The Standard Magazine

AUGUST, 2017 VOLUME 5 ISSUE 8 THESTANDARDPS.COM

THE MUSIC ISSUE NEW WAVE The Next Generation of Musicians to Watch READY TO COSPLAY? Comic Con Palm Springs ROMPIN’ & ROLLIN’ The Romp Returns to Big Bear

CONTENTS VOLUME 5, ISSUE 8

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TONY BANKS NEW SINGLE “STATIC” PAGE 13

Volume 5 Issue 8 COVER A NEW WAVE OF MUSIC ARTISTS FEATURE PRODUCERS NILE RODGERS & TONY MORAN JOIN FORCES BOOK REVIEW FREDDY MERCURY-SOMEBODY TO LOVE PSP FOCUS PALM SPRINGS COMIC CON TRAVEL THE ROMP RETURNS TO BIG BEAR

AUGUST 2017 3

COMMENTARY RESISTANCE! The Standard Magazine PO Box 2074, Palm Springs, CA 92263 760.831.4869 Nino Eilets Publisher Luciano McNulty Editor Maya Kalabic Art Director It’s hard to believe it’s been nine months since a then-candidate Trump unfurled an upside-down rainbow flag at a campaign rally just days before the 2016 Presidential Election - declaring promises to be a friend and an ally to the LGBT community if elected.

In the weeks and months since, to almost no one’s surprise, it’s crystal clear that those were empty promises, a candidate-turned-president’s pandering falsities for the sake of appearing socially progressively.

From the beginning of this administration, we’ve seen tweets, statements, and even policies based on the politics of fear and ignorance, including those targeting the LGBTQ community. From selecting notoriously anti-LGBTQ Mike Pence as Vice Presidents, to withdrawing Title IX guidance for transgender students in schools, we’ve been primed for more setbacks against our community. For the first time since 2008, the White House did not release an official proclamation recognizing June as National Pride Month. And in July, the President struck again, declaring a ban on transgender troops serving in the military, a year after the Pentagon reversed the ban. On a broader scale, the health of the world, our family, friends, and neighbors, LGBTQ or not, are facing a tremendous threat with the never-ending campaign to repeal the Affordable Care Act, and this administration’s refusal to recognize sciencebased evidence about climate change.

The culture of fear, hate, and fake news has trickled down to the masses with near daily news of attacks on mosques, synagogues, and LGBT centers. Hate speech and rhetoric has been normalized by our President in a way I’ve never seen or experienced in my thirty years. And while it seems like everyday there’s something new we have to resist or fight back against, I look to my communities -- the LGBTQ community, the immigrant and Latino community, communities filled with persistent women -- to regain and boost the energy and strength needed to build a different future. One in which our elected officials rise above the worst aspects of humanity, in an effort to build upon the best; where our systems and models celebrate inclusion and center the voices of those most marginalized and most impacted by legislation and policies. A future in which it doesn’t matter who holds the office of the presidency, for our society will reject any speech or policy that is based on lies, hate, or ignorance. Until then, you can find me carrying waving my rainbow flag - right side up, and right in their face.

PHOTOGRAPHER David A. Lee CONTRIBUTORS Chris Astrala, Bob Bogard, Dann Foley, Chris Heritage, Jill Langham, Lee Lynch, James Murphy, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Pinkie Meringue Shimmer, Adam Sinicki, Alexis Ortega & Martha Tang 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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Alexis Ortega Guest Commentator

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COVER

A NEW WAVE OF LGBT MUSICAL ARTISTS

BY CHRIS ASTRALA

Big names like Elton John, RuPaul, The Village People, Michael Stipe, Sylvester, Ricky Martin, Boy George, Melissa Etheridge, Andy Bell just a small handful of well-known gay music artists who have entertained us throughout the years.

Many brilliant but lesser known talents are coming up through the ranks and giving their style and sound to the music scene. Contemporary gay artists, underground gems, newer superstars on the scene and some older gay musicians finally getting the recognition they deserve. And though this by no means is a comprehensive list but just a sprinkling of these talented up and comers.

SISTER SCISSOR High camp and indie rock combine with Jake Shears and Ana Matronic’s band of largely queer musicians. The gang might be best known for their sillier songs (“Let’s Have a Kiki” and “Filthy / Gorgeous” come to mind) but their more contemplative songs are just as amazing.

HANNAH THOMAS Hannah Thomas is bringing her own style of music to the roots rock world with a voice reminiscent of young Bonnie Raitt, grit and bravado that draws comparisons to Melissa Etheridge. Thomas has been playing professionally for more than a decade, touring with Indigo Girls and opening for or sharing the stage with Pat Benatar, Melissa Etheridge, Kristian Bush (of Sugarland), Terri Clark, Lydia Loveless, Chely Wright to name a few.

STEVE GRAND Widely hailed as the first openly gay country singer (sorry Ty Herndon, you just missed it), Steve Grand is as much of a YouTube sensation as he is a singer. Not that that’s a bad thing, but with only a few singles out, it’s hard to tell if this internet celebrity will be able to keep up with all the speculation.

M LAMAR This neo-classical artist uses gothic operatic drama to explore race and sexuality in American culture. With his strong counter-tenor vocals, M Lamar continues in the queer tradition of Klaus Nomi. Lamar clearly has the brains to back

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SISTER SCISSOR, HAN

up his talent and was engaged in extended conversation with feminist cultural scholar bell hooks. Fun fact: He’s also Laverne Cox’s twin brother!

FISCHESPOONER The original art-stars of the Electroclash scene, Fischerspooner’s musical endeavors started more as ambient music intended for experimental fashion shows but later evolved into fully realized hypnotic Kraftwerk-inspired psychedelic synth-pop. Three albums later, the duo (made up of Casey Spooner and Warren Fischer) are now working on releasing look books of some of their more outrageous visual stylings which were created concurrently with their music.

JONTE MOANING Although better known as a choreographer for Beyonce, Jonte’ has released his fair share of mix tapes and pop songs. With a seemingly endless parade of high-energy international shows, Jonte’s endeavors in hip-hop and pop are pure fun. Never attempt his high kicks in the safety of your own home.

BIG DIPPER Big Dipper is thick, hairy, and completely unashamed of his body. And why shouldn’t he be? With underground rap songs about the joys of sexual promiscuity, Big Dipper is the poster child for Baltimore Bear culture. Veering towards the silly instead of the expressive, Dipper’s ass-shaking production has made him a contemporary club kid icon.

FISCHESPOONER, JON

NNAH THOMAS, STEVE GRAND, M LAMAR

NTE MOANING, BIG DIPPER, AB SOTO, KEVIN JZ PRODIGY

AB SOTO AB Soto is a queer artist and musician whose work complicates the boundaries of fashion, performance and identity. Having grown up as a Latin boy in East Los Angeles, Soto’s music is heavily informed by both his ties to Mexican culture and his background in dance and fashion design. He plays around with styles of music that, in the past have been mainly for straight people or a specific race – whether it’s rap, whether it’s house, whether it’s salsa.

KEVIN JZ PRODIGY Ballroom personality Kevin JZ Prodigy is only now beginning to be recognized by music journalists for his long list of contributions to

the scene. His energetic brand of vocal stylings is never without growls, screams, rolled r’s, obscure movie quotes, and devastating commentary in the form of catchy rhyme schemes. We wouldn’t be surprised to see Prodigy featured on more mainstream EDM in the future.

FRANK OCEAN Ok, we’re cheating on this one a bit. Frank Ocean is bi, not gay, but his presence as an LGBT artist is too important to ignore.

As a member of Odd Future, Ocean’s coming out was seen as a groundbreaking triumph for a mainstream artist. His stylish and honest solo music compliments his trailblazing persona. And yes, we were definitely rooting for him in his feud against Chris Brown.

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COVER JOEL GIBB Continuing in the tradition of queer new wave artists like Pete Burns or Morrissey, The Hidden Cameras (led by Joel Gibb) make an interesting blend of moody synth-pop and anti-folk. Jokingly calling their songs “gay church folk music,” their live shows are of particular note for including go-go dancers in balaclavas directly adjacent to full choirs and string sections.

JOEL GIBB, ROD THOMAS

ROD THOMAS Rod Thomas’ accessible combination of disco, house, and heartfelt pop has impressed the legendary Elton John, with whom he sang a catchy single. Emotional, earnest, and perhaps a little bit corny, Bright Light Bright Light (the singer’s repetitive stage name) has been steadily releasing albums since 2009, with bigger success in the UK than over on this side of the pond.

KAZAKY With military precision, Kazaky executes complicated dance numbers in the highest of high heels, all the while showing off their impeccable washboard abs. Their music is an idiosyncratic kind of Eastern European dance-pop with half-ironic sci-fi shades of the early 2000’s electro clash scene; all their lyrics delivered in an almost eerie deadpan whisper.

KAZAKY

JAMIE STEWART Favorably compared to Robert Smith, Jamie Stewart’s lyrics have been praised for their combination of poeticism and violence.

Extrapolations of the (post-) punk legacy of artists like Annie Lennox, Devo, and Bauhaus, Stewart’s works within the electro-punk genre are met with almost universal critical approval.

NICO MUHLY At the forefront of contemporary classical music, Nico Muhly is the widely acclaimed Phillip Glass collaborator with his own impressive discography of choral arrangements, operas, movie scores (including The Reader and Kill Your Darlings), and ensembles.

Muhly’s best-known opera, Two Boys, tells the controversial true tale of a homoerotic online friendship which eventually resulted in murder.

So take a listen, who knows you might find yourself getting into some of these new sounds. As mentioned this is just a short list of the many newer artists out there who are waiting for their big break.

Let us know what you think and if you know of an act that should be on this list.

JAMIE STEWART, NICO MUHLY

AUGUST 2017 9

FEATURE

NILE RODGERS AND TONY MORAN COLLABORATE ON THE #1 DANCE SONG IN THE US

BY JEFF DORTA

“My Fire” featuring Kimberly Davis, the first collaboration between Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Nile Rodgers and twotime Grammy nominated music producer Tony Moran nabbed the #1 spot on the Billboard Club Play Chart last week. The song jumps over Ed Sheeran’s “Castle On The Hill” and takes the spot previously held by Katie Perry’s “Swish Swish” featuring Nicki Minaj.

“Thank you to everyone for making us believe that a small independent label can still matter,” said an exuberant Tony Moran upon hearing the news. His label, Mr. Tanman Music, produced the record.

“It’s been an incredible experience from beginning to end. Who would have thought we’d discover the next Whitney Houston in Kimberly Davis?

She truly is a wonder. Who’d have thought we’d get the legendary Nile Rodgers to play on this track for us? Or that we’d receive 15 remixes from some of the top talent on the planet? The extraordinary remixes from these DJs and producers enabled us to reach every dancer in every club and made ‘My Fire’ an outstanding dance floor scorcher.”

“My Fire” featuring Kimberly Davis is a song about personal empowerment. It’s meant to remind music fans that even on the darkest of days, there is a fire inside each of us that will light a path ahead to the place we’re meant to be. It merges elements from Club, Disco and Nile Rodgers’ own unique brand of Funk for a next generation fusion of Electronic Music meets Soul.

“The song makes people feel good, as though they’re in the middle of a party, letting go and having fun,” explains Kimberly Davis. “My Fire” is Ms. Davis’ third Billboard-charted single with writer Mike Greenly. Their first dance single, “Get Up” — co-written with composer, Jim Papoulis — reached #12 on the Billboard dance chart in early 2010. Their next, “With You,” also written with Papoulis, climbed to the #4 spot in the spring of 2014.

While on tour with CHIC, the legendary 70’s Disco band founded

by Nile Rodgers and bassist Bernard Edwards, Kimberly played a rough cut of “My Fire” for Rodgers. To her surprise, Rodgers asked if he could be a part of the song. “Of course, I said yes,” laughs Kimberly. “Not only is he my boss but he’s also Nile Rodgers! No sane music artist would deny Nile being a part of their project.”

She went to Moran with Rodgers’ request and he shared her

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enthusiasm. “Nile is a true inspiration to the world in his ability to create and shape musical genres,” says Tony. “It was a thrill to work with him in the booth.”

The album draws inspiration from Moran’s 30 years in dance music. It includes many amazing collaborators including songwriters Mike Greenly, Nicki Richards, Matt Zarley, Phil McKenna, and former American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi.

“Collaborating with talented artists is the fire that drives me to continue my own artistry,” says Moran.

The fire that drives Davis is the rush she feels when connecting with an audience. “It is pure exhilaration,” she declares.

“Hearing my words brought musically to life by supremely talented artists like Kimberly and masters like Nile Rodgers and Tony Moran is the fire that drives me,” adds Mike Greenly. “Reaching #1 inspires me to do it all over again!”

Nile Rodgers and Tony Moran’s “My Fire” featuring Kimberly Davis is being released globally through Mr. Tan Man Music and is available on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon as well as all other online retail outlets. Its music video is available on YouTube.

FOLLOW TONY: TWITTER: moranmusic FACEBOOK: DJTONYMORAN SOUNDCLOUD: dancemusicprod FOLLOW KIMBERLY DAVIS: TWITTER: itsmekimdavis INSTAGRAM: KMAYBABY / FACEBOOK: Kimberly.Davis.79462 WEBSITE: Kimberlydavisshesangz.com FOLLOW NILE RODGERS: / TWITTER: nilerodgers FACEBOOK: NileRodgersOfficial FOLLOW MIKE GREENLY: / TWITTER: MIKEGREENLY FACEBOOK: MIKEGREENLY.

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FEATURE

TONY BANKS ELIMINATES THE CLING WITH HOT NEW SINGLE, “STATIC” This week, Music Bear Tony Banks’ is releasing “Static,” the first single from his upcoming album, Yes, Homo. The track can be summarized as funky hip-hop with a message. “In relationships you must have the wisdom to know when enough is enough,” explains the artist who describes himself as a gay, black man with the fun of Missy Elliot, the swag of LL Cool J and the dance moves of Heavy D. “You gotta have the courage to make change and the strength to stand up on your own two feet and press forward. Life is too short to allow someone else’s self-destruction to bring you down.” Along with the track, Music Bear Tony Banks is releasing a music video for “Static” that stars Music Bear and Catalin Constantine as his boyfriend and features animation by Wikistylista. Music Bear Tony Banks’ “Static” is available at www.musicbearonline.com.

“Who has time to watch someone they love not love themselves,” wonders Music Bear Tony Banks from his Brooklyn home. He knows a thing or two about the difficulties of breaking-up. He and his ex are in the midst of divorce, although their separation is not due to the level of destruction Music Bear raps about in “Static.” “Our relationship may have grown stale and staticky, to the point where we had to go our own ways, but we remain friends and that’s important,” he says.

“We still support and want the best for one another.”

Not all of the songs Music Bear writes are about his life. “I’m often inspired by people around me, and now and then, I’ll use their lives as subjects for songs. For me, the power of music is about writing something I know someone out there needs to hear or feel me say.”

Still, he tries to stay true to who he is as a man and an artist.

You’ll rarely, if ever, hear Music Bear Tony Banks rhyming about “Popping Bottles” (he barely drinks) or “Fighting Bitches” (not his style). In his upcoming album, “Yes Homo,” he tackles issues like love, lust, partying, and the state of hip-hop and police brutality. It’s meant to be a full depiction of what it means to be a black, gay, male, hip-hop artist in 2017.

“Static is one of the first tracks where I looked at things from beyond a sex or love angle and got a little more into the dirt and nitty

gritty,” he explains. “Cause at the end of the day, we can’t ignore that when Cupid strikes, he leaves an arrow in our heart that can hurt.”

Music Bear Tony Banks was born in Brooklyn in the early 80’s.

He grew up during the golden era of hip-hop. Early on in his musical journey, he wanted to be singer. He sang in church and wrote R&B songs and poetry. As he matured, he considered a career behind the scenes but life took its course and he found himself back in hip-hop, as an artist.

He believes hip-hop is love. It’s soulful, empowering, fun, beautiful and caring. The music industry, however, is another monster all together. “The industry turns hip-hop into a misogynistic, homophobic creature that sells its soul for the promise of money, cars and hoes,” he says. “It then turns the people in it into that same image. Remember, hate is a learned behavior. No one is born homophobic but when hip-hop spreads that message to millions of people, for decades, it catches on and it’s hard to break away from.”

The LGBT community is not much better, he contends. “As a black, gay man of size, I sometimes feel ostracized from my gay brothers and sisters. I used to think that if I were a different type of gay, a more stereotypical skinny boy and fancy dresser, I would have it easier in the community.”

“But I’ve come to learn that being different isn’t always a bad thing,” says Music Bear Tony Banks. “What I hope people who listen to my music and watch my videos take from me as an artist is: Don’t be afraid. Embrace something different every once in a while.

Break from monotony. Cut the static. You might just enjoy it! In fact, I know you will.”

Music Bear Tony Banks’ new single, “Static,” is available at www.musicbearonline.com.

Follow: Facebook @ MusicBearTonyBanks Instagram @ musicbeartonyb Twitter: @musicbeartonyb

AUGUST 2017 13

Sing with US PalM SPrinGS Gay Men’S ChOrUS™

0-9:00 p.m.

OPen rehearSalS: Tuesdays, august 15 and 22 7:0 aUdiTiOnS: Tuesday, august 29 7:00 p.m.

Mizell Senior Center – 480 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs

artistic director: douglas C. Wilson 14 THESTANDARDPS.COM

PSGMC.COM

accompanist: Joel Baker

FEATURE

HERCULES & LOVE AFFAIR RELEASE “OMNION”

BY MARTHA TANG

Having set the pace with the recent 80’s electro-house single ‘Controller’ ft. Farris Badwan, Hercules & Love Affair switch down a gear on their new single release “Omnion” ft. Sharon Van Etten – out now – also the title track of the act’s forthcoming fourth studio album, scheduled for release on September 1st via Big Beat Records.

“Omnion” is a triumphant sliver of tuneful electronica, premiering this morning on Pitchfork.

Available for streaming and downloading now, “Omnion” features sublime vocals from New York singer-songwriter Sharon Van Etten and is, according to Hercules front man Andy Butler, an ode to “a childlike dialogue with a higher entity voiced through the filter of a broken adult male.” The pair met when Butler remixed Van Etten’s ‘Not Myself,’ her heart wrenching response to the Orlando Pulse Club massacre.

Omnion’s credo – a message of faith and tolerance as a response to our troubling times – was one that resonated strongly with Van Etten: “This song is so vulnerable, but strong. Coming to terms with identity and finding community... It’s a very important

time to share in that sentiment. I really appreciate Andy reaching out to collaborate. His heart beats in his songs.”

“Sometimes songs are born out of an intense moment that has nothing to do with club music,” explains Butler, “I’m not just a ‘head’ (read techno-head, house-head, disco-head)…. I’ve always been just as touched by, say, Sinead O’Connor accompanied only by a guitar, singing an intensely spirited message.”

Helping Butler realize this new dynamic on Omnion is the world class cast of singers including Badwan, Van Etten, the Arab World’s most influential indie band Mashrou’ Leila, Icelandic sister act Sísý Ey, frequent collaborators Rouge Mary and Gustaph, and Butler himself on the intensely personal electro ballad “Fools Wear Crowns.”

Hercules are taking their visually spectacular new stage show – “A Feast for the Eyes” Creative Review – to venues and festivals throughout the summer, with an autumn headline tour to be announced soon.

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INDESIGN MUSIC AND THE HOME

BY DANN FOLEY

HOME THEATRE BY DANN INC.

MUSIC ROOM BY DANN INC.

As The Standard celebrates music in this issue, it has given me pause to contemplate the effect music has on the home. Just as an orchestra or group comes together to create soothing/inspiring sound, a great design does the same.

whole-house music system. Until now it was a laborious and expensive proposition to wire a home for a sound system. Though there are many types of wireless systems on the market, my personal favorite is, SONOS. • Totally Wireless speakers for any/all the rooms of your home!

• Connects to your home’s WiFi, so no set up!

• A single APP controls all the rooms so that you don’t have to be in the same room to adjust the volume or change music.

• It is not Bluetooth so you won’t get those annoying interruptions from your phone/network.

• Find the system at WWW.SONOS.COM

I often say to my clients, “I create interiors to speak to each of the senses.” This includes sight, touch, scent and sound. When one of my clients walks into their finished space for the first time I make sure that the setting is perfect. The rooms are complete, the candles lit, the flowers arranged, the lighting perfect and beautiful music in the background…and yes we have champagne on ice and nibbles to complete the unveiling.

I know that I have been very fortunate, even lucky in my career. I have amazing clients with beautiful homes that we, at Dann Inc. turn into showplaces of beauty and comfort. Over years I have created my share of actual music rooms in clients homes. Adding the right sound system to any home is of paramount importance, it is as important as the lighting. I am fond of saying, “You can have all the beautiful things money can buy but, if the aren’t properly lit then they won’t ever really shine.” The same can be said for music. Whether you are hosting friends or just home alone after a long day, music sets the mood. It can calm the savage beast or create the background to a memorable event.

So how do you go about bringing more & better music into your home? If you are lucky enough to be a musician or happen to live with one, you already know how fulfilling live music can be in a home. And congratulations! For those of us not so blessed, I have some suggestions…

With today’s technology it has never been easier to have a

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Another choice for ease and simplicity is the “home assistant” available from Google (Google Home) and Amazon (Alexa).

• Both are totally wireless and voice activated.

• Uses immersive 360 degree “omni-directional audio” to fill your space with music.

• Also answers questions, controls lights, TV, switches and more.

• Though both have unique features to each system, they work in virtually the same way.

• Both systems are compatible with SONOS for whole-house capability. You will want to check which SONOS system you have first to ensure it has all the latest syncing abilities.

• Find Alexa at, www.amazon.com • Find Google Home at, www.madeby.google.com We can also talk about creating an environment in your home for music. Many clients over the years have asked me to create personal

MEDIA ROOM BY DANN INC.

GUITAR HAND HOOK BY GUITAR CENTER

MUSICAL LIVING ROOM BY DANN INC.

music rooms for their own enjoyment. The styles of the rooms vary greatly but the main point is getting the acoustics just right.

Sound travels.

• If your goal is to create a room to make or listen to music you will want to ensure that you don’t rattle the house and have your neighbors complaining. A double layer of drywall does wonders to insulate sound.

• Don’t forget the ceiling when insulating. Sound travels through ceilings as easily as walls.

• When trying to sound proof space the door(s) is as important as any other surface. I line the room side of the door with lead then veneer it with wood and add moldings to mask the material. This is a great treatment for theater rooms with surround sound as well.

Decorating with musical instruments and elements is a classic approach to rooms dedicated to music. Most recently I completed a

ALEXA

historic home renovation and decoration in Charleston, SC. The husband is a music lover and musician we decided to forego the traditional living room for what we now call the music room. Though the room is for gathering and relaxing with guests, the focus of the room is the baby grand piano where the owner loves to perform.

In the same house, for the owners more personal music “play time”, we chose the media room to display both his guitars (hand wall hooks at (www.guitarcenter.com) and a few of his collection of beloved album covers. They framed covers create and interesting grid over the mantle piece and update the traditional over-mantel motif of oil paintings. The “hand” hooks make his guitars sculpture for the walls.

What I wish for all of you is a home filled with comfort, laughter, love and MUSIC! Live Well.

AUGUST 2017 17

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FEATURE

EDM MUSIC FESTIVALS SoCal STYLE Southern California has always maintained a raging rave scene, but with the mainstream rise in dance music, Southern California has become a hotbed for big-ticket concerts. From summer music festivals like HARD Summer to New Year’s Eve shindigs, here’s everything you need to know about EDM music festivals for the dance music enthusiast.

HARD SUMMER Locally born EDM juggernaut Hard Summer makes its way back to Southern California for its eponymous annual summer music fest. For two days, dance music and hip-hop acts will traverse four outdoor stages for the raving pleasure of Southern California’s danciest. DJ Snake, a DJ set from Justice, Rae Sremmurd, Zeds Dead, Bassnectar, Migos and Dog Blood—that’s Skrillex and Boys Noize—top this year’s lineup, along with a special set from Snoop Dogg, who will perform 1993’s Doggystyle in full. www.hardfest.com NOCTURNAL WONDERLAND While you won’t find much Alice in the Wonderland series of festivals, you will find a whimsical, carnival-like atmosphere drenched in Day-Glo and pulsating lasers. The multiple stages at Glen Helen Regional Park are musical platforms just as much as they’re art installations, with names like the Upside-Down Room and the Temple of Om. This year’s lineup includes the likes of Dillon Francis, Mija, Excision, DJ Mustard and more. www.nocturnalwonderland.com ESCAPE: PSYCHO CIRCUS The San Bernardino rave scene injects itself with a bit of Halloween flair at this annual music fest. Insomniac Events—the group behind EDC and the Wonderland series—is setting up four stages at the NOS Events Center; past headliners include Tiësto, Kaskade, Four Tet and more.

Explore the grounds to find mazes alongside ominous artwork and freak show performers. www.escapehalloween.com DREAMSTATE This fledgling fest from industry titans Insomniac tapped Paul van Dyk and Paul Oakenfold for its inaugural celebration of trance. For this year’s fest, van Dyk and a slew of others have carried over from the 2015 fest alongside the likes of Armin van Buuren. www.dreamstateusa.com

NOCTURNAL WONDERLAND

whimsical, carnival-like atmosphere to this trance-heavy festival. The dreamy, multi-stage experience has included the likes of Tiesto, Hardwell and Dillon Francis in the past. www.socal.beyondwonderland.com LIGHTNING IN A BOTTLE You’ll need to trek up to the Central Coast for this annual event, but where else can you find a sustainable, vegetarian festival dedicated to equal parts music, food, art, yoga and wellness? Lightning in a Bottle has stepped up its musical lineup in recent years, with Chet Faker, Jamie xx and Grimes topping past bills. Expect to do some serious soul-searching during this six-day retreat, all while immersing yourself in everything from a speaker series at the Lucent Temple of Consciousness to the old timey Grand Artique trading post. www.lightninginabottle.org COUNTDOWN Ring in the New Year with confetti, pyro and 30,000 of your closest friends. Nearly 30 dance acts invade San Bernardino’s NOS Events Center for this year-end fest, which has now expanded to two nights. This year’s lineup is yet to come out, but past years’ toasts to the new year included the likes of Kaskade and DJ Snake. www.countdownnye.com For more info and details check out the event websites

BEYOND WONDERLAND This springtime spin-off in Insomniac’s Wonderland series takes its

Thanks to TimeOut.com for their contribution to this article.

AUGUST 2017 19

LIFESTYLE

MUSIC MAKES IT TASTE BETTER

BY JIM MURPHY

When people think about Palm Springs, they usually think of the mid-century modern architecture, the desert heat, the gay resorts and nightlife or the casinos to gamble at. But did you know Palm Springs has quite a vibrant jazz (and music) community to take in and enjoy? Check it out!

The Palm Springs nightlife is fun and exciting with fabulous restaurants, great nightclubs, parties, late-night happy hours and more. If you enjoy spending your evening wrapped in live jazz music, we’ve got a few suggestions for you.

How about a “jazz-eatery” to get you started? Steeped in the world of jazz, Three Sixty North Bar & Grill is family owned, and it’s a destination not to be missed. Three Sixty’s dedication to jazz shows in both its warm decor and its rotating array of nightly jazz singers and ensembles. Enjoy the elegantly casual ambiance as you sip drinks or savor the fare that features many locally sourced and organic ingredients.

For something a bit different - daytime jazz music - check out Woody’s Palm House Weekend Jazz Brunch, where a delectable menu of crepes, quiches, benedicts, waffles and more are always served with a side of jazz. Woody’s After Dark features jazz artists on Tuesday and Friday nights, with R&B, Blues and Motown the rest of the week. Woody’s is also open for lunch, happy hour and dinner and is known for its gourmet burgers, steaks and chops.

Experience the place locals call “home” at the Backstreet Bistro, where great Tuscan-inspired food and a charming, homey

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atmosphere meet live jazz music every Tuesday and Saturday night.

Sip your specialty cocktail on the outdoor patio while you overlook the breathtaking vistas of the San Jacinto Mountains. You’ll want to stay for the wide selection of “rustic Italian cuisine and family recipes” on the dinner menu as you spend a relaxing evening under the stars. The Backstreet Bistro is also open for breakfast and lunch and offers a special “Get Fit” menu as part of the Fit In 42 Program.

For an evening of elegance, Melvyn’s Restaurant is unparalleled in food, ambiance and history; you’ll be walking in the footsteps of uncountable notables including Spencer Tracy, Salvador Dali and Howard Hughes. Located in the Ingleside Inn luxury resort, a Palm Springs Historic Landmark, this former “by invitation only” private estate includes the renowned Melvyn’s, which is open for lunch, dinner and brunch. From comfort food to classic fare to house specialties you won’t soon forget, Melvyn’s is a dining experience like no other. You can even enjoy “the lost art of tableside cooking” for certain gourmet dinner and dessert selections, and every meal is individually prepared.

And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the upcoming and highly anticipated Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival November 2-5, 2017!

Shifting tempo now, or a little tempo rubato, albeit not jazz, visitors to Palm Springs should no overlook The McCallum Theatre.

The McCallum is a well-known performing arts center bringing culture and arts entertainment to Palm Desert. The venue opened in 1988 after more than 10 years of fundraising and planning. The popular musician and radio and television personality Fred Waring donated performances to raise the initial funding. Later financial contributions came from Terry Hahn and Bob Hope. Gerald Ford was an early member of the theater’s board of directors.

The theater opened with a bang - broadcast on an NBC television special. Performers that night included Lucille Ball, the Alvin Ailey dancers and Sarah Brightman. Ronald and Nancy Reagan, Gerald and Betty Ford, Walter and Leonore Annenberg were among the many guests attending the opening night tribute to Bob Hope.

Based on ticket sales, the McCallum Theater is among the top 50 performing arts theaters in the world. This is not surprising as there is a show almost every night of the season and most sell-out. The 20162017 season runs through May and features, Johnny Mathis, LAfavorite Super Diamond, Rick Springfield, Itzhak Perlman, The Ten Tenors among other talented performers. Acts include ballets, plays, concerts, comedy shows, tributes, and other fun-filled artistic genres.

The theater also has an extensive education program, partnering with local schools to offer an inquiry-based learning approach. Field trips are free to students and teachers. The annual Open Call event, which is a talent competition with cash prizes and awards, is always a favorite among audiences.

Be sure to check out what the McCallum Theater has to offer.

There is something for everyone.

WHERE TO STAY? ModMansions offers the best Palm Springs Rentals available and all of our properties have been remodeled for today’s traveler. We are not a property manager of these beautiful and luxurious estates ‌ We are the Owners! So 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 or check us out at www.modmansions.com

AUGUST 2017 21

STAGE

PALM CANYON THEATRE, IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR

Dr. William “Bill” Layne, his wife Sylvia, his son, J.W., and other members of their family submitted the winning proposal to the City of Palm Springs for how to repurpose the historic Frances S. Stevens School with a cultural, nonprofit organization. After extensive tenant renovations, the Palm Canyon Theatre opened its doors in September 1997 with Romberg and Hammerstein’s operetta “A Desert Song.”

Now in its 21st season, The Palm Canyon Theatre continues to bring quality performances to the desert.

The Palm Canyon Theatre incorporates education into every production, hiring professionals as needed to teach aspiring performers and technical crews specialized skills. PCT has a small part-time staff and about 600 volunteers, which include on-stage and off-stage talent. The regional repertory theatre opens casting calls several times a year to people of all experience levels. In designing the season’s lineup, the PCT team is thoughtful to ensure that parts for actors of various ages are available throughout the season. For those not looking for a role on center stage, PCT is always looking for volunteers of all skill levels and abilities for a variety of responsibilities behind the scenes including ushers, costumes, painting, set building, lighting and more.

PCT’s casts and technical crews earn honors each year for the theater’s well-rounded line-up. In 2014, Dr. Layne received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Desert Theatre League. In 2015, the Layne Family was honored with the 382nd star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars, placed directly in front of the theater.

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The regular main stage season runs about 12 musicals and classic productions from September to May, with a summer performance usually in July. PCT holds six weeks of children’s theater camp in June and July, which culminates with a full-stage production of about 70100 participants. The theatre also hosts a limited number of events for other organizations throughout the year.

2017-2018 SEASON “Broadway” and “Classic” ticket packages are now on sale for shows slated during the Palm Canyon Theatre’s 21th season. The Palm Canyon Theatre is the city’s oldest source of live theatrical entertainment running Broadway favorites and classic stage productions from September to July.

BROADWAY SERIES The King and I, September 22-October 1 Priscilla Queen of the Desert, October 27-November 12 Mame, December 1-17 Chicago, January 19-February 11 Sister Act, March 9-March 25 Damn Yankees, April 6-15 Gypsy, May 11-20 The Wedding Singer, July 6-15 CLASSIC SERIES The Bad Seed, October 12-15 The Important of Being Earnest, February 22-25 Yellow, April 24-26 Sordid Lives, April 28-29 Blithe Spirit, May 24-27

From now until July 31, theatre patrons can choose early bird prices! All eight Broadway shows are on sale for $200 per person, or choose four of the Broadway productions for $115. A package to the Classic Series includes all four shows (with a choice of Yellow or Sordid Lives) for $99. Or, select the “Patrons Choice� package, and choose any 10 shows for $295. Prices will increase by $5-15 on August 1, depending on the package.

The Palm Canyon Theatre is offering several concert shows this season as well as a 2nd Stage production of Shakespeare in Love.

CONCERTS Kismet, December 5-6 Christmas Concert, December 13 Scarlett Pimpernel, January 30-31 Chess, March 13-14 Show times for most productions are Thursdays at 7 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The Palm Canyon Theatre is centrally located in the beautiful Uptown Design District of Palm Springs, 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, at the corner of Alejo and Palm Canyon Drive, across from Koffi Individual tickets ranging from $15-$36 and season packages, ranging from $95-$295 are now available through the box office by calling 760-323-5123.

For complete schedule, show description and times please visit www.palmcanyontheatre.org

AUGUST 2017 23

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BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER Last year was a particularly rough one.

Every time you open a newspaper or turned on the computer or TV, it seemed as though someone – a Hollywood actor, singer, or stage performer you liked – had died. Even now, whether it was six months, a year or, as in “Somebody to Love” by Matt Richards & Mark Langthorne, more than a decade, you still miss them.

Farrokh Bulsara was born in India in the fall of 1946 to Parsee followers of the prophet Zoroaster, facts he tried to hide it as a young man. For reasons he didn’t belabor, Bulsara claimed that he was “Persian” and seldom discussed his relatively privileged childhood. He even changed his name to Freddie.

Known as a shy boy and famously ashamed of his prominent front teeth, Freddie was nevertheless so in love with music that he helped form his first band in 1958, in part to “impress the girls.” As soon as he was old enough, he moved to London, where he became a hanger-on for two popular local bands, one of which eventually hired him as a lead singer. Freddie, say the authors, loved to put on a show.

At around this time, he also fell deeply in love with a woman, though he “was struggling to come to terms with whether he was straight, gay or bisexual.” Indeed, despite social mores and legalities of the time, he was also undoubtedly sleeping with men, but he “had no intention of coming out… even if in truth he had felt able to.”

By mid-1970, Freddie changed his surname, while his latest band changed its name to Queen; both began attracting attention in the U.K. Meanwhile, Mercury fell in love with someone whom he considered his “common-law wife.” She, too, seemed to have no idea that he slept with men, which might not have mattered much anyhow: Mercury had led a “hedonistic” life for years and that was just Freddie being Freddie.

But then, possibly some time in 1982, he was infected with the HIV virus…

At nearly 400 pages, sans notes, “Somebody to Love” is one of those books that might have been enhanced by being shortened by a third.

Authors Matt Richards & Mark Langthorne did an exhaustive job with the biography of Queen front man, Freddie Mercury, but that’s not all: this is also a surprising biography of the AIDS epidemic, beginning more than a century ago. That’s often imagined, since exact circumstances are unknown but, while it makes for a fascinating

tale, it stretches too slowly, gets too breathy, and loses its punch. Even Mercury’s career seemed a mess here; readers get names and dates in a bounce-around narrative on a story-loop.

There’s merit in this book – early sections on the beginning of AIDS and the beginning and end of Mercury’s life are all stellar – but much of the middle part is pretty ho-hum. In the end, for fans, ‘Somebody to Love” may still be worth a try. Others may find this book to be a rough one.

“Somebody to Love: The Life, Death and Legacy of Freddie Mercury” by Matt Richards & Mark Langthorne c.2016, Weldon Owen / $24.95 / $33.95 Canada 440 pages

AUGUST 2017 25

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FEATURE

ON THE ROCKS WITH ALEXANDER

The hilarious Alexander Rodriguez serves up weekly entertainment chat with big-name guests from classic to current Hollywood, reality TV, pop culture and music on national syndicates meshing celebs from all walks of life to have a good time and a cocktail. His show breaks down the barriers and ensures everyone regardless of age; orientation or gender has a good time!

On The Rocks With Alexander, broadcast live from famed Sunset Gower Studios in the heart of Hollywood, is heard nationally from 7 – 8:30 pm PST Tuesdays on iHeartRadio & Universal Broadcasting Network. Listeners never know who they are going to find rubbing elbows on this non-stop laugh fest that talks about everything entertainment – without censors or political correctness; after a few drinks you see celebs in a different light, answering questions not usually asked.

Who is Alexander Rodriguez? If Graham Norton, Judy Garland, Ross Mathews, Cheslea Handler and Johnny Carson all had a baby, you would have Alexander Rodriguez – a renaissance man who will never be caught without his signature matching tie, pocket square, vintage shows and a cocktail (or two in hand)!

Alexander is just like his show, not easily placed in a category! He is a Latino who can barely order at a Mexican restaurant, a dandy gay man who hasn’t seen the inside of a gym since PE, and a cabaret singer who sings Britney Spears. In one short year, this non-conforming entertainer has created a truly astounding assortment of guests with a variety you won’t find anywhere else; Academy Award, Golden Globe, Tony, and Emmy Award winners with pop culture headliners – he’s got them all!

Funny people Mindy Sterling and Rita Rudner have joined the

show as well as TV/Film’s Barry Bostwick, Corey Feldman, Star Trek’s Walter Koenig & Armin Shimmerman, and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’s Titus Burgess, to name but a few.

From the LGBT world, On The Rocks With Alexander has welcomed personalities such as Daniel Franzese (Mean Girls, HBO’s Looking), Ross Mathews, Chelsea Handler’s Fortune Feimster, musicians Steve Grand and Ricky Rebel, underwear king Andrew Christian, runway designer Marco Marco, Adult entertainers Brent Corrigan & Topher DiMaggio, The L Word’s Elizabeth Keener, viral video star Randy Rainbow, and cult classic Mommie Dearest author Christian Crawford.

The show’s regular correspondents include People Magazine’s Patrick Gomez, Golden Girls writer Stan Zimmerman, runway model Steven Dehler, and political activist Michael Ferrera. On The Rocks With Alexander also features Alexander’s signature segment: ‘Rapid Fire’ – where celebs answer nonsensical questions without pause for thought.

On the Rocks is broadcast Tuesdays, 7pm EST on Universal Broadcasting Network and iHeartRadio to over 700,000 monthly listeners. http://ubnradio.com/shows/on-the-rocks-with-alexander/ The show is also broadcast simultaneously on Tune In, iTunes, Spreaker, PlayerFM, Satchel, TrueFM, Hillcrest Social, RainbowRadio.

FM, Stitcher and the new streaming network, REVRY. Come and be social with On The Rocks With Alexander, follow their Facebook, Twitter & Instagram and keep up to date with who’s next on the show. Sit down, tune in and enjoy over an hour and a half of pure entertainment!

AUGUST 2017 27

PSP FOCUS

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME COSPLAY?

BY BOB BOGARD

Comic Con Palm Springs will return to the Palm Springs Convention Center August 25-27, 2017 and will feature an array of artists and celebrities, fun programming, colorful costumes, and musical entertainment. Headline celebrities will include Stan Lee, Marvel Comics founder, Rob Lefeild, artist/creator of Deadpool and Cable, and actress Dana Gaier (voice of “Edith” in Despicable Me). The threeday event offers a special VIP dinner with Stan Lee, more than XX merchandise exhibitors and a special concert performance by Lynda Carter. The inaugural event last year attracted more than 15,000 attendees, and this year it is expected to attract nearly 25,000.

and Ben Vereen. Her performance on Saturday, August 26 at 8 p.m. will take place in a custom-built intimate theater in the Palm Springs Convention Center. The 90-minute show will feature her distinctive versions of jazz, blues, country and pop songs from her popular “The Other Side of Trouble” tour. This will be the very first time the actress and singer will attend and perform at any Comic Con event. Tickets for this special performance range from $35 - $85, with the option to purchase VIP Warrior Princess tickets for $400 or the Ultimate Backstage VIP experience, priced at $1,200. All tickets are sold at comicconpalmsprings.com

The event will start on Friday, August 25 with a special ribboncutting ceremony featuring Stan Lee, Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon, and other surprise guests. When the doors officially open, attendees will be able to peruse the aisles of exhibitors who will offer rare and vintage collectable materials and interact with dozens of celebrities and comic artists who will offer autographs and pose for photographs.

“We are so excited that Comic Con Palm Springs continues to grow in popularity,” said Founder/Executive Producer Christopher Spellman. “The fans have made it clear that there is a demand for the kind of Comic Con programming we are able to provide, and that they want it in Palm Springs. We are thrilled to work with comic luminaries like Stan Lee and Rob Lefeild and enable our attendees to have direct contact with these icons during the show.”

One of the highlights of the three-day event will be a onenight-only special musical performance by Lynda Carter, known for her role of Wonder Woman in the 1970’s series. Ms. Carter is an accomplished singer who has performed to rave reviews for sold-out crowds around the world. In addition to her lengthy acting career, Ms. Carter has had the distinction of producing and starring in five highly rated network televisions specials and has appeared onstage with Ray Charles, Tom Jones, Kenny Rogers, Bob Hope, George Benson,

Stan Lee is known to millions as the man whose superheroes propelled Marvel to its preeminent position in the comic book industry. 20 larger-than-life Marvel statues modeled after Stan Lee’s most well known characters will greet event attendees in the convention center lobby. Over the decades, Lee has accumulated a wide variety of vintage comic book related materials. This extensive personal collection of Stan Lee’s Marvel memorabilia will be on display for free to all attendees of the event. Called “Stan

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PSP FOCUS

Lee’s Museum,” the collection showcases hundreds of prized and historic memorabilia, including some of Lee’s personal items and fan favorites including a Wolverine collectible statue, Daredevil’s mask, Thor’s Hammer, a collection of Tony Stark’s Iron Man marks and even original Star Wars artwork (in 1975 George Lucas asked Stan Lee to publish a comic about the Star Wars characters).

The show organizers will stage a Zombie Walk on August 26 at 7pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center, offer a Zombie-themed café, a Zombie Maze (put on by Palm Springs Escape Room), a Zombie late night movie, a Zombie party at the Hard Rock hotel and an appearance by actor Khary Payton, who plays a major role in the popular AMC Zombie-themed television show Walking Dead.

Additional celebrities to appear at the event include Skottie Young (artist and author for Marvel Entertainment), J. Scott Campbell (artist of Danger Girl and Spiderman), Tom Kenny (voice of SpongeBob Squarepants), actor Corbin Bernson (featured in Psych, LA Law, Major League and Star Trek the Next Generation), and many more.

Cosplay will also a huge part of the weekend for many Comic Con Palm Springs attendees, and you can expect to see many people

dressed as Wonder Woman, the Joker, and some of their favorite Game of Thrones characters. Separate costume contests for adults and children will be held on site at the event.

Comic Con Palm Springs tickets are on sale now. A standard Three-Day membership is $60 ($70 at door), and a Three-Day VIP membership is $125 ($135 at door). Attendees may also select to attend individual days. A Friday-only membership is $35 ($45 at door), a Saturday-only membership is $47 ($57 at door), and a Sunday-only membership is $35 ($45 at door). Kids 12 and under free and there are special Heroes memberships for all active military, police, fire, and EMS personnel.

ABOUT COMIC CON PALM SPRINGS Comic Con Palm Springs brings together some of the most passionate and talented people from the world of comic books and entertainment to produce an exciting new show in one of the most famous and fun cities in the world. Comic Con Palm Springs organizers work with top-tier talent and exhibitors to make Comic Con Palm Springs something special for every attendee. For more information, call (760) 359-8372 or go to info@comicconpalmsprings.com.

AUGUST 2017 29

PERSPECTIVE

CAN YOU FEEL THE BEAT?

BY JILL LANGHAM

This month’s focus is “music” to my ears! Sorry, I couldn’t resist.

I love music as much as dance and have had some of the best experiences in my life with music as my backdrop.

I love a variety of music from Big Band era, and the likes of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Louie Armstrong to Bossa Nova, and any Brazilian music, to Rogers and Hammerstein, Barbara Streisand, Julie Andrews, to the greats of the Jazz Era, including Bird & Miles Davis, to Rock and Roll with Yes, Kansas, the Allman Brothers, Elton John, Steely Dan, anything Disco to most all House Music, and as of 2005 all Circuit Music. But, I’m also into New Age and love Buddha Bar and the likes. And so much more.

I only know that I like a certain type of music if I find my body “twerking” to the beat. And anyone who knows me or has seen me knows this is true. The music which is in my soul makes it impossible for me to stand still! One of the places in town where I can’t stand still is at Oscar’s Café & Bar in downtown Palm Springs.

I have been a regular there for almost 4 years and pretty much know everyone who attends their afternoon Sunday Tea Dance. It has become the most well attended, popular “meet and greets” in

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our side of the valley.

Like most things it took some time to get off the ground but about 2 years ago it has become so well known that like the Abbey in WEHO, there’s now a 30-minute line around the block to get in.

Now for me, lines are no big deal. Since Oscar’s is an outdoor venue you get to hear, see and feel the effects of the Disco music blasting from the speakers. You can meet other patrons, make new friends or chat with the ones you came from. But, I use it as an opportunity to start dancing! I mean I’m about to go in to dance to the same music that I’m hearing, so what am I waiting for!

And every Sunday I head to Oscars to get my weekly Dance on. Oscars is my Church and on the rare occasions that I’ve been ill or out of town, I noticed that my spirit was not as high all week long.

Plain and simple, cut and dry.

So, earlier this year in May when the owner informed us that Oscar’s had lost their liquor license, I become depressed. Now I don’t mean clinical depression but more of a spiritual depression.

Let me explain.

The connections that have been formed at Oscars are wide and deep. I know quite a few men who met their current husband or partner at Oscars. We’ve had wedding receptions there. I had my 60th birthday party there. It’s become a community event that is so much more than just a bar.

We have flaggers who entertain us each week, and there is always someone new who wants to try their hand at flagging. We have a resident Drag Queen, who plays to us from the balcony. It’s the epitome of a “REAL” reality show and why no one is down they’re filming us each week is beyond me!

But, it is the community spirit that has evolved from the music that we all grooved to in the 70’s and 80’s that keeps us together.

And I have felt weak the last 2 months since the liquor license debacle and have not been my “bubbly” self. (Of course not having my champagne to drink may be the culprit here!)I have not been enjoying myself as much and feel a loss in my soul.

The core group of Oscar’s lovers continues to show up each week, if only for an hour to keep the connection going. We are

praying that this issue will be resolved once and for all by August 1st, but at this moment there are no guarantees! I just know that it is the music that brought us together and it will be the music which keeps us together as it was in the beginning.

Its the beat, beat, beat of the drum, drum, drum that began in Africa that united man and beast and brings out the animal in us all!

Music does this to us and we are better for it.

Be well!

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 Theta Training and was a Registered Nurse with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from Emory University for 20 years and has experience in Chemical Dependence, Hormones, Individual & Group Therapy.

Email address is jill@jilllangham.com; Facebook account is under Jill Langham. Phone 760-218-1527

AUGUST 2017 31

LEGALLY SPEAKING

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

BY CHRISTOPHER HERITAGE

I have a brief real-life story for you here. Attorneys (in spite of their reputation) are people just like everyone else, and we live ordinary lives with the same joys and challenges that you do. Here is my own tale: I just brought home my little puppy dog – my new love. I’ve put off this event for several years - my workload was too heavy, I had little time off, I was too involved in other activities - but I finally realized I needed to stop denying myself. I needed a bit of family to support and care for, and to build togetherness with a devoted companion.

My pup is an Australian Labradoodle – a delightful mix of Australian shepherd, Labrador retriever and poodle. Adorable, smart and filled with curiosity, he is just 4 months old now, and a perfect example of puppyhood, loves licking and kissing everyone.

Romps around my home and my office at lightning speed. Cries a little when sentenced to his crate for a nap. And he has absolute love in his heart for everyone.

Like every parent of pets, I was concerned about the safety of the little guy. He’s chipped, of course, licensed, and everything else I could think of. I tried to cover all the other bases, too. How would I pay for his care if he was in an accident or had a major medical

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problem? Would puppy health insurance be a good idea? Who could I name to care for him if something happened to me? Even routine doggie care is expensive. Who will pay for it?

I’m investing a huge part of my life in this little guy and he is100% depending on me. There’s a connection that will live on even if one of us is gone. What happens if I go first? I began thinking about pets and people; then their place in families, and then their priorities in the life of society. There is no question that pets are a bedrock of family life. Just like children.

Whether you have children of your own, or a pet that loves you, you are a parent, role model and a protector. You know this, and hopefully will take the necessary steps to make your pet safe and happy. If something happens to you, what have you put in place to protect your pet (or your children)? A Will? A Trust? Or nothing?

You may think that a word with a friend or relative will seal a deal for your pet to be cared for, but it definitely isn’t enough. No matter how close your friend, there is no legal guarantee that Little Squeegee or Big Morty will have a continuing good life. Like all of us, that friend’s circumstances can easily change – marriage or divorce, illness, moving away, or just a simple change of heart.

Most of us say, well, nothing’s going to happen to me right now.

I’m healthy, not planning any road trips or airplane flights, not taking risks or in any danger. I’ll just plan to care for my big boy doggie until his time is up. I’ll be there for him.

But I know from experience this is not a plan that will make my pet’s future secure. Anything can happen to me tomorrow; a car accident, a sudden stroke or a back spasm that takes me to critical care in the hospital. Where does that leave my little guy? If I don’t have a plan, he’s out in the cold (or the heat, midsummer in Palm Springs), and he’s not going to make it.

I have had a Trust and a Will for many years, knowing that these are the best kind of legal documents to protect me and my assets if something happens to me. Now I have reviewed them to see if changes need to be made to protect my new pet, and I have made a few adjustments here and there to be sure that he will be properly cared for if for any reason I can’t do it any more. I have named someone to care for my pup, and also named a back-up caretaker, in case his first one can’t do it. I have set aside a reasonable amount

of funds to pay for the care, so the costs won’t be a burden to the caretaker. I have put in language that requires transfer to a no-kill shelter just in case no caretakers can do their job.

My pup and I are settling into a comfortable routine. He’s in the office in the mornings, often sitting in his chair at the conference table as I meet with clients. He’s listening and learning, and appears to be seriously considering lawyering when he grows up. In the afternoons, he goes home for his nap and quiet time.

I am thrilled and pup dog is joyful at all the attention. It’s a wonderful midsummer night’s dream for us both.

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

AUGUST 2017 33

FITNESS

WHY ARE YOU OVERWEIGHT?

BY ADAM SINICKI

For some people, losing weight seems to be almost impossible.

They do everything right, whether it’s their diet, their exercise or anything else, and yet try as they might, they just can’t shift the pounds.

I’ve encountered people like this and tried to help them out with training programs. At first, I normally assume they’re eating loads of garbage, or they’re just not putting in the time down the gym.

But often this turns out not to be the case and I have to admit – I’m stumped!

Or at least I used to be… More recently, I’ve been discovering all kinds of little things that can contribute to an inability to lose weight and very often one of them turns out to be the culprit.

Here are a few reasons why you may still be overweight…

YOU’RE NOT THAT ACTIVE If you work out five times a week and that’s more than your super-fit colleagues then you might be feeling a little bit cheated by life (and your genes). But dig a little deeper! Being active doesn’t just mean exercising. In fact, exercise is only a very small part of being active!

During a shoulder workout that lasted nearly an hour the other

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night, I managed to burn only 200 calories. Granted it was a very slowpaced workout but the point is that time doesn’t necessarily equate to effort. And even if it was a very intense workout, I’d likely have only burned 500-600 calories maximum (running is a different story).

Either way, this is actually only a fraction more than I would burn when completely sedentary. In other words, being active for one hour out of 24 a few times a week is not going to change your life. It has other benefits yes (including accelerated fat burning for the rest of the day) but you shouldn’t expect the pounds to suddenly fall off once you start doing this.

Someone else I know cycles to and from work – and then works out once a week on top of that. Stop thinking of activity and exercise as ‘binary’. If you want to lose weight then you need to introduce activity throughout the day and you need to start spending more time with an elevated heart rate.

YOUR HORMONES ARE WORKING AGAINST YOU Here’s another problem: your hormones.

A lot of people use their hormones as an excuse when they can’t get into shape while others proclaim that calories-in-calories-out is all that matters.

In reality though, the role of hormones in weight loss is a little more complicated than we often realize and this quite often makes it harder for people to shed any fat.

For instance, if you’re a woman reading this, then there is a one in five chance that you have polycystic ovaries. It’s very possible to have this condition with no symptoms, so you won’t necessarily know about it – but it could be there.

This then means that your body is producing too much testosterone resulting in cysts on your ovaries. More relevant to the current discussion though, it also likely means you’re somewhat resistant to insulin (as with diabetes) which means you probably have heightened levels of it. This means you’ll feel less energetic (thus less inclined to train) and you’ll be more likely to store more fat. Thus weight gain, acne and other symptoms can all occur. Likewise you might suffer from mild hypothyroidism. Or you could simply have a little too much estrogen. Whatever the case, sometimes an inability to lose weight is a sign of an imbalance. If you’re really trying your best and nothing is changing, consider seeing your doctor.

WATER RETENTION Sometimes you can be losing weight and not actually look like you are.

That’s due to a number of factors but one of the biggest culprits is water retention: when you cut your calories down your body starts hanging onto more water and this can leave you look puffy. You’ve replaced subcutaneous fat with subcutaneous fluid!

The solution is to drink a lot more water and to eat a lot more fiber. This will help your body to ‘flush’ fluid out and to keep it moving through your body. Reducing your intake of sodium can also help, as consuming electrolytes also triggers fluid retention. Don’t go overboard with this though; you need those electrolytes!

HIDDEN CALORIES And finally, there’s a good chance that you just haven’t identified the worst culprits in your diet calorie-wise. It’s worth trying to track your diet for a bit just to see where the most calories are coming from and sometimes the results can shock you!

I found out a while ago that some of the restaurants I like eating in are terrible in terms of calories. One of them had numerous meals that were over 1,000 kcal! Likewise, it turns out that you really can’t get away with store-bought pizza (try making your own!) and a lot of coffees contain 100 calories or more (things like cappuccinos as opposed to Americanos).

Often you’ll find that you can cut out some big sources of calories in your diet by identifying just a few regular culprits and eliminating them from your routine!

AUGUST 2017 35

WELLNESS I

WHY BAD SLEEP LEADS TO WEIGHT GAIN

BY ADAM SINICKI

Want to lose weight and improve your physique? Then go to bed! That might sound like a rather conveniently easy piece of advice, but in fact it’s one of the most effective things you can do.

Going to sleep will help you to lose weight in a number of ways and if you’re currently struggling to make any headway with your dieting and exercising then it may in fact be a lack of sleep that’s letting you down.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways that sleep impacts on weight loss or weight gain and at how getting more of it will help you achieve the body you really want.

HOW SLEEP IMPACTS ON WEIGHT LOSS Energy There are numerous mechanisms through which sleep impacts on weight loss. For starters, if you don’t get enough sleep then you will immediately find that you lack energy the next day and that you feel groggy and demotivated. As you might expect, this is hardly conducive to getting a good workout so you can expect any exercise to suffer as a result.

Processes in the Body When you sleep your body gets to work building muscle and burning fat, as well as repairing damaged tissue, fighting infections and cementing memories. Essentially this is like leaving your car in the shop for a tune up; only that tune up actually includes weight loss.

This is controlled by a number of hormones such as growth hormone and testosterone which are at their highest when we sleep or work out. In effect, sleeping has some of the same benefits as exercise when it comes to burning fat and building muscle so it’s paramount you don’t skip it.

Meanwhile, if you’ve done a big workout recently, then there will be lots of damage in your body that needs repairing in the form of micro-tears in the muscles. As such, you will need to sleep in order to recover the muscles and to be able once again to train. Sleep is the best treatment for ‘DOMS’ or ‘Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness’.

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Snacking When you sleep you are in effect fasting. In other words, you’re not eating which means your blood sugar drops and your body is forced to burn fat for basic processes. Moreover, because you’re unconscious you can’t eat, and this in turn means you aren’t gaining more calories as you probably are throughout the course of the day.

If you don’t sleep though, then you’re going to be consciously aware of the fact you haven’t eaten and in turn this will likely make you feel hungry. To cut a long story short, sitting up for hours in the evening means more trips to the kitchen and that increases weight gain.

Stress Levels A lack of sleep can increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Cortisol is associated with weight gain as it encourages lipogenesis – the storage of sugar as fat.

So there you have it. For a whole bunch of reasons, sleep is crucial for weight loss. Get enough of it and your body will burn fat while you sleep and build muscle, then be raring to go the next day. Skip it, and you’ll snack through the night, fail to make the necessary repairs in your body, and then wake up feeling groggy and unmotivated to do anything.

II WELLNESS HEALTHY LIVING COMMUNITY EDUCATION SPONSORED BY EISENHOWER MEDICAL CENTER Quit Smoking Now! Series 760-834-3798 Caring for the Caregiver: It’s a Marathon Not a Sprint Aug 8, 4 to 5 p.m.

Alison Sachs, MSW, CSW, OSW-C 760-423-4855 Men’s and Women’s Urology Aug 15, 4 to 5 p.m.

Lance Walsh, MD, Urology* and Kevin Shandera, MD, Urology* 760-423-4855 Bariatric Surgery Information Aug 10, 12 a.m. to noon; or Aug 23, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Bobby Bhasker-Rao, MD

General Surgery* 760-778-5220; registration required.

Fitness Classes for Cancer Patients and Survivors. Physician consent and registration required. Full schedule at emc.org/calendar.

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center Genetic and nutritional counseling, Wig Bank, Look Good – Feel Better program and numerous support groups are available. Full listing of support groups at emc.org/calendar. For information or to register, call 760-834-3798.

Eisenhower Renker Wellness Center Exercise, stress management, education

and support services to help patients adopt health healthy habits. For information or to register, call 760-773-2030 (unless otherwise indicated) Barbara Sinatra Center for Abused Children Special programs and individual,group and family therapy for victims of child sexual, physical and emotional abuse and associated trauma, and those who are at risk to be abused. For information, call 760-340-2336, or visit barbarasinatrachildrenscenter.org.

For information or registration for these programs and additional programs not listed here, call the number listed, or visit emc.org/ calendar.

Most events require early registration.

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MOTION & VISUALS 760-980-1050 | scott@motionandvisuals.com AUGUST 2017 37

FEATURE

BIG BEAR ROMP PROMISES A ROMPING GOOD TIME Big Bear ROMP returns for its third anniversary to Big Bear, CA and with it bringing playful fun to new heights as SoCal’s biggest, beariest summer escape.

Drawing hundreds of guys from the west coast and beyond, this weekend gathering provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the rustic, natural beauty of SoCal’s premier mountain town with a full line-up of playful, adventurous events, including a special performance by CeCe Peniston, featuring hits like “We Got a Love Thang” and “Finally.” Also new this year, Emmy-award winning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan, from Sordid Lives, Will & Grace, and American Horror Story, will be performing his new 1-man show, EXPOSED, in the host hotel’s main ballroom.

Catered specially to bears, cubs, and a diverse group of gay men comfortable in their own skin, on tap is a weekend filled with mixers, dance parties, pool parties, glow bowling, comedy shows and more designed to give attendees a memorable adventure in the mountains like no other.

The official host hotel is The Lodge at Big Bear Lake (formerly Northwoods Resort), located in The Village at 40650 Village Drive, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315. Special group discount room rate booking room via their website (link available on bigbearromp.com). Many rooms feature fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, as well as poolside views. Additional lodging options are available at nearby adjacent properties. All activities are within a brief walk from the host hotel.

FRIDAY, AUG. 18 Big Wet Spot Pool Party Join the action poolside for this “anything aqua”-themed pool party. So if you like it big & wet, this is the place to be. 12n – 4p: The Lodge Resort Pool (Host Hotel)

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS: THURSDAY, AUG. 17 Pre-comers Party at Chad’s Place After getting settled, meet up with the early gang for some beer, grub, and fun.7p – 9p Chad’s Place Restaurant & Bar

ROMP WEEKEND KICK-OFF PARTY The official kick-off event of the weekend! Meet your fellow ROMPers in the unique outdoor setting of Stillwell’s Cove – a perfect venue for checking out the action under the Big Bear night sky. 5p – 8p: The Lodge Resort Cove Amphitheater

GLOW BOWLING & BEER BUST AT THE BOWLING BARN Hit the lanes for a night of glow bowling! We’re taking over the entire bowling alley for a special black light “glow bowling” beer bust, complete with rockin’ tunes. Wear bright colors to stand out from the crowd and grab your balls to join the fun! 9p – 11:30p: The Bowling Barn

MOUNTAIN OF LAUGHS COMEDY NIGHT LESLIE JORDAN IN EXPOSED Emmy-award winning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan presents his new hilarious 1-man show, EXPOSED! 8:30p-10p: Main ballroom: The Lodge at Big Bear

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ROMP IN THE DARK LEATHER & GEAR DANCE EVENT Grab your harnesses or gear for ROMP in the Dark! This evening event features a pumpin’ dance area, spots to chill, and an intimate “naughty pines” lounge. How you ROMP in the dark is up to you. 11p-1a Upper floor ballrooms: The Lodge at Big Bear Lake (Host Hotel) SATURDAY, AUG. 19 Get LEI’D Pool Party Jump into the action as the parties get wet & wild at the host hotel pool on both Saturday and Sunday as DJ Ryan Jones and Mateo Segade returns with their fresh beats. The Vendor Marketplace will be poolside featuring unique apparel, adventurous travel, stylish jewelry and more. 10a – 4p: The Lodge Resort Pool (Host Hotel) PICK YOUR OWN ROMP ADVENTURE! Four main activities offered – pick your adventure!

Activities offered as a separately purchased supplement to the weekend pass. Tour information will be present at check-in and on the event website; limited day-of tickets sold, pending availability.

2p – 6p: Various locations (see event website for additional details and pricing) LUMBEARJACK DANCE EVENT FEATURING CECE PENISTON Grab some wood and dance your AX off with sweaty lumBEARjacks at the dance event of the weekend by the milliondollar light and sound system with a special guest performance

by Cece Peniston, and spinning by renown DJ Jon Williams. Come dressed in your best flannel --This epic event is not to be missed! 10p – 2a: The CAVE, 40789 Village Drive.

SUNDAY, AUG. 20 Disco Recovery Bingo Brunch A weekend in the woods wouldn’t be complete without a rowdy recovery brunch! Chow down on tasty grub while shaking your groove ‘thang to some thumpin’ beats. And what’s a perfect complement to a fabulous Sunday brunch? Bingo, of course! Hosted by the most entertaining, big-boned performer above 7,000 feet,

Miss Cadillac Monroe from Lips in San Diego 10a – 12n: Robin Hood Resort, 40797 Big Bear Boulevard LAST SPLASH BEFORE DASH POOL PARTY The name says it all—take one last dip before hitting the road.

Join the boys in the pool and chat about the fun weekend while making plans for next year. DJ Ryan Jones returns with his fresh beats. The Vendor Marketplace will be poolside, featuring unique apparel, adventurous travel, stylish jewelry and more. 12n - 4p The Lodge Resort Pool (Host Hotel) DIEHARDS AND STAY-OUTS GATHERING AT CHAD’S PLACE For those who didn’t get enough partying, it’s one last chance to get your freak on. Drink specials and good times on tap. 6p - 10p Chad’s Place Restaurant & Bar ABOUT BIG BEAR ROMP The organizers of Big Bear ROMP have a personal interest in Big Bear and have put in time and effort to create a fun, memorable event in a beautiful mountain setting.

Beyond having a great time, Big Bear ROMP is about giving back to the Big Bear community, and a portion of the pass sales will support a local wildlife rescue support organization (Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo).

Big Bear ROMP is produced by R&JP, LLC, a team devoted to hosting memorable events in southern California. Learn more at bigbearromp.com or contact info@bigbearromp.com with questions.

IF YOU GO: Big Bear ROMP When: Aug. 17-20, 2017 Host Hotel: The Lodge Resort Where: Big Bear Lake, CA Tickets: www.bigbearromp.com

AUGUST 2017 39

FEATURE

BIG BEAR ROMP 2017 PERFORMERS

CECE PENISTON, LESLIE JORDAN, DJ JON WILLIAMS, DJ MATEO SEGADE, DJ RYAN JONES, PHIL LISOTTA

CeCe Peniston began her recording career in 1991 with the album, Finally, and the album’s first single, Finally, was a #1 Billboard hit and went multi-platinum worldwide. In addition to being featured on more than thirty compilation albums, CeCe thrust passed the one-hit wonder mark and continued with singles like We Got A Love Thang , Keep On Walkin‘, I’m Not Over You, Inside That I Cried, Crazy Love, I’m In The Mood, Hit By Love, and many more. CeCe has toured to soldout venues domestically and internationally, contributed to numerous soundtracks, and made guest appearances on MTV, ShowTime at The Apollo, and VH1. She has established herself as one of the paramount artists of the nineties and of the new century.

Leslie Jordan is one of the most consistently recognizable faces in popular entertainment. Winner of the prestigious Emmy Award in 2006 for Will & Grace, he’s enjoyed rapturous reviews for his original stage plays My Trip down the Pink Carpet, Stories I can’t tell Mama, Fruit Fly, and supporting presence in one of Hollywood’s most prestigious, message-minded films of the last decade, The Help. His defining role as Brother Boy in the cult film sensation Sordid Lives evolved into a well-received prequel on the Logo Channel. He’s appeared regularly on American Horror Story opposite Hollywood heavyweights Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, Sarah Paulson and Francis Conroy. Leslie remains a mainstay as a Stage / TV / Film performer, voice-over artist, fundraiser, spokesperson, out artist, equal rights activist and all around Southern Baptist celebutante.

DJ Jon Williams - With 30+ years of nightclub performances under his belt, award-winning DJ Jon Williams will be bringing fire to the dance floor. From coast to coast and internationally, Jon has

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provided his unique sound to clubs, festivals and stages while blending a wide range of music genres. After years playing in NorCal and the Bay area, Jon is now based in San Diego, his 9-year residency at Bear Night San Diego and 4-year residency at BearBar Long Beach going strong and making him a crowd favorite.

DJ Mateo Segade - Returning for his second year, Mateo Segade is a nationally touring DJ known for his playful and sweeping energetic sets. A resident DJ for Bearracuda, he’s also spun in Nola, Dallas, Philly, SF and Houston, in addition to regular rotations in LA, Long Beach and San Diego. Despite what he describes as his “unfortunate physical appearance” and an exceedingly reclusive nature, the bear community has wholeheartedly embraced Mateo, with gigs at Bear Night/SD, Bear Bust/Precinct DTLA, Sunday Bust/Faultline, DTLA’s inaugural PROUD Festival, and headliner DJ for the Gear Night party at 2017’s IBC. DJ Ryan Jones has had an established home behind the decks in the Los Angeles club scene – from legendary beer busts to internationally renowned street fairs and festivals all up and down the West coast, his diverse experience enables him to adapt to and please any crowd.

Ryan’s role is to drum up the energy of the party and set the soundtrack for events that attendees will remember for a lifetime. Current residencies include Bearracuda Worldwide, Eagle LA, and a quarterly San Franciscobased music/art/performance collective called “SQURRRL.” Phil Lisotta - When he’s not harassing old ladies or chasing woodland creatures, Phil Lisotta spends his free time taunting audiences with creative trivia and witty banter. Join him on Saturday afternoon at the host hotel for an entertaining and hilarious trivia experience you’ll have nightmares about.

EPIQUREAN

MUSIC AND FOOD: HOW TO TASTE WITH YOUR EARS

BY E.PERASSO

It’s already common knowledge that food doesn’t have an “absolute” value, and often varies according to the conditions in which we taste them. However, nobody has ever examined how our sense of taste vary according to musical tempo – whether the “soundtrack” that accompanies our meals helps to shape our perception of flavor.

Let’s imagine that we’re indulging in a sweetly delicious English toffee (the beloved British dessert) during a leisurely moment.

Researchers have found that the human brain will perceive the dish’s bitter notes in a heightened way if the music we’re listening to is hard rock, or one in which the bass is dominant over the melody.

It’s bittersweet notes, instead, are sharpened with “sweeter” music, with dreamy-sounding feminine vocals, ones lacking in highpitched or sharp tones. So bitter is rock and sweet is pop? It’s actually not that simple, but it is clear that the ways we taste foods are influenced by the music we listen to.

This has been demonstrated with a study on the modulations of sound compared to food consumed, carried out in London by British researches who specialize in studying the senses. Using cinder toffee and 20 blindfolded tasters, their goal was to find the affinity between high tones and perceived sweetness, and low tones and heightened bitterness. The subjects were given different “soundtracks” to listen to as they tasted the same dessert, and then were asked to identify which part of their tongues perceived taste, rating it on a scale from completely sweet to completely bitter.

Apart from these results, the researchers also worked on getting certain flavors to surface when they were mixed with others, even in the same dish. Even in these cases, however, it’s possible to “manipulate” perceptions. One of the leading researchers, Charles Spence, explained it to the Smithsonian Magazine: “We’ve shown that if you take something with competing flavors, something like bacon-and-egg ice cream, we were able to change people’s perception of the dominant flavor—is it bacon, or egg? —simply by

playing sizzling bacon sounds or farmyard chicken noises”. And so is it fair to say that music can help to manipulate our sense of taste?

For another group of researchers, this time from Oxford, the answer is yes. To back up this thesis on manipulating taste through music, several colleagues from the Crossmodal Research Laboratory, which is part of the experimental psychology department, worked on pairing drinks and flavors with musical notes. And again, their studies showed that stronger, spicier and more complete tastes (like those based on the umami flavor) were easier to pair with low sounds. On the other hand, the sweetness and delicacy of milk and dessert, or the sweet but sour notes of lemon, “sounded” like a high note. These are only the first initial experiments, but they represent an important step for those who enjoy tasting either as a hobby or profession.

For now, until we wait for the next “taste” of evidence, we’d like to make a suggestion for a tune to put on just as soon as you finish reading this article: the Bittersweet Symphony, sung by The Verve.

AUGUST 2017 41

PINKIE’S CORNER

THANK YOU, MY FINAL CURTAIN CALL

BY PINKIE MERINGUE SHIMMER

Hello all of you fabulous wonderful people out there. Well as most of you know, Pinkie has retired. Yes the time has come, the time is right, for me to step down as Pinkie. It has been an AMAZING ride over the past 13 years. WOW how thankful am I for the opportunity to be Pinkie and grow with the community. Palm Springs has always welcomed me with open arms. I have had so many opportunities to make a positive impact and for that I am thankful.

Pinkie is not just the personality that you all love and support.

Through Pinkie I have had a voice to help many non-profits in the Coachella valley. Of course my main focus has been Desert AIDS Project. I am a long time survivor of HIV for almost 20 years. I am blessed; I have everything I need, a nice home, a wonderful husband, and great health insurance. When I am at DAP to volunteer, it is a humbling experience to interact with the clients as Pinkie and more so as Larry (Yes that is my boy name. LOL) When I’m at the front desk or food depot or leading my weekly sewing group interacting with the clients and volunteers, I really get to see first hand, the amazing impact that DAP has on the community and it makes me even more thankful.

I have been so thankful to be able to perform and hosts shows and pride festivals and fundraisers. I believe that when we are blessed, we should pay it forward and help those who need the help in any way we can. We all need to turn around and help the next one in line!

I will like to give a huge thanks to my amazing family and husband, who fully support me and my work. My parents who are very proud to say “my son Pinkie” They are proud of the person I have become. My family thought me the value and need to help out others.

I also want to give a special thanks to my most amazing husband.

“Pinkie” is not one person; this is a group effort with my husband Kevin. In addition, Kevin is a fantastic artist, as evident by the many headdresses he has made for me throughout the years. Pinkie would not exist without Kevin.

So thank you as we begin the next big adventure in our life.

Love and Light Be kind to each other Pinkie Meringue Shimmer/ Larry

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AUGUST 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

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COMING UP NEXT MONTH

WORK THE RUNWAY: 2017 FASHION ISSUE

AUGUST 2017 45

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EVENTS CALENDAR specific hours. All galleries are open during our monthly First Wednesday Art Walk from 5 to 8 pm. www.backstreetartdistrict.com

AUG 11 SPLASH HOUSE 2017. PALM SPRINGS Splash House is a multi-venue festival hosted across three resorts in Palm Springs for one amazing weekend. General admission tickets include access to all venues and shuttles running non-stop in between. Hotel packages include Splash House tickets and three-night accommodations at any of the host hotels.

Follow Splash House on Facebook and Twitter for more updates or visit www.splashhouse.com

DBA EVENTS AUGUST 7 6PM DESERT AIDS PROJECT 1695 N SUNRISE WAY PALM SPRINGS AUGUST 21 6PM BLACKBOOK BAR 315 E ARENAS ROAD PALM SPRINGS WWW.DESERTBUSINESSASSOCIATION.ORG

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

ONGOING >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

AUG 11-13 IDYLLWILD ARTS PRESENTS THE 24TH ANNUAL JAZZ IN THE PINES IN IDYLLWILD The Idyllwild Arts Foundation proudly presents the 24nd annual Jazz in the Pines Festival, featuring over two-dozen bands.

Performers and fans of jazz, blues, and R&B have a breathtaking mountain campus to themselves after the departure of the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program’s thousands of arts-lovers and before the first semester of the Foundation’s residential high school, Idyllwild Arts Academy. www.jazzinthepines.com

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BACK STREET ART DISTRICT The Backstreet Art District boasts a diverse collection of galleries & businesses where you may meet artists, visit working studios and enjoy fine art all in one location. You can find most galleries open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm, but nothing is set in concrete. We are a collective of boutique galleries and regretfully cannot always be in two places at once as we get called out on a variety of business items.

Please check with any gallery regarding

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) www.chillbarpalmsprings.com

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EVENTS CALENDAR 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

HRH DRAG BRUNCH. HARD ROCK HOTEL PALM SPRINGS The legendary Arial Trampway will present an extravagant performance for patrons every Sunday at the DRG, or Divas of Rock and Glam, BRNCH. Each show will feature Arial and her sister performers singing fan favorites in true Hard Rock spirit. $35 pp including bottomless mimosas, Bloody Marys and Bellini’s. To reserve your seat to the hottest show in town, visit OpenTable.com/ The Kitchen Restaurant at Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs.

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.

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 do for four days of all-male themed parties and gay, adult-oriented entertainment? Come find out on this tropical island. www.tropicalheatkw.com

AUG 10 - 13

NORTH CAROLINA GAY AND LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL. DURHAM NORTH CAROLINA The North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival (NCGLFF) is the second largest gay and lesbian film festival in the Southeast, bringing in thousands of patrons every year.

Since its start in 1995, the Festival features a diverse array of shorts, documentaries and feature films. The NCGLFF celebrates a worldwide glimpse of today’s gay, lesbian and transgender life, helps bring the community together and features entertaining and sophisticated films and filmmaking. www.carolinatheatre.org

AUG 8 - 13

PROVIDENCE LGBTQ FILM FESTIVAL PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND Now in its 21st year, the Providence LGBTQ Film Festival is an annual sidebar of the Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival. Rhode Island filmgoers are able to discover a diverse sampling of over 40 international and domestic films made by and for members of the LGBTQ community.

Ranging from romantic comedies, journeys of discover, to concerns affecting the trans community, the Film Festival has been curated to complement the LGBTQ Experience. Info at www.film-festival.org

AUG 20 - 27

CAMP CAMP PORTLAND, MAINE Structured just like the sleep-away summer camp that you remember from when you were young (er), Camp offers a full program of great outdoor, athletic, and arts & crafts activities along with a variety of entertaining evening social events. Located in scenic southwestern Maine, ‘Camp’ Camp is the perfect alternative vacation for adventurous members of the LGBT community looking for a unique vacation option beyond the usual gay cruise or resort. www.campcamp.com

AUG 10 - 19

HONOLULU RAINBOW FILM FESTIVAL HONOLULU, HAWAII In its 28th continuous year, the HRFF is one of the longest-running and well-respected LGBT film festivals in the country. The festival has presented hundreds of documentaries, feature films, shorts and animations from around the world, with special consideration given to Hawai’i-based filmmakers. Films programmed at the HRFF have gone to win Peabody and Emmy awards. The HRFF has an excellent reputation in the film festival community and has been the venue for both U.S. and world premieres.

Visit www.hglcf.org

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AUG 16 - 20

TROPICAL HEAT 2017 KEY WEST, FLORIDA Tropical Heat - Key West’s hottest event for men. The temperature is not the only thing that will rise during Tropical Heat. The all-male theme parties, pool parties and entertainment promises to be hot. August on the island is always hot, but during Tropical Heat it promises to be steamy. What can you

AUG 31 - SEPT 4

SOUTHERN DECADENCE NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA Southern Decadence began 46 years ago as a going-away party. It’s now become a major gay Labor Day Weekend destination, and is one of the largest annual festivals in New Orleans. It’s often called the “Gay Mardi Gras,” and is held each year in September. www.southerndecadence.net

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EVENTS CALENDAR This is where all the magic begins. Bringing you one of the most exclusive international Summer Gay Festivals in the world. As every year, XLSIOR grows bigger and brings you more. www.xlsiorfestival.com

AUG 17 - 22

FROSTY FRUITS SKI TRIP VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA Picture yourself on fresh first tracks, enjoying the pristine alpine air and carving up some of Australia’s best snowfall. You’re enjoying group activities, great gay camaraderie, stunning on-mountain accommodation and plenty of snow time. Evenings include après drinks, relaxing spas or saunas, some of the best alpine dining in Australia and warm fireside chats in your fabulous chalets. www.pointsofdifference.com

see a little bit of Iceland and have fun with likeminded guys from all over the world.

We also organize smaller social events throughout the year. If you´re coming to Iceland feel free to hit us up and see what happens! www.bearsonice.org

AUG 31 - SEP 7

AUG 10 - 20

AUG 14 - 22

GAY LONDON/GAY PARIS LONDON, ENGLAND This 9-day tour includes 4 nights in each city. See London and Paris a whole new way: these are not only Europe’s two great metropolises, they are also its two great *gay* metropolises. From Shakespeare to Stephen Fry, King Henri III to Yves St.Laurent, gay people have had a huge role in both cities’ histories and cultures. Let gay historian Dr. Andrew Lear and his staff of gay guides show you both cities from the gay perspective. www.oscarwildetours.com

AUG 31 - SEPT 3

BEARS ON ICE REYKJAVIK, ICELAND BEARS ON ICE is a friendly social event for bears and friends where you get to

VANCOUVER QUEER FILM FESTIVAL. VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA Illuminating queer lives through film for 29 years; Out On Screen has proudly presented films that showcase the transformative moments in the lives of queer people. Telling stories of the journeys we have taken to find ourselves, each other and our place in the world. For complete schedule of films visit www.queerfilmfestival.ca

AUG 23 - 30

XLSIOR MYKONOS MYKONOS, GREECE One island, over 30,000 people from all over the world all connected by love and the universal language of music. This is who we are and this is what XLSIOR is all about.

Old friends, new friends and loved ones.

ELLA INTERNATIONAL LESBIAN FESTIVAL PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN Welcome to the fifth edition of the ELLA Festival, a culture, music, art and sports Festival thought for the modern LGBT woman in the gorgeous island of Mallorca, just a couple of flight hours away from your city!

Enjoy the sun, the crystalline sea, lay down on the beach, vibrate to the sound of the best international artists and shows, and meet women from all over the world! www.ellafestival.com

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

AUGUST 2017 49

PHOTO REWIND PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL SHORTFEST PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL SHORTFEST PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

OOPS! Last month’s Queen of the Desert photo spread was credited to David A. Lee. Photo credit should have been Greg Felsen. Sorry for any inconvenience.

AUGUST 2017 51

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