musical instruments and education. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and community, and help us make a difference.

For tickets and information visit: www.sweetbabyjai.com

EMILY V

DR. KAREN WILLIAMS

KANDACE SPRINGS

LAURIE MORVAN JENNIFER CORDAY

PALM SPRINGS SPEAKS >> PSP FOCUS

Presented by the Friends of the Palm Springs Library, Palm Springs Speaks is excited to announce the addition of Senator Toni G. Atkins to the event with Donna Brazile on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 7:00 PM at the Richards Center for the Arts at the Palm Springs High School.

Ms. Brazile will be talking about “What Did We Do to Deserve This? The Voter’s Perspective on the Fall Campaign.” She will be introduced by special guest Senator Toni G. Atkins who will also facilitate a question-and-answer segment with Ms. Brazile following her presentation.

Senate Pro Tem Emeritus Toni Atkins is the first woman and openly LGBTQ person to serve as President pro Tempore of the California State Senate, and the first person in nearly 150 years to have served as both Pro Tem and Speaker of the Assembly. From her eight-year tenure on the San Diego City Council to her years in the Legislature, Atkins has dedicated her career to serving as a champion for affordable housing, working Californians and the environment. Toni Atkins is a coalition builder who delivered eight on-time balanced state budgets with two Governors, building record reserves without raising taxes on working people. As a leader, she negotiated the passage of historic climate goals and increased access to health care.

In addition to being a leading voice for affordable housing, she is a powerful advocate for women, the LGBTQ+ community, military veterans, and people experiencing homelessness. Earlier this year, she launched her campaign to be the first woman and openly LGBTQ+ person to serve as Governor of California.

Tickets to see these two political heavyweights, talking two weeks before the 2024 Presidential Election, are available for just $35, $45, and $55 so there is a ticket price for every budget! ADA spaces are available.

New this season is a ‘Co-Host’ opportunity, where, for a $500 partially tax-deductible contribution to this event you will receive two priority seats in the first three rows, your name or business listed on a combined Co-Host slide on the screen at the event, and an opportunity to meet Ms. Brazile following her presentation and have your photo taken by a professional photographer (with digital delivery).

To purchase tickets or for more information about the new CoHost opportunity or the speaker series, visit palmspringsspeaks.org.

MEDIA Contact: Julie Warren 760-416-6731 palmspringsspeaks@gmail.com or julie.warren@palmspringsca.gov

DONNA BRAZILE

SENATOR TONI G. ATKINS

MUSIC BILLY PORTER: BLACK MONA LISA VOL 2

BY MARTHA TANG

Global powerhouse and visionary iconoclast Billy Porter proudly presents his anxiously awaited new EP, Black Mona Lisa Vol. 2: The Cookout Sessions, out now. It serves as the companion and successor to his acclaimed 2023 full-length LP, Black Mona Lisa.

This time around, Billy taps into some of his most formative influences. These six tracks deliver an unabashed homage to black music and dance music. Simultaneously, he consciously harks back to his R&B roots. The single Not Today sounds as if it could’ve been written for a classic seventies Blaxploitation flick. Produced by The Shapeshifters, a head-nodding bassline thumps beneath anxious cymbals as he flexes his seismically stunning vocal range over shimmering keys. He holds tight to each note, “The ground is starting to shake because the children of the world didn’t come here to play! Not Today!”

Laced with a message, the track transmits a politically charged clarion call trumpeted with raw and righteous soul. Between the horns and sly disco bounce, it exists somewhere between The Paradise Garage and Motown—entirely in Billy’s own incomparable world.

Regarding the track, he said, “The Shapeshifters helped me find my crossover, mainstream music sound with my single ‘FINALLY READY,’ that felt grounded in history as well as simultaneously being thrillingly modern. I’m first generation post-civil rights movement, and I grew up with protest music that has all but disappeared in the music industry of today. It’s time to use music to speak truth to power again. NOT TODAY is a call-to-action. Musically inspired by the topical songs of the 70s, which were penned by Norman Whitfield, NOT TODAY is a demand for equality and change! A change for good.”

Elsewhere, he leans further into the seventies on the Peter Zizzo penned Skin Deep, which yearns for an unconditional love beyond the surface. He also joins forces with co - producers and arrangers Christian Almiron and Jerome O. Kirkland Jr on Audacity (Live), taking this Black Mona Lisa staple and concert favorite to church with the backing of a full choir. Finally, he taps none other than the one and only Big Freedia for a rhythmic, rowdy, and uproarious rendition of his signature Black Mona Lisa.

He goes on, “I love Big Freedia - The Queen of Bounce! She’s been knocking down the doors for a while now and the idea of having two mainstream artists comfortable in their intersectionality as both Black and Queer coming together on this afro-tinged remix by my friend Lofey is monumental! If you didn’t know I was blackety-black by now, Big Freedia will let you know! Black Mona Lisa. DaVinci Creature...Pay me more than gold!”

Closing out The Cookout Sessions collection is Sgt. Slick’s Discotizer Remix of the lead track Leap where the Australian House music DJ and producer transforms the groover into a peak performance outing adding a dash of International flavor to this satisfying meal.

He initially paved the way for the EP with Leap. Produced by longtime collaborator Lofey (Mary J Blige, Mariah Carey, Chris Brown), and written by the late legendary songwriter Andrea Martin (Monica, Toni Braxton, En Vogue), Leap embodies a classic R&B groove and memorable melody designed to inspire. The song has received Remix treatments from Sgt Slick and Dale Move.

Billy also recently delivered a string of much talked-about performances as part of the “Summer of Prides.” Often assuming the roles of Grand Marshal and Headliner, he touched down coastto-coast for pride events in Dallas, Nashville, San Francisco, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., among other concert appearances. He crossed the pond to ignite an audience of nearly half-a-million in Brighton, UK at Brighton Pride. Not to mention, he uplifted the DNC with a stunning and spirited set and jetted down to Brazil for a festival in the Amazon before closing out the summer by co-headlining Global Black Pride in Atlanta with Afrobeats phenomenon Yemi Alade.

Plus, he hosted iHeartRadio’s “Can’t Cancel Pride” special, airing on Hulu and iHeartRadio platforms. During the special, he accepted the 2024 Elton John Impact Award and performed “Leap”.

KYLIE MINOGUE RELEASES NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FOR “LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION”

BY MARTHA TANG

Kylie Minogue released brand new single and video for “Lights Camera Action” from her highly anticipated upcoming release, Tension II - out October 18 via BMG.

“Lights Camera Action” captures the carefree spirit of the nightclub and continues the euphoric, electronic sound of previous album Tension. Produced by Lewis Thompson and written by Kylie, Thompson and Ina Wroldsen - who co-wrote smash hit single “Padam Padam” - the high energy club-inspired track is the perfect follow up to recent dance hit and Ibiza favorite, “Edge of Saturday Night” with The Blessed Madonna. The new single also includes remixes by Confidence Man, Zach Witness and Jaconda.

The accompanying video, directed by Sophie Muller and shot in Budapest, sees Kylie assuming multiple roles in several ultra iconic guises. From photographer to film star Kylie is in front of the camera and behind it in this instant classic.

Tension II is the high-octane sequel to the Number 1, global smash Tension and sees Kylie head further into the electronic space. A brand-new collection of 13 songs, packed full of dance floor anthems including nine brand new Kylie studio tracks plus recent collaborations with The Blessed Madonna, Orville Peck, Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo, and Sia.

Tension II Tracklisting:

1. Lights Camera Action

2. Taboo

3. Someone For Me

4. Good As Gone

5. Kiss Bang Bang

6. Diamonds

Dance To The Music

9. Shoulda Left Ya

10. Edge Of Saturday Night (with The Blessed Madonna)

11. My Oh My (with Bebe Rexha & Tove Lo)

12. Midnight Ride (with Orville Peck & Diplo)

13. Dance Alone (with Sia)

Last week Minogue also announced her highly anticipated ‘Tension Tour’ for 2025, which will see the global icon perform in cities across the world and is set to be Kylie’s biggest tour since 2011. Opening in Kylie’s home country Australia, the tour will then head into Asia and reach the UK in May, with more countries and dates to be announced over the coming weeks including Europe, and North and South America.

2024 has already seen Kylie take home the Global Icon Award at the BRITs, win the Best Pop Dance Recording Grammy for the smash hit, ‘Padam Padam’, attend the Met Gala, complete her inaugural Las Vegas Residency, perform at WeHo Pride and release a series of highprofile collaborations. July saw Kylie perform an awe-inspiring and critically lauded headline show at London’s BST Hyde Park. Described by The Guardian as “a glorious celebration of pop perfection” (5*) and by Metro as “outrageously good” (5*), Rolling Stone’s 5* review said: “This pop queen’s London takeover proves her unchallengeable place atop the throne remains perfectly intact.” Kylie released her Number 1 album ‘Tension’ in September 2023 which has now surpassed 500,000 sales worldwide and nearing half a billion streams.

Kylie Minogue - Lights Camera Action (Official Video) https://youtu.be/aAVqr8hwjVY?si=jQa3w-7BdoXF1ilw

7. Hello

TRANSCENDENCE CROWNING AMERICA’S NEXT TRANSGENDER PAGEANT QUEEN

BY TOM TIETJEN

The Miss International Queen pageant, the premier beauty pageant for transgender women in the United States, is set to dazzle Las Vegas from December 8th to 12th, 2024. This five-day event promises a stunning celebration of empowerment, talent, and the incredible resilience of transgender women from across the nation. Participants will share their transformative journeys, highlighting their courage and achievements in a society that often marginalizes them.

Todd Montgomery, a representative of Be The Transformational Change Fund (BTTC), the nonprofit hosting MIQ-USA, emphasizes that the event is about far more than just beauty. “MIQ-USA is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of life, community, and progress,” Montgomery says. “It is sure to inspire and spread joy to the thousands in attendance.” The event’s mission aligns closely with the organization’s broader goals of supporting LGBTQIA+ causes and promoting positive change within the community.

A centerpiece of the 2024 event will be the presence of the reigning Miss International Queen – USA, Kataluna Enriquez, who has become a trailblazer in the LGBTQIA+ community. Enriquez made history in 2021 by becoming the first openly transgender woman to win the Miss Nevada USA pageant, and later went on to compete in Miss USA. Her groundbreaking accomplishments have continued, with her participation in the Miss International Queen pageant in Thailand in August 2024, where she won the Best Talent category and placed in the top six overall.

Enriquez’s inspiring story of perseverance and empowerment will resonate throughout the pageant week, as she makes several appearances to encourage and uplift this year’s contestants. She will pass on her crown to her successor during the final night of MIQ-USA, a historic moment that will honor both her achievements and the ongoing celebration of transgender beauty, grace, and resilience.

The event kicks off on Sunday, December 8th, with a press conference and the much-anticipated Sashing Ceremony. Here, the contestants will be introduced to the public while proudly donning their sashes, marking the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable week. This event is open to the public and will provide a first look at the talented women competing for the 2024 Miss International Queen – USA title.

Community service lies at the heart of MIQ-USA’s mission, and December 9th will be a day dedicated to giving back. Contestants will gather at the LGBTQIA+ Center in Las Vegas to participate in a holiday-themed service project, preparing gifts for LGBTQIA+ youth.

KATALUNA - PHOTO CREDIT - SHUTTERSTOCK

KATALUNA PHOTO CREDIT ANNELI ADOLFSSON

KATALUNA PHOTO CREDIT

ANNELI ADOLFSSON

TRANSCENDENCE

This powerful gesture of generosity and support embodies the pageant’s commitment to uplifting the entire community. The day will culminate in the glamorous MIQ-USA Gala Event, where contestants will have the opportunity to meet VIP guests, mingle with the judges, and walk the red carpet in a star-studded evening of fine dining and celebration.

December 10th will bring one of the most anticipated events of the competition: the National Costume and Talent Show. Hosted at the prestigious Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus, this event will see the contestants take the stage in elaborate costumes that represent their home states. The creativity and artistry on display will undoubtedly captivate the audience. Following the costume showcase, contestants will participate in the Talent portion of the evening, allowing them to showcase their unique skills and abilities. This night will be co-hosted by Shantell DeMarco, a former MIQ contestant and Miss Continental, alongside Mimi Marks, a former Miss International Queen and Miss Continental, adding even more glamour to the event.

On December 11th, the pageant will take a different tone, with a focus on empowerment and education. A series of workshops led by Be the Transformational Change (BTTC) Fund will offer valuable insights into advocacy, leadership, and personal growth. The nonprofit organization plays a crucial role in making MIQ-USA possible, and these workshops are designed to inspire both contestants and attendees alike. The day will conclude with the Preliminary Night show, hosted by Jazell Barbie Royale, a celebrated figure in the LGBTQIA+ community, with surprise appearances from other notable figures. Contestants will compete in preliminary rounds, leading to the grand finale of the competition.

The final night, December 12th, will be a crowning spectacle not to be missed. Co-hosted by Alexandra Billings, a trans-American actress known

for her roles in Transparent and ER, and Jayson Michael, a renowned Las Vegas entertainer and dancer, the evening promises star-studded performances and unforgettable moments. Ada Vox, a celebrated artist who gained national recognition on American Idol and Queen of the Universe, will take the stage alongside Jazell Barbie Royale and other beloved performers, including Melony Munro, Tisci, and Shantell D’Marco.

The finalists will compete in the iconic swimsuit and evening gown competitions, before moving on to a question-and-answer session that will showcase their intelligence, grace, and poise under pressure. This will be the final test before Kataluna Enriquez crowns the 2024 Miss International Queen – USA, marking a new chapter in the celebration of transgender beauty and achievement.

For those interested in attending this unforgettable week of events, individual tickets and all-event passes are available now at Bethetransformationalchange.org/miq-usa-tickets.

For those unable to attend in person, donations to Be the Transformational Change Fund can be made by texting BTTC to 302725-4509. All proceeds from donations and ticket sales will go directly to supporting LGBTQIA+ causes, furthering the pageant’s mission of creating a brighter, more inclusive future.

Keep up with all the latest news and updates by following Miss International Queen – USA on Facebook or on Instagram @ Missinternationalqueenusa.

With the grandeur of Las Vegas as its backdrop and the inspiring presence of Kataluna Enriquez, MIQ-USA 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of beauty, resilience, and empowerment for transgender women across the nation.

PERSPECTIVE

THINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS WHAT THEY SEEM: BEWARE OF IDENTITY FRAUD

BY JOE AMAURY

Scam artists are constantly changing tactics to steal your personal identifiable information (PII), including account usernames and passwords, Social Security numbers, birth dates, credit and debit card numbers, personal identification numbers (PINs) or other sensitive information. With this information, they can carry out crimes like financial fraud that can be difficult and frustrating for victims to remedy.

The United States Postal Inspection Service is working hard to stop these scammers in their tracks. You can help too, by familiarizing yourself with these identity fraud scams designed to trick you into giving up your “financial DNA” and turning over your personal identifiable information (PII) to imposters.

1. PHISHING

If you ever receive an email about a package delivery or unpaid online postage charges, usually with the subject line, “Delivery Failure Notification,” be careful. These phishing emails appear to be from the U.S. Postal Service, but they are not, and you should not interact with them. The phishing emails may contain either a spoofed or fake URL for you to follow or a file that if opened, can activate a virus, both resulting in stealing your personal information.

How can you tell if an email is NOT from USPS or the Postal Inspection Service? If the email requests “immediate action,” has poor grammar and spelling errors, asks you to confirm PII or asks for payment of any kind, you’re likely dealing with a phishing email. USPS officials would never contact consumers directly asking for payment or PII.

If you receive a phishing email:

• Treat your personal information like cash

• Don’t click on any links

• Forward USPS-related spam emails to spam@uspis.gov

• Report non-USPS spam emails to the Federal Trade Commission

• Delete the email

2. SMISHING

Have you received unsolicited mobile text messages with an unfamiliar or strange web link that indicates a USPS delivery requires your response? You’re likely dealing with a smishing scam. This type of deceptive text message lures recipients into providing personal or financial information. Scammers often attempt to disguise themselves as a government agency, bank or other company to lend legitimacy to their claims.

Even if you’ve signed up for USPS tracking, pay close attention to the message. The Postal Service will never ask you for PII in a text message, redirect you to another site for payment, or contact you via text message, unless you initiated the request.

If you receive a smishing text message from the Postal Service:

• Don’t click on the link

• Don’t reply

• Forward the smishing/text message to 7726 or email spam@uspis.gov

• Report non-USPS fraud to the Federal Trade Commission

• Delete the text message

• Block spam messages

• Review your cellphone bill for suspicious charges

• Keep your security software up to date

3. VISHING

You may have enjoyed the game telephone when you were younger but calls from scammers trying to get your personal

information are nothing to play with. A new twist on phishing, vishing is something you need to be aware of. Vishing is short for voice phishing and scammers will try to hook you as soon as you answer the phone.

HERE’S HOW TO SPOT IT.

Scammers call from a number that may look familiar or even appear to be from a legitimate source, like your bank or a government agency. The caller, however, is anything but legit. They may claim there’s an issue with your account or a problem that requires your immediate attention. Then the scammers will ask for sensitive information like Social Security numbers, credit card details or passwords.

To protect yourself from vishing:

• Verify the identity of the caller

• Ask yourself why the caller is asking for your information

• Never give out sensitive information over the phone

• Report the call to the alleged bank, government agency or company

• Block spam callers

• Place your number on the national Do Not Call List

4. QUISHING

QR codes are incredibly common nowadays. You’ve probably

seen them on posters, food menus and TV screens. Take caution before you scan. Some QR codes may be a form of phishing known as quishing.

If you receive a message from an unfamiliar email address or text message or find a poster in a high-traffic location, don’t scan it. If you do, the QR code could take you to a scammer’s website (which may look legitimate) but is designed to scam you out of your PII.

If you find or receive a suspicious QR code:

• Don’t scan it, especially if the message or poster urges you to act immediately

• Report the QR code to the bank, government agency or company that the scam artist is impersonating

• Block scam messages

STAY ALERT!

Scammers are always on the hunt for sensitive information. Protect yourself and others by using caution and reporting suspicious emails, texts, calls, voicemails and QR codes to the proper authorities. To learn more about how to protect yourself from identity fraud, visit uspis.gov/identity-fraud-2024. You can also find additional fraud prevention resources on our website at USPIS.gov.

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 TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE STANDARD PLEASE GO TO THESTANDARDPS.COM

If you are an artist and would like to be considered for our ART VIEW - Artist Profile, please email us at info@thestandardps.com.

Healthy Living!

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

OCTOBER

Provider Referral

Need assistance finding a doctor or other provider? Call 760.568.1234.

Understanding Abdominal

Aortic Screening, Venous Ablation Procedure and How to Navigate Heart Failure

Presented in partnership with Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley

TH, Oct 3, 6 to 7 p.m.

Brett Arkley, RDMS, RVT, RT; Lisa Fontes, MSN, RN, CV-BC; and Jaclyn Schmitz, BSN, RN

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.

Lecture also held in person at the Annenberg Health Sciences Building.

What the Heck is Sepsis?

W, Oct 9, noon to 1 p.m.

Denise Lewis, RN

Sepsis Program Coordinator

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.

Diabetes and Healthy Eating

W, Oct 9, 4 to 5 p.m.

Marielena Cid, MSN, RN, CDCES, PHN

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.

Bariatric Surgery Information

SA, Oct 12, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Bobby Bhasker-Rao, MD

Board Certified in General Surgery

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3796.

Blood Drive

M, Oct 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 800.879.4484

Bariatric Surgery Information

TU, Oct 15, 8:15 to 9:30 a.m.

Jorge A. Almodovar, MD

Board Certified in General Surgery

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3796.

From Cancer Treatment to Survivorship: How to Cope with Everyday Life

Selby Dunham Community Lecture Series

TU, Oct 22, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Shay Moraga, ERYT 500, YA CEP, Trauma-Informed Yoga Instructor; Sonja Fung, ND;

Elizabeth Ayala Moreno, Survivor; and Terry Startzel, Survivor

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3798.

Finding Peace in Turbulent Times

W, Oct 23, 4 to 5 p.m.

Karen Stewart, RN

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.

Bariatric Surgery Information

W, Oct 23, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Bobby Bhasker.Rao, MD

Board Certified in General Surgery

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3796.

Empowering Our Community: Expanding Comprehensive

Breast Cancer Care

Selby Dunham Community Lecture Series

TH, Oct 24, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

A panel of breast cancer experts from the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online, or call 760.834.3798.

Heart-to-Heart:

Your Questions Answered

TU, Oct 30, noon to 1 p.m.

Chanaka Wickramasinghe, MD

Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease

Visit EisenhowerHealth.org/Calendar to register online.

SUPPORT GROUPS

For information or registration, call the number listed, or visit EisenhowerHealth.org/SupportGroups.

Adults Molested as Children

Every TH, 4 to 5 p.m.

To register, call 760.340.2336.

Bariatric Surgery

Second M of month, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

To register, call 760.834.3796

Breast Cancer

Every W, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. To register, call 760.834.3798.

Breast/Chestfeeding

Every TU, 10 to 11:30 a.m. To register, call 760.773.2096.

Grupo de Apoyo Contra el Cáncer en Español

El tercer miércoles del mes de 4 a 5 p.m. Llame a 760.773.1426 para confirmar asistencia o para más información.

Mended Hearts

Second TH of month 6 to 8 p.m., Oct to Jun To register, call 760.501.5096.

Myeloma

First TH of month, 3 to 4 p.m. To register, call 760.834.3798

Ostomy

First TH of month, 1 to 2:30 p.m. To register, call 760.773.2999.

Prostate Cancer

First and third M of month, 4 to 5 p.m. To register, call 760.834.3798

Diabetes: Tools, Tricks and Technologies

Third TU of month 3 to 4:30 p.m., Oct to Jun To register, call 760.773.1403.

We Care: Stroke

Third M of month 1 to 2:30 p.m., Sept to Jun To register, call 760.285.5352

Annenberg Health Sciences Building

Eisenhower Family Birth Center

Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center

Joslyn Center, Palm Desert

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center

Eisenhower George and Julia Argyros Health Center, La Quinta

Probst Building

Refreshments or meal available

Virtual option

As busy as life can be... a healthier life is in your hands.

Scan the QR code with your mobile device to learn more about all of Eisenhower Health’s lectures, events, classes and support groups — many offering simple online registration.