The Standard Magazine

Taylor Made

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE FABULOUS TAYLOR DAYNE

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BIG BEAR ADVENTURE WEEKEND Celebrating 5 years of Furry Fun AUGUST, 2013 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 8 theStandardps.com

CONTENTS VOLUME 1, ISSUE 8

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twitter.com/theStandardPS TAYLOR DAYNE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW DESIGN BY MAYA KALABIC

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Volume 1 Issue 8 COVER GREAT DAYNE - THE FABULOUS TAYLOR DAYNE PERFORMS AT BIG BEAR ADVENTURE FEATURE BIG BEAR ADVENTURE CELEBRATES ITS 5TH YEAR FORD FOCUS COLTON FORD REVEALS “THE WAY I AM” TRAVEL TAKING YOU ON A MUSICAL JOURNEY BEAT BOX BRINGS YOU SUMMER HEAT ON THE DANCE FLOOR CALENDAR LOCAL, NATIONAL, INTERNATIONAL 3’D’S DINE, DRINK & DANCE AUGUST, 2013 3

COMMENTARY

MUSIC = LIFE A wise man, (Plato to be exact) once said, “Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything”. I don’t know about you but music has always been an integral part of my life, ups, downs, happiness, sadness, the whole gamut. With that in mind, this month The Standard Magazine embarks on a musical journey of its own. First off we catch up with powerhouse pop icon from the 80’s, Taylor Dayne, who is bringing her dynamic style to Big Bear to headline the Big Bear Adventure Weekend 2013 event. And speaking of Big Bear, the fur will fly as this fun event celebrates its 5th year. This year promises to be the best yet! Beat Box lets us in on the latest and hottest tracks raising temperatures on dance floors worldwide, we talk to sexy Colton Ford about his newest release and Steven Housman dishes the inside dirt on what to look for at the MTV Video Music awards. In addition, take a trip up and down the West Coast as George Zander goes in search of the best music fests to hit before Summer’s end. Plus much more. It’s all music to my ears; and we hope to yours as well.

The Standard Magazine 1111 Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760-831-4869 Nino Eilets Publisher Luciano McNulty Editor Maya Kalabic Art Director Photographer David A. Lee Contributors Mark Dawson, Steve Harris, Chris Heritage, Dennis Mason, Gerolamo Viola, Steve Housman, George Zander, Jesse Melgar, Forrest P. Murphy, Jimmy Newsum & Ken Toth www.thestandardps.com Editorial Credits : BrandPoint, Huffington Post, LGBTQ Nation & Project Publicity The Standard Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinions of the Standard or its staff, advertisers or readers with exception of editorials.

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

COVER

TAYLOR DAYNE TELLS IT TO OUR HEARTS

BY CHRIS ASTRALA Taylor Dayne gives new meaning to the term “Renaissance Woman.” Having excelled as singer, actor, songwriter, and activist, this dynamic artist’s unique vocal style has earned her numerous bestselling gold and platinum albums, which produced seventeen Top 20 singles, among them number one hits such as “Tell It To My Heart”, “Love Will Lead You Back,” and “Prove Your Love To Me.” During the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Gay Games VIII Cologne, Taylor brought the house down with the anthem “Facing a Miracle,” which culminated in a five-minute standing ovation.

During the course of her career, Taylor has sold more than 75 million albums and singles worldwide, garnered three Grammy nominations, and appeared in many film and television roles. On Broadway she has performed in Elton John’s, Aida and soon will appear as Grizabella in the musical Cats as part of the Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival beginning August 21 in Auburn, NY. Taylor is also an established songwriter, having written or co-written many hit songs including, “Unstoppable,” “Beautiful,” and the Tina Turner hit, “Whatever You Want.” Later this month she will be headlining in Big Bear at the Big Bear Adventure Weekend event.

I had the extreme pleasure of talking with Taylor, and as we spoke I realized how down to earth this icon truly is.

Q: Taylor, how have you been and what have you been up to?

I’ve been well, just been busy the last three months doing tons of tour dates and now signing up for Cats, the musical, and preparing in rehearsal.

Q: Last year you celebrated the 25th anniversary of the release of your mega-hit “Tell it to my Heart,” did you do anything special to commemorate that milestone?

Actually, last year was the 25th year anniversary of the release of “Tell It To My Heart” and the album, Tell It To my Heart, my first release for Arista records. The single came out in August and the album released the following year, so it was an incredible time. I’ve re-recorded my greatest hits and am figuring out how to package it and release my records with new music and remixes to celebrate 25 years!

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Q: You have a huge LGBT fan base, what do you think your connection is with your fans?

To know that I have this incredible fan base in the LGBTQ community and to know how loyal and supportive they’ve been to me in my career for the last 25 years makes me feel so genuinely touched and grateful to the community and the strides they have made in their own homes and families within their communities.

Q: I recently revisited Tig Notaro’s routine where you surprise her at the end. Was she aware that you were going to come out on stage or was it a truly “Got ya!” moment? Hysterical, by the way.

HA! Tig’s routine is truly one of the funniest I’ve heard and watched over the years ... so when I was approached by them to perform a song live and to skit with her after her live performance of the skit I jumped at the opportunity. She had no idea and was so surprised. It was amazing!!

Q: You’ll be performing in Big Bear Lake at the Big Bear Adventure weekend event later this month. What are you looking forward to most about this event?

When I signed on to do Big Bear I was in New York doing Cats. So now I am looking forward to seeing the mountains and the fresh air and my loyal fans for a fun show.

Q: Congratulations on landing the iconic role of Grizabella (Glamour Cat) in the production of Cats. Will you bring a new spin to the character?

Many great performers have performed the character of Grizabella, and I am honored to step into the character and give it the best performance I possibly can and very excited. I am going keep it as authentic as possible.

Q: We’ve seen you on several cooking shows lately. Are you a good cook? And what is your favorite thing to whip up in the kitchen?

Well, I thank you for the question, because I certainly don’t consider myself a great cook but rather a very inspired and a very aspiring cook to be. I learned so much doing celebrity cook-off and,

COVER

AUGUST, 2013 7

COVER

of course, being friends with some of the biggest chefs in the world and restaurateurs doesn’t hurt.

Q: Final question: Can you tell us five things about Taylor that our readers might not know ?

I’m a mom of twins, a boy and a girl, who are 11 years old.

I was born Leslie Wunderman in New York Hospital and raised for

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two years in the Bronx before moving to Long island.

I’ve lived in Los Angeles for the last 12 years.

I live for being outdoors and in nature. It is the greatest gift in my life and to our planet and brings me the greatest peace.

I’m sort of a little hippie girl at heart, but I also enjoy the finer things in life!

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BENEFITING

FEATURE

BEAT THE HEAT

& HEAD TO BIG BEAR ADVENTURE!

BY STEVO HARRIS

It’s a Friday in the middle of August, the temps are well over 110 degrees and you’re thinking “what am I going to do this weekend?”

Follow the guys North to Big Bear Adventure Weekend, in Big Bear Lake California only 90 minutes from Palm Springs and Los Angeles. The brainchild and creator of this event Steve (Stevo) Harris celebrates his fifth anniversary with this event and the city of Big Bear Lake is ready to help the Bears and all their friends celebrate. This year the Meet

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and Greet held on Friday at sunset, (usually held at the host hotel: the Northwoods Resort) will be held on Pineknot Marina, on Big Bear Lake.

The events beer sponsor, Miller Lite will be on hand and bar sponsors, Alibi East owners and creators of the Bear Cave in Pomona will provide music to dance to while the sunsets on Big Bear Lake. Food will be served. ($10 entry without pass)

FEATURE

If you want to get there a day early, Chad’s Place hosts their own “Meet and Greet” for the Bears on Thursday evening serving wings and drink specials. Friday night the Uniform and Gear dance DJed by Jon Williams of San Diego starts the weekend with a bang at the host hotel.

Two pool parties follow on Saturday and Sunday at the Northwood’s pool with music by Palm Springs DJ Chub Jim and Saturday night Big Bear Adventure Weekend and Miller Lite proudly present an evening with the incomparable Taylor Dayne and retro dance with well-known DJ Peter Savas. (tickets on sale at the door $25) Big Bear Adventure Weekend has attracted men of all ages from all over California and as far away as London. When asked what attracts his guests to this event?, promoter Steve Harris replies : We get a large amount of return attendees as Big Bear Adventure is a grass roots event. There is an energy that is hard to describe but the town welcomes us with open arms, and the guys leave with new friendships and a sense of having a true vacation. There is very little if any sexual tension there.

It’s all about having a blast. I wanted the guys to leave having a true experience and I am proud knowing that everyone leaves happy and look forward to the following year. We even have a masseur giving lessons to couples on how to give each other therapeutic massage on Saturday and Sunday morning. “ There are day passes for all pool and dance events. Guests may also purchase “all event” passes at registration on Friday evening from 5-8PM at the Northwoods Resort. Only a few rooms may be left at the host hotel, but there are many small cabins and guesthouses at very reasonable prices still available.

Stevo is also the lead promoter of Palm Springs’ newest event in February 2014, International Bear Convergence. With an expected attendance of over 2500, this will bring a new visitor to Palm Springs and with 30 years of event planning under his belt, the city of Palm Springs is right behind Stevo.

The Standard is a sponsor of Big Bear Adventure Weekend and you can find out more information by going to the web site WWW.BBAWEEKEND.COM OR PHONE (760) 325-2273.

AUGUST, 2013 11

LISTEN UP

MTV NOMINATIONS…

WITH A WELCOME COMEBACK TO POP MUSIC!

BY STEVEN HOUSMAN

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, MACKLEMORE & RYAN LEWIS

It’s been an interesting and refreshing year so far. The reason?

Top 40 Radio has returned to its roots. In other words – Pop Music. The sound of pop music that once carried an actual tune and one could hum to, and that ruled since Top 40 radio dominated the airwaves over 50 years ago has returned.

As we take a look and listen back to the first half of 2013, the “sound” of music being aired and consumed today is a throwback to a bygone era. In other words, the majority of music that is being played this year includes singers that can actually SING! And whether you love them or hate them, reality television programs such as American Idol and The Voice are applauded for reintroducing singers to the

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national airwaves. I’m not just speaking of the contestants, i.e. Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Lambert and the undeniable success of 2012 winner Phillip Phillips, I’m speaking of artists such as Bruno Mars, Robin Thicke, P!nk, Beyoncé and a slew of others who have experienced wonderfully wild success with their hit songs this past year. These aren’t manufactured artists - these are vocalists that have sidestepped the trickery of studio magic. I’m not implying that every artist doesn’t have a little sweetening in his or her mix, I’m just suggesting that these artists can hold their own singing live - ya know, the way music was intended and performed all the way through the 80s, with some very rare exceptions over the past 20-plus years.

LISTEN UP With the announcement of the 2013 MTV nominations, the proof is in the pudding and the magic is back in the music. MTV has never been taken as seriously as the Grammys, which has always provided the music world with the highest standards, but the announcements of the recent nominations and the artists and songs are a proven fact that real pop music has returned. And if my predictions are accurate, it’s returned for good.

The two recording acts that lead the nominations with six each are Justin Timberlake and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. Coming in a

Taylor Swift is still “Red” hot with her grown up single “I Knew You Were Trouble,” Miley Cyrus’ “We Can’t Stop,” P!nk feat. Nate Ruess with their former No. 1 hit “Just Give Me A Reason” and Demi Lovato’s “Heart Attack.” Think P!nk. My money’s on her in this category.

Best Pop Video nominees reflect many of the aforementioned names with the most exciting harmonies of the decade belonging to Fun. and their video and song “Carry On,” and Selena Gomez’ “Come And Get It.” This category is a two-way race between Justin Timberlake’s “Mirrors” and Bruno Mars’ “Locked Out Of Heaven.”

BRUNO MARS

close second is my personal favorite, Bruno Mars, with his infectious song and video “Locked Out Of Heaven.” His summer-lite song, “Treasure,” also earned Mars a nod for Best Choreography. “Heaven” received three nods which includes Best Pop Video, Best Male Video and Video of the Year. Other contenders for Best Male Video include Justin Timberlake’s “Mirrors,” Robin Thicke Featuring T.I. and Pharrell with the song of the summer (and a lock on the No. 1 spot for the past six weeks) “Blurred Lines,” that carries a most noticeable homage to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, with its groove and most prominent “woos.” It’s a song that you love to love, some love to hate, but undeniably, it’s hard to get out of your head. Rounding out the category is Ed Sheeran’s “Lego House” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Swimming Pools.” I’m going with Mars in this category considering he’s a personal favorite but also an artist who spells l-o-n-g-e-v-i-t-y in this business, which is a rare event.

Best Female Video nominees include the queen of the past decade Rihanna feat. Mikky Ekko, with the haunting ballad “Stay.”

ROBIN THICKE

The big award of the night, Video of the Year, nominees are Timberlake’s “Mirrors,” Macklemore & Ryan feat. Wanz, “Thrift Shop,” Bruno Mars “Locked Out Of Heaven,” Robin Thicke feat. T.I. and Pharrell “Blurred Lines” and Taylor Swift “I Knew You Were Trouble.” This category is the real horse race with no clear winner.

If I had to choose, it would come down to Timberlake or Mars. If by chance Thicke wins, it would because of its immense popularity. If Swift pulls a rabbit out of her blonde locks, let’s just hope that Kanye West’s presence will be nowhere in sight to snatch it away again.

The MTV Video Music Awards airs August 25 live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Be there when the winners perform and are announced, and remember…I told you so. Insert smiley face emoticon here!

©2013 Steven M. Housman. All Rights Reserved.

AUGUST, 2013 13

BEAT BOX

WHAT’S SPINNING

& RAISING TEMPERATURES IN CLUBS

BY JIMMY NEWSUM If you can’t get enough of the summer heat, check out what’s spinning on gay dance floors. From the deepest, grooviest, most heartfelt vocal tracks, to the head throbbing, pounding and pulsating heavy beats, these are the top scorchers raising temperatures in clubs right now.

“Beat Don’t Stop” JASON WALKER Out Music Award winner, Jason Walker returns to the dance floor with a deep groove that hypnotizes with lush textures and pulsating layers of beats by acclaimed dance producer C-Rod. Currently #5 on the Billboard dance chart, the track continues Walker’s dance floor dominance while simultaneously aiming to inspire unity this pride season. Walker expertly attacks high scaling notes few other male artists would attempt leaving the beat with no other choice but to keep pumping. Remixes by Donald Glaude, Chad Jack, Gustavo Scorpio, C-Rod, Wayne G, Lior Maan, Strobe, The Degenerates and DJ Ting.

“Guess What?”

CAZWELL AND LUCIANNA Queer sex symbol Cazwell explains just how hawt he is in this saucy electro pop romp produced by up-and-coming Russian duo Marina & Fagault.

The boastful yet joyous lyrics mark a new direction for the rapper, best known for blazing up YouTube with his comedic hip-hop rhymes. This latest is a gnarly, horn-ridden anthem with contagiously catchy lyrics and a hard-pounding beat. Cazwell and

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Luciana truly are hotter than a chili pepper.

“Two of Hearts” DINA DELICIOUS Here is a pop tune that stands the test of time for its infectious, catchy, uplifting melodies. The Stacey Q original was scrumptious in the 80s. Leave it to Dina Delicious, the fun-loving double d trans artist whose music steers bubblegum pop into cotton candy territory, to make it even sweeter. With breathy vocals and mellifluous beats, Delicious pumps new life into the classic with a dance track that is easy to jump to and sing along with.

“Kill The Lights” SARIAH The Queen of Hearts delivers another colorful highenergy club anthem. This one celebrates the dark mysteries of the dance floor. Produced

by DJ Steve Cova, written by Marisol Credle and featuring remixes by A-Lab and DeHasse, “Kill the Lights” is the follow-up to last summer’s “All About Sex”. In what has become the 25-year-old singer’s staple, she mixes passionate lyrics with hard pounding beats. The result is a track sure to set dance floors on fire this season.

“Come With Us” SASHA GRADIVA This latest club anthem from the platinum blonde rocker continues

BEAT BOX the movement started by artists like Ke$ha and Gaga that welcome the disenfranchised into the party. Produced by platinum hit maker Tricky Stewart (the man behind Rihanna’s “Umbrella” and Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies”, the track is thunderously stomping dance pop at its best. Gradiva’s exhilarating vocals over the excellent production literally sets the dance floor ablaze.

“Time to Move On” EMII The colorful rocker whose ode to Stiletto heels quickly became a gay dance floor anthem last summer returns this Pride with a sugary-sweet, synthed-out party record written by Grammy Awardwinning songwriter Crystal Nicole. Emii’s booming vocals rise above the hard pounding beat as she sings the ultimate girl done wrong bitch track. You go, girl! In the immortal words of RuPaul, If you don’t love yourself, how

in the hell you gonna love somebody else? New remixes by A-Lab, Cutmore, and Monikkr.

“I Will Carry You” SHARA STRAND Strand has made a name for herself by being the antithesis of the shredded, processed, and robotized divas that rule today’s dance floors.

She has true vocal power and proves it in her latest track. With its strident beat and pinging guitars, the radio edit of “I Will Carry You” is a straight-up love ballad, reminiscent of Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me”. But when given the DJ Escape treatment, it becomes a powerhouse dance anthem sure to carry you into your own personal heaven. New remixes also by Klubjumpers, D1 Music, Mike Rizzo, Edson Pride, DJ Corey and SoulBeats.

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AUGUST, 2013 15

FEATURE

FORD FOCUS

COLTON FORD REVEALS “THE WAY I AM”

BY MARK DAWSON

In his new album, Colton Ford reveals his story of coming to terms with the many layers that make up the silver daddy musclegod we all know and love.

Of course, he is best known for his short but prolific time in porn.

Colton Ford filmed twelve movies in ten months - but that was over ten years ago. Since then, he has dabbled in film (Another Gay Sequel), television (starring in three seasons of Here! TV’s vampire series, The Lair) and stage (performing Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors Tour and Off Broadway in “Little House on the Ferry”). He has also released a slew of records –his latest, out now from Peace Bisquit, is his third full-length album.

Titled The Way I Am, the album features collaborations with such dance music notables as Chris Willis, Ultra Naté, and Razor & Guido. Colton Ford says it is the record he has always wanted to release. We love it, too – and not only for it’s perfect blend of dance, electronica, house, pop, funk, R&B, and jazz. The album’s title gives us a rare opportunity to get answers to the questions Colton Ford fans have always wanted to know about the multi-talented star.

How are you as a lover?

COLTON FORD: I’m loving, caring, supportive, understanding, thoughtful, and patient and giving.

How are you as a friend?

Loving, caring, supportive, understanding. Basically, all I am as a lover.

What makes you angry?

Ignorance, unconsciousness and lack of empathy.

Are you someone who will fight for what you believe is right?

Yes. What makes you smile?

My adorable little niece, Haley.

Anytime. I don’t like putting something off just because it may be difficult to hear.

Do you enjoy a nice bubble bath every now and then?

I’m not really a bath guy.

Are you set in your ways?

In certain ways, I guess I can be. For instance, I like things tidy and in their place. I do have my opinions, but I’m open for discussion and I’m able to look at things from different points of view. If something resonates with me and makes sense, I can be open to a new perspective.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

I don’t necessary feel guilty about it, but I do like to smoke pot.

What is one thing you would like to improve about yourself?

I would like to become more conscious of the caretaker within me.

I struggle at times with boundaries, especially with my love object.

Whom do you miss the most in the world?

My mother. She was the kindest, sweetest woman I have ever known, and she had an amazing ability to accept just about anyone.

Do you like to dress up or are you more of a jeans and t-shirt kind of guy?

Jeans and tank tops.

How do you measure success?

Contentment.

Would you prefer to read a book or wait for its movie to come out?

I hate to say this because I do like to read, but I really love movies.

Are you someone who stops and smells the roses?

Not as often as I should. I’m working on it though.

Do you prefer to text or call?

I do both, but prefer live exchanges the most.

When is the best time to approach you with bad news?

What gives you the heebie-jeebies?

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Little bugs that move very fast!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

If I’m in a relationship, I love to hang out with my partner. Also, I enjoy connecting with loved ones and friends, going out to dinner and watching movies.

Are you a spiritual person?

Yes, I am spiritual, but I’m not religious. I feel we have no idea what’s really going on in our universe, but I believe that there is something much greater at play that binds everything together.

Whom do you love to snuggle with when you’re feeling blue?

When I’m in a relationship, I like to snuggle with my partner. If I’m alone, I take care of myself and do the things that I know will help me feel better. Sometimes calling my therapist, if need be.

How many dates before you sleep with someone?

Hell, I’ve never needed a date to do that. How many dates does it take before a relationship begins? That’s the real question.

What is the worst thing about getting older?

Losing people, you love.

What are the first three things you do when you wake up?

I open my eyes, yawn and grab my package.

Will you slap a guy that tries to touch you inappropriately?

Not unless he doesn’t respect my wishes when I ask him to stop.

Even then, I probably wouldn’t slap him. I would just walk away or maybe push him if the situation called for it.

Ultimately, Mr. Colton Ford, how do you feel about the way that you are?

I love my strengths; my weaknesses and me.

COLTON FORD’S THE WAY I AM IS AVAILABLE ON ITUNES NOW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.PEACEBISQUIT.COM.

AUGUST, 2013 17

PSP FOCUS COMMUNITY GRAND MARSHALS ANNOUNCED FOR 27TH ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS PRIDE CELEBRATION

groups, clubs, and businesses. They also organize a broad range of lesbian friendly cultural, sporting and social events for women.

Community Grand Marshals Mark Jones and Brian Vatcher developed and spearheaded the concept of bringing Forever Marilyn to Palm Springs and they can frequently be seen contributing to the community through a variety of volunteer activities. Together they manage the Tuesday Nite Social Club, which has allowed them to share their talent with the Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) coproducing events kicking off and/or wrapping up D.A.P.’s Dining Out For Life, or organizing one of the top group fundraising teams for the Desert AIDS Walk. They also volunteer as hosts and ambassadors for Dining Out For Life.

The 2013 Community Grand Marshals for the 27th annual Greater Palm Springs Pride Parade are Melanie Jones, Ellen Zimmerman, Mark Jones and Brian Vatcher. The Community Grand Marshals are recognized for their positive and lasting impact on our community. The parade is scheduled for 10:00 am Sunday, November 3rd, along Palm Canyon Drive through the heart of Downtown Palm Springs. Community Grand Marshals Melanie Jones and Ellen Zimmerman have been active in the LGBT community for decades and are credited for their efforts to bring women together to express themselves through various social networking opportunities and creating community in the Coachella Valley. From volunteering and working in the LGBT arena Melanie and Ellen, serve active roles in the community.

Their history of volunteerism includes Melanie leading various groups including lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender conversation groups and Ellen’s facilitating coming out & transgender groups, as well as, Lesbian Chat and pro bono counseling.

Together they own and manage an online publication and directory providing women information about lesbian friendly events,

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Mark and Brian have also served on the host committee of numerous charity events including The Red Dress Party for the LGBT Center of the Desert and for three consecutive years, they’ve been on the host committee for D.A.P.’s Midsummer Dance Party. They have also donated their time as judges in numerous community events including the Mr. DiGS Bar Leather Competition and the annual Halloween costume contest at the former Rainbow Bar & Grill.

The Grand Marshals will be recognized in the Pride parade and at the Pride Honors Awards ceremony on October 4, at the Hyatt Palm Springs. The prestigious Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards are presented annually to individuals to honor the work they have put into furthering the causes of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and their allies..

Greater Palm Springs Pride announced the selection of the individuals who will receive the 2013 Pride Honors. Recipients to be honored at the annual celebration will include a photographer, human rights activists, an author, community leaders, outstanding volunteers and an organization that has advocated full equality for forty years.

Lifetime Achievement Awards will be presented to celebrated writer, photographer and activist Tom Bianchi, internationally acclaimed author Katherine V. Forrest, and Ginny Foat, recognizing

PSP FOCUS her long commitment to social justice, LGBT, and women’s rights activism. Lambda Legal is the 2013 Advocate of the Year celebrating forty years as the nation’s first legal organization dedicated to achieving full equality for lesbian and gay people.

Comedian Shann Carr, along with designer Christopher Kennedy, will be recognized with Spirit of Stonewall Community Service Awards.

Michael Green and Stephen Boyd will be honored as Volunteers of the Year, and Lucy Debardelaben and Gail Christian will be recognized with the Spirit of Pride Award for advancing equality, promoting diversity and celebrating the strength and talent of the LGBT community. The 2013 Friend of Pride Award will be presented to local PFLAG Co-Presidents Carol and Mike Balasa. Filmmakers Katy and Sam Wilkerson will be the 2013 Spirit of Stonewall Special Guest recognizing their work telling a story of Pride in their documentary, “The Pride of Palm Springs.”

The awards reception will take place October 4, 2013, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at the Hyatt Palm Springs located at 285 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. Tickets are available online at bit.ly/honor2013.

Proceeds from the reception will go to the Pride LGBT Landmark Monument Fund to establish a Wall of Honor landmark monument to honor and remember important local LGBT community members.

ABOUT GREATER PALM SPRINGS PRIDE Greater Palm Springs Pride (pspride.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community enhancement organization founded to promote the public education and public awareness of individual rights and civil liberties of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and to promote the history, diversity and future prosperity of the Greater Palm Springs LGBT community. “It’s Time” is this year’s Pride celebration theme. For information about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities visit the web site at: PSPride.org. The 2013 Palm Springs Pride Celebration is November 1-3.

AUGUST, 2013 19

NEWS

NATIONAL

LGBT ADVOCATES TARGET RUSSIAN VODKAS IN RESPONSE TO ANTI-GAY LEGISLATION

LGBTQ NATION

LGBT activists, led by Seattle-based advice columnist and “It Gets Better” campaign founder Dan Savage, have launched a boycott of Russian vodka in response to anti-gay legislation signed

by Russian president Vladimir Putin, and increased violence against LGBT citizens in Russia.

“There is something we can do right here, right now, in Seattle and other U.S. cities to show our solidarity with Russian queers and their allies,” wrote Savage on Wednesday. “And to help to draw international attention to the persecution of gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, trans people, and straight allies in Putin’s increasingly fascistic Russia: DUMP RUSSIAN VODKA.” Stolichnaya (Stoli), the most popular brand of Russian vodka, is at the center of the boycott, with activists promoting the campaign on social media and using hash tags “#DumpStoli” and “#DumpRussianVodka” on Twitter.

Since the boycott was first suggested, gay bars in Seattle, San Francisco, West Hollywood, Chicago, and in other cities across the

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country, have been removing Russian vodkas from their offerings, posting signs that read, “Proudly serving non-Russian vodkas.”

On Thursday, Stolichnaya came out swinging at the Russian government with a message of support for the global LGBT community, saying it “stands strong and proud … against the actions and beliefs of the Russian government.”

“Stolichnaya Vodka has always been, and continues to be a fervent supporter and friend to the LGBT community,” Val Mendeleev, CEO of Stoli parent SPI Group, said in a statement.

“We fully support and endorse your objectives to fight against prejudice in Russia. In the past decade, SPI has been actively advocating in favor of freedom, tolerance and openness in society, standing very passionately on the side of the LGBT community and will continue to support any effective initiative in that direction,” the letter read.

Mendeleev attempted to distance the company from its Russian roots by saying that, while Stoli is made from Russian ingredients, they are blended and bottled at a facility in Latvia.

NEWS

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL But activists say Stoli’s response, while highlighting its marketing efforts and sponsorships of pride events in the West, offers no commitments to lobbying for LGBT rights with the Russian government.

“From this letter it’s clear they’ve done and they only plan on doing squat,” said Savage.

The boycott is the second campaign targeting Russia for its treatment of LGBT citizens; gay rights advocates in the U.S. are also calling for a boycott of the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, also a direct response to the country’s anti-gay legislation.

On June 30, Putin signed controversial legislation that bans the “promotion of non-traditional sexual relationships” that the Kremlin

says is intended to guarantee children a “harmonious” upbringing and protect them from “complexes, emotional suffering and stress.”

A week later, Putin also signed into law a bill that that sharply limits the adoption of Russian children by people from countries that allow same-sex marriage.

In the past four months, there have been several homophobicfueled attacks on pro-gay rallies in Moscow and St. Petersburg, and two men have been killed in attacks motivated by anti-gay bias.

Earlier this week, four Dutch filmmakers were arrested and briefly detained in Murmansk, northern Russian city, on charges of “spreading homosexual propaganda” under the country’s new law.

ZIMBABWE PRESIDENT CALLS FOR THE BEHEADING OF GAYS

DAN LITTAUER LGBTQ NATION

Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe stepped up his campaign against LGBT Zimbabweans during an election rally of his Zanu PF party supporters in Mutare earlier this week, calling for the beheading of gays.

“If you take men and lock them in a house for five years and tell them to come up with two children and they fail to do that, then we will chop off their heads,” he said last week. Mugabe, who has described gays as worse than barn yard animals, also criticized Barack Obama for linking foreign aid to the protection of LGBT rights, and slammed African countries that have not criminalized same-sex acts, saying they are “succumbing to European countries in exchange for aid.”

“We need continuity of our culture. This culture comes from the norm that women carry pregnancies for nine months. If there is anyone who disputes that, he should lift up his hands to say no I fell from heaven,” Mugabe said. “This thing [homosexuality] seeks to destroy our lineage

by saying John and John should wed, Maria and Maria should wed.

Imagine this son born out of an African father, [US President Barrack] Obama says if you want aid, you should accept the homosexuality practice. Aah, we will never do that,” he said.

In response, the Gay and Lesbian Association of Zimbabwe (GALZ) filed a complaint against Mugabe with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission for inciting anti-gay hate speech.

“These statements have created a climate of intolerance, fear, coercion, intimidation and acts of vengeance directed at gays and lesbians. They are also a violation of section 5, a, b, c and 6b of the electoral code of conduct,” the complaint reads.

GALZ said the incitement to hate and climate “has resulted in incidents such as an attack on the GALZ [office] on the 6th of June 2013 by five unidentified men wielding hammers… under the guide of preserving Zimbabwean culture as called for by the President.”

Earlier this month, Mugabe said that gays and lesbians who do not conceive should be jailed, and criticized Obama’s stance on LGBT rights as “forgetting” his African roots.

Male homosexuality is illegal in Zimbabwe, and in 2006 the country’s government amended the law, which now states that sodomy is any “act involving contact between two males that would be regarded by a reasonable person as an indecent act,” thereby criminalizing holding hands, hugging, or kissing.

Mugabe has been continually attacking LGBT people since 1995 saying they are “worse than dogs and pigs” “unnatural” and “degrading human dignity.” Connect with LGBTQ Nation.

Connect with LGBTQ Nation.

The nation’s most followed LGBTQ news

AUGUST, 2013 21

EQCA UPDATE

COMMIT TO EQUALITY

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

A month into the new era of marriage equality our community remains electrified by our victory and the feeling of joy in our hearts.

We have now witnessed countless weddings, considered our own personal feelings and plans as they relate to marriage and reflected on what a long road it was to get here.

as a child rather than fearing violence and isolation! Full equality is not just the absence of discrimination but also the presence of good qualities like society embracing everyone in all our diversity. Now kids will have role models and examples of healthy, open lives as inspiration.

In that reflection, we can also ponder a vision for the future.

Kids born this year will grow up with same-sex marriages around them, framing their entire understanding of gay and lesbian people in the world as equal. Imagine having had open gay role models

Today, our community is at a critical crossroads. The magnitude of opportunity to achieve full equality and nothing less has never been greater – and this is within our reach. We must not get complacent. Equality did not start and end with marriage. We have

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EQCA UPDATE an opportunity to commit to a richer vision of the world, one that addresses the diverse and pressing issues impacting our community while proactively finding lasting, meaningful solutions.

Let’s expand that vision for the future.

How about a world where transgender kids are safe and included? AB1266, the School Success and Opportunity Act, authored

by Assembly member Tom Ammiano, would allow transgender youth to fully participate in all aspects of school and graduate on time by strengthening nondiscrimination in the state’s education code. EQCA is proud to work alongside a broad coalition of partners to ensure this critical bill becomes law.

How about schools where LGBT students aren’t bullied or punished because they are “too flamboyant”. This month, a state audit evaluating compliance of school districts will be released and we will use its findings as a blueprint to crusade for safe schools and full implementation of the law.

How about a world where police and transgender people work

together to ensure mutual respect and understanding? Thanks to collaboration by local transgender advocates and the Palm Springs Police Department, new policies were adopted for the dignity of transgender individuals in the field. The trans community will be called by their preferred name and gender identity and won’t be subject to intrusive frisking. We applaud the Palm Springs Police Department! Now, what about all the other cities throughout the Valley and across the state?!

Envision a world where seniors don’t go back into the closet when they enter a nursing home because they are afraid of being harassed! Equality California is sponsoring AB663, authored by Assembly member Jimmy Gomez to ensure that administrators of residential care facilities have an additional five hours of training in cultural competency and sensitivity in aging LGBT issues.

If some or all of these things resonate with your heart, join us in articulating your commitment. Visit www.eqca.org/commit2equality and tell us what issue impacting our community you commit to working on. Our movement remains strong when each of us commit to continuing our collective work, together. What’s your commitment?

AUGUST, 2013 23

LEGALLY SPEAKING

LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP!

HOW TO SURVIVE MARRIAGE AFTER DOMA AND PROPOSITION 8

Within a day or two after California county clerks resumed issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, my phone was ringing and emails were flying in. Clients, friends and acquaintances wanted to share their joyous news: “We’re married!”; “We tied the knot!”; “We getting hitched tomorrow!” I am thrilled for them, but also really concerned. In nearly all cases, their next question to me was “What happens now?” I want to ask them why they got married, or are rushing into it, if they don’t know what happens next. Do they know about the obligations and responsibilities that go with marriage?

Have they thought about what “I do” means to their financial status, their current estate plan, or their personal relationships?

foreign-born spouse can now be sponsored for citizenship. There is the option to file joint income taxes and roll-over a deceased spouse’s qualified retirement account. Spouses can benefit from the unlimited marital deduction from federal gift and estate taxes. These and many other benefits will now give same-sex marriages a solid foundation of rights that were never available before.

There are lots of good reasons to marry since the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on DOMA. Same-sex couples who are married in the 13 states and Washington DC that permit it can now enjoy the same benefits that have always been rights for heterosexual couples.

Many of the federal programs and regulations provide essential protections as well as obligations that can alter their lives.

It is easy to see why so many people are jumping into marriage as soon as they can. But with rights come responsibilities. The “what now” questions my clients and friends ask mostly have to do with obligations they don’t understand or even know exist. For example, California is a community property state for all married couples.

What does that mean? Many things for the couples’ finances and assets. It often means “what’s mine is yours”, and many couples aren’t sure if they like that. If you have debts, are they mine, too? If I want to sell my car, do I have to give you half the money? If I want to buy an expensive toy, can I make you pay half? Community property means a whole new mind-set when it comes to finances.

Social security retirement and veterans’ survivor benefits will offer new sources of income and maintenance of quality of life. A

Income taxes are another new territory to explore. Same-sex couples have never been permitted to file federal income taxes

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jointly before, even if they were registered domestic partners and filed joint California taxes. How will the new income tax options affect their bottom line? For some, new tax requirements may mean higher taxes. For others, they could be lower. A consultation with your tax professional should really precede marriage, to sort out ahead of time how tax rules will affect you.

Some of the new federal benefits could also turn around and bite you. For example, if you are single and qualify for Medical (the federal-state Medicaid program that pays for some or all of the health care of chronically ill people), you have depended on those payments to maintain your life. What happens if you marry, and now have another person with the legal obligation to support you?

Will you continue to qualify for Medical? Will your new spouse be required to pay for all of your medical and prescription expenses?

Will that pull you both into poverty?

It is vital that couples consult with their estate planning attorney and financial advisor before marriage. Marriage should give samesex couples new freedoms to enjoy together, not a scary road trip through uncharted territory. If you want to really relax on the way to marriage, it essential to create a pre-nuptial agreement. A clear understanding of a couple’s finances, assets, and expectations, put down in writing and agreed to by both spouses, makes for a marriage built on solid ground, and without surprises.

We will follow with a series of articles that offer more detailed information about the effects of Prop 8 and DOMA on property, taxes, immigration, bankruptcy and many other issues. We will ask questions of other professional advisors who can provide important answers for life partners and registered domestic partners, as well as married same-sex couples. Knowing the facts can help everyone make the right decisions before taking that big leap into marriage.

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, 2013 25

TRAVEL

A SUMMER OF SOUNDS

BY GEORGE W. ZANDER

Right after feeding our stomachs, which was covered in last month’s article (You Too Can Escape), the most important part of a summer road trip is music. There is the car radio, your own stored tunes and of course live Concerts. Plan your escape to include all of this!!! The western states are resplendent in bold and beautiful concert venues. Some have been around for decades; others are new and more eclectic. Start planning your summer drive now. Here is a list of the brightest and biggest, and a few small but amazing venues to visit.

OUTSIDE LANDS / SAN FRANCISCO, CA AUGUST 9 - 11 After only two years on the block, Outside Lands is quickly becoming the summer Coachella. Bands are jumping at the chance to play in beautiful Golden Gate Park, and the crowds are enormous.

BURNING MAN / BLACK ROCK CITY, NV AUG 26 - SEPTEMBER 2 Since its inception in San Francisco’s Baker Beach, Burning Man has grown into the biggest permitted event on federal land in the United States. The festival, located about 100 miles north of Reno, Nevada, drew a mere 80 people in 1990, but brought in more than 1,000 people in 1993. By 1999, Burning Man expanded to 23,000, and the crowds were capped at 50,000 under a five-year permit that expired in 2010. Though Burning Man’s new permit allows a maximum of 70,000, organizers only pursued a cap of 68,000 this year. An experience no one every forgets!!!

STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL / CAMP MATHER, CA AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 2 This amazing eclectic festival that’s place on both Memorial Day and Labor day every year. The music ranges from Americana, bluegrass, blues, folk, swing, rock, Cajun, Celtic and gospel and all in between. In addition to the amazing music there is camping, hiking, biking, lake swimming, art, vendors, food, children’s activities,

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workshops, artists, performances, nature programs, dance workshops, storytelling, Marble Painting, Wax Hands, Dream Catchers, and Wire Sculpture, Windsocks, Kaleidoscopes, Weaving, and Recycle Art, Wilderness Awareness Program.

BUMBERSHOOT / SEATTLE, WA AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 2 The grandfather of the great summer festivals Bumbershoot was started in 1971 at the Seattle Center- under the Space Needle. An all arts festival, music isn’t the only thing that bumbershoot offers.

Comedy, theatre, dance, literary arts, and visual arts pack your three days with plenty to do. There are dozens of acts lead by Death Cab for Cutie, Alt-J, and many more!

MUSICFESTNW / PORTLAND, OR SEPTEMBER 3 - 8, 2013 In 2000, MusicfestNW (MFNW) was a mere dream. The idea was that Portland needed a music festival to match the towering aspirations of a city that was becoming a global player. Today, Portland is one of the most exciting cities on the planet and MusicfestNW, a 6 day festival attended by over 34,000 people has become the third largest indoor music festival in the United States and now includes 4 nights of outdoor shows in “Portland’s Living Room” Pioneer Courthouse Square.

AMERICA RIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL / LOTUS/COLOMA, CA SEPTEMBER 13 - 15, 2013 The 7th annual event will present over 30 live Music Performances and Joinshops by nationally renowned musicians in 10 locations throughout the friendly river community of Coloma. You’ll enjoy Riverfront Camping, Jams, Dance, a Whitewater River Trip, a River

TRAVEL

Hike, “live” Art, great Food and local Wines, fun Artistic Vendors, tons of Kid’s Activities and the nicest folks around.

JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL / JOSHUA TREE, CA OCTOBER 11 - 13, 2013 A personal favorite of Desert dwellers, the festival has been produced for 8 years by a group of family and friends in Joshua Tree. It is in a small setting where community, closeness to the stage, music, and the beautiful setting merge into on magical environment.

The Desert, mountains, music, food and art….and very close to home.

So as you plan your summer escapes, include some music!!

You won’t be sorry.

AUGUST, 2013 27

MEDICAL 411

ASK THE DOCTOR and ask for the HIV prophylaxis treatment.

This involves taking a few medications for a limited time to prevent becoming infected with the HIV virus Question: On my last check-up with the doctor (I go annually), he told me I have a ‘little hypertension or high blood pressure’. What does a little mean?

It is excellent that you have an annual physical. Everyone needs an annual physicalno exceptions. A ‘little’ hypertension means that your blood pressure is slightly elevated.

The new standard for normal blood pressure is 120/70 or below. Borderline hypertension is now been LOWERED from 140/90 to 135/85. If you are consistently above the borderline level, (you should purchase a wrist blood pressure sphygmomanometer (cuff) and check every morning after you awaken, when you are the most relaxed. If it is above the borderline level, you should seek medication and/or natural cures for hypertension, which I can discuss in the future.

Question: My doctor tells me that I have “low T”. Is that a disease?

NO, Low T is hormone deficiency, it is very common and affects almost all males past 35 years of age coupled with increasing environmental stressors. It is now showing up even in the 20 and 30 year olds.

T stands for Testosterone. Low T means that your blood level of Testosterone is lower than the normal expected level of Testosterone for any given age. This can easily be handled by supplemental Testosterone administration. Be sure to have your doctor draw your free T level as well as your total T level. If these values are in the low normal

28 THESTANDARDPS.COM

range, you still can benefit from Testosterone supplementation.

Question: I met someone and had unprotected sex with them. I later found out that he is HIV+. Is there anything I can do at this point to protect myself from becoming HIV+?

First, you need to educate yourself about how to have safe sex with an anonymous partner. The guidelines are readily available on most cruising websites and from the CDC directly. If your exposure is less than 3-7 days, you should immediately go to the Public Health Clinic in your area

Forrest P. Murphy, MD, FACS is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and board eligible in Emergency Medicine and Anti-Aging. He has agreed to answer medical questions for the Standard Magazine. If you have a question for Dr. Forrest, simply send us an email with your question to info@standardps.com. The Content provided in this column is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or care, nor is it intended to be a substitute. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider properly licensed to practice medicine or general health care in your jurisdiction concerning any questions you may have.

AUGUST, 2013 29

FITNESS USE YOUR BODY-MIND AND SPIRIT IN HARMONY

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

Wikipedia notes that “The term harmony is derived from the Greek word ἁρμονία (harmonía), meaning “joint, agreement, concord” from the verb ἁρμόζω (harmozo), “to fit together, to join”. Also, the term was often used for the whole field of music, while the word “music” referred to the arts in general. In Ancient Greece, the term defined the combination of contrasted elements: a higher and lower note.”

In today’s society there seems to be too little harmony in our dealings with one another and even within ourselves. Perhaps it’s that the overall world civilization has become too big, too fast and too complicated for our species to deal with. We’ve become “lop sided” in our everyday life.

For example, our jobs have become more stressful in an effort to keep our productivity up. Our free time has become scarce in an attempt to keep up with all the things that need to be done in our daily life. And to top it all off, the cost of goods has gone up while wages

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have stalled. Wow! That doesn’t sound very harmonious to me.

According to Stress Related Disorders by Dr. Allen Lawrence, MD, our modern day stress levels have gone through the roof. When that happens, our body suffers many kinds of breakdowns. In fact, Dr. Lawrence begins his book with the following statement: “Each year tens of thousands of men, women and children suffer and even die from illnesses that are caused by stress. Until recently the medical profession has practically ignored these illnesses and, unfortunately, the people who suffer from them.”

While it is not possible to eliminate all stress from your life, there are many things you can do to drastically reduce stress levels. First on the list is to get your body into harmony with itself. By that I mean keep it in good shape in the same way you would take care of your car. Start up a regular fitness program to make sure your body is getting all the physical activity it needs. Right off the bat, you will let go of some of your stored stress through rigorous exercise; it is a medically proven fact.

Once you get in motion you will need to pay attention to what you eat and drink. Take in only clean fuel (food and water) at regular intervals throughout every day. Eat smaller meals more often and try to stay away from sugars, heavy starches, and processed foods. You know the old saying, “You are what you eat?” It’s all true!

Another strategy you may use to help combat internal or external forces that give you stress is to make time--even a few minutes a day-to practice meditation or a form of “quiet mind time.” Allow yourself to relax in a quiet place with no distractions and let your mind just relax.

Very often many of the issues that we face each day can be brought under control or resolved simply by letting your “mind’s eye” see an overview of the stressful situation(s) and recognize the corrective action to be taken. It takes a bit of practice, but in time it can draw your whole being into harmony and balance.

These examples are in no way considered to be a substitute for consultation with, or appropriate treatment by, a physician or other medical professional. As always, contact your doctor before beginning any physical activity or exercise program.

If you need help with your physique training, post injury retraining or nutritional guidance, please contact me by email at the address below, or just visit my web site at: dennis@dennismasonfitness.com www.dennismasonfitness.com

PRIDE G R E AT E R PA L M S P R I N G S

NOVEMBER 1-3, 2013

Two Day Festival Palm Springs Stadium Parade Downtown Palm Springs November 2 & 3 - 10am-6pm November 3 - 10am FREE Arenas Rd. Block Party ▼ Wedding Chapel ▼ Tea Dance ▼ Pool Parties

Azul Tapas Inspired Lounge & Patio • CCBC Resort Hotel • Desert Regional Medical Center • GSGRA - Greater Palm Springs Chapter • Lulu’s California Bistro • Mark Loeffler • Palm Springs Nissan Partylab • Pinocchio in the Desert • Pride In Media • Q Trading Company • Signature Party Rentals • Staples • Svedka • Trio Restaurant • Urban Mo's • Vons Special Thanks to Harold Matzner and John Houston

HEALTH

FIND YOUR RHYTHM!

BY DR. KENNETH TOTH, MAT, DC, RN

It’s summer in the desert once again, and music is everywhere!

“Coachella” with all its rhythmic energy and glitz will soon be upon us again! I have rhythm! You have rhythm! Everybody has rhythm!

With….“all that jazz” happening all around us, we might tend to forget that we are ourselves, within our own bodies, a veritable symphony of intricate and life-giving rhythms--all organized and playing off each other in a biological counterpoint and syncopation like no other musical arrangement on earth!

There’s the overall heart rhythm with its “sub rhythms.” ‘Ever take a look at your ECG strip with your cardiologist? Hey, that’s a really important rhythm! There are the hormonal rhythms, such as in the reproductive cycle. There are the biorhythms and diurnal rhythms, and the sleep rhythm with its famous REM! How about your breathing rhythm? If you hit the jogging trails, treadmill or mountain bike trails, you know a lot about that one. There’s even a rhythm quality to the onset, peak, and duration of any physician prescribed medication you might be taking. You’d better pay close attention to exactly when and how your physician orders the medication to be taken for proper therapeutic results. He/she is depending on your following through to take the medication properly as prescribed. Do you have any idea how many people end up in the Emergency Department because they simply forgot, or didn’t bother, to get a necessary or even life-saving prescription refilled at the pharmacy?

So….what’s the overall point here? Well, do you remember how my article last month talked about listening to your body? Let’s just say this one’s about developing a better feel or awareness of all the many processes and functions of your body that very much depend on some kind of rhythm. Ever stop to think about how rhythmic we really are?

Here’s the hook. If you haven’t already done so, I’d like you to get a lot more interested in what’s going on inside your body and why. How about an anatomy/physiology class at your local college?

Or how about some independent study on the internet, for example.

Google, anyone? You bet! How about the Doctor Oz Show? This may help you to stay healthier in the first place because you’ve upped your knowledge about prevention. On the other hand, if you’re under medical management by a physician for something, you may be able to

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become more productively collaborative with your physician regarding your care—simply because you may be able to do a better job of relating details more carefully about how you’ve really been doing since your last office visit. Remember, when your physician asks you how you’re doing, she/he is desiring to get the most complete, careful feedback you can provide. It truly is all about you!

When our bodies are in proper rhythm as much as we can reasonably facilitate it as being so, we may be much more able to experience the greatest state of individual wellbeing and joy in our lives that is possible. Have you found your rhythm?

Dr. Kenneth Toth, MAT, DC, RN, holds multiple degrees as a science educator, chiropractor, and registered nurse. He is currently limiting his professional activities to Personal Training/Nutritional Counseling. He is now accepting new clients at WorkOUT Gym, Palm Springs, CA for personal training along with nutritional counseling. He may be reached at 949-235-9408.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

AUG 10 - 11 Splash House is a multi-venue pool party weekend, debuting this August 10th & 11th in Palm Springs, CA. We’re taking advantage of Palm Springs’ collection of resort pools by connecting them together for one event, and with shuttles looping between our hotels you’ll have easy access to every pool and performance. One GA Wristband gets you access to all three hotels and the shuttles in between. For more info visit www.splashhouse.com

DBA AUGUST EVENTS AUG 19 Why Social Media? A special workshop on Social Media. This fun and informative workshop will help you to develop a strategy for your social media efforts, helping you focus more on what really matters most to your business. 6pm7:30pm at PS Regional Association of Realtors. For more info visit www. desertbusinessassociation.org

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NOW THRU SEPTEMBER 19 The Palm Springs Art Museum will offer free films in its Annenberg Theater every Thursday at 6 p.m. from June 6 through Sept.

19 (there is no film on July 4). The first ten films will be the 2013 Global Lens series of films, organized by the Global Film Initiative.

This series highlights films from countries not typically associated with filmmaking, and features young and upcoming directors. Visit www.psmuseum.org for further info.

CURRENTLY THRU OCTOBER 6 Insights on Architecture is inspired by Ezrar Stoller (1915 - 2004), a student of both architecture and industrial design, who began his career as a photographer in the late 1930s. His image 1939 World’s Fair, Finnish Pavilion, Queens, New York, designed by Alvar Aalto, launched his career and his recognition as an acute observer of space and form. His photographs of work by architects Frank Lloyd Wright, Eero Saarinen, Louis Kahn, and Marcel Breuer demonstrate his finely tuned sensitivity to light and shadow, translucency and solid form. Additional photographs by other architectural photographers in our permanent collection will accompany this exhibition.

This exhibition is organized by the Palm Springs Art Museum. www.psmuseum.org

CURRENTLY THRU OCTOBER 20 Agua Caliente Cultural Museum continues a great exhibition, Where are the Tipis? The changing perceptions about Indians. Views of Indians, past and present, are often based on misinformation. Where are the Tipis? provides insights into these perceptions and how they have been perpetuated.

For more information about Where Are the Tipis? and other Museum programs and events, call 760-778-1079 or visit www.accmuseum.org

ONGOING Hunters Nightclubs® Palm Springs, Palm Springs’ go-to gay bar and dance club, has been leading the way in full-out fun for 13 lucky 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 still hold the longest happy hour in all the Valley. Remember: Size Matters.

Come by for our happy hour from 10am –

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EVENTS CALENDAR ambassador, Bella da Ball, and features music-comedy-song-dance-costumingheaddresses-photo ops-door prizesaudience participation and more. The 95+ minute production features musical numbers ranging from show tunes to country to pop and everything in between. Don’t miss the fun every Tuesday at 7:30pm!

No cover.

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 8, 10pmThese 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.

Complete list of events go to www.toucanstikilounge.com

ONGOING Wang’s in the Desert. The weekly Wang’s Live Entertainment series features the best in local and regional musical talents.

Guests can relax from cabaret and Broadway show performances to upbeat, jazzy showcases on the Zen Patio, with its beautiful stone outdoor fireplace, giant red Buddha statue and lush tropical surroundings. The Sunday series is becoming the new performance showcase for weekends and holidays in downtown Palm Springs. It’s the perfect, casual venue for great music, cool cocktails and of course, a fantastic crowd. www.wangsinthedesert.com

NOW THRU SEPTEMBER 1 Spotlight 29 Casino will be the top spot for entertainment this summer with a sizzling set of tribute acts performing Friday nights, free of charge in the Spotlight Showroom!

Guests can dance the night away or just relax and enjoy chart-topping hits from The Beatles, Bon Jovi, The Police, Heart, The Doors, Journey, and more, performed by tribute artists in the air-conditioned comfort of the casino’s 2,200-seat theatre. The concerts start at 8pm on Fridays and are open to guests 21 and over.

Over the Labor Day Holiday, the series features Journey Unauthorized on August 30th, the Stevie Nicks Tribute Band, “Bella Donna” on August 31st, and a stunning tribute to David Bowie on September 1st— it’s a triple play of great entertainment!

Spotlight 29 Casino is only minutes from Palm Springs, located just off Interstate 10 at Dillon Road. For more information, go to www.Spotlight29.com or call 760-775-5566.

TUESDAYS The weekly Bella da Ball Cabaret Variety Dinner Revue at Azul features a different show each week with a cast of male and female vocalists and drag personalities.

The highly popular show is hosted and produced by Palm Springs’ area social

ONGOING EVERY OTHER SATURDAY / AUGUST 17 BOUDOIR AT GEORGIE’S ALIBI (ABOVE AZUL) Boudoir Entertainment was started by four fearsome local ladies, ready to bring something new to the lesbian nightlife scene in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. Their mission is to satisfy the nightlife needs for lesbians and gay women in the Coachella Valley in a unique atmosphere BY and FOR women.

BE who you want to BE!!!!

For more info go to www.boudoirnightlife.com

Coming Soon: Full Monthly Event Calendar at thestandardps.com

AUGUST, 2013 35

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EVENTS CALENDAR decadent events range from drag shows to pool parties to late-night gatherings at island clubs. www.tropicalheatkw.com

world to take advantage of the activities and natural beauty of Big Bear Lake, California. This year we are proud to welcome powerhouse singer Taylor Dayne as our main performer. You don’t want to miss the fifth annual Big Bear Adventure Weekend Event.

This is going to be HUGE! www.bbaweekend.com

AUG 10 - 11

NORTHALSTED MARKET DAYS CHICAGO / ILLINOIS A crowd of more than 40,000 from across the country will converge on Halsted Street to celebrate the annual Northalsted Market Days®. This event is the largest two-day street fair in the Midwest and lives up to its reputation as one of the country’s finest festivals! The event spans six city blocks, has 17 entrance gates and features three music stages with more than 40 musical acts performing. Many of these artists are top-name, national headliners, giving Northalsted Market Days® a reputation for some of the best live music in Chicago. www.northalsted.com

AUG 17

RENO GAY PRIDE FESTIVAL RENO / NEVADA Reno Gay Pride grows bigger with each passing year and honors the diversity of the LGBT Community. Thousands of visitors, families, friends and the Northern Nevada community look forward to festivities. Reno Gay Pride celebrates 17 years of making positive changes in the inclusive spirit of showcasing diversity and community spirit.

Under cool shade trees in Wingfield Park, along the Truckee River, guests will enjoy a full day of live performances and entertainment on the amphitheater stage. www.renogaypride.com

AUG 26 - SEPT 2

BURNING MAN BLACK ROCK CITY / NEVADA Burning Man is an annual and very gay friendly festival, taking place in the middle of the desert. Once a year, tens of thousands of participants gather in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert to create Black Rock City, dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance.

They depart one week later, having left no trace whatsoever. It’s one big free camping site. Since a couple of years, a gay pride parade takes place during Burning Man. www.gayburners.com

AUG 28 - SEPT 2

AUG 15 - 18

TROPICAL HEAT - KEY WEST / FLORIDA Tropical Heat is Key West’s hottest event for men. What can you do during four days of all-male themed parties and adult-oriented entertainment? Find out on this tropical island that exudes tropical heat. Tropical Heat offers four days of sizzling happenings in the island city whose openness and respect for diversity have made it a world-renowned gay vacation destination. The festival’s intriguingly

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AUG 22 - 25

BIG BEAR ADVENTURE V BIG BEAR LAKE / CALIFORNIA Big Bear Adventure Weekend is a unique event unlike any other, bringing together several hundreds of men from all over the

SOUTHERN DECADENCE NEW ORLEANS / LOUISIANA Southern Decadence started forty-two years ago as a simple going-away party. As a top gay Labor Day Weekend destination, it has evolved into one of our world’s major annual events. It is one of the largest annual celebrations and festivals in New Orleans, and has become known as the “Gay Mardi Gras.”

With over 120,000 gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender participants, and an economic impact estimated to be in excess of $125 million, the city has recognized the festival’s importance with Official Proclamations to welcome the event. www.southerndecadence.net

int l

EVENTS CALENDAR

AUG 28 - SEPT 1 AUG 12 - 18

PRAGUE GAY PRIDE PRAGUE / CZECH REPUBLIC Last year the first ever Prague Pride was an overwhelming success, with more than 25.000 visitors. With 7 days filled with entertainment, debates, concerts, exhibitions, theatre and more, Prague Pride 2013 will represent the Czech LGBT+ community in its full color and diversity.

“We want to show the Czech society as well as visitors from abroad that we will continue to put Prague on the map as Central and Eastern Europe’s capital of diversity.“ says the director of the festival Czeslaw Walek. www.praguepride.com

AUG 21 - 25

AUG 21 - 27

AUG 23 - 26

FIESTA MAYOR - SITGES / SPAIN This carnival is worth seeing! ‘Fiesta Mayor’ means ‘Main Carnival’, and it really is! The total disrespect for safety is what makes it so exciting. Firecrackers are being lit left, right, center, and aimed in every direction.

The dragons, which have firecrackers in their mouths even, chase you! You’ll see most people are wearing straw hats, to make sure their eyes aren’t burned! www.gaysitges.com

XLSIOR - MYKONOS / GREECE XLSIOR MYKONOS is the most exclusive International Summer Gay Festival. Mykonos has revolutionarily renewed its image since the launching of XLSIOR and welcomes now all kind of circuit boys and holidaymakers thanks to a well-designed program, great artists of the gay scene, breathtaking open-air venues, a friendly and enjoyable holiday environment and guys coming from the four corners of the world to have fun. With a strong international dimension, XLSIOR is expecting to welcome 30,000 Gay travelers from all over the world. www.xlsiorfestival.com

MANCHESTER GAY PRIDE MANCHESTER / ENGLAND Manchester Gay Pride is maybe not that well known, but it is one of the best in Europe! All bars and clubs are located in the Gay Village around Canal Street. During pride, the whole block is sealed off.

The Gay Village is a block of about 3x3 streets where most of the gay bars and clubs are located. www.manchesterpride.com

SYDNEY BEAR PRIDE - SYDNEY / AUSTRALIA This year’s Sydney Bear Pride Festival offers eight woofy events over five days!

With a diverse mix of food, arts and culture, including Australian premiere movies, and a brand new bear-pit party, there’s something for everyone in this year’s Festival. Be sure to check out what we have in store for you by clicking here: www.bearpride.com.au

AUG 24 - SEP 3

ATLANTIS MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE VENICE / ITALY All 10 night gay cruise by Atlantis Events on the Celebrity Silhouette, capacity 2850 guests! The ship will sail from Venice, Dubrovnik Croatia, Kotor Montenegro, Corfu Greece, At Sea, Mykonos, Santorini Greece, At Sea, Naples Italy, Ajaccio Corsica to Civitavecchia (Rome). www.atlantisevents.com

AUGUST, 2013 37

the3D’s RESTAURANTS

DINE | DRINK | DANCE { Coachella Valley }

BARS AND NIGHT CLUBS

WANG’S IN THE DESERT 424 S Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 325-WANG (9264) www.wangsinthedesert.com

LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA 222 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-2794 www.lascasuelas.com

ZIN AMERICAN BISTRO 198 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 322-6300 www.pszin.com

HUNTERS NIGHTCLUB 302 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-323-0700 www.huntersnightclubs.com

NATURE’S HEALTH FOOD & CAFE 555 S Sunrise Way Suite 301 Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 323-9487 www.natureshealthfoodcafe.com

LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO 200 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-5858 www.lulupalmsprings.com

BIRBA 622 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (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

POMME FRITE 256 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 778-3727 www.pomme-frite.com

CHEEKYS 622 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-7595 www.cheekysps.com

RAINBOW BAR AND GRILL 216 South Indian Canyon Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-325-3989 www.rainbowbarngrill.com

RIO AZUL MEXICAN BAR AND GRILL 350 S Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 992-5641 www.rioazulpalmsprings.com

EL MIRASOL 140 E Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 323-0721 www.elmirasolrestaurants.com

TRIO RESTAURANT 707 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 Phone: (760) 864-8746 www.triopalmsprings.com

THAI SMILE PALM SPRINGS 651 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 320-5503 www.thaismilepalmsprings.com

HAMBURGER MARY’S BAR & GRILLE 415 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 778-6279 www.hamburgermarysps.com

STUDIO ONE 11 COCKTAIL LOUNGE 67-555 East Palm Canyon Drive, Suite A103, Cat. City CA 92264 760.328.2900 www.Studio-One-11.com

TRIO RESTAURANT 707 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 864-8746 www.triopalmsprings.com

RICK’S RESTAURANT 1973 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 416-0090 www.ricksrestaurant.biz

THE TOOL SHED 600 E. Sunny Dunes Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.320.3299 www.toolshed-ps.com

THE TROPICALE 330 E Amado Road Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 866-1952 www.thetropicale.com

PINOCCHIO IN THE DESERT 134 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-322-3776 www.pinocchiops.com

SPURLINE VIDEO LOUNGE 200 Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs CA 92262 760-778-4326 www.spurline.com

SHERMAN’S DELI & BAKERY 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-1199 www.shermansdeli.com ACQUA PAZZA / THE RIVER at Rancho Mirage 71800 Highway 111 Suite A167 Rancho Mirage, CA Phone: (760) 862-9800 www.acquapazzabistro.com AZUL RESTAURANT 369 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 325-5533 www.azultapaslounge.com CASA DE FRIDA 450 S Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 459-1681 www.casadefrida.com COPLEY’S ON PALM CANYON 621 N Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA Phone: (760) 327-9555 www.copleyspalmsprings.com

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August 22-25, 2013

SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY TAYLOR DAYNE Meet & Greet at Pine Knot Pier Pool Parties Guest DJ’s Bears and Bear Sunset Cruise All Male Bartenders Host Hotel Northwoods Resort WWW.BBAWEEKEND.COM 10% OF TICKET SALES ARE DONATED TO AAP OF PALM SPRINGS

JULY, 2013 39

PHOTO REWIND DAP MID SUMMER NEON PARTY / DIANA ROSS CONCERT / SHORTFEST 2013 PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID A. LEE & THE STANDARD STAFF

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PHOTO REWIND

AUGUST, 2013 41

BUSINESS DIRECTORY your ad here! theStandardps.com

www.TrioPalmSprings.com

66511 Pierson Blvd.

Desert Hot Springs, CA

760.251.0999 OperationSafeHouse.org

COMING UP NEXT MONTH A VISION OF HEALTH The Health & Fitness Issue HGTV’S NEWEST RENOVATION STUD, Francis Toumbakaris LEGALLY SPEAKING &

DISHING WITH CHEF ANDRE 42 THESTANDARDPS.COM