hilling effect was taught to me as a teenage college student studying broadcasting and journalism at Central Michigan University. Back then, it was mostly FCC policy such as aging laws around indecency and the Fairness Doctrine, whereby broadcasters had to provide balanced coverage.
Back then, there were limited media choices — it was a time before CNN, Fox News, the internet and social media. Today, after deregulation, our current administration has an arctic chill over free speech. They’ve filed massive lawsuits against institutions like UCLA, defunded public broadcasting, and terminated those who speak out.
The new chilling effect is also a by-product by those out for revenge after the Charlie Kirk assassination. I’m reading with concern over condemnations, threats and firings due to expressing one’s opinion. It’s caused one family to have to go into hiding. My feeds on social media have been filled with all-Kirk-all-the-time. The rhetoric is turned up to 11.
Sen. Ted Cruz condemned author Stephen King for an X post saying the political commentator previously advocated for the act of throwing stones to kill gay people. King had retracted the post and expressed regret for taking a comment Kirk made on his podcast last year out of context.
That apology wasn’t enough for Ted, who went to town on King calling him a “horrible, evil, twisted liar.” Really??? Now, administration officials and other members of Congress are threatening retribution according to Mother Jones. More than just chilling, it’s the suffocation of public discourse.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis #SupportYourStation
WED: Business Expo and Taste of Palm Springs
The Business Expo & Taste of Palm Springs returns Wednesday, September 17 from 5–9 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort. Attendees can explore over 100 local businesses, sample bites from more than 40 restaurants, and enjoy wine and beer tastings throughout the evening. Live entertainment features Prince Again, the top tribute to Prince; come for a night of networking, flavor, and music in the heart of Palm Springs. Look for the KGAY booth and stop by to say hi! Get tickets
WED: The Center Women’s Social
The Center Women’s Social returns on Wednesday, September 17 from 5:30–7 pm at Willie’s Modern Fare in Rancho Mirage. This monthly gathering invites women from across the community to connect, unwind, and enjoy lively conversation in a welcoming atmosphere. Hosted every third Wednesday, the event offers a relaxed space to build friendships and celebrate community spirit—perfect for newcomers and longtime locals alike. More info
STARTS THU: Cinema Diverse
Cinema Diverse returns to Palm Springs for its eighteenth edition, celebrating LGBTQ+ voices through bold, timely storytelling and cinematic artistry. Running Thursday–Sunday, September 18–21 and Thursday–Sunday, Sept 25–28 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, this acclaimed film festival showcases a dynamic lineup of features, shorts, and documentaries from around the globe—each amplifying queer perspectives and creative resilience. The festival opens with Beautiful Evening, Beautiful Day, a stirring historical drama from Croatian filmmaker Ivona Juka, set in 1950s Yugoslavia and spotlighting four gay partisans navigating love, repression, and the power of film under a totalitarian regime. The film sets the tone for a weekend of thought-provoking screenings and community connection. Get tickets
STARTS THU: Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival
The Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival returns Thursday–Saturday, September 18–20 at Hotel Zoso with “Blues at the Woodstock,” a dynamic celebration of pioneering women in blues. Featuring performances by Ruthie Foster, Martha Redbone, Bette Smith, Habaka, and Dr. Gail Jhonson with the Blues All-Stars, the festival honors the legacy and power of female artists who shaped the genre. Alongside concerts, attendees can enjoy exhibitions, film screenings, and community events that spotlight resilience, artistry, and cultural impact. More info
THU: Library Renovation Groundbreaking
The Palm Springs Public Library invites the community to a special Groundbreaking Celebration for its long-awaited Renovation project on Thursday, September 18 from 9:15–10:15 am. Held at the library’s original entrance on the south side of the building, the event will feature remarks from Mayor Ron deHarte, City Councilmembers, and library leadership. Attendees will witness the start of a new chapter in the library’s history, as city officials and supporters gather to honor the role of public libraries in education, connection, and civic pride. More info
FRI: 3rd Annual Fire Gala
Prepare for a memorable evening of laughter and community as California Indian Nations College presents its 3rd Annual Fire Gala: “Going for the Gold.” The fundraising event will take place on Friday, September 19, from 6–8 pm, at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. The gala features acclaimed Native Comedian Jim Ruel, known for his sharp wit and cultural insight. Your ticket includes entertainment, dinner, and access to a silent auction, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting higher learning at CINC. Get tickets
FRI: Sleepy Hollow at Sunnylands
Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens series continues Friday, September 19 from 7:30–9:30 pm with a screening of Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow (1999). Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics for a spooky night beneath the trees. Gates open at 6 pm, and snacks and drinks will be available from the café until 8:30 pm. Presented in partnership with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, this free outdoor event offers a haunting cinematic escape in the gardens. More info
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month continues, delivering a full month of revitalizing wellness offerings at the region’s most iconic resorts and spas. With more than 100 luxurious deals now live, guests can indulge in discounted massages, facials, overnight spa stays, and yoga sessions—all designed to soothe the senses and harness the restorative spirit of the desert. Whether you’re planning a peaceful solo getaway or a rejuvenating retreat with friends, Spa Month invites you to relax and renew. Advance booking is highly encouraged. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, September 15
Mizell Kitchen Series: Pasta Rustica | 3–5 pm at Mizell Center
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Tuesday, September 16
Kiss of the Spider Woman Exclusive Screening + Talkback | 6 pm at PS Art Museum
Wednesday, September 17
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, September 18
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 7–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, September 19
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, September 20
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
