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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.
BY MICHEL KHORDOC
The Dinah, the world’s largest event and music festival for queer women, is celebrating its 33rd Anniversary September 25th through the 29th marking its lasting impact on both the LGBTQ+ community and the city of Palm Springs.
Once more, big names make The Dinah 2024 a must-attend queer party destination for everyone’s bucket list. Lauren Jauregui, Iniko, KiNG MALA, Lauren Sanderson, Whitney Peyton, Lucy & La Mer, and Sherrelle Holmes have been announced as headliners for the 33rd edition of the world renown festival.
If the past two decades has seen The Dinah take a commanding place in the music festival market, it is all thanks to the event’s founder and producer, Mariah Hanson – the creative mind fueling the magic.
Always keeping her finger on pulse of the music scene, Hanson has secured a stunning lineup featuring an impressive array of high-profile headlining acts and up-and-coming talent.
Celebrating the power of queer expression, these incredible vanguards are bringing their empowerment anthems and true self-revolution to The Dinah stage. And breaking boundaries is all these exceptionally gifted rule-breaking and genre-bending queer artists are set out to do.
The iconic festival kicks off one of its main events, The Black and White Ball, with award-winning artist Lauren Jauregui. The multiplatinum Cuban American singer-songwriter and former member of girl group Fifth Harmony embraced her freedom of expression on her 2021 acclaimed independent debut, PRELUDE (AWAL). The pop star and LGBTQ+ activist has collaborated with the likes of Halsey and Steve Aoki to 6lack, Vic Mensa, Ty Dolla $ign and Russ. Her latest EP, IN BETWEEN is her sophomore effort which was recently released following a sold-out Latin American tour.
Adding to the pulsating and exhilarating fabric of The Dinah is multi-talented Brooklyn native, Iniko. who takes center stage at
the Hollywood Party on Saturday night. As a proud non-binary artist, Iniko uses their music on behalf of the queer community. After rising to fame in 2018, they have amassed a huge following on TikTok, crossing the 4 million follower mark. Iniko’s songs “The King’s Affirmation” and “Jericho” achieved viral success, by reaching 1 over 25 million Spotify streams. That success led to a nomination for Outstanding Music Artist at the 2024 GLAAD Media Awards and a Billboard chart debut.
Another highly anticipated headliner is KiNG MALA. The LAbased alternative pop music artist, born Areli Castro, the is set to take the stage during the Saturday pool party. With masculine
tropes and defiant lyricism KiNG MALA, whose name translates to “king bad bitch,” is on a mission to defy the rules of gender and to encourage her fans to embrace their individuality. And her latest EP, Split Milk, which dropped last November, does just that!
Also bringing glitz and glamour to the Dinah’s Hollywood Party is Lauren Sanderson.
The rule-breaking and genre-bending queer artist is making a lot of noise with her new anthem for self-love, “They Won’t Like This,” produced by KThrash, the lead single from her upcoming third studio album due out this summer. Since her 2020 debut album Midwest Kids Can Make It Big, Sanderson has earned accolades from MTV, Billboard, PAPER, Spotify’s New Music Friday and more. Sanderson made a memorable sneak appearance during The Dinah 2022 joining queer icon Fletcher on stage and whipping the crowd into a frenzy.
From supporting acts like FINNEAS and Chase Atlantic, releasing her viral TikTok banger, “THERAPY!” and a massively successful collaboration with queer icon GFLIP, “GAY 4 ME,” to hitting the road on her 37-city world tour taking her through North America, Europe & the UK, Sanderson’s star continues to rise.
The Dinah pool parties is an experience that is second to none!
The Margaritaville Resort’s main pool area, home to The Dinah’s legendary pool parties, is the perfect queer oasis with its massive pool deck and idyllic tropical surroundings.
Bringing the heat to the festivities, Whitney Peyton kicks off the pool party weekend-series Friday afternoon. The multi-Billboardcharting, Grammy Award Winning contributing rapper, songwriter, and performer rose to prominence in the underground by releasing 3 albums, 2 mixtapes & 4 EPs all independently. Her most recent independently released albums, ‘The Audacity’ and ‘Side Effects,’ achieved Billboard charting numbers. She has graced the main stage at major music
The Dinah has always been a festival that celebrates and promotes up-and-coming artists, and nothing exemplifies that ethos more than the Emerging Artist Contest.
“The Dinah’s musical line up strives to present the boldest and best in queer or queer friendly music, focusing on signed artists who are either breaking out or have achieved an impressive level of success,” says Mariah Hanson. “But so many unsigned artists wanted to play The Dinah. So, I developed the Emerging Artist Contest, which showcases unsigned artists and offers them a level of exposure that serves to both expand their fan base and expose them to a larger audience. It’s been a huge success.”
The contest, now a Dinah signature event, has shepherded the careers of many talents including Lucy & La Mer and Sherrelle Holmes who headline the Sunday pool party. Both queer artists participated in the Emerging Artist Contest in 2023 but their music videos were so well produced Hanson immediately pulled them out and officially added them to the 2024 festival bill.
The Dinah is far beyond a local event, it is a worldwide phenomenon that has seen its own community use the incomparable festival as the benchmark for all the others.
A unique invitation to revel in the sense of unity and community that permeates the event and embark on a journey into a world of empowerment and inclusivity where true selves are celebrated.
Some things just need to be seen to be believed! There is simply nothing like The Dinah in the world.
For more information visit: www.TheDinah.com
BY MONA ELYAFI
The Dinah, the world’s largest event and music festival for queer women, is celebrating its 33rdAnniversary September 25th through the 29th marking its lasting impact on both the LGBTQ+ community and the city of Palm Springs.
Once more, big names make The Dinah 2024 a must-attend queer party destination for everyone’s bucket list.
The iconic festival kicks off one of its main events, The Black and White Ball, with award-winning artist Lauren Jauregui. The multiplatinum Cuban American singer-songwriter and former member of girl group Fifth Harmony embraced her freedom of expression on her 2021 acclaimed independent debut, PRELUDE (AWAL). The pop star and LGBTQ+ activist has collaborated with the likes of Halsey and Steve Aoki to 6lack, Vic Mensa, Ty Dolla $ign and Russ. Her latest EP, IN BETWEEN is her sophomore effort which was recently released following a sold-out Latin American tour.
We sat down with Lauren to get a bit of insight to her creative process and what she plans on bringing to this year’s event.
With your first album Prelude you highlighted a lot of your personality; does In Between differ from that? And in what ways does it connect to it?
They were both EP’s, I still am working on my first album right now, but I imagine they both together would have been what I envisioned as my debut. They both tell stories about my experiences through my different emotions running through life, love, this industry and my mind so I think they both encapsulate my essence in complementary ways.
What is the meaning behind the title In Between?
This was the project that I felt was not necessarily the first album but a continuation and a middle ground between my first EP Prelude and the album; sort of like the second stop along the way of introduction. I also go deeply into what I feel the title means to me in the intro title track “In Between” which is just a poem over some beautiful music. I really get into the meaning in there. The In Between is a space of not yet actualized but in the making like an undeveloped photograph.
There’s an unfiltered honesty and authenticity in your music, who are some artists that have influenced & inspired you?
I’m really inspired by a wide range of songwriters and performers. I love Adele, Amy Winehouse, Summer Walker, SZA, Hayley Williams’ confessional lyricism and I love Beyoncé, FKA Twigs, earlier Lana Del Rey’s sort of experimental pop/r&b influenced sonic landscapes and melodies. I also loved Kelly Clarkson & P!nk & Christina Aguilera, Shakira, Celine Dion, Mariah, Whitney, Aretha, Mary J Blige, Rihanna, Celia Cruz— a wide range of divas and singerrrrs and performers. It’s such a wide range of talent I’ve been influenced & inspired by.
As a queer Latina, how did you learn to embrace your sexuality and your true self through your music?
I just kinda accepted it about myself one day because I was really in love with a woman and life put me in the circumstance of having to publicly confront it so I just kinda did. It’s just important for me to be myself and not have to pretend, I’m not very good at that ha-ha. Also hearing Syd sing about women shifted something in my brain. Special Affair by The Internet made something click inside.
You sing in “Spanglish”, you are fluent in Spanish, and you identify as queer. How do you celebrate the diverse cultures that shape your identity?
I mean they’re all just markers of things that have shaped my identity, so I feel like it’s celebrated through the way I live my life and create my art.
How important is it for you to express your views and opinions on matters you actively speak up for like social justice initiatives, human rights, women’s and LGBTQ+ rights?
Very important—to me it’s all just the concept of universal human rights and the intersectionality of all the issues that prevent that from being a reality.
How excited are you to perform at The Dinah this September?
Extremely excited. This is an iconic lesbian/queer space curated by women for women and I’m grateful they considered my energy to perform. I love performing, especially for my queer community.
What does The Dinah mean to you? What had you heard about the event prior to being contacted to headline?
What I know most about The Dinah is its iconic legacy of being a space curated by and for the lesbian/queer female & nonbinary community. The way it centers women’s love of women to me is incredibly special and I’m, again, so grateful to perform here and join the amazing roster of queer legends that have graced this beautiful space.
Do you that Snow Tha Product headlined The Dinah in 2018? You collaborated with her on the incredible track “Piña”. How did that collaboration come about?
Yeah, we became friends through the internet and have developed a beautiful friendship. I love her tenacity and unapologetic nature so much—so she shared this track w me and it was an easy yes, I wrote my verse, hopped on the track and we made a beautiful video capturing the gayness of it all; it was a really dope experience.
How important is it for you that queer events like The Dinah be preserved & continue to thrive?
It’s very important, especially in a world that refuses to accept our existence. Especially spaces that celebrate and cultivate W/W connection. I think they will always thrive cause we’ve always been here and always will be but it’s so important legacy spaces such as The Dinah are like you said preserved so they can continue to thrive.
Can you share a bit about your upcoming projects. I am currently working on my first album but have no official date or anything yet.
Is there a question you wish I had asked you and didn’t. And why?
No, this was great, thank you.
For more information about The Dinah visit: www.TheDinah.com
Photo credit: Munachi Osegbu @munachiosegbu
Makeup: @jaime.creates
Styling: @monica__murillo
Hair: @nathanieldezan
LGBTQ people are among the many subgroups of Americans known to experience high rates of food insecurity.*
*The Williams Institute
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert provides food for 30,000+ people annually.
BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER
The cake’s going to be magnificent.
You must’ve tasted fifteen different samples and a dozen frostings and considered five unique looks before settling on a showstopper. Next, you must get invitations addressed and in the mail. You must confirm the tuxes. You must get flowers and centerpieces ordered. As in “The Guncle Abroad” by Steven Rowley,” you must get everyone on-board.
Patrick O’Hara couldn’t believe how his life had changed.
A few short years ago, he was living in Palm Springs, having “retired” from making films. He was in love, happy, and he had temporary custody of his niece, Maisie, and his nephew, Grant. Life was good.
Now... oh boy. Patrick and Emory had split-ish (Emory was still living in Patrick’s California home), Patrick was living in Manhattan, making a movie in London, looking for another role soon, and the kids were four years older. Maisie was an attitudinal teen now; Grant was nine and too wise for his age.
They weren’t the cuddly kids Patrick once knew – especially since their dad, Patrick’s brother, Greg, was getting married again and the kids didn’t like Livia, their wealthy socialite stepmom-to-be. Patrick suspected it was because Grant and Maisie still missed their Mom. It hadn’t been all that long since Sara died. Was a new marriage an insult to old memories?
Patrick didn’t think so, and he’d prove it. While Greg and Livia were last-minute wedding-planning, he bought three Eurail passes, one for him and one each for the kids. He’d give them some culture and some new Guncle rules about love. Maybe – was it possible? –he’d even become their favorite GUP again.
But Maisie and Grant had other ideas. They agreed to go on the stupid trip around Europe with their GUP, if Patrick agreed to talk to Greg about calling off the entire wedding. Something old (memories), something new (stepmother), something borrowed (trouble), and something blue (two kids) just had to be undone, and soon.
There’s an old saying, to paraphrase, that if the wedding is perfectly smooth, the marriage won’t be. With this in mind, “The Guncle Abroad” is covered: add a snarky lesbian with an entourage, a tipsy sister on a manhunt, a Lothario who doesn’t speak English, and lost love, all at a lakeside hotel, and yeah, we’re good.
But here’s the thing: author Steven Rowley doesn’t just make
readers laugh. We’re covered on that part, too, because the whole pre-wedding scene in this book is pure chaos and LOL funny. Long before that, though, you’ll be charmed by Rowley’s main character and his desperation to stay relevant, to avoid-not-avoid love, and by his efforts to connect with his brother’s kids. And after the not-sostorybook wedding, well, you know how those things are.
Bring tissues, that’s all you need to know.
If you’re in need of a rom com this summer, just bring the bubbly, pop a cork, and make it this one. Reading “The Guncle Abroad” is best for beach, bench, or back yard. Loving it? Piece of cake.
“The Guncle Abroad” by Steven Rowley. c.2024, Putnam / $29.00. 307 pages
BY JOHN HERNANDEZ EIC BEAR WORLD MAGAZINE
The Bear World Magazine Awards 2024 , presented by BIKE Athletic took place at the Crown & Anchor on July 15th during Bear Week Provincetown.
Tons of stars from the bear and wider LGBTQ community came out to celebrate our best and brightest bears in our community and the video of the night just premiered on our YouTube channel. If you missed it, watch it over at www.youtube.com/@bearworldtv
It truly was ‘the most glittering night of the year’ for bears, as proclaimed by Payton St. James, who along with our editor in chief, John Hernandez co- hosted the event. And with appearances from the likes of Drew Sebastian, Big Dipper, Joel Someone, King Dwarf, Stan Chris and a red carpet hosted by none other than the force of nature that is Meatball, it’s easy to see why.
The Awards also featured appearances from heavy hitters in the bear community like Nino Eilets, co-producer of International Bear Convergence, and Jonathan Hawkins, the owner of Provincetown’s Crown & Anchor and the creator or Prouder Together, the charity organization which the Awards benefitted via ticket sales.
Matt Alber, the two-time Grammy Award winning heartthrob, was on hand to give a showstopping acoustic performance during the show which absolutely delighted the audience filled with our wonderful nominees, winners, bear lovers and even beloved Drag Race superstar Nina West.
Twelve awards were given out, voted on by you, our readers, except for our Bear World Trailblazer and Icon awards (given to Dan Jiménez and Les K Wright, respectively) which were selected by the editorial staff.
So, without further ado, the winners of the 2024 Bear World Magazine Awards are…
Favorite Bear Event: Lazy Bear Week
Favorite Bear Club Night: Bears Night Out, NYC
Favorite Bear Bar: Ty’s, NYC
Favorite Bear Personality: Tony Randel
Favorite Bear Musician: Tom Goss
Favorite Bear Artist: Joshua Pangborn
Favorite Bear Retailer: Sugar Plump Fairy
Favorite Bear Gogo: Hunter Harden
Favorite Bear Adult Studio: Stocky Dudes
Favorite Bear Adult Performer: Jack Dixon
The evening was punctuated by acceptance speeches that were memorable, funny, poignant and heartwarming. The hosts did a great job of keeping things moving while entertaining the enthusiastic crowd with the assistance of trophy cubs Ner and Juicy Jay.
It was an evening to remember and has been so well received that Bear World Magazine has been invited back to the Crown next year to do it all again! Watch this space for more information and details as they unfold.
Of course, the event would not have been possible without our amazing sponsors. Special thanks to BIKE Athletic who sponsored both the Awards and the official After Party which featured a high energy performance by Big Dipper and beats by Calagna.
Our thanks as well go to UBI Telehealth, our media sponsor Growlr, MistRBear, Bear Pride Cruise, All Out Vacations and of course the Crown & Anchor. It was a night we’ll never forget!
Originally Published on www.BearWorldMag.com
BY JOSH LEFFERSON
Travis Holp is the Guncle (gay uncle) of the Spirit world. “I always tell it like it is,” the psychic medium says, “but I’m careful to deliver information with kindness, joy, and hope.”
With close to 300 thousand followers on Instagram and 500 thousand on Tik Tok, Travis is known on social media as the Warrior Unicorn – a nod to his fighting spirit toward LGBTQ and mental health awareness issues, combined with his effervescent personality. He connects with those who have passed over and delivers messages to their loved ones in the physical world. It’s a unique gift that he says he has always had the power to do.
“My first known experiences with the spirit world were when I was very young. As a kid, I was always drawn to movies and books with magical themes. My grandmother and I used to use a Ouija board, and I remember having many conversations with spirits as a child. I
didn’t connect the dots until my early/mid-twenties when a Psychic validated for me that I was, in fact, a person who could connect with those in Spirit. He explains more from his home in Washington State.
How did you grow to become a Gay Uncle who knows a lot of shit?
That was entirely by accident. I was posting these channeled messages on TikTok and Instagram, and it didn’t feel authentic to say, “Spirit has this message for you.” I am an actual uncle to two amazing boys, and I thought, “If my nephews came to me asking for advice on life and love, what would I say while still being who I am?” And I felt nudged to say, “If you don’t believe in mediums, just consider me your gay uncle who knows a lot of shit.” I feel like it helps people ease into the message if they don’t believe it or are skeptical of the work that I do. And just like that, now I have thousands of nieces and nephews all over the world.
How do you prepare for a reading, and what do you do to ensure that you are in the right state of mind to connect with spirit?
For me, it’s important that I raise my vibration before readings so I can receive messages as clearly as possible. I love meditation for this. I do an exercise called “sitting in the power.” This helps me expand my energy and blend with spirit. It calms my nervous system and helps me be the clearest channel I can be. I also love a little mini dance party. Stevie Nicks, Tina Turner, or Taylor Swift are usually my go-to artists.
What is the process like when you connect with spirit? Can you describe what you see, hear, or feel?
When I open to spirit, I usually feel an energy building in my solar plexus (gut area), followed by getting very hot and sweaty even though I’m sitting still. When that happens, I know someone, a loved one, or a guide is ready for a chat. From there, I ease into the energy. I “see,” “hear,” and “feel,” so spirit will use those senses to give me an impression of who they are, information about them or my client, and what messages they came to share.
How do you differentiate between messages from spirits and your own thoughts or intuition?
Imprints from spirit are always very neutral, nonjudgmental, and direct. My own personal thoughts can be quite the opposite, depending on the day. That is one of the biggest lessons mediums learn, tuning out ego, doubt and fear and letting love flow.
What has been the most profound or memorable reading you have ever conducted, and why did it impact you so deeply?
Every reading has had an impact on me one way or another. I am always amazed at how spirit shows up to remind their loved ones that they are still here in the physical world and that they are watching over them. Just last week, I was reading for a client, and her dad, who is in spirit, congratulated her on winning an award. At the time, she wasn’t aware of any awards he would be bringing up in her session. Almost 10 minutes after the session, this client reached out to let me know that while we were on our call, her husband called her to let her know that she had won an award! It was truly a wonderful reminder that our loved ones are a lot closer than we think.
How do you handle skepticism or disbelief from clients or the public?
I let people be where they are. I’m a believer that where our attention goes, our energy flows. I choose to focus on sharing my work, and if someone resonates with it, that’s amazing. And if they don’t, that’s ok too. I’m not here to convince anyone of anything. I am here to be a channel for those in non-physical.
Can you share some common misconceptions about psychic mediums that you would like to clarify?
Every psychic medium works differently, and I think that’s beautiful but also is misunderstood. We all have our own way of doing things, which I think is a good thing. We also do not predict the future. I believe everyone has free will, and while we can read the energy of where someone is on their path and how to align with the energy of what they want, ultimately, life is up to the client.
How do you protect your own energy and well-being when dealing with intense or emotional readings?
This is where healthy, energetic boundaries come into practice. In a session when I’m channeling, I’m delivering information in an evidential, non-biased way. My job is to hold space for the energy, not to be the energy. I also have a deal with spirit that I won’t remember readings after I’ve completed a day of readings. That’s in my own best interest. If something great comes through in a reading, I must be quick to write it down or it’s gone.
What advice would you give to someone who believes they might have psychic abilities but is unsure how to develop or control them?
If it’s in the budget, find a mentor or take a class. Otherwise, simply buy a book on psychic development. For me, developing my psychic and mediumistic ability has also helped me grow as a person.
What role do ethics play in your work, and how do you ensure that you are providing helpful and respectful guidance to your clients?
My ethical standards are high. No talk of predicting death, disease, partners cheating, or telling folks to get divorced. In a reading I provide as much evidential information as I can, so things like loved ones in spirits names, important dates, etc. Guidance absolutely comes through, but I find the guidance is always in the highest good of the person I’m reading for. It’s always nonjudgmental, incredibly loving, and it’s usually what the client needs to hear.
Learn more at travisholp.com.
PHOTOS BY MELISSA STONE OF BRAZEN HOUSE STUDIOS
BY TOM TIETJEN
Outsports, part of the LGBTQ-owned and operated media company Q.Digital, and the leading voice in LGBTQ sports, is proud to announce the launch of “Outsports’ Team LGBTQ,” the most extensive database and in-depth coverage of out LGBTQ athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Summer Games. The number of athletes on “Outsports’ Team LGBTQ” for Summer 2024 is 144 and counting. Some of the higher-profile athletes include American track and field athletes Sha’Carri Richardson, Raven Saunders, Nikkie Hiltz and Nico Young; American basketball players Diana Taurasi, Breanna Stewart and Brittney Griner; and American BMX Freestyle riders Hannah Roberts and Perris Benegas. British diver Tom Daley will compete in his fifth Games, and Brazil’s legendary soccer player
Marta will compete in her sixth. Canada’s soccer player Quinn returns as the rare trans and nonbinary athlete (along with Hiltz), competing in soccer.
“As the world’s attention turns to Paris, Outsports celebrates the participation and achievements of the out-LGBTQ athletes who will be competing,” says Cyd Zeigler, co-founder of Outsports. “We are excited to shine a spotlight on these incredible individuals and share their stories with the world.”
This year, at least 24 countries, including the Refugee Team, are represented by at least one publicly out athlete in 32 sports. Once
again, The United States has the most out athletes at the Olympics, with 28, about a fifth of all the attendees on the list. Team USA is followed in the number of publicly out LGBTQ athletes by Brazil (22), Australia (17), Great Britain (10), and Germany (9).
Women on the list outnumber men by about a 7 to 1 margin, with women’s soccer having the most out athletes of any sports, with more than 30 out players.
“These athletes are a testament to the tremendous progress the LGBTQ community has made, in sports and society at large, in many parts of the world,” says Outsports co-founder Jim Buzinski.
He acknowledges, however, that the battle is not yet won. In many countries participating in the Games, just walking down the street, or holding a Pride parade, as an LGBTQ person is illegal. “We hope our list of athletes on Team LGBTQ inspires people across the world, including in countries where being out is extremely difficult, to keep going,” Buzinski adds.
In addition to hosting the largest and most detailed database of out Olympians and Paralympians – with bios, achievements, and personal stories that highlight their athletic prowess and unique
journeys – Outsports will continue to publish exclusive interviews with the athletes and in-depth features on their contributions to sports and the LGBTQ community.
Outsports will also provide real-time coverage and updates throughout the Games, ensuring fans stay informed about the latest achievements and milestones. Coverage will span a wide range of content, including feature stories, video interviews, and social media highlights.
Founded in 1999, Outsports is the internet’s first community covering LGBTQ+ issues and personalities in amateur and professional sports. Earlier this year, Q.Digital, announced the acquisition of Outsports from Vox Media’s SB Nation.
“’Outsports’ Team LGBTQ’ is the go-to resource for fans, athletes and allies seeking to follow the journeys of LGBTQ competitors at the Games,” Zeigler said. “As part of its unparalleled coverage and a commitment to inclusivity, Outsports’ Team LGBTQ promises to inspire and engage audiences around the globe.”
For more information and to follow the coverage, visit www.outsports.com connect on social media using the hashtag #TeamLGBTQ.
BY DANIEL HIRSCH
Every year, World Hepatitis Day is marked on July 28. It’s an occasion to raise awareness about the spread and prevention of the disease. Given that the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that more than 354 million people live with either hepatitis B or C, and that roughly 4.5 million premature deaths could be prevented by 2030 through education, vaccination, testing, and treatment, it’s a very good thing to know about.
I spoke with DAP Health Director of Infectious Diseases Dr. Shubha Kerkar about what can be done to slow the spread of hepatitis, and why some forms of it are dubbed “the silent killer.” With three decades of experience fighting infectious disease, Dr. Kerkar is intimate with the complex factors involved in ending pandemics.
Why is hepatitis serious?
Untreated viral hepatitis B or C causes three things: liver failure, liver cirrhosis (permanent liver scarring), and liver cancer. Almost always, the number one reason for liver cancer or liver transplant in the U.S. — up until very recently — was hepatitis C-related cirrhosis. Untreated, hepatitis B or C can be fatal.
There are many types of hepatitis — A, B, C, D, E — why focus on types B and C?
Since 1982, hepatitis B has been preventable via a vaccine administered to children before they are two years of age. Still, we have 254 million people living with hepatitis B today. There are certain medicines to control it, but it can still lead to liver cancer. We need to get more people vaccinated, but people have developed tremendous distrust in vaccines over the last few years, so there are challenges.
Hepatitis C was a bigger pandemic until 2015 or so. We are now rapidly able to cure hepatitis C. The burden went down, but currently, 50 million people still live with hepatitis C.
So, of these two viruses, C is curable, and B is preventable. That’s the bottom line.
How does hepatitis C spread?
Primarily through contact with infected blood, which means intravenous drug users are at especially high risk.
However, about 50 to 60% of people who have hepatitis C may not even know it because they’ve never been tested — and there are often no symptoms initially. Over two to four decades, it then slowly scars the liver. Symptoms of liver failure occur when the liver decompensates, and a cure may not save the need for transplant. That’s why it’s known as “the silent killer.”
Because the test was only developed in 1992, hepatitis C has spread all over the world. So regardless of risk factors, baby boomers have a five-fold higher risk of unknowingly having hepatitis C. They need to get tested to see if they have it. Then, we can cure them.
The other thing about hepatitis C is that you can get reinfected after being cured, so it’s important to learn how to stay cured by managing risk factors and avoiding exposure, which led to the infection in the first place.
And hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, but can also spread through contaminated food or water. Most importantly, pregnant-mother-to-child transmission can occur during labor.
What can be done to stop the spread?
I have been treating and trying to cure hepatitis C since 1996. From 1996 to 2015, there was a 35 to 45 % cure rate. However, since the newer medications — which are easy to tolerate without any side effects — the cure rate is nearly 100%. So, the easiest part of treating hepatitis C is getting people tested so they know they have it, then linking them to care.
Hepatitis B is preventable via vaccine, yet I do manage several patients who have hepatitis B. It is treatable but prevention is best.
To eliminate viral hepatitis, we need education, prevention, screening, and linkage to care. Here in the Coachella Valley, DAP Health has been doing a lot of free testing.
For both hepatitis B and C, elimination and cure are the goals. Eliminate hep B by vaccination. Eliminate hep C by widespread testing and linkage to care, and cure those who have it with treatment.
For free hepatitis C testing, please contact one of DAP Health’s three sexual wellness clinics — in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, or Indio.
To be tested for other forms of the disease, for vaccination, or for treatment, please see your primary care physician — at DAP Health or elsewhere.
And to learn more about individual types of the disease, read below.
The ABCDEs of Hepatitis
Each type of hepatitis has unique transmission methods, symptoms, potential for chronic infection, and prevention strategies. Read on…
Hepatitis A (HAV)
• Transmission: Fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water.
• Symptoms: Acute illness with jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and fever.
• Chronicity: Does not become chronic.
• Prevention: Vaccination and good hygiene.
Hepatitis B (HBV)
• Transmission: Blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during childbirth.
• Symptoms: Acute and chronic liver disease. Can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
• Chronicity: Can become chronic.
• Prevention: Vaccination prevents infection
Hepatitis C (HCV)
• Transmission: Blood, primarily through sharing needles or blood transfusions. Tattoos
• Symptoms: Often asymptomatic initially, it can lead to chronic liver disease.
• Chronicity: Often becomes chronic.
• Prevention: No vaccine but avoid sharing needles and ensure safe blood products.
• Cure: Can be easily cured, but cure does not give immunity.
Hepatitis D (HDV)
• Transmission: Blood, similar to HBV; requires HBV for replication.
• Symptoms: Similar to HBV but more severe liver disease.
• Chronicity: Can become chronic.
• Prevention: HBV vaccination (since HDV requires HBV to propagate).
Hepatitis E (HEV)
• Transmission: Fecal-oral route, similar to HAV, often through contaminated water.
• Symptoms: Acute liver disease with jaundice, fever, and abdominal pain.
• Chronicity: Rarely becomes chronic.
• Prevention: Good sanitation and hygiene practices; vaccination.
BY JACKI ST. THOMAS
Vanishing Angle is thrilled to unveil the stellar cast for their groundbreaking new horror comedy, Queens of the Dead, directed by Tina Romero, daughter of the legendary George A. Romero, and co-written by Erin Judge & Tina Romero. This film pays tribute to the iconic Romero zombie with a fresh, contemporary, and queer twist. It features an ensemble of exceptional talent poised to deliver a genresmashing, glam-gore thrill ride through the zombie apocalypse.
The film features an impressive ensemble including Katy O’Brian (Love Lies Bleeding, Twisters), Margaret Cho (Fire Island), Nina West (Rupaul’s Drag Race, Weird: the Al Yankovic Story), Brigette Lundy-Paine (I Saw The TV Glow, Bill & Ted Face the Music), Jaquel Spivey (Mean Girls), Cheyenne Jackson (American Horror Story, Werewolves Within), Tomas Matos (Fire Island, Fantasmas), Quincy Dunn-Baker (No Hard Feelings, The Righteous Gemstones), Becca Blackwell (Bros, Marriage Story), Shaunette Renée Wilson (Black Panther, Billions), Dominique Jackson (Pose), Riki Lindhome (Knives Out, Wednesday), and Eve Lindley (Bros). The film is produced by Vanishing Angle’s Matthew Lee Miller and Natalie Metzger. Financing provided by Creativity Capital.
George A. Romero, often referred to as the “Godfather of Zombies,” revolutionized the horror genre with his groundbreaking films Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead. His work has influenced countless filmmakers and has become a cornerstone of modern horror. The announcement of a new Romero zombie film, directed by his daughter Tina, is a momentous occasion for horror fans worldwide. Tina Romero carries the torch with this talent-rich film loaded with practical effects, jump scares, laughs, and lumbering zombies amassing on the streets of Brooklyn.
Director Tina Romero shared her excitement about the cast: “This is the cast of my wildest dreams. In a movie about survival, you gotta love and root for the survival crew. Every single person in this ensemble brings such a special and specific flavor -both on and off screen. The result is truly a magic sauce.”
Matthew Lee Miller echoed Tina’s enthusiasm, saying: “As soon as we started casting, we knew we needed a team that could deliver on the film’s bold, eclectic vision. This cast exceeds our wildest expectations. Their combined talent and chemistry are electrifying. Tina’s vision is a game-changer, and we believe this ensemble will create something truly unforgettable, honoring the Romero legacy while pushing the boundaries of the genre.”
Natalie Metzger added: “I’ve been obsessed with this script and Tina’s vision from the moment that I read it. It’s so incredibly fun and unique. This film is not just a continuation of the Romero legacy but a fresh take that is sure to captivate a new generation of horror fans”.
Queens of the Dead follows an eclectic group of drag queens, club kids, and frenemies who must put aside their personal dramas and use their unique skills to combat the brain-thirsty undead when a zombie apocalypse breaks out in Brooklyn during their drag show in Brooklyn.
With its powerhouse cast and visionary direction, Queens of the Dead is poised to be one of the most talked-about films of the year. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project and be ready to join the conga line through the apocalypse. For media inquiries, interviews, and exclusive content, contact pr@vanishingangle.com
Tina Romero is a filmmaker based in Brooklyn, NY. After earning her BA in Cinema Studies at Wellesley College, she attended the NYU Tisch Graduate Film program, where she won the Warner Brothers Film Award for accomplishments in filmmaking. Her short films (Little Girl Blue and Rainbowarrior) and music videos have featured internationally at the Melbourne International Film Festival, the Winnipeg Magical Feminism Exhibition, and the Accolade Global Film Competition. Her feature script, The Lost Girls, was a finalist for the Sundance Screenwriter’s Lab. In 2018, Tina collaborated with Tom Savini as a guest director for the web series Flicker. Tina’s greatest influence, in film and in life, is her father, George A. Romero. She serves as Vice President of the GARF Foundation, honoring his work and his legacy.
Vanishing Angle is a full-service production studio dedicated to nurturing the freshest voices in the independent film community. Recent releases include the Yogi Berra documentary It Ain’t Over on Netflix, and Werewolves Within and The Beta Test on Hulu. Their Tribeca title The Secret Art of Human Flight also had a theatrical release this July.
Vanishing Angle has produced award-winning films and series that have premiered and been recognized at major festivals such as Sundance, Tribeca, SXSW, Berlinale, and Cannes. Their notable films include The Secret Art of Human Flight, Cold Wallet, Werewolves Within, It Ain’t Over, Greener Grass, Thunder Road, Beast Beast, The Beta Test, The Grief of Others, and A Bread Factory. Vanishing Angle’s work has received Spirit Award nominations, a Grand Jury Prize at SXSW, and recognition at Fantastic Fest. For more information, visit www.vanishingangle.com
BY EILEEN BREEN
Dezart Performs continues to build on its past successes of fearless, provocative, and inspiring theatre with Season 17. The season opens with the 2019 Broadway political dark comedy HILLARY AND CLINTON by Lucas Hnath (November 15 - 24, 2024). Next is the 2022 Pulitzer Prize winner FAT HAM, a modern-day Hamlet by James Ijames (January 17 - 26, 2025). The season continues with the Off-Broadway hit drama GRAND CONCOURSE by award-winning playwright Heidi Schreck (February 28 - March 9, 2025). Finishing the season is the Tony Award-winning musical FALSETTOS (April 18-27, 2025), written by William Finn and James Lapine with music and lyrics by Finn.
“I am thrilled about the upcoming 2024/25 season as it promises to offer a diverse range of experiences, from moments of laughter and intense drama to introspective reflection and impactful storytelling,” expresses Michael Shaw, the Artistic Director of Dezart Performs. “After a successful past season where we saw a significant number of first-time attendees, we eagerly look forward to sharing these exceptional performances with our dedicated longtime supporters and newly welcomed audience members.”
New Season subscriptions on sale now; Individual ticket purchases go on sale September 13, 2024.
All performances take place at the Pearl McManus Theater (at the historic Palm Springs Woman’s Club), 314 S. Cahuilla Road, Downtown Palm Springs. Ticket prices are $57 – $66 (including service fees) and may be purchased online at www.dezartperforms.org or by calling (760) 322-0179. Showtimes are Fridays at 7:00 pm; Saturdays at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm and 7:00
pm. The Opening Night performance includes an after-show wine and dessert reception where audience members may meet the performers.
Tickets: www.dezartperforms.org, or call (760) 322-0179.
Dezart Performs, one of the Coachella Valley’s preeminent theatre companies, recognizes that the performing arts enrich the life and culture of a community, promote greater understanding, and provoke insightful discussion. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit theatre company, its mission is to provide an artistic home for bold and cutting–edge plays, creating an atmosphere of artistic growth for actors, writers, and directors who uniquely contribute to the diverse theatrical environment in the Coachella Valley.
In December 2023, Dezart Performs announced plans for a new space to be called the Dezart Playhouse, located in Cathedral City. The new Dezart Playhouse will have versatile, movable seating for up to 125, including the flexibility for proscenium, thrust, theatre-in-theround, or cabaret-style formats. A modern, warm, and inviting lobby with a full bar and patio area will be available during performances and other non-theatrical events. The design includes expanded dressing rooms, backstage areas, and a designated box office. Besides being used by Dezart Performs, the venue will also welcome other businesses and non-profit organizations in the community to make use of the space. The Dezart Playhouse will be ready for the 2025 / 2026 Season based on the current plan. The campaign has been in the silent phase for over a year, with the goal to raise $ 2,200,000 to convert the former retail space into a state-of-the-art Equity Theater. In addition, the campaign seeks another $200,000 per year over five years to help sustain program and operation costs.
BY BOB BOGARD
H3K Home+Design, a Palm Springs-based design firm with showrooms in Palm Springs and Palm Desert, specializing in the remodeling and renovation of residential and commercial properties, will offer three exciting “Wine & Design” events each month this summer in their two Coachella Valley showrooms. Offered on a Thursday night, each monthly event will feature a 30-minute panel discussion about the design topic and include an audience Q&A session. The panel will be hosted by H3K Home+Design Owner’s Howard Hawkes and Kevin Kemper and the panel will feature H3K’s Interior Design Team – Travis Smith, Kathleen Friedle and Brian Wolbaum. Attendees may enjoy complimentary wine and appetizers before and after the talk. In addition, an in-showroom event special on merchandise will be offered at each event, where participants will be able to purchase anything on the show floor for 20% off at the showroom where the event is taking place. This offer applies only between 4 – 6 pm. These events are open to the public and do not require an RSVP.
“We created these free Wine & Design events to showcase the existing interior design talent in the Coachella Valley and provide helpful hints for people who are planning to incorporate
a midcentury modern design motif into their homes,” said Howard Hawkes, H3K Home+Design co-founder. “We are very excited to share these easy-to-implement tips with our customers and look forward to sharing H3K’s vision.”
August 22, 4 – 6 pm at the Palm Springs showroom, located at 501 South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs
Topic: Small Changes for Big Impact – Tips on making your space pop!
• Pillow Talk: Accessorizing with throw pillows.
• Creating themed rooms.
• WOW rooms with Wallpaper.
September 26, 4 – 6 pm, at the Palm Desert showroom, located at 74180 CA-111 in Palm Desert
Topic: Mid Century Modern Mix – How to reflect your MCM style!
• What exactly is Mid Century Modern?
• Mixing MCM with other styles.
• The latest trends in MCM design.
For more information about H3K Home+Design, its services and products, visit h3khomeanddesign.com or call (760) 325-5400.
BY JILL LANGHAM
Are you surviving the longest heat wave of at least this century? Just when will see blue skies and temperatures under 100 Degrees? The air quality has been horrific and the dew point and humidity a bear, and not the lovable Bears that we are so used to here in the valley!
Enough said as there are many other things to focus on at this critical time in our lives. Not to beat a dead horse (or a not so dead presidential candidate) but I did have to ask myself just where my humanity had gone when like millions of others whose first thought was a wish that the kid killer hadn’t missed. How did neutralizing someone or murdering them become the norm in our world? I’m honestly not naïve enough to believe that people didn’t think this way in the past, but I think I wanted to believe that it came from oppressed people, or third world countries where the education of humanity was less important than daily survival. Or that we are all good and it’s only a small percentage of people that actually think that way, but today I think that huge numbers of people would have been totally happy had the killer succeeded and that terrifies me.
I have mentioned in past articles my obsession with reading books, non-fiction and fiction alike about the women who played huge roles during WWII, aiding the Resistance. They fought against the madman, AH, no need to spell out the rest of his atrocious name, and who often led thousands of men into battle.
One of the bravest of all these women was Nancy Wake, an Australian, who fought for the SOE of Britain and who is said to have been one of the most highly decorated women of that war receiving over 14 medals and titles for her bravery. She was known as the White Mouse, and she wrote an autobiography by the same name, if you should be interested in reading more about her.
I mention her now since as of Sunday, July 21, 2024, Kamala Harris was endorsed by President Biden to replace him on the ballot in a groundbreaking move that may just be the winning ticket and opportunity for America ( I no longer refer to us as the United States, because we are far from United) to elect its first woman President! A leader, a teacher and a role model for women is what I believe has been missing for a very long time here in America.
I am hoping for the very best outcome and want to believe that there are enough women, of all colors who will back Kamala this
in this world, but it appears that the younger girls and young women use them as their role models and that scares me more than anything!
BY JOSH LEFFERSON
Pandora Boxx’s new dance album, BOXX, is her most personal work ever. It’s fun and quirky, and while most of her previous releases were a tad on the dirty side, BOXX is totally PG. Pandora wrote all the tracks and admits to having a soft spot for them all. She’s drawn to the single ‘Pill’ because the song combines a rock vibe meshed with one of her favorite stories, Alice in Wonderland, and depicts some real-life struggles she has faced as an adult. “I also really love ‘Stars’ because it is a tribute to Star Trek and is about me as a kid, dreaming that I could travel to the stars.” There is also “Raspberries,” Pandora’s ode to Carol Channing that marks her farewell to the impersonation she famously performed on Rupaul’s Drag Race; and “Gay”, her response to Governor DeSantis’ horrific Don’t Say Gay legislation. Then, of course, there is “Dance”, the album’s first release that Pandora penned for the little boy she was: mercilessly picked on at school, who would come home, lock his bedroom door, flip on a Madonna cd and dance his troubles away. “Dance is a song for everyone,” Pandora explains. “It encourages people not to pay any mind to what others think and to dance like no one is watching.” Pandora Boxx’s BOXX is available on streaming platforms, along with its first single “Dance”. The Dance music video is on YouTube.
“I have loved music since I was a kid. It was often my escape from the world,” Pandora Boxx continues from her home in Los Angeles. “Sometimes the world becomes too much and too cruel. When I was younger, it was bold and fabulous pop stars like Cyndi Lauper and Boy George who made me think being different was not just ok but something to cherish.”
Pandora Boxx was born Michael R. Steck in Jamestown, NY. She grew up with her mom, dad and younger sister and recalls her childhood being a mixed bag of nuts. “My mom was wonderful. My father, not so much.”
She knew she wanted to be an artist since she was five years old when she, as Michael, won a greeting card contest. His design was made into an Easter card and sold in stores! It was a drawing of young Michael walking his rabbit on a leash (which he actually did). The card read: Get into the Easter habit, go out and walk your rabbit.
In the fifth grade, Michael wrote a play called “The Trouble with Christmas” and performed it for his entire school. His mother even directed it! Michael recalls always creating and dreaming. After the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, he knew he was supposed to be on the show. “It was just a strong gut feeling. I had interviewed RuPaul years before Drag Race and at the end of the interview Ru said, ‘I hope I come across you in my travels.’ In my head, I said, oh you will.” For season two, Michael, as Pandora, made the best audition video she could, and it worked.
Pandora Boxx placed fifth in the second season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, winning the title of Miss Congeniality. She subsequently returned for the first and sixth seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. Boxx has also appeared in all three seasons of the show’s spin-off series, RuPaul’s Drag U.
“I think some people may realize after listening to BOXX that I am much more than the Pandora that they’ve seen on television,” the artist reflects. “The first show aired in 2010, and I’m not even the same person I was then. Back then, I didn’t talk about my relationship because he didn’t sign up for all that. We’ve been together for almost 19 years, and he’s always been there for me. Ian is my rock.”
“I think I’m at a point where I’m ready to branch out and try new things and other avenues,” Pandora continues. She has also been doing some internal work and therapy. “I think healing yourself
can make your mind more open to create better artistry. I try to be more thankful of opportunities I have enjoyed and not focus on what other people have. This album has been a journey and I’m excited for people to listen to it.”
Brandon James Gwinn produced all the tracks on BOXX except for the songs “Swish” and “Hey”, which were produced by Electropoint. The album is executive produced by Michael R. Steck, Parvesh Cheena, Amelia Black and Bruce Peters.
“I’m dedicating this album to anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t belong,” Pandora Boxx adds. “For all those weirdos like me, who buck the norm and are true to themselves. Also, to everyone who believed in my artistry, especially Brandon James Gwinn, my producer, without whom this album wouldn’t be what it is.”
Pandora Boxx’s BOXX and its first single “Dance” are available on streaming platforms.
Photos By David Laffe
Visit https://pandoraboxx.com.
Follow Pandora Boxx on Instagram @ pandoraboxx
BY CHRIS FRAGNITO
“People often ask me why I changed my name from Sir JET to Queen Sir JET,” the genderfluid, muscle fem pop singer reflects. “Like, what exactly do I think I’m the queen of?”
“I’m not a queen because I think I’m fierce, or because I’m the ruler of a certain population,” she continues. “I think I use the word ‘queen’ in the sense of being the master of something. I am the queen of sadness. I’ve mastered sadness and solitude, and my songs reflect that.”
She has learned to embrace life’s sadness, the same way she embraces life’s joy, and Queen Sir JET hopes her new single, “Stay with Me,” inspires listeners to do the same. We spoke with Queen Sir JET from her home in Los Angeles.
What inspired you to write and record “Stay with Me”?
A lot of my songs start with a phrase I hear while listening to the base track, or sometimes I’ll hear a phrase while listening to another artist’s song. In this case after a few weeks of listening to the track my producer sent me, I started hearing “shadows want me to know,
that I’m not alone,” and little by little the song became about my own experiences with dating. I’ve never had a relationship, but all too many times I’ve experienced that wanting to be in a relationship, but never quite reaching that level of connection with another person.
That’s heartbreaking.
The song is about recognizing that not everything in one’s life must be sunshine and rainbows. We can have a dark side; we can romanticize our sadness and indulge in negative feelings if the mood feels right. Emotions are all temporary, so there’s no shame in giving in to feelings of loneliness from time to time. We can be happy later and fully feel our feelings now. I tend to be a lone wolf myself, so this song is my way of coming to terms with the fact that I might always be. In other words, I’m ok with my own loneliness.
This is your first track that is not a dance number. It’s a mid-tempo song, but like most of my songs, it’s electronic.
At the time, I was sending my producer examples of tracks from my favorite Erasure album, Nightbird. Songs like “No Doubt,” and “Here I Go Impossible Again.” I wanted to do at least one mid-tempo song for the upcoming EP and those songs were the inspiration.
Are the questions you ask in the song - like “Am I good person?” - questions that you ask yourself in real-life?
I do sometimes wonder if I am a good person. Did I say the wrong thing to that person? Should I have given more when I saw they were hurting? The list goes on and on. I’m a socially awkward person, and despite being empathetic, I don’t always know how to put into words the energy I’m sensing from that other person in the moment, so then I’m asking myself later, did I say/do the right thing? And when it comes to other people, so often a lot of us don’t know how to give of ourselves emotionally in the same way we give of ourselves physically. It’s easier to give your body than it is your emotional help. And so that’s where that line came from, the questioning if I’m a bad person because all too often all I give is my body, when what many people need isn’t sexual gratification but rather an empathetic hand.
Have you experienced a lot of hurt in life?
I don’t know if “hurt” is the right word, but definitely a great deal of rejection. I was the quintessential bullied kid as a youth,
which lead to having no friends as a teenager. From there I never really developed social skills so as an adult, people often think I’m odd and off putting. I was criticized to shreds by the gay media for being unoriginal in the early stages of my career, and then I was too different to be relatable once I came into my own during the mid-point of my career when I started cross-dressing. It’s been an undying pattern throughout my life: “you’re just not what we’re looking for.” I think that was where this song came from: when you’ve been told so many times that you don’t belong anywhere you go, you eventually break and end up alone, constantly trying to understand your own loneliness.
What do you hope fans ultimately take away from “Stay with Me”?
If you can learn to embrace the sadness and the loneliness in the same way you embrace the joys and triumphs in life, you will know what it means to be alive.
Queen Sir JET’s “Stay with Me” is being distributed by So Fierce Music and is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and all digital platforms. Follow Queen Sir Jet on Tik Tok and Instagram.
Photos courtesy So Fierce Music
BY MICHEL KHORDOC
Latvian-born, New York based singer/songwriter and fashion model Keeana Kee is set to release her newest single and video “TIK TOK” on July 17th, 2024.
“TIK TOK” was written for an individual who procrastinates and is hesitant when making life changes. It reminds you to make all choices yourself and don’t let anyone influence your decision. It inspires you to not listen to anyone and just be yourself.
“They try and control everything that we own but body and mind is your zone. Don’t be afraid to be yourself.” - sings Keeana.
A unique melody and captivating lyrics were created by Keeana Kee over the infectious beats made by the talented beatmaker Dedov. The music video for the contagiously catchy single was shot in the South of France and takes viewers into the golden hour’s sunset and the beautiful scenery of the streets of Antibes. A visually stunning piece that complements the music perfectly as we watch the stunningly gorgeous Keeana dancing barefoot on the street of the old city, joined by the nomadic Brazilian capoeira dancers and musicians.
“Whether you’re dancing at a beach party, chilling by the pool, or just soaking up the sun, “TIK TOK” is the track you need on repeat. The catchy chorus will have you singing along all day long!” – Indieboulevard.com
The single is already taking social media by storm sparking a massive trend with the hashtag #TikTokkeeanakee and #keeanakeetiktok seeing fans and followers across the world posting their own takes of Keeana’s dance moves.
Keeana Kee has made music her vehicle to spread positivity and to encourage people everywhere to do the same. She has been creating diverse music that is a blend of genres including pop, Latin and Afropop. Keeana Kee and her Exotic Pop tunes will make you want to dance on the beach and fall in love. Keeana’s sultry voice and sexy lyrics take the song from day to night, beach to a club and can certainly bring summer to every season.
Find out more about Keeana Kee online on Instagram, TikTok Facebook, X, Spotify, Apple Music, and Soundcloud. Watch the TIK TOK official video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkt8UNtbR-c
#keeanakeeTikTok
BY ILICH MEJIA
Fantasy pop star Boy Blu invites his fans to step into a world where underground bold electro meets Dune-inspired sounds with the release of “Visions,” his latest single and music video, via Sad Magic Records. Produced by Gregory Dillon and featuring anthemic melodies and strong elements of rave music, “Visions” perfectly bridges fantasy with modern queer pop, delivering an infectious, beat-driven track perfect for edgy sci-fi dance enthusiasts.
The song’s lyrics stem from a personal story of abandonment and the haunting pain of being left by a loved one and still seeing them in everything you do and everywhere you go. Inspired by artists who can craft songs with deeply emotional lyrics set against powerful dance tracks, Blu adds, “There’s something poetic about dancing while singing the saddest words. “Visions” embodies this blend perfectly: it makes me want to cry and dance at the same time.”
Boy Blu has also unveiled the music video for “Visions,” out now, which offers an immersive journey into the artist’s sci-fi and popinspired imagination. Directed by Logan Powaski and showcasing choreography by Jesse Fields, the video showcases brutalist aesthetics in its locations and features futuristic, desert-armored clothing with a hint of queer House influence. Blu’s powerful dance performance, coupled with a storyline where he grapples with visions from his past, embodies themes of temptation, desolation and desire.
Boy Blu’s vision is to transport audiences on an immersive & visual journey where fantasy intertwines with melody crafting a unique and memorable experience that resonates across realms of sound. Blu’s recent single “2 Deadly” is fused with sci-fi energy and modern pop star movement to create a bridge between fashion, music and fantasy. Dramatic aesthetics and eccentric sounds are to be expected from the fanatic inspired by artists like Robyn, Grimes, Cobrah and Kerli. Boy Blu is a professional dancer turned singer, songwriter and performer who refuses to stand out of the spotlight anymore.
Connect With Boy Blu: Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music | TikTok | Twitter / X | YouTube
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
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
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