The Standard Magazine

MARCH, 2016 | VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 THESTANDARDPS.COM

THE FUTURE

OF MUSIC PADDLING AGAI NST T H E ST REAM

A NEW BREED

UP & COMING LGBT MUSIC ARTISTS

CONTENTS VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3

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DESIGN BY MAYA KALABIC

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Volume 4 Issue 3 FEATURE UP & COMING LGBT MUSICIANS PAGES 16 - 18

COVER THE FUTURE OF MUSIC PADDLING AGAINST THE STREAM COVER GLOBAL MUSIC TOP WORLDWIDE MUSIC FESTS FEATURE NEW BREED UP AND COMING LGBT MUSIC ARTISTS PSP FOCUS TIME FOR THE LADIES GREAT EVENTS IN MARCH

HURRAY FOR THE RIFF RAFF

MARCH 2016 3

COMMENTARY

The Standard Magazine PO Box 2074, Palm Springs, CA 92263 760-831-4869 Nino Eilets Publisher Luciano McNulty Editor Maya Kalabic Art Director Photographer David A. Lee Contributors Jeff Dorta, Chris Heritage, Shawn Larkin, Lee Lynch, Dennis Mason, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Pinkie Merengue Shimmer, Martha Tang & Ken Toth 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.

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COVER PADDLING AGAINST THE STREAM CLUB ARTISTS FIGHT TO SURVIVE THE DIGITAL AGE

BY SHAWN LARKIN

Adele and Taylor Swift are making loads of money as their honest song writing, paired with catchy tunes, top the charts with platinum sales. Yet, they are proving to be the exception to the rule.

It turns out that while the ability to be heard is at its highest point in history, most artists, songwriters, label owners and practically everyone else working in music today, are struggling to get by.

It’s not big news that album sales are down. Both physical CDs and digital downloads have been struggling for some time because, as we all know by now, consumers don’t feel the need or responsibility to pay for music they want.

It’s all about streaming these days anyway. Even Apple, creator of iTunes, now has Apple Music, a streaming service to rival Spotify and Soundcloud. The streaming companies have enabled musicians to make money based on the number of stream requests they receive.

It turns out, however, it’s chump change. Kevin Kadish, co-writer of Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass”, revealed he earned a mere $5,679 from the nearly 2 million streams and 1 billion YouTube views his song received.

So what is a club artist to do? We polled some of the leading dance floor artists on their thoughts of thriving – or at least surviving - in the digital age.

ULTRA NATE A veteran recording artist for over twenty-five years, Ultra has hit the top of the pop charts multiple times with songs like “Free” and “If You Could Read My Mind”. Her latest album, Hero Worship, blends rock, dance, electro, house, pop, and even some R&B. Follow Ultra Nate on Twitter and Facebook: @ ultranatemusic How is the digital age for music artists today?

The digital age has made it both easier and harder for artists. It is a double edge sword. On the one hand you have an oversaturated market and extremely decreased revenue streams. On the other hand you have more exposure and an opportunity to have your music in the marketplace and available to your fan base with or without major label backing.

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How do you get your music today?

I primarily buy music through iTunes or digital retail stores. I don’t really utilize subscription services because I have very mixed emotions about them. They do not pay artists fairly, however they do offer a certain level of exposure. It’s a love/hate relationship.

Are compact discs obsolete?

They are and it’s sad. I’ve always preferred tangible objects to digital. There is an emotional connection to music conveyed through the art and credits on a sleeve. It was most prevalent with vinyl. I would study the covers of my favorite albums from front to back.

What are your thoughts on Kanye West, Beyonce and Rihanna releasing their music exclusively through Tidal?

It will be interesting to see how it goes as everyone scrambles to figure out how to make things work. It’s all very experimental at the moment. But the great position Kanye West, Beyonce and Rihanna are in is that their fan base will find their music. Their machines are big enough.

Is pirating still a big problem?

Pirating is a big issue because it has bred a culture that does not see the value in buying music.

What have you found to be a great tool to help get your music out to the masses?

Social networking is really the strongest tool artists have to connect directly with their fans. Sadly, the social networks realize it and are now monetizing the opportunity, so once again we’re back in the spiral of having to pay for the exposure.

ATHENA RIPKA At 18, Athena’s already appeared on the stages of Broadway, the Metropolitan Opera, and the New York City Ballet. This month, she makes her move to the dance floor with “Lithium”, a high-energy track produced by Manny Mijares (Kelly Rowland, Snoop Dogg) and Damon Sharpe (Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, Anastacia) with remixes by Razor & Guido, Dan De Leon and Liam Keegan. It’s currently #7 on Billboard. Follow Athena Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat: @athenaripka How is the digital age for music artists today?

On one hand, iTunes, YouTube, and the streaming services have made it easier for independent artists, because without a label, artists are able to release their own music and possibly gain a fan base. At the same time, because it is now so easy, the market is saturated with talented people posting videos and music. It can be difficult for an artist to get noticed and to establish him or herself amongst the masses. Now, in addition to fantastic music and talent and a brand, an artist is also expected to have millions of views and followers for a label to take notice.

How do you get your music today?

I use Soundcloud, Spotify, and iTunes. Now that iTunes also has Apple Music, it is better then ever. iTunes is my favorite. If I am out and I hear song I like but have never heard, I use Shazam and it brings me right to iTunes to buy it.

Are compact discs obsolete?

They are a nice keepsake. I have a signed Michael Jackson CD that I will never give up! But, yes, CDs are outdated. They scratch and take up a lot of space. It is much easier to have access to all my music on my phone. Opening up a case and putting it into a CD player takes much longer and it’s not practical to carry around CDs and CD players.

What are your thoughts on Kanye West, Beyonce and Rihanna releasing their music exclusively through Tidal?

I respect them for trying to protect their music, however, as a consumer, it makes the music less accessible. My crowd doesn’t use Tidal and we prefer to purchase our music on iTunes or listen to it on Soundcloud or Spotify.

Is pirating still a big problem?

Yes, a huge problem. It not only hurts the songwriters, recording artists, producers, and engineers, but many other people in the music industry. It’s resulted in massive lay offs. Also, with less money, labels are not spending as much money developing artists. They would rather put their efforts into established acts. The problem is that pirating is theft, however many people don’t really see it as wrong because there is no stigma associated with it.

What have you found to be a great tool to help get your music out to the masses?

I have found Soundcloud and YouTube helpful in getting my music out there. It’s also a great way to connect with other artists. I have met producers and DJs that I later collaborated with on Soundcloud. We can be on opposite sides of the globe and work together because it’s so easy to send files back and forth electronically.

RAPH SOLO Raph Solo has made a career singing openly about issues like open relationships, safe sex, and one-night stands. His latest track, Star, is an early-eighties inspired up-tempo pop track with a slight Motown feel that showcases Solo’s wide harmonic range. It echoes the overall sentiment of The Anonymous Icon, his upcoming album that celebrates authenticity at any cost. Follow Raph Solo on Twitter and Facebook: @ RaphSolo How is the digital age for music artists today?

The digital age is great because you can have distribution on a global scale without being signed to a major label. I have my own record label and it is more cost effective and profitable for me to release my music globally through it. The digital age made it possible for indie artists like me to be accessible globally without needing a major record label.

How do you get your music today?

I like iTunes because it’s easy to download on my iPhone. For

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music streaming, I am a fan of Spotify. YouTube is great for videos.

Are compact discs obsolete?

They were great at the time. I used to love reading them and smelling them. They were like gifts. I kind of miss them but they took up a lot of space and I think we have other ways of feeling close to artists now. Like social media, which didn’t exist back then.

What are your thoughts on Kanye West, Beyonce and Rihanna releasing their music exclusively through Tidal?

I understand artists wanting to get a financial reward for their work. Personally I wouldn’t choose to release my music through one outlet exclusively. I want my music to be accessible to all people who would like to hear it. I believe fans appreciate it when they have a choice of what outlet they want to buy their music from.

Is pirating still a big problem?

Pirating will always be a problem.

What have you found to be a great tool to help get your music out to the masses?

Social media has been a tremendous help.

ANDRE XCELLENCE Andre Xcellence is a rapper who artfully blends urban beats and progressive house. He has released hit singles with Manila Luzon, Willam and Courtney Act. His latest track, Werk Out”, is an over-thetop club banger guaranteed to party off the pounds. In addition to his recording work, Andre Xcellence heads the independent music label, American Commission. Follow Andre Xcellence on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook: @ andrexcellence How is the digital age for music artists today?

We’re still trying to figure out how to navigate this new age.

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While it’s not too difficult to get your music out, it’s hard – very hard - to get noticed. Marketing and promo are so important these days because if a tree falls in the woods, does it make noise?

How do you get your music today?

I get it all through iTunes.

Are compact discs obsolete?

I used to make CDs for reviewers but I don’t anymore. No one wants them. They’re too bulky. I did like reading cd jackets back in the day, learning about who wrote and produced the songs, but now I can just do that online.

What are your thoughts on Kanye West, Beyonce and Rihanna releasing their music exclusively through Tidal?

I understand it. They want to break another brand. More options for artists is a great thing. It’s a gamble, of course, forcing people to go someplace new, but these artists are so big, their fans will follow them. At the end of the day, it’s good for the consumer as more competition will help keep prices down.

Is pirating still a big problem?

Absolutely. It’s a big part of why the industry is broken. The only good thing that came out of it is it has forced the quality of music to get better. It’s a singles market now. Every track needs to be a hit.

What have you found to be a great tool to help get your music out to the masses?

Going beyond the music. Artists have to open up their personal lives. It’s not just about music, videos and all that anymore. It’s important to participate in social networking. The new thing is YouTube shows. But it can backfire! Look at Kanye. He’s a genius but some people won’t listen to his records because they don’t like him. Also, Miley Cyrus… people are ignoring her brand because they think she’s off but they should give her a second look. Her album is amazing.

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WORLDWIDE MUSICAL VOYAGE

BY CHRIS ASTRALA

Music. No matter who you are or where you are from, music is part of your life. We decided to take you on a musical journey around the world and visit ten of the most renowned music festivals.

So pack your bags, check that your passport is up to date and lets embark on a fantastic musical voyage.

LEEDS & READING FESTIVALS, UK Britain’s annual mud-baths-cum-music-festivals are as notorious for their riotous performances as they are for their unfortunate abundance of rainfall. The hippie haven of Glastonbury might steal the prize for England’s most popular festival, the crowds will be descending upon the Leeds & Reading Festivals instead.

Held simultaneously at two venues in the North and South of the country over the final bank holiday weekend of the summer with a rotating cast of bands, the two festivals have quickly reached legendary status among world rock fans. The audiences, renowned as one of the craziest festival crowds, make the festival, with the last evening routinely turning into a chaotic display of alcohol-fueled debauchery, as the festival campsites turn into one enormous party with campfires, fireworks and impromptu mud sliding.

LOLLAPALOOZA, CHICAGO Unashamedly meshing the mainstream with the indie, the bill for Chicago’s renowned Lollapalooza Festival reads like the ultimate record collection, with everything from little-known gems to major acts joining the party. Started up back in 1991 and celebrating its

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25th year, Lollapalooza’s sheer popularity with attendees from all over the country; has music fans descending on downtown Chicago to sate their musical appetites.

ROSKILDE, DENMARK Northern Europe’s largest open-air festival, Roskilde in Denmark has been running annually since 1971 and attracts over 90,000 music lovers over its four-day run. A mere 30 km outside of Copenhagen, the festival brings fans from Europe and all over the world to enjoy the mix of rock, pop, hip hop and electronica, mixing local bands with world renowned artists playing over seven stages. The festival has played host to everyone from Bob Marley to Nirvana over its 40-year reign.

SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS, AUSTRALIA It may be winter in Australia, but the sun is bound to be shining for the annual Splendour on the Grass festival, a short trip from hippie haven Byron Bay and one of the world’s largest eco-friendly festivals. The New South Wales concert stretches over three days and draws fans from all over the country for possibly the most chilled out rock concert known to man. It’s not just about the music here, there’s a natural beauty spa onsite, a kids relaxation area and a shopping area nick-named the “very small mall.”

ROCK IN RIO, PORTUGAL Claiming the title of the biggest music and entertainment event of all time, the Rock in Rio festivals have been held alternatively in

Portugal, Brazil and Spain in addition to Las Vegas. It’s one of a growing trend of events using music to inspire change in environmental and social issues around the world. This year’s Rock in Rio takes place in Lisbon, Portugal and is set to draw in crowds of over 300,000.

BENICASSIM FESTIVAL, SPAIN Spain’s East coast became a hub of international music, as the Festival Internacional de Benicassim (FIB) descended on the unassuming coastal region. Attracting a massive 50,000 festivalgoers over its four days, this is one festival that covers all bases when it comes to music genres. Previous years line-up offered up one of the world’s most diverse festival line-ups, with the world’s best in folk (Bob Dylan), pop (Jessie J, Katy B), dance, (David Guetta), hip hop (Tinie Tempah, De La Soul), indie (The Strokes, Noel Gallagher), alternative (At the Drive-in, Arcade Fire) and rock (The Stone Roses, New Order). Need we say more?

BONNAROO FESTIVAL, TENNESSEE The Southern cousin of Lollapalooza and another favorite on the U.S. festival roster, Bonnaroo in Tennessee pits itself as more

than just a music festival, with a vast array of arts and cultural programs. There’s certainly no shortage of entertainment over the festival’s four days, with 150 acts performing, an adjourning film festival, a silent disco, art installations and live comedy capturing the attentions of over 80,000 campers. There are even free yoga classes, a complimentary hair salon and the Broo’ers mini festival celebrating micro-brewed beers from all over the country. This year’s line-up brings a veritable summer soundtrack, dozens of the world’s best loved bands spanning rock, pop, country and even some hip hop and electronica thrown in for good measure.

SUMMER SONIC FESTIVAL, JAPAN Musicians have long pegged Japan as one of their favorite places to perform, due in no small part to the wild enthusiasm of the crowds. Held simultaneously in Osaka and Tokyo, the Summer Sonic Festival is the biggest event on the calendar for Japanese music fanatics. There are no bounds to great music here, with a roster of rock, punk, hip hop and pop keeping the crowd bopping well into early hours. Past line-up looks like its been lifted from the Billboard chart with Rihanna, Nelly Furtado, Adam Lambert and Ke$ha to

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name a few. Also make sure you catch some of Japan’s own rock bands too -- legendary for their craziness.

SZIGET, BUDAPEST, HUNGARY Eastern Europe’s coolest music festival, the Sziget Festival in Hungary has rapidly risen to the ranks of festival stardom, becoming one of the most exciting dates on the European calendar. The mammoth seven-day extravaganza leaves few left standing by its close. Hosted on an island on the River Danube in the center of Budapest, the festival is nothing if not unique -- pitch your tent on the riverbank, and head to one of the infamous Hungarian bathhouses to spruce yourself up in between acts. As for the entertainment, expect to be spoilt with variety -- around 60 stages feature everything from rock to classical and there are film showings, art exhibitions, sports, all-night parties and even a fairground; you can even learn to belly dance or go bungee jumping.

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ROCK WERCHTER, BELGIUM Belgians might be better known for sipping beer and whipping up some of the world’s most delicious chocolates, but these rock fans know how to get down and dirty in the mosh pit come festival season.

Forget the cultural and artistic ethos of modern festivals; the Rock Werchter Festival in Belgium has been all about the music since it started up in the 1970s, so expect some sweaty, beer-fueled crowds connecting over a shared love of all things loud. It’s not all rock ‘n’ roll though -- the festival features everything from indie, pop and rock, to hip hop and dance, so there’s something for everyone.

No music festival list would be complete without mentioning Coachella & Stagecoach, which have grown into 2 of the best. We will be featuring them both in next month’s issue. We know that your favorite might not have been included in this list, so feel free to drop us a line and let us know. Perhaps we can include it in a future issue.

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UP & COMING LGBT MUSICIANS SAM SMITH Academy Award winner Sam Smith, with his voice, equal parts powerhouse belt and heartbreaking falsetto, is now ubiquitous on the radio. His album, In the Lonely Hour, is as relatable as it is critically acclaimed, and it is mostly about the experience of unrequited love. On coming out, Smith stated that he wanted to be clear on what his album was about. “It’s about a guy and that’s what I wanted people to know.”

He is also completely aware of how important his success is to the public narrative, saying, “My aim is to tell people how good it’s been for me so that, hopefully, gay men or parents with gay children can look at my story and think, Wow, that’s how it should be. That’s what we can work towards. That’s been my whole motive — to not make it a talking point. My music should be a talking point.”

LE1F Le1f got his start as a 17-yearold student at Wesleyan University, producing tracks for comedy hip-hop group Das Racist. In 2012, he successfully transitioned to a solo career with his huge hit “Wut.” The rapper is multitalented — his undergraduate degree in dance only helps make his shows vibrant, communal and fun as hell.

“I want people to dance at my shows ... I want the music at first to be really, really exciting.” Initially, Le1f was cautious about speaking out too loudly about his identity in the largely queerphobic hip-hop community, but he’s embraced it fully in 2014. “Ask a gay question, here’s a black answer,” he raps on his 2014 EP Hey. He skillfully uses braggadocio, often an overtly masculine component of hip-hop, and subverts it: “New world order, LGBT cuties all over the world are diamonds and pearls.” Arty, provocative, and politically aware.

THOMAS NEUWIRTH AKA CONCHITA WURST Thomas Neuwirth, better known by her drag persona Conchita Wurst, had an amazing year. After appearances on assorted

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Austrian TV programs, Wurst was selected as the nation’s representative to the 2014 Eurovision Song Contest, despite significant backlash against her gender nonconformity both within the country and throughout Europe.

But Conchita’s rendition of “Rise Like a Phoenix” was so undeniably exceptional that she was crowned the winner. The song reached the top three iTunes downloads in 14 countries, including those that had most vehemently protested her participation. She exemplified how to use the celebrity platform for positive change by inviting fans to wear knitted beards in solidarity.

She has since blown up as a European queer icon, headlining at least half a dozen pride events, and performing at the European Parliament as well as the United Nations Office in Vienna, where Secretary General Ban Ki-moon commended her. She has since become involved with the It Gets Better Project, an organization designed to use media figures like Wurst to let LGBT teens know they aren’t alone.

SIA While “Chandelier” marks Australian artist Sia’s largest solo success to date, if you’ve been listening to the radio at all in the past few years, then you’re already familiar with her work. Sia has collaborated with dozens of the most popular artists, writing, among many other things, “Diamonds” by Rihanna and “Pretty Hurts” by Beyoncé. Sia is incredibly open about her fluid sexuality too, something refreshing for mainstream music. “Before I was actually successful I’d always said I’ve always dated boys and girls and anything in between. I don’t care what gender you are, it’s about people. I didn’t just recently open up, I just recently got famous!

I’ve always been … well, flexible is the word I would use.”

BILLY GILMAN In 2014 country star Ty Herndon came out. Billy Gilman, in an act of solidarity, came out a day later. “It’s difficult for me to

make this video, not because I’m ashamed of being a gay male artist, or a gay artist or a gay person, but it’s pretty silly to know that I’m ashamed of doing this knowing that I’m in a genre and an industry that’s ashamed of me for being me,” Gilman said. Gilman was a country star at just 11 years old, with “One Voice,” a top 20 hit on the country Billboard charts.

Gilman released the romantic and celebratory “Say You Will” and hosted the American Music Guild’s Heritage Awards, where he won for Mainstream Artist of the Year. That kind of exposure and acceptance is a huge step for LGBT country music fans.

and club music. He became famous for “Blind,” a song performed with musician and friend Antony Hegarty, which won Pitchfork’s Best Song of 2008. “Blind” was about growing up a gay kid, my immediate family and social group rejecting me, and asking why I was born into this situation. But knowing that as soon as I could escape, I would, and that I would find freedom and solace.

As an adult, however, I found a life full of excess and other wounded people and confusion. Thus, I felt blind,” he told the New York Times.

BIG DIPPER Big Dipper is thick, hairy, and completely unashamed of his body. And why shouldn’t he be?

With underground rap songs about the joys of sexual promiscuity, Big Dipper is the poster child for Baltimore Bear culture. Veering towards the silly instead of the expressive, Dipper’s ass-shaking production has made him a contemporary club kid icon.

TEESATISFACTION Need more funky R&B/hip-hop in your life? You can thank this Seattle duo later. Stasia “Stas” Irons and singer Catherine “Cat” Harris-White met in college; it only took a few years for the pair to be signed by Sub Pop Records.

The duo bring together their own unique flavors to create one irresistible sound. “We definitely bring different genres and sounds,” Stas said in a 2012 interview. “I like a lot of gangsta rap from the 90s and that’s something that Cat didn’t really know about before we met. And then Cat brought in a lot of jazz – things like Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald – and I wasn’t familiar with that, so we combined those two and that’s what our music sounds like!”

ANDY BUTLER THE RIFF RAFF In 2008, Andy Butler created Hercules and Love Affair, a dance music project with a rotating cast of musicians. Butler, who grew up in an abusive household, found solace in Greek mythology

If Johnny Cash and Amy Winehouse somehow made a baby, Bronx-born Puerto Rican front-woman Alynda Lee Segarra would

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FEATURE be the result. The Riff Raff is a folk band that, as a whole, identifies as queer. Segarra constantly strives to change the way women are portrayed in traditional folk music. “Any way I can spread love amongst women, whether romantic or not, is important to me,” the singer-songwriter told BuzzFeed. “Pronouns are very fun to play with as a songwriter — there is a lot of weight in them. When I first started writing songs, I wanted to sing my love songs to women, whether they be my best friends or a character I created. I thought it was powerful for a woman to sing love to other women, and that isn’t about sex to me; it’s about respect and complications, about seeing these women as full human beings who are stunning in all of their ways and also painfully mysterious,” she said. The rest of the Riff Raff includes trans fiddler Yosi Perlstein, bassist Callie Millington, and drummer David Jamison, who collectively released the album Small Town Heroes at the beginning of this year.

is brazenly open in her work.

“I never hide that I’m writing about women in my songs and it feels good to be as honest as possible,” the singer told BuzzFeed. “I feel lucky I don’t feel the need to censor my song ideas through editing or omitting gendered pronouns.”

The completely self-taught musician finds songwriting “vulnerable but really rewarding” work. “You know, I used to think I could only write when I was in a sad or dark place but it’s been interesting to work towards sharing new and even joyful parts of myself.”

JULIA WELDON Julia Weldon identifies as queer and “definitely not a lesbian folk singer.” All jokes aside, the New York-based singer-songwriter

Special thanks to BuzzFeed & Huffington Post Gay Voices for their contribution to this article.

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MUSIC REVIEW FORMER GLEE STAR ALEX NEWELL RELEASES REMIX EP

BY MARTHA TANG Big Beat recording artist Alex Newell releases a new remix package for his single “This Ain’t Over.” The five–track EP features official remixes by Odd Mob, TKDJS, Autolaser, Kid and PVC. Best known for his co-starring role on Fox’s hit series, Glee, Newell will support “POWER” with an eagerly awaited US concert tour. The multi-talented performer will accompany Adam Lambert as special guest beginning February 23rd at The Paramount in Huntington, NY and then continuing through an April 2nd finale at Los Angeles’ Orpheum Theatre.

“POWER” is marked by Newell’s playful yet potent approach to disco-injected dance-pop. Throughout the process of making the EP, the gifted 23-year old entertainer was able to collaborate with some of pop’s most honored artists, including Nile Rodgers (Chic, David Bowie), GRAMMY® Award-winning songwriter Diane Warren (Whitney Houston, Aerosmith), MNEK (Beyoncé and Zara Lawson), and superstar DJ Cassidy.

Alex Newell quickly went from Massachusetts high school student to a beloved star on one of television’s most popular and influential series. His 2011 self-taped audition earned him over one million

MySpace views as well as a spot on the first season of Oxygen’s The Glee Project. Initially cast on Glee for just a two-episode arc, Newell proved an immediate fan favorite with his dynamic performance as Wade “Unique” Adams and was soon elevated to the main cast. The groundbreaking role highlights Newell’s remarkably diverse talent, allowing him to shine as both the shy, outcast Wade and his bold, brave alter ego, Unique. With his powerhouse vocalizing, versatile acting, and undeniable magnetism, Newell has earned widespread critical acclaim, a loyal fan following.

Having conquered television, Newell’s focus returned to his first love: music. 2014 saw the release of his debut single, a magnetic cover of Sigma’s “Nobody to Love,” which topped the Spotify Viral Chart in December 2015.

Newell also partnered with Moscow-based DJ/producer Matvey Emerson for a scintillating cover of Robin S.’s house classic, “Show Me Love,” earning ecstatic acclaim from MTV.com: “Alex’s talent hearken back to the masters of the genre — Robin S., CeCe Peniston, Martha Wash — in a way I haven’t quite heard in this wave of house revival. It takes a certain kind of vocal excellence to produce ballad-level vocals over a frenetic dance beat, and Newell has totally got it.”

The remix EP is available now for digital download and streaming via digital subscription services.

For more, please visit: www.thealexnewell.com

RAPHAEL BRINGS TROUBLE TO THE DANCE FLOOR

BY JEFF DORTA

The soulful electro-pop singer Raphael releases “Boys Are Trouble”, a dark, seductive track. Written by Raphael, the song - with its moody piano, beautifully sad strings, and raw vocals that exude vulnerability - is being compared to ballads by Lana Del Rey and The Weekend. “Boys Are Trouble is a song about addiction, whether it is love, sex, or the human body,” explains the artist. “I often find that just when I think I’m in control of my emotions, a sexy guy comes

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along, carnality takes over and I fall to pieces.” “Boys Are Trouble” is the second single from Raphael’s upcoming album, The Dark of My Mind. The single is now available on iTunes and Spotify, along with its brand new club remix by superstar DJ Joe Gauthreaux. The “Boys Are Trouble” music video is available on YouTube.

“I tend to fall for guys who are aloof and ridiculously overconfident.

I become so consumed in vying for their attention that I completely

lose myself,” explains Raphael from Downtown Music Studios in Manhattan. He is there mixing his album with multi-Grammy award winning mixer Tony Maserati (Beyonce - “Crazy In Love”). “It would be easy to blame it on the guys, but what I’ve learned from my experience is that I am the one who brings the trouble upon myself. I want who I want at that moment, and I don’t really care what happens as long as I get the guy.”

The music video for “Boys Are Trouble” takes place in a seedy fight club. We see Raphael, trying to escape his loveless and abusive relationship with Cash, the rich and violent fight club organizer. He finds solace in a boxer named Max, a loser with a winning heart.

“Being in an abusive relationship in the past, I felt it was important to show how domestic violence also exists in LGBT relationships, which is something that is rarely discussed.”

Raphael chose to cast male models for the music video as a nod

to Friday Night Throw Down, New York City’s true life amateur boxing matches that pit male models against local boxing talent. He picked Taylor Harris, who plays Cash, for his irresistibly dangerous looks and William McLarnon, who plays Max, for his boy-next-door qualities.

“I’m fortunate to always find the right guys for my videos. It’s finding the right ones off-camera that gets tricky,” he laughs.

In his music, Raphael aims to bring back the love. According to the young singer, most songs today emphasize independence and an “I’m too cool” attitude towards romance. He misses the desperation and vulnerability in songs from the past where vocalists unapologetically gushed over someone.

He calls his upcoming album, “The Dark of My Mind”, his journey through modern love set to sexy, moody trip-hop and electro-pop sounds that are at times ethereal and dreamy and at other times flow over the listener with a wave of sexual urgency and romantic longing. “It’s about those things that you tuck in the back of your head and you don’t necessarily want to talk about or want people to know,“ explains Raphael.

“Boys Are Trouble” is streaming now on Spotify and is available for purchase on iTunes. Raphael’s debut album, “The Dark of My Mind,” releases soon. For more information visit www.officialraphael.com.

MARCH 2016 21

BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED…

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

Vinyl is making a comeback.

Those are five words that put a smile on a music aficionado’s face. A CD isn’t the same, they say. An MP3 is nowhere near as good. You don’t get the right sound unless you’re spinning a record, so vinyl is coming back – but, for people like Rashod Ollison in “Soul Serenade,” it never really left.

There was once a time when “Dusty” Ollison’s parents were happy.

He knows it’s true; he has evidence of it, in the form of a picture taken at the beginning of their marriage, which lasted thirteen years.

When they split, he was old enough to witness but too young to understand, having become inured to the fights, the cheating, and the drinking at his home near Hot Springs, Arkansas.

After Ollison’s father fled his family – leaving Ollison’s mother with a ‘tween and two small children – he rarely returned. But he left a gift behind: stacks of vinyl.

Ollison says he remembers poking around music stores with his father, ogling covers, eager for approval of his taste in performers.

Chaka Khan, Bobby Womack, Stevie Wonder, Ollison recalls fascination with their record labels spinning on the turntable. Michael Jackson gave him comfort, Aretha was a mood barometer, and they all taught him about grown-up love through lyrics. With his mother working two full-time jobs to keep food on the table, Ollison counted on music to anchor him. It was his means of escape as his oldest sister took her rage out on him, as his family moved repeatedly, as he was bullied in school for “actin’ like a woman.”

He denied feminine gestures and a tender heart, but by age thirteen, he could no longer ignore that he was gay.

School, by then, had joined music as a thing of refuge; Ollison excelled at his lessons, achieved good grades, made friends, and expanded his playlist. As he grew, he also wondered about his father sometimes but was largely indifferent, even as the man lay dying.

And then an aunt told Ollison something that made him change his tune.

“Soul Serenade” starts where many good memoirs do: with a faded picture of a time that barely seems possible. From there, we’re surprised by a death that promises to taint much of what’s to come, all wrapped in family lore.

But don’t get complacent. Author Rashod Ollison doesn’t allow any lingering. Soon enough, his story becomes angry yelling, a smack upside the head, profanity, TV-as-babysitter, fists and sore

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feet. We’re taken from neighborhood to neighborhood as the lights are shut off, the rent isn’t paid, and he’s taunted with words that his sister has to explain. It’s chaos – but it’s also a darn good tale that it doesn’t dissolve into whining or poor-me-ing, testament to Ollison’s storytelling skills.

“Soul Serenade” is one of those books that sticks in your brain – not only for the suggested music, but because the memoir itself leaves its mark. And if that sounds like solid gold to you, then give this book a spin.

Soul Serenade” by Rashod Ollison c.2016, Beacon Press $25.95 / $30.00 Canada 230 pages

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.

• 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.

MARCH 2016 23

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LIFE IS A DRAG

LIFE AS A DRAG HUSBAND

BY PINKIE MERINGUE SHIMMER

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: KEN & BELLA DA BALL, WARREN & SASSY ROSS AND KEVIN & PINKIE

Hello all of you FABULOUS, wonderful people out there. I hope you are having an absolutely wonderful day today!

Well even with how fabulous and over the top we drag queens can be; none of us can do it alone. We have drag husbands that support us, assist us and are always our biggest cheerleaders. I know for me that there is no way that I could be Pinkie without the support of my husband. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes in order for you to see that fabulous creature on stage.

So I’m going to introduce you to some of the men behind some iconic drag personalities and get the view from their vantage point.

First, lets hear from Ken, husband to Palm Springs Icon, Bella da Ball: “Drag has added another person to our relationship and as a result life with Brian/Bella can be very hectic. Bella, like Brian is another busy person who is always looking for the next event to get involved in or charity to support. Slowly any extra space in our home has been filled with shoes, clothing, jewelry and wigs. What was once a guest bedroom is now a walk-in closet, which happens to be the envy of any woman granted the privilege to peek inside.

Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Whenever I need a sparkly accessory to complete an outfit or a costume for a

theme party I only have to go as far as the closet. In a small city like Palm Springs being an entertainer brings with it a level of notoriety. It is a rare event when we go out and Brian/Bella isn’t recognized. From the hundreds of people he has worked with to adoring fans that frequent his shows we are frequently stopped for greetings and photos.

The only problem with Bella is that she sheds glitter and sequins.

The stuff is all over the house. I keep waiting for Swiffer to deliver a box outside our front door. We could do a commercial!”

Meet Warren, husband to the one and only Sassy Ross.

“I’m Warren and I’m married to Sassy Ross AKA Ross. Ross performs as Tina Turner and a variety of other pop artists. I used to wonder when all of this was going to end.

The experience has been incredible. Ross contributes to fund raisers by performing, volunteering, and my favorite thing is performing in regular scheduled shows and private parties, mostly here in Palm Springs. I feel he contributes something special to society.

The energy he gives off while he is performing is entertaining, settling, tranquil, peaceful and fun too. Of course, I’m always included. He needs his engineer and assistant, me. He is not an androgynous person but is a very special person as a performer and artist and a self-taught impersonator and make up artist. He amazes

MARCH 2016 25

LIFE IS A DRAG me by constantly creating outfits and impersonating artists. What started as a hobby has now become a strange rewarding pleasure.

If there were a degree for this, I would classify Sassy as a master.

Sassy is just a regular guy: Ross. I have to take some credit too.

I always tell him to do well and have fun. That’s the most important thing. Almost never do we go out, that someone doesn’t recognize us.

Because of my hubby Ross being a performer we have a wonderful byproduct and have made some wonderful friends. Being married to a performer, has exceeded my wildest expectations. We are totally satisfied with our lives and our experience.”

And last but not least, lets hear from my wonderful husband, Kevin, my biggest fan and friend: What? “You want to dress up and impersonate a female AND you want to perform in a lip synch show?” My shy little husband said to me over the phone while I was working in Nashville, TN. Imagine my surprise.

And how surprised of how much FUN we are having. It’s all about having fun. It was great to see that a new family had been created.

Another fantastic perk was meeting other entertainers and becoming

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friends. I was surprised how this little group can get along and to encourage each other and support each other. You will always have the exceptions but life is too short to dwell on the negative. Again ‘FUN’ is what it’s all about. The one thing that surprised me most was how it brought my creativity back. By designing, creating and making headdress’s for my girl, Pinkie, and how it has enhanced our relationship. We make a great team. I make the headdresses and Pinkie gets to wear and perform in them.

What I am not surprised about is that there are so many fans that truly appreciate the work, the time and the energy that these performers give to our community. Not just for their entertainment skills but for the countless fundraisers and charity work. From Safe Schools to HIV/AIDS Assistance, to Animal Welfare. I for one, have a great admiration and it’s nothing less than honorable for these fine men….. oops, I mean ladies, in doing what they do. See you at the next show!

LOVE AND LIGHT Pinkie pinkiemeringue@yahoo.com

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.

call 760.323.2118

desertAIDSproject.org

MARCH 2016 27

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PSP FOCUS

THE DINAH: CELEBRATING CLUB SKIRTS WOMEN’S WEEKEND Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend rallies some 15,000-plus attendees not to mention major corporate sponsors, and has cemented its status as the undisputed biggest lesbian event of its kind in the world.

A cultural phenomenon that has not only reached epic proportions but has as well continuously been transforming lives and making a difference in and for the LGBT community. The Dinah offers an unparalleled one-of-a-kind experience for myriads of women who come every year from all over the world to enjoy the freedom to be who they truly are, and gain, as well, a tremendous amount of self worth. There will be many events during the extended weekend with something for everyone.

Club Skirts, in association with SHOWTIME, is thrilled to present “Hot as L”, one of the Dinah Shore Weekend’s signature events.

Bringing back the magic of Showtime’s hugely popular lesbian drama series and reality TV show, The L Word & The Real L Word, “Hot as L” will feature some of our community’s most beloved and popular stars including Elizabeth Keener, Clementine Ford and Tracy Reyerson.

Since the iconic lesbian-themed shows ended, they have all been keeping busy entertainment careers staying in the spotlight. Tracy Ryerson starred in both seasons of the hugely popular web series “Kiss Me I’m Famous” directed by award-winning filmmaker Rolla Selbak for tellofims.com. Elizabeth Keener and Clementine Ford are now reuniting on the screen with starring roles in the upcoming tellofilms. com project entitled “Skirtchasers”. Both will be onsite throughout the entire weekend to promote their latest project as part of the Dinah Film Fest sponsored by tellofilms, which will showcase the finest in lesbian shorts, films, documentaries and web series.

The exclusive event will also mark the farewell show of the allfemale power pop/punk band and Season 3 cast members, Hunter Valentine. Founding members Kiyomi McCloskey and Laura Petracca, as well as touring members Leanne Bowes and Lisa Bianco will take the Dinah stage for a special performance - their scheduled last stop – to thank the fans for one hell of an amazing ride.

Hunter Valentine has captivated audiences with four successful releases, unparalleled energetic live performances across the world, and their unforgettable personalities on VH1’s Make Or Break: The Linda Perry Project and Showtime Network’s The Real L Word reality shows. Having announced their indefinite hiatus., the band is set to launch their EP, The Pledge, and embarking on the So Long For Now Tour for a last hoorah with their unwavering supporters.

SHOWTIME has been a long-time supporter of the LGBT

community with programs like The L Word and The Real L Word®, and has developed over the years a close relationship with Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend. The Dinah served as the focal location for both series.

We all remember Shane, Alice, Jenny, and Dana eventful road trip to The Dinah, the biggest lesbian event in the world, in Season One. Likewise, The Real L Word shot episodes of Season One and Two at Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend and notably dedicated two back-to-back full episodes to the event in its third season.

“Showtime has been a great friend to the lesbian community and to The Dinah. We celebrate Showtime’s legacy of promoting LGBT visibility and proudly welcome them once again as a premiere sponsor of The Dinah. The actresses attending are some of the shows’ favorites and will be on hand throughout the weekend to join in The Dinah festivities,” says Mariah Hanson, founder & producer of The Dinah.

The epic five-day world-renown weekend is already making a lot of noise and is well on its way to be the most epic Dinah EVER. The Dinah has evolved into one of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley’s largest tourism boosters.

For a complete schedule of events & tickets visit www.thedinah.com

MARCH 2016 29

PSP FOCUS

NCLR GARDEN PARTY You don’t want to miss the National Center for Lesbian Rights’ annual Palm Springs Garden Party on April 2nd during Dinah weekend. It’s been an incredible year in the movement for LGBT equality, and NCLR Executive Director Kate Kendell and Legislative Policy Director Geoff Kors will share what’s in store for the road ahead locally and nationwide.

This year, we are excited to announce two exceptional honorees: California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom, who made history as San Francisco’s mayor in 2004 by issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, and Salt Lake City’s first openly LGBT Mayor Jackie Biskupski!

NCLR has been at the forefront of the movement for LGBT equality and liberation since its start in 1977. It was the first organization to launch projects advancing parent, youth, immigrant, and transgender rights, and many others.

NCLR helped bring marriage equality to California in 2008 and made history again last year when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality nationwide after hearing its Tennessee marriage case and cases from three other states. It continues to shape the legal landscape for all LGBT people and families across the country through its precedent-setting litigation, legislation, policy, and public education. Its #BornPerfect campaign to end conversion nationwide by 2019 is another of its groundbreaking projects, resulting in laws protecting LGBT minors from the dangerous practice so far in California, New Jersey, Oregon, Illinois, and Washington D.C.

At the event you will hear from our honorees and about our incredible work to advance full equality for the entire LGBT community.

The Garden Party will be held on April 2, with a VIP champagne reception beginning at 5 p.m. and the party starting at 5:30 p.m.

Individual tickets are $75 and sponsorship packages start at $250. Learn more at www.NCLRighs.org/GardenParty.

RED DRESS/DRESS RED PARTY Tickets are now on sale for the 5th Annual Red Dress/Dress Red Party, the hottest dance party of the season, to benefit The LGBT Community Center of the Desert. Continuing the tradition of having a fashion-busting good time at a fabulous location, this year’s event will be held on Saturday, March 12th, from 8 to 11 p.m. at the coolest place in Palm Springs, SnapShot Palm Springs, 4575 E. Camino Parocela, Palm Springs.

“Who doesn’t love a sassy red dress or a snappy red pant suit?

Whichever suits you, plan on getting all dolled up for the most fun dance party of the season, and have a great time while supporting a good cause.” said Mike Thompson, Executive Director of The Center.

“Funds raised will be used to support direct services to the community,

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PSP FOCUS including low-cost counseling, a weekly food bank, and over 40 educational and enrichment programs.”

Tickets are $75 each and include complimentary valet parking, hosted bar and tasty bites from area restaurants. Dancing will be to the hot tunes of Palm Springs Premier DJ Bob Scatch, along with a Red Dress and Dress Red costume contest, and fun giveaways. Presenting sponsor for the event is the Western Wind Foundation. Other sponsors include David Hood & George Sellers, Brian Rix, Grace Helen Spearman Charitable Foundation, Streetbar, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Charles Robbins & Damon Romine, Chill Bar

Palm Springs, Randy Lowe, Rick Hutcheson & Rob Kincaid, Mary Sue & Shelby Allen, and Will Cook & Rob Morrison. Media Partners include Coachella Valley Independent, Desert Daily Guide, Desert Outlook, Frontiers Magazine, Gay Desert Guide, Gay Entertainment Directory, LIVE Magazine, NicholasSnow.com, The Standard Magazine and Trick Dog Films. Last year’s event was a sell-out and this year promises to be just as sought after. Dress for the evening is “Red Dress / Dress Red.” To purchase tickets call 760-416-7790 or go to www.thecenterps.org/events/red-dress-dress-red

PURPLE ROOM PRESENTS TROY SKINNER Troy Skinner Debuts “What The World Needs Now- the music of Burt Bacharach” at The Purple Room in Palm Springs Friday April 1, 2016 and Saturday April 2, 2016 at 7:00PM. He will be joined by award winning musical director Christopher Marlowe. Scott Barnes directs the show.

“What the World Needs Now” is a new cabaret show featuring the music of legendary composer Burt Bacharach. Songs to include, “Alfie”, “Anyone Who Had a Heart”, “A House is Not a Home”, “This

Guy’s in Love”, “Close to You” and many more.

Troy Skinner has lived in Palm Springs for 17 years. Many Palm Springs residents know Skinner as a former weather person for KMIRTV 6 in Palm Springs. He appeared on many local stages and cabaret rooms in Palm Springs and Los Angeles.

For tickets call 760.322.4422 or visit www.purpleroompalmsprings.com

MARCH 2016 31

LEGALLY SPEAKING

PARTNERS, PRE-NUPS AND PUPPY DOGS - IN A NUTSHELL

BY CHRISTOPHER HERITAGE

Members of the LGBT community often come to me for advice on these three issues, and I’d like to pass along a few facts about each one that may answer some of your own questions.

We usually use the term life-partners for a couple that have a committed relationship but have not legalized it by marrying or registering with the state as domestic partners. There is no government recognition or definition of the relationship and therefore, it can mean a wide range of things to people. Financial issues can crop up, because there are no laws offering protection to the life-partners.

If the couple splits up, one person could be left without a home or financial support, because the other owns all the assets.

You have heard the word “palimony”. Actually, there is no such thing as palimony law in the California Code. The statutes do permit civil lawsuits to determine if a written or verbal contract or other legal condition exists that would require one person to share assets with another. Palimony suits are very expensive, and very difficult to win.

Most people who ask me about filing a suit simply don’t have a credible case or can’t finance the costs.

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Instead of relying on the possibility of a palimony action if a couple splits up, I recommend creating a cohabitation agreement early in the relationship. The life- partners discuss their personal property and financial assets, and decide how they will manage these during the relationship, and what will happen to them if the relationship ends.

This allows the couple to relax and be secure over time, knowing that if something goes wrong, each person understands exactly how they will move on in the future. There will be no need for a lawsuit.

Pre-nuptial or pre-marital agreements are a little like cohabitation agreements, but much more comprehensive and complex. That is because California is a community property state, and the Family Law Code regulates a wide range of personal and financial issues in marriage. When marrying (or registering as domestic partners), a couple has many decisions to make about handling their finances and assets. The law states that most assets (and debts, too) acquired after marriage are community property, owned equally by the spouses. But a couple may choose to restrict such property to only some assets or no assets at all. Usually, each

person brought some of his or her own property into the marriage, and that can be retained as separate property, or put into the pot of community property.

A pre-marital agreement can also spell out what will happen in case the marriage fails. It states how community property will be split up if there is a dissolution of the marriage.

It can provide very detailed instructions for what will happen to the family home, automobiles, retirement benefits, or other property. With more than 50% of marriages ending in divorce in the U.S., the value of a pre-nup is enormous. If the marriage breaks up, there is no need for the spouses to worry or fight about how to divide up their assets; and no need for a lengthy, frustrating and very expensive divorce court hearing and/or mediation process.

Because of the many legal details that must be included in a valid pre-nup, it is necessary to have an attorney draw it up and review it. Sometimes each person has legal representation from the start. Or, an attorney will prepare the document for one member of the couple, and the other member will take it to a different attorney for independent review. A single attorney should not represent both members, which could be viewed as a conflict of interest. Once both attorneys have reviewed and discussed the agreement with their clients, it can be signed. A pre-nup must be signed at least 7 days before the date of marriage, so it can’t be a quick, last minute decision.

Puppy dogs, cats, birds, pretty fish in the Koi pond, and all the other furry, feathery or scaly creatures we call pets, are extremely important in our lives. We often consider them family members, and they get their fair share of our attention and financial support. Unfortunately, in the eyes of the law, pets are simply the personal property of a human owner, and have no status of their own. There are hundreds of city, county and state laws governing abuse of pets and who is responsible if a pet causes injury to someone - but no statutes that provide for the continued care of pets if something happens to the owner. Our overfilled animal shelters make it clear that we haven’t planned for the failure, incapacity or death of owners, and rely on just a hope and a wish that someone out there will take the abandoned pet home.

You already know that I strongly recommend creating a Will and Power of Attorney, or a Trust to provide for managing your finances and property, and passing on assets if something happens to you. Your pets are your property, just as much as your car, your bank account or your expensive gold ring. You will state in your Will who inherits these items, including who will become responsible for your pets after you die. A Power of Attorney should give your agent authority and instructions for taking care of the pets if you are incapacitated.

The best way to insure a future for your pets is to create a Pet Trust as part of your own Trust. This will provide a plan for the care and financial support of the pets if you become incapacitated or pass away. You can name the caretaker(s) and provide the funds to pay for the living and health care expenses of your pets until they, too, pass on.

The provisions of a Pet Trust are legally enforceable in California, and this is a good way to be certain that your pets will not end up, all alone, in a shelter.

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

MARCH 2016 33

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FITNESS

TRAIN WITH YOUR BRAIN

BY DENNIS MASON, BFA, C.P.T.

“Anything worth having never comes easy.” “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well.” “You don’t get something for nothing.” These three phrases have been around for years. They apply to many facets of our lives, but none more pronounced than working on your own personal health and fitness. Oh, how true; especially so, when working on your physique. Perhaps that’s one of the reasons why many people don’t have the body of their desires…not even close.

It takes hard work. And, hard work is something a lot people don’t want to put out. Yet, you will always see hard work at the foundation of anything of value in our human endeavors.

Of course, there are many variables that need to be taken into account in order to create a successful change in your physical appearance. Over the past four decades of my career, I have literally seen thousands of people try very hard to make solid progress with their body. Some succeed; some don’t. Too often today I hear someone say “Oh, I would really like to get my body into better shape but, I just don’t have the genetics to do that.” That might be true in a few isolated cases, but most of the time it’s just a “cop out” to doing some hard work. There is no substitute for good old-fashioned hard work. So, here’s what you have to do if you want to succeed with your fitness program.

First off, set a few goals. Create an image in your mind of what you want to accomplish and how you want to look. This is called visualization and is the most important factor. However, you must also keep in mind the parameters of your physical body. Some of the factors to take into account of course include your genetic make-up, but also include your previous fitness experience, your age, previous injuries or surgeries and of course your available time.

Being realistic is important when outlining your goals. But, being realistic in the amount of time it will take is of equal importance.

Here’s a good example of that thought. Attempting to gain 10 pounds of muscle or lose 10 pounds of body fat are realistic goals; attempting to do that in just 30 days is not.

Next, challenge your muscles. No matter what form of exercise you choose (weight lifting, swimming, cycling, cross training, etc.), practice performing the movements involved with the highest degree of intensity that you can safely manage. Don’t just “go through the motions” of an exercise movement…make it challenging! Only then, will you develop the muscle to its optimum potential.

Use only good form when performing a movement. The general

rule of thumb I use with my clients is, once the proper form is broken, the set is over. It’s as simple as that. Next to safety, form is the most important part of any exercise movement. Poor form does nothing for the muscle except lead to wasted movements and possible injury. If you belong to a gym or health club I’m sure you have seen more than a few people using momentum to move a weight stack, barbell or dumbbell instead of the appropriate muscles. A good example can be seen on the lat pull down machine. Many people use their body weight and momentum to pull the bar down. You’ll generally see them leaning way backwards instead of sitting up straight and pulling the bar down by using the upper muscles of the back. A similar situation can be seen when someone is performing standing barbell curls. The body arches backwards and performs what I call the old “heave ho” movement to bring the barbell upward. Subsequent movements bounce the bar off the thighs and use the anterior (front) deltoids to lift the bar rather than just the biceps…as the movement is meant to be.

When you make your movements in strict form, you are better able to mentally focus on the muscle(s) you are attempting to work out. Remember to practice the “mind-muscle connection” for best results. If you have any questions concerning proper form of movements in the gym or outdoors, email or call me.

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 dennis@dennismasonfitness.com 760-219-5877 Home Base: WORLD GYM PALM SPRINGS Please join Dennis on his internet radio program, FITNESS & MORE, on demand at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/ FitnessAndMore Also on Facebook and Twitter as fitnessradio.

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WELLNESS

5 REASONS YOU’RE NOT SLEEPING Tossing, turning and constantly waking - it can be maddening when you don’t get the sleep your mind and body so desperately needs. If you constantly struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep, you’re in good (albeit tired) company.

Millions of people are chronically sleep deprived. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that insufficient sleep is a serious and growing public health concern. What most people don’t realize is their lack of quality rest is often connected to bad sleep habits.

Are you guilty of any of these top five mistakes that reduce your body’s ability to sleep all night? Learn what they are and how to make simple corrections for a more rejuvenating rest.

MISTAKE 1: SLEEPING ON AN OLD MATTRESS An old, unsupportive mattress inhibits quality sleep, yet the cost and time it takes to purchase a new mattress deters people from upgrading. Fortunately, the mattress industry is evolving so it’s easier than ever to get a new mattress. For example, Posturepedic, Sleep Number, Ghostbed are all great options.

MISTAKE 2: USING ELECTRONICS AT BEDTIME Tablets, cell phones, smartphones - digital devices make it easy to stay connected, but they mess with the brain’s ability to fall asleep.

Light omitting devices disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythms.

That means when you’re checking your phone right before bed, you’re causing your brain to think it’s time to wake. The best solution is to avoid digital devices for at least an hour before bed. Instead of TV or tech, take a bath, read or do some gentle yoga to get your body into sleep mode.

MISTAKE 3: IGNORING PHANTOM NOISE POLLUTION Ticking clocks, beeping phones and buzzing electronics may not seem loud, but this phantom noise pollution is secretly robbing you of a good night’s rest. To encourage your body to get into REM sleep, try to eliminate as much noise as possible from the bedroom. If you’re left with other disruptive noises, such as a snoring partner or outside traffic, invest in a white noise machine or earplugs to block it out.

MISTAKE 4: KEEPING THE BEDROOM TOO WARM If you crank up the heat and grab an extra blanket at bedtime, you might be disrupting your sleep patterns. The National Sleep Foundation identifies temperature as a key factor to sleep, recommending a cooler sleeping environment. So turn down the thermostat, reduce blankets and rethink your mattress.

MISTAKE 5: ALLOWING INCONSPICUOUS LIGHT You flip off the light switch when it’s time for shuteye, but your room is probably not completely dark. Even subtle glow from a nightlight, phone or muted TV disrupts those crucial circadian rhythms, causing your body to think dawn is near, which in return triggers you to get up. Try to remove or block all light in your room, and if there’s some you just can’t eliminate, an eye mask is a helpful alternative.

Disclaimer: Last month the wrong byline was placed in the Wellness article. It should have been credited to Brandpoint. Sorry for the oversight.

MARCH 2016 37

THE AMAZON TRAIL

AIRING THE LESBIAN LAUNDRY

BY LEE LYNCH

My sweetheart and I don’t pay much attention to roles in our marriage. For one thing, she’s the more able-bodied spouse and taller. It’s not likely to be me at the top of our six-foot ladder, heaving storage boxes onto the garage rafters. And when U.P.S. brings the “some assembly required” contraptions to our door? I usually hand my sweetheart the box cutter and the screwdriver and, when she finishes, the oohs and ahs.

Laundry is a whole other matter. She says it’s always been her thing. The only comment she ever made about my laundry skills was a question, “Why don’t you buy some new underwear/towels/socks?

We’ll toss these.” I was horrified. Early on, she announced that she would be doing the laundry in the future.

Hey, I wasn’t about to argue. I made myself useful in other ways and listened carefully during training sessions. I hadn’t even known

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that, with the right care, white didn’t fade to gray. I thought two weeks was a perfectly respectable length of time to wear one pair of jeans. Why waste water? Think of the environment!

We have three upright laundry baskets. At first, darks were on the left. On the right were whites and the middle basket was unsorted until otherwise determined by no one other than my Sweetheart. After several years, the determination was that I still couldn’t determine what went where.

We now have a hers basket each and a whites basket, but by careful observation, I have noticed some items that are not all white go in with the whites anyway. I occasionally, boldly, test this theory by hanging a wet whitish thing on the side of the whites basket. My sweetheart is saintly about not criticizing me. Or maybe I should be grateful for all that management training she’s undergone.

In the name of progress, and possibly to reward my sincere

attempts to understand this laundry thing, I gradually began taking on folding duties. I am also allowed to place the wet clothes in the dryer and even turn the dryer on when and if instructed to do so.

However, I am never, never allowed to fire up the dryer unless my sweetheart is here so that she can immediately fold. She folds the shirts, jeans—all the important stuff. When I said I was promoted to folding, I meant folding underwear, washcloths, socks—the less pressing articles, so to speak.

We both clean out the dryer filter, she, before she turns on the dryer, me, after the clothes are dry. Laundry methodology; it really works out the same in the end.

Prior to becoming a couple, I found the concept of folding unique. My sweetheart folds beautifully. That task was something I carefully unlearned a very long time ago in one of those revelatory moments when I stood at my dresser with an armload of underwear and went ah-ha! prior to stuffing every last piece into the drawer.

In all practicality, why does underwear need to be neat? In this a femme thing?

ip: Never set a full basket of clean laundry down in the same room as the kitty litter box and forget it. Needless to say, we bade farewell to those no longer resplendent articles.

My sweetheart points out that I have standards too. For example, no cleaning rag is tossed out except by me. I have hidden stashes so I always have supplies for kitty or doggy accidents, to slop up my cooking messes, for spilled potting soil, fertilizers, and after oiling my trike in the garage. The microfiber cloths repose in their own special plastic basin under the sink and nowhere else, thank you very much.

All detergents must be fragrance free.

Shirts get squished into my closet. Except flannel shirts and sweatshirts. They are folded to go in a drawer. And t-shirts go on a shelf. And long sleeve t-shirts go on another shelf. Then there are good jeans that are hung up and scrungy jeans (not as scrungy as they once were) that are folded on a shelf. Recently, my grandmother’s red rocking chair has become the default repository for my clean and neat wardrobe. When the stack reaches a precarious height, I disperse it.

We spar over shelf space. I insist on shunting my clothes into far corners to make room for my wife’s. Hoping I will fill them, she leaves whole shelves open for me to store my things neatly. Neatly. Recently and without my knowledge, a case of paper towels found its way to an empty shelf. You could call it a compromise.

Alas, I’m a rebel at heart: In the hidden recess of my top drawer are my boxer shorts. They roll just as well as they fold and there are no telltale wrinkles.

MARCH 2016 39

EPICUREAN

FISHING FOR A HEALTHY MEAL?

SEAFOOD IS A SMART CHOICE When it comes to mealtime, are you thinking fish? You should!

Fish is the premiere natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are not naturally produced by the body and, therefore, must come from food. Unfortunately, many avoid eating fish based on fears associated with misinformation.

“Years ago, there were concerns that trace amounts of mercury in fish could be harmful, but, actually, hundreds of peer-reviewed studies show the health benefits of eating fish are real and the powerful nutrients in fish outweigh any potential concerns,” says Jennifer McGuire, MS, RD. “In fact, at a time when people are told to limit many foods, including popular proteins, seafood is among the handful of foods Americans are encouraged to eat more of for their health. Seafood is a satisfying and affordable source of protein that is easy to incorporate into meals twice a week.”

According to the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines, healthy eating patterns should include at least 8 ounces - or two servings - per week of a variety of seafood because it is an important part of eating patterns that contribute to a healthy heart and weight. Seafood also provides powerful nutrients including brain-building omega-3 fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, vitamin D, iron and selenium.

Currently, the average American eats about half of the recommended amount of seafood, and the average mom-to-be eats less than a quarter of the recommended amount each week. If you’re not eating as much fish as you should, don’t worry - making a shift to add more seafood to your diet is easier than you think. Just substitute fish for meat, such as in a taco, or add it to a pasta dish. Fish can be the main course of a quick weeknight dinner, a pack-ahead lunch or even a weekend brunch. Fish is so versatile, you can easily add it to pasta, rice, tacos or a scrumptious salad, like this easy-to-make farro, tuna and fennel salad with crumbled feta.

2 generous handfuls baby arugula 2-tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 2-tablespoon fresh lemon juice Zest of 1/2 lemon 1/4-teaspoon ground cumin 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook farro according to package directions. Drain well if any cooking water remains.

2. Transfer farro to a large bowl. Add tuna (flake with a fork), chickpeas, fennel, arugula, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, cumin and salt. Toss well.

3. Spoon into a shallow serving bowl or small platter and sprinkle feta over the top.

FARRO, TUNA AND FENNEL SALAD WITH CRUMBLED FETA Ingredients 1/2-cup farro, uncooked 1 (5-oz.) can tuna, drained 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1/2 large bulb fennel, cut in half, cored and sliced very thin

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That’s it! A quick, easy recipe that serves as a lunch or a light supper for four or as a side dish for six with just 310 calories and 12 grams of fat. It boasts 18 grams of protein as well as omega-3 fatty acids, too. To learn more about the benefits of seafood and find other healthy, easy recipes you can enjoy every day, visit GetRealAboutSeafood.com.

Humanitarian Award

The Van Patten Family

Join us April 3, 2016 at the 27th annual American Cancer Society Desert Spirit Gala while we “Taste and Toast to Help Find Cures!�

Festivities begin at 4:30PM at the Heckmann Estate for this polo-themed event.

Enjoy wine and beer tasting, live entertainment, dancing, and delicious dishes prepared by the deserts top restaurants!

Celebration of Life www.desertspirit.net Inspiration Award Award Tribute Memoriam

Linda Gray JAN BERGMAN

Lee Ames

Gloria Greer

Tom Davis HAROLD MATZNER

MARCH 2016 41

the3D’s RESTAURANTS WANG’S IN THE DESERT 424 S Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.WANG (9264) www.wangsinthedesert.com NATURE’S HEALTH FOOD & CAFE 555 S Sunrise Way Suite 301 Palm Springs, CA 760.323.9487 www.natureshealthfoodcafe.com SHERMAN’S DELI & BAKERY 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 760.325.1199 www.shermansdeli.com RÍO AZUL 350 S. Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 760.992.5641 www.rioazulpalmsprings.com AZUL RESTAURANT 369 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 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 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 760.327.5858 www.lulupalmsprings.com POMME FRITE 256 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 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 760.320.5503 www.thaismilepalmsprings.com TRIO RESTAURANT 707 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 760.864.8746 www.triopalmsprings.com THE TROPICALE 330 E Amado Road Palm Springs, CA 760.866.1952 www.thetropicale.com

BARS AND NIGHT CLUBS

ZIN AMERICAN BISTRO 198 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 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 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 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 760.323.0721 www.elmirasolrestaurants.com RICK’S RESTAURANT 1973 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY GET HIM ON THE LINE Try For Free

800-960-6843 ART + DESIGN mayakalabic.com

www.TrioPalmSprings.com

Ahora en Español /18+

For advertising inquiries please contact Nino@thestandardps.com TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE STANDARD PLEASE GO TO THESTANDARDPS.COM If you are an artist and would like to be considered for our ART VIEW - Artist Profile, please email us at info@thestandardps.com.

COMING UP NEXT MONTH •

GETTING READY FOR THE WARM UP

•

EVENING UNDER THE STARS

•

WHITE PARTY 2016

MARCH 2016 43

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EVENTS CALENDAR

MAR 11 & 12 MISS COCO PERU RETURNS TO PURPLE ROOM PALM SPRINGS All new show A Gentle Reminder Coco’s Guide To A Somewhat Happy Life where, through story and song, Coco shares with her audience a step by step guide that leaves you prepared to enter the world again ready to create your very own “somewhat” happy life. Why just a “somewhat” happy life? Well, let’s face it, you wouldn’t want to be happy all of the time because, always remember, “happy” people make such a racket. For info and tickets visit www.misscocoperu.bpt.me

Weekend, March 25-27, 2016. Not your typical Pride event, this event promises to be interactive, festive, and OUTrageous!

Schedule of Events: Friday, March 25, 2016 – Opening Night Kickoff Party Festival Lawn – Downtown Cathedral City, 4 pm – 9 pm Music on the Main Stage Equality Hot Air Balloon Rides West Coast Artists’ Art Festival (4 pm – 8 pm) Crowning of Ms. Cathedral City LGBT Days Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden Rocky Horror Picture Show at Desert Cinemas (9 pm)Bunny Bar Hop to Participating Night Clubs & Restaurants. For more details visit www.discovercathedralcity.com/diversity DBA EVENTS Mar 7 at 6pm DBA Board Installation and Business & Community Awards Dinner Double Tree by Hilton 67967 Vista Chino Cathedral City www.desertbusinessassociation.org

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

ONGOING >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> MAR 12 6TH ANNUAL CHALK ART FESTIVAL Palm Springs SunUp Rotary Club invites you to be join us at the 6th Annual Chalk Art Festival Artists will be creating chalk art masterpieces on the sidewalks, live music, hands-on art activities for children and much more.

Proceeds from the event go to Palm Springs SunUp Rotary Foundation and Arts in the Schools of the Palm Springs Unified School District. www.palmspringssunuprotary.org

MAR 25-27 CATHEDRAL CITY LGBT DAYS Join us for the First Pride Event of the year at the “Cathedral City LGBT Days” on Easter

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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

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 full-out 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 sought-after 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

MARCH 2016 45

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EVENTS CALENDAR Non-Profit Pavilion and the all new Family Pavilion. Created for attendees of all ages and types this is a once a year event that should not be missed. www.lgbtexpo.com

and friends. Each year, we partner with the Washington D.C. community to bring even more family activities, programming and community building to an already exciting weekend. www.familyequality.org

MAR 10 - 13

TEXAS BEAR ROUND-UP 21 DALLAS, TEXAS Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler in other words‌ Let the Good Times Roll! This year the theme is Mardi Gras. So get ready for beignets, gumbo and massive amounts of Bead tossing!...We have a great weekend planned with entertainment, food, activities, contest, and transportation to all our events and bars, our world famous hospitality room and of course eighteen hundred plus bears, cubs, admirers and more! For more info visit www.tbru.org

MARCH 27 MAR 18 - 20

WOMEN IN TRAVEL SUMMIT IRVINE, CA WITS is the first and only travel blogging summit by and for women. It educates, inspires, and connects female travel bloggers together, while also providing a forum for bloggers and travel brands to grow relationships with each other. www.sheswanderful.com

MAR 12 - 13

THE ORIGINAL LGBT EXPO NEW YORK, NY Held at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, the event features over 300 exhibiting companies, many of which are LGBT owned and operated, an engaging seminar series, live entertainment stage, LGBT Film series and much more! The 100,000+ square foot show floor also spotlights specific areas dedicated to some of the most popular industries catering to the LGBT community including the Silvercar.com Travel Pavilion, Wedding Pavilion, Small Business Pavilion,

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GAY EASTER PARADE NEW ORLEANS, LA This is a The 17th Annual Official Gay Easter Parade. The parade showcases the fashion and creativity of the entire LGBT community with gentlemen in summer suits/ tux with hats, and ladies in Easter suits/ dresses with Easter hats.

More info at www.gayeasterparade.com

APR 2 - 3

MAR 25

FAMILY WEEKEND IN DC WASHINGTON, DC Family Weekend in D.C. is Family Equality Council’s annual long-weekend event for area lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) parents, their children, extended families, prospective families,

PHOENIX PRIDE PHOENIX, ARIZONA Phoenix Pride unites and engages individuals and organizations to empower, educate and support the Arizona LGBTQ Community; and promotes a positive image in the Valley of the Sun and throughout Arizona through community activities and services. Featuring over 150 entertainment performances on 5 stages and over 300 Exhibitors showcasing a huge variety of food options, shopping opportunities and community resources. www.phoenixpride.org

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EVENTS CALENDAR

APR 1 - 11

MAR 19 - 26

EUROPEAN GAY SKI WEEK FRENCH ALPS The amazing resort of Avoriaz will host European Gay Ski Week. This is one of the most distinctive Alpine ski resorts you will probably ever visit; perched high on a rocky promontory it looks down over the cliff edge towards Morzine and beyond. Situated at the center of the Portes du Soleil it falls within the Chablais region of the Haute-Savoie.

The Avoriaz slopes are amazing, with variety for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. A broad selection of accommodations, suiting all budgets. The club nights, will be bigger and better than ever. More International Cabaret Artists & Performers than ever before.

Many varied ‘Après’ activities that will keep everyone busy and entertained from dusk till dawn. www.europeangayskiweek.com

MAR 31 - APR 3

RUBBOUT VANCOUVER, CANADA 2016 is the 25th installment of the Vancouver Rubbout party weekend for men who like rubber and fetish. We want to encourage all the rubber men out there to wear their sexiest sports gear to the weekend events; preferably in rubber, though Lycra and leather will also conjure up images of hot sweaty muscular men giving their all to win the game. Further info at www.rubbout.com

BALI COMPASSIONATE ARTS TOUR BALI, INDONESIA The focus of this Compassionate Arts Tour is to immerse in Karma philosophy and traditional Balinese arts and culture. Interact in Balinese everyday activities and working closely with Yayasan (non-profit) communities where collective donations will be given, respecting Trinity of Life - Man, Environment and Spirit.

Personal sketching, intertwined with leisure activities is geared to provide a balanced travel adventure. www.gekotour.org

MAR 20 - APR 3 MAR 23 - 28

BEAR PRIDE BARCELONA BARCELONA, SPAIN Bear Pride Barcelona, will gather for the first time Bears fans and followers from around the world in Barcelona. Bear Pride Barcelona, will feature a full schedule of activities, the best parties and national and international DJs will make this a must. www.bearpridebarcelona.com

YUMMY TUMMY TOUR AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND North and South Islands - New Zealand Food and Wine Lovers Tour. Food and wine lovers, this is your trip! If you enjoy trying new foods, locally sourced, seasonal, fresh, sometimes wild caught or hunted from the oceans or the bush, accompanied by some unique locally produced wine or craft beer, then you’ll fit right in on this trip. Seafood lovers, you’ll be in bliss.

For more info www.newzealandawaits.com

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

MARCH 2016 47

PHOTO REWIND STEVE CHASE HUMANITARIAN AWARDS PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE & THE STANDARD STAFF

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PHOTO REWIND MODERNISM PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

MARCH 2016 49

PHOTO REWIND INTERNATIONAL BEAR CONVERGENCE PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOSH REYES

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PHOTO REWIND INTERNATIONAL BEAR CONVERGENCE PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOSH REYES

MARCH 2016 51

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MARCH 2016 53

and

The City of Palm Desert present

Sunday, March 20, 2016 11:00 am - 4:30 pm

Palm Desert Civic Center Park

FREE to the Public

All the World’s a Stage: An Operatic Grand Tour

Professional orchestra of 32 and six professional singers.

Saluting and acknowledging the dedication and contributions of Brian Webb to the world of music.

11:00 a.m. - 11:55

Jazz offerings

Noon - 1:00 Sound check with orchestra and singers 1:00 - 1:50 1:50 - 2:00 2:00 - 4:30

Mr. Gale Enger on keyboard

Presentation of award and honors to Brian Webb

Opera show begins with a 20 minute intermission between acts

Children's activities: face painting, SCRAP Gallery and crafts, healing ponies, magic.

Art work displays.

Food and beverage for sale from: Taquiza el Chato, Dogs on the Run, E & E Pel's, and more.

Bring your blankets, chairs, umbrellas, family and friends for a beautiful day in the park

For Information visit www.OperaArtsPalmSprings.org or call 760-323-8353 S P O N S O R S

Peter & Judi Wasserman, Donna MacMillan, Jim Houston, Jim McGuire, Harold Matzner, Elizabeth & Jeffrey Moritz The Coeta & Donald Barker Foundation, John & Carley Pinkney, Jerome Angel, Gayle Hodges,

54 THESTANDARDPS.COM Joe Giarrusso, Sarah & Leo Milmet, Barbara Keller, Peggy Cravens, Helene Galen

Red

PRESENTS

ed R Dance

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SPONSORS

JOIN the FUN

MARY SUE SHELBY ALLEN

WILL COOK ROB MORRISON MIKE CULLEN RANDY LOWE CARY LOWE ALLEN AMES RICK HUTCHESON ROB KINCAID

Party SATURDAY MARCH 12 8:00PM to 2016 11:00PM

@SNAPSHOT PALM SPRINGS

4575 E. Camino Parocela Palm Springs, Ca 92264

MEDIA PARTNERS

outlook DESERT

FOR MORE INFORMATION please call 760.416.7790 or visit us online at www.thecenterps.org

the

CENTER

the heart of our community

CHARLES ROBBINS DAMON ROMINE

MARCH 2016 55

GARDEN PARTY APRIL 2, 2016

Join us in Palm Springs for NCLR’s annual Garden Party on April 2nd!

This year’s Garden Party is extremely special because we will be joined by two very exceptional honorees: California Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom and Salt Lake City’s first LGBT mayor Jackie Biskupski!

Hear from our incredible honorees and about our work to advance full equality for the entire LGBT community. NCLR Executive Director Kate Kendell and Legislative Policy Director Geoff Kors will give an update on all of our groundbreaking work. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Go Sponsorship to NCLRights.org/GardenParty to learn more about this year’s iconic honorees, sponsorship opportunities, and to purchase event tickets. Contact Corporate Relations & Events Manager, Dani Siragusa at Events@NCLRights.org or 415.365.1309.

California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom

Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski

JOIN OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS NCLRIGHTS.ORG/GARDENPARTY

Co-Chair: Larry Fulton & David Vogel | Carol Dunlap & Meredith Miller/True Value Palm Springs | Geoff Kors & James Williamson David Lee

Co-Host: Mark Anton and Scott Histed | Gordon & Sally Atkinson | Jim Carroll & Scott Romesburg | Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend | Lulu California Bistro | Lynn Hammond Catering | Harold Matzner | Palm Springs Safe Access | P.S. Resorts Kathryn Stebner

Premier: Dimitri Bakakos & Pjetur Sigurdson | Larry Colton & John McCoy | Brian Rix | Gary D. Soto & Matthew Tully Partner: Scott Davenport & Brad Dodson | Antionette DeVargas & Susan McCabe | David Feltman | Eight + Sand Clothing Ginny Foat & Pamela Genevrino | Chris Heritage/Heritage Legal, PC | Spencer’s Restaurant Darrell L. Tucci/Desert Aids Project | Trina Turk | Trio Restaurant | WorkOUT Gym

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