This year, our housemates joined forces to fully embrace the DreamScape theme. Eric and I channeled our inner Salvador Dalí—surreal, whimsical, and delightfully offbeat—while others shimmered like golden cuirassiers, their sculpted armor and masks gleaming under the moonlight as we made our way toward the main event. With each step, their presence cast an eerie, enchanted glow across the sand, forming a luminous pathway that guided us to the party entrance. It felt as though we were walking on a carpet of light—thanks to James and Chris for illuminating the night. 

Another layer of joy came from our friends—new and old—who welcomed us into their VIP cabana, Hypnautica. It was a world within a world, adorned with colorful paper lanterns and hypnotic imagery, including oversized eyes—an homage to Dalí’s recurring symbols of perception, dreams, and the subconscious. From its perch along the dance floor, the cabana struck the perfect balance—immersed in the action, yet grounded in the warmth of community. For their generosity and spirit, we’ll forever be grateful.

A full list of our cabana hosts’ names can be found in the Pines Party Community Journal on page A33. The official journal is a 260+ page, perfect-bound, flip magazine—a collector’s item that will adorn our coffee table for years to come.

The main event, DreamScape on the Beach, drew the largest crowd in years—dancing barefoot on a beautifully restored stretch of sand to the beats of Eli & Fur, Chris Cruse, and Someone from Berlin, until sunrise painted the horizon.  

While the music, costumes, and spectacle were unforgettable, what resonated most was the deeper purpose. Pines Party, presented by The Pines Foundation and Free Radical Design Group, is more than just a celebration—it’s a fundraiser. Over the past 25 years, it has raised more than $4.5 million for LGBTQ+ nonprofits and local preservation efforts. That enduring spirit of generosity is what makes the weekend truly legendary.

Sunday flowed into LUCID at the Pavilion with The Carry Nation, and then into BREAKFAST, where David Harness and Tedd Patterson gave us one final chance to dance beneath the morning sun. Yet beyond the parties, the music, and the laughter, the most magical moment always comes at the very end—leaving hand in hand with Eric, watching the sun rise over the Atlantic. As the music fades and the ocean glows ahead, I’m reminded that life’s greatest magic lies in love, joy, community—and in having someone beside you to share the journey. 

Pines Party 2025 was not only a dream, but a legacy of resilience, creativity, generosity, and love—one I’ll carry with me through the rest of the year and beyond.

The Magic of a Shared Table

As the post–Pines Party month unfolded, Eric and I found ourselves grateful for the chance to break bread with friends who bring such joy and richness into our lives. One of the first dinners that week was at our beloved Elmo in Chelsea—a place that always feels like home and never fails to provide the perfect backdrop for connection. 

Around the table was a truly special group: our dear friend Nathan Lee Graham—actor, singer, and originator of more than 17 roles on stage and screen, known for films like Zoolander, Sweet Home Alabama, and Hitch. He’s currently dazzling audiences as Hermes in the North American tour of Hadestown and just wrapped filming the Hulu comedy Mid-Century Modern with Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer, and the legendary Linda Lavin. 

Joining Nathan was his husband Shane, along with his talent agent, Michael Goodard—a fellow University of Arizona alum, like Eric and me. Rounding out the evening was our wonderful friend Tophe McRae.

The night was full of laughter, conversation, and that rare kind of ease that only comes when you’re surrounded by people who truly matter. Moments like these remind me that joy is not just in the big celebrations, but also in the simple act of gathering at a familiar table with those you love.

Fred at 95: A Milestone of Wisdom, Love, and Chosen Family

Another dinner we enjoyed—and one of the most meaningful of the month for Eric and me—was celebrating our dear friend Fred Rossiter’s 95th birthday. We gathered with a small circle at our favorite neighborhood Italian spot, Le Zie, to honor this extraordinary milestone. 

To have a friend on the cusp of becoming a centenarian is a rare privilege, but even more special is the wisdom Fred shares so generously—from stories of his days as a young gay man in the military to reflections on the love that has shaped his life. His enduring partnership with Bill Black, and the later gift of welcoming James Spiegelhoff into their lives, has created a bond braided together in devotion, light, and joy. Their love is a true testament to the beauty of chosen family, and it has been a gift to all three of them—and to those of us lucky enough to call them friends.

When Inspiration Takes Flight: Sharing the Stage with FlyGirl

I made a quick trip to Dallas to help host a business event, which included a few on-stage duties—most notably introducing our keynote speaker, my longtime friend Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour. Vernice is America’s first Black female combat pilot, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, a proud lesbian, author, and an internationally recognized inspirational speaker known for her work in leadership, resilience, and building a “breakthrough mindset.” I always love sharing a stage with FlyGirl—her contagious energy electrifies the room and leaves everyone inspired.

The West Village’s Newest Obsession: Benji’s Buns

When I returned from the West Coast, I made a beeline to Benji’s Buns at 122 Christopher Street in the West Village—finally getting to experience the buzz I had missed while away in Texas during the grand opening. My UK friend Ben Michael, the visionary behind this sweet spot, greeted me with his famous cinnamon bun topped with creamy vanilla frosting—and even placed the very first bite into my mouth, a playful gesture that only heightened the anticipation of his scrumptious creations.

Benji’s Buns isn’t just about indulgence; it’s a labor of love born from Ben’s personal journey of overcoming struggles with food and eating disorders. Baking became his way to reconnect with food in a positive, joyful way, and now his small-batch, sticky cinnamon buns carry that story in every swirl of dough and frosting. No wonder the shop has quickly become the rave among confection connoisseurs and baked-goods aficionados alike.

When Fire Island Meets the Boardroom: Tristan Schukraft at NGLCC

From the West Village to the West Coast, I found myself in Las Vegas for the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) conference—an annual gathering I haven’t missed in more than a decade. Year after year, it remains a cornerstone in my calendar, uniting like-minded peers, business owners, and advocates who are dedicated to lifting up small and diverse businesses—the true backbone of America.

This year, beyond reconnecting with inspiring entrepreneurs, including my mentee of more than 13 years, Anthony Shop, co-founder of Social Driver, the highlight for me was how my Fire Island Pines world collided with my professional life.

The common thread? Tristan Schukraft.

As founder of MISTR and Tryst Hospitality, Tristan has become both a business force and a community visionary, with his hand in many of the iconic retail spaces that give the Pines its unique flavor. On the NGLCC stage, he brought that same entrepreneurial fire, delivering actionable insights from building pioneering ventures—from LGBTQ+ telehealth, now serving more than half a million patients, to revitalizing beloved queer spaces and launching luxury hotels. His journey took center stage during the Lunch Plenary Session: Powering Possibilities: Stories of Brand, Bravery, and Breakthroughs.
And, true to form, Tristan brought his MISTR Models to electrify the room.

Known for their energy, charm—and yes, their Speedos—they added a spark of Fire Island flair to the business stage, proving that substance and spectacle can coexist beautifully.

From Hot Tub Games to High Tea: Fire Island Icons Take Center Stage in the Pines

That throughline of Tryst kept bubbling up when I returned to the Pines. Just two weekends later, I dove right into the Tryst Pool Club for the Hot Tub Games Pool Party, where Fire Island’s spirit collided head-on with pop culture. The first ripple came with Countess Luann’s grand entrance, but the true splash erupted when my longtime gal pal, Sonja Morgan of Real Housewives of New York fame, took the stage. Picture it: blindfolds, bondage ball gags, and a parade of hot models turning up the heat. It was standing room—and swimming room—only, as the pool overflowed with fans ready to toast one of Bravo’s most iconic originals.

And let’s not forget Labor Day, when the grand return of Lina Bradford at High Tea reminded us all why she’s an icon. Having Lina back to spin filled me with joy; her music, her presence, her messages of love and light have long inspired me and so many others.

Two weekends, two worlds, all stitched together by Tristan, Tryst, and the intersections of community, business, and culture.

Love, Legacy & What Comes Next

As August slips into memory, I carry with me the joy of Fire Island’s DreamScape, the laughter of shared tables, the wisdom of milestones, and the brilliance of friends who inspire. From the Pines to plenaries, from cinnamon buns to champagne toasts, each moment has been a reminder that community is where magic lives. And, as always, there’s so much more ahead. Stay tuned.

Fabulous Fall Events

Autumn has always been one of the best times of year to visit the southern California desert. Temperatures tend to hover in the mid-70s to mid-80s, with minimal humidity, perfect for poolside lounging and relaxed bicycle rides around town (Many of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels offer loaner bikes to guests). Queer visitors from around the country come to Palm Springs seeking comfort and camaraderie, and fall is when the locals love to show off their spirit:

Cinema Diverse, the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s LGBTQ+ film festival runs over two long weekends in September (18-21;25-28)

October’s Modernism Week (19-25), offers guests the opportunity to explore the city’s world-famous Mid-Century Modern architecture on special tours and at events including the Casual Concours classic car show, which benefits the LGBT Community Center of the Desert.

And, smartly dodging the scorching summertime weather, the celebrations of Leather PRIDE (Gods of Leather – 10/30-11/2) followed by Palm Springs’ annual Pride parade and festival (11/6-9) both paint the town rainbow bright the first two weekends of November.

Of course, whenever you’re in town, there’s no shortage of gay festivity, from the nightlife of the Arenas District, to drag brunches and daytime pool parties, to art galleries and architectural tours. There’s also the wildly popular Halloween Celebration on Arenas Road (10/31 of course!). There are costumes and cocktails aplenty, plus great entertainment throughout the evening.

Palm Springs is also a festive place to celebrate the holidays if you’re looking for a break from Winter settings. Thanksgiving is always a celebration and December is filled with events, shopping, sunshine and swim time right up until (and into) the new year!

Strip Away Your Stress

It’s almost impossible to choose which of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels’ amazing properties to stay at. Artful interior design, stunning desert landscaping, and a pool-apalooza of swimming and spa options make for some of Southern California’s most stylish accommodations.  

For some visitors, though, a Palm Springs getaway provides a much-needed escape from more conservative climes, to let their hair down, and take their pants off! As one of the only luxury vacation destinations with multiple clothing-optional men’s resorts, Palm Springs is proud to offer a sense of liberation and acceptance to visitors from around the world who want to shake off the pressure of their everyday lives for a little while.

Gay men of all ages, colors, and body types can feel free to soak in the sunshine and enjoy each other’s company at clothing optional resorts including The Triangle Inn Palm Springs, a walled compound of lush tropical gardens, a sparkling pool, and  eight roomy suites; Casa Oliver, a sexy, sprawling, two-pool  property with an indoor-outdoor labyrinth for frisky visitors; or the Twin Palms, Santiago, and Descanso resorts, where both breakfast and lunch are included in nightly room rates and served poolside, so as long as the sun is up there’s no need for guests to get dressed!

For further flesh al fresco options, check out INNdulge Palm Springs, El Mirasol Villas, Desert Paradise, Vista Grande, Canyon Club, and Hacienda at Warm Sands, all of which offer a welcome chance to shed one’s inhibitions and strip away the stress of daily life.

De-Stress…But Stay Dressed!

For LGBTQ+ travelers looking for a great escape sans skinny-dipping, favorites include the bright and colorful El Noa Noa Hotel; the Stardust, an especially good choice if you’re traveling with a group of friends; and The Velvet Rope, a posh jewel box where each room’s décor is inspired by a different celebrity.

At Amin Casa, the one-time estate of screen star Gloria Swanson, guests can choose to stay in luxurious freestanding residences. Lucille Palm Springs is a newly renovated Mission-style charmer. And Dive offers an ambience reminiscent of the French Riviera in the 1960s.

Try Talavera for a tropical garden aesthetic; Sparrows Lodge for a grown-up summer camp vibe, including breakfast in a barn; Alcazar, a serene Spanish villa, or the Old Ranch Inn, a boutique hotel with cowboy roots!

And there are dozens more options to choose from!

Find Your Community In Ours

Whichever Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels property you choose, you’ll be welcomed as a friend by queer and queer-friendly owners and staff, who understand the value of feeling free to truly relax and enjoy the company of like-minded friends.

That’s an ethos shared throughout Palm Springs’ restaurants, shops, arts organizations and outdoor attractions, and something our city is proud of.

So come join us. And be yourself.

Reserve At A Great Rate Today

Many of Palm Springs’ most appealing accommodations offer special rates during the fall months. And be sure to inquire about additional discounts if you’re planning to stay for five nights or more. 

Check out all the best boutique properties, plus their deals and discounts at www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com

Jim Gladstone is a San Francisco-based writer and creative strategist.

The spacious river view staterooms and suites range from 160 square feet to 710 square feet, and most include the revolutionary signature twin balconies—a French balcony and a full outside balcony. The cabins have hotel-style bedding, en-suite bathrooms, climate control, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The housekeeping staff was attentive, professional, and consistently maintained high standards in terms of cabin cleanliness.   

The dining experience was extraordinary. The bountiful breakfast buffet and all the meals are exquisite; bountiful breakfast, lunch buffets, and multi-course dinners should have a Michelin Star rating. Multiple dining venues, including the one-of-a-kind exclusive Chef’s Table specialty restaurant featuring a unique tasting menu with perfectly paired wines for intimate dining experiences

The onboard entertainment is low-key and cultural. Evenings typically feature live music or performances reflecting local traditions. The bar/lounge often hosts these shows after dinner. There are no large-scale production shows like those on ocean cruises, but the nightly entertainment is classy and relaxed. Daily briefings also take place in the bar/lounge area.  

There is also a small fitness center (treadmill, weights, bikes) and a wellness host who leads daily stretching and yoga classes on deck (weather permitted) or in the lounge, and a small gift shop that sells souvenirs and sundries.

Daily life is paced by the river: sail in daylight, dock, or cruise through the night.

A few of the highlights in each of the cities we stopped: 

• Passau, Germany: “City of Three Rivers” – walking tour of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the castle-hill hike​.


• Linz, Austria: Choice of full-day Salzburg (with Mirabell Gardens, “Sound of Music” Mondsee stop) or Český Krumlov tours; or short Linz walking/bike tours​


• Wachau Valley, Austria: Scenic cruise through Strudengau/Wachau; port in Dürnstein for a walking tour or fortress hike (legend of Richard the Lionheart) with wine/fruit tastings, and visit to Baroque Melk Abbey (The Sound of Music) 


• Vienna, Austria: “Imperial Vienna” sightseeing (Opera House, Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral) or bike tour, plus afternoon free time​.


• Bratislava, Slovakia: Walking tour of Old Town “Coronation City,” or a “Tastes of Slovakia” culinary tour, or hike to Bratislava Castle​.


• Budapest, Hungary: Guided tours of Buda (Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church) and Pest (Parliament, Heroes’ Square, memorials)​ before final morning disembarkation.



• Practically every day, excursions are offered, including guided tours and special activities. Each port visit typically has multiple choices, catering to different interests and fitness levels. In most towns, you’ll find: a historic walking tour (gentle pace), an “active” tour (more walking/hiking or cycling), and often a special-interest tour (wine tasting, beer tasting, local craft demos, etc.) Regardless of your choice, you're sure to have a wonderful time. 


As I mentioned, we stayed a few extra days in Budapest and stayed at The Ritz-Carlton. The Ritz delivered an elegant and memorable stay. Rooms are spacious, stylish, and equipped with thoughtful amenities, while many offer beautiful city views. Service is consistently attentive and personalized. The dining options, including the Kupola Lounge beneath its striking glass dome, provide a refined atmosphere for both breakfast and evening cocktails. On the night my husband and I got engaged, the hotel staff surprised us with a little engagement party, which included cake, fruit, and a bottle of champagne. 

With its central location, luxurious comfort, and impeccable hospitality, The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest is an excellent choice for a five-star experience.   

Our first river cruise with AmaWaterways far exceeded expectations and turned us into instant fans. From start to finish, the experience was elegant, enriching, and seamless.

Both the journey and the destinations shined, from the “City of Three Rivers” in Passau to Salzburg’s “Sound of Music” charm, Vienna’s imperial splendor, and the vibrant finale in Budapest. Extending the trip at The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest was the perfect capstone, with luxurious rooms, exceptional service, and a personalized touch that made it unforgettable.

AmaWaterways may not explicitly market itself as an LGBTQ+ cruise line, but it has earned a reputation as welcoming and inclusive. Many LGBTQ+ travelers have described the onboard environment as warm, affirming, and filled with thoughtful hospitality

In every way, this trip blended relaxation, culture, and five-star hospitality—leaving us eager to book our next AmaWaterways adventure. 
For more information about AmaWaterways, visit www.amawaterways.com

Copyright Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Copyright Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.