Archive for the ‘Events’ Category
Chamber Taps Gay Dad to Lead Parade

Pioneer Days Grand Marshal Jeff Hafler (left), his husband Mikal Winn, and their son Cash will be front and center in the parade which steps off at 10 a.m. from Bucklin Park going to City Hall via Highway 62 & Adobe Road.
TWENTYNINE PALMS – Basin gays were surprised and elated last month when Z107.7 revealed local entrepreneur Jeff Hafler would be one of two grand marshals in the Pioneer Days Parade Oct. 16. Hafler, who is openly gay, will share the spotlight with retired Marine Colonel M.J. ‘Mac’ Dube.
Sponsored by the 29 Palms Chamber of Commerce this year’s theme is Pioneers of the Future. Hafler, who is active in the Chamber, owns and operates the Beauty Bubble Salon & Museum and, with lawful husband Mikal Winn, operates their Moon Way Lodge B&B.
The Chamber selected Hafler as a Grand Marshal representing Pioneers of the Future. As such, he is to be among the parade leads with family riding beside him. It’s a giant leap forward for LGBT visibility in 29 Palms and an opportunity for local LGBTs and allies to support them by coming out to wave them on along the parade route. Supporters may also commend the Chamber for honoring Hafler by emailing 29chamber@29chamber.org.
Hafler and Winn moved from L.A. to Wonder Valley in 2002. Several of their extended family members, including Jeff’s brother Jamie, also relocated there. Billed as The Hafler Duo, Jeff and Jamie regularly entertain guests at The 29 Palms Inn with their folksy lyrics and acoustic guitars.
“There’s been a lot of magic in my life here in the desert,” said Jeff, who was unaware he was being considered for the honor. “This has made me look around and try to put things in perspective. It’s been humbling.”
Handsome, popular, talented and successful, the 38-year-old gay father and husband would seem a natural choice to be passed over for the honor considering the area’s conservative demographics. However, sexual orientation and family composition were not considered in the selection process. To its credit, the Chamber followed the same criteria they would for anyone in making the selection.
The result is that locals who line the parade route will have the good fortune to witness an honest representation of a proud local family who loves and supports the community. Folks here are lucky to have a Chamber that embraces such pioneering spirit.
Now, if we can just elect Jay Corbin to the 29 Palms City Council!
Universal Studios Day Trip
Gadabout Tour’s Nov 6, 2010 Universal Studios Day Trip
- Depart. Palm Springs 8am, return 6pm
- $99 includes: Transportation, Park Fee & Lunch
Sign up or request more information at:
800-952-5068 or 760-325-5556 or call David Tofanelli at 760-365-3350. He’s put this trip together and can tell you everything you need to know.
Mention Out & About with reservation.
Equality California Endorses Meagher and Wood
MORONGO BASIN – Equality California PAC, the state’s most powerful LGBT lobby, endorsed two candidates who may well be this area’s next representatives.
The action comes as a major boon for Pat Meagher who aims to beat Jerry Lewis for his seat in Washington. Meagher has been criss-crossing the district with his message on jobs, banking reform and equality. Lewis, who has held the office for 35 years, is rarely seen here.
Equally energized by the EQCA endorsement, Carl Wood’s campaign to replace Paul Cook in the state assembly continues to gain steam. In 2008 the Wood campaign got off to a late start and still defeated Cook in Riverside County.
This time his entire organization is focused on taking both counties, and polls suggest that is a very real possibility.
Meet Pat Meagher & Carl Wood
Saturday, Sept. 25 from 3 to Saturday, Sept. 25 from 3 to 5:PM when they return to when they return to Bruce’s Coyote Kitchen at CMC for a Candidates Forum.
Call 760-449-4048.
Honest Answers to Tough Questions
Tools for developing a more positive outlook on life & relationships.
Honest Answers to Tough Questions
Louis Gerhardt, Lecturer
WEDNESDAYS 10 – 11 AM
- Sept. 8 – Is There a God?
- Sept. 15 – Who Was Jesus?
- Sept. 22 – Are All Religions Equal?
- Sept. 29 – Am I My Brother’s Keeper?
- Oct. 6 – What is Prayer & Meditation?
- More Sessions Follow
Not a Bible study or discussion group. Each unit is self-contained. Come when you are able – No Charge.
St. Joseph of Arimathea
Episcopal Church
Onaga at Church Street
Yucca Valley 92284
For more info, call:
- Lou 800-995-1620 or 760-367-4627
- Joe or Jananne Turner 760-365-5695
Carl Wood Barbecue Fundraiser
You’re invited to another outstanding Carl Wood barbecue fundraiser barbecue fundraiser with master chef Anne Wood in charge.
Saturday, Sept. 11
4 to 7:pm
$25 per person
10103 Live Oak Ave, Cherry Valley, CA
RSVP to Betty McMillion
951-769-6636 or Msmac777@aol.com
Join a Carpool from Morongo Basin
call 760-449-4048
Make checks payable to:
Carl Wood for Assembly 2010
Paid for by Carl Wood for Assembly 2010, FPPC ID#1317574
Matinees for Gays: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Sunday, Sept. 19 – 2:30 Curtain – Theatre 29
The 25th Annual Putnam County SPELLING BEE
under the direction of Kathryn Ferguson
A hilarious Tony Award winning musical with a gay sub plot that makes it perfect for any queer family!
– says Hi Desert LGBT News
Reg. LGBTs $12 – Senior LGBTs $10
Lesbians, Gays, Transgenders & PFLAGS
Order tickets on your own or
to sit in the queer section, Contact Jim Babb
760-272-4361 jimbabb@pobox.com
Deadline is Sept.15 & based on availability.
Pat Meagher Speaks Out
Joshua Tree Town Hall Meeting
2:00 pm – Sunday – August 1
Bruce’s Coyote Kitchen at CMC
Follow signs from Hwy 62 & Rotary Way
Attention Dancers & Drag Divas!
Mega record producer and artist, Damion “Damizza” Young will film rock artist Michael Allan, at the Czarina’s Ball August 7 at the Palm Springs Riviera .
Damizza will film the out, equality artist, performing his new hit, “Let’s Dance!” Damizza and Allan welcome all Diva’s, RuPaul contestants, lesbian rockers and drag artists to attend the Ball and join the onstage dance action during the filming.
Damizza has produced stars like Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Korn, Dr. Dre and Mariah Carey, including Carey’s hit single “Cry Baby.” Diversity is the music video’s theme. This is a great opportunity to show your support!
Tickets to the Czarina’s Ball will be at the door before the Red Carpet & media entrance, or online at www.emeraldkingdom.com.
Gay Matinees Go Into the Rest Room. Won’t You Join Us?
MORONGO VALLEY—Matinees for Gays invites you to Groves Cabin Theatre’s production of, “In the Rest Room at Rosenblooms” Sunday, June 13 at 2:30pm.
Don’t miss this contemporary comedy about three old ladies who spark their lonely lives by meeting daily in the ladies lounge of a department store, and the crazy, touching events that occur the day one of them is supposedly threatened. The story may rightfully prove that the only bush a lady can trust is her own.
The cast of multiple Desert Theatre League award winners includes: Katherine Ferguson, Vicki Montgomery, Joy Groves and Sue Kelly, under the direction of Steve Fuji, with an assist from Charles Harvey.
Groves Cabin Theatre is at 8768 Desert Willow Trail in Morongo Valley (look for the red, white & blue boulder, north side of the highway).
Tickets are $10 which will be collected at the door, but reservations must be made in advance. Lesbians, gay guys, friends & allies, act now to avoid missing out on the most fun you can have for $10. Contact Jim Babb at jimbabb@pobox.com or 760-272-4361 to reserve your seats now.
Reservations deadline is June 6.
Get Your Checkbooks Ladies and Gentlemen…These Queens Mean Business!
EMERALD KINGDOM, PALM SPRINGS – On August 7th, Palm Springs is to be the site of a super-event that will set a new benchmark for entertainment, philanthropy, pomp and circumstance. Rarely do professionals from the performing arts and the film industry collaborate with activists, politicians and military spokespeople to produce a special event aimed at lifting up our youth while creating public awareness of the extraordinary contributions these youth are making.
The Czarina’s Ball will benefit The Harvey Milk Foundation’s Youth Program. The Ball will be held at the Riviera Hotel Ballroom in the style of a Russian Court. Pulling this together is the iconic personae, Elizabeth Loren Maria Romanov, the newly appointed Czarina of Riverside & Imperial Counties within the Imperial Court System.
It is one of the oldest gay activist organizations in the world—its origins dating back to Stonewall. It was created by Jose, aka The Widow Norton, more than 45 years ago.
Among the stars will be Erin Foley, the out lesbian Comedian, Dancer and impressionist Dolly Levi, rocker Michael Allen, and San Francisco’s current Wonder Woman (and man) Max Amillion. The extravaganza boasts an all star review; a Russian Summer Buffet created by Chef Bradley Manchester, and will feature the crowning and coronation of The Czarina by The Queen Mother, Nicole the Great and the investiture, of the New Imperial, Court of Riverside and Imperial Counties. The Czarina will confer The Life Time Achievement Award to a local businessman and give The Entertainer of The Year award.
For ticket info, sponsorships or group tables, go to: http://www.emeraldkingdom.org/home.
Saturday, Aug. 7
Riviera Ballroom
Doors Open: 6 pm
Joshua Tree Gay Pride is Saturday, June 26.
It all begins with the summer Joshua Tree Gallery Crawl that includes:
- The Red Arrow Gallery
- True World Gallery
- JTAG
- Woods In the Desert Art Gallery
- Mr. Fuji
All around town special happenings and offerings fill the day and evening at galleries, shops, eateries, and venues.
At the Art Queen complex starting at 6 PM, 61855 29 Palms Highway, and home of the Fred Drake stage will have entertainment, equality speakers Carl Wood and Pat Heagher, booths in a fair-like atmosphere with performances by Quinn & Hood, Shari Elf & the Kittens, My Bear Hands, Santina Giordano, and Rabbit & Rutherford (of Gram Rabbit).
DJ Lime Sparkle spins his brand of sophisticated house music, samba, and space disco to the delight of the guests throughout the evening, under the stars and full moon. The art and celebration continue at the newest art event, Sangrila, featuring multimedia indoor and outdoor installations by 21 artists. Camping is encouraged. Local retreat logding is another ticket to enjoy the weekend.
Exhibition space has been set aside for community organizations wanting to participate in the outdoor celebration at the Art Queen. Volunteers are being recruited to assist with set up, hospitality, information, security, and clean up.
To participate, or for more information, call 760-449-4048 or email: hidesertlgbtnews@aol.com.
Support JT Gay Pride
Morongo Basin Courage Team
2010 Joshua Tree Gay Pride
“In the Name of Equality”
Donate $10 or more and receive thank you gifts:
- 5.5″x8.5″ Zono art lithograph
- 4″x4″ Totally Gay vinyl sticker
- 2010 supporter pledge name tag
Donate $50 for booth space (limited).
Donate $100 to become event sponsor (will appear on street poster June 10, on entertainment schedule, and in guide).
Contact pride@email.com or call Mike at 760-449-4048.
Integratron Sound Bath
California Men’s Gathering invites you to a men’s-only Integratron Sound Bath.
Saturday April 10th
- 2:30 pm SHARP (Arrival & Check-In)
- 3 pm (Sound Bath Session)
- 6 pm (Optional Drumming Circle)
Location: The Integratron 2477 Belfield Blvd., Landers, CA 92285. Phone: 760-364-3126.
For directions click here.
To RSVP or get more info, contact Mohabee at 760-364-2069 or mohabee@gmail.com.
Sound Bath is $20 per person. payable in cash only day of event. Participants are invited to a post Sound Bath Campfire Drum Circle at Starland Community weather permitting. Suggested donation for campfire is $10.
RSVP to mohabee@gmail.com.
The Integratron is an extraordinary dome designed as a rejuvenation and time machine. It is the only all-wood, acoustically perfect sound chamber in the U.S. Visit www.integratron.com to learn more.
The Sound Bath is a 30 minute sonic healing session you’ll experience while resting comfortably in the Integratron’s multi-wave sound chamber. Nine quartz crystal singing bowls, each keyed to the energy centers or chakras of the body, are played live. Here, sound is “nutrition” for the nervous system. You’ll lie on a comfy mat in the resonant high-energy field, while your body is bathed in exquisite sound. The result is peaceful waves, heightened awareness and relaxation of mind and body.
HDE General Membership Meeting
Noon, Sunday, April 11th at One of Life’s Perks Cafe (On Outer Hwy. 18 across from St. Mary’s Hospital in Apple Valley). One hour meeting followed by mingling and fellowship.
This is our first time to meet at One of Life’s Perks, one of our most avid supporters!
Come join us to meet new faces, socialize with our regulars, and share your ideas!
More details on our web site …. click here.
- HIGH DESERT EQUALITY
Gay Matinees Return February 21st…
…with …
From Vienna to Broadway
Under the Direction of Morongo Basin’s own Wendell Raymond Phillips.
Beautiful songs & beautiful music by great composers with singers from the Golden West Opera Theatre
Blak Box Theatre at the Hi-Desert Cultural Center
61231 Hwy 62 in Joshua Tree.
Tickets are $12 & $14
Call the Box Office at 760-366-3777
Transgenders Meet at United Church of Christ
If you’re transsexual or questioning, this meeting may be a good place to begin your search. TG Soul meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. It’s your chance to meet other Inland Empire TG, socialize, ask questions & learn. For a better understanding of what you may be, go to http://www.transgendered-soul.com and click on “What am I?” on the navigation bar, or e-mail: tgsint@onekate.com.
Saturday, Dec. 12, 4 to 8 PM
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST — MEETING ROOM
3041 N. Sierra Way
San Bernardino CA 92405
Need a Little Christmas? Get Seats Now
PALM SPRINGS — The Desert Winds Freedom Band will present “We Need A Little Christmas”. We couldn’t agree more.
The all volunteer group of gay musicians and allies assemble at 2 PM on Sunday, Dec. 13 at Palm Springs Art Museum Annenberg Theater.
Subscriber Steve Rocha will be on Bass Clarinet. The program of holiday music includes classic works and surprising and non-traditional choices like “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” and “Nightmare Before Christmas”.
Tickets are $20 & $30. Order at 760-325-4490 or www.psmuseum.org.






