Greater Palm Springs Pride has announced the recipients for this year’s Pride Honors awards, with a ceremony scheduled for later this month. The event will take place on September 24 at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Palm Springs, located at 400 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Six individuals and an organization were named Thursday as award recipients for their dedication, advocacy, and leadership, which has significantly impacted the LGBTQ+ community in the Coachella Valley.
Andre Chambers is set to receive the Spirit of Pride award. This honor is given to individuals who raise awareness to advance equality, promote diversity, and celebrate the strength and talent within the LGBTQ+ community, officials said. Chambers, known by some as the “Gay Glitter Mayor of Palm Springs,” is an author, artist, and advocate whose story was featured in the documentary “Merman.”
Andy Wysocki and Bill Sanderson will be honored with the Business of Pride award, which recognizes LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. They are being celebrated for their business, Townie Bagels.
The Desert Business Association will receive the Spirit of Stonewall Organization of the Year award. This award acknowledges a group with a proven commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community across the valley. Founded in 1979, the organization is one of the nation’s oldest LGBTQ+ chambers of commerce, advocating for small businesses through networking, educational programming, and contract readiness initiatives.
Kristie Dore will be presented with the Spirit of Stonewall Friend of Pride award, which honors allies who use their platforms to advocate for equality, elevate LGBTQ+ voices, and help build more inclusive communities. Dore serves as the director of event services at the Convention Center and is a board member for the LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert. She has been instrumental in creating welcoming and inclusive spaces by executing several regional events, including the Harvey Milk breakfast.
Leslie Barclay is slated to receive the Community Service award. As an LGBTQ specialist at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, Barclay has spearheaded support for grassroots initiatives, civil rights advocates, local health initiatives, and statewide equality organizations.
Randy Perrin will be recognized with the Spirit of Stonewall Volunteer of the Year award for his dedication to strengthening the community and his consistent commitment. Perrin, an advocate, began volunteering during the HIV/AIDS epidemic and has supported the Gay For Food Palm Springs organization. Officials said he also volunteers for environmental cleanups, school projects, and local nonprofits.
Tickets for the awards ceremony are available online.
