It’s not lost on many that the dichotomy of Pottersville and Bedford Falls in “It’s a Wonderful Life” is an allegory for the ages. Especially the age we are living in.
We get to see what the town would have been like if George Bailey hadn’t ever existed – instead of the heartfelt community spirit of Bedford Falls, we had the bleak and commercialized atmosphere of Pottersville. These cities showcase a stark contrast to what George’s life and contributions meant to the people around him, filled with seedy nightlife and shadowy dealings that prioritize profit over people. The absence of his kindness and dedication to helping others reveals a society where despair reigns, demonstrating just how crucial one person’s impact can be on an entire community’s fate.
Our president stands in nicely for bank president Mr. Potter, who asks, “Are you running a business or a charity ward? Not with my money!”
But who is our Jimmy Stewart? Who will not off themselves because of all the turmoil in the world and change the trajectory of our America? And what will be the aftermath? We’ve already had our taste of Pottersville.
CBS Sunday Morning did a piece on the movie and its origin in Seneca Falls, NY. The curator of the “It’s A Wonderful Life” museum was asked about the state of the world today. “It’s trying to be Mr. Potter’s world, I think. But I think there’s enough George Baileys out there that it’s gonna balance their direction.”
As Andy Borowitz wrote on Substack, “When this s**tshow is over, all the assets of the Trump family should be seized to pay for the reconstruction of the USA”. That certainly would go a long way to get our beloved Bedford-Falls America back.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: Pops at the Plaza – The Most Wonderful Time of Year
Celebrate the season in style at the Plaza Theatre on Monday, December 22 at 7:30 pm with a heartwarming holiday concert from the Palm Springs Pops. This festive evening features beloved carols, pop favorites, and timeless classics performed by an all-star lineup including Lizzie Sosa, Carole J. Bufford, the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Coachella Valley Classical Voices, and KESQ-TV’s Peter Daut. With storytelling, song, and a special visit from Santa, this joyful celebration promises to become Palm Springs’ newest holiday tradition. Get tickets
MON: The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas
The Palm Springs Art Museum presents The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas opening Monday, December 22 and running through Sunday, January 25. Drawn from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, this exhibition highlights how two groundbreaking artists have redefined the female nude and challenged its role in art history. More info
TUE–SUN: A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical
From Tuesday–Sunday, December 23–28, the McCallum Theatre hosts A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, a high-energy celebration of one of America’s most iconic hitmakers. Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, this inspiring Broadway-style production traces his journey from Brooklyn kid to global superstar, featuring beloved classics like “Sweet Caroline,” “America,” and “Forever in Blue Jeans.” Get tickets
TUE: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – Wild N Swinging Holiday Party
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy brings their Wild N Swinging Holiday Party to the Plaza Theatre on Tuesday, December 23 at 7 pm. Celebrating 32 years of high-energy performances and horn-driven jazz, this legendary band delivers a festive fusion of swing, Dixieland, and holiday cheer. With a lineup of original members and a legacy that includes over 3,000 shows and appearances from Swingers to the Super Bowl Halftime Show, this concert is a jingle-bell-rocking night that’s pure vintage cool. Get tickets
WED: White Christmas Sing-A-Long
The Plaza Theatre invites guests to celebrate the season with a festive favorite, the White Christmas Sing-A-Long, on Wednesday, December 24 at3 pm. The dazzling song-and-dance duo of Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye team up with the sparkling sister act of Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen for a heartwarming Christmas spectacular in snowy Vermont. This merry screening will include free jingle bells and a pre-film sing-a-long featuring some favorite Christmas classics. Get tickets
Christmas Eve and Day at The Purple Room
Celebrate Christmas Eve and Day in classic Palm Springs style at Michael Holmes’ Purple Room Supper Club, where elegance meets holiday cheer. On Wednesday and Thursday, December 24–25 from 6:30–9 pm, enjoy a festive three-course dinner featuring prime rib, Scottish salmon, vegan lasagna, and more, all set to the smooth sounds of the Kevin Tokarz Jazz Quartet. With vintage glamour, seasonal favorites, and an intimate supper club vibe, this holiday experience promises timeless charm. More info
FRI: Happy Birthday KGAY!
KGAY celebrates our 7th birthday this Christmas, marking seven years since the station first debuted its now‑beloved LGBTQ+ focused format at FM 106.5 on Wednesday, December 26, 2018. As KGAY steps proudly into its 8th year, we continue to champion Palm Springs’ vibrant community with the music, voices, and spirit that have made KGAY a local favorite from the very beginning.
FRI: A Holiday Celebration Starring Debbie Wileman as Judy Garland
On Friday, December 26 at 7:30 pm, the Plaza Theatre hosts We Need a Little Christmas: A Holiday Celebration starring Debbie Wileman in her acclaimed tribute to Judy Garland. Direct from London and fresh off her album I’m Still Here, Wileman channels Garland’s legendary voice in a festive concert filled with holiday classics and imagined favorites Judy might sing today. Get tickets
Holidays at the Tram
Celebrate the season at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with special holiday hours from Saturday, December 20 through Sunday, January 4, with the first tram up at 8 am and last tram down at 9:30 pm. On both Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the Pines Café offers a Ride ’n’ Dine holiday meal featuring turkey, ham, or vegetarian lasagna. For a fine‑dining experience on Christmas Day, Peaks Restaurant. presents a special prix fixe menu with selections such as roasted duck, pan‑seared salmon, or filet mignon. Reservations are recommended for Peaks.
ENDS SUNDAY: Best of Desert Voting Round
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Voting Round runs now through Sunday, December 28. The top nominees in each category now compete for your daily votes to determine the winners. Please vote KGAY! When casting your ballot, choose “DJ Mod Girl” (our Modgirl Kellee McQuinn) for Entertainment & Leisure – People: Radio Personality/Show, and select KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM for Entertainment & Leisure – Radio Station (Local). Cast votes in 25 or more categories for a chance to win a $250 gift card! More info
Magic of Lights
The holiday season sparkles once again as Magic of Lights illuminates the Empire Polo Club in Indio through Wednesday, December 31. Families can enjoy a twinkling drive‑through light display and the enchanting Holiday Village powered by IID. Now in its fourth year, this beloved tradition transforms the Coachella Valley into a breathtaking winter wonderland, shining brightly under the desert stars. Get tickets
🍄 Ask a Gay Doc Episode 30: Therapeutic Mushrooms
Dr. Renzo Corzano and KGAY’s John Taylor are answering your health-related questions in the Ask A Gay Doc series, sponsored by Desert Oasis Healthcare. In Episode 30, John and Dr. Corzano interview Heather A. Lee, LCSW, a Licensed Psychedelic Psychotherapist on the therapeutic benefits of mushrooms.
For all events go to GayDesertGuide.com
