TheStandard_Vol9_Issue3

MARCH 2021 | VOLUME 9 ISSUE 3 | THESTANDARDPS.COM | @THESTANDARDPS

CONTENTS VOLUME 9, ISSUE 3

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PHOTO REWIND 100 EDITIONS OF MEMORIES PAGE 47-51

Volume 9 Issue 3 COVER 100th EDITION RETROSPECTIVE OF OUR 1ST 100 COVER AND I QUOTE COMMENTS FROM OUR READERS, WRITERS & ADVERTISERS FEATURE ES COLLECTION / SPRING LOOKS FEATURE JASON STUART / I’M THE DADDY & I HAVE CANDY PSP FOCUS THE CENTER VIRTUAL RED DRESS AAP-FOOD SAMARITANS POSTAL PS PLEDGES FINANCIAL SUPPORT

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

MARCH 2021 3

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COMMENTARY OUR FIRST 100 Picture it October 2012, a month after closing shop at The Bottomline Magazine and wondering what would come next.

Enter two previous co-workers and friends, Mona DeCrinis & Maya Kalabic saying, “Hey; why don’t you start your own publication?” And as they say, the rest is history. It was such an exciting time, being able to dream up the concept of the magazine, build the team and see it become reality. It’s hard to believe that we are commemorating our 100th edition. It still feels like yesterday.

Wanting to be anything but your ordinary LGBTQ publication and wanting to dispel any preconceived notions of what an LGBTQ publication was supposed to be, we embarked on developing a magazine that not only reached our gay community, but also to all those who cared to give it a look. We present diverse content that reflects the LGBTQ lifestyle and culture. Trying to set a STANDARD among LGBTQ magazines, this publication is written and designed for the smart, discerning LGBTQ & LGBTQ-friendly reader who is looking for more than cheap thrills and fluff.

The Standard Magazine feels proud to publish it’s 100th issue. Of course, we cannot enjoy such honor and joy without the support and contributions of our loyal readers, advertisers and all our fantastic contributing writers past & present. We are so looking forward to our next 100. Thank you all, we couldn’t have done it without you.

The Standard Magazine 400 N Sunrise Way #263 Palm Springs CA 92262 760.831.4869 NINO EILETS Publisher LUCIANO McNULTY Editor MAYA KALABIC Art Director PHOTOGRAPHER David A. Lee CONTRIBUTORS

Tyler Wynn, Greg Stillwell, Tom Tietjen, Jack Bunting, Dann Foley, Lee Lynch, Bob Bogard, Jeff Dorta, Jill Langham, Terri Schlichenmeyer & Lenore Carpentiere

www.thestandardps.com EDITORIAL CREDITS :

BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation, Project Publicity, MSN, Reuters & CNN The Standard Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinions of the Standard or its staff, advertisers or readers with exception of editorials.

Publication of the name or photograph of any person, business or organization in articles or advertising in the Standard is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person, business or organization. The Standard disclaims any responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Advertising rates are subject to change without notice. The Standard reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to reject any advertisement for any reason including, but not limited to poor taste. It is the policy of The Standard that we only publish letters to the editor that are

Nino Eilets Publisher The Standard Magazine

signed by the author and verifiable by phone number. We can reserve the right of anonymity upon request. The letters need to be original, in good taste and free of libel as well as edited for clarity and grammar. Letters are subject to editing by The Standard that also reserves the right to decline print. Please forward your letters to: info@thestandardps.com The views expressed is not necessarily those of The Standard. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. No portion of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed consent of

You got something to say?

Email us to be considered on our commentary page at info@thestandardps.com

the publisher.

COVER

FAVORITE ISSUE RETROSPECTIVE For our 100th edition, we decided to do a retrospective of our favorite issues from the past 100 issues. Coming up with our top issues seemed like a major endeavor, so we asked several of our avid readers to give us what they considered their favorites. With that information we put together a timeline that catches the essences of where we started, who we have become and our vibe for the future.

Another Foundatio http://iss

Talk about a party, once in lifetime performa King, Pamala Stanley, Linda Clifford and se of Disco at the 21st Evening Under the Star http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/doc

Relative newcomer, at the time, Ariana Grande perfo Silver Anniversary http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestan

It’s a matter of PRIDE The Gay Movement. Past, Present, Future.

JUNE, 2013 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 6 theStandardps.com

Physiology of Fitness

Lights! Camera! Action!

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Celebrating 20 years of T incomparable Jane Krakow http://issuu.com/thestanda

We featured many local artists in this our annual art issu fortunate to have the amazing artist Josh Agle aka Sh original piece for our cover. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard Our 1st Fitness Issue. The physiology of fitness and its correlation with earth science. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandardps_issue9 Celebrating The Gay Pride Movement, Past, Present, Future Then President Barak Obama issue proclamation declaring June LGBT Month http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandardps_issue6_ Our very first edition, and the focus was the International Film Festival. Trying to establish our name, we had a good start and were very well received by the community. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol1issue1r

Fashion Trends plus a Trans model speaks candidly about changing the face of modeling. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol4_issue9 Local restaurants share their flavor. Also an exclusive interview with one of the valley’s favorite restaurateurs, Willie Rhine http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol3_issue8

acclaimed artist features their work on our cover. This time we the Keith Haring on were gracious enough to allow us to use this image painted by the late artist. suu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol3_issue7

ances by Martha Wash, France Joli, Evelyn Champagne everal others bought the house down as The First Ladies rs benefitting AIDS Assistance Program. cs/thestandardps_vol2_issue4

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MARCH 2021 7

COVER

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We talked about sports and how homophob http://e.issuu.com/embed.html?d=thestanda

In this issue we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of th https://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thesta

Taking you on a trip to the https://issuu.com/thestanda

Exclusive interview with the outspoken Rupaul’s Drag Race Rio plus the always popular Holiday Gift Guide https://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandar Now hear this! A whole new crop of LGBT musicians. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol5_issue8 Escaping never felt so good. Top LGBT beach destinations. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol5_issue6

Mad About Modernism plus the visionaries behind the artistry. http://issuu.com/thestandardmagazine/docs/thestandard_vol5_issue2

This was one of the most important elections of our lifetime. In the short time since then, we can see a glimmer of hope and optimism in our near future. https://e.issuu.com/embed.html?d=thestandard_vol8_issue10&u=thestandardmagazine The future of travel in the age of COVID-19 including Virtual Vacations http://e.issuu.com/embed.html?d=thestandard_vol8_issue7&u=thestandardmagazine

dst of a pandemic and so much misinformation being disseminated, we attempted at a different angle by talking about music and its power in dealing with all the ty that came with COVID e.issuu.com/embed.html?d=thestandard_vol8_issue5&u=thestandardmagazine

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A great big thank you to our readers for their input. I know that there are many favorites that were not included in this timeline. If were up to me, I would have included all 100; but then again I’m a bit biased. Here’s to the next 100!

MARCH 2021 9

CANCER HASN’T STOPPED. So neither have we.

Cancer treatments can compromise immune systems, making cancer patients like Victoria even more vulnerable to COVID-19.

We need your help to keep critical support and resources available during this crisis.

Please donate today at cancer.org

Victoria, Cancer survivor 10 THESTANDARDPS.COM

MARCH 2021 11

COVER

AND I QUOTE OUR COMMUNITY SPEAKS OUT WITH COMMENTS FROM OUR READERS, ADVERTISERS AND WRITERS ABOUT OUR 100TH EDITION

I’m proud to have my columns appear in an e-magazine as professionally produced as “The Standard.” It is a pleasure to work with Nino.

Lee Lynch Contributing Writer, & Author

Sanctuary Palm Springs is so very appreciative of the support and exposure we have received, and continue to receive, from The Standard Magazine. One of the most significant challenges facing youth in foster care is invisibility. If people don’t see them and hear about their experiences and the many challenges they face growing up without a supportive family, then their needs go unmet. But thanks to the dedication and commitment of The Standard Magazine to highlight the experiences of everyone in our part of the world, Sanctuary Palm Springs and the youth we serve and support are stronger, and better able to access the many supportive resources that our community provides.

Rob Woronoff, MS Executive Director Sanctuary Palm Springs

Congratulations on reaching 100! The Standard changed the standard of LGBTQ+ storytelling by putting authentic storytelling in the palm of our hands each month, allowing us to share information easily with friends in other cities across the country.

Steven Henke Director of Brand Marketing DAP Health

For almost a decade, Family Hospice Care has partnered with Nino and The Standard; our preferred media for promoting our hospice organization.

Why The Standard? By consistently producing a professional, engaging, contemporary publication, The Standard has provided Family Hospice Care an elevated forum to reach the LGBTQ community and its allies. One unanticipated outcome of this

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partnership, was the growth of our hospice volunteer program.

The comfort and compassion that many of The Standard’s readers have generously given to our hospice members, in the form of their personal time and kindness, is a testimony to what The Standard represents. On behalf of all of us at Family Hospice Care, we celebrate Nino and The Standard for achieving this very significant milestone !!!

Colin Robertson, Administrator Family Hospice Care

Today’s issue of The Standard is as you’ve seen, its 100th issue! How wonderful is that? I am so proud of Nino Eilets and his informative, illuminating and insightful, online magazine. Kudos, my friend. Here’s to 100 more!

Jill Langham Contributing Writer & Fitness Guru

Congratulations to The Standard Magazine on your Century Celebration! Cheers to all who have contributed to this milestone of 100 issues. Special appreciation goes out to the devoted community figure and passionate owner and publisher Nino Eilets. The Standard has become the steady voice of the community bringing essential information and diverse thoughts to readers like me. Best wishes for the next 100.

Ron deHarte Executive Director Greater Palm Springs Pride

Wow! One hundred issues. Knowing and working with Nino and The Standard over the years has been a pleasure. One of the first to recognize the importance of a web-based magazine, Nino has helped continue to keep Palm Springs LGBTQ+ issues of interest to both locals and tourists alike alive. Congratulations and to many more issues.

David L. Gray, Principal Gray Public Relations & Marketing

Nino and his team have set “the standard” in an online news magazine for our Coachella Valley LGBTQ+ community!

Congratulations from all of us @ The Center! We’re grateful for our partnership. Happy 100th issue!

Raul Rodriguez l Development Manager LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert

I have worked with Nino Eilets, Publisher of The Standard Magazine as a writer, advertiser with my clients and a reader of your awesome publication. You bring new content every month that readers want to know about with a diversity of topics for the LGBTQ & LGBTQ Friendly Readers? Congratulations on your 100th Issue.

You must be so proud, I know I am!

Kathleen Bennett, Founder/Principal Resort Marketing

Congratulations to Nino and his outstanding staff of professionals for reaching 100 issues! Family Hospice Care has been a monthly advertiser with The Standard since its first edition. It didn’t take us long to see the results of our investment and partnership. We now enjoy a stronger relationship with the LGBTQ community, and we thank Nino for making this possible. Nino and Family Hospice Care share the same belief; giving back to our community is paramount. Nino and his generosity has supported many non-profit agencies throughout the years. We are very proud to be associated with Nino and The Standard and we look forward to the next 100 issues...Bravo Nino!

I can’t express the appreciation, respect and true adoration I have for Nino and The Standard Magazine for showing a Brotha some love with my cover story…much love back to you. I thank you for all the unacknowledged things you do for us peeps, us gay peeps and the community Andre Carthen Chef/ Design Ambassador kathy ireland Worldwide & Contributing writer

Abby Cohen, Community Relations Liaison Family Hospice Care

MARCH 2021 13

Right. Here.

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When it comes to high quality health care, Eisenhower is here for you — now with five great health centers in the Palm Springs area, and an enhanced focus on services that meet the unique health needs of men.

• Primary Care and Eisenhower 365

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Learn more at PSHealth.EisenhowerHealth.org or call 760-773-1460.

Eisenhower Health Center at Sunrise, 151 S. Sunrise Way Eisenhower Health Center at Rimrock, 4791 E. Palm Canyon Drive Eisenhower Health Center at Plaza del Sol, 1555-C S. Palm Canyon Drive Eisenhower Health Center at South Palm Canyon, 415 S. Palm Canyon Drive Eisenhower Primary Care at North Palm Canyon, 1401 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 202

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BOOK REVIEW

ALWAYS OVERBOOKED

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER The place is filled with balloons.

They’re floating near the ceiling, strings just out of reach for now, some on the floor. The lights seem to be on a “twinkle” setting and there are candles carefully nestled in centerpieces, so the entire room sparkles from corner to corner. The guest of honor isn’t there yet, but you are and in “Let’s Get Back to the Party” by Zak Salih, you already wish you hadn’t come.

Sebastian Mote hadn’t seen Oscar Burnham in a decade, not since they were kids, but the guy across the room at the wedding reception sure looked like Oscar. If it was, Sebastian wondered if Oscar would he remember him, or their once-close friendship, or afternoons together in the basement and the things they did to one another?

Oscar Burnham was truthfully more interested in a cruising app than he was in rekindling a boyhood friendship. Sebastian was every bit as boring as Oscar remembered; he was probably one of those queens whose only focus, now that gay marriage was legal, was to have a husband and a bunch of obnoxious kids. It irritated Oscar that he was forced to exchange phone numbers with Sebastian, and lame promises to hang out soon.

Soon. More like not-soon, since Oscar was busy with someone he met when an app-date didn’t show up. Sean Stokes was an older man, a writer, and though Oscar professed to dislike reading, he was captivated by Sean’s explicit tales of queer life before Oscar was even born. He couldn’t get enough of Sean – and vice versa, apparently, because Sean asked for Oscar’s stories and it eventually became clear that Sean’s next book would be about Oscar.

There was no denying that Oscar’s ghosting hurt Sebastian, but he rather expected it. Instead, he threw himself into a friendship with a young student at his school, daring to let himself become obsessed with seventeen-year-old Arthur. It was painful, hopeful, and something he could never admit to anyone else.

Least of all, his boyhood pal, Oscar...

At first browse, “Let’s Get Back to the Party” can seem long and very wordy. It hangs on the lives of two men who are mostly not very likable, to themselves or to one another, and how they hold on to their history with fingernails on one hand, pushing each other away with the other hand. You’ll want to shake them, but the thing is, it’s hard not to want to watch them make their own lives worse: this novel is a little schadenfreudey, but with a degree of sympathy.

The sympathy wins, as author Zak Salih shows sides of both

Sebastian and Oscar that neither character would admit, and reasons why each becomes contemptuous with the other. The truth, for one of them, is a devastating shocker that slams the brakes on the tale but alas, getting there takes awhile; you’ll want to ride that wave to this books’ fitting end.

And in that end, “Let’s Get Back to the Party” really pops.

“Let’s Get Back to the Party: A Novel” by Zak Salih c.2021, Algonquin Books of Chapel H ill $25.95 / higher in Canada 288 pages

MARCH 2021 15

FEATURE

MERMAID TALE JINCEY LUMPKIN RELEASES DEBUT NOVEL

BY LENORE CARPENTIERE

After launching launched Juicy Pink Box, a film studio specializing in lesbian erotica, Out Magazine named Jincey Lumpkin among its 100 most influential gay people. This month, Ms. Lumpkin makes the leap from the small screen to the kindle screen with Mermaid of Venice, her psychosexual thriller that centers on the ultra-rich, extremely glamorous Gia Acquaviva, whose roots descend from the mythological mermaids of ancient Greece.

Beneath Gia’s beguiling façade lurks a deeply troubled soul who longs for intimacy and believes she may have found her everlasting match in Cameron Langley. They share an intensely passionate, deeply sexual connection...but, inside, Gia remains a mermaid. Can her growing affection for Cameron lull the murderous cravings she feels building within?

We spoke with Jincey Lumpkin from her home in Portugal.

Did the long months in quarantine inspire you to write your first novel?

Jincey Lumpkin: Quarantine was a huge driver for me, creatively speaking. It’s been wonderful to get lost in Gia’s world.

As for the genesis of Mermaid of Venice, I got fired from my job in advertising last April, at precisely the same moment that my symptoms of Covid appeared. I spent a full month very, very sick, barely able to move. My mind traveled to a dream I had many years ago: a woman in Venice in an emerald green silk dress who had just murdered her lover, and then jumped into the canal to swim to kill another lover in another European city. I was battling horrible insomnia, so I spent the night ideating, trying to determine if this woman I had dreamed about could become the basis for a book.

Have you always had a fascination with mermaids?

I was raised in Disney’s Little Mermaid era, so absolutely; I’ve always been obsessed. I would spend hours in the pool, pretending to be a mermaid. Plus, come on, Splash... that was a classic, and a

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huge inspiration, as well. Serial killers also fascinate me. Why do they kill? Are they able to maintain normal human relationships? If so, how? A big inspiration was Patricia Highsmith’s The Talented Mr. Ripley. One thing Highsmith always said about Tom Ripley is that we want him to kill and to get away with it. I also wanted to explore the idea that the rich and powerful often don’t face consequences

for the crimes they commit, or it takes many years before they are brought to justice. I looked at people like Jeffrey Epstein and Ted Bundy when developing Gia. I came to learn that women often kill for the same reason men do: sexual gratification and violent control.

Did you consider making Gia Acquaviva a lesbian?

Love this question. I actually spent five years working on a fantasy series with a writing partner, and the leads in that story were queer women. I’ve written queer erotica. I directed and produced lesbian/queer porn for many years. This time, I really wanted to try something new and write about a relationship between a man and a woman. However, there are plenty of queer characters in the book series. For example, Gia’s surrogate father, Vittore, is bisexual.

He’s an 80-year-old Venetian barber. I love this bisexual old man so much, and I am dying to give him a lover. I think even Gia’s super queer and pansexual. Rainbows stream from my fingertips into the keyboard regardless of what I’m writing. I truly cannot help myself.

Mermaids have a special meaning to trans women. Have you left open the possibility that Gia may be a trans woman?

You’re inspiring me now! I read Janet Mock’s essay on what mermaids mean to her. I love her, and I can understand where she is coming from. I’m working on the second book now, so I’m jotting notes: trans mermaid. Regarding Gia, I would never write a trope plot twist like, surprise, she’s trans! I like to write characters as full people. If I had a trans character, I would spend a lot of time thinking and researching, so that I understood more about the lived experiences of trans women to infuse that into the character. Several years ago, Laverne Cox helped me with media training, and so I dream of working with her again one day. She’d be a wonderful Gia! Trace Lysette is also stunning and so mermaid-like. I can see her as Gia, too.

Is there a significance for setting the plot in Venice?

Venice is the perfect place for a mermaid story––it’s all water!

Very convenient for the transportation and concealment of dead lovers. Also, the architecture is beautiful. Venice is beyond gorgeous.

It’s a shame that tourism has eroded the culture to a large degree.

With Mermaid of Venice, you get to experience a fairytale version of the city.

Mermaid of Venice is the first in a series. What do you have in store for Gia Acquaviva?

I can’t give away spoilers! But yes, plenty of queer adventures await Gia Acquaviva. So, hide your husband, hide your wife. She’s killing everybody out here.

Mermaid of Venice is Jincey Lumpkin’s first novel and the first installment in a series of six books about Gia Acquaviva. It is available March 15 on Amazon.

Enter to win a copy of Mermaid of Venice at Goodreads www.goodreads.com/giveaway 100 winners will be chosen on March 24!

MARCH 2021 17

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Congratulations to The Standard Magazine on their 100th issue 18 THESTANDARDPS.COM

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MARCH 2021 19

AMAZON TRAIL

COVID 19 PIONEER

BY LEE LYNCH

Now that President Biden and Vice President Harris are in office, I’ve been able to have my first Covid 19 vaccine shot. It was no big deal. I went to our county fairgrounds expecting to be injected through my car window, the way I was tested. I thank my lucky stars the test was negative. I’m grateful to the medical profession that persisted in making tests and vaccines available despite the disinformation and profiteering of our former leaders.

Turned out, the vaccines were administered in the same exhibit building that’s used for our winter farmers’ market, a very familiar and reassuring space. The six-foot tables that usually serve to display crafts or local mushrooms and goat cheeses, were now place markers.

Two representatives of our Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, minus their mounts, stood at the door, masked and chatting with new arrivals. We weren’t exactly an unruly crowd—age seventy-five at the youngest—so there was little for them to do. Once inside, our temperatures were taken, we were sent along to show ID and turn in required paperwork. Some Internet averse or disabled people filled out that paperwork on site assisted by caretakers

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and community helpers.

One half hour was allotted for each group to be vaccinated.

Firefighters led the way to makeshift corrals, maybe twelve foot by twelve foot, and to inadequately distanced folding chairs. No matter, it’s in the nature of groups to group, and people knew each other so there was never a chance some would voluntarily social distance, despite the fact that they were there to prevent dying in a pandemic.

The firefighters then deposited us, one at each end of the tables. I spotted non-gay neighbors in front of me and we cheerfully visited—at a distance. They’ve since invited me to ride with them for our second shots. That could have been fun and memorable, I thought later, especially if we gave one another the virus while enclosed in a car.

Which brought me back to the first inoculation I remember. I was in elementary school when American schoolchildren became guinea pigs for Dr. Salk’s vaccine. We waited on line outside the Flushing, Queens P.S. 20 gymnasium, in enforced quiet, dozens of solemn,

worried kids. Personally, I was terrified of being shut inside an iron lung and welcomed the chance to avoid that fate.

The Covid 19 vaccines have emergency authorization; the polio shots were experimental. Some children received the actual inoculation, others a placebo. We filed into the gym and stopped at little stations staffed by who-knew-who. I asked this time, and confirmed that RNs were giving the Covid injections.

As Polio Pioneers, we received pins and certificates (which many of us still have, including me). Mothers of pupils volunteered to comfort us. I lucked out with a mom who put her arms around me and held me close during my ordeal. If I hadn’t already been a dyke, I would have become one from that experience alone—what pain?

The more recent injection was painless. For about two days afterward I couldn’t lift that arm without great discomfort, but as vulnerable elders, we accepted the necessity of inoculation with stoicism. There was a nurse for each row of recipients so those in the back were able to watch for horrendous reactions from the procedure. There were none.

The last corral was the observation room where we waited thirty minutes, in case we needed an epi pen or ambulance. The firefighters roamed among us, smiling and joking with people they knew, checking on us all. Eventually, we crammed together on line to schedule appointments for our second shots.

As a seasoned Polio Pioneer, sixty-odd years later, it strikes me as funny that I felt a little proud, just as I had in grade school, to be part of this mass health effort. There’s a bond now, between my neighbors and myself that we went through the unknown together, that we believed in the science and the medicine and did our patriotic duty to keep America safe.

Before my observation period ended, I took a seat at one end of a long bench and exchanged greetings with a courageous man perhaps twenty-five years my senior. As I watched the clock, I considered myself lucky, way back when, to have received the real polio vaccine rather than the placebo. In the present, I know I’m lucky to have reached the current vaccine eligibility cutoff age.

And lucky to have outlived the willful mismanagement of the Covid 19 pandemic.

MARCH 2021 21

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MARCH 2021 23

DAPUPDATE

DAP HEALTH: ASKING FOR HELP IS OK

EXPANDED RESOURCE NAVIGATION OFFERS HOPE TO MORE

BY JACK BUNTING

More people face poverty daily because of this pandemic, and their own fear of seeking assistance threatens them and their communities. DAP Health is taking the stigma out of asking for help with a new Resources Navigator service for people who have been affected

by COVID and who might not usually be seeking this kind of resource.

compatible services and programs according to their needs, with community partners that will render the service. For many who are suffering, the greatest barrier can be not knowing about the many services available to help them, offered from several nonprofits and government agencies.

Participants are required to meet just one of the following criteria:

Anyone who is interested should contact Michael Cohan by calling (760) 323-2118 ext. 480 or by e-mailing mcohan@ daphealth.org.

It is not necessary to be a patient or client of DAP Health to utilize this new service. Participants will also be able to register for ongoing medical services and behavioral health during their consultation.

“The idea is to be able to connect community members who

• Personal health affected by having COVID • Spouse, significant other, or family affected by having COVID • Employment or income negatively impacted by COVID DAP Health will connect participants to the best and most

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have been impacted by COVID to services in the community,” said Zayda Welden, DAP Social Services director. “We will let them know of the available medical and mental health care services we have if they are interested, but our main goal is to assist people impacted with COVID.” Help accessing food, utilities, and Internet service can make a huge difference for many affected by COVID, who are also experiencing growing job losses. Assistance with unemployment insurance, legal advice and tax services are also resources that people in our community can connect to.

RESOURCE NAVIGATION CAN HELP LINK TO THESE ESSENTIALS: • Food • Utilities • Internet Service • Rent • Unemployment insurance • Tax services • Legal advice • Exercise programs • Health insurance or Medi-Cal (including through Covered California) • Ongoing medical and behavioral healthcare

UNDERSTANDING DAP HEALTH DAP Health is an advocacy-based health center that serves over 9,700 patients with medical and mental healthcare; HIV and STD testing and treatment; dentistry, pharmacy, laboratory services, social services; and help with food, housing, joblessness, and isolation. The largest team of specialized clinicians in the area provides excellent HIV care.

DAP Health opened one of California’s first COVID clinics and hotlines to offer screening, testing, and treatment.

DAP Health’s sexual health clinic offers STI testing and treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and HIV and HCV testing. DAP has earned Charity Navigator’s highest rating for the twelfth consecutive year – landing DAP in the top 6% of nonprofits rated. The distinction recognizes that DAP exceeds industry standards in terms of financial health, accountability, and transparency.

Visit www.daphealth.org to learn more.

MARCH 2021 25

INDESIGN

HAPPY 100 ANNIVERSARY! TH

BY DANN FOLEY

It is a true milestone. 100 issues of The Standard magazine and going strong. It seems even sweeter when you consider the last year’s trials and tribulations. As we plow head first into the next 100 issues I thought it would be nice to take a look back at where we have come from.

The single most important statement I can make regarding everything I have written in all of the past issues is this…The terrific thing about good design is that it is lasting. Good design, style and, living well are meant for everyone. It is attainable to everyone and every price point. When you choose wisely and with both authority and conviction, you will have made the right choice for you, every time.

I have challenged you, in every article I have written, to choose wisely. For yourself, for your home and for your life. Taking pride in yourself and your home is never a wasted endeavor. It also does not have to be all consuming. Caring about and for your home does not have to be pretentious or self-indulgent. Making the effort is about what makes you happy and tells a story of who you are. That story does not have to be shouted. Your story should never be told from a perspective of loftiness but, from a place of authenticity and honesty. When you approach the concept of “Lifestyle” from this point, you cannot go wrong and you cannot get it wrong.

Those are many lofty words for living well but, getting started is as easy as admitting to yourself that you want more. So, if your home is a reflection of all that you are, what is the story it tells? For some of us that answer is a scary one. For others the answer might be, I am doing all I can think of but, I am still not “there” yet. In both instances the way forward is the same. Let me help you, once again, in this month where we are celebrating everything we have done as a magazine and where we are going, let me give you some good and sage advice on how to live better, today.

If we learned one thing from the lockdown, it is that we can truly get anything we want online. This includes anything and everything for your home. Telling you to do your research and do your homework has never been easier. The internet was a secondary source of information for me as a designer, until now. Like you I

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google everything! Personally and professionally the answer are as close as your laptop or tablet.

Like all technology, or so it seems, a bit of coaching is always helpful to get the most out of the medium. Specifically, when I am doing a search for anything home related, invariably am looking for specific items. Here are a few to help you refine your search…

• When searching for any item be sure to use descriptive terms specific to your needs. For example, if you are looking for a sofa online, try using keywords that might include the length, style, seat depth and shape of the sofa. If you are looking for a sectional sofa, place the word sectional before the word sofa. If you are looking for a blue sofa, try using the color after the word sofa. You can try your descriptive words in different orders to get different results.

• Once you have a list of possible websites, scroll down past the first 3 or 4 listings. Most often, those listing are paid to positioned at the top and they rarely meet my desired needs. This where you will often find information more closely aligned with my needs.

• When you are searching online for your home, go around the sites and retailers you already know. Expand your search and horizons. There is such a wealth of product available to you. The entire world is at your disposal and there has never been a better time to be a consumer.

• If you are looking to expand your style horizons before you start selecting items for your home, literally every magazine is available online as well. All or the newest, latest, greatest design from around the world is yours for the viewing. Again, don’t go to the publications you already know, try something new!

I have often said here in these pages that one of my biggest jobs as a designer is listen to the client’s desires and the remove their blinders to show them just how big their ideas can be and how expansive your personal style really can become.

At the core of living well is the idea that you deserve more, you really do. And the best way to celebrate a beautiful well lived

life is by sharing it. Being authentic means, you make your choices based on who you are and not what someone tells you. I want to end with this thought (which I have shared in the last 100 issues), when you choose wisely, you cannot get this wrong. Decorating is not brain surgery; it is a process by which you decide who you are in the way that you live. What you love is meant to be personal.

Your style is enough!

Live Well, Dann www.foleystinnette.com designer Dann: Instagram, Facebook, twitter, Pinterest, houzz

MARCH 2021 27

FEATURE

THE LEGEND CONTINUES ES COLLECTION CELEBRATES 15 YEARS WITH STEAMY SPRING COLLECTION

BY TYLER WYNN

2

ES Collection celebrates its 15-year anniversary with the unveiling of its Legend collection.

The range varies from shiny party wear to exquisite perfectfitting casual and underwear featuring sophisticated designs and sexy patterns. Additionally, the line premieres ES Collection’s new ECOwave fabric with threads recycled from plastic residues found in the Mediterranean. Production is done in one factory, eliminating unnecessary emissions from travel and digital prints are made by solar energy, incorporating a ´dry´ print that allows for a 100% reduction of water use.

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Photographer Alain Bearinz and models Gael Jacob, King Vincene, Jess Vill and Aqua God shot the campaign for Legend in the exotic Saint-Cyprien-Plage region of France. The entire collection is available now at ESCollectionUSA.com.

1.Three’s company as Gael and Jess wear ESCollectionUSA’s Shiny Rib Jock in black while King wears the same jock in white .90% polyamide & 10% spandex 2. King and Jess get intimate in ESCollectionUSA’s Blue Diamonds jocks 45% polyamide, 45% polyester, 10% elastane. Pouch side

1

9

8

5 6

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FEATURE in cobalt diamonds fabric. Side panels in super soft heather grey fabric. Push-Up technology.

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5. Gael and Jess step into the hot tub in their sport swim briefs

by ESCollectionUSA 90% polyamide 10% elastane. Removable Pack-up technology 6. King take a dip in the tub in ESCollectionUSA’s Skagen swim brief 80% Polyamide and 20% Spandex. Square, low cut includes Pack up System 7. Jess is served as King and Gael, in their Second Skin briefs

by ESCollectionUSA, prepare to dig in. Basic brief with two stripes 90% viscose & 10% spandex Perfect fit and extremely comfortable.

Designed and made in Barcelona 8. Gael is anything but casual in the Dystopia skirt and crop top

by ESCollectionUSA 100% polyester. Skirt has wide opening on the side and stainless carabineer for best adjustment. Top has rubber on both sides and 4 stainless carabineers.

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9. Jess is front and center with Gael and Aqua God backing him up, all wearing ESCollectionUSA’s Elliot Camo Swim short 67% polyamide & 33% polyester. Featuring a metallic camo pattern, available in blue, green and brown.

For more info visit www.escollectionusa.com

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MARCH 2021 33

FEATURE

JASON STUART: NEW COMEDY ALBUM

I’M THE DADDY AND I HAVE CANDY One name comes to mind when you think of one of the most prolific character actors, who’s also an outrageous, openly gay stand-up comic; Jason Stuart. For the last few years, Jason has been asking this question; “When you break the ground do you get to walk on it?” Jason Stuart has reached the peak of success after years of steady work in film & television and on stage, with over 250 credits on his IMDB page. “For the past few years, people have begun to approach me and say, ‘you’re that guy,” Stuart explains.

His new comedy album I’m The Daddy And I Have Candy dropped last month on all the online platforms. Critics have said he is this generations Don Rickles or Joan Rivers. Serious Comedy says, “He’s lighting quick and so funny!” This is his 2nd comedy album, Stuart says after the success of “Gay Comedy Without A Dress” he wanted to deliver an album at the same level as his ground breaking first one.

Jason is, along with Mitch Hara, the co-star, co-writer and coproducer of the hit Amazon comedy series Smothered. The outrageous series tells the story of a long-time hateful Jewish gay couple who are unable to stand each other anymore. Yet, they can’t afford to divorce. Both actors are nominated for best digital performance & series for the Queerty Awards. Recently, he just finished filming Goliath episode 6 starring Billy Bob Thornton opposite J.K. Simmons on Amazon. He is currently featured in the thriller Immortal, starring Dylan Baker, Tony Todd and Robin Barlett, opposite Samm Levine.

Also available on demand, he plays “Joe,” a private investigator who deals with spy equipment. Perhaps most excitingly, he plays a Polish immigrant in the dark comedy “Tribes”, starring & produced by Jake Hunter that had its premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, is now heading to Cannes Film Festival, and is being considered for an Oscar nomination. Adam Waheed and DeStorm Power also starred from filmmaker Nino Aldi.

His autobiography, Shut Up, I’m Talking! from CCB Publishing, has been receiving outstanding reviews on Amazon. It’s the funny, poignant story of a gay Jewish boy whose life changed after seeing Funny Girl at a second-run movie theatre in Hollywood. “I thought to myself, I’m in love with Omar Sharif – who am I left to be but Barbra Streisand! And I’m a guy... Oy!” It’s about surviving a crazy family

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who survived the Holocaust and clearing up the wreckage of one’s past while learning how to become a man.

He also just starred in the short Hank from director Hongyu “Neo” Li and co-starring Jay Disney, about a gay couple who consider an open relationship, which continues to earn praise at numerous festivals, including winning the Best LGBTQ Short at this year’s Los Angeles International Film Festival. In Hongyu “Neo” Li’s sophomore film, which is available on REVRY Stuart has already received rave reviews and many other award nominations and wins were given to the film. After seeing his performances in the Sundance hits Tangerine, as “Joey the doorman” and made on iPhone comedy, and The Birth of a Nation, a historical drama & breakthrough performance as Joseph Randall, one of the villainous plantation owners at the wrong end of a rebellion, Li approached Stuart with the role of Hank.

Click below for a preview of “I’m The Daddy and I Have Candy”.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/im-the-daddy-and-i-havecandy-live-ep/1552826547 Available on Spotify / Amazon / Apple IMDB: Http://www.Imdb.me/JasonStuart Website: Http://www.JasonStuart.com Series: Http://www.SmotheredTV.com Autobiography: Shut Up, I’m Talking!

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PSP FOCUS

>> POSTAL PALM SPRINGS PLEDGES FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS AAP – Food Samaritans announced that it has received a pledge of financial support from local retailer Postal Palm Springs.

During the month of March 2021, 20% of net USPS, UPS, and FedEx transactions at the shipping, mail and retail center will be donated to AAP – Food Samaritans. Postal Palm Springs is located at 1717 E. Vista Chino in Palm Springs, in the Stater Brothers Grocery store complex. This is the first promotion of this kind to be arranged for AAP – Food Samaritans.

“Even the smallest act of kindness has the power to change lives,” said Postal Palm Springs co-owners Steve Benavides and Michael Rueb. “Every act of charity contributes toward improving lives and the community in which we live. At Postal Palm Springs we feel a deep sense of responsibility to serve our communities.

We are passionate about our commitment and ask our community to help us meet our campaign goal of $35,000 in retail shipping sales.” “This kind of support from our valued friends at Postal Palm Springs demonstrates how businesses can create donation programs as a part of their daily routine,” said Mark Anton, CEO/Executive Director of AAP – Food Samaritans. “We are extremely grateful to Steve, Michael and all of the staff at Postal Palm Springs for helping us continue our mission of serving those Coachella valley residents who need help the most.” Please see the staff at Postal PS for details on eligible transactions. You may contact Postal Palm Springs at (760) 864-1401 or www.PostalPS.com For 24 years, Postal Palm Springs has been the “go-to” resource for packing, shipping, printing, and business service needs of the residents and businesses of Palm Springs. Their team of dedicated, professionally trained experts understands the meaning of SuperStar Customer Care – focusing on saving you time and money by

>> VIRTUAL RED DRESS Since we can’t hold our typical annual Red Dress Dress Red Dance Party this spring, we’re keeping the spirit alive with a Virtually Red Dress Weekend benefitting the official 10th anniversary of The Community Food Bank @ The Center, on March 20th & 21st, 2021.

Let’s have some fun, while keeping you motivated and your body moving, in preparation for when it is physically safe for us to once again gather together on the dance floor (hopefully later in 2021!).

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ensuring you get the right products and services at the right price – in a single, quick visit. Now in its 30th year of service to the community, AAP – Food Samaritans remains dedicated to providing nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses – helping the people in our community who need it the most. For more information, please call 760-325-8481 or visit www.aapfoodsamaritans.org

PSP FOCUS

We’re inviting all our friends in the Coachella Valley and beyond to choose a physically distanced activity of your choice and get active while engaging in peer-to-peer fundraising to raise $100,000 for our Community Food Bank! Fitness Influencer Craig Ramsay will guide us during that weekend with virtual warm-ups on both days, and will lead a Virtually Red Dress 5K Run/Walk. And we will close out the weekend with a virtual Head Over Heels dance party featuring DJ Galaxy.

Let’s keep the Red Dress spirit alive, paint the valley virtually RED, all while raising awareness for food insecurity and essential funds for your Community Food Bank @ The Center!

In the meantime, take care of yourselves, and take care of each other. We’re the only ones we’ve got. Whatever else might be happening in your life, know that we’re here for you. Please email raul@thecentercv.org if you have any questions. Visit https:// thecentercv.org/ for more info.

>> THE LIVING DESERT: WILDLIGHTS OF SPRING The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is excited to announce that WildLights will return to the Zoo – with a spring twist! WildLights of Spring will take place nightly, March 15-28, 2021, with light displays, delicious fare, and memorable moments.

“Although our holiday WildLights event was cut short, we are delighted to welcome our community to experience WildLights of Spring. Warmer weather, synchronized light displays, animals, and other surprises will offer guests a unique way to experience The Living Desert during the evening,” said Allen Monroe, President/CEO of The Living Desert.

WildLights of Spring will take guests on an illuminated journey around the Zoo with enchanting assortments of lighted animal sculptures and vantages of select habitats including the emus of the Australian Adventures. A portion of the African Safari loop will be open for guests to see cheetahs, zebras, African wild dogs, and other animals. The event also will feature new music for the light zones – including the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and Discovery Center. Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores

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PSP FOCUS

around a fire, for an additional fee. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

“The community is invited to join us for the return one of the desert’s favorite traditions – just during a different season,” said Mark Miller, Director of Park Services and Guest Relations at The Living Desert. “We expect to sell out all dates, so guests are encouraged to get their tickets early.”

For the continued safety of guests and staff, The Living Desert has implemented numerous precautions including required advanced reservations, limited guest capacity, required face coverings for all guests three years and older, and easy access to numerous hand washing and sanitizing stations. Tickets are on sale now at LivingDesert.org and advanced purchase is required.

>> THE GREATER PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU LAUNCHES TRAILICIOUS

WHAT IS TRAILICIOUS? With the Trailicious Pass, locals and visitors can enjoy hikes and bites and win prizes throughout Greater Palm Springs. Users can choose from 30 trails via the Trailicious pass, filtered by experience level or location, as well as receive suggestions for nearby things to do like outdoor art. Additionally, the pass features discounts and specials from a variety of Greater Palm Springs restaurants for take-out and alfresco dining. Users can check in while on their hike or redeem one of the special restaurant deals featured on the pass for a chance to win a $50 gift card from a Greater Palm Springs eatery.

With hundreds of miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding paths, Greater Palm Springs is a haven for hungry thrill-seekers who can pick up a snack, pack a takeout picnic or refuel after hiking by dining alfresco on one of our perfect patios.

“We are thrilled to be launching the Trailicious Pass to encourage

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visitors to experience our wide open spaces and wide array of culinary options,” said Colleen Pace, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at the CVB. HERE’S HOW: Go to www.TrailiciousGPS.com to register for your mobile exclusive passport with a collection of hiking trails and outdoor art installations. This will also get you special deals and discounts from participating restaurants to redeem during your visit.

Once you register, your passport will be instantly delivered to your phone via text and email. There’s no app to download. Your pass can be saved to your phone’s home screen for easy access.

When you visit a participating restaurant, present your phone to a staff member to redeem available offers. To check in to a hike, simply click “Check In” when you are within .50 miles of the trailhead.

Find more information on the pass and some of the suggested hikes at https://www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/trailiciousgps/

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MARCH 2021 39

FITNESS

KEEPING IT 100

BY JILL LANGHAM

Hello, my Masked Friends, Hope this finds you all feeling well and perhaps fully immunized, if that’s not an oxymoron! I have lots of doubts about this vaccine and its true value, purpose and effect but that’s not what is on my mind today.

Today’s issue of The Standard is as you’ve seen, its 100th issue! How wonderful is that? I am so proud of Nino Eilets and his informative, illuminating and insightful, online magazine. Kudos, my friend. Here’s to 100 more!

The number one hundred (100) got me thinking about an exercise routine that I believe I shared with you all at another time but I’ll remind you of it again. It is a technique that I have used many times over my bodybuilding career to challenge my body. You may want to try if for yourselves.

Rather than doing the standardized plan for working out body parts of opposing muscles, such as chest and triceps or back and biceps (the easier one to remember if you think B & B), where you’d typically do 3 sets of 8-15 repetitions, you’d instead do 100 repetitions of one of your exercises at a lower weight. For instance, let’s take a look at flat bench dumbbell presses for chest.

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In a normal situation I might grab 25- or 30-pound dumbbells and lift them 15 times. On my second set, I might increase the weigh to 32.5 pounds and do 15 reps. Then, if I’m feeling super strong, I might grab the 35-pound weights and attempt to do one more set of 15 reps to complete that exercise and move on to the next one for my chest.

However, when doing 100’s, I would most likely start with 22.5-pound weights if I’m feeling strong which means I’d eaten and hydrated myself well before heading to the gym after having had a good night’s sleep. It’s hard to know exactly where to start until you’ve done this routine a few times, so err on the side of lifting a lighter weight first.

Using the 22.5-pound weights, I would begin to lift them, pressing the weights using proper form until I knew I could not lift the weight one last time without potentially injuring myself. Often times I can do as many as 60-65 repetitions before needing to put the weights down. I would then do a 30-second stretch, grab my water bottle and take a small swig of glutamine-laced water and then pick up the weights to see how many more reps I can do before needing to stop again.

There were times that I reached 85 reps or so and took a quick break before completing all 100. If I can do the full 100 repetitions without stopping, I know that the weight was just too light and would make a note to start with 25-pound weights the next time. Again, form is the key to your success; so don’t try to be a hero. If you find yourself arching your lower back to lift the weights, you have lost the purpose of the exercise and are putting undo stress on your back and are no longer using your pectoral muscles!

It’s a very fascinating way to challenge and to push oneself to new heights. You may be surprised as to your strength or the difficulty of the exercise. I usually do this routine for at least 6-weeks whereas most of my plans are 12-weeks in length.

Remember that anytime you are trying a new routine you must give your body a chance to rest and recuperate. I found that certain body parts took much longer to recover than others. (Think of a strong glute workout two days after the workout!) Also, overuse of certain joints, like your elbows or knees can get injured while doing this routine. If they ache during the exercise, which is what happens to my left elbow, I have found that by no means should you continue with the repetitive motion.

The pain that I would get while doing overhead shoulder presses, even with a lighter weight did not benefit from me dropping down to a lower weight. Instead, it was inflammation that was causing the pain and therefore I had to let the joint rest as well as using either heat or cold to help the joint heal. So, please be very careful and do not fall victim to the, “No pain, no gain,” adage! You will be mad at yourself and me!

I hope you will be smart but at the same time give this technique a try. Of course, if you have not been able to get to a gym or workout much since the beginning of this pandemic which is only days away from our one-year anniversary here in California, then I strongly recommend that you DO NOT start with 100’s but instead slowly reintroduce your old plan at a much lower weight. Be safe, not foolish. The last thing you need to do is to injure yourself and tear a muscle, which would prevent you from working out for even longer!

All my best, Jill, still masked, still walking

MARCH 2021 41

BEATBOX

MARCH INTO THE SEASON’S HOTTEST CLUB TRACKS

BY JIMMY NEWSUM MARCH LAUNCHES THE SEASON OF LOVE. HERE ARE THE STEAMIEST LOVE SONGS THAT SHOULD BE ADDED TO YOUR PLAYLISTS THIS SPRING.

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“SWEET TOOTH” Zāna Zāna’s new single from her This is Autumn EP is a classic love connection story, before social media and dating apps, when cats would cruise clubs, find that hot guy, dance, and get to know each other. In “Sweet Tooth”, Zāna forgets to exchange digits with the fella and is left with those dreaded ‘what if?’” feelings. Oh, the agony.

But it sure makes for a hot, sultry pop track with an R&B vibe that is reminiscent of the greats by Toni Braxton and Sade.

“LOVE YAH” Jack Tracy The title track to Jack Tracy’s soon-tobe released EP is an ode to gay nightlife.

Drawing inspiration from early 2000’s Justin Timberlake, the R&B-tinged dance track with its funk vibe was penned by Tracy while he was feeling particularly isolated from months spent quarantining alone in his NYC apartment. Tracy hopes “Love Yah” serves as a reminder that there is light at the end of this dark COVID tunnel and that if we all do our part, the end will come much sooner. Be sure to check out the music video that features legendary NYC drag queen Sherry Vine.

“UNDERNEATH MY SKIN” Justin Utley Hard muscled Ultey gives his vocals a work out, channeling Adele, in this latest track from his Scars album. “Underneath My Skin” is a passionately theatrical song about heartache, betrayal, and the feelings that linger long after the final goodbye of a lost love. The song will resonate with anyone who has been at the difficult end of a relationship’s rope, forced to finally cut ties with a love they imagined would last forever.

“CELADON HAZE” Oracle666 Oracle666, a self-identified non-binary queer femme, makes her musical debut with a Bjork-inspired ethereal trance/pop track about the loves who inspired but didn’t cherish our hearts. Produced by Meviu§, “Celadon Haze” is dizzying, exciting and an emotional trip. It is danceable, with a spritely energy, giving listeners the sensation of being at a rave in a grungy Brooklyn warehouse while floating high above the celestial clouds.

“DO IT” John Duff John Duff’s new single harkens back to early 2000’s house music but its message is pertinent today. It is a love song to self and a call-to-action to all who are afraid to pursue their dreams out of fear of public perception. Says Duff, “I am here to prove that I can keep coming out, falling on my face, and surviving.” He hopes the song will motivate listeners to do something good for themselves. The cute as a button crooner is certainly feeling good about himself in the music video for “Do It.” He dances around his living room in six-inch stilettos.

MARCH 2021 43

MUSIC

MARILYN McCOO AND BILLY DA

ICONIC COUPLE ARE BACK ON THE

BY ANDRE CARTHEN

Music Icons, multiple Grammy Award-winners, and multiplatinum selling artists Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. today released their new single, Silly Love Songs. The new offering is from the couple’s highly anticipated first studio album in three decades, Blackbird: Lennon-McCartney Icons, due this spring.

Blackbird: Lennon-McCartney Icons marks the couple’s first album with Encore Endeavor 1 (EE1), a subsidiary of Kathy Ireland® Worldwide (kiWW®), which has a multi-recording agreement with music giant BMG. This project also marks kiWW’s second collaboration with BMG, with the first one making music history after Janet Jackson’s Unbreakable, skyrocketed to Billboard’s top spot on the album chart.

The couple enjoys tremendous success through the years as recording artists, performers, and authors. They have received 7 Grammy Awards and earned 15 gold and 3 platinum records.

“Silly Love Songs is one of our favorite Paul & Linda McCartney classics. When it was released, we’d play it in the car, driving everywhere from the Watts Towers, near Marilyn’s first job at the War on Poverty, to down Pacific Coast Highway, hitting the beach.

After listening to it multiple times, we’d turn the cassette player off, and sing it a cappella to each other, trading verses back and forth.

We knew one day we’d record it. One special memory is that Silly Love Songs was a hit the same year we released You Don’t Have To Be A Star. We felt a little bit competitive and were really happy that You Don’t Have To Be A Star was number one in the same year.

We had a funny expression back and forth in those days ... we’d just look at each other and say ‘Silly!’ and start to crack up. ‘76 was a great year for music. Diana Ross’ ‘Love Hangover’, Stevie Wonder’s ‘I Wish’, Lou Rawls’ ‘You’ll Find Another Love Like Mine’, the great Aretha Franklin with ‘Giving Him Something He Can Feel’ were all big records at that time. We think we felt the connection because Paul had come from The Beatles, was married to Linda … and we were married, and had just left the original 5th Dimension the year before,” said Marilyn and Billy.

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“We chose Silly Love Songs as a Valentine’s Day message for everyone who has ever been in love. No matter your age, or how you live your life, it’s important to keep love alive and to have those private silly moments … especially at this time. We like to enjoy each other. We are still living a great romance and love story, and as that beautiful song says - ‘What’s wrong with that?’” added the couple, who celebrated their 51st anniversary this past July.

“Marilyn and Billy are pop culture icons, whose music is listened to by millions of people, all over the world, every year, according to Spotify. They are national treasures. We have very few artists today that are able to do what Marilyn & Billy do vocally, and even fewer with their history,” says Kathy Ireland, Chair, CEO of kathy ireland® Worldwide, who co-founded Encore Endeavor 1 with Nic Mendoza, the heir to a family with generations of extraordinary

AVIS JR.

E CHARTS WITH SILLY LOVE SONGS

musical success. “Marilyn and Billy have been a part of our family for a long time. They have timeless hits, changed the sound of music, and seven Grammys in every genre from pop to R&B. Their voices are powerful, both literally and figuratively. We are beyond thrilled to share with the world their first studio album in three decades, and it is a great pleasure to do it with our great partners, the incredible team at BMG, and of course their CEO, Hartwig Masuch. Silly Love Songs is a Valentine to all the lovers everywhere, from the first couple of Pop & Soul. Marilyn & Billy are inspired by great artists, and Silly Love Songs is an homage to the true spirit of love.” Ms. Ireland enjoys unusual success as a supermodel-turned-Super mogul … turned super artist manager. Ms. Ireland’s past and present clients include, Elizabeth Taylor, Janet Jackson, Vanessa Williams, Kenny Loggins, The Pointer Sisters, Ed Begly Jr., and Diahann Carroll. Ms. Ireland serves on many boards including the advisory board for

Serena Williams’ company, the WNBA Board of Advocates, and is one of the first women to serve on the NFLPI. “Silly Love Songs? Such a cool, contemporary, up-tempo dance track with some retro vibe layered in,” says Nic Mendoza who produced Silly Love Songs and the entire upcoming studio album.

“Marilyn & Billy deliver vocal notes that are phenomenal for any one of any era, and at this time in their careers, the music world is without another husband and wife performing duo of their extraordinary talent. Billy leads the track with his iconic, soul sound that brought the two of them and the original 5th Dimension such great success.

Marilyn’s crystalline, beautiful soprano and Billy’s powerful, rhythmic grit are awesome ... when these two voices combine, it’s unbelievable ... a powerful blend, that keeps it serious, silly, or even sexy, depending on the track. We think this music is going

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MUSIC

to surprise a lot of people. I wanted to work with Marilyn & Billy because their contribution to sonic culture deserves appreciation and great recognition. They have too many firsts to even acknowledge. I discovered them through our family’s collection of vinyl, and dreamed of working with them. Kathy made the introduction, and my passion for their music convinced them to go back into the studio and find out what we could do together. The times we are living through helped shape every selection. My love of great music is generational from my grandfather, Jaime Mendoza-Nava, who was a legendary composer, to my uncle René Elizondo Jr., who crafted some of the most famous music, choreography, and videos of all time. Having had the privilege of working with artists from Vanessa Williams to Robin Thicke to Janet Jackson, I’m extremely proud of this album, and so honored to be producing Marilyn & Billy for kathy ireland Worldwide and our company, EE1, for BMG. We chose Silly Love Songs as the first single for our album, Blackbird, because, it felt like the song we needed to celebrate Marilyn & Billy’s Renaissance with music, some funk, and fun. We’re facing challenging times, and it’s great to hear music like this right now ... despite their maturity, Marilyn & Billy still have the ability to be romantic and silly in the studio ... I’ve got stories that I ain’t gonna tell ... at least not yet!” finished Mendoza.

Silly Love Songs is available on all streaming platforms including Spotify and Apple Music www.mccoodavis.lnk.to/SillyLoveSongs www.mccoodavis.com Instagram: @mccoodavis Twitter: @mccoodavis Facebook: facebook.com/McCooDavis/

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ABOUT MARILYN McCOO AND BILLY DAVIS JR. Marilyn and Billy, who celebrated their 51st anniversary this past July (2020), are the authors of “Up, Up and Away, How we found love, faith and lasting marriage in the entertainment world.”

The book details how they weathered opposite backgrounds, alcoholism, and the glamorous lifestyle and serves as an inspiration to fans and married couples alike. Their recent projects also include the 25th Anniversary Tour of the Colors of Christmas, with Peabo Bryson, Ruben Studdard, and Jody Watley; the Mister Rogers Tribute Album with Sandy Patti, Lee Greenwood, Vanessa Williams, and Jon Secada, “Thank you Mister Rogers,” which won a Parents choice Award this past November; and performing at the Celebration of the Music of Jimmy Webb at Carnegie Hall.

PHOTO REWIND 100 EDITIONS OF MEMORIES PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

MARCH 2021 47

PHOTO REWIND 100 EDITIONS OF MEMORIES PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND 100 EDITIONS OF MEMORIES PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

MARCH 2021 49

PHOTO REWIND 100 EDITIONS OF MEMORIES PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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PHOTO REWIND 100 EDITIONS OF MEMORIES PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE

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