This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. shines a spotlight on a powerful community effort dedicated to fighting hunger and homelessness in the Coachella Valley as she speaks with Well In The Desert Board Member Eric Frankson. The conversation explores a newly reimagined annual benefit concert designed to raise funds and awareness for an organization that provides thousands of free meals each year. Listeners learn how the event blends live entertainment, celebrity impersonators, and a more intimate concert setting with a mission-driven purpose. Beyond the gala, the discussion highlights year-round outreach efforts, including a unique bicycle program that provides dependable transportation to unhoused individuals seeking medical care, employment, or essential services. The episode emphasizes dignity, respect, and practical solutions that change lives every day. From feeding over 81,000 meals annually to helping people rebuild stability, this conversation captures how community support, creativity, and compassion come together to create meaningful impact—while inviting listeners to be part of the solution.

Takeaways:

1. A longtime local fundraiser has been rebranded with a renewed mission focus
2. The benefit concert features top local performers and celebrity impersonators
3. Funds raised directly support free meals and outreach programs
4. Over 81,000 warm meals were served in the past year alone
5. The organization offers more than food, including clothing and medical referrals
6. A bicycle program provides transportation for jobs, parole, and medical needs
7. Nearly 300 donated bikes have been refurbished and distributed
8. Respect and dignity are central to every service offered

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #EricFrankson #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #WellInTheDesert #CommunitySupport #EndHunger #HomelessOutreach #BenefitConcert #NonprofitLife #PalmSpringsEvents #GivingBack #LocalImpact #CharityGala #SocialGood #CommunityCare #DesertLife #SupportLocal

In this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Michael Shaw, Artistic Director of Dezart Performs, to discuss the exciting transformation of a 1957 historic church into the new Dezart Playhouse performance space in Palm Springs. Michael shares how the organization purchased the structure, carefully renovated it while preserving its architectural significance, and successfully opened with a three-night West Side Story in Concert gala featuring a full orchestra and choir. He walks through the challenges, milestones, and community support that fueled the project, as well as what’s still ahead in Phase Two — including a box office, full bar, studio upgrades, and accessible restrooms. Michael also previews Dezart Performs’ upcoming season with Eureka Day, Destroying David, and Love! Valor! Compassion!, plus future plans to host cabaret, opera, and more community arts programming. An uplifting conversation on creativity, collaboration, and the evolution of theater in the Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

• Dezart Performs purchased and renovated a 1957 church into a theater.
• West Side Story in Concert launched the new venue with great success.
• The building is historically significant and required sensitive preservation.
• Phase Two upgrades include a bar, box office, and ADA-compliant restrooms.
• New programming aims to expand into cabaret, opera, and community projects.
• Upcoming plays include Eureka Day, Destroying David, and Love! Valor! Compassion!
• The space also offers rehearsal rooms and community access.
• Collaboration and support made the renovation journey smooth and timely.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #MichaelShaw #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #DezartPerforms #PalmSpringsTheatre #DesertArts #HistoricPreservation #WestSideStory #EurekaDay #DestroyingDavid #LoveValorCompassion #CommunityTheatre #PerformingArts #PalmSpringsEvents #NewTheaterSpace #ArtsInTheDesert #CreativePalmSprings

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, listeners are treated to an engaging journey through the remarkable career of Joe Croyle, a veteran jazz vocalist and pianist whose life has been shaped by music, hard work, and unforgettable opportunities. Beginning in Pittsburgh, he reflects on early breakthroughs with nationally recognized musical groups, years performing on legendary stages, and collaborations with iconic entertainers. His stories include time with celebrated acts, surprising turns into dance, and work with Motown. He also shares how a move to the desert opened new musical connections and community, leading to steady performances and creative inspiration. With insights into his stylistic evolution, favorite repertoire, current shows, and personal philosophy for young performers, the conversation paints a vivid portrait of a seasoned artist who has embraced every chapter with passion and resilience. This warm, lively interview offers music lovers a behind-the-scenes look at a life devoted to performing.

Takeaways:

• Early professional experience included global touring and television appearances.
• Performed with major entertainers across Vegas and international venues.
• Contributed background vocals for Motown artists thanks to his high, rich tone.
• Spent decades performing with a historic five-part harmony group.
• Relocated to the desert for quality of life and community connection.
• Built a strong local presence through collaborations with top jazz musicians.
• Honors Mel Tormé’s legacy with a tribute album defining his current style.
• Believes aspiring musicians succeed by showing up, working hard, and learning from great players.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #DougGraham #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #JazzLife #LiveJazz #PalmSpringsMusic #JazzPianist #JazzSinger #MusicHistory #VegasEntertainment #ClassicJazz #SwingStandards #MusicianLife #DesertMusicScene #PianoBarStories #JazzCommunity #PerformanceLife