The Standard Magazine

PALM SPRINGS PRIDE 2015 Color Our World With Pride OCTOBER, 2015 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 10 | THESTANDARDPS.COM

CONTENTS VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10

theStandardPS.com twitter.com/theStandardPS DESIGN BY MAYA KALABIC

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ART VIEW

CHUCK GUMPERT PAGE 40 - 41

Volume 3 Issue 10 COVER PALM SPRINGS PRIDE COLOR OUR WORLD WITH PRIDE FEATURE NEXUS RADIO / SAVING THE WORLD ONE DANCE BEAT AT A TIME PSP FOCUS PALM SPRINGS: LET THE SEASON BEGIN ARTVIEW CHUCK GUMBERT / USING MUSIC TO INFLUENCE ART

Chuck Gumpert’s work available at Brian Marki Fine Art & Framing, 170 E. Arenas Road, in downtown Palm Springs. www.brianmarkifineart.com | www.chuckgumpert.com

OCTOBER 2015 3

COMMENTARY

The Standard Magazine 1111 Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760-831-4869 Nino Eilets Publisher Luciano McNulty Editor Maya Kalabic Art Director Photographer David A. Lee Contributors Chris Astrala, Chris Heritage, Lee Lynch, Dennis Mason, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Ken Toth & Rick Zbur www.thestandardps.com Editorial Credits : BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation & Project Publicity 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

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COVER

THE 29 PALM SPRINGS PRIDE COLOR OUR WORLD WITH PRIDE TH

The 29th annual Pride celebration, held November 6-8, 2015 in downtown Palm Springs, will be the largest demonstration of equality and diversity ever seen in the Coachella Valley. Considered to be one of the most scenic Pride celebrations in the world, it’s also home to the largest Pride Festival in Southern California, with attendance expected to pass the 140,000 mark. The Greater Palm Springs Pride Celebration includes a free block party, two-day festival, parade, and twenty-five official events. The celebration follows Palm Springs Leather Pride weekend October 29 – November 1, 2015.

The global theme of this year’s Pride, “Color Our World With Pride” was selected to show support for all LGBTQ people in communities across the globe. The parade and festival provide a platform to reflect on the advances made in the equality movement and raise awareness and stand against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

The Planet by Jetsetter Magazine, named PS Pride as one of the Best 11 Gay Pride Festival Trips. The festival features 120 performances in six, free admission entertainment venues: US Bank stage, Tahquitz stage, the Infusion Beach & Hotel Big-ass amazingly awesome homosexual sheep DJ stage , PNN DJ stage, Pride Stage at HooDoo, Souleil Dance Tent and the Karaoke Stage. The festival will feature full concert performances by 10,000 Maniacs, Frankmusik, the London

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based pop artist, American Idol Finalist & pop artist David Hernandez, Candis Cayne, Los Angeles based synth pop band DWNTWN, DJ Casey Alva, local pop artist Blake Lansing, Avant Americana genrebending good time band the Evangenitals, big beat alternative rock band Lunden Reign, GayC/DC the world’s only all-gay tribute to AC/ DC, and the rising LA-based pop singer/songwriter Wrabel.

Guest DJs will spin from the top of the Infusion Beach & Hotel Bigass amazingly awesome homosexual sheep DJ stage, a 40’ wide, twostory tall DJ stage on Palm Canyon Dr at Baristo. The stage will be home to DJs Nick Ayler, Erick Diaz, DJ Femme A, DJ Jake, Steve Sherwood, DJ Paparazzi, Aaron C, Aly B, Serge P, Coo Ley and DJ Waide.

The Souleil Dance Tent promises a full day of house music with featured DJs Cris Herrera, DJ Ala, Trever Hartung, Olga Arteaga, Mikeytown, CaliParis and Sab. OFFICIAL PALM SPRINGS PRIDE EVENTS Pride Honors Awards: Friday, October 9 (6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.)

The prestigious Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards are presented annually to individuals to honor the work they have put into furthering the causes of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and their allies.

MICHAEL CHILDERS, BRIAN WANZEK, LISA MIDDLETON, MELISSE BANWER, DR. RONNI SANLO & JANET MALACHOWSKY

The prestigious Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards are presented annually to individuals to honor the work they have put into furthering the causes of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and their allies. The awards reception will take place at the Hyatt Palm Springs located at 285 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Honorees include Spirit of Stonewall Lifetime Achievement Awards will be presented to the renowned photographer Michael Childers and human rights activists Melinda Tremaglio. The 2015 Volunteer of the Year is Brian Wanzek (better known as entertainment personality, Bella da BallSM). The Spirit of Stonewall Community Service Award will be presented to Lisa Middleton and the Friend of Pride will be bestowed on Melisse Banwer. The 2015 Special Guest is Dr. Ronni Sanlo and the Spirit of Pride award recipient is Janet Malachowsky. Great Autos of Yesteryear will be recognized for supporting the community for thirty-two years with the Organization of the Year Award.

The awards reception will take place at the Hyatt Palm Springs located at 285 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Halloween Palm Springs: October 31 (6:00-10:00p.m.)

Join thousands of incredible and unique costumed revelers for Halloween on Arenas Rd. in Palm Springs. Bands, DJs and singers along with cash and prizes for the costume contest. From October 26-30 there will be preliminary costume contests at Chill, Spurline, Hunters, Score and Streetbar with cash and prizes valued at over $200 at each contest.

Rainbow Flag Raising: Friday, November 6 (10:00 a.m.)

Free community event. Palm Springs Village Green Community leaders will be joined by civic officials at a flag raising ceremony for a rainbow flag which will fly above the streets in downtown Palm Springs for Pride weekend November 6-8. This event will commemorate the 36th Anniversary of the Rainbow flag and will be the official kickoff to a slate of Pride events and celebrations including the parade and festival.

OUT PSP: A Kick Off to Pride Weekend:

Friday, November 6 (5:00 – 8:00 p.m.)

El Mirador Plaza, 4th Floor Outdoor Patio kick off to Pride weekend with tastings from Coachella Valley’s premier restaurants, bars and beverage purveyors. Drop in and sip on signature cocktails at our open bar while you and your friends watch the sun set behind the San Jacinto Mountains!

Hacienda Cantina and Beach Club Pool Parties: Official Pool Parties of Palm Springs Pride 2015 - Friday, Saturday and Sunday November 6-8 All parties are FREE! • Welcome Kickoff Pride Cocktail Party: November 6 (5:00 to 8:00 p.m.)

• Pride Beach Party: November 7 (Noon to 6:00 p.m.) Drink Specials, Giant Beer Pong, Giant Twister, Pool Volleyball and poolside DJs • Sunday Funday Pride Pool Party: November 8 (Noon to 6:00 p.m.) Drink Specials, poolside DJs. DJs All Weekend!

Hacienda’s Beach Club is truly a sun lover’s paradise in a classic Palm Springs setting. Entertainers from around the world will get your mind, body and spirit where they need to be. Hacienda Cantina and Beach Club, 1555 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA. No Cover all weekend, 21+. www.haciendacantina.com Latino Party : November 6 (7:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.)

7:00 p.m. Doors Open – No cover 8:00 p.m. Homo Estas? Latinas Show $5 Cover 10:00 p.m. to 2 a.m. Latin Dance Club $10 Cover 100 % proceeds made at each door event benefit Greater Palm Springs Pride to help keep Pride free to attend Pride Meet & Greet Party at CCBC Resort: Friday, November 6 (8:00 p.m. – Midnight) Complimentary Margaritas, DJ Gruvbehr Tickets $20 online as part of Weekend Pass at http://bit.ly/

OCTOBER 2015 7

COVER

10,000 MANIACS, BLAKE LANSING, CANDIS CAYNE, DAVID HERNANDEZ

ccbcparty or $25 at the door. Clothing optional. 21+.

CCBC Resort is the largest clothing optional gay men’s resort in the nation, featuring infamous pool parties with award-winning DJs. Broadway in Drag Pageant: Friday, November 6 (8:00 p.m.)

Palm Canyon Theatre’s wildly popular Broadway in Drag! pageant returns. See a bevy of beautiful show queens vie for the crown in this lavish production around the glitz and glamour of Broadway. The contestants will be judged on evening gown, talent and swimsuit by a unique panel of judges. Hosted by Palm Springs’ own drag diva, Bella da BallSM. This event continues to sell out year after year so get your tickets early! Broadway in Drag is an Official Palm Springs Pride Event. The Palm Canyon Theatre is centrally located at 538 N. Palm Canyon Dr. in Beautiful Uptown Palm Springs. Admission is $35.00; $50 VIP Seats/Voter’s Circle. For tickets, call 760-323-5123 or order tickets online at: www.PalmCanyonTheatre.org Two-Day Pride Festival: Friday and Saturday November 7 and 8 (times vary by stage) Palm Canyon Dr. 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. on Sat & 10:00 a.m.

- 4:00 p.m. on Sun Tahquitz Stage 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. on Sat & 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Sun Arenas Stage 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. on Sat & Noon - 6:00 p.m. on Sun 2nd year in New Downtown Palm Springs Location!

Free Admission!

Palm Canyon Dr. will be closed to traffic and transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian friendly Pride Festival, unique to Southern California. Enjoy a diverse array of artists, entertainers, multiple beverage gardens and purveyors of all sorts including, jewelry, snacks and sweets. Add all that to great shopping restaurants, clubs and entertainment venues located along world-famous Palm Canyon Dr. and the result is like no place else.

The two-day lineup features live performances by soulful pop artist Marcella Detroit former Shakespear’s Sister, emerging artist Sam Tolson and the DJ Baz show “Cuban Nights”. The incomparable Irene Soderberg returns to the Pride stage as does techno- pop,

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Seattle singer Jack Mozie. Special appearances include the former local resident, Brian Scott who has always been a favorite across the Valley with his hugely popular country voice, and the modern music band from Joshua Tree, Small Wonder Experience.

Festival Emcees include the desert’s very own hostess, social ambassador and Walk of Stars recipient Bella da BallSM. Bella has coordinated an impressive lineup of 100 entertainers for the Tahquitz stage. The stage will feature individuals and groups performing, singers, dancers, drag personalities, celebrity impersonators, gay men, lesbians, transgender, straight men and women allies, all coming together to have a great time with music-comedy-songdance-costuming-headdresses-photo ops- audience participation.

Performers have appeared locally, regionally, nationally and internationally on stage, screen, in movies and television, in theatre, on tour, with many having CDs and DVDs released.

Transgender entertainer Allison Annalora, recent McCallum Open Call Finalist, will appear and the National Anthem will be sung November 7 by Doug Graham and November 8 by Jerome Elliott. Vocalists will include Carol Kamenis, Keisha D, Morganne, Eve Holmes, Francesca Amari, Roger Snofsky, Robbie Wayne, Tommy Dodson, David Hirsch, David McBride, and many others. Groups appearing include the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Steven Michael’s Dance Machine, and Carnival Cabaret.

Drag personalities scheduled to appear include Marina Mac, Pinkie Meringue Shimmer, Anita Rose, Cher-Javier, Cherilyn, Eddie DLite, and many others.

Features include a Children’s Headquarters (CHQ) space for games and crafts, the Youth Zone by Safe Schools Desert Cities, and HIV/AIDS testing by Get Tested Coachella Valley. Over 150 exhibitors and non-profit organizations, food and beverage vendors will be on hand along with the Tahquitz Beverage Garden by Trio, the Arenas Beverage Garden, and a Dance Tent Beverage Garden featuring Bud Light, Deep Eddy Vodka and Rex Goliath wine.

The Festival is a free community event held on Palm Canyon Dr. between Amado and Baristo Rd. and on Arenas Rd. from S. Calle Encilia to Balardo. Donations will be accepted at entry points to keep Pride free.

Hot Wet & Proud Pool Party “4”: Saturday, November 7 (Noon to 10:00 p.m.)

Join men from around the world for a day of sunshine, music and fun. This colorful, gay men’s resort hotel is 6.7 miles from the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Noon-3:00 p.m. free BBQ and DJ Gruvbehr.

1:00 p.m. Jersey Shore and Mr. CCBC Nude Contest Winner 2:00 p.m. Mr. CCBC Palm Springs Pride Contest 8:00 p.m. DJ Gruvbehr until 4:00 a.m.

Admission is $25.00 in advance as part of Weekend Pass; $30 at the door. For Weekend Pass visit http://bit.ly/ccbcparty. Clothing Optional. 21+ DYKE MARCH & Rally: Saturday, November 7 (4:00 to 6:00 p.m.)

Be a part of Lesbian History. Why? We are marching in Palm Springs Pride as an official event of Pride Weekend. This is a call to the Valley, Inland Empire and beyond to be a part of the First Annual Dyke March On Saturday, November 7th. We will start gathering (PURPLE ATTIRE REQUESTED) at Jackie Lee Houston Park directly in front of the Palm Springs Convention Center at 4:00 p.m. Women will be marching united and striving to bring awareness to all women’s issues. The one-mile walk will begin at the gathering site around 5:00 p.m. We plan to take the Arenas Stage about 6:00 p.m.

Bring your signs, musical instruments and your great energy.

There will be plenty of parking. For those returning to their cars later in the evening consider the BUZZ bus. For more information and details on the route please contact womenunitedps@gmail.com.

PLUS – Look for The DYKE March contingent in the Parade on Sunday gathering at 10. Be there to meet and greet your sisters! See you there! Facebook.com/psdykemarch Arenas Rd. Block Party ’15 presented by Hunters: Saturday, November 7 (6:00 - 11:00 p.m.) Free event, 21+ Located between Indian Canyon Dr. and S. Calle Encilia on Arenas Rd. in downtown Palm Springs. www.pspride.org This street party has become a highlight of Pride weekend. Join guest Emcees for live music and featured headliners, standout stars, and live performances on the US Bank stage. Featured headliners include Candis Cayne, Frankmusik, the London based pop artist, pop singer Wrabel, Los Angeles based synth pop band DWNTWN, Ricky Rebel, and a spectacular closing act Not Exactly, Deadmau5 Tribute.

3rd Annual Official Ladies’ Party: November 7 (6:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.)

Alibi Azul presents the Official Ladies’ Party of Palm Springs Pride for women who love women.

6:00 p.m. Doors Open - $5 Cover 7:00 p.m. TBA Show - $5 Cover 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Chix Mix Returns - DJs, Lady Dancers, Lady Bartenders.

21+ event. $10 Cover 100 % proceeds made at the door benefit Greater Palm Springs Pride to help keep Pride free for everyone to attend Alibi Azul, 369 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs www.alibiazul.com Women’s Pride Dance: Saturday, November 7 (7:30 to Midnight) Presented by L-Fund and Rainbow Women. A benefit for lesbians in crisis in the Coachella Valley. Admission $20 in advance from www.l-fund.org, $30 at the door.

Hard Rock Hotel 150 S. Indian Canyon Dr. Palm Springs Additional information: 760 574-3595 or 760 318-6794.

“Hey T!” Official T-Dance Party: November 8 (Noon to 7:00 p.m.)

Noon to 3:00 p.m. - Jersey Shore - Sunday Disco Drag Brunch!

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Hey T Official T-Dance $5 Cover (Budweiser All you can drink! $10) 100 % proceeds made at the door benefit Greater Palm Springs Pride to help keep Pride free for everyone to attend.

Alibi Azul, 369 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs www.alibiazul.com After Hours Dance Party: Saturday, November 8 (12:00 a.m. – 4:00 A.M.) Come frolic under the stars at the Official Pride after hours party for men at CCBC Resort, the largest clothing optional gay men’s resort in the nation. Tickets are $20 in advance as part of Weekend Pass and $25 at the door. For Weekend Pass visit http:// bit.ly/ccbcparty. Clothing optional. 21+.

Dish Creative Cuisine Official Event: November 8 (9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

Celebrate the 29th Annual Greater Palm Springs Pride Parade in typical Palm Springs style at the Official Parade Kick-Off point at dish Creative Cuisine. Experience all the action in a prime balcony location with VIP seating as the parade contingents pass right in front of the party. dish Creative Cuisine is a proud Official Partner and will donate $10 of each ticket sold to Greater Palm Springs Pride.

Parade steps off at 10:00 a.m. from the front door of Dish Creative Cuisine at Tachevah Dr. and Palm Canyon Dr. Tickets are $100 in advance and $125.00 at the door subject to availability. Call now for reservations as this event always sells out 760-322-7171 or visit www.dishCreativeCuisine.com

OCTOBER 2015 9

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COVER 29th Anniversary Pride Parade: Sunday, November 8 (10:00 a.m.)

Known for its crystal blue skies and year-round sunshine, the city of Palm Springs comes alive during the annual Pride celebration. 60,000 spectators are expected to gather along palm tree-lined streets to cheer and support local organizations, activists and themed floats along historic Palm Canyon Dr. The parade is scheduled for Sunday, November 8 at 10 a.m. The Parade will serve to recognize and honor Evan Wolfson, National Grand Marshal and the Grand Marshals Randy Johnson and Paul Campion. Wolfson is widely credited as the mastermind behind the legal strategy that won marriage equality for all and Johnson and Campion are two plaintiffs in the historic Supreme Court case who were married in Palm Springs in 2008. Also recognized as Community Grand Marshals is the nightclub business trio of Mark Hunter, Jennifer Seymour and Patrick Volkert. As co-owners of Hunters Palm Springs, the business partners are recognized for having a positive impact in the region through the support they have provided to community organizations and fundraising efforts large and small.

Steps off in the Uptown Design District at Tachevah and Palm Canyon Dr. and travels south through downtown ending at the entrance to the Pride Festival at Amado Rd. www.pspride.org

Poolside Mimosas and music!

Sunday, November 8 (10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.)

DJ Gruvbehr spins at the clothing optional CCBC weekend pool party. Mimosas Served Pool Side along with Continental Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Tickets are $20 in advance as part of Weekend Pass online at bit.ly/ccbcparty and $25 at the door. Clothing optional. 21+. CCBC Resort, 68300 Gay Resort Drive, Cathedral City. 760-324-1350. www.ccbcps.com About Greater Palm Springs Pride Greater Palm Springs Pride (pspride.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community enhancement organization founded to promote the public education and awareness of individual rights and civil liberties of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

Established in 1986, the organization continues to serve as a catalyst for celebrating the strength, equality, dignity and self-determination of the LGBT community locally and globally. For more information about Greater Palm Springs Pride, visit www.pspride.org. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/palmsprings.pride. The 2015 Palm Springs Pride Celebration is scheduled for November 6-8.

OCTOBER 2015 11

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INTERVIEW

GINNY FOAT’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE MORE THAN JUST AT CITY HALL You’ve accomplished a lot as a City Council person. What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?

I worked really hard to help take our City from the brink of financial disaster in 2008. Today, we are a City that is admired all over the world.

of the community and range from the Chairman of the Film Festival, Harold Matzner, President of our largest renewable energy facilities, Mr. Fred Noble, HRC Board Member Andy Linsky, President of the Board of the Animal Shelter and co-owner of the Triangle Inn, Stephen Boyd, Barbara and Jerry Keller from LuLu’s and hundreds more.

I am also proud of Measure J. It is performing way beyond expectations. We anticipated that it would yield $8 million a year in revenue to benefit our community. Instead, it is now yielding $12 million a year, which is being used to improve the quality of life of our visitors, residents and businesses.

Tell us about your involvement with the Homeless Taskforce.

I have been working on homelessness in the Coachella Valley for 8 years. As one of the original members and co-chair of the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) Homelessness Committee, I helped create Roy’s Desert Resource Center, the first homeless shelter in the West Valley. In Palm Springs we have a particularly serious issue with homelessness, so I recently created the Palm Springs Task Force on Homelessness. The task force is comprised of members of the community with expertise in working with the homeless, City staff and members of the police department.

When I came on Council in 2003 I had four priorities which were: building a new animal shelter; creating and formalizing a network of neighborhood organizations; building a West Valley homeless shelter and revitalizing our downtown. All of those projects have come to fruition and are either complete or moving in a positive direction.

You played an important part in the making the BUZZ Trolley a reality. Do you feel it has been a success?

The Buzz has become more successful than any of us could have imagined. We created the Buzz to tackle several key issues-assisting tourists in getting around Palm Springs to patronize our local businesses; provide an easy to use and free transportation system for our residents and guests, reducing drunk driving, helping address limited parking in our business districts, and simply having fewer cars on the road and less pollution in our community. To date the BUZZ has had over 100,000 riders.

Who are some of your biggest endorsers to date - both organizations and individuals?

I am proud to have gained the endorsement of all organizations that I have interviewed with. From the LGBT community, Equality California, Stonewall Democrats, The Victory Fund and LPAC endorse me. The Central Labor Council COPE, and the Riverside County Democratic Central Committee also endorse me. For my work in preservation and understanding the importance of our mid-century modern heritage the Palm Springs Modern Heritage Fund endorses me.

I am proud to also be endorsed by the Palm Springs Police Officers Association. My individual endorsements are from a wide spectrum

If elected Mayor of Palm Springs, where are we at the end of your first term?

We will have a functioning and prosperous downtown. We will have new hotels and restaurants. Our no-kill animal shelter will continue to be the model other cities copy. We will have implemented a comprehensive plan for our unhoused residents. Our community bike lanes will be complete. All of our major city owned facilities will be powered by solar. We will have built our second dog park. We will have diversified our economy through the economic development center -- our I-Hub. We will have greater public safety services through an improved police force. We will have saved some historic Palm Springs buildings from destruction. And Indian Canyon will be a two way street with interesting shops, attractions and businesses -- no longer a sterile speedway.

How will you spend November 4th - the day after the election?

Calling all of the people that gave so much time and effort to my campaign and thanking them for their support and encouragement.

Hugging my partner of 27 years and thanking her for putting up with all the insanity that running for office entails. And then back to tackling the challenges that and capturing opportunities that face our unique and wonderful city every day.

OCTOBER 2015 15

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OCTOBER 2015 17

FEATURE

PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES NEXUS RADIO BRINGS DANCE MUSIC TO THE MASSES Nexus Radio, the first major radio and TV service specializing in dance music, knows what club fans want. They call it the 3Ds: the divas, the divos and the DJs. “Fans want music that fits their active lifestyles,” says Manny Esparza, Nexus Radio co-founder and its CEO. “At the gym, in the car, at work, or just about anywhere fans need some adrenaline pumping tracks, they can turn to Nexus.” Listen to Nexus Radio online or download the app to play on all mobile devices. Listeners can opt out of commercials with the VIP option.

Manny Esparza knows what dance fans want because he is one.

It’s what makes Nexus Radio different from the larger media companies and terrestrial stations. “We’re music architects and dedicated to the genre of dance,” he explains. Esparza and his partner and co-founder, Gregory Schweitzer, have worked in dance music for over fifteen years.

“Often times the larger stations are controlled by board rooms and their music is influenced by other interests, and they forget about the true purpose of dance.”

Nexus Radio plays a wide selection of dance music artists from both major and independent labels. “We support all artists who make dance music, not just the huge superstars who play the major festivals,” says Schweitzer, the station’s COO. It’s common to hear an independent artist like Kristine W following a track by major artist like Avicii. While most EDM stations place emphasis solely on the DJs, Nexus Radio focuses on vocalists too.

The station launched in 2003 as Fusion Radio, and has won several awards throughout the years. It was named ‘Best Internet Radio Station’

by Promo Only, a notable industry group, in 2012 and 2013.

“It basically comes down to accessibility,” reasons Esparza.

“Whether fans listen from a desktop, mobile device or wristwatch, we’re there. We’re breaking from the pack of other stations by being on as many platforms as possible.”

It’s also about developing a community. From its studio in downtown Chicago, Nexus Radio interviews artists, writes blogs, and creates weekly and monthly music charts that are published in publications across the United States.

The station also hosts events, including Videotron and a nationwide Gay Pride tour. In fact, the station has a long history of working with the LGBT community and supporting its artists. “We want young gay people

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to embrace dance because it’s part of their history,” says Esparza, who is openly gay. “Disco has been the soundtrack for the gay community since before Stonewall.

“On the dance floor, everyone is accepted and celebrated for their individuality, and today’s EDM world was born from the rave community which broadcasts a similar message; peace, love, unity and respect. Music has the ability to bring people together, and it all happens on Nexus.”

This year, while the station and dedicated video channel were in the process of rebranding to Nexus, the station was nominated for a prestigious IDMA award.

The Standard Magazine had the opportunity to sit down with Manny & Gregory to discuss why they do what they do. Here’s what they had to say.

How did you get your start in radio?

In Chicago there was a station called Energy 92.7 that went off the air. The fans were devastated and some of us gathered into an online chat room thinking of what we could do to bring dance music back to the airwaves. We met in the chat room and the rest is history. Prior to Nexus Radio, neither of us had any experience in radio, just a passion and love for the music.

You have several other stations on Nexus Radio featuring different genres of music, why the big emphasis on dance music?

Dance music is energetic, uplifting and positive music. Just like when you are dancing at the club, it provides an escape from reality where you can be whoever you want to be.

In your opinion how do you think dance music has evolved, say in the last 15 years?

Dance music has come out of the closet, literally. After disco “died” in US in the early 80s, the gay clubs kept the dance floors going. While dance music has been pop music around the world, it took the US a lot longer to re-embrace it. Whether you call it EDM, trance, trap, house or techno, mainstream culture has started to follow the beats just like we do.

You were quoted as saying “Disco has been the soundtrack for the Gay community since before Stonewall”, why do you think that is?

Disco music was the only form of music that embraced and encouraged gay people to be free and unique. It brought us together on the dance floor. Suddenly, we were all invited to the party.

When I tune into your radio station what should I expect to hear?

Great dance music. We find the best songs from around the world - house, electro, trance, HiNRG, and NuDisco - and bring them together under one umbrella - Nexus Radio.

In addition to its flagship Nexus Radio dance station, the network also features stations in pop, Latin pop, regional Latin, alternative, urban and a dedicated video channel called Nexus TV. Visit www.nexusradio.fm, www.nexus.audio, and www.nexus. video.

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICE We create 15 or 30 second dynamic videos with your existing visuals. For Facebook, Twitter or any platform you work with.

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MOTION & VISUALS 760-980-1050 | scott@motionandvisuals.com OCTOBER 2015 19

National Grand Marshal

Evan wolfson

Gather your friends and start Pride weekend with tastings from Coachella Valley restaurants, bars and beverage purveyors. Drop in, enjoy the variety of food, plenty of libations and DJ Baz spinning his music for Modernistas.

Friday, November 6, 2015 El Mirador Plaza 4th Floor Outdoor Patio 5 to 8pm

Grand Marshals

Food, Drink, Entertainment!

Randy Johnson and Paul Campion

$50 individual Early Bird $75 Regular Admission Tickets online at w w w .PSPride.org/outpsp Meet Evan Wolfson, National Grand Marshal, Grand Marshals Randy Johnson and Paul Campion and Community Grand Marshals Mark Hunter, Jennifer Seymour and Patrick Volkert.

presented by Community grand marshals

Patrick Volkert, Jennifer Seymour & mark hunter

All proceeds support the nonproďŹ t Pride organization’s efforts to keep Pride free for all to attend.

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BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED…

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

And they lived happily ever after.

Even today, years after you’ve outgrown fairy tales, those words make you smile. Ohh, how you love a happy ending, even though (and maybe because) life doesn’t always work out that way.

As a matter of fact, in “Nothing Looks Familiar,” a new short-story collection by Shawn Syms, sad endings don’t always happen, either.

Worst-case scenario. If it all goes well. God willing, everything will turn out alright – but if not, life goes on. We’ll live through it, just like the people in these stories.

A job in a slaughterhouse, for instance, is just a job and while Wanda would rather work somewhere else, there’s no real reason to move on. Instead, in “On the Line,” she takes lovers from everywhere but the kill floor. Nobody knows she does it, until she sleeps with the wrong man – a man whose wife is Wanda’s co-worker.

Because he had few friends (“He’d never been good at keeping” them), Adam was surprised that Shaggy wanted to hang out. They never did much, just a little mayhem now and then, but in “Four Pills,” the tables are about to turn.

Gimli, Manitoba is a tiny town perched on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. Sammy, who’s eight years old and Cindy, who’s just a baby, might have loved it there someday, but their mother had to get them away from there. The fumes from the drugs she made were no good for the kids; neither were the people she worked with or the tiny house where they mixed. In “Family Circus,” the kids’ mother starts making plans for escape.

People didn’t have to like Brenda Foxworthy: she liked herself enough. As one of the Popular Girls, she got away with everything, including meanness to Dean and his friends, Preet and Rickie. Did Brenda hate their sexuality or their nerdiness? It didn’t matter because, in “Get Brenda Foxworthy,” the three had plenty of other reasons for revenge.

When Sean and Kate inherited a house from Kate’s dad, they also inherited an eccentric tenant that they rarely saw. In “Man, Woman, and Child,” Les Montague was a harmless old guy… wasn’t he?

Unsettling. That’s a good word to use when describing the eleven short stories inside “Nothing Looks Familiar.” Reading this book, in fact, is a little like watching an accident that you’re powerless to stop and can’t un-see. For sure, what you’ll read here will make you squirm.

But that’s not a bad thing, oddly enough. I found myself rather

addicted to the stories that author Shawn Syms tells, even though they left me dangling, wondering what happened next. Another oddity: the characters in these stories aren’t particularly likeable, which leads to a certain amount of schadenfreude, or a smug, satisfactory feeling that things didn’t go so well for them.

These are stories that will tap you on the shoulder, days after you’ve finished the book. They’ll keep you awake, pondering. If you’re not careful, “Nothing Looks Familiar” could haunt you ever after.

“Nothing Looks Familiar” by Shawn Syms c.2015, Aresnal Pulp Press $15.95 U.S. and Canada 184 pages

OCTOBER 2015 23

PSP FOCUS LOWE AND KENDELL TO BE HONORED

BY THE CENTER Randy Lowe and Kate Kendell will receive the Legacy and Vanguard Awards respectively at this year’s 6th Annual Center Stage Gala to be presented by Eisenhower Medical Center, and held on Friday, October 30th.

Randy Lowe is being “recognized for his exceptional work on behalf of and creating a lasting impact on LGBT people living in the Coachella Valley”, said Brian Rix, Chairman of the Board.

Since 2008 Randy Lowe served as the Board Chair of The Center, and its predecessor the Golden Rainbow Senior Center, until he recently stepped down, and now serves in a consultant capacity as Board Chair Emeritus. He joined the organization to create a counseling program but quickly worked to reorganize The Center to be a full service community center for the entire LGBT community.

A graduate of the University of Portland, Lowe also received graduate degrees in Public Administration with specialties in executive development and organizational behavior from the University of Northern Colorado (1977) and the University of Southern California (1988).

Lowe spent his career with the Federal government working for the Mine Safety and Health Administration, Federal Contract Compliance Programs, and as a Clinton appointee as Chief of Staff concentrating on civil rights work. Following his governmental work, he served as the Diversity Officer and Senior Vice President for Employment at Union Bank in San Francisco, where he achieved the recognition for the bank by Fortune magazine as the best company in the US for diversity in 2000, and by the Federal Government with the Opportunity 2000 award as the best company in America for affirmative action. Upon retiring in 2008 he moved to Palm Springs and joined the Board of the Golden Rainbow Senior Center.

In his seven years at The Center, Randy has shepherded the organization through a complete reorganization of its mission and programs, reaching out to all sectors of the LGBT community that serves over 3,000 people a month.

Kate Kendell is receiving the Vanguard Award for her courageous leadership on behalf of LGBT people.

Kendell leads the National Center for Lesbian Rights, a national legal organization committed to advancing the civil and human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people and their families through litigation, public policy advocacy, and public education. NCLR’s legal, policy, and legislative victories set important precedents that improve the lives of all LGBT people and their families across the country. Projects and Legal Issue Areas Include: Asylum & Immigration; Elders; Employment; Family

24 THESTANDARDPS.COM

& Relationships; Federal Legislation & Policy; State Legislation & Policy; Hate Crimes; Healthcare; Housing; Low Income & Poverty; Prisons; Rural Communities; Sports; Transgender Law; and Youth.

Kate received her J.D. degree from the University of Utah College of Law in 1988, and after a few years as a corporate attorney she was named the first staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union of Utah. In this capacity, she oversaw the legal department of ACLU of Utah and directly litigated many high-profile cases focusing on all aspects of civil liberties, including reproductive rights, prisoners’ rights, church/state conflicts, free speech, and the rights of LGBT people. In 1994 she became Legal Director with the National Center for Lesbian Rights in San Francisco, and in 1996 its Executive Director. In that capacity, she assists in the development of litigation and strategy, and is responsible for all aspects of agency operation. In her work, Kendell has appeared in hundreds of media outlets including the New York Times, Washington Post, Good Morning America, CNN, and dozens of on-line blogs.

Center Stage will open with a Reception & Silent Auction at 5:30 PM, followed by a sit-down Dinner and Entertainment at 7 PM, hosted by the quick witted Kate Clinton and concert by Alex Newell, the powerful and mesmerizing singer best known for his starring role as transgender student Wade “Unique” Adams on the musical comedy-drama Glee.

“We are thrilled to honor these two remarkable individuals, and have such incredible talent come and support The Center,” said Rix. “The support for this line-up and the work of The Center is overwhelming. We are thrilled to have Eisenhower Medical Center return as our Presenting Sponsor and David Hood & George Sellers as Premier Sponsors.

Other Sponsors as of press time are Grace Helen Spearman Charitable Foundation, Merrill Lynch, Palm Springs Pride, Palm Springs Safe Access; Red Carpet Sponsorships Burke Rix Communications, City of Palm Springs, Elliott Sernel & Larry Falconio, John Monahan The Five Hundred, Randy Lowe, Riviera, Southern California Edison;

PSP FOCUS 1st Community Insurance Services, Andy Linsky, Barefoot Wines, Charles Robbins & Damon Romine, Chill, Dann Foley Lifestyle, Desert AIDS Project, Desert Regional Medical Center, Eric Rudolph, Family Hospice Care, Geoff Kors & James Williamson, Heritage Legal, Judy Gordon, LuLu California Bistro, O’Kane & McKee LLP, Reaction Marketing, Streetbar, WBB+McCormack. Media Partners are Coachella Valley Independent, CoachellaValleyNews.com, Daily Desert Guide, Desert Outlook, Frontiers, Gay Desert Guide, Gay

Entertainment Directory Magazine, Lesbian News, LIVE, Nicholas Snow, and The Standard Magazine. Publicity by Gray Public Relations & Marketing.

Center Stage will begin with a Reception & Silent Auction at 5:30 PM, followed by Dinner and Entertainment at 7 PM, at the Riviera Palm Springs, on Friday, October 30, 2015.

For more information or to purchase a ticket, call 760-416-7790 or go to www.thecenterps.org/events/centerstage

GET STEPPIN’ DESERT AIDS WALK 28 The 28th Desert AIDS Walk is a community event supporting HIV and AIDS services, prevention, and advocacy at Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.). Desert AIDS Walk has made it possible for DAP to continue serving their clients with an unparalleled range of services like: medical and dental care, medications, food, housing, transportation assistance, mental health counseling, a Community Center with a variety of educational and social activities, including skills-for-living and back-to-work training.

Simultaneously, DAP is working harder than ever, to help bring about an end to further HIV infection here in our community as the lead agency on Get Tested Coachella Valley. The goal of “Get Tested” is to get 100% of the Coachella Valley tested for HIV. This is critically needed mainly because, more than half of Coachella Valley residents have never been tested for HIV.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that approximately one in five people living with HIV do not know they are infected.

In our valley, the prevalence of HIV is more than twice the national average; putting everyone at greater risk Every step taken and each dollar raised, DAP can test more people, bring more people who are HIV positive into care, and move one step closer to an “AIDS free generation”.

Join the FUNdraising efforts today. It’s online, safe and easy.

Create your own team or register as an individual.

Set your goal. Collect donations from your family, friends and colleagues. Register, raise funds and join us on Saturday, October 17th at Ruth Hardy Park.

OCTOBER 2015 25

PSP FOCUS MOD PALM SPRINGS WEEKEND From the collective efforts of the people that brought you Shag the store and Tiki Caliente…

MOD Palm Springs is a very special weekend escape where you can celebrate all things Mid-Century Modern, mixed with a light touch of Exotic, Retro Tiki Culture.

Focusing on Architecture, Fashion, Cocktails, Art and Music; MOD Palm Springs provides your opportunity to revel in the Best that the Mid-Century lifestyle has to offer.

This year’s MOD event takes place at the historic Caliente Tropics Resort from October 8th-11th, 2015. After arriving through the hotel´s iconic A-Frame entrance; you will step back in time with our carefully planned atomic explosion of thoughtfully Themed Musical Performances, Mid-Century and Tiki shopping (from an array of creative vendors), Artworks (that embrace the era) and Skillfully Mixed Cocktails. This unique destination location also provides you the opportunity to venture off on an architectural or self-guided driving tour, (past Palm Springs´ many famous Mid-Century wonders) and then rejoin the fun back at your host hotel.

Palm Springs’ weather is so spectacular in October that we’ll completely understand if you choose to simply lounge by the Caliente Tropics’ gorgeous and ample pool, while sipping superb cocktails from the on-site bar!

MOD Palm Springs is open to the public until 6:00pm on Saturday and Sunday only. After 6:00pm, MOD becomes an Exclusive,

Wristband Only Event that you’ll not want to miss. The Evenings’ Amazing Music and Entertainment will delight you, as well as our lively Sponsored Room Parties (where you’ll sip on complementary libations). So be sure to purchase your wristbands early so you can enjoy all that MOD has to offer.

We look forward to having you join us and be part of the MOD Palm Springs experience! Visualize a Mid-Century Mindset with a Tiki Twist! MOD is set in Palm Springs, California (a mecca for MidCentury Modern) at the Caliente Tropics Resort - 411 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264 (760) 327-1391 www.modps.bigcartel.com

PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE We have a jam-packed event schedule for you, including the Meet and Greet at Hunters Nightclub, a clothing optional pool party hosted by the Clifton Tatum, the current Mr. Palm Springs Leather, a Formal Leather Dinner at the Palm Springs Hilton in their beautiful Horizon Ballroom with stunning mountain views, the Tool Shed/PSLOD Vendor Market and Back Lot Cruise Party (special admittance line for VIP’s), the ‘Gar and Gear Party/BBQ at The Barracks bar, the Mr. Palms Springs Leather Contest, the Victory Leather/Fetish Dance Party at The Barracks, Turning up the Heat Pool Party/BBQ and Soaked T-shirt Contest, and the Official Closing Party at The Barracks (special admittance line for VIP’s). Package holders also receive a t-shirt, collectible run pin and dog tags. Individual tickets for the events (except the Formal Leather Dinner) will be available online, at the registration tables or event doors until they sell out. We also have a few brand new and exciting events that we’re sure you’ll want to check out, including a Women’s Brunch, so make sure you visit the website for all the details!

26 THESTANDARDPS.COM

VIP Tickets are going fast so order yours today to make sure you have reserved your spot for one of the best West Coast Leather Events! For much more information and to order your tickets go to www.desertleatherpride.com.

Consider making it 10 days of PRIDE! Come for Palm Springs Leather Pride and stay for Palm Springs Gay pride the following weekend. Check it out at www.pspride.org!

October 28-31, 2015

On Arenas Road 6-10 p.m.

DJ Baz Marina Mac

Machin’

Bella da Ball

Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus

Preliminary Contests October 28-30 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday at Streetbar —Thursday at Spurline — Friday at Chill

Halloween Contest October 31 8:00 p.m.

Grand Prize, 2nd & 3rd Places and Preliminary Contest Winners Support our Beneficiaries Desert AIDS Project Greater Palm Springs Pride LGBT Community Center of the Desert Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus

VIP ZONE Tickets Online Only — $50

HalloweenPalmSprings.com

LEGALLY SPEAKING

IS THERE A MONSTER IN YOUR FAMILY?

BY CHRISTOPHER HERITAGE

Family relationships run the gamut from peaceful to frightful.

Every family has a unique formula for interaction with relatives.

Some people may be serene, loving and devoted to their kin. Others can be belligerent, heartless jackasses. Often, the true nature of your nearest and dearest only comes out when there is a crisis – like when you get really sick, or you die.

In my law practice, I am often retained to represent a trustee or executor who must take care of the estate of someone who has passed on. When the relatives and other heirs all cooperate, most of these cases go smoothly and the decedent’s affairs can be wrapped up and the estate closed out with ease. But sometimes there are cold-blooded, greedy, or just plain mean family members involved, and the whole thing becomes a horror story. Here are a few that I’ve run across: Britney claims her mother always promised to leave her a favorite ring when she died. Now mom has passed on, and her most recent Will, created just a few months before her death, gives that ring to Britney’s sister and divides the rest of her assets equally between the two sisters. Britney is furious, and, in spite of getting half of the rest of mom’s estate, she is going to fight the Will and claim

28 THESTANDARDPS.COM

that mom was coerced to sign it. She is sure that sister forced mom to give her the ring.

Unfortunately for Britney, the Will has a no contest clause, meaning that under most circumstances in California, she will be disinherited if she challenges the Will. She would need solid proof that mom was incompetent, or under menace or duress. There is no evidence at all of such things, and no way that Britney can hope to save her inheritance if she goes to court. She will lose the case, and her share of the estate.

In another situation, brothers Sam and Greg hadn’t been close in recent years, and their father passed away. Dad’s Trust named Sam as Trustee, and the estate was left to the two brothers in equal shares. Sam moved into dad’s house, shuffled the bank accounts around, and paid his own living expenses out of the Trust funds.

Greg protested, and begged Sam to settle the estate and give him his share. As Greg pleaded, Sam became more and more obstinate. He finally shouted at Greg he was going to stay in the house until he decided to sell it or he died. At that point, Greg was forced to take legal action to have him removed as Trustee. The

court required Sam to compensate the estate for rent he should have paid for living in the house, and all of the Trust funds he used to pay his own expenses. Sam was greedy and self-dealing. He failed to carry out his legal obligations as a Trustee.

Jerry was named executor and sole beneficiary of his uncle’s Will. Uncle had depended on Jerry for assistance with his care and finances for the past several years. Jerry’s three siblings never visited uncle or offered to help. After his death, the siblings suddenly surfaced, declaring that they were blood relatives just as much as Jerry, and were entitled to shares of the estate. They vowed to fight Jerry’s appointment as executor, and his inheritance of uncle’s money. Things began to get nasty. Fortunately, it didn’t take long for the judge to find that the Jerry’s siblings had no grounds to challenge the Will. It was a valid Will, and the uncle was competent and free to name whomever he pleased as his executor and beneficiary.

As a last example, there was the case of a mother who created a Will and carefully listed all of her personal property so everyone would know exactly what was in her estate. She left a lot of specific items to her two children, Brenda and Bill, and all the rest of her possessions and her investments to her godchildren and two of her best friends – seven people in three different families. These people were ecstatic – they would make out far better than mom’s own offspring.

Meanwhile, the two children took an inventory of all the personal property, and found that mom had given away or disposed of most of the items the Will left to Brenda and Bill, and nothing was left for them.

Brenda and Bill were really angry, and figured the court would find they were entitled as next of kin to a share of property and investments that were left to the other beneficiaries. Before the court actually ruled on it, they started dividing up everything that was left in the estate.

The seven others were furious. Mom wanted them to have most of her possessions. That was clear. They would file suit against Brenda and Bill to stop them from looting the estate, and get the court to rule that mom’s wishes should be followed. Too bad that mom gave away the children’s inheritance. Tough luck. The battle raged in court and there is no ruling yet. No matter who wins, the attorney fees will take a sizeable bite out of the value of the estate, and that is probably not what mom wanted to happen.

This article is part of an ongoing series of articles pertaining to legal issues relevant to the LGBT community, and is intended for general information purposes only – not legal advice. Christopher Heritage is an attorney in Palm Springs and San Diego, who focuses on LGBT estate planning, domestic partnerships, same-sex marriage, probate, trust administration, and bankruptcy. He welcomes questions and comments and can be contacted at 760-325-2020 or at chris@heritagelegal.com

OCTOBER 2015 29

Great HIV care is just a part of what you’ll find at D.A.P.

Photo by Gregg Felsen

Our passion is Your Wellness We offer a newly remodeled HIV-specialty and primary care clinic, dental clinic, sexual health services at

Desert AIDS Project accepts IEHP, Desert Oasis HMOs and PPOs, various

The Dock, cancer screenings and treatment through our Annette Bloch Cancer Care Center, a full range of mental health and addiction recovery services, and so much more – creating a “medical home” for our patients.

Covered California plans, Medicare, and private pay insurance plans. If you have another PPO or HMO, please check with your plan administrator.

And it all happens under one roof! That’s what makes D.A.P. a national model for holistic-care-done-right.

To schedule an appointment,

D.A.P. has been designated as a Top 20 HIV/AIDS Charity for two consecutive years and received Four Star Status for four consecutive years from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator – a distinction achieved by only 7% of all nonprofits they rank.

30 THESTANDARDPS.COM

call 760.323.2118

desertAIDSproject.org

EQCA UPDATE

EQCA SUCCESSFUL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM

BY RICK ZBUR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF EQUALITY CALIFORNIA We are proud to report the success of Equality California’s 2015 legislative program. At Equality California, 100% of our pro-equality priority bills—eight bills that we sponsored, and two more that we advocated for—passed in the 2015 legislative session and headed to the Governor’s desk. Our success this year means that Equality California has now passed 110 pieces of legislation, and maintains its position as the most effective LGBT advocacy organization in the nation.

This year, if signed into law, these bills will make our students safer, give California teachers better resources to support LGBT students, strengthen the rights of LGBT parents, protect transgender foster youth, and more. In addition, we helped pass a legislative resolution that calls on the federal government to end the discriminatory blood donation policies that prevent all sexually active gay and bisexual men from donating blood.

Equality California’s 2015 Sponsored Bills and Resolutions: AB 959: Reduce Health Disparities for LGBT People Through Data Collection – Authored by assembly member David Chiu, will help LGBT people be seen in the eyes of California by requiring government agencies to collect data about sexual orientation and gender identity where other types of demographic information are already collected.

AB 827: Help Teachers Combat Bullying and Support LGBT Youth – Authored by assembly member Patrick O’Donnell, will give teachers tools and resources to support LGBT students and create safer school environments.

AB 329: California Healthy Youth Act – Authored by assembly member Shirley Weber, strengthens existing law to ensure that students receive accurate, comprehensive, age appropriate and LGBT-inclusive sexual health education. This bill makes our schools safer for LGBT youth by assuring that LGBT people and families are no longer ignored in health classes.

SB 731: Supporting Transgender Foster Youth – Authored by Senator Mark Leno, ensures that all foster kids, including those who identify as transgender, are placed in appropriate homes where they will be safe and accepted. EQCA cosponsored SB 731 with the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Transgender Law Center.

SB 703: Require Companies who Contract with California to

Provide Insurance Benefits to Transgender Employees – Authored

by Senator Mark Leno and cosponsored by EQCA, the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Transgender Law Center. It prohibits state agencies from doing business with companies that don’t offer transgender employees the same healthcare coverage and benefits offered to all other employees.

AB 960: Equal Protection for All Families Act – Authored by assembly member David Chiu, will update laws to protect families using assisted reproduction. EQCA partnered with the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Our Family Coalition to pass this bill, which ensures that parents’ connections to their kids won’t be in jeopardy because of how they were conceived.

AB 87: End Discrimination Against Transgender Jurors – Authored by assembly member Mark Stone, will prohibit discrimination against transgender jurors in the jury selection process. It will also protect against jury selection discrimination based on ethnicity, age, genetic information or disability. Governor Jerry Brown signed this bill into law on July 16.

AJR 16: Resolution on Blood Donation Policies – Authored by assembly members Richard Bloom, Eduardo Garcia and Evan Low, this resolution calls upon President Obama to encourage the Secretary of Health and Human services to direct the FDA to change, once and for all, its outdated and discriminatory policy banning blood donation by gay and bisexual men.

In addition to our sponsored bills, Equality California worked in coalition to strongly support passage of bills sponsored by our coalition partners: SB 4: Expanded Healthcare for Undocumented Immigrants – This bill, by Senator Ricardo Lara, would expand healthcare coverage to low-income undocumented youth. If signed into law, SB 4 will provide coverage under MediCal for some of the over 250,000 undocumented LGBT Californians who are shut out of California’s healthcare system because of their immigration status.

AB 15: End of Life – Authored by assembly member Susan Eggman, this bill would allow mentally competent adults, diagnosed by their doctor as suffering from a terminal illness, access to prescription drugs to end their own lives.

OCTOBER 2015 31

16 ANNUAL HRC GARDEN PARTY TH

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH, 1:30 TO 4:30 PM AT THE ANDREAS HILLS ESTATE OF OUR GRACIOUS HOSTS, JILL & ED PERRY

Welcoming HRC President Chad Griffin and Marriage Equality SCOTUS Plaintiff Jim Obergefell

CHAD GRIFFIN

JIM OBERGEFELL

PURCHASE TICKETS AT: HRC.ORG/PSGARDENPARTY Federal Club Members: $50 per person ~ Non-Federal Club Members: $75 per person Become A Silver Co-Host at $275 (2 tickets to event) or Become a Gold Co-Host at $500 (2 tickets to event + 2 for Friday VIP/Sponsor Party) Individual Ticket Prices Increase by $25 each on Oct 9, 2015 * Corporate Sponsorships Available GARDEN PARTY CO-CHAIRS Dr. Kimberley Yang and Dr. Ossie Saguil

PRESENTING SPONSOR

LEADERSHIP SPONSORS

EQUALITY SPONSORS

VICTORY SPONSORS

PRESENTING MEDIA SPONSOR

MEDIA AND IN-KIND SPONSORS

SKY HARBOR CARE CENTER

JACK REISING JIM BURBA & BRUCE BASTIAN BOB HAYES & CLINT FORD

32 THESTANDARDPS.COM

For More Information: hrcpalmsprings@gmail.com

LESLIE BARCLAY OF PACIFIC WINES

FITNESS

HEALTH MATTERS

BY DENNIS MASON, B.F.A., C.P.T. Before you know it, the festive holiday season will be upon us. Did you ever notice what happens in the media as we approach this time of year? Television commercials and newspaper advertisements begin to focus on health with fitness ads everywhere. Make no mistake, gym memberships, home gyms, and various classes try to put you in-shape and help you strip away those holiday pounds.

The advertisers all claim to be the best or give the quickest results. So, which road do you take? Should you join a health club, or buy a home gym? Should you do aerobics or Pilates? And which is better, rubber exercise bands, Swiss balls, or free weights? Whew, this fitness thing sure is confusing!

The truth is there is no best anything when it comes to personal health and fitness. It’s all about YOU, and what works best for YOU. We are all different. Our make-up, our desires, our needs, and our lifestyles all vary. So rather than look for a quick fix or a secret method for getting and staying in-shape, just follow a few basic truths. Let the following four truths help guide you toward a better understanding of how your body works.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Everything is connected to everything else.

Everything must go somewhere.

There is no such thing as a free lunch.

Mother Nature knows best.

Our bodies and minds are interconnected in much the same fashion as a modern day factory. Our muscles are like the furnaces that burn the fuel to produce energy. The fuel our bodies use is food and water. Our connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels are like the conveyor belts that connect and supply all areas with nutrients, and oxygen. And of course, the mind is the command center, which coordinates the entire operation.

As with any factory, our bodies require proper care and maintenance for optimum operation. That is, for peak physical performance and mental sharpness we need to adhere to a proper health and fitness routine. Since our bodies do not like abrupt changes, it is generally better to ease into a healthier lifestyle, than to make drastic changes all at once. If you have never been on a fitness plan,

or if it has been more than a year since you have, try the following steps to get started.

Evaluate the top three fitness goals that you would like to reach this year, in order of importance. For example: reduce body fat by 20 pounds; tone and firm up muscles; and start eating healthier.

Write down those goals on a sheet of paper and look at it every day.

Structure an exercise plan that will help you reach your fitness goals. For example: to reduce body fat you will need some form of aerobic activity such as jogging, bicycling, or power walking. The corresponding exercises indoors would be a treadmill, and stationary bike. To tone and tighten the muscles, training with weights is one of the best. And to start eating healthier, try to eat more unprocessed food, less sugar and simple carbohydrates, and drink more plain water.

Write this plan down on a sheet of paper. Decide if joining a gym, purchasing some home equipment, or using the great outdoors would be best for you. Sometimes a combination of two or more activities works best.

Of course, it is always a good idea to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Do it! Make it fun! Get together with others on the same track, for added enjoyment. Staying healthy and fit should be fun, as well as beneficial. The bottom line is... Fitness Matters! Without good health and fitness, all the other things we want to do will be difficult to achieve.

If you are still uncertain as to what is right for you, or how to get started contact me from the information below.

Dennis is a certified Personal Trainer and Master Fitness Coach with over 40 years’ experience. NPC bodybuilding competitor, charity cyclist, health and fitness motivational speaker and author.

Body Sculpting - Nutritional Guidance - Aquatics & Post Rehab Conditioning www.dennismasonfitness.com or dennis@dennismasonfitness. com Phone: 760-219-5877 Home Base: WORLD GYM PALM SPRINGS Join Dennis on his internet radio program, FITNESS & MORE, on at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/FitnessAndMore.

Also on Facebook and Twitter as fitnessradio.

OCTOBER 2015 33

34 THESTANDARDPS.COM

WELLNESS

WHERE HAVE ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GONE?

BY DR. KENNETH TOTH, BA, MAT, DC, RN, CPT

There have been many articles over the last twenty years or so about the demise of living things in nature which, as children, we took totally for granted. There were lots and lots of interesting things to marvel at, such as all kinds, sizes and colors of butterflies. They were ubiquitous! Wherever there were blossoms, there were butterflies.

We even learned to identify the many different kinds. And most kids even put together awesome butterfly collections at one time or another for a school science project.

If we lived in a rural or even suburban area, there was always a creek or stream or pond somewhere nearby where we could collect live tadpoles and watch them turn into frogs!

There were bumblebees, honeybees and frogs galore! Honeybees were constantly “working” the fields and gardens to gather nectar from beautiful blossoms, and we all know their indirect efforts were to cross-pollenate plants. Colony Collapse Disorder hadn’t become an item of conversation. And when was the last time you saw a real frog?

Delicious freshwater fish were aplenty in streams and rivers and lakes all over the country, free for the fishing!

There was a plethora of birds of all kinds and colors, and we learned to identify them by their tunes.

Drinking water was free of toxic chemicals that are hard to pronounce having found their way into the ground waters or aquafers.

And direct sun didn’t burn our skin in five minutes of summer exposure without sunscreen.

Asthma, especially among children, was a rare thing. And cancer in children was relatively nonexistent compared to today, not to mention the escalating incidence of adult cancers.

Alzheimer’s Disease hadn’t grown to the epidemic proportions that exist today, whereby it’s projected that it will become one of three major causes of death in the near future.

Obesity wasn’t rampant, and diabetes was certainly not a major affliction.

Physicians did not have to exercise caution when hospitalizing a patient for fear of his/her contracting a drug-resistant infection that could prove to be the demise of the patient rather than the pathology

necessitating hospitalization in the first place.

People seemed to get a lot more exercise because there were still push lawnmowers, and snow blowers were a luxury.

People actually washed their own cars, with all that reaching and stretching, and waxed them too!

There were gardens, and families even worked in them on a regular basis, stooping and weeding and hoeing and picking all those vegetables, each of which actually had its own rich flavor. And fresh grapes didn’t make our mouths pucker up from all the pesticides that were applied to them!

People lifted and shoved and pushed and reached and squatted and walked, all to their physical benefit!

Now, fast-forward to the present. What has happened? Are there any dots to be connected? And if so, what are they? Think about it.

Dr. Kenneth Toth, BA, MAT, DC, RN, CPT holds multiple degrees and credentials as a Science Educator, Chiropractor, Registered Nurse, and Personal Trainer.

He is currently limiting his professional activities to PERSONAL TRAINING / Nutritional Coaching, and is accepting new clients exclusively at WORLD GYM PALM SPRINGS. You may contact Dr. Ken at 949-235-9408 or ken@kentothfitness.com For more information on Dr. Ken’s results-producing approach to personal training, please visit his website at KenTothFitness.com.

OCTOBER 2015 35

THE AMAZON TRAIL

LESBIAN VACATIONS

BY LEE LYNCH

Right this minute, friends are traveling through France. I am excited for them—the vacation of a lifetime. They post photos of their adventures on Facebook so I’m following them across France: Paris, Cassis, Marseilles, geocaching in Aix-en-Provence!

I’m not much of a traveler myself. When my sweetheart asked where I’d like to go for my birthday, I gave the usual answer: nowhere. Then I reconsidered. We’ve been trying to get over to Crater Lake, a geographic wonder filled with the bluest water in the world. We have friends along the way, two of whom have birthdays on either side of mine so it would have been fun to celebrate my 70th with them.

The birthdays happen during the Pacific Northwest’s prime fire season. Like most animals, human or not, I don’t do well under smoke-filled skies. Still, I’d gotten a bit excited about a short vacation. Who wouldn’t? This would be our first, ever, alonetogether, no-deadlines, event-free time off—kind of a mini honeymoon.

Back east, when I took vacations, I’d usually travel to Provincetown, Massachusetts.

So did a lot of other gay people. I felt comfortable there holding another woman’s hand on the street. Often, of course, these destinations became zoos where non-gays could observe and mock our otherness, our mating rituals, our gloriously outrageous entertainers.

Things are different now. No need to seek out a gaycation destination. We decided to avoid the inland threats and travel down the coast. We went as far as the Redwood forests, turned all touristy, and visited The Trees of Mystery in Klamath, California. It was terrific G-rated nuclear-

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family-type fun—one of Mother Nature’s theme parks—even without gay compatriots around us, though I wondered about the two motorcycle guys in leather. I could have waggled my pinky ring at them, but they never looked our way. We felt safe holding hands everywhere on the grounds.

My favorite things about the Trees of Mystery were: the colossal trees (overawing), the gondola ride above the trees (which we did twice), hiking the easy trail (also twice), and learning life is good, even at age 70.

I treated myself to a Three Musketeers Bar, my sweetheart had a Babe’s Blue Berry Frozen Daiquiri topped with whipped cream (named for Paul Bunyon’s Babe the Blue Ox).

A perfect day.

By the time we returned to our motel my sweetheart had every symptom of the flu. I put her to bed and raced to Safeway for Dayquil, Nyquil, a thermometer and orange juice.

I suspect anyone fortunate enough to be able to take a vacation risks falling apart at the first incredible moment of breathing free. I know I have. After spending a big chunk of time working and taking care of home, dependents, bills, and every other

detail of daily life, if you even hint to your body that it’s time to relax, beware. Your immune system may throw in the towel and let the rough-and-tumble germs stampede.

My sweetheart is a good sport. She wasn’t about to ruin our vacation or my birthday. The next morning she insisted on visiting the local farmers’ market with me.

She sat in the car while I plunged into the excited energy of the noisy vendors and shoppers. I was looking for late melons and found my birthday present as well. It’s a red, handmade, oversized, slatted wood cat on wheels that wiggles as you pull it (pictured). I tried to pass it by. I only wanted it for decorative purposes, not to play with, honest. My sweetheart named her Clovis.

We went for a little ride off the main drag. Just followed our noses and ended up at a body of water called Dead Lake.

Looked for live birds, saw middle-aged couples fishing (not everything was dead) and two homeless guys warming up on the boat launch dock. Found a small airport and watched a commuter plane land.

Put my sweetheart back to bed and went

looking for the hidden Shangri-La of a park I’d found years ago. It was impossibly overgrown and the dirt road had potholes the depth of Dead Lake. Guys were coming out of the brush with skateboards under their arms. Shangri-La no more.

Our long weekend went on like that.

Lots of quirky surprises. Lots of sleeping for my sweetheart, lots of reading for me.

Breakfasting on motel grub and the seeded baguette we brought from home. (Were our friends in France eating baguettes too?) Take out dinners from eateries recommended by locals. Long walks around the harbor for me, snapping photos as I went of dandied up trailer park spaces and surfers in the tame waves. Sitting at the open motel window watching the harbor, falling asleep to the music of barking harbor seals and a fog horn.

One day we drove on a fiendishly narrow gravel road through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park where my sweetheart felt good enough to accompany me on my annual birthday walk over a bridge (all 60 steps of it). This bridge spanned a tributary of the gloriously wild Smith River.

We stopped at every park and Ranger station we passed. My sweetheart, on shaky legs, used a walking stick to gather maps

and, our passion, post cards! I bought a souvenir mug. My sweetheart bought a souvenir watch cap. We found gifts for friends and family. We took more pictures, especially of old buildings and exotic manzanita trees. Such tourists we were!

We drove halfway home and stopped at another seaside town. My sweetheart had splurged on a room high above the ocean, which was prescient of her because the flu wasn’t about to let finish the trip in one day. As we approached the town we saw, then smelled, oily-looking yellow smoke roiling overhead like poisonous steam from a cauldron. We thought the smoke had reached us from the hot, dry east! But no, it was a 60 to 70 acre gorse fire just outside town, started by the backfire of an ATV on the dunes. Gorse burns ferociously and had once leveled that whole town. Our room escaped everything but the soggy smell.

We continued on home, our cooler filled with leftover take out, anxious to get the invalid into our own bed and rested. She was due at work in the morning. Our friends are posting pictures of Saint-Remy-de-Provence today, including Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s asylum. Our camera is filled with ghost signs on old West brick buildings. Lesbian vacations, as varied and quirky as lesbians.

OCTOBER 2015 37

EPICUREAN

HOSTING THE PERFECT PRIDE BRUNCH Brunch is a sacred tradition in many gay circles. As Pride season sets sail bringing old and new friends together, throwing a brunch is sure to be the highlight of the social scene.

Think about it: You can still sleep in, alcoholic beverages (a.k.a. “day drinking”) are welcome, and the simple menu makes stylish buffets a breeze while allowing even the least talented chefs to host.

1. Keep it simple with a buffet - Use place cards to label your dishes so guests know what they’re putting on their plates. Serve a simple yet decadent spread of bagels, cream cheese, cut cucumber, onion, tomato, smoked salmon, and move the toaster to the table for self-serve brunch bliss.

2. Easy eating equals optimal seating – Stick to bite sized portions wherever possible. It facilitates noshing and minimizes the need for a lot of silverware or sit-downs. Try silver-dollar pancakes, French toast bites (cube the bread before you cook), and cut fruit and pastries into single portions.

3. Dazzle with drinks – Give the people what they really want at any party: festive libations. Break out the blender for real-fruit daiquiris, refreshing mint juleps, or stick to the simple gold standard of great brunch, mimosas. Have a bucket of cold beers on ice to please all palates. Pull out all the stops with an awesome Bloody Mary bar — it’s interactive fun, easy access drinking, and memorably special with minimal legwork.

4. Enhance the mood – Play campy Saturday morning cartoons like He-Man on the TV to get the good morning vibes going. Try a group favorite film like Priscilla Queen of The Desert and get a drinking game going. Play Celebrity, get a few copies of the newspaper to tackle the crosswords in teams, and once everyone’s loosened up, suggest a rousing round of Twister or dirty Scrabble.

5. Go off the beaten (egg) path – Not into the boring, expected brunch route? Stand out with a dim sum brunch, try traditional Mexican chilaquiles and breakfast burritos or traditional tea service, indulge with a French pastry fest, or, if your group is in the bodyconscious set, challenge the group to potluck a healthier brunch menu.

6. No chef? No problem – Brunch is perfect for the host with the most who can hardly cook. Stock up on fresh fruits (whatever’s

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in season and on sale), and set out large bowls filled to double as centerpieces and snacks. Stick to a store bought menu like this.

7. Share the schlep – It’s perfectly OK to ask for a little help.

(Control freaks: re-read that last sentence until it sinks in!) Ask some close friends who are like family if they wouldn’t mind bringing a six-pack of beer, their famous muffins, or arriving an hour early to help set up your spread. You’d be surprised how eager to help true friends are for the good of a good party.

8. Know your numbers – You get about six full glasses of champagne from a bottle. A baker’s dozen will give you 13 bagels.

Take a moment to see how much you’ll need to provide to satiate your guests. Keep extra on hand of essentials like beer, booze, and a portion of a main dish, in the kitchen cause this party will be a hit (duh!) and is likely draw a few RSVP stragglers.

9. Assign party zones – Consider the best place for the hightraffic buffet table. Arrange seating at a comfortable distance. Put the bar against a far wall to avoid gridlock. Keep the water fights outside! Make room for a dance floor or karaoke area by the TV if your group loves to ham it up. No shoes in the house? Provide a basket by the door.

10. Prep your party for perfection – Bake fresh scones and arrange flowers the night before. Create a menu on poster board with special Pride-themed names for food and drinks (i.e.: a mimosa = “Queen Dream,” mini pancakes = “Twinkcakes,” etc.). Bake extra biscotti and wrap two up for each guest to take home. Set up a table with a Polaroid, paper, marker, and all your scarves, hats, and gag gear for a makeshift photo booth. Between the provided Polaroid and camera phones, your friends will have a field day snapping away.

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ART VIEW

CHUCK GUMPERT “Painting is just another way of keeping a diary” - Pablo Picasso Chuck Gumpert majored in art at Cypress College in California, studying the gamut from drawing and painting, to illustration and advertising design —and most importantly, specialization in what at the time was the still-emerging field of computer graphics, photo manipulation, and desktop publishing.

After a semester in Europe, a move to Seattle, and a five-year stint as a graphic designer at the University of Washington — he found himself at Gig Harbor, Washington painting!

Now he enjoys a studio setting in a 1915 farmhouse in Port Orchard, Washington. New surroundings have fostered new inspiration, freedom and experimentation — his journey continues to challenge and excite!

His works are influenced and inspired by what he considers “abstract” music: Björk, Radiohead, R.E.M., Muse; and the symphonic work have Philip Glass and others. To Gumpert, the beauty of these types of music, is the lyrical and sonic experimentation — at once discordant, minimalist, harmonic, and nonsensical — which conveys all manner of emotions, images, and narratives.

Gumpert taps into a creative pulse and power at the core of his being, the earth and the universe. He brings visual language to the viewer to be interpreted on the most personal of levels. He says his works simply transport him into another world.

Gumpert explains, “Each new piece is an exploration — the canvas tells me where to go and the colors and tools are the vehicles to get there. My pieces are expressive, energetic, moody and thought provoking. I have been experimental in subject and technique — yet without confining myself to formula or habit.”

Represented by Brian Marki Fine Art Palm Springs, gallery owner Brian Marki says of Gumpert’s works, “The thing I think is most powerful about Chuck’s paintings is how he brings excitement with his use of color; which can be interpreted by the individual viewer as a very personal story.”

Explore Chuck Gumpert’s work online at www.brianmarkifineart. com or www.chuckgumpert.com. Or stop by Brian Marki Fine Art & Framing, 170 E. Arenas Road, in downtown Palm Springs.

Gallery hours: Monday – Saturday, 11am to 5pm.

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OCTOBER 2015 41

WHAT WE DO: • Daily hot nutritious meal to over 135 people a day, 6 days a week.

• Sack lunches daily –over 1200 a week served.

• Phone and mail service.

• Morning coffee, rolls and fruit.

• Showers daily.

• Furniture for people in need.

• Clothing for job interviews and those who need them.

• Assistance with food stamps, MISP, id’s and more.

• Utility assistance.

• Rental assistance.

• Free notary service.

• Resume writing assistance.

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• One way tickets home.

• Saturday food distribution of healthy foods to working families, seniors, veterans, the disabled, families with children.

• Emergency food boxes.

• Some transportation to medical and social service appointments.

• Van transportation to hot lunch sites.

• Home deliveries to seniors who are homebound or frail.

• “Well Assist” program to downtown merchants and other business owners.

• Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations for all in need. Christmas presents for all the children.

• Well houses available for long-term group family living, and emergenies.

• A family-friendly environment where all can feel welcome, cared about, and respected.

OCTOBER 2015 43

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the3D’s RESTAURANTS WANG’S IN THE DESERT 424 S Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 325-WANG (9264) www.wangsinthedesert.com NATURE’S HEALTH FOOD & CAFE 555 S Sunrise Way Suite 301 Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 323-9487 www.natureshealthfoodcafe.com SHERMAN’S DELI & BAKERY 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-1199 www.shermansdeli.com HACIENDA CANTINA & BEACH CLUB 1555 S. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-778-8954 www.haciendacantina.com AZUL RESTAURANT 369 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-5533 www.azultapaslounge.com TINTO 1800 E. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-323-1711 palmsprings.tintorestaurant.com COPLEY’S ON PALM CANYON 621 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-9555 www.copleyspalmsprings.com

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DINE | DRINK | DANCE { Coachella Valley } WORKSHOP KITCHEN & BAR 800 N. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-459-3451 www.workshoppalmsprings.com LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO 200 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-5858 www.lulupalmsprings.com POMME FRITE 256 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 778-3727 www.pomme-frite.com DISH 1107 N. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-322-7171 www.dishcreativecuisine.com THAI SMILE PALM SPRINGS 100 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 320-5503 www.thaismilepalmsprings.com TRIO RESTAURANT 707 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 864-8746 www.triopalmsprings.com THE TROPICALE 330 E Amado Road Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 866-1952 www.thetropicale.com

BARS AND NIGHT CLUBS

ZIN AMERICAN BISTRO 198 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 322-6300 www.pszin.com

HUNTERS NIGHTCLUB 302 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-323-0700 www.huntersnightclubs.com

BIRBA 622 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-5678 www.birbaps.com

TOUCAN’S TIKI LOUNGE 2100 North Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-416-7584 www.toucanstikilounge.com

CHEEKYS 622 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-7595 www.cheekysps.com

PURPLE ROOM 1900 E. Palm Canyon Dr. PS 760-322-4422 www.purpleroompalmsprings.com

EL MIRASOL 140 E Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 323-0721 www.elmirasolrestaurants.com RICK’S RESTAURANT 1973 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (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

CHILL BAR 217 E. Arenas Road PS 760-327-1079 STREETBAR 224 E. Arenas Road PS 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 SPURLINE VIDEO LOUNGE 200 Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760-778-4326 www.spurline.com

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COMING UP NEXT MONTH IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN OUR ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE OCTOBER 2015 47

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EVENTS CALENDAR OCT 9-12 MODERNISM WEEK FALL PREVIEW PALM SPRINGS Modernism Week will host its Fall Preview over the Columbus Day holiday weekend, Oct. 9-12, in the Greater Palm Springs area, and tickets go on sale Aug. 1. Highlights during the four-day schedule include a festive opening night Preview Reception at the Modernism Show & Sale – Fall Edition, in its new location at the Palm Springs Air Museum.

The Modernism Show & Sale at the Palm Springs Air Museum will feature 40 premier national and international dealers offering furniture, decorative and fine arts representing all design movements of the 20th century, and introducing 21st century items. www.modernismweek.com

OCT 25 UNDER & OUT 4: CHARITY FASHION SHOW BENEFIT FOR DAP Poolside reception and fashion show featuring women’s and men’s swimwear, and men’s underwear designs. DJ and celebrity emcees provide entertainment as models show off top brands from C-IN2, Diesel, Tribe, BWET, Mr. Turk, Prima Donna, Esther Williams and Bettie Page retro swim lines, and others. The Saguaro Palm Springs 1800 E Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, Free admission – Food & drink available for purchase; $250 VIP Tables. www.desertaidsproject.org

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OCT 5 Mixer 6:00pm – 8:00pm Co-hosted by The Five Hundred Offices, Rabobank, & RJ Insurance and Financial Services 500 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs OCT 19 Mixer 6:00pm – 8:00pm Greg Barton CPA 777 e. Tahquitz Canyon Way Suite 320 Palm Springs www.desertbusinessassociation.org ONGOING >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

CHILL BAR PALM SPRINGS A warm and fabulous twenty first century modern venue located on Arenas, suited with multi faceted rooms for any celebration. The gorgeous island bar is surrounded by hi-definition video entertainment and a comfortable designer lounge. Chill on the patio enjoying music and refreshing beverages with friends after a game of pool, or come by and say hello to our friendly staff. Open for business seven days a week. Get out of the heat, and come join us! Happy Hour (From Open to 7pm) and Late Happy Hour (From Midnight to Last Call) $4 Well Drinks, $2.75 Bud Light & $1.50 Chill Lager. www.chillbarpalmsprings.com

THE SUNDAY BAND W/ SPECIAL GUESTS. PAPPY & HARRIET’S PIONEERTOWN The Sunday Rock + Roll Service is a Pappy and Harriet’s institution celebrating the healing powers of music and community!

Every weekend the club’s favorite singers and players get together and trade songs.

Come join us to see Victoria Williams, Gar Robertson, Carol Ann Crandall, Damian Lester, Bob Furgo, Rachel Dean, Ryan Norman, Caleb Winn, Danny Frankel and other talented locals performing for your drinking and dancing pleasure. With a come-as-you-are vibe, Sundays have seen great special guests like Robert Plant, Lucinda Williams, The Jayhawks, Rickie Lee Jones to name a few. www.pappyandharriets.com

CARNIVAL CABARET. OSCAR’S CAFÉ & BAR. PALM SPRINGS Carnival Cabaret is a high-end female impersonator revue. This production has traveled throughout the country with performances in casinos, theaters and for corporate events.

Carnival Cabaret features the world’s most amazing cast of men who perform as famous women. You will not believe your eyes! Veteran TV and film actor James

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Gypsy Haake, who holds the record for the oldest working female impersonator in the world, hosts the show. Haake is 83 years old and has been seen in films and television since the 1980s. Shows run every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Dinner show seating begins at 6:30pm. Show only seating begins at 7:30pm. Showtime is 8pm. Tickets start at $29.95.

Tickets: carnivalcabaret.ticketleap.com

COPA In a throwback to old Palm Springs’ nightclubs, the Copa is fashioned around an elevated performing stage and a stunning u-shaped bar lined with leather barstools, upholstered booths, and gilded cocktail tables. Sink into the sexy lounge, sip a cocktail, and enjoy the lineup of local and guest entertainers. For weekly schedule visit www.coparoomps.com

THE PURPLE ROOM Supper club, drinks and live music. It’s where Palm Springs plays. Great entertainment nightly and dinner specials. You never know whom you might see at The Purple Room.

For monthly schedule and info visit www.thepurpleroompalmsprings.com

OSCAR’S CAFÉ & BAR Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs on the corner of Tahquitz Canyon Way and Indian Canyon, Oscar’s has a huge outdoor patio with lots of umbrellas for shade and misters to keep you cool, too.

You can beat the heat any time of year and enjoy the views of Palm Springs. On Saturday and Sunday from 8am – 2pm, enjoy a $9 Bottomless Mimosas (juice included), a single $2 mimosa or a $5 Bloody Mary with brunch, during which both our full breakfast and lunch menus are available. Also join us for Sunday Funday Weekly Tea Dance 4pm-Close! Live entertainment weekly visit our website for details. www.oscarspalmsprings.com

LIPSTICK AT COPA Thursday nights at Copa just got a little hotter with a new show at the new showroom inside Copa. The Hot New Lipstick show is a raucous affair where the audience is encouraged to participate in singing, clapping, dancing, partying and celebrating special events. Featuring performances by Charles Herrera, Pinkie Meringue Shimmer, Marina Mac, Sassy Ross, Dion Khan, and Cherilyn, and emceed by the fabulous Bella Da Ball, this show will not disappoint. For ticket info and schedule of performers visit www.coparoomps.com

HUNTERS NIGHTCLUBS® Palm Springs, Palm Springs’ go-to gay bar and dance club, has been leading the way in fullout fun for 16 years now! And we keep it pumping, making it better for you all the time with our unparalleled event line-up.

We enjoy having the desert’s most soughtafter and friendly DJs, full-on themed events, and a staff that has it all without the attitude. And of course, we are proud to hold the longest happy hour in the entire Valley. Remember: Size Matters. Come by for our happy hour from 10am – 7pm.

Yes, that’s right: 9 hours long! For a list of all events and specials visit www.huntersnightclubs.com

SUNDAYS “The Playgirls” at Toucans Tiki Lounge featuring Tommi Rose. Performances at 8 & 10pm.These darling Divas of drag really deliver with their very own brand of entertainment to packed houses. Special guests appear weekly. DJ in the sound booth.

Every Sunday Complete list of events www.toucanstikilounge.com FOR A COMPLETE CALENDAR OF EVENTS VISIT OUR MEDIA PARTNER, GAY DESERT GUIDE. CLICK ON LOGO

OCTOBER 2015 49

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EVENTS CALENDAR on showcasing LGBTQIA musicians and performers. Stargayzer will deliver the finest LGBTQIA musicians, DJ’s, MC’s, drag performers, visual artists, comedians and performance artists from around the globe.

The festival will span across 3 downtown venues throughout the weekend. www.stargayzerfest.com

OCT 9 - 18

SOUTHWEST GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO The Southwest Gay and Lesbian Film Festival returns for its 13th year; programming some of the best in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ) films. Running October 9-18, this year’s film festival offers audiences a wide cinematic range including everything from feature length comedies and dramas to documentaries and short films. Many awardwinning international films will be showcased.

Tickets and passes can now be purchased online at www.swglff.com

OCT 15 - 17

STARGAYZER FESTIVAL. AUSTIN, TEXAS The Stargayzer Festival is an annual 3-day celebration of LGBTQIA music and performance, held in Austin, Texas on October 15-17, 2015. For 3 days and 3 nights, Austin will be host to a vibrant, all-inclusive festival community focused

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OCT 18 - 24

SONOMA - NAPA WINE & FOOD LOVERS TOUR. SAN FRANCISCO, CA If tasting wine with wine makers, personal winery tours, viticulture, wine and food pairings and enjoying the great outdoors are what you’re looking for, then join PrideOne Travel and Cruises on the exciting Sonoma - Napa Wine and Food Lovers Tour. We will tour exceptional wineries and taste great wines. We go behind the scenes, places reserved for special guests, and learn from the best wine makers anywhere. www.gaywinetour.com

OCT 29 - NOV 1

PALM SPRINGS LEATHER PRIDE PALM SPRINGS, CA Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert announces Palm Springs Leather Pride 2015 to be held on October 29 - November 1. Come enjoy a great weekend of pool parties, dinners, dances and the Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest. It will be held the

weekend before Palm Springs Gay Pride, consider making it 10 days of PRIDE! Come for Palm Springs Leather Pride and stay for Palm Springs Gay pride the following weekend. www.desertleatherpride.com

OCT 30 - 31

HALLOWEENIE X LOS ANGELES, CA Halloweenie X is coming on the Eve of All Hallows Eve: Friday, October 30, 2015.

Fred & Jason’s 10th Annual Halloweenie is the hottest Halloween fundraiser. The “Party with a Purpose” benefits GMCLA’s programmatic work, including: Alive Music Project, and the “It gets better Tour”! Join us at our new location, The Majestic Downtown, for a night of costume required event featuring open bars, world renowned DJ’s, feverish dancing, celebs, killer photo ops, VIP areas, private cabanas and more. www.gmcla.org

OCT 31 - NOV 7

ADVENTURE BEARS CRUISE 2015 SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO If you’re looking for a stress free, fun, upscale memorable vacation experience and an opportunity to make lasting friendships, Adventure Bears is for you.

You can choose be social and active or just chill out and relax. Our cruise will appeal to the more relaxed yet fun loving guys.

We offer the best of both worlds with rates far lower than gay chartered ships.

Our 2015 adventure we will be sailing on the Celebrity Summit. This very chic ship will depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico on October 31st. Our seven night cruise travels to the beautiful islands of Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten and St. Thomas. www.adventurebears.com

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EVENTS CALENDAR

OCT 7 - 13

BLACK & BLUE FESTIVAL MONTREAL, CANADA For its 25th Anniversary, the Black & Blue adds some red and presents a theme inspired by the “District red light Montréal“, while highlighting, at the same time, Montreal’s nightlife reputation over the years. Starting with the prohibition days, the roaring twenties and the cabaret heydays of the fifties for example, Montreal obtained an enviable reputation as a festive city and one of the world’s hot spots, recognized for its clubs, its bars and its cabarets. This made our metropolis the queen of entertainment and nightlife, some features that still define Montreal today. The 2015 Black & Blue theme and the shows that will be featured during the main event will be inspired by the burlesque, variety shows, glamour, and sensuality. www.bbcm.org

and gay hotel resorts for all tastes. Everyday the gay resorts will be hosting pool parties, where you can strip off your fetish clothes, relax in the sunshine and hang out with sexy guys. Some gay resorts are also clothing optional, and have special outdoor cruising areas for play! The event will also be an opportunity to raise much needed funding for the local HIV charity ACES (Amigos Contra El Sida/Friends against AIDS), who help support people living with HIV in Gran Canarias. www.maspalomasfetishweek.com

OCT 15 - 19

TEL AVIV WATER GAMES 2015 TEL AVIV, ISRAEL Join us for Tel Aviv Water Games 2015 an international LGBT sports and cultural festival happening October 15 - 19, 2015 in Tel Aviv, Israel. For the first time ever, the festival will unite the freedom of gay Tel Aviv with an international sports event on the shores of beautiful Tel Aviv. www.tlvwatergames.com

OCT 20 - 25

HAMBURG GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL HAMBURG, GERMANY This year taking place for the 26th time, the Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in Hamburg is the biggest and longest-running festival of its kind in Germany. It represents the full spectrum of productions emerging from the gay and lesbian film scene and offers a forum for high-caliber film making with a social agenda. It also features a supporting program of discussions, workshops and festival parties as well as a daily gettogethers. www.lsf-hamburg.de

OCT 18 - 25

OCT 10 - 18

MASPALOMAS FETISH WEEK CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN The Maspalomas Fetish Week is an annual international event for men into fetish gear and play. The event is predominantly held in and around the Yumbo Center in Playa del Ingles, on the Spanish island of Gran Canarias. Famous for its nocturnal gay scene, all year fantastic weather, and very relaxed attitude, there are men only bars, sex clubs

FANTASIA FAIR LISBON, PORTUGAL Fantasia Fair is a week-long transgender event held every October in the LGBT resort town of Provincetown, Massachusetts. Part conference, part social gathering, the Fair is a “full immersion” experience, meaning that attendees can and usually do spend an entire week 24/7 presenting their gender as they wish. Started in 1975, “Fan Fair” is the oldest and longest-running event of it’s kind. Every year the Fair grows in its scope, character, and assistance to the gender explorer. Fantasia Fair continues to be the leading annual program promoting a gendervariant individual’s ability to thrive in real-life situations. www.fantasiafair.org

Our international media partner, FNQ Magazine, www.fnqmagazine.com Cairns gay lifestyle and travel publication that gives Australia and the world a taste of gay life in the tropics, sponsors the International Calendar. www.go2gaycairns.com

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presents

CENTER STAGE THE CENTER’S

SIXTH ANNUAL

FRIDAY October 30

@ The Riviera Resort & Spa

2015

BENEFITTING THE LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT

Reception/Auction 5:30PM Dinner/Showtime 7 PM

starring

Returning as emcee the always hilarious and quick-witted

ALEX NEWELL

The powerful & mesmerizing singer as Unique as his character on Glee.

LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT: RECIPIENT: Randy Lowe | VANGUARD AWARD RECIPIENT: Kate Kendell

CENTER

the

KATE CLINTON

the heart of our community

FOR TICKETING INFORMATION: visit www.thecenterps.org or call 760-416-7790

sponsors

#pscenterstage2015

media partners

DAVID HOOD & GEORGE SELLERS RANDY LOWE

LARRY FALCONIO & ELLIOTT SERNEL PEGGY CRAVENS

ARNIE KASSOY GEOFF KORS & JAMES WILLIAMSON

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CHARLES ROBBINS & DAMON ROMINE

JUDY GORDON

PHOTO REWIND EIGHT4NINE GRAND OPENING PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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concours VII presented by

Buy raffle tickets to win this 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Convertible!

Buy th Cutla

October 24, 2015, 10 AM 24, to 32015, PM 10 AM to 3 P October Desert Princess Country Clu Desert Princess Country Club 28-555 Landau Blvd., Cathedral City A Nonprofit Serving Children and Adults with Disabilities

28-555 Landau Blvd., Cathedral City Benefiting Mizell Senior Center and A ADMISSION $10 people with disabilit serving

Benefiting Mizell Contact Senior Centergreatautospsarea@gmail.com and Angel View, serving people with disabilities or visit greatautos.org for m Contact greatautospsarea@gmail.com or visit greatautos.org for more information

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PHOTO REWIND CINEMA DIVERSE PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND VELVET AT THE PALM HOUSE PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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