Quietly, Richard Bass passed away last week, as friends lived vicariously through his final days after a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis. He documented his final month on Caring Bridge, a platform for family caregivers and the loved ones they support on a health journey.
Richard’s legacy is an organization he founded called PALS, Planning Ahead for LGBTQ+ Seniors, which he founded in 2013. Why? In his words:
As I am getting older, I am experiencing health crises and loss reminiscent of the AIDS crisis of the 80’s and 90’s. Recently, it wasn’t until a friend’s partner suddenly became paralyzed did they begin conversations as to care (now what do we do?). And when another man wasn’t responding to calls or emails, he was discovered deceased after two days with no one having access to his house. Another had prepared no legal documents, resulting in the State making determinations with no knowledge of his wishes.
With no children or affirming family members, many LGBTQ+ people face unique challenges for having such conversations in the first place. At the time, I could only wring my hands as I and others floundered.
Enough! In 2013, I set up a Steering Committee to help guide and develop programs that inform and support planning ahead, while also combating isolation, ageism and sexism in the LGBTQ+ community. I am comforted to be surrounded by scores of pals who now know how to look out for themselves and each other.
Richard’s journey ended as he wished — as a textbook PALS case. All arrangements were made, friends and family keeping tabs on him and fully supporting his wishes. We should all be so fortunate.
I worked with Richard as we were a part of the Positively Aging Conference held each September. (This year’s is Sept. 20th). I dutifully collected their information, and provided a listing on our Gay Desert Guide site for the organization. Now, I’m going to be engaging with PALS to make sure that my wishes are known. So when the time comes, I can pass with dignity like Richard did.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Nominate KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 is now open for nominations—and it’s time to spotlight the voices and vibes that make our community shine. Cast your vote for your favorites! We suggest, of course: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor and Patrick Evans in Life in the Valley > Best Local Radio Personality, and our dynamic DJ trio—DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl—in Arts > Best Local DJ. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, August 29, so get your nominations in today!
Recap: Guadalupe’s House Party
Guadalupe’s House Party turned the Palm Springs Art Museum into a throwback this past Friday, channeling the energy of a 90s house party with live DJs, custom hat-making, and a fully operational tattoo studio—yes, the ink was real. The immersive exhibit drew a packed crowd and sold out completely, proving that nostalgia, creativity, and bold self-expression still know how to bring the house down!
TUE–SUN: The Purple Room’s 12th Season Begins
Swing back into action as Michael Holmes’ Purple Room kicks off its 12th sensational season! Weeknights at The Purple Room Supper Club are a dazzling blend of music, martinis, and mid-century magic. Enjoy all-night happy hour at the bar Tuesday–Thursday, with Grammy-nominated Chris Bennett (Tue & Thu) and piano prodigy Kevin Tokarz (Wed) setting the tone from 4–6 pm. Then settle in for live entertainment from 6:30–9:30 pm—no ticket required, just reservations. Tuesdays feature jazz legend Rose Mallett, Wednesdays bring Darci Daniels and Michael Holmes channeling the Rat Pack era, and Thursdays bloom with La Vie en Rose, starring French violinist Jeremie Levi Samson and his Broadway-style quartet. The opening weekend kicks off with two sold-out nights of Lucie Arnaz, whose musical storytelling has wowed audiences nationwide. Then on Sunday, August 31, The Judy Show! returns in full technicolor—a hysterical parody packed with classic standards, outrageous comedy, and a whirlwind of beloved icons. Let the season begin! Get tickets
TUE: 5th Annual PSP Job Fair
Palm Springs International Airport hosts its 5th Annual Job Fair on Tuesday, August 26 from 10 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center Lobby. With more than 200 open positions across airlines, concessions, security, parking, and more, job seekers are invited to bring their resumes and interview on the spot. Roles include ramp agents, bartenders, retail associates, transportation security officers, and customer service representatives. More info
WED: The Center Social – August
Connect, unwind, and share good vibes at The August Center Social on Wednesday, August 27 from 5:30–7 pm at the ACE Hotel & Swim Club and we encourage you to bring your swimwear and towel! Hosted every fourth Wednesday, this free happy hour gathering is your chance to meet friends old and new in an inclusive, welcoming setting. Bring your energy, your smile, and your curiosity—community begins here. More info
FRI: Richard Marx
Experience the enduring voice behind countless romantic anthems when Richard Marx performs live on Friday, August 29 from 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. From classic ballads to masterful songwriting, this special evening invites fans to reconnect with a soundtrack that has defined generations. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, August 25
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Wednesday, August 27
Bariatric Surgery Information with Bobby Bhasker-Rao, MD | 5:30–7 pm Eisenhower Health Virtual Meeting
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, August 28
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 7–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, Aug 29
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, Aug 30
LGBTQIA Higher Powered OA Meeting | 11:30 am at Sunny Dunes Clubhouse
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Goin Hamm Line Dance w/Jim Drew | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, Aug 31
Guided Hikes | 11 am & 1:30 pm at San Jacinto State Park (Tramway Mountain Station)
Go to GayDesertGuide.com for all events.
