#NationalRadioDay blew up on social media this year. Thursday’s annual event was celebrated on the airwaves across America as well as locally.
Those of us who have been on the air each have a unique story about how the radio bug “bit them”. Reading Facebook posts and comments from my friends who I share this vocation with has been a great trip down memory lane.
Palm Springs was a robust radio market where Eric Ornelas cut his teeth doing a mix show after school. Valerie Kattz, now with Animal Samaritans, showed dozens of photos from her days at various frequencies around the local radio dial – including 103.1 when it was “EZ”. Patrick Evans got his start in radio before the weather bug bit him. John Taylor started on the east coast.
Chris Shebel, our program director, posted a fun “Flintstones” AI-generated image broadcasting “Live from CAVE 17”. It seems like that long ago since we met.
Chris and I first crossed paths in a college town with a couple of legendary radio stations: WSPT and WXYQ in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. In radio it was all about upward mobility — you likely started in your hometown, then graduated to larger markets until you (hopefully) hit the jackpot working in a top 10 market like Los Angeles or Chicago. Many times a job lasted only a year. U-Haul was your constant companion.
Chris had catapulted over many of his peers going from Stevens Point to Columbus, Ohio. But then, WLS in Chicago discovered him and Chris was on his way to the big time. His first day on the air, we took a portable AM radio outside our studios. It was winter and snow was falling as we tuned in WLS to hear Chris on the air for the first time. We were so proud, a little envious and hoping that his good fortune would rub off!
Chis came back to Stevens Point for gatherings and that’s where we got to know each other. Except, we didn’t know each other’s secret: We were both closeted gay men in an industry where being out meant losing your career. That’s where I’ll leave this story for today, but there’s much more to share about how Chris singlehandedly helped bring radio “out of the closet.”
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Tramway Getaway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an unbeatable way to escape the valley’s intense heat this weekend, with refreshing mountain temperatures hovering around 70 degrees at the Mountain Station. Enjoy the world’s largest rotating tram car as it glides over the cliffs of Chino Canyon, delivering spectacular views on the ten‑minute ascent to 8,516 feet. Once at the top, visitors can explore restaurants, observation decks, a natural history museum, documentary theaters, a gift shop, and miles of hiking trails. It’s also an ideal time to visit before the Tramway’s annual preventative maintenance closure begins on Tuesday, September 8, expected to last about a month. August features First Responders Days, offering free admission and a special gift for qualified first responders, plus 25% off regular fares for up to four guests. More info
Lulu Celebrates 15 Years
Lulu California Bistro marks a major milestone this August as it celebrates 15 years at the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Since opening on August 22, 2011, Lulu has become a community anchor — welcoming more than 4 million guests, supporting hundreds of local hospitality professionals, and shaping the city’s dining and social scene with its colorful, inclusive spirit. Guests can also enjoy a sweet treat during the “birthday” weekend: free cotton candy with any meal from August 21–23. Founded by Jerry and the late Barbara Keller, Lulu’s legacy is rooted in bold vision, philanthropy, and unwavering love for Palm Springs. More info
Out On The Mountain 2026
Experience thrilling rides and spectacular drag performances at Out On The Mountain 2026 on Friday, August 21 from 6 pm–12 am at Six Flags Magic Mountain. This private, all-ages party brings together over 5,000 members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Enjoy performances by April Carrión and Jessica Wild while supporting Southern California LGBTQ organizations. The park is closed to the general public during event hours, and regular season passes are not accepted. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, with VIP options available. More info
Silent Disco – Battle of the DJs
Dance to your own beat at the Silent Disco – Battle of the DJs on Friday, August 21 at 9 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. This exciting night of dancing allows you to switch between DJ Lady Pink and a Surprise DJ with the flip of a switch on your wireless headphones. Grab your headphones, hit the dance floor, and enjoy a unique evening of music under the stars. More info
The Desert Modernist: An Art Showcase
Celebrate local artistic talent at The Desert Modernist: An Art Showcase on Friday, August 21 from 4–7 pm at Senior Helpers. This generational exhibition brings together Coachella Valley artists, blending iconic Mid-Century Modern aesthetics with bold contemporary acrylics and sweeping desert landscapes. You can enjoy stunning artwork, light refreshments, and community spirit while supporting local guest artists such as Ray Clearwater, A Todd Jones, Ron Slack, and Juan Jose Espinosa. The exhibition is completely free and open to all. More info
Pet Star 2027 Photo Contest
Furry, feathered, and scaly companions across the Coachella Valley can shine in the spotlight during the annual Pet Star 2027 Photo Contest running now through September 30. This fundraiser by Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies invites pet owners to submit photos for a $25 fee in five categories to support Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Desert Wildlife Center, and Desert Community Animal Center. Entrants can submit multiple pets and rally votes for $1 each, with a five-vote minimum. The top vote-getter becomes the 2027 Pet Star Champion on the calendar cover, while other top-ranking pets are featured inside. Supporters can preorder calendars or reserve special dates for $20. More info
The Wizard of Oz
Experience the classic story The Wizard of Oz at Palm Springs Plaza Theatre with a special screening on Friday, August 22 at 7 pm. The Friday screening features an exclusive introduction and audience Q&A with special guest Vanessa O’Neil, granddaughter of Judy Garland and daughter of Lorna Luft and Jake Hooker. More info
Queer Eyes Cinema Club
The Queer Eyes Cinema Club screens its August pick, Diamantino (2018), on Saturday, August 22 from 4–6:30 pm at Festival Theaters. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this monthly meetup brings LGBTQ+ films to the big screen, offering intersectional stories across race, ethnicity, and culture. After the movie, attendees can hang back for an open discussion and share reflections. The series is led by film analyst and scholar Esther Schwartz. More info
Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo
The legendary rock duo Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo will bring their iconic sound to the stage of The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, August 22 at 8 pm. This Rock & Roll Hall of Fame partnership has shaped the landscape of music for decades, producing timeless hits such as “Love Is A Battlefield” and “Heartbreaker.” With four consecutive Grammy Awards and over 36 million records sold worldwide, their staggering vocals and trailblazing guitar artistry continue to captivate audiences. More info
Coachella Valley Classical Voices
Enjoy an afternoon of inspiring opera and Broadway selections as the Coachella Valley Classical Voices group performs on Sunday, August 23 from 3–4:30 pm at Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. Under the artistic direction of Doug Nagel, this talented lineup of local singers will present beautiful musical selections by renowned composers like Puccini, Verdi, Sondheim, and Schwartz. It is a fantastic opportunity to experience local classical music and vocal talent live on stage. More info
Nominations Round Open: Best of Coachella Valley
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2026–2027 nomination round is officially open, and now’s the moment to spotlight the local voices, stations, and personalities you love most. This early round determines who advances to the final ballot, so every nomination truly counts. Our contenders this year include KGAY 103.1, Sunny 106.5, and MeTV FM 92.1 for Best Radio Station; John Taylor, E.J. Tyler, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Best Local Radio Personality; and our powerhouse DJ trio — DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and MODGIRL — for Best Local DJ. Nominations are open through Friday, August 28, so cast your picks and lift your favorites into the spotlight! Nominate Today
- A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit • Palm Springs Art Museum hosts an intergenerational group of artists exploring how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge shaped queer culture, open Thursday–Sunday and the show runs through October 18.
- George Perez Comedy Show! • Comedian George Perez will deliver a night of real stories, big laughs, and nonstop energy at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs on Friday at 7 pm.
- Victor Vasquez Comedy Show • Stand-up favorite Victor Vasquez will deliver nonstop laughs with his quick wit and sharp storytelling at Spotlight 29 Casino on Friday from 8–9:30 pm.
- Lee Hyun Woo • Audiences will experience a spectacular performance as South Korean singer Lee Hyun Woo takes the stage at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday from 8–11 pm.
- Welcoming Yoga • Participants of all experience levels will experience a safe, slow basic practice led by facilitator Marci Stonehedge at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert on Saturday from 4–5:15 pm.
- Night Swim • Partygoers will experience the ultimate after-hours pool party featuring live DJs, cocktails at the Island Bar, and access to the iconic Island Pool and Lazy River under the lights at The Palm Springs Surf Club on Saturday from 6–10 pm.
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays • Dancers of all levels are welcome to enjoy country western dancing, including two-step, waltz, and line dances. This week features a “Choosin Texas” line dance lesson with Andrew Jimenez. Located at Step by Step Dance Studio on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm.
- A Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd • Southern rock fans will experience the raw energy and triple-guitar attack of classics like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird” by tribute band Skynyrd & Frynds at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City on Saturday from 8–11 pm.
- The Rack Pack: Weekly Men’s (Chinese) Mahjong Meet-Up • Men of all experience levels enjoy a relaxed afternoon of friendly Chinese Mahjong, good company, and great vibes with The Rack Pack. This weekly group meets at ACE Hotel & Swim Club on Sunday from 4–6 pm.
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SAY KGAY to Save on Rivalry Merch
Ride the Heated Rivalry wave with a fresh batch of themed T‑shirts now available through the Pride Store. Some designs rep your favorite fictional teams from the show, while others turn up the temperature with bolder, more provocative takes. Pick your style, show your fandom, and save 10% storewide at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY – Shop Now
Summer 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out the Summer 2026 edition of the K‑Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! 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, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, as well as at hotels, visitor centers, and participating sponsors, or view it online.
Click below to sign up for our Gay Desert Guide Oasis Insiders Newsletter to get our Weekly Blog, Top 3 Events for the weekend, Hot Deals and Cool Events all delivered to your inbox every Friday!
LOOKING AHEAD
MON: DBA Networking Mixer
Expand your professional circle and mingle at the DBA Networking Mixer at Renaissance Palm Springs on Monday, August 24 from 5:30–7 pm. This modern venue offers stylish accommodations and a spacious pool right in the heart of the city. Attendees are encouraged to bring a raffle item to get a special shoutout, with raffle proceeds supporting Safe Schools Desert Cities LGBTQ+ Youth Education Scholarships. As an added perk, the hosts will collect and scan business cards from everyone in attendance, providing DBA members with a digital contact sheet after the event to make follow-up easy. More info
- Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 21 from 6 pm–Midnight at Six Flags Magic Mountain - Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - Chicago & Styx: The Windy Cities Tour
Wed. Sep 2 at 7 pm - Summer Moon Dance Party
Fri. Aug 28 from 7–10 pm at the Palm Springs Art Museum - Pool Party for a Cause: Tiki Night
Fri. Aug 28 from 7–10 pm at Palm Springs Surf Club - Superfuzz Saturday Nights at CCBC
August 29 from 8 pm–Midnight - Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Sep 1–30 at participating Coachella Valley spas - Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival / 2026 Blues at the Woodstock
Sep 4–5 at Hotel Zoso - KGAY Big SPLASH Pool Party | Support Your Station
Fri. Sep 11 from 7–10 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club - Palm Springs Gay Softball League (PSGSL) New Player Clinics
Sat. & Sun. Sep 12 & 13 at 9 am at Demuth Park - Gay Days Anaheim 2026
Sep 18–20 at Disneyland Resort - CVRep 2026–27 Season – Tickets on Sale Now
October 2026–March 2027
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their nonstop throwback mixes. On Sundays, we put all five hours together for the Retro Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY Sunday Tea Dance with MODGIRL airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). All our DJs took honors in the Best of Coachella Valley this year! Listen to KGAY 103.1 online
This Weekend: Hunters Nightclub turns up the summer heat with DJ Galaxy returning to take over Fur Friday this Friday, August 21 from 4–9 pm with his signature sound and crowd‑moving style.
KGAY 103.1 is giving you the chance to score VIP GOLD passes to Gay Days Anaheim, September 18–20, 2026 — the ultimate way to experience the weekend’s biggest entertainment. Enjoy the Kingdom dance party with DJ Paulo Ramirez, Alyssa Edwards’ “Once Upon a Tongue Pop”, your choice of Y2J or Diva Worship, two meet‑and‑greets, comedy from Zach Noe Towers, Drag Queen Bingo with Kay Sedia, the VIP cocktail party, and a loaded VIP gift bag. Enter to WIN on the KGAY 103.1 Contest Page
WIN TICKETS to see John Summit live in Los Angeles from KGAY 103.1! Dance‑music phenom John Summit is bringing his massive CTRL ESCAPE arena tour to LA on December 12, delivering his biggest, boldest production yet. Expect a high‑impact, immersive experience as Summit transforms his boundary‑pushing album into a full‑scale arena spectacle — complete with next‑level staging, explosive energy, and the larger‑than‑life atmosphere fans crave. Enter to WIN on the KGAY 103.1 Contest Page
Sunny 106.5 FM
Take the sunshine indoors with the Sunny 106.5 Alexa skill — just tell Alexa to “enable Sunny Palm Springs Radio skill” and the brightest variety will be one voice command away at home or at work. Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, blending familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. Play Sunny 106.5 Online
Join the Sunny 106.5 Lucky Duck Club and unlock year‑round access to secret contests, special offers, and fun surprises just for members. It’s free, fast, and packed with perks for Sunny listeners — including first access to exciting station events. If you’re already a Lucky Duck, you’re automatically entered to WIN a pair of tickets to Jonas Brothers – The Burning Up Tour All Over Again on November 17 at Acrisure Arena! Sign up NOW to WIN!
MeTV 92.1 FM
MeTV FM is officially back on the Coachella Valley dial — and there’s never been a better time to tune in. Broadcasting from Palm Springs, 92.1 MeTV FM delivers a “radio gold mine” of timeless, memorable music you won’t hear anywhere else: over 3,500 songs, more than 350 played every day with no repeats. From deep tracks to softer favorites spanning the ’50s through the ’80s, plus themed shows and beloved classics, this one‑of‑a‑kind format is ready to soundtrack your day.
- Madonna Scores 11 MTV VMA Nominations in 2026
- Da Brat Headlining The Dinah Signals a New Era for Queer Women’s Festival Culture
- Idyllwild Mountain Escape: A Historic Cool‑Weather Retreat for Desert Travelers
- Cinema Diverse Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival Tickets Now On Sale
- FAQs – Shopping in Palm Springs: LGBTQ+ Shops, Boutiques, Vintage & Local Finds
Find out what’s happening on any given day by browsing our Gay Desert Guide Online Event Listing Calendar, and for the big picture, take a look at major upcoming events in our 2026-27 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” John Taylor is on mornings 6–10 am and program director Chris Shebel is on afternoons. Our Retro Lunch with DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas is heard on Sundays as the Retro Lunch & Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm, followed by MODGIRL spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.
This Way Out, the award‑winning weekly LGBTQ radio program, airs every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on KGAY 103.1 and is also available on‑demand via our streaming player under Menu>Streams>Podcasts. As the only internationally distributed LGBTQ radio show, it airs on about 200 community stations worldwide and delivers global queer news, reporting, interviews, and cultural features.
