Five women sat at the front of a sweltering room at the LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert this week. But enduring the heat was a small price to pay for the recognition they rightfully deserved and received.
The L-Fund officially became part of The Center on July 1, and the community came together to honor them. The L-Fund was founded in March 2012 by six women: Barbara Carpenter, Ruth Debra, Sharon Siegel, Kate Ullman, Betty Berrysmith and the late Bobreta Franklin. They threw $20 each in a basket to help a fellow lesbian in need.
From that seed of giving came an organization who has its eyes set on a national footprint. And why not? Lesbians and other non-binary women in need have not benefited from the glam and glitter of fundraisers for causes for their male counterparts.
That’s partially due to the AIDS crisis which demanded a strong grassroots effort to bring awareness and raise money. But remember, the lesbians were there to help their gay brothers through that period — and many without proper acknowledgement.
John Taylor and I had the opportunity to interview Dr. Karyl Ketchum, it’s new executive director embedded at The Center. You can see the interview HERE. It’s nice to report on a bit of GOOD news and this certainly was a big step forward in the evolution of a grassroots organization.
Over my nearly 14 years operating Gay Desert Guide and now KGAY, I’ve watched the ebb and flow of businesses, non-profits and even individuals who came here to make their mark. This has been a success story that makes our community proud and helps cement our place in the LGBTQ+ history books as a truly inclusive place to live and thrive.
P.S. Happy Birthday to our Vincent Corrales, aka DJ Galaxy!
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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San Diego Pride Festival 2026
The San Diego Pride Festival takes over Marston Point in Balboa Park on Saturday, July 18, with festival hours from 12–11 pm. The day begins with the iconic Pride Parade at 10 am, drawing more than 250,000 supporters as it travels from University and Richmond Avenues down Sixth Avenue to the festival grounds. With four stages, major headliners, and a full day of music and community celebration, the festival highlights the region’s commitment to LGBTQIA+ arts, culture, and advocacy. Every ticket supports year‑round programs and initiatives. More info
The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Benefiting The Center
The Rocky Horror Picture Show, benefiting The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, screens at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Friday, July 17 at 7:30 pm. This special event includes a pre‑show Time Warp dance lesson with drag entertainer Marina Mac, plus interactive elements for VIP guests. The evening blends cult‑classic fun with community impact with a lively, participatory atmosphere perfect for longtime devotees and first‑time viewers alike. More info
Gay Wine Weekend 2026 — 15th Anniversary Celebration
Gay Wine Weekend 2026 unfolds in Sonoma Valley from Friday–Sunday, July 17–19, offering three days of world‑class wine, culinary experiences, and signature celebrations. Highlights include winemaker dinners, winery tours, after‑parties, the Twilight T‑Dance, and the Drag Queen Brunch & Wine Auction. A special concert with Mary Lambert takes place on Sunday, July 19 at 5:30 pm. With events centered around The Lodge at Sonoma, the weekend blends luxury, community, and unforgettable festivities in one of the world’s premier wine destinations. More info
The Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz at Palm Canyon Theatre runs July 17–26, inviting audiences to follow the yellow brick road into a world of magic, adventure, and timeless songs. This cherished musical brings Dorothy and her unforgettable companions to the stage in a story filled with heart, imagination, and classic moments like “Over the Rainbow.” Perfect for dreamers of all ages. More info
Footloose
Footloose is an explosive summer stock production running at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Friday, July 17 at 7 pm. Presented by David Green’s Musical Theatre University and the Palm Springs Unified School District, the show showcases twenty‑six of the Inland Empire’s most talented young performers. This high‑energy adaptation of the iconic film follows Ren McCormack as he challenges a small town’s ban on dancing, featuring hit songs like “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” and “Holding Out for a Hero.” More info
A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit
A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit at the Palm Springs Art Museum is open Thursday–Sunday, offering visitors a full day to explore this expansive exhibition. The show brings together artists whose work engages magic, spirituality, and esoteric traditions as pathways to queer expression and liberation. Through diverse practices—from Western occultism to Indigenous shamanic traditions—the exhibition highlights how mystical knowledge has shaped queer culture across generations. Operating hours this weekend are 10 am–5 pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
- Making Porn • This outrageous comedy from Prism Theater explores the chaotic world of a low-budget adult film shoot. The production features eccentric performers and backstage disasters, with performances Thursday–Saturday through August 2. This rated R show contains adult language, sexual content, and full frontal nudity.
- Luz Pazos Comedy Show • Comedian Luz Pazos delivers a night of unfiltered, bold humor characterized by sharp wit and magnetic stage presence. She connects with the audience through cultural observations and dating chaos at Spotlight 29 Casino on Friday from 8–9:30 pm.
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays • Rob Ollander-Krane leads a beginner shadow lesson followed by an evening of country western dancing, including two-step and line dances. This LGBTQ+ friendly gathering takes place at Step by Step Dance Studio on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm. Country dance enthusiasts of all levels are welcome to attend.
- Wanderlust Food Truck Festival at Sunrise Park • This community gathering features a curated lineup of over 20 food trucks and local vendors. Guests can enjoy gourmet street food, family-friendly lawn games, and open seating at Sunrise Park on Saturday from 5–10 pm.
- The Book of Merman • Prism Theater presents a new musical comedy that brings together missionaries and a legendary Broadway diva for a humorous revelation. The show runs Saturdays & Sundays through July 26.
- From Struggle to Strength • “Increase Love in Action” is the featured topic for this meditation class led by the Dharmachakra Kadampa Buddhist Center on Sunday from 10–11:30 am. Participants will learn transformative meditations to respond to life’s challenges with patience, love, and clarity.
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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.
Ask a Gay Doc Episode 37: Viewer Questions & Kind Warrior Project
Dr. Renzo Corzano answers viewer questions sent to ASK A GAY DOC at LGBTQHealth@MyDOHC.com on subjects ranging from penile curvature, to which screenings for sexual health are currently recommended. KGAY’s John Taylor and Dr. Corzano are joined by the Kind Warrior Project founder Glenn Motowidlak to discuss the mental health benefits of coming together in community.
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!
- The Wizard of Oz – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
July 17–26 - Gay Wine Weekend – 15th Anniversary Celebration
July 17–19 in Sonoma Valley - Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - Summer Cabaret Series at CVRep
Tue. & Thu. July 7–30 - Gay Men’s Social
Wed. July 22 from 5:30–7 pm at V Wine Lounge - Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage
July 23–Aug 16 at restaurants throughout Rancho Mirage - The Marvelous Miss Gender featuring Bosco
Tue. July 28 at 8 pm at The Plaza Theatre - Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
July 31–Aug 2 at Acrisure Arena - Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 21 from 6 pm–midnight at Six Flags Magic Mountain
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: Celebrate DJ Galaxy‘s Birthday as he spins at Fur Fridays at Hunters Nightclub on Friday, July 17 from 4–9 pm. Meanwhile, MODGIRL kicks off the festivities on Friday at 7 pm for Women in the Mix at Lola Rose Grand Mezze. Then she heads to San Diego for Pride weekend, starting Saturday at 1 pm for the Colossal Pool Party at DoubleTree Mission Valley, and continues with Love Summer at Inside Out on Saturday at 6 pm. To wrap up an epic weekend, join her on Sunday at 1 pm for the Dragalicious Pool Party back at the DoubleTree.
Next Week: Get ready for a sun‑soaked week of beats and beach vibes as DJ Galaxy takes Retro Lunch on the road! Broadcasting live at 12 pm PDT from Mexico’s most iconic coastal cities, Galaxy brings a retro Latin twist to his signature dance mix while celebrating his annual birthday cruise. Tune in to KGAY 103.1 FM or stream at KGAYPalmSprings.com for themed shows from Puerto Vallarta (Mon Jul 20), Mazatlán (Wed Jul 22), and Cabo San Lucas (Fri Jul 24) — each packed with peace, pride, and love from paradise.
WIN TICKETS to Out on the Mountain
KGAY 103.1 wants to give you the chance to experience Out on the Mountain — the Ultimate Pride Party at Six Flags Magic Mountain on Friday, August 21. This private, all‑ages LGBTQ+ celebration packs the park with thrill rides, drag performances, dance parties, and a full night of community joy. It’s Pride… with roller coasters! Enter to WIN on the KGAY 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
- 9 Must‑See Art Galleries to Visit This Summer in Greater Palm Springs
- Weirdest Roadside Attractions to Explore in the California Desert
- Best Places to Stargaze in the California Desert This Summer
- The L-Fund Expands Its Mission with New Chapter at The Center Palm Springs
- 6 Chic Wine Bars to Explore Across the Coachella Valley
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 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.
