This has been a year of retrospection for me. I’ve been looking back at my 50+ year career in radio and journalism that started at my hometown radio station and newspaper. Heck, even before that at my junior high newspaper.
I’ve posited about what’s happening in our world and how we’ll survive this authoritarian president who could easily target us for our DEI ‘wokeness’ and rabble-rousing on KGAY.
Two podcasts have allowed me to tell my “coming out” story — albeit in much different ways. Today, “Big Conversations, Little Bar” dropped, and I went back to listen to what I had shared with hosts Patrick Evans and Randy Florence. It’s an audio history of my career from age 15 to today. (The other was Believing Bolder which dropped last month.)
As I look back, I can’t help thinking about how difficult it was to come out of the closet as a young person. Saturday was National Coming Out Day, and it seemed to pass with little fanfare. That’s because coming out is so different today. Not necessarily easier, depending on your family situation, but with more role models and resources.
As a kid, there were none for me — except Liberace and Paul Lynde…
An article from USA TODAY talks about how YouTube has made a big impact on youth finding community and seeking role models as they grapple with coming out. This is especially true for our trans youth. While many young people have migrated to TikTok and podcasts, there’s no doubt that YouTube provided sanctuary.
I hope my story will give a future generation of content creators and entrepreneurs the catalyst to carry the torch, and continue what I’ve been a part of in LGBTQ+ media over the years. And I hope for the day when coming out is just a simple declaration with no reverberation.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: Tramway Reopens
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopens Monday, October 13 following its annual maintenance closure, with trams running every 30 minutes from 10 am–8 pm and the last tram down at 9:30 pm. Recent upgrades include carriage rebuilding, rope replacement, and system testing—ensuring a smoother, safer ride to the top. Also: This weekend is the Tram Road Challenge, a 3.7-mile (6K Run/Walk) climb with 1800 feet of elevation gain, this Saturday morning, October 17! More info
TUE: Wicked Trans and Nonbinary Tuesday
Wicked Trans and Non Binary Tuesday creeps into Trixie Motel on Tuesday, October 14 from 6–8 pm for a spellbinding night of music, dancing, and spooky good vibes. Come dressed to slay and celebrate in a frightfully festive space where everyone is welcome and the energy is hauntingly joyful. More info
WED: The Center Queer Women’s Social
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites LGBTQ+ women to gather for an evening of connection and community at the Queer Women’s Social on Wednesday, October 15 from 5:30–7 pm. Held every third Wednesday of the month, this welcoming event offers a relaxed space to meet new friends, share stories, and enjoy meaningful conversation. More info
THU: 2025 Pride Honors Awards
The 2025 Coachella Valley Pride Honors Awards returns to Hilton Palm Springs on Thursday, October 16 from 5:30–7:30 pm for an evening of celebration, recognition, and community spirit. This inspiring ceremony honors trailblazers who uplift the LGBTQ+ community through advocacy, leadership, and creativity. This year’s honorees include Loren Ostrow, Honey Davenport, Courageous Resistance Indivisible of the Desert, Ben and Bob Kincaid, Valerie Milano, and Rev. Jane Voigts. Join fellow activists, allies, and supporters in honoring these champions of pride and progress. Get tickets
STARTS THU: Modernism Week – October
Modernism Week returns to Palm Springs with its signature fall celebration Thursday–Sunday, October 16–19. This immersive festival showcases midcentury modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design, and vintage style through more than 50 curated experiences (Here are a few highlights). From exclusive home tours to lively social gatherings, each event highlights the city’s rich design heritage and the enduring appeal of modernist aesthetics. A portion of proceeds supports local preservation and community initiatives. All activities are open to the public. More info
THU: Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me
Join the Tolerance Education Center on Thursday, October 16 from 6–7:30 pm for a powerful screening of Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me, a documentary by acclaimed filmmaker Sam Pollard. This compelling portrait traces Davis’ legendary career and complex identity through the lens of civil rights, race, and resilience. Featuring rare footage and interviews with Hollywood icons, the film offers an intimate look at one of America’s most dynamic entertainers. RSVP
FRI: Center Stage Gala
The Center Stage Gala returns to the Palm Springs Air Museum on Friday, October 17 from 5:30–9 pm with the inspiring theme Creating Impact Together. This powerful evening celebrates the collective strength of the LGBTQ+ community across the Coachella Valley—from Palm Springs to Coachella and beyond. Honoring Jeff Weyant and Marty Massiello with The Center’s Legacy Award, and hosted by Honorary Co-Chairs Chief Andy Mills and Cathy Mills, the gala highlights the transformative work of The Center and its growing reach. Guests will enjoy dinner, community connection, and a special musical performance by Marisa Corvo. More info
STARTS FRI: The Inheritance – Part 2
The Bent Theatre Company presents The Inheritance – Part 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre, running Friday, October 17–Sunday, November 2. Inspired by E.M. Forster’s Howards End, this sweeping drama explores three generations of gay men as they navigate survival, identity, and the meaning of home. Whether or not you saw Part One, audiences will be seamlessly caught up before diving into this emotional journey of connection, reckoning, and renewal. Adult content; nudity included. Get tickets
FRI: Country and Pop Dance Party
The Rainbow Alliance at the Spiritual Center of the Desert presents Boots on the Ground: Country & Pop Dance Party on Friday, October 17 from 6–10 pm. Guests are invited to enjoy dinner, dancing, libations, raffle prizes, and live music from the high-energy band Pulp Vixen. Dust off your boots and join a night of joy, laughter, and community spirit. Get tickets
FRI–SUN: Modernism Fall Show
The 11th annual Palm Springs Modernism Show–Fall returns to the Palm Springs Convention Center on Saturday–Sunday, October 18–19, showcasing a curated mix of vintage 20th century treasures and original 21st century designs, with all items available for purchase. Saturday’s show runs from 10 am–6 pm, then 10 am–4 pm on Sunday. Guests can also attend the festive Preview Party on Friday, October 17 from 6–8 pm, benefiting Modernism Week and offering early access to shop the show in style. More info
FRI–SUN: Little Women: The Broadway Musical
Musical Theatre University proudly kicks off its twelfth season with the Tony-nominated hit, Little Women: The Broadway Musical. Based on the beloved novel by Louisa May Alcott, with music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and book by Allan Knee, this heartwarming production is described as Broadway’s “happiest and heartfelt musical hit.” Audiences can catch the talented students, accompanied by a full sixteen-piece Broadway orchestra, on Friday, October 17 at 7:30 pm, Saturday, October 18 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, October 19 at 2 pm. The performances take place at the Helene Galen Performing Arts Center. Get tickets
The Cottage
Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage runs through Sunday, November 2. Set in the 1920s, this stylish and scandalous romp follows one woman’s daring decision to expose her affair—unleashing a whirlwind of secrets, betrayal, and absurd hilarity. With razor-sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the production offers a wickedly funny take on love, marriage, and the messiness in between. Get tickets
Take the LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites Coachella Valley residents to take part in its new LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey, designed to gather insights that will shape future programs, services, and advocacy efforts. By sharing lived experiences, participants help strengthen community support and ensure that local voices are heard and valued.
Best of Desert Nominations
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Nomination Round runs now through Wednesday, October 22. This is your chance to show love for local favorites in the “Entertainment & Leisure” category—consider nominating DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl for DJ Event/Wedding; John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Radio Personality/Show; and KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM for Radio Station – Local. Submit nominations daily and if you nominate in 25 or more categories, you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card. Let’s celebrate the voices, beats, and stations that keep the desert dancing! Nominate here
Get our Pride 2025 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out our Pride 2025 Edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide —just released! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places for Food & Drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Attractions, Gay Resorts with passes, Dispensaries, and other services. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
Vote KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley!
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round Ballot—Thank you for the incredible support and strong showing in this year’s nominations—now’s the time to vote and help spotlight your favorites to win! Our contenders include: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel 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 Sunday, October 29. Cast your vote today!
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, October 13
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, October 15
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, October 16
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Complexions Contemporary Ballet | 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Thursday–Sunday, October 16–19
Western Xposure: XXL | CCBC Resort
Friday, October 17
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
La Quinta Fall Festival | 5–9 pm at La Quinta Park
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Meghan Murphy: Adventures from A Broad | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
Halloween Movie in the Park: Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice | 7 pm at Sunrise Park
Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Celtic Thunder: An Intimate Evening | 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Saturday, October 18
Tram Road Challenge 6K Run/Walk | 5:15–10 am near the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Tantric Sex: The Sacred Journey Beyond the Ordinary | Sat & Sun 10 am– 6 pm in Cathedral City
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Opening Reception: “Luminescent Landscapes” by Stephan Smith | 4–7 pm at Brian Marki Fine Art
Modernism Art District Tour | 11 am–6 pm
NO KINGS Palm Springs | 4 pm at Sunrise Park
Coachella Valley Firebirds vs. Colorado Eagles | 6 pm at Acrisure Arena
Meghan Murphy: Adventures from A Broad | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
Tyler Henry: An Evening of Hope and Healing | 8 pm at The Show
Comedian Henry Cho | 8 pm at The McCallum Theatre
Sunday, October 19
Dishin’ with Divine feat. Eureka! | 4 pm at Revolution Stage Co.
The Judy Show! | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
