HATE EMBOLDENED is the cover story in the March issue of the Coachella Valley Independent. In it, Publisher Jimmy Boegle’s team outlines a spate of incidents that have bedeviled our bubble since the election.
From threats of violence against Cathedral City’s LGBT+ Days next weekend to “the bullhorn bully”, those who hate feel uninhibited to express themselves. We’re fighting back.
Rallies and town hall meetings have helped calm some of the fears while bringing our community together to share concerns and provide solace. Our KGAY DJ Galaxy led a small march last weekend — just one of many grassroots efforts to show our resistance. Supporters poured into Monster Shakes for a demonstration of love. The incidents noted have also gotten law enforcement involved.
A Log Cabin Republican KGAY listener wrote to me this week imploring us to “lessen the doom and gloom, “slit the wrist” attitude and celebrate the gifts of life, love and community”. He went on to say that Trump was once a democrat and even nominated a gay may for the cabinet, and is friends with members of our community. That’s not a high bar for the convicted felon.
In my response, which was read on KGAY this week, I wrote in part:
…Your vote emboldened hate in America. It set in motion death by a thousand cuts to our LGBTQ+ communities, veterans, Medicare recipients, public broadcasters, commercial broadcasters, public servants, immigrants and other marginalized peoples.
I would love to stay positive, but the empirical data indicates that there are many challenges ahead. We are not going to put our heads in the proverbial sand and pretend that it’s going to be okay — if we just give ‘him’ time.
P.S. Don’t forget about the corporate boycott today!
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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La Quinta Art Celebration
The La Quinta Art Celebration returns with a four-day event from Thursday–Sunday, February 27–March 2 at the La Quinta Civic Center. This award-winning fine art and crafts festival features 220 jury-selected premier artists from across the country and abroad, showcasing their work in various media categories, including painting, sculpture, glass, ceramics, jewelry, photography, fiber, wood, and mixed media. Attendees can enjoy live music daily, as well as exquisite food and beverages, all set against the stunning backdrop of La Quinta. More info
Luck Be A Lady Gala
The L-Fund Luck Be a Lady Gala is on Saturday, March 1 from 5–10 pm at The Riviera. This glamorous event supports the L-Fund’s mission to provide emergency financial assistance to cis, trans, and queer-identifying lesbians in crisis across the Coachella Valley. The evening promises an unforgettable experience with entertainment hosted by comedian Shann Carr, known for her 40-year career and community-building events. Enjoy performances by Marisa Corvo, a multi-talented vocalist and former contestant on American Idol and The Voice, plus tunes from DJ of the KGAY Sunday T-Dance, MODGIRL, celebrated for her euphoric presence and high-energy sets. Get tickets
An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell
New York’s Finest presents An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell on Friday, February 28 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The Tony Award-winning star of stage and screen, known for his iconic work in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, will be available for an artist meet and greet at 5:30 pm, followed by the show at 7 pm. Enjoy a hair-raising, hilarious romp of songs, stories, and characters, with performances by Mitchell and international cabaret star Amber Martin. The house band, led by Grammy Award-nominated music director Justin Craig, promises a magical, one-of-a-kind night with special guest surprises. Get tickets
Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival
Celebrate the beauty of nature at the Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival on Saturday, March 1 from 9 am–4 pm at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park. This free, family-friendly event, sponsored by Friends of the Desert Mountains, features enchanting wildflower displays, local artisans, information booths, kids’ activities, and a “Naturally Inspired” youth art contest. Enjoy live music, delicious food from local food trucks, and a beer and wine garden for adults. The festival promotes education, environmental stewardship, and an appreciation of the desert’s unique flora. More info
Desert Brewfest
Hey beer lovers! Join us at Luchador Brewing Company for the 2nd Annual Desert Brewfest on Saturday, March 1 from 12–4 pm. Enjoy unlimited tastings from multiple Southern California craft breweries and tasty tacos from Luchador. A portion of every ticket sold supports the Cathedral City & Palm Springs Fire Fighter Foundation. Save $10 on advance tickets with promo code “KGAY.” The event also features Lucha Libre matches, a dunk tank for firefighters, lawn games, axe throwing, and KGAY’s DJ Galaxy spinning the tunes. Get tickets
Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival Final Weekend
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival wraps up on Sunday, March 2, at the fairgrounds in Indio. This beloved festival, celebrating the end of the annual date harvest, draws over 250,000 guests each February. Now in its 77th year, the event focuses on community and delicious date-themed treats, with highlights including a dedicated date-tasting booth featuring ‘Date Flights’ and over forty unique date items from various food vendors. Be sure to try the unique offerings like date al pastor tacos, date-topped cinnamon rolls, and the crowd-favorite date beer-battered corn dogs! More info
Spending Blackout
On Friday, February 28, the Economic Blackout event calls for individuals to “turn it off” for one day to demonstrate who truly holds the power in the economy. Participants are encouraged not to make any purchases—online or in-store—from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, McDonald’s, or similar corporations. Instead, refrain from spending money on non-essential items such as fast food or gas. If you must buy essentials like food, medicine, or emergency supplies, aim to support small local businesses. Share the movement by talking about it and posting online to amplify the message. This collective action aims to disrupt the economy for just one day, sending a powerful statement. Learn more
This Weekend at the McCallum
Performing this weekend at the McCallum Theatre: Friday at 8 pm, The Tenors deliver powerful harmonies and a blend of classical, pop, and rock music. Saturday at 8 pm, Michael Feinstein celebrates the legacy of Tony Bennett with the Carnegie Hall Big Band. The weekend concludes on Sunday at 7 pm with Lyle Lovett, showcasing his unique blend of country, swing, jazz, and more. Get tickets
Karen Mason – Just in Styne: Karen Sings Jule
Celebrate an unforgettable evening with Karen Mason at the Purple Room on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1 as she performs her acclaimed show “Just in Styne: Karen Sings Jule”, honoring her favorite songwriter, Jule Styne. Enjoy Broadway classics like “Just in Time” and “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” along with pop standards such as “It’s Magic” and “Every Street’s a Boulevard in Old New York.” Karen will be accompanied by Christopher Denny on piano for this special tribute. Dinner at 6 pm, Show at 8 pm. Get tickets
Flagging in the Desert
Join the Flagging in the Desert event on Saturday, March 1, from 10:30 am–3:30 pm at Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs. Enjoy an exciting soundtrack by DJ Daniel Van Oldst while dancing, flagging, or simply watching the fun. The event kicks off with an instructional class at 10:30 am, followed by DJ music at 11:30 am. Although free to attend, donations are encouraged to support the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial, with matching grants tripling contributions. The day includes a silent auction of donated flags. More info
Mini Gay Day
It’s a day of fun and celebration at Mini Gay Day at Disneyland Resort on Saturday, March 1. This unofficial event is a springtime gathering for the LGBTQ+ community and allies, offering a chance to enjoy the magic of Disneyland while showing off your pride. Attendees are encouraged to wear red shirts to show their support and connect with fellow participants. More info
Jimmy Buffett Tribute at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, March 1 at 4 pm with Jimmy’s Buffet (Jimmy Buffet Tribute), benefiting Children’s Discovery Museum. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming: Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
THEATRE
Grand Concourse
Join Dezart Performs at the Pearl McManus Theater from February 28–March 9 for the profound and gripping play Grand Concourse, directed by Michael Shaw. This thought-provoking drama centers around Shelley, a dedicated nun running a Bronx soup kitchen with unsentimental efficiency. As Shelley grapples with feelings of futility, her world is upended by Emma, an idealistic yet troubled college dropout who volunteers at the kitchen. Emma’s reckless mix of generosity and self-involvement pushes Shelley to her breaking point, resulting in a poignant exploration of faith, purpose, and human connection. Get tickets
The Love Bite
Experience a delightful blend of satire and comedy with “The Love Bite: An Irreverent New Comedy by Luke Yankee on Sunday, March 2, from 11 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Theater. This enhanced stage reading begins with an awkward romantic encounter in a small Irish town, leading to a miraculous event when a resulting hickey bears a striking resemblance to Jesus Christ and has genuine healing powers. Adding to the excitement, the legendary Joyce Bulifant—best known for her role as Marie Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and appearances in Airplane!, The Happiest Millionaire, and numerous TV shows—will grace the stage for this special performance. Get tickets
The Odd Couple (Female Version)
Desert Theatreworks presents Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, reimagined to its female version, from February 14–March 2 at Blackbox Theater. Join Olive Madison and Florence Unger and their group of girlfriends for their weekly Trivial Pursuit night in Olive’s cluttered apartment. When freshly dumped Florence arrives, Olive invites her to move in, what could go wrong? Everything! Total opposites, Olive’s laid-back demeanor clashes with Florence’s neurotic cleanliness, putting their friendship to the test. Get tickets
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
My Fair Lady
Palm Canyon Theatre presents My Fair Lady through March 7. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, My Fair Lady is that rare musical by which all others are measured, featuring one of musical theatre’s greatest scores. This classic tale shows us Eliza Doolittle, a low-class, Cockney, flower girl, transformed into an elegant lady when Professor Henry Higgins decides to teach her how to speak like a proper, upper-class woman. During their lessons, an unlikely friendship begins to flourish. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, February 28
Palm Springs Walk of Stars: Susie Coelho | 3:30 pm at 145 S. Palm Canyon Dr.
Perez Art District 4th Fridays ARTWALK | 4 pm at Perez Road, Cathedral City
Bear Union | 8 pm at Club 541
Saturday, March 1
Country Dance Saturdays: Do Si Do Line Dance Lesson with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Murray Hill as Himself | 7:30 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Styx | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Sunday, March 2
First-Ever “Jazz Girls Day” in Idyllwild | Idyllwild Arts Campus
Palm Springs Vintage Market | 7 am– 2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
“Hollywood’s Biggest Night” Party | 3:30 pm at Trio
