Steven Michael's Ultimate Pop Culture and Gay Travel Blog

COLT MAN WADE NEFF SEEN!

2012-02-10T07:31:00.000-08:00

During my cardio workout I kept catching the attention of a burly muscle bear. My eyes would catch his, his mine. It was kismet! Or my contact lens slipping, perhaps. I was certain it was COLT Man Wade Neff strutting around World Gym in Palm Springs today. I was talking with my friend Beef Pie Bear Shawn and he thought it was, too! Wade has visited the Valley before in before at an appearance at the Tool Shed for their anniversary and for holiday weekends. We just couldn't tell if this sexy hairy beast of a man doing lap pulldowns was actually the man himself. The sweat, the mustache, it HAD to be him.

THE ICONIC MEN OF JIM FRENCH

THE BEAUTIFUL MEN OF COLT!

If you're a fan of Mr. Neff from his varied COLT images or appearances then you know how powerful and masculine this man is. When it comes to worshipping real men, Wade Neff should be at the top of your list. He always speaks with a smile when he's in town. If you didn't catch my interview with Wade Neff read it here. After closer inspection the man wasn't Wade but someone equally as stunning. Gorgeous gay bears tend to run in packs and look their best, not to mention like each other. We nodded, smiled and continued working out.

JEAN DUJARDIN IS "THE ARTIST"

2012-01-28T07:39:00.000-08:00

THIS MAN IS GORGEOUS! We haven't seen The Artist yet, but it's definitely in the immediate plans. Mr. Dujardin recently won the award for Best Actor in a Comedy/Musical at the Golden Globes and he looked stunning. Just look at that smile, that face. Simply GORGE! Enjoy a few images of the God Jean Dujardin. LOVING the Jack Russell! Looks like our daughter, Britney!

And here's an image where Jean is looking wet, barefooted, shirtless, delicious! Just had to include! :) :) I had to...!

Ultimate Gay Culture in January

2012-01-09T18:45:00.000-08:00

STEVEN SPILLS © 108

JUST IN JANUARY

How are those resolutions going?! You know that if you're going to change something you should just start now not later. When you are serious about the switch from what's-happening-wrong to make-it-better-you then you're not going to wait. Just do it! (As the Nike campaign instructs.) If slowing down and taking that needed breath is what's on order, take that few seconds to hit the breaks on the chaos of life. When a fire could perk up your work speed or dream chasing, imagine walking on hot coals barefooted and get moving.

January brings in tons of popular culture collectables including devastating drag queens, salacious British extremists and red carpet gowns on award-winning actresses. Where do we begin? There's so much going on that calendars are full and people busy. What more can we ask for? And as Joan Crawford, err, Faye Dunaway commanded in Mommie Dearest, "Now, let's get to work."

Well, Sweetie Darling. You do know that brand new episodes of that 90s smash cult hit Absolutely Fabulous are hitting Logo TV, in association with BBC America, throughout January. Everyone's favorite duo is back! Edina and Patsy bring that absolute fabulousity that we've come to expect from them. In conjunction with the 20th Anniversary of their original production, three new episodes bring our party mavericks into an era of Kardashians and having to realize results of past indiscretions.

Watching our women portray these iconic tawdry extremists so deliciously brings back brilliant memories of my life in Atlanta. I would sit around with my group of best confidants watching the series, circa mid-90s, recovering from a long weekend of excessive hardcore celebrating like our Madame Monsoon and Diva Stone would pull off in a night. I've seen one of the newest episodes at press time and find their delivery as impeccable as ever and already yearn for more! Set the DVR, Sweetie! Alright?!

Joyful Noise starring two of our favorite ladies of stage and screen, Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah, hits theaters on January 13. "It's ladies night. Oh, what a night. What a night." Just saying this is a lesbian's wet dream come true. Parton's pretty and curvaceous style and Latifah's undeniable sass and witty grit come together on film to try and save a struggling gospel choir win a national competition. Both artists have talented voices so I would bet the soundtrack will be a must-hear! Maybe we'll even see our ladies on the red carpet during our upcoming award show season turning heads with other stunners dressed in the likes of Tom Ford, McQueen and Versace.

On January 24, speaking of struggling choirs, our hardworking cast of Glee will be delivering an entire episode of Michael Jackson smashers dedicated to the late King of Pop including Brittany and Santana singing "In the Closet" and Darren Criss' character Blaine crooning "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." With the series having both its high notes and low registers this season, I'm looking forward to seeing what they produce with this episode. Guaranteed, the results will be detailed and dissected by critics and fans alike. Us included!

Do you consider yourself a Heather or a Booger?! Watch the new season of RuPaul's Drag Race and figure it out. Now I love a good drag pageant and by the looks of the previews running on Logo TV, the new season of RDR is going to be bigger and better than ever before. The prize money for top spot as America's Next Drag Superstar has been yanked to $125K so these other reality programs need to step up their games. It has even made me contemplate shaving my chest, taping 'em up, tucking it back, painting my canvas and competing for the crown. Would that be so bad?!

This season's premiere is January 30 and brings the likes of edgy competitors Sharon Needles (love that name!) and bald but beautiful The Princess; fierce mammas of size South Beach's Latrice Royale and the self-proclaimed "Asian plus-sized Barbie" Jiggy Caliente from Queens, NY; and legendary Cher impersonator Chad Michaels from San Diego, to name just a few. There's thirteen divas vying for the title this round and my score card is anxious for some at-home judging. Join me, please!

Toss in a few moments on the calendar for the "weird but wonderful" happening in January and we have our month: Milk Day (01/11), the Frisbee's birthday (01/13), National Dress Up Your Pet Day (01/14), National Popcorn Day (01/19), and (my favorite) Hugging Day (01/21).

2012 © PULP

THE DELICIOUS MARIO LOPEZ

2012-01-06T07:49:00.000-08:00

It's FRIDAY and with the weekend ahead I thought some eye-candy is in order. Place your hero-worship on this and enjoy Mr. Mario Lopez in all his underwear glory and gorgeousness. Isn't he spectacular!? I thought so! Of all the Saved By the Bell alum, he has had the greatest staying power in the industry. I mean, where the hell is Screech, these days?! Anyhow... Right-Click-Save or Click-and-Drag or however you want to remember the photo. I don't blame you... HAPPY WEEKEND:)

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2011-12-21T07:30:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note over here at The Southern Tea. Hope everyone has an amazing holiday season and finds everything they wish for under the Christmas tree this year! Happy New Year and most prosperous wishes for each and every one of us. It's turn quite chilly here in Palm Springs but the gleam of the desert sun gives some warmth to our bodies near afternoon. Wishing travelers calmness on their adventures out of places like Boulder, the north and locales of blizzard weather and dropping freezing temperatures. Dress warmly and make sure you have your phone and laptop chargers at near grasp. Just saying...

Ultimate Christmas Gifts for Men

2011-12-18T15:27:00.000-08:00

This holiday season everyone needs a little bit of help when figuring out he right thing for the fabulous man in their life. The malls are packed with ridiculous behavior of over-zealous merchants and perfume gals offering to help. Here's a few more gift ideas for the men in your life this holiday season! Ordering online soon because it seems to be the way more shoppers are going.

Stuck on ideas that just won’t work?! Try smart Gift Cards from Amazon! Let people buy whatever they want and Amazon has EVERYTHING! From clothing to music and sports equipment, all of your shopping can be in one place. And there’ s NO fighting for that close parking space at the mall.

Does you man travel a lot?! Is reading something he considers relaxing or entertaining?! The new Kindle Fire delivers heat to anyone that holds one. Tons of electronic books, apps, games and more! All at his fingertips. It’s the only other thing that should be in his hands other than you! Trust!

Tom of Finland new book is available for pre-order and is a great idea for the gay man who enjoys the masculine visual of two sexy men together in their natural habitat of a leather bar or tied to a tree. The illustrations have seen their share of exposure over the years and every time a new issue of his work comes out it is a collector’s item! Great as a coffee table book for that right conversation starter among new friends!

Still not the answer?! OK… Let’s get in on the finer things for the home and check out Mercer Cutlery Genesis 6-Piece Knife Set with Tempered-Glass Block. Suggest your man carefully donates or tosses those old knifes that won’t cut, don’t cut, ain’t gonna cut anything. He’ll thank you over dinner really soon. And the glass block that houses them looks fierce!

In the end, if there’s something any man would love to have it’s a Kenneth Cole Reaction Leather Business Case. Gorgeous leather to strap over his broad shoulders and chest to carry his laptop and personals. It’s gorgeous! Check it out.

Happy Holidays and Mary Christmas to All… And to ALL happy shopping! X

ULTIMATE HOLIDAY MUSIC PLAYLIST

2011-12-18T15:10:00.000-08:00

Having a holiday party? Got a long drive to grandmother's house you go?! Leave it up to me and you'll see that when your guests (and you, for that matter) hear these songs, the holiday cheer will be queer and fabulous! Sharing music with others is a way I show love. With the holidays coming up, these downloadable tracks make the best holiday playlist for your Apple iPod Touch.

The Carpenters have the favorite holiday classic Merry Christmas Darling. This song is very special to me. Gorgeous voice of Karen Carpenter. Simply divine. Another drag classic is Whitney Houston's Do You Hear What I Hear? I need to get downloading, myself! Blogging about these songs is making me want to play them!

Now That's What I Call Christmas has Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas" which I love! Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, Luther Vandross, Britney Spears and Nat King Cole also appear on this two-disc set! Buy this now!

The Mariah Carey wonderment makes me happy every time I hear it and the energy of it really takes the listener on a happy joyful ride. All I Want for Christmas is You starts off our list of must have holiday songs. The Glee cast just released a kicky version on the music of Glee The Christmas Album Volume 2.

100 Classic Christmas Songs gives more traditional musical fare including Pat Boone and Doris Day while Ultimate Christmas gives listeners and holiday party guests current tracks and tunes. Can't decide?! Let these albums simply do the decision making for you!

The Ultimate Relaxation Christmas Album for just the right amount of chill next to a warm fire with your loved ones decorating the tree. And a valium or a (and a) glass of wine wouldn't hurt either. But I digress... However you spend holidays this year, make the soundtrack something your wonderful guests will talk about into the new year!

Love this song and burned a quick disc for my rental car during my recent trip home. This song was perfect for the chilly weather and drives around seeing Christmas lights twinkling about town. How could this list be anywhere near complete without Amy Grant's Tennessee Christmas on everyone's lips as it's played?

Happy Holidays Everyone! Best for 2012! xoSM.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS 2011

2011-12-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

It's turned rather wintery here in Palm Springs which is fine with me. I love me a layer and sleeves with sweat pants to match. I guess it's what you could call my comfort zone. And it always matches, at least in my head that's for sure. Just a quick note to you Followers I try and reach out to. Thanks for reading and staying on top of all the gay popular culture and entertainment dish one can read from Yours Truly. My life over at iamstevenmichael has taken over and I truly hope you have found me over there. Be well and stay strong. I know the world can be a tough place to keep a head held high every single day. I'm sending you each and all the very best this holiday season and best wishes for '12. PEACE, SM.

2011 TOP MUSIC OF THE YEAR

2011-11-21T17:34:00.000-08:00

Christmas is almost here and I thought it helpful to assist in ALL your holiday music shopping for 2011. Some songs were released officially in 2010 but they moved me into '11 so what the Heigh?! So many artists, tons of music and the choices are endless once you start listening. Let's dive ears in first! Grab your credit card. TeeHee!

Rock icon Stevie Nicks turned another stunner with her new album In Your Dreams with favorites: the Fleetwood Mac feeling Wide Sargasso Sea and delicious single Secret Love. We recently saw her at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino over the summer and she entertains every time leaving a part of her on the stage even if it's just a lost bead of piece of lace.

Starting this list of the BEST from '11 is the Lady herself, Lady Gaga delivering us You And I and I must admit this song makes you feel emotions with its crescendos and valleys of depth. I simply LOVE this from Lady Gaga and will not listen otherwise. Her entire album Born This Way - The Collection [2 CD / DVD Combo] is a fabulous stocking stuffers for your little monsters!

Britney Spears is back ruling the musical school! Her new album Femme Fatale spawned many hit singles including Till The World Ends, "Hold It Against Me" and favorite I Wanna Go that is UP! Everyone loves Britney! It's her universe and we simply live to listen and watch what's next from her!

To follow my blog over at iamstevenmichael.com is to also know that I am actually a much younger British tween that wants to cartwheel every time she hears The Saturdays. Dropping this next week my girls of Vanessa, Rochelle, Molly, Una and Frankie have a NEW ALBUM titled On Your Radar and the tracks coming off of it already are delicious from Notorious, "My Heart Takes Over" and "All Fired Up." These ARE my girls!

Glad You Came is from U.K. Boy-Band The Wanted who me hard with new music all year. If you like them cute and young then YouTube their videos. Delicious, and their music is good, too. They're about to break into the U.S. so watch out for them. Both The Wanted and The Saturdays are making their ways into the U.S. so fall in love now and be ahead of the curve!

"Feels so good, being bad. There's no way I'm turning back." Recently named Esquire magazine's "Sexiest Woman Alive" Rihanna has turned it out from radio to dance floors to iPod playlists all year long with the HUGE S and M and California King Bed. From her past music catalogue to even newer tunes that are hitting radio today, Rihanna is here to stay!

Cher hit the big screens this year with Burlesque and her power anthem You Haven't Seen The Last Of Me with the remixes a'plenty! We love The Grand Dame herself and anything she does is the Tea with me. Always Cher. Forever. You will never see the last of her!

The found diva Selena Gomez gave me a video of fiercely windblown hair walking through the desert for her dance hit A Year Without Rain (Dave Audé Club Remix) remixed from her single of the same name. A slow motion diva feeling her moment and you have me staring at the television monitors at the gym daily. She looks amaze and love this song, both versions!

Beyoncé delivered her album 4 (Deluxe Edition) that gave drag queens and wanna-bees the buzz to turn out Run The World (Girls) with the sassy strut that the Lady B delivers in her video. BAM! SHAZAM! My neck hurts after watching it because she throws it down. Her fabulous ballad which I coined as "Irreplaceable 2" Best Thing I Never Had is also a stunner.

Nicole Scherzinger between time between judging both "X Factor" shows turned me out with Don't Hold Your Breath (Kaskade Remix) and "Club Banger Nation." Seems like this Pussycat Doll has finally found her way as a solo artist and I give it to her. She is sickening and have loved her since her starting up in Eden's Crush.

This collection of the BEST MUSIC of 2011 hopefully will help the inner shopper in you figure out that special someone's gift this Christmas and holiday season. Happy Shopping and don't be scare of the dreaded "Black Friday." Shop online! We do...

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

What Gay Men Want for Christmas!

2011-11-21T17:32:00.000-08:00

This holiday season is upon us and with so many decisions to make it's hard to decide what's right for who. The following list is short but should give you and idea of what your Gay wants under the tree this year. Text Santa and let him know where and what to deliver! If these gifts are for you, so be it. Hopefully this will help you get through Black Friday. Ho, Ho, Ho!

Check out DDF Glycolic 5% Exfoliating Wash because I've been using it for years. Use it for where your lines tend to gather on your face or where you have un-smooth skin and leave on for a good time and rinse off. After your shower you're going to be surprised in how your incredibly fresh your skin looks. Trust me on this. I'm a gay man who cares about these things.

Get the man in your life the Mens Black Leather Grooming Set which is a super idea for gay men because it looks stylish and fresh impressive to their friends. We all love a good manicure and relaxing pedicure but sometimes don't have time. Give your Gay what he will need for looking his hottest this holiday season. Plus this one has extra space, too!

Nothing looks as sexy as a new Ralph Lauren Mens Polo Shirt for the handsome love in your life. With jeans and flip-flops or even nice khakis a solid Polo makes any man look handsome, approachable and practical. Grab that color that will match his eyes well complimenting his hair or suits his image. And if he can get away with a bright color then get him that.

This year you'll want to get the man that means the most to you (if that indeed IS you then that's fine, too!) this smart Mophie Juice Pack Air Case and Rechargeable Battery for their iPhone 4. The case comes in white and black and is very practical for someone on the go!

And lastly. all the Beef Pie Bears at the gym wear these shoes. ASICS Men's Split Second 8 Wrestling Shoe. I wear an 11.5 in this style. Just saying. I've worn them for years and always get the compliments. May have to grab this pair for myself because they are fierce. Happy Birthday to me, early!

GAY PRIDE PALM SPRINGS 2011

2011-11-06T18:40:00.000-08:00

The weather this Gay Pride Palm Springs celebration has definitely been interesting. It's been cool, even rained and the sunshine hasn't really found its voice this weekend. It's been fine for me for I was able to wear this fierce scarf that my mother knitted out of rainbow yarn today at the parade. I had it draped perfectly around my neck and the compliments flooded my way. Thanks Mom! Plus I was able to talk about the silly things I saw from behind the knit blockade without anyone reading my lips. Last evening we hit a friend's huge party and then over to Arenas Road for their Block Party. After a quick pass through we had dinner call us away up the street to Zin where we enjoyed delicious cuisine and wonderful company with one another. We passed back through the Block Party afterwards to walk off the food and soon headed home where I crashed into bed immediately. No harm done. Palm Springs was festive all evening.

Today the Husband and I made it to the parade just as the beginning was reaching the end so we walked against it and ran into people along the way we knew and enjoyed the day out. Everyone was bundled up although a few individuals felt it necessary in wearing less that almost nothing. We got the point, but enough girl. Put some clothes on and save that for the White Party Palm Springs has every April. Just saying. We really didn't see any religious God-Hates-Gay sign holders so that was good. The day always brings up wonderful memories of past Gay Prides spent in other places and other times in my life. Even though it's Gay Pride every day where I work, World Gym Palm Springs, it's always fun to celebrate with the out of towers.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta starts tonight so I'm going to head into the viewing room and get ready. Good evening! I hope the parties were fun and you didn't let the dreary weather dampen your queer spirits. See you next year LGBTers. X

MY MIND THIS SUNDAY

2011-10-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

Just in from the Vet where our dogs had their physicals and vaccinations. It's always very exciting when the Kids leave the house because (a) they rarely do so they are very loud and rambunctious and (b) Daddies tend to grow increasingly irritated because of said barking and whatnot noises. Nonetheless we made it there fairly unscathed even though I got a scratch from the boy during the ever-invasive temperature reading. He wasn't having it! Struggling ensued. We won but not without a fight from him. She was slightly better but she also is the most vocal of the two. Man, is she ever. BARK! (and repeat)

This put an interesting spin on the day since I was up most of the night worried about this visit. Barney had a couple of other issues that we needed checked out and now to keep an eye on. Anytime our dogs have health issues which is thankfully rare, we worry greatly. They are our life! If you have pets, then you know. Heading into work soon. Working for a co-worker who needed off since I rarely work on weekends. Really, really wish I didn't have to go in, but alas... I do. Hopefully time will fly.

Weather here in Palm Springs has been considerably warm for late October which is frustrating. However, there are rare hints of cooler weather on it's way so that is promising. Will be glad to get a cold snap in the temperature to bring on the holiday weather. We are almost in November, you do realize. Jumping Mistletoe, Marvin! It's almost time to sit on Santa's lap and make wishes. Starting my list now...

DIANA ROSS STILL RULES

2011-09-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

STEVEN SPILLS © 101

DIANA ROSS REIGNS SUPREME

Seeing Diana Ross in concert for the first time when I was fresh on the gay scene at eighteen-years-queer was a thrill. I had always loved her music, movies and overall diva dominance. Who could forget her unbelievable performance in 1983 battling the pouring rain in Manhattan’s Central Park dressed in a fierce sequin catsuit?! As I sat in awe at her Eaten Alive tour positioned in front of me seated in the very front row was Nashville’s own Diana Ross impersonator, Rita Ross. “Rita,” Pucci to his friends, was all decked out in a white dress, red nails and big Ross hair ready for any moment to be shared with his idol.

Our second row seats gave us the inside excitement of the entire evening and the moments that ensued. Sure enough, Diana stopped mid-performance between numbers and came over to generously bring Rita up onstage with her to entertain for a very brief spot. This was such a special time for Pucci and all of his friends there with him. I was thrilled to be part of it all! The Tennessean newspaper ran a photo of the two on the front page and it has circulated for years.

Just last week we headed over to Fantasy Springs Casino to catch Madame Ross in concert. After grabbing some quick food inside the hotel we strolled over to find our floor seats inside the venue. Now to call them seats is misleading if you are to believe that they are in any ways comfortable because they most definitely are not. Just picture white wooden folding chairs pushed together like sardines. For the ticket prices they charge they could at least provide better seating if they expect to hold concerts there successfully. It seems the best seats may be the cheaper seats in the back since you’re elevated and away from the masses.

I always try to position us on the ends of rows because I like to have some space. I’ll check back for show tickets until I get seats where I want them. Luckily the tickets for Diana were exactly where I would have picked them. Seats 1 and 2. However, I put us on the floor and I’m guessing she didn’t want big screen projectors because they weren’t on so visually the show was often awkwardly between heads. Another reason to sit on the end, I was able to scoot us slightly to the left to improve our visual!

The show started only a few minutes late and Diana Ross looked amazing! She still has her voice. There’s no denying that. Miss Ross gave us a total of five costumes changes including dresses of beads and sequins in the hues of red, hot pink, gold, white and yellow. She offered over two dozen of her hits including the melodic “Love Hangover,” brilliantly written number-one chart topper “Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You’re Going To)” and the concert’s grand finale and gay anthem “I Will Survive.” I was thrilled that we went and saw Diana perform!

But unfortunately I must admit there were places I wanted more from her. For instance I can’t sing “Baby Love” verbatim without seeing lyrics but I had hope that she could. She must have gotten lost because she turned around laughing it off with her background singers and kept going. The show was chock full of her music catalogue but without any description of why and where and how so that left me slightly empty. Song, song, song, song, “Ah memories!” song, song, song, costume change, repeat. I really didn’t expect her to sing my personal favorites like the vintage dance floor filler “Swept Away,” haunting “Pieces of Ice” and epic tearjerker “Remember Me” but I wouldn’t have minded a bit of conversation with her. Again, she was amazing. I want to finish on a positive because she still has it and there are no regrets other than where we sat and the wish that the venue provided more comfort.

OK. Quick story and I’m out… It was my senior year of high school and I had just come out of the closet not caring much of what people were thinking at this point. For the yearbook we had to give our academic accomplishments, future goals and a quote that represented us. After naming my numerous extracurriculars and dreams I ended with the following quote and wouldn’t change a thing today: If you need me, call me. No matter where you are. No matter how far. Just call my name and I’ll be there in a hurry. On that you can depend and never worry. Thank you, Miss Diana Ross. You’re still supreme!

2011 © PULP

Charlie's Angels 2011 Preview

2011-08-23T19:03:00.000-07:00

Coming in September, ABC has rebooted Charlie's Angels for the new millennium. Annie Ilonzeh, Minka Kelly and Rachel Taylor star as “Kate,” “Eve” and “Abby” respectively and all three angels are gorgeous with "Kate" being the very first black Angel. Wikipedia said African-American but she's black. That's how I would say it. If I wanted to be "P.C." I would have said it their way without explanation. Nonetheless, I can't wait to see the show! The original with Jaclyn, Farrah and Kate was the very first television show I ever taped with our brand new heavy-as-hell VCR. This was '78, I believe. The current reboot looks like a mini-version of the movies with Lucy Lui, Cameron Diaz and Drew Barrymore who sits at the producer's helm so expect sass, class and ass-kicking. Setting the DVR now! Again, CAN'T WAIT! :/

GAY BEARS UNITE AT BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN

2011-08-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

BELLY UP TO BIG BEAR, BOYS!

BIG BEAR ADVENTURE III

Calling all bears within growling distance! Grab those scissors and start chopping sleeves off of flannel shirts but find a thermal that fits nicely, too! Weather at Big Bear Lake can be awfully unpredictable and with our summer here in Southern California having been unseasonably cool you’ll want to prepare accordingly. I also encourage you to download weather applications on your smartphones for the most current conditions. The networking app Scruff will help you narrow in on furry ones around you. But why is all of this vital information so important, you ask?!

The event of the year for the bear community is culminating in Big Bear Lake on August 25-29 and is aptly titled Big Bear Adventure III. The weekend brings in the hottest and most popular of the bears, cubs, retrosexuals, grizzlies, otters and nuBears around while promising all the mirth and girth one can stomach. Get it, stomach?! (Cue canned laughter.) I’ve always loved a man I can hold on to because smooth washboard abs are out while meaty torsos with fur are in. (Applause sign flashing.)

Even with busy schedules, event producer and publisher of A Bear’s Life magazine Steve O had a few moments to communicate with me about what the weekend meant to him personally and what someone could expect as an attendee. I thought getting his take on everything happening in his own words would bring some personal substance to the story and let people know a bit about him. When I asked him what people could really expect when going to the events and great parties, Steve O had this to say…

“Big Bear Adventure III weekend is not only an event, but a true vacation weekend for hundreds of men from all over the country and the world. The backdrop of Big Bear Lake and a city that welcomes us makes it a perfect place to party, eat. dance and enjoy the natural surroundings of the San Bernardino Mountains.”

“It’s a weekend one will never forget. The pool parties and dances are extraordinary. Palm Springs own DJ Chub Jim and the renown DJ Pete “Jester” Savas keep the men in high spirits all weekend. There are over 40 restaurants in the town that will keep the men well fed from Burger King to four star restaurants, ice cream shops and novelty candy shops. New friendships will be made and old friends will reunite. The Beer Boat Cruise on Big Bear Lake is also a highlight!”

“There are many single guys that come to the event, about 50% of the attendees. The event will support the Matthew Sheppard Foundation and even if someone wants to come up without having a weekend pass there will be day passes for those guys which can be purchased at each event. There are still many hotels and guest houses that are available. It’s a huge city!"

“I founded the event three years ago on a day trip to Big Bear and it’s the only Bear event in the would that takes place in a city with the name “Bear” in it! Last year over 847 men came to the event. There will be two prelude events. One in L.A. at MJs on the August 19th and one at the Ace Hotel on the 20th. The event is sponsored by PULP Magazine, Coors Light, Scruff, Diversity Platinum, Lover Bear Designs and MJs in L.A. I have been promoting events for 26 years and this is one of my favorite events.”

The event schedule begins as early as Thursday night on the 25th at a Meet and Greet at Chad’s Place which is mapped on the website Big Bear Adventure III as being two blocks from the host hotel the Northwoods Resort. A few rooms were still available there and at other lodging and hotels in the area. If you’re driving in from Palm Springs I encourage you to make your way out to Yucca Valley, turning left on Old Woman’s Road and driving it for a good hour before turning left on Camp Road taking you into Big Bear Lake. Gas up that car, grab the new Euro-Dance smash by The Two Bears called “A Bear Hug” off of iTunes and tell Miss Goldilocks to stay home minding the porridge that’s getting cold.

Early on Friday morning starting at 9 a.m. the bears and their admirers begin to really congregate in tribes of hair and fur balls of love will be registering at the hotel as cruising begins and men begin to take note of who is on their radar. The bears here in Palm Springs are all fired up and I hear over conversations that they are ready to experience Big Bear Adventure III. Many for the second and third times! Later on Friday evening there’s a Meet and Greet at the Northwoods Resort and a dance much later called “Let The Fur Fly” also happening at the host hotel.

Of course, entire schedules can be seen and printed off the website but on Saturday registration continues in the morning and leads into a Cool Chrome and Hot Bears Motorcycle event with a ride around the lake. If you’re not on a hog for the ride, surely the Pool Party and Booze Cruises will tempt you. Speedo? Box-cut swimsuit? Board shorts?! Take all three! By checking the schedule I see that there’s another hot dance party happening later Saturday evening called “A Night of Adventure in the Woods” with the hotel pool staying open until 2 a.m. Sounds seriously frisky and full o’frolic.

Sunday brings the major events to a grand finale for the weekend at a Pool Party with DJ Chub Jim spinning bearded dads and inked-up muscle cubs flagging until their heart’s content. The curtain call is the Farewell Beer Bust at Chad’s Place starting at 6 p.m. and going deep into midnight. To my bear brothers who will be making the trek up to Big Bear Lake for the parties and plan on having a good time, re-hydrate since you’ll be at a much higher altitude and wear that sunscreen and sun block, too! And be smart about what and who you do. Just saying.

In a recent issue of This Week magazine there was a timely piece about how to survive a bear encounter. The magazine tells us to be noisy and that bear attacks on humans are uncommon. (Cue layers of bear noises and a very meek “Help me!”) Stand tall keeping your arms down and look the bear in the eye while talking to them so they recognize you are human. Remember that motorcycle boots have a nice two-inch heel and a simple “Love the fur. Who does your nails?!” will do in a pinch. And finally, protect your face. The joke could write itself, no?! But seriously, if pepper-based bear spray isn’t in your possession fight back aggressively against black bears and drop to the ground like you’re dead during a grizzly attack. Bears go for the face and head so place your hands cupped behind your neck and protect your face with your forearms and elbows.

Have a good time and please post those delicious shirtless pictures when you return! Grrrrr!

2011 © PULP

LADY GAGA'S WORLD DOMINATION

2011-08-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

STEVEN SPILLS © 98

I WAS BORN THIS WAY

If you’re reading this then you surely believe that we, you and me, didn’t choose to be who we are. Now hear me out. We were chosen to be who we are. Sure we can go to school to be a quilt maker or take classes to learn German but no one I know personally woke up one day and decided on a whim that they would, for instance, be gay. You can change religions, clothing and hairstyles, even gender. Sexual orientation, not so much, no matter what Michelle Bachman and husband says.

We can physically be attracted to either or both sexes but the bottom line is that inside of us there’s a structure of character traits that will not change no matter how muscular one gets or what you change your name to or how low or high you force your voice. So why not be who we really are without constraints of that mold a culture places on us to be? Each of us is unique in the special way that we are made up by precious nature and genetics. It was already decided for us as well as our departures. That’s called fate. We can manipulate and repress who we are or appear to be but it will never really change inside us. Pop performance artist and iconic phenomenon Lady Gaga joins us in this revolution of the honest and true.

Whether you believe in Jesus Christ on the cross and a holy God or the process of evolution or storks carrying pixie dust, the fact that you believe in something is important. Lady Gaga believes, as do I, that we were born this way and releasing her pounding album of pride anthems perfectly titled Born This Way enforces her passion that being different is alright. At first listen I was admittedly a hard sell because I expected one thing and she delivered more than I knew was possible of hearing. The music has marinated in my ears over time and tracks like the charging rhythm of “Judas” and emotional peaks of new single “You and I” give me honest joy when I hear them. A full album review is available on my blog but add that title track “Born This Way” has become one of her greatest tracks ever with its LGBT dedication and always-empowering “I Am Who I Am” theme.

Lady Gaga inspires me to continue being who I am, exposing my mistakes and staying true to what’s inside. She performs with a balls-to-the-wall abandonment as I too carry that philosophy into my personal being, trying everything once and going with what works best. For years I tried being something that I believed someone else wanted me to be. In what has been noted as the “Fuck-It Forties” I dedicate myself moment to moment being present in what’s happening around me. And if it really doesn’t have a matter of true importance at the end of the day, fuck it. Those reaching through your thirties now will taste this carefree joy soon enough.

As if winning multiple music industry awards, delivering mind-shocking lyrics, becoming an iconic fashion plate and performance trailblazer wasn’t enough for our Mother Monster; Lady Gaga recently earned her place as guest judge on So You Think You Can Dance. I have watched every episode of all SYTYCD seasons and have to say that Gaga was one of the BEST (yes, all caps) judges they’ve ever had on the show. She was truly engaged, eagerly passionate, completely and honestly connected, and emotional and raw. In my opinion she ran the show, being the first to jump to her feet in a standing ovation for contestant Melanie (who she basically hired on the spot) and All-Star Neil. This was in her twelve-inch heelless platforms that I assume were made by the late great Alexander McQueen. The same shoes she would throw at both the onstage duo of Sasha and Melanie, and their choreographer Sonya Tayeh which in the world of dance is a very high honor for a job very well done.

Anyone who saw Lady Gaga perform at the White Party here in Palm Springs just a few short years ago could easily predict that this girl was going to be huge! Her power and force has continually grown with no outlook of ceasing anytime soon. She’s often been compared to another iconic pop queen in sound and determination but I don’t remember anyone being as driven for the gay community both personally and especially politically as Lady Gaga has been since Dame Elizabeth Taylor. Personally, I’m glad to have her on my side. Join me in placing bent index fingers and thumbs together in the shape of a heart for Gaga. We love you, Lady.

2011 © PULP

PALM SPRINGS GAY LIFE

2011-07-31T11:44:00.000-07:00

Ever come to Palm Springs? Then you know many things about such a very small place. First and foremost know this… PS is very gay, as in LGBT, homosexual, queer and the like. It’s made up of many fabulous Alpha fishes swimming around a small pond trying to find their way, fit it between the palm trees and decide how to make a life happen in a very quiet transient town often opposite of the bigger metropolitan cities from where they come from. Some come to retire but soon find the quiet stillness of the valley maddening and try picking up an old trade or start building on a dream. I believe one of the reasons I stay so active writing and trying to better our lives in because I just can’t sit still and do nothing. I encourage others to do the same, to keep pushing through whatever they believe stops them! Gay Palm Springs is always growing with new members of the community moving here daily. We would always welcome more of us. The fierce, the proud, the Gays of Palm Springs. Follow my adventures here or on http://iamstevenmichael.com/ for the BEST in Gay Palm Springs Dining, Shopping, Fitness and Hotels/Guesthouses.

SNOOPY RULES!

2011-07-19T21:47:00.000-07:00

I thought these pictures were perfect to share as I write this blog entry and my boy Barney lays below my bare feet. Man, I love our dogs who we call "Our Kids." (And I've always loved Snoopy.) Barney and Britney run our house and even though they are dogs, they are so much more. If you don't have pets then you're missing out on the love they can give you back. Unconditional love that is beyond description. They love me on days I don't love myself and that's a priceless comfort. Just wanted to take a minute and appreciate them through a few words. Good Night to You! :)

2 FIERCE BLOGS OF POP CULTURE

2011-07-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

When I sit down to blog something be it about pop culture's hottest new music releases or recapping television's best kept secret indulgences, I give it not only my words and brain but my soul. I can write about attending Miss Continental pageants or judging Miss Gay USofA preliminaries but it's always from the heart and comes from a place of passion and admiration. With my newest blog http://iamstevenmichael.com/ I have iincorporated many of my different elements of being into one web domain. I hate calling it site because a domain is something one rules. I, Steven Michael, rule iamstevenmichael.com and I hope others enjoy it as much as I love doing The Southern Tea and I AM. Thanks for your continued support and please contact me with any inquiries about advertising or promoting something you're involved with. Good Evening. :)

A STAR-SPANGLED STORY

2011-07-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

A STAR-SPANGLED STORY

Picture it. It was 1870 and dressed tightly in your snatched hair and corset or black bowtie and suspenders you worked diligently for the federal government in some capacity be it mail carrier or office representative. You find out that on the day you celebrate the Declaration of Independence, July 4, you’re not getting paid for working! This truly sucks, although, I’m not sure if you would have used that term back then. Shade comes in many forms, even centuries ago. Move ahead a few years to 1938 (thanks for the 411, Google!) Someone realized what was right and just, and the Fourth of July became a paid federal holiday and has remained that way today. Even some non-essential federal offices close, as well.

Flash forward to the present and the deciding of what you’re doing on this 4th in 2011. Got big plans to strut your sexy stuff in your new Speedo at that cookout or pool party? Laying low in your own backyard to save a few coins?! Plan on catching the fireworks somewhere?! All are great ideas but remember that possessing fireworks is illegal in Palm Springs. All along the city encourages you to instead come see the firework celebration in conjunction with the Palm Springs Power baseball game. Hmm. I suppose that if something goes awry it will be centrally located and easier to contain. Sexy firemen wouldn’t have to run about in such ways containing flames. However, Cathedral City is one of the few cities that do sell them and allow use of them so still our dogs will be going crazy at the banging and explosions after dark. Joy.

In a very peculiar order, I graciously compiled the “Top 10” 4th of July Moments to have this Independence Day making it the best one ever, or at least until next year. Decide which color of red, white or blue you wear best and own it! If you can pull off those American flag boxer shorts and sailor hat with flag bandana, go for it! That’s hot. Not. Whatever you do and wherever you go make it safe, be sane and have fun.

A Very Special Independence Day

The Aids Assistance Program is holding a fundraiser at the Southridge estate previously owned by William Holden. Tickets are $100 going to a great cause that provides support for lower-income making men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS in the greater Palm Springs area. The event starts at 7:30 with plentiful hors d’oeuvres and desserts leading right up to the Palm Springs firework exhibition starting at 9:15. There will be valet and tickets can be purchased through their website aidsassistance.org.

Pool Parties and Barbeques

Whether you’re on the list of lists or intend on crashing in for the free grub and oily rubs, the nearby pool party is where you should be. Advice from someone in the know, a fashionable friend encourages a well-fitting Speedo underneath a pair of sexy board shorts can comfortably and fashionably offer the best option for any summer party. If you have an invite, offer to bring something or just do. If you don’t have an invite, most definitely bring your charm and smile. No one like a sour puss. For the hosts, if you’re not feeling like doing the work let the popular GrillMarks (grillmarkscatering.com) do it for you. They set up, do their thing and break it down while you casually mingle with your precious guests. Sounds like a plan?!

Making Waves at the Beach

Not feeling that tan line?! Oh, an exhibitionist are you?! Well, Black’s Beach in San Diego or San Onofre in San Clemente next to the Marine base at Camp Pendleton is where you want to go if nudity is important to you. It’s not for queens in high heels that stick in the sand since the trek is steep and long. Plan accordingly since there is nothing along the lines of water, food or facilities. Take an extra gallon of water to rinse off by the car since the drive home could be pure coarse from dried salt water and sand. For some plush and lush head to Laguna Beach or Newport Beach with the addition of shopping options and dining desires. Nonetheless, grab the sunscreen and stand pretty.

Liquid Dreams and Boy America

Want head into Hollywood and get away?! Comedian Bruce Villanch hosts Liquid Dreams, a pool party benefiting Life Group L.A. and Tijuana AIDS Hospice. DJ Ray Rhodes pumps up the jam while shirtless boys prance about to Britney and Gaga behind designer sunglasses and skimpy fabric. Information and tickets can be found at liquiddreams.org. A true circuit scene is happening the evening before at supperclub in L.A. called Boy America where the guys will no doubt still be wearing their sunglasses from earlier in the day. Just saying. Remixologist of everyone fierce and Grammy nominated DJ Dave Audé will be spinning and DJ Ray Rhodes will be working overtime again spinning here, as well. This is a Jeffrey Sanker infused production so expect Adam Killian and go-go brothers in something theatrical and spandex with muscular fists pounding into air.

Being Idle in the Wild

Idyllwild presents the opportunity of cooler weather, the simple life and a nice scenic drive for the day. I-10 west takes you there and make sure your car is gassed up with air in tires and fluids in the tranny! Transmission, silly. Take the dogs and let them sniff around. If you really want some exercise head up one of the hiking trails but take water and don’t dehydrate. There’s a dozen or so dining options so do some homework and see what’s available beforehand or just wing it. Yum, wings.

Creating Conversation

With due credit to Sunset magazine (sunset.com/parties) I grabbed these fun and fresh ideas of sparking and splashing up your own unique Independence Day celebration. Pour watermelon from a pitcher, obviously puréed first. Try grilled strawberry shortcake kebabs with jam and whipped cream (that looked delicious in the pictures.) Offer something original and smart for your guests to talk about after they’ve left! Be creative and brilliant. Make the effort. Make it memorable.

Macy’s Fireworks on TV

Every year NBC televises New York City’s firework extravaganza presented by Macy’s and is hosted this year by Nick Lachey. Performers Brad Paisley and Beyoncé will be headlining the event and if you’re going to miss it, set your DVR so you can fast-forward through the lulls later and repeated product endorsing commercials. “I love fireworks. They’re loud.” (Amy Sedaris as “Jerri Blank” in Strangers with Candy.)

Happily Working Another Day

Many of us have jobs, yes. Well… Not everyone but that’s another story all together. I’ll be working at World Gym where fitness takes no holiday and other people I know will also be experiencing their employment on the Fourth. We’re happy to have jobs and to a good many it’s just another day. No big deal. Slap a burger or steak on the grill later on and call it the gay way!

Palm Springs Annual Bang

The Palm Springs Power baseball team plays the Bay Cal Yankees starting at 6:05 with the firework exhibition’s general admission beginning at 8 and the exploding skies opening up at 9:15. The game requires a purchased ticket whereas the city-sponsored fireworks do not. It’s free to the public and best thing to do is park at a friends and walk over or connect with ones who live above it all and watch comfortably without the stadium chaos.

Doing it on the Down-Low

Let’s face it. It’s not always about other people. Sometimes it’s best being with the ones you love and feel are in your intimate circle without the show of who looks hot and who feels not. It’s less hassle and more fun making it not so much of a production than most and simply doing your thing quietly. No muss. No fuss. No trying to get rid of that last party guest. Privacy is bliss. Try it. You may like it. We sure do.

Happy 4th Palm Springs!

2011 © The Bottom Line

5 GAY SUMMER MUST HAVES

2011-06-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

THE HIGH FIVE

I can’t live without my iPhone. There, I said it. It does a lot for me and makes me feel connected to the world. Yes, the world. If I’ve left it at home I’m killed down. I don’t necessarily pout about it but if someone offers to go get it for me I don’t stop them. I mean, what would happen if my agent finally tried to contact from L.A. saying the network picked up my reality show?! It may sound materialistic but I don’t judge you on the thing that makes you happy, now do I?! What is that thing, again?! It doesn't take a psychology degree online to know that most people need some kind of material things to be comfortable and happy. iPhones are probably at the top of many people's lists. Obviously, mine.

There are certain things that I really must have or can’t seem to live quietly without. My iPhone being one of them. If I rounded out my “Five Must Haves” for summer and well, life in general the following would be included: lemon slices which are great for a man’s rank stank (just saying try it because it works); the new season of So You Think You Can Dance on FOX; spanking new music from the UK girl-group The Saturdays called “Notorious” which makes me very excited when I lip-sync, I mean listen to it; thirst-quenching ice-cold vitamin D milk. It does my body so damn good!

I asked a group of inner circle confidants to tell me what their “must haves” were. Even my wonderful husband got involved. Some seemed to celebrate Thanksgiving in June and offer what they’re appreciative for which I found sweet and genuine. Others found it funny and in turn were very funny. You’ll know some of the friends that follow and afterwards a bit more than before. Please enjoy.

Shawn Smith

Internet Entrepreneur: new Speedo because spanking new bulges are HOT and trashed-out, saggy-ass spandex, chlorine-chewed Speedo's are NOT; Cuervo Margaritas that are premixed creating a tangy slush for any Lush. Just add ice and slur; heat-beating white cotton long-sleeve button-down dress shirts; that summer fling to show you that you still have it, baby; a working A/C because by August a cheap, ratty plastic fan is as tired as you are of the relentless heat.

Troy Gregurich

Entrepreneur; sun screen, boyfriend, hot swimwear and a flat stomach, topped off with a catered dinner by Paula Dean.

LD Thompson

Filmmaker, co-owner of Trick Dog Films, author of THE MESSAGE: A Guide to Being Human: my Starbuck's Barista Espresso Maker for when I want an iced coffee made with almond milk; I can't do without my Smart Car and who could with gas over $4 a gallon?; Yoga class with Dennis at World Gym; at least one getaway stretched as long as I can manage!

Gregg Seller

Pension Investment Services: my husband, first and foremost; trip to P'Town, of course; a Med cruise; new swimsuit in a smaller size than last year; doing volunteer work for DAP. No summer is complete without it!

Scott Cullens

CEO Palm Pacific Construction: Rainbows, Puppies, Smiles, Ice Cream and Hugs. Was this supposed to be what I like or don't like?! Funny how my likes and dislikes list are exactly the same.

Dimitri James

Founder and CEO Skinn Cosmetics: Havaianas Flip-Flops in assorted colors; deliciously quenching Mohitos at Tropicale; Aveda SPF 15 lip balm does the job with out being too shiny; my white ceramic watch from Wil Stiles. I love the look on a tan wrist for summer; the essential layering of Speedos and board shorts so you’re always ready to jump in the pool at any party.

Mark Jones

General Manager Hamburger Mary’s: sunscreen to protect that skin from the powerful desert sun but still have a nice glow; bathing suit that will look good on you. Appropriate shape, color and fit are important; a thick stainless steel cock-ring that fits right keeping you aroused enough to fill out that Speedo; bright white smile by help of the dentist or over-the-counter products like Plus White; the newest iPhone in white. I have a taste for everything Apple.

Ron Oliver

Film Director: Jesus, as in Jesus my hot Pool Boy who keeps the temperature in my pool just right as I do my laps before the morning Bloody Mary; Camelot Movie Theater, air conditioned AND allows you to drink cocktails inside; Hollywood only a two hour drive away and you can enjoy lunch at Musso and Frank with one of Manny's outstanding martinis; Crawford T. Manchester, our Miniature Manchester Terrier whose daily routine of a morning walk, an afternoon walk and a cocktail hour walk gives us a valid reason to avoid working on the next draft of our screenplay and be civil with our neighbors; Melvyn's Sunday Afternoon Jam Session, a tradition for 25 years!

Jacques Liberman

Manager of Biofit Medical: my partner Steven and our two four legged kids Barney and Britney; the occasional three-day-trip out of town to Vegas or L.A.; cooking and eating good food; a quiet restful Sunday by the pool with # 1 and a glass of cold Pastis in my hand after Skyping with family in France on my MacBook. My “must have” is the money as to enjoy the above more pleasurably. So off to work I go at a great job I enjoy. Another “must have.”

My applause to everyone who contributed! Thanks for the informative entertainment! Tune in next time as I open up the journal from my upcoming adventure back home to Nashville. How tight will the Bible Belt be this trip?! Until then…

2011 © PULP

TRAVELING MAN

2011-05-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

A week from Tuesday I will back in Nashville visiting family and friends. I'm staying at the Hyatt Brentwood as I have twice before unless someone else makes me a better deal that I can't refuse. Still need to do a rental car reservation and finalize plans but am excited to go and (already) ready to get back home. I love traveling but the experience does drain me. Will be making the trek alone since someone (i.e. The Husband) will be here with our kids and taking care of our business here in town. Verbal mental notes to myself would be get a few tanning sessions in before and decide what conservative Nashville can handle from me fashion-wise this trip. I really have to think about where I am going and who will be there because the bubble we live and work in here in California sometimes causes me to forget that not everyone in the world is as fabulous as Moi and those I surround myself with.

As I glance at the clock, it is still early but with a looming day-trip to L.A. tomorrow and a work shift on Sunday, I should make this free time productive. Heading off into Friday. It's Payday which always makes it all worth it and my "Steven Spills" column dropped this week so it's all good in Stevenland. Work should be busy today since it's Memorial Day Weekend.

MY BEST 2 ALL:) SM.

STEVIE NICKS ROCKS STEVEN

2011-05-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

SEASON FINALE

As June approaches we are faced with the inevitable rising temperatures while local and tourists alike are flocking out of town for escape. Of course there are some of us that must stay and trudge onward so the town will continue until season starts up again and people return. Locals adapt by making decisions for day getaways and book weekend vacations to keep minds occupied with scheduled escapes. Those of us who stay in Palm Springs for the summer know how to deal with the heat and pace ourselves for sanity. Although, speak to me in August when I’m slowly simmering underneath a black vinyl roof in my Jeep Wrangler while sitting at a traffic light.

Bewitching songbird and rock goddess Stevie Nicks recently performed to a sold-out house at Fantasy Springs and we were there to rock on. Madame Nicks had unfortunately been cancelling shows and appearances due to illness with pneumonia so when it was confirmed that she would be on I was happily able to take Jacques to his first live Nicks fix. The Friday night drive to Indio wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. However, it’s not a commute I’d want to do everyday. After grabbing some quick food and a cocktail we found our seats behind two people that had obviously taken some super acid they had saved from the 60s. The choreography this one hot mess was doing in the aisle had me screaming and was slightly distracting. We pushed through. Concert crowds are a crap shoot at best.

The show started and Stevie Nicks wonderfully performed eleven hits from her Fleetwood Mac and solo albums, and the delicious gem “Secret Love” from her In Your Dreams album that just dropped and is climbing up the charts. If you haven’t bought it and are a fan you must get it! At 63-years-young, our Stevie has no signs of slowing down. The Lady Nicks gave us one good series of spins during the opening of “Stand Back” which caused the rowdy crowd to roar and she naturally commanded the stage the entire time. Stevie recently mentored the cast of Glee when they performed juggernaut time-definers from Rumours and has made numerous appearances recently from Oprah to Dancing with the Stars. On her newest musical endeavor, surrender to the driving guitars of “Wide Sargasso Sea,” haunting “Moonlight (A Vampire’s Dream)” and romantic memory of “Italian Summer.”

The next day we attended the Picture Me Happy benefit and pool party where nearly 200 men and women converged to raise money for terminally ill children throughout California. Sunshine blessed shirtless hunks with warmth while founder Tim Courtney was on hand to charm partygoers and local catering giants Grillmarks provided the smart food offerings. Mark Carter and John Lustenring have come together to create a culinary service that presents both whimsical cookout food and more elegant fare in healthy alternative ways. Let Mark do the cooking during your next party and head over to grillmarkscatering.com for menus and information. Through the course of charity donations and the pool party, Picture Me Happy (picturemehappy.org) raised over $5K for the children the organization benefits! Thanks to everyone who attended and donated, the selfless volunteers, DJ Luc Benech, host Jim G. and hostess Bella da Ball, and Mother Nature.

In closing, I wanted to share a priceless story from last evening. On Saturdays, Escena Grill has prime rib for dinner and that’s what we usually order. An insider tip from me to you would be that if you want lunch there, go on easier-to-get-in Saturday rather than everyone-is-there Sunday. Although if you do go on Sunday, go early. But back to last night…

Our reservation was outside to watch the gorgeous sunset. Next to us was a table of sixteen male golfers who appeared straight but when at least 10% of the population is gay, someone is doing someone. I’m just saying, and wondering. They were harmless but rowdy. However, their server was also ours and had waited on us before. After saying hello, we told our busy one to deal with them since we weren’t in a hurry but Pinot Noir would satisfy us for a bit. We continued to enjoy the breeze and atmosphere until they headed back over to us. I’ve omitted any information that would get someone in trouble since the following was all in fun and others may take it out of context.

Here’s how the dialogue flowed between us, verbatim. Server: “Are you ready to order?” Me: “Sure. The lettuce wedge to start and prime rib, medium.” Server: “Did you want the king cut, or the queen?” Me: “Oh, the queen cut, sweetie. Thanks.” Server: (smiling) “Perfect… Since you are a queen.” Me: (after busting out laughing) “How true, you. Touché!” What a ballsy move?! We tipped double!

2011 © PULP

SUMMER IN PALM SPRINGS

2011-05-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

PALM SPRINGS SUMMER 101

Ah, summer. It’s here again, or will be on June 21 for summer solstice. As the sun heats us all up and makes some of us wonder why we live in the desert with the extreme heat, how does one deal?! The thought of summer conjures up memories for me of attending summer school (twice) during my teenage years. The first time I missed cheerleading camp and the next I wasted my time not skipping school and getting my GED, instead. I’ve never applied to a job that has required seeing my high school diploma. But there I was, killed down going to summer school for failing Algebra 1 twice because the football coach who taught the subject was too sexy for me to concentrate. Yes, that’s my reasoning. Seriously.

But here today, how and where does one escape from the inevitable heat that’s ahead?! Sure, it’s not that bad right now but get ready people! During my first summer here it was near 120-degrees and I thought I was going to melt. We’ll see what Momma Nature has in store but guaranteed it will be hot, scorching at times and ridiculous with a thickness in the air. It’s time to start dodging for trees with shade to park your car under and please don’t leave your pet in the car. I do have Animal Control on speed dial in my iPhone and I love using it. Try me. Make sure that your cars also have coolants in your transmission and a shade reflector that is trimmed to fit your front windshield. People become ruthless when deciding where the shade of a tree will be and when. Be smart, too! Think it through.

While on the subject of pets, dogs in particularly. We have two fabulously privileged Jack Russells and they love the water. Splashing in the pool, swimming after a floating ball and any aquatic chaotic activity entertains them and knocks them down so they rest peacefully for the rest of the day. Keep your dogs’ fur and nails trimmed for healthy growth and easy towel drying afterwards. If they swim a lot think of getting a moisturizer for their fur for afterwards. We use Aveda Brilliant (yes, that’s what I said), an emollient finishing gloss on their fur and it prevents our boy’s dry skin that normally wears him out. The water that may accumulate in their ears can be removed gently by a cotton-covered cue tip and even ear-cleaning solutions wouldn’t hurt if administered immediately after each entry into water. And again, I can’t stress enough. A cracked car window does not a comfortable setting make for puppy. Try sitting in the car without the air condition running and see how long you last!

The summer is hell on automobiles. Focus on taking care of your car. No coolant equals no air condition and a bad tranny, err, I mean transmission. A solid running car can get you away for weekend escapes. But where?! Even day trips can give one a sense of peace and retreat from that un-Christian heated swelter outside. The beaches are a thought like Black Beach in San Diego for you exhibitionists. Laguna Beach has the offering of Newport Beach and some serious shopping. Want some real culture?! Hit it to L.A. and take a gawking gander at the Malibu surfer boys and the always-entertaining boardwalk. (On a side note, Krispy Kreme is at Ontario Mills and yes you can bring me some back.) Venturing to Idyllwild or Big Bear and even a trip up to the Palm Springs Tram will always pull the temperature down a good group of degrees. Drive safe, gas up and get away if only for the day or overnight.

To have been in Palm Springs or the desert for that matter during one of our summers is to know you do everything in the morning. It’s the coolest time of the day since even at night it is often 99-degrees or more during our peak months of July, August and September. Grab the sun block and use it. However, if you don’t want to use it then you better make an appointment at Dr. Make Pretty’s offices at Contour Dermatology who just celebrated their 10-year anniversary. Congrats Tim and Lee! And by all means, if you foresee yourself wearing flip-flops and I encourage you to, please have a pedicure happening. Re-hydrate yourselves! Water is best. Your skin will look amazing.

Everyone this side of the yellow brick road knows that June is big time full-blown Gay Pride in most cities commemorating the Stonewall riots. Los Angeles carries pink triangles and sings Lady Gaga’s entire Born This Way album from June 10-12 at the Christopher Street West festival in West Hollywood. Up and down Santa Monica Boulevard one will find fashion fierceness realness with queens in skinny jeans and shirtless inked-up bears from Silver Lake. Heading north, the LGBT tribes gather in San Francisco on June 25, 26 to kick up their rainbow petticoats and celebrate their place in the world. San Diego Pride boasts being the fifth-largest in the United States and brings all things gay together for their parade on July 16. All queer-ventures provide pleasures to the eye, pride without prejudice and are each worth the weekend gay-cation.

But if you don’t want to or can’t get out of town, what can you do to beat the heat?! For me, when I’m not working we’re inside the cool house then to the pool then back into the chilled home, and repeat. There’s not a lot of out-and-about happening since many people travel away. Catch a movie! Slide into an afternoon feature and relax in the comfort of their iceberg theatres. Now I’m not encouraging you to sneak in “healthy” snacks. That’s just not the way one does things. But… always remember chocolate melts in heat. The air is also cranking at World Gym so you can grab a workout or just a protein shake and soak up the refrigeration. With the twenty-nine pieces of new cardio equipment and the summer specials running at the gym to get your heart rate moving, it’s a nice place to enjoy chilling out after getting worked up.

What summer jams will be having you popping that neck or shaking that ass at pool parties and on steamy dance floors like DiGS, Hunters and Toucan’s?! The Freemasons seem to have their hands on everyone lately and they deliver a 2011 remix of “I’m Coming Out” from Diana Ross with while all-grown-up Selena Gomez has hit hard with a Dave Aude shake-up of her “A Year Without Rain.” My girl Britney Spears has infused her already-fierce “Till The World Ends” with hot pop rockers Nicki Minaj and Ke$ha (who co-penned the track) providing new layers of musical texture. Man (boy) band The Reason covers an upbeat remix of “The Reason” with their Electric Allstars radio edit. Yes, this is a re-do of the Hoobastank 2004 smash hit that now has been taken over by the X Factor alum. I found this great Guide to Online Schools which is a resource of information about music degrees for those of you who can't get enough of great music. It is always fun to learn more and you're never too "mature" to learn. Hate using the word "old."

And you got to eat to keep up your strength! But where?! Many of the local restaurants have found that staying open for business even during the hottest of summer months has proved smart in years past. The ones I’ve spoke to said they’ll be providing great service and food as long as locals continue to dominate their spaces. It would be hard for me to fairly say go here or there. But I can encourage everyone to keep our local merchants and restaurants going by grabbing your girlfriends or husband and make a night of it out in the scene. From an early breakfast with friends to brunch by the pool or dinner under the stars, summer dining can be delicious. And the freezer aisle at the grocery store feel pretty cool, too!

At the end of the day we all can be assured of a few things about the summer intensity that is on the heated horizon. First, pop on the Weather Channel for a few minutes and listen to the weather forecasts from other cities. The heat will come and many will complain locally, me included. It’s part of our dialogue and it’s obvious. But it too shall pass and then we’re reminded for the bigger percentage of time why we live here. It’s gorgeous in Palm Springs. You adapt to the heat like others deal with the snowy cold. I’m writing this on an unseasonably breezy cool May morning. A bird whistles nearby and I’m hopeful that Mother Nature is as kind tomorrow as she is today.

2011 © The Bottom Line

STEVEN TAKES THE COSMOPOLITAN

2011-05-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

STEVEN TAKES THE COSMOPOLITAN

To be a follower of my columns is to also know that I love Las Vegas and it loves me. I’ve happily visited many times and as I sat and counted this last adventure I added up that I’ve stayed at a dozen or so of the different hotels and resorts throughout the years. Yes, I’m a connoisseur of the finer things my one life may provide and Las Vegas makes me happy. If I wasn’t here in Palm Springs I could definitely see myself there dancing in a topless review balancing a stunning cobalt blue feathered headdress with beads and rhinestones atop my beat mug. Some dreams are just that, I’m guessing.

Some of the hotels have gone and become new. The Dunes dropped to rubble as the Bellagio was erected by Steve Wynn who then in turn moved to the former Desert Inn property and birthed a new home at Wynn/Encore. Others reinvented themselves to compete with the growing trend of the mega-luxury resort that the Strip has found as the places-to-be along Las Vegas Boulevard. Allow me to introduce the newest original creation of fabulous that has landed in Sin City known as one overwhelmingly magnificent firecracker, The Cosmopolitan.

The grand 2995-room resort sits inside City Center and boasts “steering clear of sameness, seeing the world through fresh eyes and wasting no opportunity while minding every detail.” With my man’s birthday and our anniversary running near on the calendar we tend to plant ourselves in Las Vegas for a weekend of culinary debauchery, a mountain of martinis and the rejuvenation only the power of bright neon lights can provide to celebrate. I knew a big time would be had after setting up a reservation that won us over from, “Please check in at VIP.”

Pieces of the puzzle continually fell in place from magazine reviews of the resort to the common man offering his take on the mega-structure. I decided to let the place to speak for itself and boy did it do some talking! After arriving we checked in to our spacious suite with its breathtaking view that made me gasp slightly as the fountain show at the Bellagio was just beginning. The premium view of the Strip is amazing. When I saw on their website http://cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/ that the rooms had open-air balconies (unheard of in the gambling capital) I knew it would become home. I need fresh air in my room and when windows don’t open even slightly, no way. Knowing what I know now, how could I ever stay somewhere else?!

After a quick refresh and change of drag, Jacques and I ventured downstairs. The casino was jammed, bartenders were serving poison by bucket loads and it was loud everywhere you went. Anyone we came in contact with from scantily-clad cocktail divas, to enthusiastic and engaging servers to the charming handsome valet were completely service oriented and extremely attentive to every moment. There was quite a “melting pot” of characters keeping the pulse going as we sniffed around. The hotel gives you a feeling of nothing you’ve ever experienced in Las Vegas. Pluck a stunning high-rise residential building out of Manhattan with amazingly decorated accommodations and impeccable service. Drop that in Sin City while placing inside a bustling casino and essential shopping floors below. That’s The Cosmopolitan.

The tranquil Sahra Spa & Hammam provides an escape away from it all. As I was led to my much-needed Sunday morning massage I walked long quiet hallways that winded and transported me to a place of forgetting where I really was. The evening before we were running late from dinner and had to basically run to catch Coco Montrese in Diva’s Las Vegas at Imperial Palace and then over to Piranha for a cocktail with Larry Edwards so the detoxing in the relaxing spa was so necessary. After the massage I steamed a bit and soaked in their all-to-myself jacuzzi pool before meeting Jacques for brunch.

Listening to Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” later that day playing among other ambient chill-tastic tunes as we relaxed by the Boulevard Pool that overlooked the Strip, I felt there was nowhere else on earth I should be. Jacques won at slots which was nice and we enjoyed our weekend getaway deservedly and thoroughly. I didn’t want to leave! I wept slightly when I was packing for departure. The hospitality we experienced from the hotel was mind-blowing and deserving of your visit very soon. As I soaked in the traditional Japanese tub that looked out at the Strip after a delicious dinner on Sunday I took a minute or more to become serene and be thankful for what I have and what I will have.

Now onto the culinary deviancy that made us ridiculous with full content stomachs and tantalized taste buds. We fell in love with Scott Conant’s soulful menu at Scarpetta on Saturday evening. As we sat drinking wine watching the twinkling bulbs of Las Vegas chase one another we were delivered plate after delicious plate of such stunners as Duck/Foie Gras Raviolis that made us both melt and their signature Spaghetti. My mouth is watering just remembering it. Crispy Fritto Misto, Braised Short Ribs and Tuna “Suchi” also won our hearts. Jacques had the Black Farfalle and clapped his hands afterwards in delight. I screamed for the Napoleon Crème Brulle and coffee as the finale of our meal.

Sunday for brunch we found that José Andrés’ China Poblano infused the dishes of China and Mexico in a way that blew us away! I had two Mexican Mimosas but that’s my vacation thing. Our yummy menu included Huevos Con Chorizo which was served in a cast iron skillet, multiple rocking tacos, When Pigs Fly pork steam buns and Har Gau shrimp and pork belly Dim Sum. I devoured fresh warm Churros with cinnamon and caramel con leche sauce for dipping. I’m telling you, to die!

Sunday evening we finished off the weekend with more unparalleled 5-Star dining at Stephen Hopcraft’s popular “Not Your Daddy’s Steakhouse” STK. If you’ve ever tried to get into the location in L.A. then you know of its popularity and exclusivity. We started off with a round of oysters for Jacques and I had tuna sashimi. Wow! So damn good. And surprise, we both had bone-in rib steak for dinner and was presented with a wicked round of desserts including mini ice cream cones, pudding bread with salted caramel sauce and cheesecake lollipops. Yes, I’d hate me too!

The Cosmopolitan impressed with the brilliant marketing campaign “Just the Right Amount of Wrong” which was an eye-catcher in all of the trendy and hip magazines. That’s the crowd that finds themselves there. However, we also saw an overzealous granny with her “Sophia Petrillo” wicker purse playing slots and a squealing cougar with her Italian boy toy winning at roulette. I offer, “When the world tells you ‘No,’ find yourself at The Cosmopolitan.” That would be my marketing campaign for them. From the world’s largest chandelier encasing a three-story cocktail bar to go-go goddesses in Victoria’s Secret runway fashions dancing in glass cases above the Strip, this is where the glamorous go to have a good time in Las Vegas. We’ll be back very soon!