White Party...Jeffrey Sanker labor day soiree in Las Vegas! Sizzlin' hot weekend...

Well, Jeffrey Sanker's White Party sauntered into Las Vegas once again!

To gay men, the much-anticipated annual event is comparable to the super bowl for straight guys.

In fact, from the 3rd of September thru the 8th - the exotic desert oasis will be inundated with a truckload or two of biceps and studly bods hailing from all corners of the civilized planet  (Miami, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles, for starters) - to party-hearty.

Sizzling hot DJ's will rev up dance floors split-up at various venues around Sin City.

Last night, sexual predators on the prowl,  headed off to the "Rum Jungle" at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and danced their tight little butts off  'til the crack of dawn.

Tonight,  hot 'n hunky dudes will be getting-down to the nitty-gritty at the Hard Labor Krave with DJ Tony Moran in the main room.


Then, there's a sun-kissed party pool tomorrow at the Luxor which no self-respecting rainbow-oriented stud will want to miss!

But, the "White Dress Party" Sunday evening at the House of Blues is sure to pack the biggest whallop!

There's a special treat in store, too!

Lolene will be performing the first release of  "SEXY PEOPLE"  from her highly anticipated debut album "The Electrick Hotel"

While a number of the bodacious boys will kow-tow to tradition and dress to the nines in chic outerwear in pristine shades of white (with a strong display of tats and raw flesh) - a rebellious handful may go for the gusto in sultry black to thumb their noses at the crowd.

Upstarts!

Just betcha there will be a bevy of  wall-walkers, sensual videos, live dancers, and a spectacular light & sound show.

A pride of beauteous boys will no doubt be schmoozing, sashaying, strutting - and likewise - stoking away the night with caution thrown to the cool night breezes fluttering in off the desert.

When I asked a couple of pals if they planned to zip down to the desert hot spot this week, they shrugged.

"We're not into circuit parties."

Yes - the annual event is known to be part of the "circuit" - a high-profile boy-toy weekend out with a naughty reputation, to boot.

The phenomenon first sprang from early tea dances (wild rainbow-themed parties) tossed on Fire Island in the heady days of gay liberation a couple of decades ago.

The circuit soirees came on the heels of underground rave parties, and were run by savvy multi-sexual trend-setters, who publicized and professionally produced 'em with a lot pizzazz.

As a result, the must-attend parties attracted a scintillating social mix.

Show-biz music headliners were also booked to lure in the trendy jet-set.

While the parties are open to anyone these days, the circuit events are generally perceived as social hubs for the active gay man.

A big attraction?

The highly-touted offerings are typically lavish, prestigious affairs - with elaborate lighting, music, and decor with widespread appeal to the A-list man - held in venues that can accommodate their all-encompassing circle of friends.

But, the events are costly.

Even the most far-reaching party-goers don't attend all the events; after all, there are too many calendared across a wide expanse to afford a catch-all for most.

If a die-hard circuit officionado manages to pull off the stunt, then he's truly a golden circuit boy, by any stretch of the imagination.

Circuit parties are known to attract a broad demographic - from shy young dudes just out - to totally liberated gays in their mid-twenties and up active in the rainbow hub.

Expect to spy a handful of well-tooled silver-haired "daddies" in their 50s, too.

Couples in long-term relationships are still inclined to savor the events also.

In essence, the parties are a tribal cultural event.

Some say, circuit parties are analogous to a ritual holiday for the gay/lesbian/transgender community and a "celebration" of gay life, liberated sexuality, and freedom of expression.

In sum, the white party experience is a war cry that calls attention to the power, strength, and unity of the gay community.

Critics allege that circuit parties are a breeding ground for illicit drug abuse, though.

Throngs of young vibrant men, bent on partying all night - and enhancing each glorious sensual moment - are known to use the addictive booster "Tina" (known as meth and crystal).

For this reason, there has been a concerted effort by responsible members of the community to curb an outbreak of addiction, which has proven to be costly for many participants.

Some have lost their jobs, lovers, vibrant health, self-esteem - and a capacity to thirst for precious life - due to chronic addiction.

Many outreach programs have raised concerns about the underpinnings of circuit parties; particularly, with regard to the misuse of drugs (alcohol, marijuana, speed and ecstasy).

The warnings about potential overdose, dehydration, and impaired judgment (leading to unsafe sex and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases) have been underscored, but often fall on deaf ears.

In fact, circuit parties have been blamed for crystal addiction and the rampant transmission of a handful of virulent sexually-transmitted diseases - such as HIV and Hepatitis - among gay men within the borders of North America.

Notwithstanding, the circuit parties have been bad-mouthed on the grounds that they are superficial, too.

The whole emphasis, for example, appears to be on looks, sexual appeal, and being with the "in" crowd.

If you feel embarrassed about taking your shirt off, then you may feel uncomfortable at the Las Vegas weekend blast.

After all, guys around the country have been working out for months to sculpt the perfect body to show off at the extravaganza next weekend.

When these dudes toss off their "T's", to reveal perfect pecs and rippling abs, heads will swoon.

An adrenalin rush for everyone, no doubt.

But, the cries of hedonism are not unfounded.

Just flip through any major gay lifestyle magazine. Half the ads are for plastic surgery, nose jobs, and teeth whitening. The other fifty percent are blurbs for lawyers who specialize in DUI's and lewd conduct in public places.

Does this reflect the underbelly of the gay culture, warts and all?

No matter, just because a handful of revelers are inclined to overindulge, doesn't mean you can't get away for a zesty day or two of fun in the desert with your "brothers and sisters".

The VIP high-profile events have been orchestrated by pro party person - affable Jeffrey Sanker - the undisputed "King of White".

A few years ago, as I was munching on a salad at the front counter at the ever-popular French Marketplace, Sanker and I engaged in idle chit-chat.

Of course, I didn't have a clue who the young hottie was.

In the course of the conversation, I guess I dropped a bombshell, when I innocently batted my eyelashes and quipped.
\"And, what do you do?"

I throw parties," he responded without hesitation.
Later, I learned that was quite an understatement, if ever there was on
But, you don't have to attend all the scintillating events, or haul your a** into the dark starry night 24/7.

Or fall prey to peer pressure, either.

Just drop down on the sidelines at the pool party, sip on an exotic cocktail or two, and quietly take in a few rays.

Or, top off a day of sight-seeing with an energy-boosting appearance at one of the party extravaganzas later in the evening, before heading home.

Say "no" to Tina, though!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Las Vegas...White Party! Circuit blast hosted by Jeffrey Sanker...

Well, the White Party kicks off next week in Las Vegas.

To gay men, it's comparable to the super bowl for straight guys.

From October 10th thru 13th - the exotic desert oasis will be inundated with a truckload or two of biceps and studly bods hailing from all corners of the civilized planet - Miami, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles.

Uh-huh!



DJ Brett Henrichsen will rev up the dance floor at Friday's "BEACH BALL" event which will feature the hottest models in AUSSIEBUM swimwear.


Saturday's WHITE PARTY (DJ ABEL spinning) will take off at the trendy-setting HOUSE OF BLUES where a state-of-the-art concert sound and sizzling light show is sure to dazzle.

At press time - special appearances by LADY GAGA and Sagiv and Max (Cher Returns) - were firmed up.

While a number of the bodacious boys will kow-tow to tradition and dress to the nines in chic outerwear in pristine shades of white (with a strong display of tats and raw flesh) - a rebellious handful may go for the gusto in sultry black to thumb their noses at the crowd.

Upstarts!

The POOL PARTY at Mandalay Bay on Sunday promises to be the biggest splash of the year, though, with DJ Morningstar stirring up the senses.

But, the party-hearty, will still be dancing away 'til the wee hours at Sunday Night's Studio 54 Bash, in a backdrop that will feature wall-walkers, sensual videos, live dancers, and a spectacular light and sound show.

A pride of beauteous boys will no doubt be schmoozing, sashaying, strutting - and likewise - stroking away the night with caution thrown to the cool night breezes fluttering in off the desert.

When I asked a couple of pals if they planned to zip down to the desert hot spot this week, they shrugged.

"We're not into circuit parties."

Yes - the annual event is known to be part of the "circuit" - a high-profile boy-toy weekend out with a naughty reputation, to boot.

The phenomenon first sprang from early tea dances (wild rainbow-themed parties) tossed on Fire Island in the heady days of gay liberation a couple of decades ago.

The circuit soirees came on the heels of underground rave parties, and were run by savvy multi-sexual trend-setters, who publicized and professionally produced 'em with a lot pizzazz.

As a result, the must-attend parties attracted a scintillating social mix.

Show-biz music headliners were also booked to lure in the trendy jet-set.



While the parties are open to anyone these days, the circuit events are generally perceived as social hubs for the active gay man.

A big attraction?



The highly-touted offerings are typically lavish, prestigious affairs - with elaborate lighting, music, and decor with widespread appeal to the A-list man - held in venues that can accommodate their all-encompassing circle of friends.

But, the events are costly.

Even the most far-reaching party-goers don't attend all the events; after all, there are too many calendared across a wide expanse to afford a catch-all for most.

If a die-hard circuit officionado manages to pull off the stunt, then he's truly a golden circuit boy, by any stretch of the imagination.

Circuit parties are known to attract a broad demographic - from shy young dudes just out - to totally liberated gays in their mid-twenties and up active in the rainbow hub.

Expect to spy a handful of well-tooled silver-haired "daddies" in their 50s, too.

Couples in long-term relationships are still inclined to savor the events also.

In essence, the parties are a tribal cultural event.

Some say, circuit parties are analogous to a ritual holiday for the gay/lesbian/transgender community and a "celebration" of gay life, liberated sexuality, and freedom of expression.

In sum, the white party experience is a war cry that calls attention to the power, strength, and unity of the gay community.

Critics allege that circuit parties are a breeding ground for illicit drug abuse, though.

Throngs of young vibrant men, bent on partying all night - and enhancing each glorious sensual moment - are known to use the addictive booster "Tina" (known as meth and crystal).

For this reason, there has been a concerted effort by responsible members of the community to curb an outbreak of addiction, which has proven to be costly for many participants.

Some have lost their jobs, lovers, vibrant health, self-esteem - and a capacity to thirst for precious life - due to chronic addiction.

Many outreach programs have raised concerns about the underpinnings of circuit parties; particularly, with regard to the misuse of drugs (alcohol, marijuana, speed and ecstasy).

The warnings about potential overdose, dehydration, and impaired judgment (leading to unsafe sex and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases) have been underscored, but often fall on deaf ears.

In fact, circuit parties have been blamed for crystal addiction and the rampant transmission of a handful of virulent sexually-transmitted diseases - such as HIV and Hepatitis - among gay men within the borders of North America.

Notwithstanding, the circuit parties have been bad-mouthed on the grounds that they are superficial, too.

The whole emphasis, for example, appears to be on looks, sexual appeal, and being with the "in" crowd.

If you feel embarrassed about taking your shirt off, then you may feel uncomfortable at the Las Vegas weekend blast.

After all, guys around the country have been working out for months to sculpt the perfect body to show off at the extravaganza next weekend.

When these dudes toss off their "T's", to reveal perfect pecs and rippling abs, heads will swoon.

An adrenalin rush for everyone, no doubt.

But, the cries of hedonism are not unfounded.

Just flip through any major gay lifestyle magazine. Half the ads are for plastic surgery, nose jobs, and teeth whitening. The other fifty percent are blurbs for lawyers who specialize in DUI's and lewd conduct in public places.

Does this reflect the underbelly of the gay culture, warts and all?

No matter, just because a handful of revelers are inclined to overindulge, doesn't mean you can't get away for a zesty day or two of fun in the desert with your "brothers and sisters".

The VIP high-profile events have been orchestrated by pro party person - affable Jeffrey Sanker - the undisputed "King of White".

A few years ago, as I was munching on a salad at the front counter at the ever-popular French Marketplace, Sanker and I engaged in idle chit-chat.

Of course, I didn't have a clue who the young hottie was.

In the course of the conversation, I guess I dropped a bombshell, when I innocently batted my eyelashes and quipped.

"And, what do you do?"

"I throw parties," he responded without hesitation.

Later, I learned that was quite an understatement, if ever there was one.

But, you don't have to attend all the scintillating events, or haul your a** into the dark starry night 24/7.

Or fall prey to peer pressure, either.

Just drop down on the sidelines at the pool party, sip on an exotic cocktail or two, and quietly take in a few rays.

Or, top off a day of sight-seeing with an energy-boosting appearance at one of the party extravaganzas later in the evening, before heading home.

Say "no" to Tina, though!

West Hollywood...humping in the streets!

What the?


I was driving up Edinburgh Street when I noticed something odd on the pavement ahead.

Just a few feet before an elevation in the road - a sign etched in the pavement in dazzling white bold-faced lettering - caught my eye.

Hump

Say what?

Maybe, I'd better grab my glasses - I thought to myself - as I scrutinized the road a little more carefully ahead.

Surely - the warning notice said bump - right?

Since time immemorial - after all - calculated rises in the road specifically designed to slow traffic (and in some cases tear out floorboards of those who bottom out after maintaining high speed) have been labelled (quite succinctly, I might add) bumps.

Since the days of my youth, in fact.

Perhaps some city worker was high on Tina after a night of humping at Flex - and quite by accident - etched the jarring off-beat word on the pavement by mistake?

Guys, it's a piece of cake.

Just paint over the faded lettering after vehicle traffic has crushed it into oblivion over time.

No need to reinvent a designated bump sign.

Or, maybe it's the fault of those anal-retentive Councilman over at City Hall?

Don't they have better things to do than sit around twiddling their di**s - trying to fathom a new-fangled way to unveil a bump in the road - that's okey-dokey just the way it is?

Surely, you've heard the old expression, fellas.

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it?"

What's next?

Pink caution signs at crosswalks?

As I cruised around the neighborhood, things got curiouser and curiouser.

Ah, lookie there!

A street sign warned about a safety hump ahead.

Yes, don't forget your rubbers when humping, motorists!

Another (a scant mile on) indicated there was a speed hump just down-a-ways.

For quickies on lunch break, I expect?

Now, I spied a twist to the whole hump scenario.

Indeed, now I was being enlightened about a dip, on the horizon.

I suppose a dip is the opposite of a hump?.

That's when you don't go in all the way, but just sort-of test the waters a bit?



Signs underscore the ongoing lunacy in sign erection these days

Methedrine...Drug addicts unusual request. Party girl "Tina" prevails in West Hollywood!

After tossing my dirty laundry into the washer, I headed outside for the normal routine.

With dustpan and whisk in hand, I vigorously began to scour the inside of my vehicle, so that it would be pristine clean before the cycles in the laundromat were complete.

As I stepped over to throw some trash in a garbage receptacle a hop-and-a-skip away, I noticed two young men casually chatting in the front seat of a late-model Mercedes Benz.

The driver was kind-of cute with a distinctive gleam in his eye.

When I opened up the back hatch of the SUV, the duo pulled up alongside of me.

"This may be an odd question," the mid-thirties chap forewarned me.

"But, are you clean? I mean, have you been drinking or taking any drugs in the past two days?"

Say what?

I hesitated for a sec, then politely responded, "no".

"My friend," he uttered under his breath, "has to take a drug test. He needs some clean urine."

At this juncture, I peered in the front window and noticed an African-American male in dark wrap-around sunglasses sitting in the passenger side, with a two gallon plastic jug in his lap.

Without skipping a beat, the obvious rounder moved in for the kill,

"Can you give us some urine?"

"Sorry, No." I responded without skipping a beat.

Then, off they sped.

Unfortunately, the problem with "Tina" - Methedryne - has reached epic proportions around the country. So much so - that in West Hollywood and other gay communities in San Francisco and New York - a handful of organizations have engaged in an all-out effort to try to curb the insidious reach of the nasty drug.

A current billboard campaign says it all:

"I lost me to Meth"

The problem isn't necessarily the cost of the drug.

No, it's the addictive qualities of the sexual stimulant - both physically and psychologically - that make its effect so devasting in the community at large (both gay and straight).

Many addicts have lost their jobs, and their homes, as loved ones finally gave up in dismay and turned their backs.

The decline can be quick, too.

About eight months ago, I used to see a good-looking well-built young man around the neighborhood, the epitome of good humor and great health.

Gainfully employed, too.

Within months, I have noticed a marked difference.

For example, his hygiene has deteriorated rapidly, at times he appears to be disoriented in the street, and - judging from the tote bag he's been dragging around the streets - it is evident that he has become homeless, as well.

Lost his job, too; so the gossip-mongers say.

The rumor is that he is addicted to meth!

What are some physical signs that someone is using methamphetamine?

For starters, there is a lot of teeth grinding, obsessive picking of the face or body, hallucinations (in what one sees and hears), euphoria, extreme energy, inability to sleep for days, dramatic weight loss, paranoia and violent behavior.

I've witnessed six of the factors in the young man I just spoke of.


Methamphetamine is a stimulant that affects the body’s central nervous system.

Commonly known as - "crystal," "speed," "meth," or "Tina" - methamphetamine is an off-white odorless crystalline powder that tastes bitter and easily dissolves in water.

The popular high may be smoked, snorted, injected or swallowed.

Methamphetamine increases energy and suppresses appetite. It slows digestion and increases alertness and concentration. The effects last from six to twelve hours or more. Depending on how much or how long one uses, one can become easily agitated, which can sometimes lead to violent behavior.

Methamphetamine, like cocaine, strongly activates the reward and pleasure systems of the brain, particularly three important brain chemicals called neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine.

As a result, methamphetamine elevates mood, induces euphoria, increases alertness, reduces fatigue, increases energy, decreases appetite, increases movement and speech, and/or provides a sense of increased personal power.

If you've ever met someone high on "Tina", they'll usually ask you if you "party".

No, this does not mean would you like to go "dancing" or indulge in a harmless social cocktail or two.

Essentially, when the question is posed, the addict is seeking another "tweeker" to share the experience (and the cost of it) with.

God forbid, you should meet someone high on the junk.

It's a very frustrating sexual experience - no matter what an Adonis they may be - to wait out the ups-and-downs of a rubber dick so the both of you can finally "get off" fourteen hours later!

I say, walk the other way.

After all, the drug eventually "hijacks" the reward and pleasure system.

In addition, Methamphetamine increases blood pressure, heart rate and sweating, and causes anxiety, irritability, insomnia, paranoia, and sometimes even psychosis.

Once the high wears off, mental and physical exhaustion set in, often with a deep depression that sometimes includes thoughts of suicide.

Methamphetamine is usually found in a crystalline powder form that is off-white, odorless, bitter-tasting, and dissolvable in water.

Ingredients used in methamphetamine production are highly toxic, potentially explosive, and/or flammable.


Methamphetamine emerged as a party drug for gay and bisexual men during the 1990s - and it is attributed to lowering inhibitions and contributing to high-risk sexual behaviors that often spread - HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C - and other sexually transmitted diseases.

What can an individual expect when coming down or withdrawing from meth?
Methamphetamine withdrawal - or "crashing" symptoms - can last from days to weeks and involve loss of energy, depression, fearfulness, prolonged sleep or difficulty sleeping, shaking, nausea, sweating, hyperventilation, increased appetite, irritability and drug craving.

Methamphetamine causes long lasting changes in brain chemistry, particularly in the pleasure systems of the brain, as well. These dramatic changes impact abilities such as memory, judgment, and reasoning. Other long-term effects include extreme cravings for the drug and dreams of use.

These brain changes do not disappear quickly after an addict stops using methamphetamine and are important factors leading to relapse.

Once an addict discontinues the drug - and gets treatment - it is wholly possible for a normal lifestyle to return.

The sooner a user gets into treatment, the better; and, the longer a user stays in treatment, the greater the chances that treatment will be effective.

Treatment is possible for methamphetamine dependence through a variety of services, including residential treatment.

Because Methamphetamine causes specific problems for the user, the issues must be addressed in a treatment program that is customized for the individual addict.

A Methamphetamine overdose can cause serious damage to the individual's health - including failure of vital organs such as the kidney and heart.

For every pound of methamphetamine manufactured, approximately six pounds of toxic waste is created.

In the final analysis, this waste is often deposited in backyards, storm drains, parks, and along roadsides.

Yuck!

The California Methamphetamine Initiative (CMI) is a statewide effort created by the California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP) to reduce the use and abuse of methamphetamine by Californians.

The CMI seeks to prevent methamphetamine abuse, encourage discontinuing use, and motivate individuals to seek help through community outreach and treatment.

The efforts of the CMI include education for practitioners on promising practices in prevention and treatment, as well as active local collaboration with existing anti-methamphetamine efforts by county programs and community-based organizations to address the growing methamphetamine problem in California.

Also, an important part of the CMI’s efforts is a research-based statewide advetising and public relations campaign, "I lost me to Meth".

Help is available for addicts at the following toll-free number:

1-866-STP-METH
1-866-787-6384

White party...P.S. I love you. Circuit Blast hosted by Jeffrey Sanker!

Well, the White Party kicks off next week in Las Vegas.

To gay men, it's comparable to the super bowl for straight guys.

From October 10th thru 13th - the exotic desert oasis will be inundated with a truckload or two of biceps and studly bods hailing from all corners of the civilized planet - Miami, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles.

Uh-huh!

DJ Brett Henrichsen will rev up the dance floor at Friday's "BEACH BALL" event which will feature the hottest models in AUSSIEBUM swimwear.

Saturday's WHITE PARTY (DJ ABEL spinning) will take off at the trendy-setting HOUSE OF BLUES where a state-of-the-art concert sound and sizzling light show is sure to dazzle.

At press time - special appearances by LADY GAGA and Sagiv and Max (Cher Returns) - were firmed up.

While a number of the bodacious boys will kow-tow to tradition and dress to the nines in all-manner of chic outerwear in pristine shades of white (with a strong display of tats and raw flesh) - a rebellious handful may go for the gusto in sultry black to thumb their noses at the crowd.

Upstarts!

The POOL PARTY at Mandalay Bay on Sunday promises to be the biggest splash of the year, though, with DJ Morningstar stirring up the senses.

But, the party-hearty, will still be dancing away the 'til the wee hours at Sunday Night's Studio 54 Bash, in a backdrop that will feature wall-walkers, sensual videos, live dancers, and a spectacular light and sound show.

A pride of beauteous boys will no doubt be schmoozing, sashaying, strutting - and likewise - stroking away the night with caution thrown to the cool night breezes fluttering in off the desert.

When I asked a couple of pals if they planned to zip down to the desert hot spot this week, they shrugged.

"We're not into circuit parties."

Yes - the annual event is known to be part of the "circuit" - a high-profile boy-toy weekend out with a naughty reputation, to boot.

The phenomenon first sprang from early tea dances (wild rainbow-themed parties) tossed on Fire Island in the heady days of gay liberation a couple of decades ago.

The circuit soirees came on the heels of underground rave parties, and were run by savvy multi-sexual trend-setters, who publicized and professionally produced 'em with a lot pizzazz.

As a result, the must-attend parties attracted a scintillating social mix.

Show-biz music headliners were also booked to lure in the trendy jet-set.


While the parties are open to anyone these days, the circuit events are generally perceived as social hubs for the active gay man.

A big attraction?

The highly-touted offerings are typically lavish, prestigious affairs - with elaborate lighting, music, and decor with widespread appeal to the A-list man - held in venues that can accommodate their all-encompassing circle of friends.

But, the events are costly.

Even the most far-reaching party-goers don't attend all the events; after all, there are too many calendared across a wide expanse to afford a catch-all for most.

If a die-hard circuit officionado manages to pull off the stunt, then he's truly a golden circuit boy, by any stretch of the imagination.

Circuit parties are known to attract a broad demographic - from shy young dudes just out - to totally liberated gays in their mid-twenties and up active in the rainbow hub.

Expect to spy a handful of well-tooled silver-haired "daddies" in their 50s, too.

Couples in long-term relationships are still inclined to savor the events also.

In essence, the parties are a tribal cultural event.

Some say, circuit parties are analogous to a ritual holiday for the gay/lesbian/transgender community and a "celebration" of gay life, liberated sexuality, and freedom of expression.

In sum, the white party experience is a war cry that calls attention to the power, strength, and unity of the gay community.

Critics allege that circuit parties are a breeding ground for illicit drug abuse, though.

Throngs of young vibrant men, bent on partying all night - and enhancing each glorious sensual moment - are known to use the addictive booster "Tina" (known as meth and crystal).

For this reason, there has been a concerted effort by responsible members of the community to curb an outbreak of addiction, which has proven to be costly for many participants.

Some have lost their jobs, lovers, vibrant health, self-esteem - and a capacity to thirst for precious life - due to chronic addiction.

Many outreach programs have raised concerns about the underpinnings of circuit parties; particularly, with regard to the misuse of drugs (including alcohol, marijuana, methamphetamine, and ecstasy.

The warnings about potential overdose, dehydration, and impaired judgment (leading to unsafe sex and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases) have been underscored, but often fall on deaf ears.

In fact, circuit parties have been blamed for crystal addiction and the rampant transmission of a handful of virulent sexually-transmitted diseases - such as HIV and Hepatitis - among gay men within the borders of North America.

Notwithstanding, the circuit parties have been bad-mouthed on the grounds that they are superficial, too.

The whole emphasis, for example, appears to be on looks, sexual appeal, and being with the "in" crowd.

If you feel embarrassed about taking your shirt off, then you may feel uncomfortable at the Las Vegas weekend blast.

After all, guys around the country have been working out for months to sculpt the perfect body to show off at the extravaganza next weekend.

When these dudes toss off their "T's", to reveal perfect pecs and rippling abs, heads will swoon.

An adrenalin rush for everyone, no doubt.

But, the cries of hedonism are not unfounded.

Just flip through any major gay lifestyle magazine. Half the ads are for plastic surgery, nose jobs, and teeth whitening. The other fifty percent are blurbs for lawyers who specialize in DUI's and lewd conduct in public places.

Does this reflect the underbelly of the gay culture, warts and all?

No matter, just because a handful of revelers are inclined to overindulge, doesn't mean you can't get away for a zesty day or two of fun in the desert with your "brothers and sisters".

The VIP high-profile events have been orchestrated by pro party person - affable Jeffrey Sanker - the undisputed "King of White".

A few years ago, as I was munching on a salad at the front counter at the ever-popular French Marketplace, Sanker and I engaged in idle chit-chat.

Of course, I didn't have a clue who the young hottie was.

In the course of the conversation, I guess I dropped a bombshell, when I innocently batted my eyelashes and quipped.

"And, what do you do?"

"I throw parties," he responded without hesitation.

Later, I learned that was quite an understatement, if ever there was one.

But, you don't have to attend all the scintillating events, or haul your a** into the dark starry night 24/7.

Or fall prey to peer pressure, either.

Just drop down on the sidelines at the pool party, sip on an exotic cocktail or two, and quietly take in a few rays.

Or, top off a day of sight-seeing with an energy-boosting appearance at one of the party extravaganzas later in the evening, before heading home.

Say "no" to Tina, though!