Marie Curie gave her life for science unwittingly by being exposed to high levels of radiation before knowing the consequences. In fact, her notebooks are so radioactive that they are stored in lead cases.
We have our own version of a woman who is making her life’s work helping our LGBTQ community. Unlike Dr. Curie, Phyllis is not in harm’s way from her Health PS Test patients who rely on the organization for STI and HIV testing and treatment.
Dr. Phyllis Ritchie is finding ways to stop and prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS and STIs here in the Coachella Valley by founding and funding PS Test. She and her husband personally do so, but had built the organization up with grants and funding. However, a cut in that funding from Riverside County with no notice has put PS Test in financial difficulty.
I recently joined the board of PS Test, and today am using my platform to make an appeal to you to support this organization. We’re working on alternative funding sources, plus have a couple of fundraising ideas percolating. But for now, if this organization’s mission speaks to you, please consider a donation.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Christy Holstege for Assembly Birthday Fundraiser
Come out to support Christy Holstege for Assembly at a Birthday Fundraiser & Drag Show on Tuesday, August 20 from 5–7 pm at Toucans. Hosted by the fabulous Sabryna Williams, along with Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein, Mayor Pro Tem Ron DeHarte, the honorable Grace Garner, the honorable Lisa Middleton, and many more. Get tickets
Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus Auditions
The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus is holding auditions on Tuesday, August 20 by appointment from 6–8 pm at Mizell Center. PSGMC strives to create a comfortable and supportive environment for their auditions, in a private setting with only the artistic director, accompanist, and potentially a small group directors present. Feel free to prepare your own song or let their talented pianist assist you in finding the perfect key. There will be an additional opportunity to audition on Tuesday, August 27 from 8:45–10 pm, following an open rehearsal that starts at 7 pm. More info
The Center Women’s Social at Alice B.
Join the LGBTQ Community Center of The Desert for a delightful evening of connection and camaraderie at their monthly Women’s Social on Wednesday, August 21 from 5:30–7 pm at Alice B restaurant at Living Out Palm Springs. Enjoy delicious happy hour bites and drinks while mingling with other inspiring women. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, make new friends, and celebrate the spirit of community! More info
Job Fair: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Calling all job seekers: The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Palm Desert’s largest resort sprawling over 450 acres, is hosting a two-day job fair hiring event on Wednesday August 21, and Thursday August 22, from 9 am–5 pm in the Sinatra Ballroom. This is your chance to land your dream job at this luxurious resort. They’re seeking talented individuals for a variety of departments, including Housekeeping, Culinary, and Front Desk. Many positions offer immediate interviews and job offers! More info
Squeeze and Boy George
British band Squeeze brings their Summer 2024 North American Tour to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage on Friday, August 23 at 7:30 pm. Culture Club’s legendary lead singer Boy George joins the band on the road this year. Expect a night filled with unforgettable hits like “Tempted,” “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell),” “Karma Chameleon,” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me.” Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic of the 80s with these two legendary acts. Get tickets
Kings of Leon
Kings Of Leon bring their Can We Please Have Fun Tour to Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert on Friday, August 23 at 8 pm. Formed in 1999, Kings of Leon are an American rock band known for their blend of Southern rock, blues, and alternative influences. They achieved early success in the UK before hitting it big in the US with hits like “Sex on Fire” and “Use Somebody.” Get tickets
Beat the Desert Heat with a Tramway Adventure
Escape the summer sun and ascend to cooler heights with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where you can enjoy guided nature walks at 11 am and 1:30 pm every Sunday this month or choose to explore the mountain’s trails at your own pace. But hurry – the tramway closes for annual maintenance on September 9. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, August 20
Robert Drake the Authentic Fake | 7 pm at Oscar’s Downtown Palm Springs
Wednesday, August 21
Volunteer for Will Rollins for Congress | 10 am–12 pm
Summer Speaker Series: Cotino™ a Storyliving by Disney™ community and The Living Desert | 11:30 am–1 pm at Mission Hills Country Club
Brad Mercer and The Profile | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
The Gay Naked Talk Show w/Skyler Gentry feat. MuscleBearManny | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Thursday, August 22
Dan Olivo | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, August 23
Summer Sunset Art Walk | 4–7 pm at Perez Art District
Friday Night Vibes Pool Party | 6–9 pm at Hotel Zoso
Comedy Night at Hotel Zoso | 9 pm
BearUnion | 8 pm–4 am at Club 541
Saturday, August 24
Cocktails and Culinary Series: Noche Española | 5–7 pm at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Kim Jong-Seo & So Chan-Whee | 7 pm at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Sunday, August 25
Bob & Bing: High Society | 3 pm screening at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Ask a Gay Doc Ep 11: MPOX Global Health Emergency
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 11, John and Dr. Corzanodiscuss the World Health Organization’s MPOX global public health emergency. The MPOX clade 1 variant is spreading. Learn about it and stay safe! Watch the Ask a Gay Doc series, and find out how you can submit your own questions, on the Ask a Gay Doc page at kgaypalmsprings.com.
The Coachella Valley Independent‘s annual Best of Coachella Valley reader’s poll is now accepting nominations, a fill-in-the-blank round that is open through through Friday, Aug. 30. We would love a repeat of our wins last year! Write-in your nominations for Best Local DJ under the “Arts” section: KGAY 106.5 Retro Lunch Djs: DJ Eric Ornelas and DJ Galaxy, and DJ Modgirl of the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance! Then, under the “Life in the Valley” section, for Best Local Radio Personality please consider John Taylor of the KGAY 106.5 Morning Show, and Patrick Evans of 103.1 MeTV FM. Fnally, also under “Life in the Valley,” for Best Radio Station, please nominate KGAY 106.5 of course! Nominate Today