In the halcyon days of Radio, I held my third class FCC license which I first received in 1972. I was just a young punk who wanted to run the controls of our local radio station. My mom had to drive me to the testing facility. She wasn’t sure would pass, but I did. I was hired at my local radio station the following year in 1973. So this weekend will be my 52nd anniversary working in Radio (and my 67th birthday!)
Back in the 1970s, there were an only AM & FM broadcast stations. ABC, CBS, NBC and PBS. No cable TV, and certainly no Internet.
I came across my FCC third class license this week. Here were the things we weren’t supposed to do on the air — the prohibitions for a licensed broadcast operator:
*Unauthorized disclosure or use of messages
*Use of obscene, indecent or profane language,
*False or deceptive signals or Communications
*Unnecessary, unidentified or superfluous Communications
*Willful or malicious interference with Communications
My how times have changed! Disney/ABC fires Jimmy Kimmel. Trump sues networks and newspapers. The FCC can now be bought and sold. It’s a sad time in our country’s history, and we have no idea where it’s headed.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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TUE: Broadway Bound – A Night with Erik Scott Romney
Broadway Bound – A Benefit Concert, takes place Tuesday, September 23 from 6–8 pm at V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar, featuring hometown talent Erik Scott Romney in a spirited benefit concert. With a backdrop of Broadway dreams and New York flair, this lively evening invites the community to rally behind Erik’s journey to the big stage. No cover charge—just heartfelt support, great music, and a chance to help one of Palm Springs’ own make it to Broadway. Don’t miss the exciting ‘song auction’ throughout the event. Donations accepted. More info
STARTS WED: The Dinah
The Dinah returns Wednesday–Sunday, September 24–28 for a landmark celebration at the Riviera Resort & Spa—marking the final edition produced by founder Mariah Hanson after 34 groundbreaking years. While the future of the event remains open, this year’s Dinah promises a once-in-a-generation sendoff led by L Word icons Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey, alongside Princess Nokia, Crystal Waters, SkyDxddy, Xana and many more performers and special guests. A pillar of queer culture and Palm Springs nightlife, The Dinah’s 2025 lineup honors Hanson’s legacy with unforgettable music, community, and desert magic. Get tickets
STARTS WED: Big Bear Film Fest
The Big Bear Film Fest runs Wednesday–Monday, September 24–29, transforming Big Bear Lake into a high-altitude celebration of storytelling, innovation, and community. With six days of screenings, panels, and pop-up experiences, BBFF showcases diverse voices across film, comedy, live cinema, and immersive media. Highlights include a tribute to Cheech & Chong for Hispanic Heritage Month and inclusive programming spotlighting Latinx, LGBTQIA+, Indigenous, and disabled creators. Get tickets
WED: “Show Your Heart” Mixer
The “Show Your Heart” Mixer invites community members to connect with local nonprofit organizations in a lively, welcoming setting. Held Wednesday, September 24 from 4–6 pm at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory, this event offers a chance to explore volunteer opportunities, board service, and fall programming while mingling with some of the region’s most dedicated changemakers. More info
THU: Cinema Diverse Continues
Cinema Diverse returns for the second weekend of its eighteenth edition, celebrating LGBTQ+ voices through bold, timely storytelling and cinematic artistry, this Thursday–Sunday, Sept 25–28 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Thursday, September 25 features a vibrant mix of shorts plus Namas Dei: The Tucker J. James Story, a satirical tale of fame and failure; Love Me Bait Me, a documentary tracing LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood; and 300 Letters, a tender breakup story told through handwritten notes. Friday, September 26 brings A Portrait of Love, an intimate tribute to artist Craig Ruddy; Lolita, a gritty drama about redemption and fatherhood; Papi’s Pregnant, a poetic chronicle of queer pregnancy and healthcare; and Surviving Voices, a powerful trio honoring HIV survivors and the legacy of the AIDS Memorial Quilt…and there’s much more, too! Get tickets
FRI: Cans ‘N Kibble Pet Food Drive
The Palm Springs Animal Shelter hosts its Cans ‘N Kibble Pet Food Drive on Friday, September 26 from 10 am–3 pm, supporting the Rick Erwin Pet Food Bank’s mission to keep pets with their families during times of need. Volunteers will be stationed across the Coachella Valley to collect essential kibble and canned food—no treats, just the basics. Donations help reduce shelter surrenders and ensure beloved companions stay fed and cared for. Monetary contributions are also welcome and will be used to purchase needed supplies. More info
FRI: Riverside County 62nd Anniversary Reception – Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest marks its 62nd anniversary with a Riverside County Cocktail Reception on Friday, September 26 from 5:30–7:30 pm at the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs. Guests will hear from featured speaker Jenny Black, the organization’s new President & CEO, whose decades of leadership have shaped reproductive health care across some of the nation’s most challenging regions. Get tickets
FRI: Concert for Autism Series
The 18th Annual Concert for Autism kicks off its multi-week music series on Friday, September 26 from 7:30–9:30 pm at Coachella Valley Brewing Co. in Thousand Palms. This opening night sets the tone for a season of live performances benefiting the Desert Autism Foundation, culminating in the Main Event at Big Rock Pub in Indio on Saturday, October 25. With additional concerts scheduled at The Hood Bar & Pizza and Coachella Valley Brewing Co. in October, the series invites the community to come together in support of autism awareness through music and connection. More info
FRI: Celebrating Meat Loaf
Celebrating Meat Loaf – Bat Out of Helloween roars into The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, September 26 at 8 pm. This electrifying concert features the original band members who powered Meat Loaf’s legendary sound, joined by powerhouse vocalist Caleb Johnson. Audiences will be treated to a high-octane setlist of classics like “Bat Out of Hell” and “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” plus a second set of Rocky Horror hits including “Hot Patootie.” Created and produced by longtime collaborator Paul Crook, this is the only show officially endorsed by Meat Loaf himself. Get tickets
FRI: Pan’s Labyrinth at Sunnylands
Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens series continues Friday, September 26 from 7:30–9:30 pm with a screening of Pan’s Labyrinth (2006). 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
Vote KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley!
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round Ballot—Thank you for the incredible support and strong showing in this year’s nominations—now’s the time to vote and help spotlight your favorites to win! Our contenders include: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel in Life in the Valley > Best Local Radio Personality, and our dynamic DJ trio—DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl—in Arts > Best Local DJ. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, October 29. Cast your vote today!
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 22
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
Wednesday, September 24
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, September 25
Nights on the Oasis Trail | 6–9 pm at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
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 26
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, September 27
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Shadow with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
