The Standard Magazine

MAY, 2016 VOLUME 4 ISSUE 5 THESTANDARDPS.COM

T R AV E L

ISSUE

Where Do You Go? LOCALS CHIME IN Travel Essentials Take 5 With Travel Guru Casey Zilionis

Family Hospice Care would like to thank ALL nurses for the special work they do and the caring they provide, especially during National Nurses Week (May 6-12).

Family Hospice Care has a team of compassionate, sensitive and above all skilled nurses who focus on the comfort and dignity of our patients. “Creating the highest quality of life while the quantity of life is limited� is our mission.

CONTENTS VOLUME 4, ISSUE 5

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DESIGN BY MAYA KALABIC

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Volume 4 Issue 5 PSP FOCUS QUEEN OF THE DESERT

COVER THE TRAVEL ISSUE LOCALS CHIME IN ON FAVORITE GETAWAYS

PAGES 30 - 31

COVER TAKE FIVE TRAVEL GURU CASEY ZILIONIS FEATURE TRAVEL MUST HAVES DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT THEM PSP FOCUS ROAD TO PRIDE PS PRIDE MAKES HUGE ECONOMIC IMPACT

MAY 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 Chris Astrala, Barry Dayton, Jeff Dorta, Chris Heritage, Dennis Mason, Terri Schlichenmeyer & Pinkie Merengue Shimmer www.thestandardps.com Editorial Credits : BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation & Project Publicity The Standard Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinions of the Standard or its staff, advertisers or readers with exception of editorials.

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

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be reproduced in any form without the expressed consent of the publisher.

COVER

WHERE DO I GO?

BY CHRIS ASTRALA Robert Louis Stevenson once said “For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” Whether your reason to move is to experience something new, re-experience something you have loved or to just get away and unwind, you know you want to go somewhere. Be it boat, plane, train, car, horseback, regardless of how you go, you just know you

want to go. Where do you start? Some of us use a travel agent, others go to the web. But most of the time we consult with a friend or family member who has visited the spot you are planning on going to. So with that in mind we asked some of our local friends and family the following question: Where is your favorite place to travel to and getaway from it all and why? This what they had to say.

My favorite vacation spot is Mackinac Island between the two peninsulas of Michigan. The Mackinac Bridge spans go two landmasses and to the east is a gem of an island. My favorite spot on the island is the Grand Hotel. It’s where the movie Somewhere In Time was shot and I happened to be there during the filming.

Christopher Reeves was dreamy and I had a crush.

The Palm Springs area is like a continual vacation (especially after growing up in the snow and cold of the Midwest) with gorgeous weather here, palm trees, pools and the resort atmosphere and community. Give me triple digits! However, love to get away to Hawaii-Maui and the beaches and tropical breezes (and look for coconut bra’s and grass skirts!).

Brad Fuhr, E Publisher GayDesertGuide.com

Bella da Ball Social Ambassador, Hostess with the Mostest

My favorite place for a true getaway is the Tahitian island of Moorea. Everyday worries come to an immediate halt with the simple lifestyle, friendly locals, crystal clear waters which are ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling, plus lush hiking trails in the jungle region of the island. I’m counting the days to our return trip this summer!

Steve Seager, Realtor

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Rosarita Mexico; I love the cool air and the ocean weather there with the wonderful plants and flowers. My second favorite thing is coming back across the boarder and watching the checkpoint officer’s face when I still had my male name and gender on my driver’s license. I love the flattery that I had changed so much.

Thomi Clinton CEO of Transgender Community Coalition

It would have to be France. Though we’re still exploring different parts of the country, over the years we keep gravitating to the Cote d’Azur... Provence, Cannes, Nice... The people are lovely, the food and wine are spectacular, and it’s a nice gentle pace. Park me on a beach on the French Riviera and I’m in heaven.

Tim O’Bayley C.E.O. & Creative Director O’Bayley Communications

Puerto Vallarta, After a short flight my partner Albert and I can be on the beach by 3. It is close but far enough away to truly escape. Amazing beaches by day and great restaurants at night...... The perfect spot to unwind and relax.

Willie Rhine Co-Owner 849 Restaurant

After entertaining on 77 gay cruises worldwide and visiting many ports-of-call, I am most in love with the Hong Kong to Singapore route with stops all through Vietnam and Thailand. I got a $20 massage in almost every port. The shopping, dining and tourism is affordable along the whole route and the people, the culture and the food is so different and wonderful.

Shann Carr Comedian, Producer, Realtor

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COVER The Island of Ibiza, Spain is by far my favorite destination. This idyllic oasis is home to some of the world’s most picturesque beaches and coves and is the Mediterranean playground for Europeans. On one side of the island is the old ancient city filled with unique street artisans, boutique shops and cafes. The new city with its bustling marina is brimming with nightclubs, known for their all night parties and delicious restaurants featuring global cuisine.

Jeff Hocker, President Hocker Productions

One of the most memorable experiences we had was hiking through the hot and humid Costa Rican jungle. We were mesmerized by the beauty of the tropical plants, various species of animals and of course the friendly locals. We’ll definitely be back!”

Jerry Meza Account Director/Producer Reaction Marketing

Our favorite chill get away is Lake Tahoe off-season. Spring or fall, the lake and surrounding trails are almost empty.

Daniel Clemens / Jim Haggerty Owners - Desert Landscape Design

My favorite place to travel to... Hmmmm. That’s a tough one, as there are so many great places both near and far to explore. But if I had to choose one place, it would be Rio de Janeiro. I have dear friends who live there and have visited five times after our first meeting in 1984. The natural setting of the city is one of the most spectacular on earth, the food is amazing, and the people are beautiful, warm, and friendly.

David A. Lee David A. Lee Photography

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COVER My favorite place to travel to is the high desert. I love Joshua Tree and the energy, light and tranquility that exists there. It’s a different world that is an hour away.

Michael Weems Owner Michael Weems Collections

Ojai is an idyllic town in Ventura County, located in Ojai Valley. It’s about 3 hours away from Palm Springs. It’s hip, rustic-style and a short walk or bike ride to downtown area, shopping and restaurants. The climate of Ojai is Mediterranean. Leave your stress behind and getaway to Ojai, you will feel refreshed and well rested.

Maya Kalabic Owner Maya Kalabic Art + Design Art Director, The Standard Magazine

Hawaii is my favorite go to place. I attended the University of Hawaii and have many great memories of the islands. I love the community feeling, the beauty that surrounds you and so many peaceful and relaxing beaches. Another bonus is that it’s a short plane ride so you don’t lose a day traveling.

Ron deHarte President, Palm Springs Pride

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Cruises! I love to unpack once and have my hotel float along with me! In the past few years I’ve done both European river cruises and big ships in the Mediterranean and though the experience is quite different, the bottom-line is that cruising offers the biggest bang for your buck. Getaway?...This year it’s our Tahiti cruise in August…powder blue water, white sand, delicious cuisine and cocktails and TOTAL relaxation…a great way to getaway from the searing heat of the desert!

Tony Marchese Co-Owner Trio Restaurant

TAKE FIVE

TAKE FIVE WITH TRAVEL GURU, CASEY ZILIONIS Casey Zilionis is owner of CruiseC2C, Palm Spring’s newest travel agency. With over thirty years in the travel industry, Casey’s career has taken him around the world as an international flight attendant, a tour guide, and an advertising executive for various cruise lines. Now he’s living his dream and using his vast experience to create perfect vacations for our local LGBT community. CruiseC2C organizes the annual TRIO CRUISE. 1. What are some of the top travel trends for 2016?

Though events around the world might indicate otherwise, my clients continue to request trips to international and exotic destinations.

No doubt Cuba is now on our hotlist as is Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos with lots of interest in Hong Kong. Europe continues to be very popular…especially exciting and chic cities like Berlin and Lisbon.

We also get a lot of requests for European river cruises (thanks to Rick Steves and Viking’s aggressive ad campaigns). What is most interesting to me is observing and responding to the changing needs of our LGBT community as they enter their Golden Years. “All-gay” vacations seem to become less important, but there is still is a strong desire to travel with like-minded people seeking a mix of luxury and soft adventure! It seems that our older clients actually prefer a mixed demographic of travelers, both straight and gay.

benefits of a cruise vacation. The modern cruise ship has become a destination in itself…a floating resort with ever-changing views!

I often hear people say that “the cruise ship doesn’t stay at a port long enough”, but then they’re very happy to get back after a day of touring, grab a martini and enjoy the luxurious service of a waiter who knows their preferences and calls them by name.

There’s something to say for a hotel that follows you around on your vacation! Of course, there are still many places in this world that must be experienced by land, but when planning these trips I try to keep the amount of time “on the road” to a minimum, with longer stays at each destination.

2. In your opinion what are some of the best destinations for LGBT travel?

Love this question as I find myself answering it numerous times each day! Here it goes…not in any particular order…

Of course the easiest answer is to list the usual suspects such as Puerto Vallarta, Provincetown and Key West. These destinations along with all-gay cruises such as RSVP and Atlantis offer an overthe-top fun and comfortable environment for the LGBT traveler and I personally like to have my “boy’s week” at least once a year. That said, I often suggest LGBT destinations that are a bit further down the road, but just as welcoming such as South Africa, Scandinavia, Spain and Cambodia (which has become a hotspot for LGBT travelers!).

1) Internet on the go! If you don’t have data access via your phone ISP then carry a small MiFi device. Almost every travel question or dilemma can be answered with a Google, TripAdvisor or map search. Renting a compact Mifi unit is easy from companies such as TEP Wireless or XCom Global. Also…a small portable power charger (Mophie) for when your phone goes dead at the most inconvenient time!

3. Cruise vacations or land vacations?

Which do you prefer and why?

As I get older I am definitely enjoying the “unpack once”

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4. What are 5 must haves for any traveler?

2) A light, nylon windbreaker that can be scrunched and tossed into a bag. This will save you from almost any weather event, keeping you dry, warm and/or cool when you need it!

3) An extra, empty duffle bag! Throw this into your luggage

and you won’t have to worry about how to carry all of your shopping home! It also serves as a great laundry bag during your trip.

4) Copies of your passport, visas, and credit cards. Make paper copies and keep them in your suitcase and your carry-on.

Keep photocopies on your smartphone. Also, if you keep your pills in an organizer, then take photos of the original prescription containers.

I can’t tell you the number of times that these little bits of precaution have saved a vacation for a client!

5) A “murse”, “manbag”, backpack or whatever you want to call it! When touring, you will no doubt be schlepping all types of “must haves” like your passport, various currencies, camera, phone, charger, water, etc. A simple bag with a strap long enough to wear diagonally across your shoulders is a Godsend when running around the world.

5. What is YOUR favorite destination to let your hair down?

No doubt…Tahiti. There’s something incredibly exotic and enchanting about the South Pacific. There’s truly not a lot to do except relax. You’ll feel it the moment you step off the plane (frankly you may start feeling very relaxed when the gorgeous Air Tahiti Nui flight attendant serves your first Mai Tai!). Tahiti can be a bit expensive, however, so I usually like to circumnavigate the islands on a 7-day all-inclusive cruise such as the Paul Gauguin, and then finish off with a few days at an overwater bungalow on Bora-Bora or Moorea. I promise you’ll come home a new person!

To reach Casey and plan your next unforgettable trip visit www.cruisec2c.com

MAY 2016 13

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TRAVEL TIPS

SAVE ON TRAVEL WITH A LITTLE PLANNING Let’s face it, Vacations can be expensive, from costly flights to overpriced hotel rooms, those travel memories can often be far from priceless. But just how expensive are we talking?

A survey conducted by American Express AXP +0.76% found that the average person planned to spend $1,180 on a summer vacation … that’s $1,180 per person. By that estimate, a family of four budgeted a staggering $4,720 for a getaway.

You don’t have to do the same. Here are some budget-friendly airline booking tricks that can shave hundreds of dollars off your next flight.

1. Use Airline Consolidators These airline ticket resellers work with major travel companies to sell tickets at reduced prices. Think of it this way: Consolidators are wholesalers (much like Costco) who buy in bulk. Due to existing relationships, travel agents can purchase tickets from consolidators and then sell them to consumers. It’s a win/win: Consolidators offload their tickets without dealing directly with clients, and travel agents gain access to rock bottom fares.

But there’s a catch. Just because a travel agent could pass on these discounts to clients doesn’t mean that they will. Fortunately, you can bypass the travel agent and book directly with a consolidator to get the reduced rate. Just be aware that the best rates are usually found for international travel, as well as U.S. domestic business and first class flights.

Here are some of my favorite consolidators: 1800flyeurope.com Airfare.com Airfareplanet.com Airlineconsolidator.com Airtreks.com Bargaintravel.com Cheaptickets.com Globester.com Tfitours.com 2. Book in Advance When it comes to finding inexpensive flights, the general rule is the more available seats, the cheaper the airline ticket. So booking well in advance is usually your best bet—it’s a good idea to make your

arrangements a minimum of 21 weeks prior to your departure date.

After that, airlines increase fares incrementally up until the departure date. So the closer your departure date, the higher the price.

3. Clear Your Web Browsing History It happens all of the time. You find a cheap flight online, search for it again later that day … and the price has skyrocketed. Why? All booking sites record your web browsing data and some (e.g.

Travelocity) use this information to raise prices when you’re interested in a flight. If you clear your web browsing data (known as a cache), there’s a chance that you’ll find the original price.

4. Be Flexible About Dates This is the number one way to save when it comes to booking flights–we’re talking hundreds of dollars. The cheapest days to fly are generally Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. And now that booking agents offer a “flexible date” search, finding the cheapest flight is easy. These companies offer such searches: Hotwire.com Orbitz.com Travelocity.com Cheapflightsfinder.com 5. Research Airline Hubs Every airline has a “hub”—sometimes more than one—where the majority of their flights arrives and departs. For example, British Airways uses London Heathrow Airport and JetBlue Airways uses John F. Kennedy International Airport. Generally, flights to and from these hubs are inexpensive because there are more flights to choose from. So if your final destination isn’t a major hub, check prices to the hub first, and then look for an additional flight from the hub to your final destination you could save a lot of money in the process.

6. Book on the Right Day There are countless opinions on the best day to book flights for the best price. But a study by FareCompare.com claims that the top fare deals are found early in the week—specifically Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, when airlines post discount prices.

Thanks to Forbes.com for contributing to this piece.

FEBRUARY 2016 15

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

5 TRAVEL MUST HAVES Here are a handful of gadgets that can make travel - both business and for leisure - less stressful and help keep your gadgets safe and charged up while you are away from your home or office.

your device from any damage. Even with these innovative features, iClever Dual USB Wall Charger is surprisingly compact, lightweight, perfect for travel and very affordable. www.iclever.com

iClever BoostCube Dual USB Wall Charger with SmartID Technology Did you know that not all chargers charge a device equally fast? Enhanced by the SmartID technology, the smart USB port is capable of identifying a specific device, and thus ensuring maximum charging efficiency and speed.

With SmartID, iClever charger “knows� your device and charges at the maximum speed. The technology they are using optimizes performance for various devices and multiple circuit protections, such as short circuit, over current, and over temperature, protect

Leather Cable Organizer Roll by FistCase Keep your stuff together with the Leather Cable Organizer Roll

by FistCase. Ready to be tossed into your bag and accessed at any moment, this unique solution will keep your accessories in a single and memorable place. The Leather Cable Organizer Roll has six elastic loops stitched inside and each can be stretched to hold your charging cables, ear buds, writing utensils, or even your sunglasses

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

Videos automatically play as people scroll through the feed.

Very affordable.

MOTION & VISUALS 760-980-1050 | scott@motionandvisuals.com 16 THESTANDARDPS.COM

CARDIOVASCULAR EXCELLENCE

A NEW TOUCH-SENSITIVE« CATHETER IMPROVES AFIB TREATMENT BY 30%. « GET IN TOUCH TO LEARN MORE. Atrial fibrillation, or Afib, is a dangerous irregular heartbeat that can lead to stroke or heart failure. The standard treatment is catheter ablation, in which a catheter is guided up to the heart through a blood vessel. Once the catheter reaches the tiny area of tissue causing arrhythmia, the electrophysiologist destroys it using radiofrequency, laser or cryotherapy.

Eisenhower Desert Cardiology Center is the only practice in the valley to perform catheter ablation with the Tacti-cath, an innovative touch-sensitive catheter. Using fiber optic technology, our experts can monitor the exact amount of pressure exerted during ablation, delivering the most precise results possible. Tacti-cath offers significant advantages:

««3D mapping for more precise guided imaging ««Greater control for faster, more efficient, and safer catheter ablation

««30% improvement in outcomes, with redo rates below the national average

Learn more at heart.emc.org or call 760-346-0642 for an appointment.

Leon Feldman, MD, and Andrew Rubin, MD, Board Certified Electrophysiologists

Eisenhower Medical Center ★ Hal B. Wallis Building 39000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

Eisenhower Argyros Health Center 45280 Seeley Drive, La Quinta, CA 92253

Eisenhower Health Center at South Palm Canyon 415 S. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, CA 92264

MAY 2016 17

TRAVEL all with a snug fit. On end is a bonus leather buckle to keep a key always at hand. The Leather Cable Organizer Roll simply rolls up into itself and secures closed with a durable elastic loop and button design. www.thegadgetflow.com SnapCam Wearable HD Camera by iON Share your world with your friends live with the SnapCam Wearable HD Camera by iON. Easily clipping onto your clothing or gear, this camera records in beautiful 720p HD at 30 frames per second and has an 8-megapixelimage sensor for photos. Ultra compact and lightweight, the SnapCam is activated by a single tap for photo mode and video mode with a double tap. The long lasting battery lets this connected camera show off your adventures with a live feed for up to an hour with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. When it’s not connected, the SnapCam has an incredible weeklong battery life. The slip on the back is magnetics but can also be swapped over to a fully magnetic plate for a strong hold anywhere. A durable band wraps around the outside of the SnapCam, keeping safe the ports for the charging cable and the micros card. www.usa.ioncamera.com

AirBuds Memory Foam Ear Buds Enjoy music more comfortably than ever before with AirBuds, the memory foam ear buds. The expandable memory foam construction is super comfortable. To use, simply squeeze the ear buds to place in your ear and, when released, they will automatically expand to fit your ear canal perfectly. The tight fit of AirBuds reduces outside noise allowing you to listen to music at a lower, safe volume while still getting quality audio you’d expect. AirBuds are the answer for more comfortable, convenient, and tangle free ear buds. www.air-buds.com

The Kooshy Travel Pillow Finally a more comfortable way to sleep is here. First class travel for economy class passengers is now possible with the use of The Kooshy travel pillow. Simply open your Kooshy, assemble the parts, and in seconds you will be leaning forward and sleeping comfortably. www.thekooshy.com

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Offer and prices are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. Refer to celebritycruises.com for additional terms and conditions.

MAY 2016 19

MODERN LUXURY LIVES HERE.

ART VIEW

GARY PATERSON The geometric surfaces of the paintings by Gary Paterson are derived from the decorative concrete blocks used in Midcentury architecture. Palm Springs homes from this era often include a “brise soleil” – outdoor living space within the privacy of a wall, created to separate the house from street noise and traffic. These walls have geometric-shaped holes that allow air movement. The patterns of the individual blocks fit together and create larger patterns.

Paterson’s images are constructed in the same way these walls were built – block upon cinder block. Each block’s shape is the same shape as the canvas. This repetition of shape in varying scales creates interesting rhythm and movement that would not be anticipated within a geometric grid.

The images are seen “through” these patterns, with the different layers being created by careful control of color values (light-to-dark). When the pattern of the painted blocks coincides with the block pattern of the actual wall being depicted, the viewer sees – vaguely - through the holes, as is the case with the actual walls, and the pattern seems flat, fastened to the surface. This creates another visual focus.

Mr. Paterson has been a Palm Springs resident since 2003. He worked for the Palm Springs Art Museum for five years as the Artists Council Coordinator. He is represented by Local Color Gallery, 220 E. Arenas Road, Palm Springs.

His website is garypaterson.com.

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BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED…

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

THE BATTLE FOR ROOM 314 AUTHOR PHOTO CREDIT: SAM ZALUTSKY

What was the name of your favorite teacher?

Even after all these years, you still remember the smell of chalk, the sound of her reading aloud, the way he pulled ideas from your head or music from your fingers. That teacher changed your life, and “The Battle for Room 314” by Ed Boland, you’ll get a view of today’s classroom – one you’ll barely recognize.

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What was a nice, educated gay man doing in a snarling pit of teenage attitude?

With sweaty palms and a worthless planner, newly-minted teacher Ed Boland wondered that himself. Inspired by teachers in his family, he’d given up a well-paying job to teach but the ninth-grade class he’d gotten wasn’t what he bargained for.

Because Boland had spent a year teaching English in China, he figured he had a “leg up” on a job at Manhattan’s Union Street School, “a new combined middle and high school” that focused on history and international studies. Teaching there, he’d been led to believe, was a dream job and, since he’d already worked with “promising” but disadvantaged New York-area minority students through Project Advance, he thought he knew the kind of fresh-faced students he’d have.

Instead, what he found in the classroom that fall were sullen, attitudinal, sometimes violent young adults, many (if not most) of whom were dealing with absentee parents, drug abuse, poverty, pregnancy, and bullying. Some of his new ninth-grade students were in their very late teens; many were unable to write in complete sentences or do age-appropriate schoolwork. At least one barely spoke English.

And yet, with a Hollywood-happy ending on his mind, Boland persevered. He hoped to connect with the kids, though they were often uncontrollable. He dreamed they would eventually learn something, though they usually ignored his lessons. And when the year was over, he had considered staying at Union Street but he just couldn’t.

“I so wish it were a different ending for me and for the kids,” says Boland, “but some stories have to end like a seventies movie – gritty, real, and sad.”

The solution to the country’s school- and grade-based issues, says author Ed Boland, is a multi-faceted one, beginning with more education for the educators. There are other fixes, too, and “The Battle for Room 314” offers them.

But that’s not all: Boland, overall, tells a story that’s both shocking and unsurprising; part To Sir, With Love and part battlefield skirmish.

There are occasional moments of too much information (both personal and classroom) but even more of frustration and missed opportunity (again, on two levels). What Boland shares left me feeling glum, mostly, but there are shadows of hope in this book – especially at the end, when he wraps up his story with a chapter of follow-ups.

Though you should be reminded that it’s representative of one man’s experience in one school, this book offers hard lessons. Still, if you’ve ever fretted about the state of education – on either side of the teacher’s desk – “The Battle for Room 314” goes to the head of the class.

“The Battle for Room 314” by Ed Boland c.2016, Grand Central $26.00 / $31.50 Canada 243 pages

MAY 2016 23

MUSIC I

RAPH SOLO’S GOOD MORNING LONDON

BY JEFF DORTA

Raph Solo’s “Good Morning London,” the second single off of his new album, The Anonymous Icon, is a love letter to the city he calls home. “The song is about being yourself, no matter what they say,” says Solo. “Good Morning London” releases to iTunes Raph Solo’s fulllength studio album, The Anonymous Icon, is also available on iTunes.

“It’s a metaphorical breakup song about finding your way home,” continues Solo of his sultry new single. “As a songwriter, I never sit down to write a song. It’s an organic process. When I feel inspired, the melody and the lyrics come out together as one.”

With a hit dance record under his belt, it’s intuitive that Solo never stops moving—not even to write a tender pop ballad. “I remember writing the song on the street, walking from my ex’s flat to my friend’s flat. My ex and I were living together at the time, and things had gotten so bad that I called up a friend to ask if I could stay over for a few nights until I found a new place to stay.”

Solo credits “Good Morning London” as one of the quickest songs he’s ever written in his career as a songwriter, while walking down the streets of London, no less. Nonchalantly, he says, “I wrote it in three minutes.”

Solo reunites with video director David Brant on the “Good Morning London” music video. “It was really nice to be asked to work with Raph again, for what is now our third music video together,” says Brant. “Raph always has a strong idea of what he wants up front. Visually, we’re both into that quirky, surreal, cinematic, and epic look. We just have a similar aesthetic that seems to set the mood perfectly against his music.”

Solo likens baring his chiseled body on the set of “Good Morning London” to baring his soul as an artist. As the track hits full stride, Solo is seen with a big British flag wrapped around his otherwise-naked torso in a scene that’s become synonymous with the singer-producer’s mantra of authenticity and self-acceptance. Solo salutes a new day and a new chapter in his life, he says, with the words “Be you” scrawled on his back, and a bruised eye.

“Often we lose ourselves in relationships, and we end up saying

‘yes’ to please our partners because we love them, when really we want to say ‘no’,” Solo explains. “And sweetness gets taken for weakness, and the fairytale turns into a nightmare.”

“We should always remember to love and honor ourselves enough to stay true to who we are in relationships, romantic or otherwise.” The bruised eye, he says, is symbolic of the price he had to pay to learn that lesson the hard way.

The song’s standout lyrics, “City life is no piece of cake that you can have with your cup of tea on your morning break,” speak to Solo’s state of mind and the vivacity of the city he loves. Today, he stands tall as a gay man and outspoken advocate for human rights, and he can have his cake and eat it, too.

Inspired by up-tempo 80’s pop and contemporaries like Burt Bacharach and Marvin Hamlisch, the combination of Solo’s vocals, Alex Pacali’s sweeping riffs, and David Brant’s hypnotic stroke of the keys leaves listeners spellbound. His third record sees the full realization of Solo’s signature timbre, layered with new refinement with every passing year and release, akin to the evolution of any true pop powerhouse. Solo colors his second single with a burst of falsettos, putting his vocal range on parade.

The Anonymous Icon includes many of Solo’s prior releases, redigitalized and re-mastered by studio maestro Leigh Darlow (Peter Banks, Robert Fripp).

MAY 2016 25

MUSIC II JASON WALKER, CHRIS WILLIS AND TONY MORAN COLLABORATE

BY JEFF DORTA Two-time Grammy nominated dance producer Tony Moran and Out Music Award winner Jason Walker unite on the season’s most powerful pop-dance record, “So Happy”. Written by Tony Moran and Chris Willis – the American gospel singer turned electronic dance music phenomenon for his work with David Guetta - the epic single features an amazing vocal performance by Jason Walker, a superstar collection of remixes and a visionary music video by Karl Giant. “So Happy” is available now on iTunes.

“With all that’s happening in the world today, isn’t that what everyone wants: to be happy and feel good,” wonders Jason Walker from his home in New York City. “The dance floor is my happy place.

It’s where I can forget my troubles and let the music take over. For me, music is the universal truth and when a hard beat pulses through my body, there is simply no better feeling than that. My hope is that ‘So Happy’ lifts listeners to their own place of pure joy.”

When deciding on a location to shoot the song’s music video, videographer Karl Giant – who has shot videos for Cyndi Lauper, Ultra Nate, and The One’s - had in mind a destination that was a bit grander in scale than a dance floor. He whisked Walker to a land of breathtaking panoramas and transcendent realities.

“We went to the Salt Flats in Utah!” Walker explains. “It turned out to be one of the most exhilarating, life-changing experiences ever. Five days in the desert was insanely riveting.”

This isn’t the first time Giant and Walker have collaborated on a music video. Their music video for “I Can’t Get You Off My Mind” reached #1 on MTV LOGO’s “The Click List”.

Jason Walker grew up in Pittsburgh, singing in church choirs and then in local R&B and Blues bands. He first shined on the national spotlight with a winning performance on TV’s “It’s Show Time at the Apollo”.

He recorded two albums, “This Is My Life” and “Flexible”, on dance music icon Junior Vasquez’s music label, garnering three Top 10 Billboard hits (“My Life”, “No More”, and “Movin’ On”), two Billboard #1s (“Foolish Mind Games” and “Set It Free”) and 2 IDMA (International Dance Music Award) nominations including one for Best Breakthrough Dance Artist.

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In 2010, Walker set out on his own, releasing his third fulllength album “Leave It All Behind”, independently and landing his seventh Top 20 Billboard Dance hit. His eighth release, “Raise Your Hands”, climbed to #17 on the Billboard charts. He followed with “Beat Don’t Stop”, a song that peaked at #5 on Billboard, and then “Tell It To My Heart”, an explosive re-imagining of Taylor Dayne’s pop classic, produced by Bimbo Jones, that hit #10 on Billboard.

“I’m extremely proud of Jason’s performance on So Happy,” says Tony Moran. “It is destined to become a crossover pop hit.”

Tony Moran should know. In addition to an impressive list of #1 dance singles including Kristine W’s “Walk Away” and Martha Wash’s “Keep Your Body Working” and “Free People”, Moran has remixed tribal house anthems for some of pop’s biggest artists including Beyoncé, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez and Madonna.

“I am truly the definition of So Happy”, reflects Jason Walker.

“In my career, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with all the dance greats from Junior Vasquez to Bimbo Jones, and now Tony Moran!“ “Each is so different with his own unique style of producing a vocal,” he continues. “The one thing all have in common is a passion and tenacity that drives them. Making dance records is hard work but when done right, boy, is it magical. Dance music has the power to make everyone ‘So Happy’.”

Visit JasonWalkermusic.com

Return to work Return to school Return to a more vibrant life!

HIV shouldn’t stop anyone from living their most complete life!

In 2015, we found jobs for 104 of our clients – 3 have internships – 30 are volunteering and 3 more have returned to school.

Big thanks to our business partners who are helping our Career Building Program help our clients achieve their goals!

MAY 2016 27

PSP FOCUS

ROAD TO PRIDE 2016

BY RON DEHARTE

Greater Palm Springs Pride Week Makes Huge Economic Impact.

The Greater Palm Springs Pride nonprofit organization recently announced the results from its annual economic impact review of the Pride Week celebration in November 2015. Data from attendees participating in official events including the Pride Festival and Pride Parade reveals that the 2015 human rights and cultural tourism celebration generated over $22 million dollars of organization and audience expenditures in the region. The impact increased from $20 million in 2014.

Named as one of the “Best 11 Gay Pride Festival Trips on the Planet” by Jetsetter Magazine in 2015, attendance at more than two-dozen official Palm Springs Pride events passed 130,000. In addition to direct spending by attendees at events and parties, tourism revenue was generated from lodging, transportation, retail shopping, and restaurants.

The Pride organization’s year-round marketing efforts coupled with those of the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism and the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau reinforce the first weekend of November in Palm Springs as a destination location to travelers around the world. Core attendance figures are fueled by locals, day visitors and tourists from drive markets. In 2015, the celebration also played host to visitors from across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, Germany and Australia.

“Pride Week is a time when the City of Palm Springs is showcased as a diverse and supportive community,” said Ron deHarte, president of Greater Palm Springs Pride. “Our vibrant LGBT community, allies and visitors from around the world relish the inclusivity of Pride Week.”

Pride Week’s November festival is a multi-day celebration of diversity, inclusivity, art, fashion and culture. The twenty-five official events in 2015 included the GQ Goes West fashion show, Broadway in Drag Pageant, multiple pool parties, Dyke March, L-Fund Women’s Dance, Arenas Rd. Block Party, a two-day festival, and the Pride parade.

The City of Palm Springs has been home to Pride events since 1986 and has played a significant role supporting Pride since the parade was first moved to Palm Canyon Dr. in 1997. The Pride Week celebration of equality, diversity and unity, is the single largest civic LGBT event in Palm Springs.

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Pride Week 2016 is scheduled for November 1-6. Key events will include the November 1 George Zander Candle Light Vigil and March in memory of all victims of hate crimes, the Pride Parade on November 6 and the two-day Pride Festival on November 5 and 6.

The three events are featured highlights of Palm Springs Pride Week.

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

About Greater Palm Springs Pride: Greater Palm Springs Pride (pspride.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community enhancement organization established to promote the public education and awareness of individual rights and civil liberties of the LGBT community and to promote the history, diversity and future prosperity of the Greater Palm Springs LGBT community.

Celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2016, the organization continues to serve as a catalyst for celebrating the strength, equality, dignity and self-determination of the LGBT community locally and globally.

Programs of the organization include the Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast, Pride Parade and Festival, the Community Pride Breakfast, Pride Honors Awards, the Arenas Rd. Block Party, OUT PSP and the new Pet Pride Parade.

MAY 2016 29

PSP FOCUS

WHO WILL BE THE 2016 QUEEN OF THE DESERT?

BY BARRY DAYTON

They say “the third time is a charm” but we’re sure you’ll find charming to be a pale description of the 3rd Annual Queen of the Desert on Wednesday, June 1 at the Renaissance Palm Springs, benefiting Desert AIDS Project.

Maybe something more along the lines of FUN … FABULOUS … and FIERCE!!

Last year was a sold-out crowd of 600, so make sure you get your tickets soon by visiting desertaidsproject.org. You can even get a jump-start on making your choice of Queen-wannabee feel the love by voting for your Fan Favorite before the evening even begins!

The fun begins with cocktails at 6:00 PM and showtime at 7:00.

Ethylina Canne – voted Fan Favorite in 2014 – is thrilled to be back for a second year as the show’s emcee, to keep the action moving along, and said “This year’s pageant is going to be bigger and better than ever … with more contestants, more surprises and MORE sequins!”

Bella Da Ball – a small-town boy from Minnesota who says he’s been wearing skirts and high heels as long as he can remember – will be helping out as the evening’s “voice of goddess” and Diva Pledge announcer.

Luckily, Ethylina and Bella can leave the judging to this auspicious panel: Delta Work is one of a select group of female impersonators who nabbed a coved spot on the reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

Boasting a career of 20 years in the art of impersonation, Delta is a part of an elite group of entertainers who produce the worldacclaimed Dreamgirls Revue of Southern California.

Gypsy, aka James Haake, is 83 years old – but still struts his stuff in stilettos with a touring casino production called Carnival Cabaret. No wonder Gypsy was inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest working female impersonator in the world. Known coast to coast and around the world, is it any wonder Gypsy was recently immortalized on Palm Springs Walk of Stars?

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Maude Chapeau & Dottie Du Bois, of Les Dames du Soleil fame, share that “Palm Springs Star” status with Gypsy … their star was awarded in 2007 … and no wonder. Decades of fundraising for AIDS-related charities, including more than $1 million for D.A.P. alone, have also earned them a Steve Chase Humanitarian Award in 2001 and the Outstanding Philanthropic Volunteers Award in 2011.

Get ready for DIVA-licious entertainment …

(Contestant photos in circles appear to each name) Anita Rose Performing all around Southern California for the last four years, we know her locally from AlibiAzul, the Hard Rock Hotel, and venues in Redlands. Anita Rose is also performing in Seattle alongside Sharron Stone and Tyra Banks.

Jazmyn Simone-Echelon This premier Southern California dancing queen is D.A.P.’s current reigning Queen of the Desert. Jazmyn has won many competitions over her career and continues to do her best to give back to the community by providing real entertainment for great causes.

Mystic Befierce Miller Taking the stage since she was 19, this Riverside native says performing has been life changing. It’s apparent that Mystic loves what she does and she says she knows she has what it takes to be the next Queen of the Desert.

Pinkie Meringue Shimmer Already known as Queen of the Headdresses – thanks to the talents of her husband Kevin – this Alabama native runs the “Quilting with Pinkie” group every Monday at D.A.P. where she has been a big supporter for years. Living with HIV for 18 years has never slowed Pinkie down from giving her time and talent to local organizations or performing weekly at Oscar’s and Copa.

PSP FOCUS

Sheena Wolfe This local girl is co-owner of Dynamic Dance & Fitness in Cathedral City where she inspires people to lose weight, remain healthy, and stay fit … all while having fun. Although fairly new to the scene, Sheena has had a passion for the art of female impersonation for many years.

Tommi Rose With more than four DECADES of entertaining audiences around the world, the “retirement” Tommi began in Palm Springs 15 years ago has been anything but retiring. Cabaret performing, acting, DJ’ing, and serving on the boards of several charitable organizations have more than filled that time.

Trixie Garnett This sweet-but-sassy drag concoction is no desert mirage. Trixie says she’s a Jill-of-All-Trades whose goal is to raise awareness and break down pre-conceived stigmas around HIV and AIDS. Trixie is a lover, not a fighter, who says “Let’s work together for a cause … not applause.”

IF YOU GO 3rd Annual Queen of the Desert June 1 / Cocktails 6:00 pm Show 7:00 pm Renaissance Hotel Palm Springs Tickets: www.desertaidsproject.org

MAY 2016 31

LEGALLY SPEAKING

THE LGBT FACE OF TERRORISM

BY CHRISTOPHER HERITAGE

The LGBT community in the U.S. is often the target of hate crimes committed by individuals and groups who have a deep-seated resentment toward those with sexual orientation or gender identity different from themselves. They perceive gays, for example, as a biblical evil and a danger to children, and take it upon themselves to rid the country of this enemy. When laws and public opinion don’t go their way, extremists believe hate crimes and violence are the answer, and our freedom to live in equality is brutally violated. LGBT hate crimes are on the rise.

We can see why hate crimes are increasing - after years of fighting a losing battle and the passage of many new LGBT equality laws at the federal and state levels, those who disagree have little political clout and are left with few avenues to try to change things.

Right now, they have put most of their eggs in the “freedom of religion” basket, with little success, and those who want faster and more decisive action head out on a hate crusade to conquer the enemy. Violence is often their weapon.

On a very different level, violence by one person against another in a domestic or intimate relationship is equally brutal, and snatches away the right of a partner or spouse to live a safe and secure life. According to some estimates, domestic violence occurs more often in the LGBT community than it does among the straight population. But it is rarely reported to police because of fear of public scrutiny of same sex relationships at a time when the victim is most vulnerable, and because of lack of protective laws in many states. In spite of advances made toward LGBT equality in recent years, the community has not rallied to help contain and reduce the incidence of violence within it.

Hate crimes and domestic abuse are the face of terrorism. The issue in both is a raging desire for control by a few extremists over the most vulnerable members of our society. Let’s take a look at what is going on in the U.S.: Hate Crimes The Southern Poverty Law Center has tracked and studied hate and extremism of all kinds for many years. It notes that overall, the number of hate groups has grown by 14% over a year ago. It has identified at least 48 specific Anti-LGBT hate groups in the U.S. in

32 THESTANDARDPS.COM

2015, up from 27 in 2011, a huge jump in numbers in just 4 years.

A majority of the LGBT hate groups are concentrated in the eastern half of the country. In the west, 5 are headquartered in California, 5 in Colorado, and 2 are in Arizona.

The reality is that more and more members of the LGBT community are affected by the hateful actions of others. It is very clear that this group is more targeted for hate crimes and violence than any other minority in the U.S. Transgender people, especially, face high levels of physical and sexual violence every day. More than one in four has faced assault, and trans women, the most targeted group in the U.S., suffered 23 murders in 2015, almost double the known number for 2014. It is known that at least half of these women were targets of their partners or family members, and apparently not victims of random anti-trans hate crimes.

Surprisingly, FBI statistics show some of the gay-friendlyest states such as California, Massachusetts and New York rank in the top ten with the highest rates of LGBT hate crimes. And other unexpected states, such as Alaska, Mississippi, Rhode Island and Wyoming report no anti-gay hate crimes in the same period of time.

What is going on out there?

It is likely that the LGBT-friendly states have a larger visible community, thus providing a larger number of convenient targets for hate-mongers. Individuals there are more likely to report incidents of hate and violence to the police, and the authorities are more likely to

take them seriously, investigate, and report the incidents to the FBI. In many states with zero or very low reports of hate crimes, the LGBT community is often more secretive, not as accessible to hate-criminals, and will likely choose not to report incidents because authorities are not perceived as sympathetic or helpful.

Unfortunately, the FBI reports are based on voluntary reporting of incidents by local authorities, and represent only a small fraction of the hate crimes actually occurring each year. It is estimated there are over 250,000 incidents annually, and most of these are never reported to local law enforcement agencies. Even if they are, these authorities may not classify the incidents as hate crimes, or often fail to report them to the FBI. Domestic or Intimate Partner Abuse LGBT domestic or intimate partner abuse is much more difficult to track and study than the more public occurrences of hate crime.

Recent surveys have found that 44% of lesbian women, 61% of bisexual women, 26% of gay men, and 37% of bisexual men experience violence at some point in their lives. Only 25% of these

incidents are likely to be reported to authorities. Abusers seek absolute control of another person, and may use a wide variety of methods, but physical violence is often the weapon of choice.

Assistance in the form of safe shelters, law enforcement and community support is often not accessible, especially to gay and bisexual men and the transgendered, because the focus of services has, for generations, been heterosexual women.

In the LGBT community, terrorists are not always “them”.

Sometimes they are “us”, and we must root them out with education, better legal protections and community support for every vulnerable person. Terrorism calls for our zealous determination to end extremism and violence on all levels in the U.S. 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

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34 THESTANDARDPS.COM

FITNESS

DO YOU VALUE YOUR LIFE?

BY DENNIS MASON, B.F.A., C.P.T.

This past weekend I got into an interesting exchange of thoughts on Facebook. The question I put out was this: “What value do people who let themselves get out of shape place on their lives?” It would seem to me that priority number one would be a person’s own health and fitness, because without that nothing else really matters. The comments I received ranged from pointing out how keeping fit expands a person’s quality of life, to the fear of having little or no money outweighing the fear of poor health and even death. What are your thoughts? Email me at the email below. I’d like to hear from you.

No one likes to hear about the ailments that could settle into their body as time goes by. It’s scary. But, that’s what we’ve been led to believe. It’s as though our logical mind has been brainwashed into thinking in a manner contrary to nature. The truth is that our bodies were meant to move around not sit around. The active use of our body is one of the ways in which it stays in good running order.

Over the years, our society has changed and evolved. Essentially, a lot of us have forgotten or never learned how important our body really is to us and how we must keep vigil over the activity or the lack of activity that can do us harm. We have become a people so very wrapped up in our jobs to make the money to spend on things we don’t need, in an effort to make a “success” of ourselves, while failing miserably at our most important job; that of maintaining the good health and well-being of our very lives.

With the advances in technology, science and medicine, we have become increasingly disconnected from the basics of how to stay healthy, fit and generally in good shape. We are bombarded daily on television, the internet, and on billboards with information on methods to change the way we look and feel without having to change the way we live our lives. Fast food joints tempt us around every corner. As a civilization that is “busier” than any other in history, we don’t make room for regular physical exercise. On top of all of that, we live in a pill and drug culture that caters to our wants and desires to mask the symptoms of many problems instead of eliminating the causes. At the same time we continue to do the very things that create the symptoms we seek to eliminate. Have you noticed that there are more and more angry, unhappy and frustrated people around today than ever before? Somehow, that seems like a flashing red-malfunction light to me.

Many of the ailments we experience as we age are a direct

result of poor nutrition and insufficient physical exercise. In short, we do it to ourselves. These ailments include obesity, lack of strength and endurance, fatigue, low libido and depression. Generally speaking, it’s not so much that these ailments come along as we age, as much as it is because of our nutritional abuse, physical inactivity and other unhealthy habits. The solution for the most part is to give your body what it needs to help itself naturally work properly. The idea is to fully understand the concept of a fitness lifestyle and how to be fit for life. It’s not something we turn on and off, like a light bulb. It’s not taking synthetic drugs to grow muscle mass or lose body fat. It is a lifelong way of life (like brushing your teeth) that in turn helps support your well-being. Selecting physical activities that keep the body toned and burn body fat as well as following a healthy and wise eating plan (including natural herbs and food supplements) will help support your body and improve the odds of keeping it functioning at optimum efficiency levels well into older age. Now, that is REAL VALUE! Got questions or need help? Contact me from the information below.Dennis is a certified Personal Trainer and Master Fitness Coach with over 40 years’ experience, NPC bodybuilding competitor, charity cyclist, motivational speaker, author, Stained Glass Artist, and an Ordained Minister with The Universal Life Church. Body Sculpting - Nutritional Guidance Aquatics & Post Rehab Conditioning Web: www.dennismasonfitness. com Email: dennis@dennismasonfitness.com Phone: 760-219-5877 Please join Dennis on his internet radio program, FITNESS & MORE, on demand at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/FitnessAndMore Also on Facebook and Twitter as fitnessradio.

MAY 2016 35

36 THESTANDARDPS.COM

WELLNESS

RELAX & ENGAGE

4 WAYS TO LEARN ON VACATION With busy schedules and jam-packed to-do lists, people often view vacations as a time to simply lounge by the beach and soak up the sun. And while that may sound like paradise, when was the last time you truly pursued a passion, goal or curiosity?

Vacation is a great time to take your goals and passions off the back burner. A learning vacation can help you reclaim old interests and discover places you never knew existed. One of the best learning vacation destinations that comes to mind is the Chautauqua Institution but there are many other learning venues. These are places to both relax and grow your mind. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends or all on your own, here are some of the best ways to learn on vacation: Find a destination focused on education Instead of booking a flight to your ordinary vacation spot, why not try somewhere new? Take an adventure to a destination known for learning. The Chautauqua Institution is known for its life-long and vacation learning program. This educational center founded in 1874 on Chautauqua Lake features 750 acres of historic buildings, vacation homes and cottages, the grand Athenaeum Hotel and a nineweek summer schedule filled with learning opportunities for all ages.

Nearby, the City of Jamestown is home to the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History, the Robert H. Jackson Center for Justice and the Lucille Ball - Desi Arnaz Center for Comedy.

Go somewhere to learn a new activity Is there a sport, activity or hobby you’ve always wanted to try?

If you’re interested in birds or nature, choose to vacation in a place with recreational trails and nature gardens. If you’ve always wanted to give skiing or snowboarding a shot, find a resort with learning academies focused on winter sports as well. From sailing and kayaking to fly-fishing and stand up paddling, the possibilities are endless for what you can learn.

Be adventurous with food and drink Make a point to try a dish you’ve never tasted at least once per day on your vacation. Challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone and taste the local cuisine. Wherever you’re staying, ask for recommendations on which restaurants to check out. You could even poll some locals to find the best places to go for coffee, and any

other must-visit places. Wine enthusiasts can research local wineries to schedule tours and tastings to discover a new favorite and learn how it’s made.

Make travel friends Traveling gives you the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Strike up a conversation with the couple or family next to you at lunch and you could end up making some life-long friendships.

Staying in a locally owned hotel or bed and breakfast can also be easy ways to interact with new people on a daily basis. Look for dining and sightseeing partners; you never know whom you’ll meet.

Put a fresh spin on your vacation planning this year. Design a learning vacation, enjoy new experiences and return home feeling revived and refreshed.

MAY 2016 37

LIFE’S A DRAG

A DAY IN THE LIFE

BY PINKIE MERINGUE SHIMMER

Well welcome to May 2016 all of you Fabulous, Wonderful, Amazing people out there. So much is going on all over the place.

Major event alert for me… Pinkie and Mr. Shimmer will be making a trip across the country in a big jet plane. Now I know that sounds fabulous, but you have not heard of our destination yet. We are heading to south Alabama, better known in those parts of the woods as LA, Lower Alabama. We are heading there to see my family, yes Pinkie is a southern girl or better yet as we are called there, GRITS (Girls Raised in the South). My oldest niece is graduating from high school. Now, how in the hell did that happen, I know that I couldn’t possibly be that old. But she is beautiful young woman following in my footsteps. (No, she’s not going into Drag). She will be attending the same junior college that I did and then she will continue on to The University of Alabama. So wish us well as we are in the south. All that humidity will not be good for my wigs…LOL This morning I was thinking about Show Day for a drag queen.

Since I have been so busy lately my drag room at home looks like a war zone. So what is Show Day like for us in the drag world? You know we wake up at our leisure; a handsome man will then bring us coffee in bed. Then we work our way out to the Lanai to ready the society page to see how many times we are mentioned. We then head to the spa for pampering while our manager is packing our bags for the show. Next we rest until our makeup person arrives to put on our face. And finally, a cocktail by the pool until the limo arrives to drive us to our show venue. WRONG!!!! LOL Here is the real day. Wake up at 6 in the morning. Feed

the dogs, walk the dogs give treats to the dogs while Mr. Shimmer throws the ball for our dog Hank. Then have a little something to eat.

Head to my Pinkie/Sewing/Office room and get my list of songs.

Try and remember to put the right songs on the USB stick and try to remember to put that stick in the purse to actually take to the club.

Then I get the list of numbers that I am doing. I start to dig around the floor to find the drag suitcase that is home to all these wonderful things we need to become the drag superstars that you see on stage. The list starts with 2 or 3 pair of tights, padding for butts and thighs, gloves, more shoes than we will use because at this moment we are not sure which ones we will like tonight... lol. Jewels stored in a Tupperware container, dog toys for boobs, bra, waist shapers- on and on and on. Believe me that suitcase would never make it through security at the airport. Next it is time to open the closet to the vast array of outfits and it takes a strong woman to push the outfits aside so that you can find the one you are looking for. If not in the closet it is somewhere on the floor from being thrown in the room from the previous show…. LOL. Then the suitcase, wigs, outfits, headdresses, etc.…all get put in the van to be taken to the venue.

And lastly, back home to shave and shower and put on that face that you all love and adore. Well there you have it, thank you for taking a peek into the day in the life of a drag queen on show day!

LOVE AND LIGHT pinkiemeringue@yahoo.com

MAY 2016 39

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40STHESTANDARDPS.COM EAFOOD

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MAY 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

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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

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CHILL BAR 217 E. Arenas Road PS 760.327.1079 STREETBAR 224 E. Arenas Road PS 760.320.1266 www.psstreetbar.com THE TOOL SHED 600 E. Sunny Dunes Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.3299 www.toolshed-ps.com SPURLINE VIDEO LOUNGE 200 Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760.778.4326 www.spurline.com

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COMING UP NEXT MONTH TRANSCENDENCE

THE NEW FACES OF THE TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY

MAY 2016 43

al c lo

EVENTS CALENDAR these artists offer diverse perspectives on Native American identity as well as on critical issues around photography as a documentary medium, i.e., the extent to which it is fact, fiction, or some combination of both. www.psmuseum.org.

MAY 13 - 15 SUMMER TRAMP THE SAGUARO HOTEL PALM SPRINGS SUMMERTRAMP Palm Springs A Magical Brigadoon Of Decadence And Delight Burning Brightly From The Sunny Shores Of The Saguaro Palm Springs: 2 Days & 2 Nights Of Drinking, Dancing & Romancing Trampy Room Rates: www.thesaguaro.com summertramp Booking Code: “TRAMP” Festival Pre-Sale & Weekend Passes: www.SummerTramp.com

MAY 14 EAST VALLEY VOICES OUT LOUD. MCCALLUM THEATRE PALM DESERT The McCallum Theatre will present East Valley Voices OUT LOUD, a dynamic evening showcasing the vibrant talents of singers, rappers, poets, storytellers, musicians, actors, playwrights and visual artists from the East Valley. Tickets at www.mccallumtheatre.com or by calling the McCallum Theatre Box Office at (760) 340-2787.

THROUGH MAY 29 CHANGING THE TONE: CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN INDIAN PHOTOGRAPHERS PS ART MUSEUM In images that reflect on portraiture, cultural heritage, and their relationship to the land,

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MAY 11 AN EVENING OF COMEDY. OSCAR’S CAFÉ & BAR PALM SPRINGS Shann Carr, Max Mitchell and The Moxie Project presents directly from the recent season of Last Comic Standing comedian Shelagh Ratner. Check out Shelagh’s new web series Hillary Unplugged from hotels on the campaign trail. SO FUNNY www.hillaryunpluggedseries. com. Be prepared to laugh like you never laughed before. Advance tickets $15 on sale now at www.shanncarr.com Or if you are looking for dinner and a show call for reservations 760-325-1188 DBA EVENTS MAY 16 6PM Purple Palm Restaurant at Colony Palms 572 N. Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs JUN 6 6PM Son Cabinetry Palm Springs 611 S Palm Canon Dr Palm Springs www.desertbusinessassociation.org

ONGOING >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> CHILL BAR PALM SPRINGS A warm and fabulous twenty first century modern venue located on Arenas, suited with multi faceted rooms for any celebration.

The gorgeous island bar is surrounded by hi-definition video entertainment and a comfortable designer lounge. Chill on the patio enjoying music and refreshing beverages with friends after a game of pool, or come by and say hello to our friendly staff. Open for business seven days a week. Get out of the heat, and come join us! Happy Hour (From Open to 7pm) and Late Happy Hour (From Midnight to Last Call) $4 Well Drinks, $2.75 Bud Light & $1.50 Chill Lager. www.chillbarpalmsprings.com

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

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

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

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EVENTS CALENDAR

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 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

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

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EVENTS CALENDAR

JUN 1 - 30

MAY 11 - 15

AQUA GIRL. MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA Aqua Girl, started in 1999, is a fiveday party in Miami Beach for women who love other women. As the largest charity women’s week in the country, your participation in Aqua Girl® contributes to a very good cause. In fact, 100% of the proceeds from Aqua Girl® benefit the Aqua Foundation for Women, a not-forprofit foundation that serves the lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community in Southern Florida. www.aquagirl.org

MAY 13 - 15

OUTLANTACON. ATLANTA, GEORGIA Outlantacon is an Atlanta-based event for the Queer Geek audience! You’ll find all the usual convention fare here - discussion panels, gaming, costuming, special events, etc. - the difference is that it all has a queer ‘bent’ to it. Here you can enjoy all the convention trappings in an atmosphere where you’re free to be yourself! www.outlantacon.org

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MAY 21 - 22

LONG BEACH PRIDE - LONG BEACH. CALIFORNIA Over the past several years, the Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Celebration has become one of the premiere Pride events nationwide, now attracting over 80,000 participants over two days. The Festival Celebration includes five large dance areas including a main stage that has featured musical artists such as Grammy Award Winner Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Rowland, Dev, Fantasia, Queen Latifah, Maya, India Arie, and Village People. www.longbeachpride.com

MAY 31 - JUN 5

BUFFALO PRIDE. BUFFALO, NEW YORK Buffalo & WNY Pride Week is back and ready to take over the region with a week’s worth of celebration, advocacy and community engagement! No other event in WNY touches such a varied and large demographic cross-section of residents and visitors, while bringing neighbors together to celebrate pride in our community. www.buffalopridefestival.com

NATIONAL QUEER ARTS FESTIVAL. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Founded in 1993, Qcc is a multiracial community-building organization that fosters the artistic, economic and cultural development of San Francisco’s LGBT community. We implement our mission by operating programs that commission and present Queer artists, that promote the development of culturally diverse Queer arts organizations and that document significant Queer arts events taking place in San Francisco. www.qcc2.org

JUN 3 - 12

BOSTON PRIDE WEEK. BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS Celebrating its 46th year, Boston Pride’s focus is to achieve inclusivity, equality, respect, and awareness in Greater Boston and beyond.

Pride fosters diversity, unity, visibility, and dignity, by building and strengthening community connections through education, communication, and advocacy. www.bostonpride.org

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EVENTS CALENDAR

MAY 26 - MAY 29 MAY 1 - 15

MAY 12 - 16

MAY 2 - 15

MAY 16 - 29

MASPALOMAS PRIDE MASPALOMAS GRAND CANARY ISLAND, SPAIN For those who have never experienced the Pride of Maspalomas, a surprise awaits you! The days are filled with various events: festivals, exhibitions, parades, tours, shows, and concerts, along with your favorite restaurants and bars in and around the Yumbo Centre joining in the fun! So make yourself look fabulous and join in the Pride celebrations with us, together with dancers, singers, and drag queens! Are you ready for the craziest and most fun Pride festival in the World? www.maspalomaspride.es

INTERNATIONAL DUBLIN GAY THEATRE FESTIVAL DUBLIN, IRELAND The Dublin Gay Theatre Festival is an annual event, celebrating contribution of gay people to theatre, past and present.

The Festival was founded in 2004 to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Oscar Wilde, in his native city. With an emphasis on new or recent international and Irish works with a broadly gay theme or relevance, the Festival has grown to become the largest event of its type in the world. www.gaytheatre.ie

AMSTERDAM FETISH PRIDE. AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND A weekend that aims to bring people from the community together, to simply have a good time and organized by people from that same community. Amsterdam is proud to be a diverse and gay friendly city and it is time we celebrated that with a Fetish Pride.

Join us, meet old friends and make some new ones. Explore the city, enjoy the broad range of culture, and shop till you drop, sample the food and get a taste of the buzzing nightlife! www.amsterdamfetishpride.com

PUERTO VALLARTA GAY PRIDE. PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO For the fourth consecutive year, Puerto Vallarta will welcome the largest LGBT Pride event in the region: Vallarta Pride.

Associations, companies and the entire LGBT community have joined together again to organize this event that celebrates the lifestyle diversity of our city in a 12-day festival that will offer arts and culture events, concerts, entertainment, films, fun, lots of partying and our fabulous Pride Parade. www.vallartapride.com

OLAGIRLS, THE LESBIAN MEDITERRANEAN FESTIVAL CATALUĂ‘A, SPAIN A different weekend for lesbians in three locations, where the sun shines and food and wine are amazing. Gastronomy, wines, outdoor & indoor activities, beach & pool party, night parties with main guest RUBY ROSE. Packs include EVERYTHING: gastronomy experience, wine tastings, meals, drinks, activities, concerts & two open bars. www.olagirls.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

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PHOTO REWIND THE CENTER OCOTILLO CLUB EVENT PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND NCLR EVENT PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE STANDARD STAFF

MAY 2016 49

PHOTO REWIND WHITE PARTY 2016 PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND WHITE PARTY 2016 PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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Harvey

MILK

Diversity Breakfast

Coachella Valley

FRIDAY, MAY 20, 2016 | 9:30AM - 11AM NEW LOCATION! PS CONVENTION CENTER Honoring

Keynote Speaker

Senator Mark Leno

Dolores Huerta

with the Harvey B. Milk Leadership Award

Acclaimed Civil Rights Activist

SILVER

Youth Speaker

Enrique Campos

Harvey B. Milk Outstanding Youth

BRONZE

Boyd & Lisette Haigler David Hood & George Sellers

Greg D. Barton CPA & Associates, Inc.

Geoff Kors & James Williamson

FOUNDING MEMBERS

MEDIA SPONSORS

TABLE SPONSORS

Corey Borey and Shan Carr, Bloom in the Desert Ministries UCC, Borrego Community Health Foundation, Contempo Lending, Desert Business Association, Desert Stonewall Democrats, Emerald Kingdom, Georgie’s Alibi / Azul, McCallum Theatre, ONE PS, Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, Safe Schools, Unitarian Universalist Church of the Desert

STUDENT TABLE SPONSORS

Grace Helen Spearman Foundation, Gelson’s, Tom Stansbury & Larry Fechter, Desert Business Association, The LGBT Center of the Desert, Steven Henke, Desert Gay Tourism Guild, Toucans Tiki Lounge,Sarah Millet, Reaction Marketing STUDENT TICKET DONORS The Community Foundation, Hunters

Visit bit.ly/MILKPS or HarveyMilk.us for more information and tickets

MAY 2016 53

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