Say her name: Renee Macklin Good. For the history books, I want to go down as raising my voice and using my platform to bring awareness — and someday maybe justice — to the senseless murder of a mother of three who was protesting ICE in Minneapolis.
Renee and her wife Becca Good had recently moved to the Twin Cities to start a new life with their three children. Perhaps the lesbian couple thought that a bigger city in a blue state would provide some sense of safety that a red state could not.
Becca’s statement is read by @janashortal, a local Minneapolis St. Paul KARE-TV anchor, who reads in its full form. The statement reads, “This kindness of strangers is the most fitting tribute because if you ever encountered my wife, Renee Nicole Macklin Good, you know that above all else, she was kind. In fact, kindness radiated out of her.”
“Renee sparkled. She literally sparkled. I mean, she didn’t wear glitter but I swear she had sparkles coming out of her pores. All the time. You might think it was just my love talking but her family said the same thing. Renee was made of sunshine.”
Becca went on to tell reporters that when she, Renee and their six-year-old son road-tripped to Minnesota for the chance to make a better life, the couple held hands the entire car ride. Their son made drawings on the windows as the miles stretched on toward Minneapolis.
When they arrived, they found a vibrant and welcoming community and a “strong shared sense here in Minneapolis that we were looking out for each other.” Becca said she finally found peace and safe harbor.
What hits close to home is that sense of peace and safe harbor that we find here in Palm Springs. Because of the leadership of our police chief, Andy Mills, we know that law enforcement has our backs and equally protects and serves our community. Every LGBTQIA+ letter is respected and our small town doesn’t tolerate hate.
But as ICE agents and Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies under Chad Bianco work to enforce draconian initiatives from the federal government, Mills and his force may find themselves at odds. Our sense of safety and protection wanes.
We’ve already had mostly peaceful protests in the valley, but Renee’s murder by an ICE agent certainly has a chilling effect on wanting to do so. That’s part of the strategy, of course, just like the FCC threatens broadcast licenses and mergers to silence opposition.
It’s a troubling time for our world. Renee’s death won’t be in vain, and will hopefully go down as a pivotal time in our history. We need a turning point and, of course, we need justice.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: Best of the Fest
The Palm Springs International Film Festival wraps up on Monday, January 12, with the entire day devoted to Best of the Fest screenings — a final chance to catch the standout films that captured Jury Selections and Audience Favorites, all freshly announced on Sunday. Explore the full list and discover which titles rose to the top. Get tickets
MON: The Wishing Well Benefit Concert
The Wishing Well Benefit and Concert for Well in the Desert brings the community together on Monday, January 12 from 5–9 pm at Mission Hills Country Club for an evening supporting local efforts to fight food insecurity. The event honors Dan Gore of Oscar’s and features a champagne reception, live and silent auctions, dinner and an impressive lineup of entertainers including Frank DiSalvo, Kristi King, Lisa Lynn Morgan, Yve Evans, Chris Bennett, Tony Grandberry, Patrice Morris, Brian Scott, Bonnie G., Eve Holmes, Gregg Marx and Kevin Tokarz, with Bella da Ball serving as emcee. Get tickets
Opens WED: One Man, Two Guvnors
CVRep kicks off the new year with the riotous comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, opening Wednesday, January 14 and running through Sunday, February 1. Richard Bean’s award‑winning adaptation of Carlo Goldoni’s classic farce follows the endlessly hungry Francis Henshall, who takes on two jobs—while desperately trying to keep his bosses from discovering each other. With sharp wit, physical comedy and songs by Grant Olding, this fast‑paced production delivers a joyful tangle of mistaken identities, near‑misses and escalating chaos that keeps audiences laughing from start to finish. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum
The McCallum Theatre offers a dynamic week of performances, beginning Tuesday, January 13 with internationally acclaimed pianist Dmitry Shishkin, celebrated for his electrifying artistry and award‑winning interpretations. On Wednesday, January 14, The Peking Acrobats bring three decades of gravity‑defying feats, dazzling balance and high‑energy spectacle. Saturday, January 17 features Jay Leno, the legendary late‑night host, and the week concludes Sunday, January 18 with Wild Cats Revealed, as National Geographic Explorer Sandesh Kadur showcases India’s extraordinary diversity of lesser‑known felines. More info
WED: Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Speaker Series
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum continues its Speaker Series with Legacy: Law and Indian Land on Wednesday, January 14 at 6 pm, offering an illuminating look at the educational fellowship supported by the annual Richard M. Milanovich Legacy Hike. Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Chairman Reid D. Milanovich and Secretary‑Treasurer Savana R. Saubel will be joined by current fellow W. Tanner Allread of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to discuss how this program advances legal training and scholarship focused on Indian nations’ laws. More info
THU: Melissa Manchester w/The Desert Symphony
Melissa Manchester joins The Desert Symphony for a luminous evening of music at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Thursday, January 15 at 7:30 pm. A Grammy Award winner and Great American Songbook Hall of Fame inductee, Manchester brings her signature warmth and vocals to a program celebrating her remarkable career, from Academy Award–nominated classics to beloved hits like “Midnight Blue.” Get tickets
THU: Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! – The Musical
The Plaza Theatre welcomes young audiences for a lively performance of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! – The Musical on Thursday, January 15 at 10 am, a joyful introduction to live theatre for students in Pre‑K through 2nd grade. Based on Mo Willems’ beloved picture books with music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, the show follows the Pigeon’s hilarious quest to get behind the wheel, blending humor, imagination and catchy songs. Presented as part of the ARTS TEACH KIDS program, this event reflects the Plaza Theatre’s renewed commitment to community engagement and arts education. Get tickets
Opens THU: Eureka Day
Dezart Performs opens its new season with Jonathan Spector’s award‑winning satire Eureka Day, launching Thursday, January 15 at the Dezart Playhouse, running through Sunday, January 25. Winner of the 2025 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, this sharply funny and strikingly relevant comedy follows a progressive school board whose ideals are pushed to the breaking point when a mumps outbreak ignites a battle over public health, personal freedom and digital‑age discourse. A mix of laugh‑out‑loud chaos and incisive social commentary. Get tickets
FRI: Patti LaBelle 8065 Tour
Patti LaBelle brings her legendary voice to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Friday, January 16 at 8 pm. As part of her 8065 Tour, the iconic performer delivers an evening of powerhouse vocals, timeless hits and soulful storytelling drawn from a remarkable career spanning more than six decades. From chart‑topping classics to inspiring new moments, LaBelle’s artistry, warmth and unmistakable style make this a must‑see night with one of music’s most enduring stars. Get tickets
FRI: Top of the World Carpenters Tribute
The Plaza Theatre hosts the timeless sound of Karen and Richard Carpenter with Top of the World – A Carpenters Tribute on Friday, January 16 at 7 pm. Led by vocalist Debbie Taylor, whose uncanny Karen Carpenter tone anchors the performance, this eight‑piece ensemble delivers every harmony and arrangement with remarkable authenticity, performing together as a full touring band with no tracks. Get tickets
OPENS FRI: Assassins
Revolution Stage Company presents Assassins, the Tony Award–winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman, on running January 16–31. This bold and provocative production examines the motivations and mythology surrounding nine figures who attempted to alter American history, blending dark humor, sharp commentary, and unforgettable music. It’s a rare chance to experience one of Sondheim’s most daring works live onstage in Palm Springs. Get tickets
OPENS FRI: Camp Morning Wood at the new Prism Theater
Camp Morning Wood makes its West Coast premiere at the new Prism Theater on Friday, January 16, launching a run that continues through Sunday, March 22. Fresh from its Off‑Broadway success, this bold and irreverent musical follows a newly engaged couple who unexpectedly land at a gay nudist camp, setting the stage for cheeky comedy, lively songs and outrageous choreography. The show blends playful storytelling with cleverly placed props for a night of spirited, laugh‑out‑loud fun. Get tickets
OPENS FRI: I Do! I Do!
Palm Canyon Theatre opens its run of the beloved two‑person musical I Do! I Do! on Friday, January 16, running through Sunday, January 25, inviting audiences into a tender, humorous and deeply relatable portrait of 50 years of marriage. With a graceful score by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, the show follows one couple through the milestones, missteps and moments of joy that shape a lifetime together. Get tickets
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 103.1 listener, you already know we’re always hustling to stay ahead of the fast‑moving world of radio and technology. We want to keep delivering the content you love in the ways you actually use, which is why we’re inviting you to take part in our annual tech survey. Tell us how radio fits into your day alongside social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web—everything that keeps you connected to entertainment, news and updates from KGAY and beyond. You might even enjoy taking a moment to reflect on how your own listening habits have evolved as a KGAY fan! Take the survey
A Fresh New Glow on Sunny 106.5
Say hello to Sunny 106.5, the Coachella Valley’s fresh new radio station. Sunny 106.5 is your go-to for feel-good favorites from the ’90s, 2000s, and more—music so bright, you gotta wear shades. From Mariah Carey and Matchbox Twenty to Adele, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and hundreds of other favorites, it’s the perfect soundtrack for your day. More than just great music, Sunny 106.5 keeps you connected to the community with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans of News Channel 3, plus friendly, familiar voices throughout the day. Sunny 106.5 is bright music and good vibes for Greater Palm Springs! Learn more
KGAY is Now at 103.1
Meanwhile, KGAY Radio started the New Year with a major upgrade, moving to a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM as it enters its eighth year serving Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley and the LGBTQ+ community by expanding coverage and adding an HD digital signal for clearer, more reliable listening. Streaming also continues worldwide at KGAYPalmSprings.com.
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, January 12
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, January 14
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, January 15
Yappy Hour w/Animal Samaritans | 4–6 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Cabaret L’Amour | 7 pm at The Velvet Rope Hotel
Friday, January 16
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Liberace & Liza: A Tribute (SOLD OUT) | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Razzle Dazzle Broadway Revue | 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
Saturday, January 17
Liberace & Liza: A Tribute (SOLD OUT) | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: Beginner Waltz with Alicia Hennick | 7 pm at Step by Step
Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, January 18
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
Desert Town Hall: KT McFarlan | Renaissance Esmeralda Resort
The Judy Show! | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
Get our Latest Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out the latest edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places for Food & Drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Attractions, Gay Resorts with passes, Dispensaries, and other services. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
THIS WEEKEND
TASTE – On the Mark’s Food & Beverage Festival
On Saturday, January 17 from 12–5:30 pm, TASTE lands at The Shag House with an immersive food and beverage festival hosted by On The Mark. Set inside the iconic midcentury home designed by SHAG, this exclusive event offers unlimited samples from boutique purveyors spanning caviar, oysters, wine, beer, spirits, chocolates and more. Guests receive early access to a limited‑edition SHAG glass and can choose between a general admission session or an elevated VIP experience featuring reserve pours and premium bites. Get tickets
Matteo Lane
Matteo Lane brings his sharp wit, musical flair, and unmistakable charisma to the Plaza Theatre stage for an added 3rd show (after the first two sold out) on Saturday, January 17 at 9:45 pm. Known for his global sell‑out tours, viral comedy specials, and standout screen appearances, he blends powerhouse vocals, quick-fire storytelling, and unapologetic authenticity into a performance that feels both electric and intimate. Get tickets
Midnight Orienteering Opening Reception
Rubine Red Gallery hosts the opening reception for Midnight Orienteering on Saturday, January 17 from 5–8 pm, unveiling a compelling series of mono-prints by artist and printmaker Drew Peterson. Spanning work created from 2013 to 2025, the exhibition traces Peterson’s evolution as he blends analog printmaking with the immediacy of watercolor to explore experimentation, intuition and sustained artistic inquiry. More info
Broadway’s Best in the West: Sierra Boggess
Broadway’s Best in the West is at the Palm Springs Cultural Center for its third season, with Sierra Boggess taking the stage on Saturday, January 17 at 7 pm. One of Broadway’s most celebrated leading ladies, Boggess brings her acclaimed interpretations of iconic roles—including her internationally praised portrayal of Christine Daaé—to this intimate desert concert series. The season continues with Jessica Vosk on February 14 and Tony Yazbeck on March 14. Get tickets
Hermitage Piano Trio
International Classical Concerts of the Desert presents the acclaimed Hermitage Piano Trio on Saturday, January 17 from 3–5 pm at Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church. Celebrated for their expressive power and technical brilliance, the trio has earned multiple GRAMMY nominations and widespread praise from audiences and critics alike. Their return to the desert offers an afternoon of richly layered chamber music performed by one of the world’s leading ensembles. Get tickets
Palm Springs Art Festival
The Palm Springs Art Festival returns to Frances Stevens Park for its 37th year, welcoming visitors on Saturday–Sunday, January 17–18 from 10 am–4 pm. This beloved Uptown event showcases an impressive range of work across two‑ and three‑dimensional mixed media, ceramics, digital art, glass, jewelry, painting, photography and sculpture, bringing together artists from across the region during peak season. The first in a trio of festivals scheduled through March. More info
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- Palm Springs International Film Festival Best of the Fest
Mon. Jan 12 - The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas
Dec. 22–Jan. 25 at the Palm Springs Art Museum - One Man, Two Guvnors, presented by CVRep
Jan 14–Feb 1 - Melissa Manchester w/The Desert Symphony
Thu. Jan 15 at 7:30 pm at The Show - Eureka Day – presented by Dezart Performs
Jan 15–25 - I Do! I Do! – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Jan 16–25 - Assassins – presented by Revolution Stage Company
Jan 16–31 - TASTE – On The Mark’s Food & Beverage Festival
Sat. Jan 17 from 12–5:30 pm at The Shag House - Bourbon Tasting featuring the Garrison Brothers Distillery
Mon. Jan 19 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room - Pops at the Plaza: Liz Callaway
Tue. Jan 20 at 7:30 pm at the Plaza Theatre - Camp Morning Wood – presented by Prism Theater
Jan 23–Mar 22 - Jussen Brothers Piano Duo
Fri. Jan 23 at the Plaza Theatre - The Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival
Sat. Jan 24 from 9 am–1 pm at Ruth Hardy Park - Art Party 2026 – Bob Mackie
Sat. Jan 24 at 5 pm at the Palm Springs Art Museum - Rock the Park: Bruno & The Hooligans
Wed. Feb 4 at 7 pm at Downtown Park, Palm Springs - The Chase 2026
Sat. Feb 21 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Legends of Pop Festival: Madonna, Prince & Michael Jackson
Sat. Feb 28 at 6 pm at The Show
Pulido Law Group: Celebrations can sometimes bring unexpected legal problems, and a DUI arrest or citation can turn a good night into a stressful situation fast. You don’t have to navigate the aftermath on your own. Attorney Reynaldo Pulido of Pulido Law Group in Cathedral City provides experienced, steady guidance to help you understand your options and protect your future. Learn more
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their high-energy throwback mixes. On Sundays, we put all five hours together for the Retro Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY Sunday Tea Dance with Modgirl airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). All our DJs took honors in the Best of Coachella Valley this year! Listen to KGAY 103.1 online
This Week: Modgirl heads to West Hollywood on Friday, January 16 at 9:30 pm with a Velour Fridays takeover at Roosterfish. She keeps the momentum going on Saturday, January 17 at 10 pm for Paradisco at Kiss Kiss Bang Bang in Los Angeles, before shifting into daytime mode back home on Sunday, January 18 at 10 am with a bright, beat‑driven A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa in Palm Springs.
- ‘On the Sea’ at PSIFF: Desire, Duty, Masculinity, and Hidden Longing on the Welsh Coast
- Dark Gay Mystery Series Unfolds at a Clothing‑Optional Palm Springs Resort
- New Coachella Valley Restaurants, Cafés, Breweries, and Eateries Opening in 2026
- Top Things to Do in Rancho Mirage: Trails, Resorts, Dining & More
- New El Paseo Shops, Galleries, Boutiques, and Eateries to Explore
Find out what’s happening on any given day by browsing our Gay Desert Guide Online Event Listing Calendar, and for the big picture, take a look at major upcoming events in our 2026 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” John Taylor is on mornings 6–10 am and program director Chris Shebel is on afternoons. Our Retro Lunch with DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas is heard on Sundays as the Retro Lunch & Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm, followed by Modgirl spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.