The Standard Magazine

APRIL, 2017 VOLUME 5 ISSUE 4 THESTANDARDPS.COM

AIDS Assistance Program/Food Samaritans THE LEGACY CONTINUES

MARTHA & THE VANDELLAS / BRING A HEATWAVE TO EUTS

CONTENTS VOLUME 5, ISSUE 4

theStandardPS.com twitter.com/theStandardPS ON THE COVER GLORIA GREENE, JEANNETTE ROCKEFELLER & JOANNA JAKWAY

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Volume 5 Issue 4

COACHELLA PSP FOCUS 28-29

COVER AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM / FOOD SAMARITANS | THE LEGACY CONTINUES FEATURE WHITE PARTY 2017 SPF SUN, PARTIES & FUN FEATURE DANN FOLEY WHERE CAN I GET IT? MUSIC GLAM ROCK BAND BOYS’ ENTRANCE

NEW ORDER

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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 Casey Arasa, Chris Astrala, Bob Bogard, Jeff Dorta, Dann Foley, Chris Heritage, Jill Langham, James Murphy, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Dr. Stephen Scoggins & Adam Sinicki 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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AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOOD SAMARITANS THE LEGACY CONTINUES

JEANNETTE ROCKEFELLER, GLORIA GREENE AND JOANNA JAKWAY

26 years ago, Jeannette Rockefeller, Gloria Greene and Joanna Jakway had a vision; a vision of a community where people suffering the ravages of HIV/AIDS would never go hungry, and from this selfless objective created an organization that speaks to the needs of those with limited income who cannot afford proper nutrition for themselves and their families.

And so the AIDS Assistance Program was born, a labor of love from this dedicated trio, providing food vouchers for those in need living with HIV/AIDS. All three humanitarians—now unfortunately deceased—brought with them different qualities and experiences.

Gloria Greene was the owner of Gloria’s, a Palm Springs restaurant popular among those in the desert’s gay community.

Already struck by the suffering associated with HIV/AIDS, Gloria was known to feed those infected with HIV from the back door of her restaurant. She operated from the belief that even though medicines may help you live longer, if you don’t have proper nutrition and healthy food, your quality of life will suffer.

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Jeannette Rockefeller was a woman who never knew what it was like to go hungry, but her empathy for those who did was legendary.

In addition to being one of the sparks igniting AAP, she was also a tireless volunteer to that organization as well as others. Jeanette was the widow of Winthrop Rockefeller, former governor of Arkansas and grandson of Standard Oil mogul John D. Rockefeller Sr. Prior to marrying into one of the richest families in the world; she was Jeannette Edris, hotel and theater heiress. Despite her old money upbringing, Jeanette was a defender of the downtrodden and a champion of social causes.

The third component to this spirited trio, Joanna Jakway, was always involved in some kind of community service or cause. In the early 1960s she worked with the Head Start program and was also one of the co-founders of the League of Women Voters in Palm Springs.

She then served on the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission for several terms, including one term as that organization’s chairperson.

Decades later, Joanna was so moved by the anguish of those affected by the deadly disease that she decided to get involved with AIDS work. It was at that time that Joanna met Gloria and Jeannette, and the three became fast friends bound by a common cause that quickly

Over the years, as the AIDS epidemic spread far beyond the gay community, to include men, women and children who are either directly or indirectly affected by HIV/AIDS.

grew into AAP. Joanna did not have a lot of money to contribute, but she had time, experience, dedication and emotion. There were no paid employees at the time and she became the office ‘staff.’ One of her greatest rewards was dealing with the ‘cold calls’—people who were calling because it was [at that time] the only listing in the phone book under ‘AIDS,’ usually people who were scared to death and had no idea where to turn.

Today, AIDS Assistance Program / Food Samaritans has expanded their services and is a brightly-hued collage of caring individuals from all walks of life who blend their energy and talents to further the mission of AAP/Food Samaritans. The majority of the organization’s day-to-day operations are realized through the hard work of volunteers and organization Executive Director, Mark Anton.

One client likens AAP to a family and admits that she “wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them [AAP].”

Perhaps Gloria stated AAP’s purpose best: “It’s such a simple idea: Help feed people.”

Portions of this article provided by The Bottomline May 2010

AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS EXPANDS REACH AND ADDS NEW CLIENTS

BY BOB BOGARD AAP was founded more than 25 years ago with the goal of helping the most at-risk members of our community – people who are low-income and compromised by health issues – by providing nutritional support to these men, women and children living with HIV/ AIDS. Initiated by a small group of concerned citizens led by the late Gloria Greene and Jeannette Rockefeller, AAP has continued to provide nutritional support to members of the community that need help the most. The AAP board of directors recently realized that there is a real need to help others in the greater Palm Springs community who are suffering with additional serious illnesses such as cancer, MS, heart or liver disease, among others. With this in mind, they changed the organization name to “AAP – Food Samaritans” and expanded services to add new clients to AAP’s monthly nutritional support client list.

These new clients go through the same qualification process, which includes income and residency verification and random testing for illegal drug use. It is important to note that many AAP clients rarely, if ever, make it off of the client list. AAP – Food Samaritans makes sure that these clients continue to receive nutritional support and live with the dignity that they deserve. Sadly, many die alone with AAP as one of their few remaining resources.

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Each month, the total number of AAP clients varies. During the summer months, some clients temporarily move away to avoid the heat, but their food vouchers resume when they return. It is the same with clients who are hospitalized due to their chronic illness. AAP - Food Samaritans funds this nutritional support program through private donations and fundraising events, including the upcoming Evening Under the Stars on May 6.

AAP- Food Samaritans of Palm Springs remains dedicated to providing nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. For more information, please call 760-325-8481 or visit aidsassistance.org.

MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS HEADLINES EVENING UNDER THE STARS MARTHA REEVES

Martha Reeves & the Vandellas will be the headline entertainment for the 24th annual Evening Under the Stars gala, to be held on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs.

The evening’s festivities will begin with a ‘quintessentially Palm Springs’ sunset cocktail hour on the grounds of the O’Donnell Golf Club against a backdrop of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains, widely regarded as one of the most festive cocktail receptions of the season. A short awards program will recognize a few inspirational honorees, followed by a delicious dinner, and a performance by Martha & the Vandellas.

After their show, dancing will continue with DJ Jerry Bonham on the main stage followed by an amazing fireworks display.

Martha Reeves & the Vandellas are an iconic Motown group that had, in their heyday, more than 26 hits and were a constant presence on the music charts, as well as on television and in top music venues across the US and abroad. Ten of their songs reached the top ten of

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the Billboard R&B singles chart, and two were R&B number one hits.

Six of their songs were Top Ten Pop Hits on the Billboard Hot 100.

They are most known for their major hits “Heat Wave,” “Dancing In The Street,” “Jimmy Mack,” and “Nowhere To Run.” Jerry Bonham’s love of music and career as a DJ began in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1976. His path has led him to spin disco hits at the Ice Palace in New York City and on Fire Island, then to San Francisco in 1989 where he played at Dreamland, Colossus (originally in the legendary Trocadero location) and later 1015 Folsom, Pleasuredome, and Spundae. He currently resides in Denver, and continues to delight fans at ‘Remember the Party’ events in San Francisco, Flagging in the Park at the AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park, and other special events such as Evening Under the Stars.

NEED FOOD? $3 HAPPY HOUR DRINKS $5 BAR BITES 11am-7pm, daily

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MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS

Tickets for the benefit, priced at $395 and $500 per person, are available for purchase and individual VIP seats and sponsorships are also available. To attend or for more information, call 760-325-8481 or visit aidsassistance.org.

IF YOU GO Evening Under the Stars May 6 / 6:00 pm O’Donnell Golf Club Tickets: Call 760-325-8481 or visit aidsassistance.org.

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EVENING UNDER THE STARS HONOREES provided by a broad base of generous donors. Philanthropy and volunteerism continue to play a major role in Eisenhower’s ability to fulfill its mission: “To serve the changing health care needs of our region by providing excellence in patient care with supportive education and research.”

GREGG SELLECK GLORIA GREENE INSPIRATION AWARD

EISENHOWER MEDICAL CENTER CORPORATE ANGEL AWARD As the valley’s only not-for-profit hospital, Eisenhower Medical Center has provided high quality, compassionate care for more than 40 years through a full range of state-of-the-art diagnostic, treatment, and emergency facilities. Eisenhower is an accredited teaching hospital, with a School of Graduate Medical Education training new physicians in the specialties of family medicine and internal medicine.

Eisenhower Medical Center has locations across the Coachella Valley for convenient, quality health care. The main campus and hospital is located on 130 acres in Rancho Mirage. Eisenhower Medical Center is a dynamic, progressive health care complex comprised of a 463-bed hospital, the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences at Eisenhower, and the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center at Eisenhower in addition to its outpatient facilities in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, and La Quinta. The Betty Ford Center is also located on the Eisenhower campus. Eisenhower not only offers the highest quality health care for residents and visitors, but also additionally provides a broad range of educational programs for the public and for health care professionals.

One of the hallmarks of Eisenhower Medical Center’s reputation as a premier health care facility is the significant financial support

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Gregg Selleck grew up in Los Angeles, and at the age of 22 moved to Palm Springs and started his construction company. Jeannette Rockefeller, the founding president of AAP – Food Samaritans and a legendary Coachella Valley philanthropist, introduced Gregg to community service. At first Gregg helped the organization in small ways, including building the stage for the very first Evening Under the Stars – which took place in then Board President Blair Alexander’s back yard – in 1993. From those humble beginnings, he quickly went on to become a board member and has been a tireless volunteer ever since. His dedication to AAP – Food Samaritans became a passion, and in the months preceding Evening Under the Stars, Gregg’s focus would shift from working on his client’s homes to collecting items for the auction. Gregg remained active on the board for many years and in 2008 he was honored by Greater Palm Springs Pride as their ‘Man of the Year.’

BOB POLLOCK (POSTHUMOUSLY) JOANNA JAKWAY COMMUNITY HERO AWARD Robert Mason “Bob” Pollock was a cheerful, kind, witty man and a major philanthropist who donated to many Coachella Valley nonprofits including AAP- Food Samaritans, ACT for MS, and the College of the Desert. Bob was a fervent and long-time supporter of AAP until his death in July 2016 at the age of 99. He was extremely influential in Hollywood for his many contributions, but is perhaps best known for his work as a screenwriter for the television show

“Dynasty.” Bob shared his life with his longtime wife Eileen, better known as “Mike,” a nickname she earned from Bob because they met over radio microphones. They were a true love story. They met in New York while working on “My True Story,” a radio drama. The couple then worked together on the television shows “Dynasty” and “The Colbys,” and were awarded a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars in 1997. Mike died in December of 2012; just three weeks after she and Bob celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. One of the last things he said was, ‘I’m almost 100 years old. I’ve lived an amazing life. I miss my wife and I just want to be in peace.’” AAP – Food Samaritans will forever honor this great man and philanthropist.

DR. TIMOTHY JOCHEN AND LEE ERWIN JEANNETTE ROCKEFELLER HUMANITARIAN AWARD Dr. Timothy Jochen and Lee Erwin are great examples of giving back to the community they love. They are major contributors to more than 40 non-profit organizations in the Coachella Valley including AAP – Food Samaritans, which they have supported for more than thirteen years. Other charitable organizations they support include American Cancer Society, Big Brothers & Big Sisters of the Desert, Boys and Girls Clubs of Coachella Valley, Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine, Desert AIDS Project, Desert Cancer Foundation, Gilda’s Club Desert Cities, Guide Dogs of Desert, Jewish Family Service of the Desert, Palm Springs Art Museum, Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Palm Springs Women in Film & TV, Shelter from the Storm, The Living Desert, Well in the Desert, and many more. Dr. Jochen and Lee Erwin were recently honored as business visionaries and philanthropists with the 411th star on Palm Canyon Drive.

Dr. Jochen, a board certified dermatologist, founded Contour

Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center (now the largest dermatology practice in the Valley with offices in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs). Dr. Jochen serves on the Board of Trustees at Palm Valley School and is an Associate Professor at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He has been named “Teacher of the Year” several times and has been voted a Top Doctor by his peers in 2014, 2015 and 2016.

Lee Erwin is the Executive Director of Contour Dermatology.

A graduate of the University of Florida with a BS in Computer Engineering, Lee was a computer consultant before joining Contour Dermatology. He was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of Jewish Family Service of the Desert. Dr. Jochen and Lee Erwin have lived in the Coachella Valley since 2001 and have a twelveyear-old daughter, Ashley, who attends Palm Valley School.

LAURIE WEITZ HERB LAZENBY COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD Laurie Weitz has been part of the creative side of the arts and entertainment industry for many years. She and husband Larry have been together for more than 20 years and worked together as executive recruiters for 18 years under their corporation, Weitz and Associates. They enjoyed much success turning less-successful companies into robust and profitable ones under their leadership and business expertise. They began spending time in the Coachella Valley in 2009 and fell in love with the people and lifestyle the city of Palm Springs offers.

Laurie is extremely involved in many Coachella Valley organizations.

She has raised awareness and funds for AAP - Food Samaritans, Palm Springs Art Museum, Desert Cancer Foundation, Desert AIDS Project, the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and many others. She serves as a board member for Modernism Week and has been a longtime patron of the arts. She recently curated several cutting edge gallery shows, has produced a variety of trunk shows, and has donated her handcrafted jewelry to be used for auctions. As a humanitarian and philanthropist, Laurie is fully committed to her vision that all Valley communities will begin to blend together to be a more integrated culture.

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FEATURE JEFFREY SANKER DESIGNS WHITE PARTY PALM SPRINGS 2017 WITH MAXIMUM EXPOSURE SPF: SUN, PARTIES AND FUN!

BY JASON KELLY Sun Worshippers rejoice! White Party Palm Springs 2017 happens the weekend of May 5-8, right at the start of peak tanning season in that magical California desert oasis. Producer Jeffrey Sanker is designing this year’s festivities to give you maximum exposure to the most fun under the desert sun, along with his legendary electrifying evening events.

This year, Sanker is amping up White Party’s world famous pool parties at the Renaissance Hotel like never before. He’ll bring up the heat with new day-club style “Splash” parties all day long, on all three days: Friday, Saturday and Sunday. You won’t find a bigger mix of Men, Music and Muscle anywhere on Earth!

The action doesn’t stop after the sunsets. Sanker’s explosive White Party evening events have become the standard by which all other gay dance festivals are judged. On Friday night, he joins with Eliad Cohen to bring the carnal pleasures of PAPA back to the desert. On Saturday evening, Sanker fires up his spotlights for the massive WHITE PARTY main event at Palm Springs Convention Center, a full-scale Military Assault. The party keeps pumping afterhours with the triumphant return of CLIMAX after hours.

Sunday brings non-stop fun starting at the Renaissance Pool, followed by the magnificent SUNDAY T-DANCE T-Dance (with its signature fireworks finale) and the always provocative CLOSING PARTY. We had a chance to sit down with Sanker to find out more about the man behind all the magic and let him fill us in on what he’s planning: Jason Kelly: Where do you draw your inspiration for White Party?

Jeffrey Sanker: Pop culture, what is current, relevant. I try to always keep my finger on the pulse of what’s hot, and what is up and coming and travel the world for more ideas every year!

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JK: What makes White Party different than all the other circuit events across the globe?

JS: I think the circuit world has evolved into such a phenomenon, that there is literally something for everyone. There are some amazing groups out there doing some amazing things, and I am thrilled in the direction and passion that goes into every production! What I think what sets White Party apart from some of the other groups is that I have always held on to my initial mission: one that is to not only throw a great party, but to also make it all inclusive. I want our guests to feel free to be themselves, and for them to explore a side of themselves that they may never have had the opportunity to do before. We live in a climate that is ever changing, but I know that many of our guests come from places where being gay is still not accepted. I want them to understand that I accept them, we accept them, and it is ok to be yourself and let loose.

Friendships and bonds are formed that last a lifetime, memories are made, and stars are born, and I pride myself on surprising guests year after year with new and innovative ways of doing this.

JK: Are there any major changes to White Party this year?

I hear you are bringing back the main pool party, but in a really big way. Give us the scoop!

JS: One of the main changes is bringing all of our pool parties back to the hotel this year. I have redesigned the staging to make

it more cohesive, and rebranded the area as a “day club” (think cabanas, day beds, and revelry). I have also brought our DJs, dancers, and performers closer to the party really making it all encompassing sensory overload coming at you at all sides. Our amazing sponsor, ADDICTED swimwear will be doing an underwear fashion show hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race Alum Shangela!

The Saturday night White Party has a Military Party theme with an internationally known surprise performer. The entrance will be back at its original spot on the South lawn (of the Palm Springs Convention Center) closest to the hotel. White Carpet arrivals will be hosted by none other than Julie Goldman and Brandy Howard from Bravo’s hit show, THE PEOPLE’S COUCH! JK: What’s in store for White Party veterans?

JS: Many of our parties will have a nostalgic feel. For example, Belinda Carlisle is our headlining T Dance performer.

Belinda sent us this special message about her performance: “I’m incredibly excited to be performing at the White Party for the first time. I’ve been wanting to perform at this event for years, since it looks like too much fun and I’ve seen all the legendary artists that have come before me. Plus, as a mom of a gay son, who had a blast at the White Party last year and who will be attending with me this year, I’m so proud to be part of such a great iconic event.”

JS: Tens of thousands. I look up in the sky when the fireworks are going off, and I am just in awe, and the fact that it is perfectly choreographed to music, really makes it a spectacle to behold…

MGM Studios used to promote “we have more stars than there are in the heavens,” I sometimes feel that way about the fireworks!

JK: What advice would you give to people who are looking for a place to stay in Palm Springs for White Party?

JS: Palm Springs is a mecca of beauty, relaxation, and heat, heat, heat! The best place to be to experience White Party of course is our Host Hotel, The Renaissance Palm Springs. It is in the middle of the action, and ALL parties are within walking distance. We also offer the Friday pool party free to hotel guests, and a discounted rate on our Sunday pool party! All in all, it’s the place to be! Book now, until April 1st, and mention White Party for my special rate!!

JK: What about those who need a break from the action?

JS: We’ve got YOGA again this year on Saturday & Sunday at 10:30am with Yogi Master Francisco Ramos on the lawn behind the Renaissance Hotel at the east entrance to the Convention Center.

IMPULSE will be offering12-Step Recovery Meetings in the Renaissance Hotel Snow Creek Conference Room on Friday at 7pm; Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 10am.

JK: Based on ticket sales so far, are you expecting about the same amount of attendees as last year or more?

JS: Because we moved it to May, more people are able to come, and I am thrilled! The response has been amazing!

JK: About how many attendees do you anticipate?

JS: More than our 30,000 attendees throughout the weekend from all over the world including Canada, Australia, and Europe, as well as many from all over the USA! JK: How many fireworks go into that insane display at the end of T Dance?

JK: What are three things everyone should pack for White Party?

JS: Something white, something sexy, and something that makes you feel confident (that can be one thing right?), also a tube of chapstick, and an open mind… you never know what to expect, who you are going to meet, and where the weekend will take you! I promise you though…. it will be an AMAZING time!

JK: What has been the most rewarding part for you in creating White Party year after year?

JS: I think that meeting guys from all around the world that have come to the White Party, and have thanked me for helping them “come out” or to “feel good about being gay.” It warms my heart to think that I, in a small part, have been instrumental in not only entertaining people, but also to help some come to terms with who they are, and how much fun it can be, when you finally can be yourself.

JK: Where can we go to get all the latest details and information?

JS: You kind find everything on one convenient place: www.jeffreysanker.com

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FEATURE

YOU HAVE A CHOICE TO MAKE

BY JIM MURPHY

If you are planning a vacation to Palm Springs or have done so recently, chances are you have spent considerable time in the various vacation rental marketplaces searching for the perfect rental house on either, Airbnb, HomeAway or FlipKey. So did you notice anything different lately? For example, were there a lot more properties to view and select from? Did you notice how much more difficult it is to contact the home owner in order to ask basic questions you might have had about the property? And did you also happen to notice the bottom line prices for these houses have increased considerably as well?

So what gives? What is really going on here?

Well for the past ten years, the vacation rental industry has been steadily growing into a nearly $200 billion travel market sector. As the vacation rental marketplace continues to grow and change, the popular vacation rental sites like Airbnb, HomeAway, VRBO, and FlipKey have been seizing upon this rapid market growth by commoditizing the seasonal rental inventory and creating more streamlined and transactional websites where travelers can see, decide, and “instant book” a reservation in little to no time. This is great, right? How much easier can it be? One-stop vacation house shopping!

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But there is a catch to this convenience that many travelers are clueless to and it comes in the form of additional fees to both the traveler and the property owners. The traveler just sees the voluminous number of eye-popping listings on the different websites along with the quick booking options without realizing the increase in pricing and fees that lurk below the surface. These additional fees come in the form of “service fees” and “transaction fees” added to the bottom line of the travelers as well as the property owners. The overall effect on this business dynamic is higher prices charged to the traveler, less money actually going to the owner of the property, and, of course, more money going to the vacation rental websites.

So what exactly are these fees and how much are they costing the traveler and owners? Here are a few general examples: Service Fees: Using VRBO and HomeAway as examples, they both will charge the traveler a service fee from 5 to 12 percent of the reservation booked. It is not clearly defined by either service provider how much of a service fee will actually be charged until after the traveler has made and committed to the reservation. So

a typical service fee for a 3-night stay costing roughly $3,000 will be between 8-10 percent or an additional $250 added to the traveler’s bottom line costs.

Transaction Fees: These fees are for the processing fees charged for every online credit card payment that is made. These costs are usually 2.9 percent for most credit-cards; however, rates will be nearly doubled for cards issued from different countries. So, for example, if there is a two-step payment process, this means there will actually be 3 transactions made on the credit card provided; 1) the initial payment; 2) the final payment; and 3) the return of the security deposit. Assuming just the return of the $2,000 security deposit, a transaction fee of $58 will be added on to the traveler’s bill.

All total, by booking a reservation through any one the those large rental marketplaces, travelers are looking at spending hundreds of additional dollars for perhaps a slightly more convenient booking process and the illusion of greater rental property choice.

But is it worth it? In the 3-night example given, the additional $308 spent on additional fees could have been applied to an additional night at the same house or several very elegant dinners out on the town while on vacation. So, again, is it worth it?

Many independent owners like me, at ModMansions, and all of our clients, do not agree the additional fees are fair or worth the cost once they discover the real impact of the “service fees” and “transaction fees” to their overall vacation budget.

It is my contention that these large rental marketplace websites such as Airbnb, VRBO, HomeAway and FlipKey are shooting themselves in the foot. There is not a single client of ModMansions who will return to any of these larger websites when they discover they can view, select and book their reservation on our private website and incur no additional service or transaction fees. What’s more, ModMansions can be reached for questions 7 days a week via the phone, text and/or email.

So the good news is that you really do have a choice when making plans for your next vacation to Palm Springs – go to www.ModMansions.com – We Rent Palm Springs Luxury!!

WHERE TO STAY? Do you have a place to stay? Here is your opportunity to check out ModMansions and see what we have available for rent.

ModMansions offers the best Palm Springs Rentals available and all of our properties have been remodeled for today’s traveller. Check out our Palm Springs vacation homes and Palm Springs luxury vacation rentals and give us a call to book your incredible Palm Springs getaway today - (760) 209-4311. ¡También, hablamos español!

Jim Murphy & Hal Keasler, Owners ModMansions, LLC 760-449-6424 | jim@modmansions.com www.modmansions.com

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FEATURE

WHERE CAN I GET IT?

BY DANN FOLEY

As a professional designer with more than 30 years of experience in my own firm, I can honestly say that one of the most asked questions I get is, “Where can I get it?” In a world of homogenized retail and internet searches it seems as though our offerings have not gotten larger, only smaller. Clients today come to Dann Inc. as much for creativity and professionalism, as they do for our sourcing abilities.

No matter how fast your internet connection the search for unique and special products for your home still takes a great deal of know how. For me, I am only as good as a designer as the design and product that I can deliver to my clients. They expect more than just the every day items available at every home store. Sourcing is the key and the lifeblood of every great design firm. I am fond of saying, “We don’t need more choices, just better choices.” But, where are those choices?

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I attend trade shows around the globe that are open only to design professionals throughout the year. I travel to LA, New York, Highpoint and Dallas, to as far as Europe, China and India. It is in these places that the big and small manufacturers from every country gather to entice buyers with the best, the latest and the unique. I often tell my clients that beyond the vision that we bring to every room and every job it is our special ability to find them beautiful “things” that makes the big difference.

As a creative person I get a thrill out of finding new vendors, new products and new artisans. I realize that not everyone can hire an Interior Designer. Just like when you are using the internet, you must ask the right questions, to get the right answers. Here are a few of my favorites tips when I am searching for products…

If you are doing an internet search, avoid the first 4 or 5 results that come up. They are usually paid placement and likely be the most common product or, not what you are looking for If you using a retailer with an online presence or online auction sites, request more information from the seller. If they are legitimate, they will gladly answer your questions. Additionally, I always request more photos with additional angles and a measuring tape against the item to assure proper measurements.

Shopping is important! Take your time, every piece should be considered and investment in, Living Well.

If you are trying to find budget friendly and unique items for your home, steer clear of the “establishes stores” or “design centers”, they have a tendency to be quite pricey. I like to hit offbeat neighborhoods and areas where I know manufacturing or importing is taking place.

Most companies will grant access to the general public for samples sales. Those can be a gold mind of style and affordability.

Don’t be afraid to ask a designer! I get requests for single pieces or help sourcing furniture on a regular basis and we are only too happy to help fill those orders.

What makeover television has taught us is that everyone loves to see great rooms made from bland rooms. Also, because of TV we all want to try our hand at decorating. A professional helps you to focus your ideas and to better understand your needs. A true creative professional can then present to you the ideas and the materials and products to achieve your ultimate goals.

Great design comes in every style and every price point. Living well is about the choices we make and having the right choices or, at least multiple choices to give your rooms and your homes a personality that you can call your own.

Sourcing is key, for you as a homeowner and for me as a designer.

That is why I am here. This is why I chose The Standard Magazine, to share with you our firms wealth of knowledge and hopefully inspire you to live a more beautiful, more comfortable lives filled with the things that have meaning to you. We all know the old saying, “living well is the best revenge”. I like to take it further and internalize the saying by suggesting, Living Well is for everyone, we all deserve it and we can all achieve it with a little help and… oh, and it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Live Well!

APRIL 2017 19

PALM SPRINGS GAY MEN’S CHORUS™

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BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED…

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

“I’m telling!”

If you were ever a child, that whine is familiar to you. It indicated a tattletale nearby, a secret spilled to Mom, and somebody about to be in trouble.

Whatever. Annoying as it was, “I’m telling” never hurt much more than your pride then. Today, as in the new book “Scores” by Michael D. Blutrich, serious snitching could get a guy killed.

How does it happen that a gay man would own a mainstream strip club?

It was, says Michael Blutrich, a long story that started after he opened his law firm and, in search of an investment, purchased an L.A. nightclub. Believing that the success of his California business could transfer to New York, he recalled the excitement of a private banker who claimed he’d always wanted to own an upscale strip club.

Being a closeted gay man, that wasn’t exactly Blutrich’s dream but the idea niggled at his brain. Partnering with the banker and others, they began looking for a building and batting ideas around.

Scores was born, with a planned opening on Halloween night, 1991.

“And then the mafia arrived.”

In order to operate, the partners were told, they would need “protection,” which would involve some of New York’s biggest mafia families in a sort of symbiotic relationship, plus a grand-a-week kickback. It would also involve skirting Big Apple laws for as long as possible, because Scores would be the city’s “first and most notorious upscale gentlemen’s club” and there were rules against what a customer would find inside those Upper East Side doors.

Because of the novelty and the entertainment it offered, Scores was successful – more successful than Blutrich had ever thought. He rode a wave that made him a rich and semi-famous man – at least, until the FBI caught up with him and made him an offer he couldn’t refuse…

And, of course, that’s far from the end of the tale. What’s left to say about “Scores” involves rompishness, humor, surprisingly heartpounding chapters, a little Goodfellas, a little Boogie Nights, and quite a bit of fun.

That last appeal comes in the form of overgrown tales, courtesy of author Michael D. Blutrich’s memories of what happened inside his gentlemen’s club every evening for nearly five years. Readers who remember the most infamous discos of the 70s will find something familiar in that, updated to the 1990s but no less outrageous.

But this book isn’t all party: Blutrich delightfully drops names, including many you’ll recognize, but he’s deadly serious when he

switches his tale from wild to wired, from dancing to danger. Indeed, though you know the risk has largely passed – he wrote a book, after all, right? – the whole of the story is one you’ve got to read.

There’s an amazingly small amount of profanity and prurience inside this book; it’s there, but not as much as you’d think there’d be, given the subject matter. That restraint uniquely serves to enhance this book, and heightens the story’s value. And that makes “Scores” a book you’ll want to tell everyone about.

“Scores: How I Opened the Hottest Strip Club in New York City, Was Extorted Out of Millions by the Gambino Family, and Became One of the Most Successful Mafia informants in FBI History” by Michael D. Blutrich c.2017, BenBella Books $26.95 / $37.50 Canada 328 pages

APRIL 2017 23

THE AMAZON TRAIL

SPRING IS COMING SOON– ISN’T IT?

BY LEE LYNCH

Okay, I give in, it’s depression. I might as well face it. And I know I’m not alone.

You can guess when it started: November 8, 2016. I tried to overcome it by resisting, ignoring, laughing at the fools on the hill. Like the amazing Elizabeth Warren, I persisted, but so did this depression.

I’ve buried myself in books, my favorites: British police procedurals like Cynthia Harrod-Eagles, Graham Hurley, Elizabeth George. Right now, they’re less gloomy than what has become of the land that I love. The local library has seen a lot of me lately. My sweetheart has done extra duty with cuddling, encouraging, listening. It’s crazy, my life has never been better: I’m married to a spectacular woman, we have shelter, food, friends, yet I can’t shake the depression.

I had a twelve-step sponsor who warned me against the word depression. “Call it being down in the dumps, feeling blue.” Sorry, Mary, I’m beyond that now. The only substitution I can make is “lowspirited.” I have no creative energy, no enthusiasm or passion, even some of the time, no interest in reading. I nap; I find cheer in the activity of the birds outside and our cat inside. I am grateful, because those treasures in themselves make for a good life.

Yet the depression started in deep winter. We don’t have

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blizzards here, but the wind and rain have been unrelenting.

Walking has always been a helpful tool in downward spirals, and I always have loved walking, even while the atmospheric river called the Pineapple Express barrels through as it has this year. Now that my arthritis has gotten worse, though, walking in the damp and cold has become painful enough to be unwise. Finding the motivation and spunk to get on the exercycle is another battle.

Then I heard from my oldest friend. She’s been diagnosed with liver cancer that spread to the pancreas. We’ve known each other since seventh grade, fell in love, and came out together. She was always going to be around. She has a loving daughter and granddaughter and partner and just turned seventy-one.

Mortality is a sharp, ice-cold slap in the face. I can’t fix her, save her, or even soothe her. She’s a nurse and says she’d rather live a good four months than eight months of torture. Immediately thereafter, I started winnowing out my books. I’ve been hauling some of them around almost as long as I’ve known my friend. My office is too cluttered; I can’t find things. In the process, I’ve tossed out other worn out, once beloved objects. I know what this sounds like, this divesting of possessions, but I suspect it’s more about my friend than me. It’s a letting go.

Two days after I heard my friend’s news, I came down with the Coastal Crud, a term used by an R.N. at the local hospital to describe a flu-ish cold that drags on for weeks, guaranteeing an annoying cough and lower energy than an empty gas tank. My sweetheart said it’s like the Trump election—insidious, always at the back of my throat, inducing a gagging threat of nausea and perpetuating the gloom of an everlasting winter. There were times when, resting prone, it took all my energy to keep breathing.

Once back at my laptop, I discovered that my ability to focus had called in sick. What’s a writer without focus? I did a lot of research for my next book, and very little actual writing, while sitting in front of a S.A.D. light (for Seasonal Affective Disorder), a handy tool in this climate.

But the birds are coming back. V’s of geese have been honking overhead. Rust-colored rufous hummingbirds are making year-round hummers share their feeders. Clouds of robins regularly descend on the berry bushes outside our kitchen window. Crocuses, hyacinths, daffodils are showing their colors. Shoots of mystery are poking out of the ground and pots where we planted who knows what.

It’s also the season for award finalists to be announced. While I

don’t write for awards or money, every writer knows how encouraging it is to be recognized. The Goldies are one reason I’m grateful to The Golden Crown Literary Society, Saints and Sinners, and The Alice B. Readers Awards. To paraphrase my sweetheart, other organizations seem to bypass books written by actual lesbians, published by lesbians, edited by lesbians, bought and read by lesbians.

A couple of days ago, a break in the weather gave us spring for about twenty-four hours. Neighbors were everywhere in the streets greeting one another. The next day the blowing rain drove us back inside. Driven inside to the computer, radio, and TV news. The what-has-he-done-now news, the end of health insurance news, the destroy civil rights news.

Spring is in the air, though, and I’m finding breaths of it on Twitter. Here’s @leahmcelrath (she persisted) on Twitter: “When you feel despair creep in... Take a moment to look around at the mobilization of resistance. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Then a sweet reminder from poet James Schwartz (@ queeraspoetry) tweeting my own “It Gets Better” message (@ LeeLynchWriter @ItGetsBetter youtu.be/DUzBYHciUr4) back to me when I most need it.

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APRIL 2017 27

PSP FOCUS COACHELLA FEST ROCKS THE VALLEY

Coachella Fest featuring more than 150 acts performing on several stages. Taking place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA, over the weekends of April 14-16 and April 21-23, Coachella will feature plenty of big-name artists on this year’s bill; including Radiohead, Lady Gaga (in for Beyoncé) and Kendrick Lamar as the headliners for both weekends of the fest. Perhaps one of the most anticipated performances will be from Lorde, who hasn’t toured since 2014 or released new original music since 2013’s Pure Heroine. Also featured in the lineup are the xx, Travis Scott, Father John Misty, Future, Bon Iver, DJ Snake, Tove Lo, DJ Khaled and New Order.

The other half of the festival is dedicated to visual arts, including installation art and sculptures. Most of the pieces are interactive, providing a visual treat to the attendees walking amongst the festival grounds. This year there will be new artist in addition to some returning favorites including, Chiaozza Garden, Olalekan Jeyifous, Big Bear, Do Lab and Raices Cultura. As Chiaozza (pronounced like “wowza!”), Terri Chiao and Adam Frezza create work across a range of media, from painted sculpture to playgrounds. Known for their colorful projects at the intersection of imagination and the natural world, the duo’s public installations have graced the Wave Hill Botanical Garden, Villa Lena in Italy, and numerous other art and design venues internationally. With a background in architecture,

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Olalekan “Lek” Jeyifous turns his building experience into art, creating immersive visualizations of speculative environments. Among many other fellowships, the Nigerian-born, Brooklyn-based creative has been Artist-in-Residence at the Headlands Center for the Arts and in the Visible Futures Lab at the School of Visual Arts.

The success of Coachella in its early years proved music festivals could work and succeed in a destination form, as opposed to a traveling festival. The year of Coachella’s debut was also the year of Woodstock ‘99, which was marred by riots, fires, and rapes, turning many people off music festivals. In the years following Coachella’s success, many other festivals have followed in its footsteps, copying its format as a destination festival with multiple stages, attractions, art, and camping.

Some of these new festivals have grown to achieve the same success as Coachella, such as Lollapalooza in Chicago and Bonnaroo in Tennessee.

The Coachella festival tries to reduce its carbon footprint on the environment every year. The festival highly promotes carpooling for its attendees that include rewards for people who participate.

Travelers who choose to carpool with four or more people in one car and have the word “Carpoolchella” displayed somewhere on their car have a chance to be selected by a secret spotter to win VIP tickets for life for everyone in the car.

PSP FOCUS

One of the most popular festivals is the Coachella Music and Arts Festival, which last year drew over 200,000 music lovers to the Empire Polo Club for three days of performances by some of

the best artists from around the world. This year it promises to once again amaze, entertain and awe. For complete performer line-up & info go to www.coachella.com

APRIL 2017 29

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS* Contributing 100% The Barn Kitchen at Sparrow Lodge L Pho 533 D Ristretto for Coffee Lovers All Day Townie Bagels BL Contributing 75% Spencer’s Restaurant BLD Contributing 60% Trio Restaurant LD

On Thursday, April 27, select Coachella Valley restaurants will donate 33% or more of the total food and beverage sales at their location supporting Desert AIDS Project’s mission to enhance and promote the health and well-being of our community. Make one meal matter by gathering your friends to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at participating locations.

Presented by

Contributing 50% Acqua California Bistro BLD Alicante Spanish American Cuisine LD Bongo Johnny’s Patio & Grill BLD Chill Bar All Day Lulu California Bistro BLD Rio Azul Mexican Bar & Grill D Sunshine Café BLD Zin American Bistro LD Contributing 33% Appetito Deli LD Aspen Mills BL Bonta Restaurant & Bar D Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant D Chicken Ranch LD Copley’s on Palm Canyon D Dickey’s Barbecue Pit LD dish Creative Cuisine D Draughtsman D Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge LD El Mirasol at Los Arboles LD El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana LD Escena Lounge & Grill D Firehouse Subs - Palm Desert LD Firehouse Subs - Palm Springs LD Fox and Fiddle LD Georgie’s Alibi/Azul LD Guacamoles LD Hilton Palm Springs LD Hunters Nightclub All Day Jake’s LD JT’s Diner BL Kaiser Grille - Palm Desert D Kaiser Grille - Palm Springs LD King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel BLD Maracas - Palm Springs LD Maracas - Rancho Mirage LD Over the Rainbow Cupcakes All Day Pinocchio in the Desert BL Purple Palm LD Reservoir at Arrive Hotel D Slice - Rancho Mirage LD Tipper’s Gourmet Marketplace BLD The Tropicale D Vicky’s of Santa Fe D Watercress Vietnamese Bistro D

diningoutforlife.com/palmsprings/restaurants 30 THESTANDARDPS.COM

*as of 3/22/17 Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

PSP FOCUS COUNTRY AT ITS BEST: STAGECOACH 2017

Get ready to break out your best cowboy boots because the 2017 Stagecoach Country Music Festival is upon us. Here’s your chance to see several of Nashville’s best and brightest musicians perform live. This three-day event will feature some of the hottest stars in country music.

The Stagecoach Music Festival is one of country music’s most highly anticipated events of the year, and the 2017 festival will be more exciting than ever. With performances by the top country music acts, this festival has something for everyone who follows country music.

Dierks Bentley, Shania Twain and Kenny Chesney are this year’s headliners. The three-day event takes place during the weekend of April 28-30 at the Polo Empire Club in Indio, CA.

Bentley, will headline the first night of the festival. Friday’s lineup also includes Cole Swindell, 38 Special and Randy House; as well as country voices Jon Pardi, Elle King and Anderson East to name a few.

Shania Twain will lead Saturday night’s lineup. Other performers on the bill include Willie Nelson, Kip Moore, Margo Price, Brett Eldredge and Dan & Shay among others.

Kenny Chesney will conclude the festival on Sunday night, following sets by Thomas Rhett, Cyndi Lauper and Travis Tritt along with The Long Ryders, Wynonna & The Big Noise and Cowboy Junkies.

If you’re any kind of country music fan, this is one party you won’t want to miss. Tickets to attend this red-hot bash are in extremely high demand. For more info and complete list of performers visit www.stagecoachfestival.com

APRIL 2017 31

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PSP FOCUS DINING OUT FOR LIFE COACHELLA VALLEY Local restaurants ‘Make One Meal Matter’ to benefit Desert AIDS Project.

More than 60 restaurants across the Coachella Valley will ‘Make One Meal Matter’ on April 27 when they participate in Dining Out for Life 2017 supporting Desert AIDS Project. Locally, an estimated 10,000 diners will eat breakfast, lunch or dinner during the annual event that also happens in cities across the United State and Canada.

Dining Out for Life is a national campaign held each year on the last Thursday in April throughout the United States and Canada to raise funds for AIDS Service Organizations. Generous participating restaurants in the Coachella Valley have committed to contribute 33% or more of their food, beverage, and liquor gross sales to support Desert AIDS Project on April 27.

“This is a unique opportunity for people to join the fight against HIV/AIDS. Just choose one of the participating restaurants and enjoy a meal with friends or family and enjoy a great meal. We are grateful to the restaurants that continue to support our mission and pleased to welcome many new ones this year,” said David Brinkman, CEO of Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.).

Dining Out for Life has benefitted Desert AIDS Project for twelve years, raising $200,000 last year alone. It’s always been a popular event in the West Valley, but with the list of new participants this year, it has become a truly valley-wide event.

“The event generates community awareness of HIV / AIDS and supports Desert AIDS Projects mission to enhance health and wellbeing of our community.” Added Brinkman Founded in 1984 in Palm Springs, California, as a volunteer response to the emerging AIDS crisis, Desert AIDS Project today is the largest nonprofit federally qualified health center in Palm Springs specializing in HIV care and prevention. The agency’s “Get Tested Coachella Valley” public health initiative is dedicated to ensuring that every teen and adult knows their HIV status and that those who test positive are connected to care. D.A.P. serves over 3,600 clients who reside in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties of Southern California.

“For more than 30 years, Desert AIDS Project has provided primary health care, dental, social services and nutrition to people living with HIV and AIDS. Fundraisers like Dining Out for Life help us serve the fifty new clients who walk through our doors every month” said Darrell Tucci, Chief Development Officer at Desert AIDS Project.

“Dining Out for Life is a fun event that brings our community together. Our volunteer ambassadors look forward to welcoming diners every year. People don’t have to do anything special. We’re not asking anyone to do something out of the ordinary. We’re just

asking people to ‘Make One Meal Matter’ by going out to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner with friends and family at participating restaurants.” Said George Nasci-Sinatra, Resource Development Event Manager at Desert AIDS Project.

Participating restaurants include (but are not limited to) Townie Bagels, The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge, Pho 533, Ristretto For Coffee Lovers, Spencer’s Restaurant, Trio Restaurant, Chill Bar, Alicante Spanish American Cuisine, Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar & Grille, LULU California Bistro, Over The Rainbow Cupcakes, Raw Remedy Organic Juice & Raw Food Bar, Rio Azul Mexican Bar & Grill, Sunshine Café, Zin American Bistro, Appetito Deli. Aspen Mills Bakery & Café, Bonta Restaurant & Bar, Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant, Chicken Ranch, Copley’s On Palm Canyon, Dickey’s Barbeque Pit- Palm Springs, dish Creative Cuisine, Draughtsman, Eight4Nine Restaurant, El Mirasol at Los Arboles, El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana, Escena Lounge & Grill, FARM, Firehouse Subs Palm Desert, Firehouse Subs Palm Springs, Fox & Fiddle California, Georgie’s Alibi/Azul, Guacamoles, Jake’s, JT’s Diner, Kaiser Grille Palm Desert, Kaiser Grille, Palm Springs, King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel and Swim Club, Maracas Cantina & Grill - Rancho Mirage, Maracas Mexican Cantina & Grill - Palm Springs, Pinocchio in the Desert, Purple Palm at Colony Palms Hotel, Reservoir, The Slice N.Y. Style Pizzeria Ristorante, SO•PA at L’Horizon Resort and Spa, Tipper’s Gourmet Marketplace, The Tropicale, Vicky’s of Santa Fe, Watercress Vietnamese Bistro, Blaze Pizza – Palm Desert, Blaze Pizza – Palm Springs, The Terrace at Hilton Palm Springs, Cuistot, Giuseppe’s Pizza and Pasta Palm Springs, Smoke Tree BBQ Palm Springs.

Please visit the following websites for more info • 2017 Participating Restaurants: www.diningoutforlife.com/ palmsprings/restaurants/ • Be a Dining Out for Life Ambassador: www.diningoutforlife. com/palmsprings/volunteer/ • Get Social #DOFLCV on Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/events/1634348226894641/

APRIL 2017 33

LEGALLY SPEAKING

ON A LIGHTER NOTE

BY CHRISTOPHER HERITAGE

Sometimes the political landscape gets a little rocky, upsetting our push for equality, our dream of full acceptance and our faith in civil rights. As we gear up for the unknown future, it can help to step back and let a little humor into our lives. As a lawyer, I’m not crazy about funny lawyer stories and jokes, but every now and then I come across some that give me a really good laugh. Try these on for size:

lawyer for his loss of the rare cigars lost in the ‘fires”. After the lawyer cashed the check, the insurance company had him arrested on 24 counts of ARSON! With his own insurance claim and testimony from the previous case being used against him, the lawyer was convicted of intentionally burning his insured property and was sentenced to 24 months in jail and a $24,000 fine.

*This one is a true story A Charlotte, North Carolina lawyer purchased a box of very rare and expensive cigars, and then insured them against fire, among other things. Within a month, having smoked his entire stockpile of these great cigars and without yet having made even his first premium payment on the policy, the lawyer filed a claim against the insurance company.

In his claim, the lawyer stated the cigars were lost in a series of small fires. The insurance company refused to pay, citing the obvious reason that the man had consumed the cigars in the normal fashion.

The lawyer sued…and WON! In delivering the ruling, the judge agreed with the insurance company that the claim was frivolous. The judge stated, nevertheless, that the lawyer “held a policy from the company in which it had warranted that the cigars were insurable and also guaranteed that it would insure them against fire, without defining what is considered to be unacceptable fire” and was obligated to pay the claim.

Rather than endure a lengthy and costly appeal process, the insurance company accepted the ruling and paid $15,000 to the

*The following jokes illustrate some of the finer points of lawyering A housewife, an accountant and a lawyer were asked, “How much is 2+2?” The housewife replies; “Four!” The accountant says: “I think it’s either 3 or 4. Let me run those figures through my spreadsheet one more time.” The lawyer pulls the drapes, dims the lights and asks in a hushed voice, “How much do you want it to be?”

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*Two lawyers walking through the woods spotted a viciouslooking bear. The first lawyer immediately opened his briefcase, pulled out a pair of sneakers and started putting them on. The second lawyer looked at him and said, ‘You’re crazy! You’ll never be able to outrun that bear!” “I don’t have to,” The first lawyer calmly replied. “I only have to outrun you.” *A doctor and a lawyer in two cars collided on a country road.

The lawyer, seeing that the doctor was a little shaken up, helped him from the car and offered him a drink from his hip flask. The doctor accepted and handed the flask back to the lawyer, who closed it

and put it away. “Aren’t you going to have a drink yourself?” asked the doctor. “Sure, after the police leave,” replied the lawyer. *An old man was on his deathbed. He wanted badly to take all his money with him. He called his priest, his doctor and his lawyer to his bedside. “Here’s $30,000 cash to be held by each of you.

I trust you to put this in my coffin when I die so I can take all my money with me.” At the funeral, each man put an envelope in the coffin. Riding away in a limousine, the priest suddenly broke into tears and confessed that he had only put $20,000 into the envelope because he needed $10,000 for a new baptistery. “Well, since we’re confiding in each other,” said the doctor, “I only put $10,000 in the envelope because we needed a new machine at the hospital which cost $20,000.” The lawyer was aghast. “I’m ashamed of both of you,” he exclaimed. I want it known that when I put my envelope in that coffin, it held my personal check for the full $30,000.” *Gaming the System – Engineers – 1, Lawyers – 0 Three lawyers and three engineers are traveling by train to a conference. At the station, the three lawyers each buy tickets and watch as the three engineers buy only a single ticket. “How are three people going to travel on only one ticket,” asked one of the three lawyers. “Watch and you’ll see,” answers one of the engineers.

They all board the train. The lawyers take their respective seats but all three engineers cram into a restroom and close the door behind them. Shortly after the train departs, the conductor comes around collecting tickets. He knocks on the restroom door and says, “Ticket, please.” The door opens just a crack and a single arm emerges with a ticket in hand. The conductor takes it and moves on. The lawyers saw this and agreed it was quite a clever idea.

So after the conference, the lawyers decide to copy the engineers on the return trip and save some money. When they get to the station, they buy a single ticket for the return trip. To their astonishment, the engineers don’t buy a ticket at all. “How are you going to travel without a ticket?” asks one perplexed lawyer.

“Watch and you’ll see,” says one of the engineers. When they board the train the three lawyers cram into a restroom and the three engineers cram into another one nearby. The train departs. Shortly afterward, one of the engineers leaves his restroom and walks over to the restroom where the lawyers are hiding. He knocks on the door and says, “Ticket, please.”

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

APRIL 2017 35

WELLNESS

THAT GUT FEELING

BY JILL LANGHAM

If you’re at all like me you’ve been inundated with tons of information about digestive enzymes, their function and purpose and how to utilize them correctly for maximum potential. To understand their role its important to appreciate that unless our foods are broken down before they get to the intestinal system where their nutrient value can be absorbed, we have to have the proper enzymes to do so. I mentioned that I had had some blood tests to determine food allergies and at the same time was tested for liver and gallbladder enzymes to make sure my body was fully equipped. Sadly, the results showed that I was lacking in a few of the enzymes that break down fats and some carbohydrates. This missing information helped me understand why I’d had so many digestive issues in the past, from bloating, gas, stomachaches, severe constipation and difficulty losing fat. But, I was still missing some critical information.

What I was missing was the relationship between undigested foods, a weak immune system and leaky gut syndrome. It all started making sense to me when I learned that as much as 70% of our immune system is located in our intestines. The immune system is what fights off illness, but because I’d been eating foods that I was unknowingly allergic to caused my body to rebel. The missing enzymes could not break down these foods making them too large to be digested and they ended up damaging my intestines by punching small holes in the intestinal walls, known as leaky gut that is thought to lead to food sensitive’s, I.B.S, thyroid problems, mal-absorption, acne and psoriasis, and mood issues!

I truly was amazed to learn of this and knew that it was up

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to me to strengthen my immune system, because I was coming down with too many little illness regardless of what I ate. I wondered if I could strengthen my own immune system by adding in some enzymes, supplements and removing the food I was allergic to. I’d been eating “clean” for almost 20 years, avoiding bread, pasta, milk products, sugar and the likes but couldn’t understand why I was still getting ill. I also knew that alcohol wreaked havoc throughout the body affecting many things including the absorption of B vitamins, which takes place in the intestines as well as eating away muscles, which for a bodybuilder is pretty counter-productive. I knew that one quick solution was to quit drinking but I do enjoy my champagne so I started investigating digestive enzymes and probiotics. I learned that there are both prebiotics as well as probiotics. By ingesting these supplements as directed, I began to feel better and was not getting sick as often. I work in a gym, which is known to house illness so I wanted to be as strong as I could internally as well as externally.

Personally, I’m not a believer in flu shots or antibiotics so I needed to keep myself well at all costs. Over the last 5 years, my rate of illness has gone way down and I believe that it is a result of these additions.

My oldest brother has severe Crohn’s Disease, and 2 of my aunts had ileitis and colitis so I knew that I had a propensity for some intestinal issues but wanted to avoid them at all costs. After giving the enzymes a chance to work I began to notice that the bloating and gas were gone and much more important, the constipation was beginning to change dramatically! I know these are not the easiest topics to discuss but they sure are the topic of conversations with infants, aren’t they! Toilet training and its success is huge in most families, but as

soon as it’s been mastered it, it’s the last time anyone wants to chat about it until we are “old” and it again becomes the number one topic of conversation! Lol, I guess I’m showing my age! Anyway, my stomachaches stopped and I became more “regular.” Did you know that it’s very common to evacuate one’s bowels after every meal? I didn’t even think it was possible but now know that it is and that it’s considered to be healthy. I mean babies do it, don’t they?

I’m so happy to have learned so much about my body and hope that some of these ideas and suggestions might assist you if you’re having any of the same types of issues. As always, Good Health to you!

XOXO Got questions or need help? Feel free to contact me. Jill is a Certified Personal Trainer with over 40 years experience, an NPC bodybuilding & Figure competitor, and winner of 21 Trophies, 9 of which are First Place, a motivational speaker, author, a graduate of E.S.T and has experience in Chemical Dependence, Hormones, Individual & Group Therapy.

Contact jill@jilllangham.com; Facebook account is under Jill Langham.

Phone 760-218-1527

APRIL 2017 37

NUTRITION

THE AFFLICTION THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

BY LINDA BERGERSEN, MS HOLISTIC NUTRITIONIST

I have an affliction. I have no disease, no illness. I want to help people; that’s my affliction.

‘underrated’ information. It is just so sad to see so many continue on a downward path instead of uphill to better health.

In becoming a nutritionist and discovering why people really do get sick and obese, I was eager to learn all I could in order to help the light bulb go off in everyone’s head as to how to save themselves. But over the years I find it’s not that easy. No, it is easy for people to save themselves once they know how; it’s not easy for them to want to do it. You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink; they much prefer the Kool-Aid, literally.

The big elephant in the room is the addiction to drugs, and I don’t mean that in the familiar sense; I mean that our medical community has harnessed almost everyone into believing that drugs are the only way to go; that drugs are their savior, that drugs are the norm; we now see that that has certainly been made indelible in most people’s minds, especially as we see that every other commercial on TV is a drug commercial. But herbs and such were the norm, and helped so many far before drugs became standard.

Yes, I have found that people do not want to either change or be told they are not eating the right foods. And a powerful reason is not only their attachment to these detrimental foods but also their attachment to the medical community, which gives them different, unsubstantial nutritional information. And because the medical establishment has become so revered over decades, they are the last word.

After decades full of a multitude of diets meant to help us lose weight [and didn’t], the truths are now emerging both on why we gain weight and become diseased. Besides the ever-present addiction of smoking, which still hovers around 15% of the U.S. population (an average of 10% of pregnant women still smoke), our main addiction is to processed and refined foods, and that is what is bringing us to our knees. Over centuries, our foods have been excessively altered to satisfy our taste buds to the ultimate level of gratification, throwing out any regard for what they do to our bodies. What is in the foods we eat, the way our foods are prepared by food manufacturers and restaurants is the predominant reason for disease and obesity. It’s all about what goes into our mouths.

We nutritionists have been unheard, underrated and underrecognized for far too long, but the tide is turning as more and more people become aware of how important foods and nutrients really are. And as they can identify with the horrible side effects of the drugs they are told to take.

I do see some light at the end of the tunnel. Just in the last few years, fast food restaurants have begun to change their ingredients, a variety of alternative milks are lining the shelves, and the knowledge of toxins in our foods, home products and cosmetics has come to light. And one thing I am happy to see is more doctors are turning to alternative medicine.

One of my main focuses is to help people off of unnecessary drugs, and I hope to see this come about, and the commercials diminish.

Our bodies do not crave nor ask for drugs; once in there, they really don’t know what to do with them; the body is just overridden by their aggressive behavior, leaving toxic waste in their wake.

I’ve been able to help many people get on the right track toward better health, and hear them be amazed at what these nutritional changes can do: eradicate arthritis, diabetes, skin issues, even gallstones. And losing weight comes along with it.

So I urge everyone to read up on the drugs that are prescribed, and read up more on how to become healthy through good natural foods and nutrients. The mind-body connection is powerful. The foodbody connection is the key. Just one thing to always keep in mind: Avoid refined, processed foods, and you will be much better off.

But so many more just don’t want to attempt nor hear about it. If the doctor doesn’t agree, then they are unable to accept this

One affliction everyone should have is to be passionate about learning how to take control of one’s health.

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SOCIAL COMMENTARY

BLACK IS THE COLOR OF LOVE

BY DR. STEPHAN M. SCOGGINS

So, I recently had a guest visiting our Airbnb, www.ParadiseOnPico. com from Australia. Turns out, she too, is a registered nurse. During her stay, we had great joy discussing many things. She stated that her ultimate goal is to have her own farm where vegetables can be grown with the adequate amount of nutrients, nutrients that would help with our dietary quality of life. I asked her what was the hold up? It was THAT question that led to our conversation on, “Resuscitation”.

How do we “resuscitate” our lives?

Often times in church we speak of resurrection. However, there is a difference between resurrection and resuscitation. Resurrection refers to putting on a new, glorified body, while resuscitation, means raising the person in the old, mortal body in which they died.

Some of us, dare I say, many of us, at various times of our lives, have died! Perhaps the loss of a loved one, a medical diagnosis, ending a relationship that you wanted to keep, the loss of a career, homelessness. Literally, lost all signs that would be consistent with living.

No color, to suggest circulation. No temperature to indicate a warm heart. Minimal movements, with slumped shoulders and a look of exhaustion! We can’t even bring ourselves to look into the mirror.

I once had a patient who said he felt like someone was taking control of his mind – taking control of his body. I thought, How frightening! How frightening it would be for someone to take control of your body.

That’s what is SO beautiful about Christ. He doesn’t take control of your body. He gives YOU control of your body. And that has proven dangerous, at times; especially at the all you can eat buffets.

Of course, there are those who don’t want that responsibility.

When your eyes opened you were given another chance. Another chance at everything! Apologies, forgiveness, at love!

Have you ever heard someone speak so much about the past that you thought they are either stuck in the past or afraid of the future? As people, when we SAY we want to move in a forward direction we have the responsibility of including Christ in our decision making process. We cannot allow sadness to paralyze us. I specifically say sadness and not depression because they are two different things.

In depression, NOTHING matters. In sadness, EVERYTHING matters.

EVERYTHING! You took my parking space. I’m mad! You sat in my

pew seat. I’m mad! You didn’t let me sing. I’m mad! If you were depressed, nothing would matter, and you would not care!

Fortunately, the presence of Christ in People buffers the gap to hopefully prevent depression and resuscitate our sadness into gladness, allowing us to move in the forward direction that we SAY we want.

The purpose of CPR is to delay death and extend the brief window of opportunity for the return of a spontaneous circulation.

The current healthcare industry standards for resuscitation call for 30 compressions and two breaths, providing that you have a barrier device. It certainly wasn’t like that, years ago. You have no idea of how many people I have come mouth to mouth with…and that was just at the clubs. Years ago, before there was ever any talk about a “barrier device,” we just, “saved each other”. Now, everyone is SO concerned about saving who they don’t know. The reality is, you DO know them. They hurt like you hurt. They’re scared like you’re scared.

They wave the same blood spattered banner of Christ the Calvary.

So, you DO know them. They’re not even strangers. They’re probably someone you have laughed with, cried with, prayed with.

We would like to ask all of our many readers to email us at info@BlackIsTheColorOfLove.com and tell us, “What experience in your life provided you with a “resuscitation”? We will post the responses in the next issue and will maintain your confidentiality.

Please accept this personal invitation to visit www.BlackIsTheColorOfLove. com and learn about educational and scholarship opportunities for people of all ages, people of all races. As a nation, we MUST change our culture, our learned behavior, so that it can reflect an expression of love in ways that we have only dreamed.

APRIL 2017 39

MUSIC

QUEER ROCK OPERA “TUNNEL VISION”

BY JEFF DORTA

Set during the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s, the new queer rock opera, Tunnelvision, tells the story of Tim and Troy and their tumultuous relationship, from beginning to end. Written by Tim Cain, the lead singer of the glam rock band, Boys’ Entrance, the seventeen-track album releasing this month is being called the next Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Both use the power of rock to convey a dramatic and powerful story, but while Hedwig uses humor to defuse a personal tragedy, Tunnelvision is more operatic and dramatic, incorporating a wide array of music genres into its story. There is Heavy Metal and Goth; also Soul, Industrial, New Wave, Hip Hop, Jazz, Psychedelic, Gospel and even Cabaret. The songs flow in style and type, helping to inform the lyrics. A stage version, Tunnelvision: The Musical, will debut at Studio 620 in St Petersburg in June. Tunnelvision by Boys’ Entrance is available on iTunes now along with the band’s first single release, “The Wolf Is At The Door”.

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The opera opens with rocker Tim on stage, getting jeered by the audience for being queer. He responds by unabashedly claiming the title of “Mr. Sissy”. His bold declaration wins the crowd over, then, in “Creation,” he explains how the purpose of gay men is to create, not procreate.

Troy, a closeted straight man, happens to be in the audience.

The two hook up after the show and begin a rollercoaster ride of a relationship that involves break-ups and make-ups, drugs, alien encounters and one of the men becoming a call boy. The two say they want to be in a committed relationship together, but they simply don’t know how to navigate the uncharted territory. The physical relationship between Tim and Troy eventually breaks down, but their desires continue unabated. That is when the “wolf” comes knocking at the door.

The wolf in “The Wolf Is At The Door,” the first single release from the album, is temptation. The song is Peter Gabriel meets Duran Duran meets David Bowie. It is funky like Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” with a Duran Duran veneer and a final verse that pays homage to Bowie. It is the climax of the opera, coming at a point of intense exasperation between Tim and Troy, conveying sexual appetite and frustration.

“Who hasn’t experienced both?” questions Cain. “It is a song that grabs listeners by the balls and won’t let go. It makes you want to move,” he says.

In the 25 years since Tim Cain created his band, Boys’ Entrance, he has produced some of Queer Rock’s most iconic, political, and galvanizing music. The band features Cain on vocals and guitar; his multi-instrumentalist husband, Billy Ramsey on bass; lead guitarist, Jaybo Key; and drummer, John Spinelli.

They’ve experienced acclaim and awards over the years. In the ‘90s, Boys’ Entrance received two “Rock Single of the Week” reviews in Billboard Magazine. In 2005, Cain was awarded an OutMusic Award for his 30-year career as a gay musician. And this past October, The Akademia Awards selected “The Wolf Is At The Door” as the month’s “Best Alternative Rock Song”. It has now been nominated for Best Alternative Rock Song of the Year for 2016.

Cain is thrilled that Tunnelvision, his magnum opus, will follow The Who’s Tommy with both album and stage versions. “They will stand alone as separate projects,” he says. “The album offers the old school idea of sitting down and listening, going somewhere in your mind.

Tunnelvision: The Musical will be a tour de force. It will be filled with lust, drama, sex in parks and naked men. Yes, naked men! It is a definite must-see!”

In both the album and stage versions, the story of Tim and Troy ends not-so-happily-ever-after. “It is a rock opera, after all,” explains Cain. “Tragedy is the currency of opera.”

Still, the music of the finale, “Back to One,” sounds like a sunrise.

It conjures up those first few moments when the sky begins to turn and the sun appears. For rocker Tim, there is satisfaction at having removed himself from the madness of his relationship with Troy. There is also a pride that comes from realizing he is ok, alone. “It’s a reminder that at the end of the day, we all ride solo in this journey of life,” says Cain.

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.

“Tunnelvision - the Musical” will debut in St. Petersburg, FL at Studio 620 in June 2017. Tunnelvision, the album by Boys’ Entrance, featuring lead single “The Wolf Is At The Door,” is available on iTunes now. Visit boysentrance.com.

APRIL 2017 41

BUSINESS PROFILE

INNdulge IN PALM SPRINGS

BY CASEY ARASA

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According to Jon Jackson, the best things about owning and operating a gay business in Palm Springs are the location and weather. The worst thing is that it sometimes feels like work.

“But only rarely,” he insists.

Jon is the co-owner of Indulge, one of the leading gay resorts in Palm Springs. He says he never thought about becoming a hotel owner until he and his partner discovered the legendary resort was for sale. “We fell in love with the magic of the place the minute we walked into the pool and courtyard area,” he remembers.

Built in 1958, INNdulge is an awardwinning mid-century jewel. It’s located in the heart of Warm Sands, one of the most popular gay areas of Palm Springs, and features twenty-four poolside rooms surrounding one of the largest pool courtyards in the city. The lush landscaping features immaculately

landscaped lawns and walkways with large modern figure sculptures by artist Mavis McClure, all framed by the incredible views of the San Jacinto Mountains.

Since purchasing the property six years ago, Jackson and his partner have made significant improvements. “This year we renovated all of the rooms with all new furniture, fixtures, carpeting; the works.”

The rooms didn’t exactly need refurbishing.

They were last done six years ago, but “we feel the maintenance of the property is a reflection on us and we want the pride of ownership to show,” Jackson explains.

The one fixture that has not changed — and will never under Jackson’s watch — is the magnificent kidney-shaped pool that is always heated to a perfect 87 degrees (except in the hot summer months when it is chilled). Next to the pool is a 24-hour, 12-

man keyhole whirlpool spa.

“The pool courtyard is meant to encourage dialogue and foster new friendships,” says Jackson.

After all, Palm Springs is nothing if not friendly. Even it’s business community works harmoniously together. “In the Palm Springs tourism industry, what’s good for one local business is good for all others,” says Jackson.

He actively promotes other area businesses to guests.

What does Palm Springs need to do to attract more people to the beautiful desert?

Jackson encourages the community to maintain its welcoming spirit, charming downtown and to also keep the straight crowd in mind. “After all, we all come to Palm Springs seeking the same things: weather, relaxation and a memorable vacation holiday.”

APRIL 2017 43

the3D’s RESTAURANTS VILLAGE PUB 266 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 760.323.3265 www.palmspringsvillagepub.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 where palm springs Eats Try For Free

800-960-6843 707 N Palm Canyon Dr 760.864.8746 | 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 GET IN SHAPE WITH OUR FITNESS ISSUE + FLOWER POWER: Celebrity Florist Roberto Gonzalez

APRIL 2017 45

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EVENTS CALENDAR

NOW THROUGH APRIL 30 DESERT X The Coachella Valley and its desert landscape will become the canvas for a curated exhibition of site-specific work by established and emerging artists, whose projects will amplify and articulate global and local issues that may range from climate change to starry skies, from tribal culture and immigration to tourism, gaming, and golf. The art works, are located in various indoor and outdoor locations. This exhibit is available free and will offer visitors a way to see the valley and reflect on serious and playful issues through the lens of the participating artists’ creativity and work. For more info visit www.desertx.org

APR 22 - 23 PSGMC PRESENTS PALM SPRINGS POP. RICHARDS CENTER FOR THE ARTS PALM SPRINGS A combination of light classical and popular music. The PSGMC’s Pop concert will include the incredible, beautiful and powerful vocal talents of local favorites, Keisha D. and Charles Herrera joining the 80 plus voices of the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus singing songs of love, joy, loss and hope. For tickets visit www.psgmc.com

MAY 4 THE REAL PARTY. THE ACE HOTEL PALM SPRINGS A monthly Real Estate & Lifestyle Network Party for the Real Estate Industry and

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related professionals. Promote your business, expand your contacts bring your business cards and have fun. Prize drawings. For info visit www.RealEstateLifestyleNetwork.com DBA EVENTS FOR MORE INFO VISIT WWW.DESERTBUSINESSASSOCIATION.ORG

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

ONGOING >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> TG MONDAYS. TRANSGENDER SOCIAL EVENT Every second Monday of the month, Transgender Social Hour discussing advocacy, transitioning & HRT. Allies, respectful admirers, and transgender umbrella all welcome. Portion of proceeds to benefit the Raina Chessman Fund. For more info www.transcc.org

PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM The Palm Springs Art Museum offers free admission every Thursday night from 4-8 p.m., sponsored by the City of Palm Springs. This provides an excellent way to start a trip to the City’s VillageFest, the popular weekly street festival held every Thursday night along Palm Canyon Drive. www.psmuseum.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

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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

THE SCORPION ROOM AT CHILL BAR Every Thursday night at 8:00 sharp. Hosted

by Pinkie Meringue Shimmer with a rotating cast of fabulous drag stars from all over Southern California. Wonderful show people, photo ops and audience participation, and wonderful drink specials.

RETRO ROOM LOUNGE Every Saturday night at 10:00 until 11:30.

Drag stars and show people. Tons of fun and amazing hand crafted cocktails.

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

APR 20 - 23 APR 6 - 9

BEARS, BIKERS & MAYHEM GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA Bears, Bikers & Mayhem is the first large event in the US to combine the Bear, Leather, Fetish, Motorcycle and Puppy Communities.

Since its inception, BBM has had the singular goal of being an event at which men who enjoy any or all of these communities will feel welcome, meet other likeminded men and, most importantly, have an incredibly fun time. www.bearsbikersandmayhem.com

APR 14 - 16

KINKFEST 2017 PORTLAND, OREGON KinkFest is an annual, 3-day event celebrating sexual diversity, bdsm, fetish and leather communities. There are numerous educational classes, evening play parties, and a large vendor mall filled with products and services from local and national leather, fetish and kink businesses. KinkFest continues to focus effort on welcoming ALL facets of our diverse leather, bdsm, fetish and kink communities. www.kinkfest.org

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CHERRY 2017 WASHINGTON DC Cherry is a yearly charity dance music event in early April, which has raised more than $988,000 for Washington, DC, HIV/ AIDS service and prevention. Your support of Cherry contributes to the efforts of passionate health and social advocates at the forefront of the DC LGBT community.

Over the years, CHERRY has collaborated with the biggest, most progressive names in dance music, to host some of the largest parties in the mid-Atlantic. www.cherryfund.org

APR 27 - MAY 1

PHURFEST 2017 PHOENIX, ARIZONA Join the Bears of the West for Phurfest Weekend. Enjoy fun in the sun, a chance to meet new friends, and explore what Phoenix has to offer. Phoenix Phurfest has been around for 12 years. During the past eleven Phurfests, almost 2500 bears and buddies from over 10 countries have enjoyed the warmth and friendliness of our city, thereby, making Phurfest weekend quite popular among the bears. www.phurfest.org

APR 27 - MAY 1

DALLAS PURPLE PARTY 2017 DALLAS, TEXAS Dallas’s award- winning charity dance weekend, The Purple Party, is excited to bring you our biggest and best party yet.

We’re outdoing ourselves this year with the hottest international DJs, famous Texas hospitality, and other developments to continue the evolution of America’s favorite HIV/AIDS dance fundraiser. www.purplefoundation.org

APR 28 - 30

FAMILY WEEKEND IN THE MIDWEST 2017 MADISON, WISCONSIN Family Equality Council’s annual destination event for parents who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ), their children, extended families, prospective families and friends in the Midwest. There will be family activities, fun and programming for all ages. Family Equality Council will provide opportunities to build community among families with parents who are LGBTQ and learn about issues facing our families today. www.familyequality.org

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EVENTS CALENDAR providing the perfect ambience for each and every session and event. www.sleazymadrid.com

relevance, the Festival has grown to become the largest event of its type in the world. www.gaytheatre.ie

MAY 4 - 14 APR 22 - 29

KA BEACH BLAST 2017 PUNTA NIZUC CANCUN, MEXICO The 2017 KA Beach Blast is an all resort takeover of the Club Med Cancun Yucatan.

The event’s goal is to unite members of the LGBTQ community while having the perfect ratio of party to relaxation. The KA Beach Blast will be an all week party with headliner entertainment, live DJ’s, beach parties, and much, much more.

APR 28 - MAY 2

SLEAZY MADRID MADRID, SPAIN With 16 years of experience under its belt the event is prominent in the gay fetish circuit. Madrid´s gay scene will be inundated with visitors come to take part in the event. The participating bars, clubs, discos, shops, saunas, hostels and hotels will be organizing a wide variety of activities and parties with a fetish theme. Well known DJ´s and producers consolidate the event

APR 28 - 30

LONDON LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL LONDON, ONTARIO, CANADA The London Lesbian Film Festival is a celebratory gathering at which we project our images, challenge our politics, and reflect upon our lives. The festival aims to portray the richness and diversity of lesbian experiences and to strengthen our communities. www.llff.ca

MASPALOMAS PRIDE MASPALOMAS GRAND CANARY ISLAND 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

MAY 1 - 14

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

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 MODERNISM WEEK PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND MODERNISM WEEK PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND RED DRESS/DRESS RED PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND RED DRESS/DRESS RED PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

APRIL 2017 53

PHOTO REWIND A VERY SORDID WEDDING PREMIERE PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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APRIL 2017 55

THE 24TH ANNUAL

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