Internet Sensation to Sign Books in Cathedral City

The Old Gay Guys, an Internet Sensation, to Hold Panel Discussion, Book Signing

CATHEDRAL CITY — The Old Gays, a group of Cathedral City residents and LBGT+ activists who range in age from 67-80, are an internet sensation with more than 11 million followers on TikTok, more than 680,000 thousand followers on Instagram and more than 500,000 on Facebook.

The group consists of Robert Reeves, Michael “Mick” Peterson, Bill Lyons and Jessay Martin. They have recently published a book titled the “Old Gays Guide to Living,” published by Harper Collins. Now they will hold a panel discussion, read from their book, and sign books in their community — all with the approval of the City Council.

They are making their book debut at home, long before making national appearances in New York and beyond.

Three members of the group attended the City Council meeting.

Mayor Pro Tem Mark Carnevale asked about the book and its contents.

Peterson said it’s about life’s ups and down, lessons learned, and growing up.

The City Council voted 4-0 Wednesday evening to the funding requests from the Public Arts Commission and the Parks and Recreation and Community Events Commission for the Old Gays Book Signing and panel discussion event. Councilmember Raymond Gregory was absent.

Public Arts Commissioner Leonard Travis and Parks and Community Events Commissioner Antonio Baciu proposed to their respective commissions the idea of jointly hosting a book signing and panel discussion. They have been working with the promoter for the Old Gays to coordinate the logistics for the event. The event is to take place at the Mary Pickford Theater on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. The book signing will be managed by the Best Book Store of Palm Springs.

The commissioners proposed a budget of $1,600 for the event. The budget will cover $1,000 for the rental, sound and lighting staff of the Mary Pickford Theater and $600 for refreshments. The event will be free and open to the public; however, tickets will be needed as there will be a limited number of seats available.

The event fits in with the City Council’s Goal F in the 5-year Strategic plan, which calls for the city to be an “Embracing, Inclusive Community.”

Staff recommended the City Council approve the event.

Photo above: Bill Lyons, Robet Reeves and Michael “Mick” Peterson