Gay Bartenders Descend on Palm Springs

Seven bartenders from gay clubs around the country will converge on Palm Springs, Calif., this Sunday for the inaugural Palm Springs Cocktail Challenge.

According to The Desert Sun, bartenders have competed since May to qualify for the finale, which will take place at 5 p.m. at Georgie's Alibi/Azuls.

"Emceed by Bella da Ball, 'Palm Springs Social Ambassador,' each bartender will develop three Palm Springs inspired drinks: Signature Shot; Signature Martini and Signature Cocktail. Bartenders will be judged on taste, presentation and name of each drink, in addition to their looks, presentation and audience participation. Contestants will also receive bonus points if 'Palm' or 'Springs' is in the name or recipe of the drink."

The contestants are Wil Douglas of Charlie's Las Vegas; Jae Cho of Sidetrack in Chicago; Andy Santiago of Micky's West Hollywood; Dale Phillips of BJ's NXS in Dallas; Sean Brunle of Bourbon Street in San Diego; Scot Newell of Georgie's Alibi in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; and Jeff Wiley of the Lobby Bar in Seattle.