April 21, 2011 Edition of the Bay Area Reporter

3

9

54th San Francisco International Film Festival

Pay to pee

The race for Room 200

21

HAPPY EASTER from the B.A.R.

The

www.ebar.com

Aaron Belkin

Serving the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities since 1971

Chaz Bono

Olympia Dukakis

Diverse group selected as Pride grand marshals

Yigit Pura

Christiana Remington

Vol. 41 • No. 16 • April 21-27, 2011

Yvette Flunder

by Seth Hemmelgarn

T

his year’s San Francisco Pride Parade grand marshals are a diverse bunch, ranging from the country’s first elected out transgender trial judge to African

Therese Stewart

Victoria Kolakowski

American faith leaders.

The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee reported that with the online voting system that debuted this year, 2,736 people made their choices See page 16 >>

Roland Stringfellow

Graylin K. Thornton

Rick Gerharter

CA schools already teaching gay history

House hires DOMA attorney – at $520 per hour

by Matthew S. Bajko

by Lisa Keen

A

T

he House of Representatives has obligated itself to pay $500,000 for outside attorneys to defend the Defense of Marriage Act in federal courts. And, in what may be a surprise to many, the House has chosen a firm that Paul Clement clearly prides itself on including LGBT lawyers among its staff.

The law firm, King and Spalding, has offices in Washington, D.C., New York, San Francisco, and Atlanta, as well as major cities around the world. Its website notes that it “actively recruits LGBT law students and seeks opportunities to partner with LGBT student organizations. ...”

The contract calls for the House to pay the firm $520 per hour in attorney time and $390 per

Lydia Gonzales

Palm Sunday procession T

he Reverend Molly Haws hands out palms to Anthony Urso and Nancy Chan while they dine at Orphan Andy’s during the second annual Open Cathedral

Castro Palm Sunday Procession hosted by San Francisco Night Ministries on Sunday, April 17. For more on Holy Week church services and Easter weekend fun, see page 8.

See page 16 >>

s anti-gay groups lash out against a move to require California schools to teach students about LGBT history, school districts around the state are already adding gayrelated lessons to the curriculum.

And the push to see the accomplishments of LGBT people be discussed in the classroom isn’t happening solely in gay-friendly urban districts such as in San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Educators in more suburban areas such as Sacramento are also following suit.

The Sacramento City Unified School District is encouraging its teachers to talk to their pupils about the late gay Supervisor Harvey Milk, the state’s first out elected politician who was killed in office in 1978. The move follows the creation by state lawmakers of an unofficial state holiday each year on Milk’s birthday, May 22.

“This is new for this year,” said Lawrence Shweky, a straight man who co-chairs the district’s LGBT Task Force.

Comprised of school district staff, administrators, teachers, community members, See page 14 >>

{ FIRST OF TWO SECTIONS }

2 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

<< Community News

April 21-27, 2011

▼

Rick Gerharter

Support for trans assault victim N

early 300 transgender people and allies attended an April 15 rally at 16th and Mission streets to support Mia Tu Mutch, left, a victim of recent street violence. Tu Mutch, 20, as she is known, was physically assaulted near the 16th Street BART station on April 1; she also said that she was sexually assaulted.

Two men Lionel Jackson, 32, and Maurice Perry, 37, have pleaded not guilty to felony assault charges. No one has been charged with sexual assault. District Attorney George Gascón, in background, also attended the Friday rally. The sign says, “Open your arms to fly with Ella.”

Shooting victim recalls Oakland incident

by Seth Hemmelgarn

R

omel Reid was drinking with two friends a couple months ago near 14th Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Oakland when, he said recently, two “boys” walked up and asked if he and his friends wanted to buy marijuana.

Reid, who’s 21 and lives in Fremont, said he and his friends declined. But the offer – around 1 a.m. on February 24 – was just the beginning of an incident that was about to go terribly wrong.

One of the men who had approached pulled out a gun, put it to one of Reid’s friend’s neck, and said, “Give me everything you have right now,” said Reid.

Reid and his friends ran away, but the ground was slippery, and Reid, who said he was drunk and wearing sandals, slipped and fell into some bushes. As he tried to get up, one of the men grabbed Reid’s purse and demanded that Reid hand it over.

(Reid, who sometimes dresses in drag and goes by the name Jakara, was wearing sandals, black leather leggings, a black T-shirt, and a black leather jacket at the time of the incident).

“If I would have been sober, I would have just given him the purse,” said Reid, but “I was like, ‘Give me my fucking purse.’”

The man said, “Bitch, I’m not playing with you,” put the gun to Reid’s face, and shot him, said Reid.

“As soon as he shot me, it was total shock,” he said.

He said his ears rang and he couldn’t see anything, and he fell to the ground. Once he realized he’d been shot, he started screaming for help, he said. Blood came out of his mouth and he was spitting out teeth, he said.

“It hurt so bad it was numb,” in his jaw, nose, and the side of his face, said Reid.

He said both men ran off, dropping Reid’s purse. Soon after, a car zoomed around the corner and a man got out, grabbed the purse, and got back in the car, which quickly took off again.

Reid said that as he screamed for help, “One of the girls out there, I guess she heard me screaming. I saw her running in the middle of the street. She was like, ‘Sister, sister, Oh my God, what happened?’”

Police soon arrived, followed by an ambulance. Reid said that as he was placed inside the ambulance, he was in a great deal of pain and wanted to sleep.

“I was telling the ambulance people, ‘Just let me close my eyes. Let me go to sleep,’” Reid recalled. But they kept talking to him and wouldn’t let him drift off – “I guess they don’t want you to die,” he said.

He said he was hospitalized for five or six days. The bullet had pierced Reid’s throat, and then gone to his back, where it’s still lodged in his spine. He said hospital staff told him they couldn’t remove it.

“I’d end up paralyzed if something went wrong,” he said.

Romel Reid, in a photo from his Facebook page, survived a recent shooting in Oakland.

Reid, who also has a scar on his left cheekbone and numbness along his neck, acknowledged the unlikelihood of surviving such an incident.

“That bullet could’ve easily gone to my brain,” he said. “So many things could have been wrong. For me to just walk away from it ... I feel so blessed. It really is a miracle.”

Reid said he wouldn’t be able to recognize the two men who had approached him. He said they were dressed in black. The man with the gun had dreadlocks hanging out of a beanie, he said. He was also uncertain about the car. He’d thought it was silver, but the woman who had called the police told him it was gold, he said.

Oakland police spokeswoman Officer Holly Joshi said the only description she could offer was that one suspect was black and between 20 and 30 years old. She also said that nobody else was injured in the incident.

Cynthia P. Perkins, assistant to the director at the Oakland Police Department, said in an email on Tuesday, April 19, “There have been no arrests or developed leads in this case.”

Tiffany Woods, who works for TransVision, a program of Fremont’s Tri-City Health Center, has done outreach work in the area where Reid was shot. The area’s been known to be frequented by transgender sex workers.

Woods said the shooting wasn’t the first violent incident there. However, she said, what happened to Reid was “new,” and that the violence hadn’t previously “gotten down to that level.”▼

▼

Mayor’s race>>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 3

Rick Gerharter

City Attorney and mayoral candidate Dennis Herrera speaks with supporters at a recent campaign event.

Herrera’s record elicits mixed reactions

by Matthew S. Bajko

T

o many LGBT people, he is the man whose office led the successful drive to overturn California’s laws against same-sex marriage.

But now that City Attorney Dennis Herrera is running to be San Francisco’s next mayor, his challenge is to educate voters in the LGBT community (and the public at large) not only about his other successes in the public office he first won in 2001 but also why that makes him qualified to occupy Room 200 at City Hall.

Herrera, the city’s first Latino city attorney, and his deputy city attorneys have a long list of legal victories they have secured over the last decade.

Chief among them is the closure of the Potrero power plant; a multimillion dollar judgment against CitiApartments for violating tenants’ rights; a $4.5 million settlement with Office Depot for overcharges to the city; and defending the city’s groundbreaking Healthy San Francisco program from legal attacks.

“One great thing about being city attorney ... we are often a clearinghouse to bring people together to solve problems,” said Herrera at a campaign event last month.

At the same time Herrera has ruffled the feathers of various constituencies due to his stance on a number of issues. He upset progressives by securing the city’s first gang injunctions, and more recently, in supporting the tax break the city just extended to Twitter and other companies moving to the midMarket area.

Entertainment industry leaders have questioned his office’s targeting of what it considers “violenceplagued” nightclubs for closure. And he came under withering attack from immigration rights activists for the legal advice his office gave to former Mayor Gavin Newsom over the city’s sanctuary city policy.

At the recent candidate meet and greet aimed at LGBT voters, Herrera defended his pursuit of the gang injunctions.

“I took a lot of heat for instituting gang injunction programs in the Mission and Bayview. I was called all kinds of things in the press, from a racial cleanser to racial profiler.

Facts don’t lie ... crime is now down in those neighborhoods,” he said.

“Public safety is not a progressive or

conservative issue. Everyone deserves safe streets.”

As mayor, Herrera said his focus will be on jobs and city services.

“I want to make San Francisco a city that works,” he said. “I am running for mayor to make San Francisco a city that puts people to work and works to the best of its ability to make a difference in people’s lives each and every day.”

Supported by many LGBT progressive leaders over the years, from lesbian lawmaker Carole Migden, a close friend, to the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club, Herrera is now considered more of a moderate. That was evidenced by the entrance of Supervisor John Avalos into the mayor’s race this week, whom some pundits have labeled progressives’ “great hope” to elect one of their own this fall.

To Herrera’s longtime supporters, the attacks on his record from the left are puzzling. Former Milk Club president Jeff Sheehy, who served with Herrera on the Democratic County Central Committee, said had it not been for Herrera’s leadership on the marriage case, the marriage equality movement may not have advanced as far as it had.

“We would not have had the ‘Winter of Love.’ We wouldn’t be prosecuting this case like this were it not for a city attorney so determined to win our rights for us,” said Sheehy, referring to the marriages that took place in 2004.

Prior to the same-sex marriage fight, Sheehy said Herrera was instrumental in defending the city’s equal benefits ordinance. United Airlines had sued to overturn the rule that city contractors had to offer domestic partner benefits and donated money to an opponent of Herrera’s.

“When Dennis got elected it was the difference between whether we concluded equal benefits or not.

Dennis came in and finished the case,” said Sheehy.

It is his more recent actions that have troubled other LGBT community leaders. Terrrie Frye, a longtime Milk Club member, said Herrera lost her vote when he backed former Police Chief George Gascón being named district attorney.

“I am not supporting any candidates as of now, I am just too sick over SF politics in general, especially my own D6 supervisor’s actions,” stated Frye.▼

Nardoza memorial today

by Cynthia Laird

A

memorial will be held this afternoon for Peter Nardoza, the openly gay former official at San Francisco International Airport who died last month.

Friends, family, and colleagues will join at 5 p.m. today (Thursday, April 21) for a memorial service at San Francisco City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, in the North Light Court.

Mr. Nardoza died March 16 after a battle with cancer. He was 62.

During a career spanning three decades, Mr. Nardoza worked for Dianne Feinstein when she was mayor of San Francisco before moving to SFO, where he rose through the ranks to become the deputy airport director for public affairs. He retired from his job in 2002.

The memorial is open to the public.▼

<< Open Forum

4 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

Volume 41, Number 16 April 21-27, 2011 www.ebar.com PUBLISHER Thomas E. Horn Bob Ross (Founder, 1971 – 2003) NEWS EDITOR Cynthia Laird ARTS EDITOR Roberto Friedman ASSISTANT EDITORS Matthew S. Bajko Seth Hemmelgarn Jim Provenzano CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dan Aiello • Tavo Amador • Matt Baume Erin Blackwell • Roger Brigham Scott Brogan • Victoria A. Brownworth Philip Campbell • Heather Cassell Chuck Colbert • Richard Dodds Raymond Flournoy • David Guarino Liz Highleyman • Brandon Judell John F. Karr • Lisa Keen • Matthew Kennedy David Lamble Michael McDonagh Paul Parish • Lois Pearlman Tim Pfaff • Jim Piechota • Bob Roehr Donna Sachet • Adam Sandel • Jason Serinus Gregg Shapiro Gwendolyn Smith Ed Walsh • Sura Wood

ART DIRECTION Kurt Thomas PRODUCTION MANAGER T. Scott King PHOTOGRAPHERS Jane Philomen Cleland Marc Geller Rick Gerharter Lydia Gonzales Rudy K. Lawidjaja Steven Underhill Bill Wilson ILLUSTRATORS & CARTOONISTS Paul Berge Christine Smith

GENERAL MANAGER Michael M. Yamashita DISPLAY ADVERTISING Colleen Small Scott Wazlowski CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING David McBrayer

NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media – 212.242.6863

LEGAL COUNSEL Paul H. Melbostad

Best Bay Area Community Newspaper 2006 San Francisco Bay Area Publicity Club

BAY AREA REPORTER 395 Ninth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 415.861.5019 www.ebar.com

News Editor • news@ebar.com Arts Editor • arts@ebar.com Advertising • advertising@ebar.com Letters • letters@ebar.com A division of Benro Enterprises, Inc. © 2011 Published weekly. Bay Area Reporter reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement which the publisher believes is in poor taste or which advertises illegal items which might result in legal action against Bay Area Reporter. Ads will not be rejected solely on the basis of politics, philosophy, religion, race, age, or sexual orientation.

Advertising rates available upon request.

Our list of subscribers and advertisers is confidential and is not sold. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, and writers published herein is neither inferred nor implied. We are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork.

▼

House GOP lays an egg T

he Republican-controlled House of Representatives narrowly averted a government shutdown a couple weeks ago, while haggling over cuts to the federal budget and complaining that there weren’t more.

Yet this week, House leaders agreed to pay up to $500,000 – and up to $520 per hour in attorney time – to hire an outside law firm to defend the indefensible Defense of Marriage Act. House Speaker John Boehner and the rest of his leadership team won’t get to work on any sort of workable jobs bill for the American people, and are unlikely to schedule a vote on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would help LGBT people keep their jobs in states that currently offer no protections on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Yet last week, they found the time to sign a contract with King and Spalding, and firm partner Paul Clement, who just happens to be the former solicitor general who worked for President George W. Bush.

Ironically, while the team of lawyers leading the charge to defend DOMA includes three former Bush administration attorneys, the firm itself takes pride in its diversity and in hiring top LGBT talent. We have to wonder if gay law students will have second thoughts when approached by a recruiter from King and Spalding, and we hope those students research the firm’s cases. The House decided to defend DOMA after the Obama administration announced that it would no longer defend the law in several court cases. As the Human Rights Campaign notes on its website, had that decision not been made, the department would have had to argue in its briefs that gays and lesbians have not been subject to a history of discrimination and that sexual orientation is relevant to a person’s ability to contribute to society.

“The attorney general concluded that he could not make those arguments, that courts

should apply heightened scrutiny to laws (like Section 3 of DOMA) that discriminate based on sexual orientation, and that there was no defense of the law that could survive that more rigorous review,” HRC stated.

DOMA is a horrible law, and one that negatively affects samesex couples. It’s the reason same-sex couples had the agonizing task of filing their federal taxes this year as if they were married (splitting income as community property) but could not take advantage of filing jointly – if that would have been a better option for them. It’s the reason federal employees cannot add their same-sex spouse to their health insurance. It’s one of the reasons a gay foreign-born spouse cannot gain residency status but those in a heterosexual

marriage can. And on and on it goes. The federal government’s General Accounting Office did a study of existing law and enumerated more than 1,100 rights and privileges available to heterosexual married couples that are not available to same-sex couples.

House Republicans should be ashamed of themselves for wasting taxpayer money to defend a law that discriminates against LGBT Americans. The money spent defending DOMA is a drop in the bucket for the federal budget but could have paid for job training, unemployment benefits, help for seniors, or numerous other programs. We thought the GOP’s mantra is avoid “wasteful spending.”

Boehner apparently didn’t get the memo.▼

Building sustainable nonprofits

by Roger Doughty

I

n Part 1 of this piece, I raised some of the big questions facing the LGBT community about the future of our nonprofit organizations. Why do they matter, and what does it mean if they fail? I certainly don’t pretend to have all the answers, but here are some suggestions for how our community can begin to figure out those questions and build more sustainable organizations.

1. Support LGBT boards of directors Organizations are likely to be healthy only so long as their boards are capable. Volunteer board members deserve our appreciation – and our support.

Nobody is born knowing how to be an effective board member, but right now, just a handful of the people leading LGBT nonprofits get trained on topics like financial oversight, strategic planning, fundraising, and board roles and responsibilities. We have to invest in our community’s volunteer board members by helping them develop the skills they need.

2. Sharpen our picture of community needs and capacities We lack a clear, community-wide picture of community needs and organizational capacities. Because Horizons Foundation works with many groups, we know a fair amount about these. Other nonprofits and government agencies know a great deal about particular issues or populations. But nobody has a full picture.

A serious assessment would take time and money, and it wouldn’t be easy to keep the process from becoming politicized. But it would be an invaluable tool for individual organizations in their decision-making, for donors, foundations, and government agencies – and for thinking about our community’s future.

3. Help nonprofits explore partnerships and mergers Notwithstanding the optimistic hype they sometimes get, mergers aren’t the answer to everything. They’re difficult, complicated, and often backfire (just think about AOL-Time Warner or other famous disasters). They don’t always even end up saving money. But given

the hard realities at hand, it’s almost inevitable that closer partnerships and/or mergers will prove the best option – or even the only option – for some.

Our community can help in three ways.

One is to remove the stigma; a merger doesn’t mean that a group has failed. It more likely means that times have changed, and the best answer to a new situation – the best answer for the community – is a merger. Second, we can deepen connections among both the boards and executive directors of LGBT nonprofits so that working relationships and trust become stronger. And third, organizations considering mergers need access to expert advice and experience so they can explore, hammer out, and implement plans that work in the real world as well as on paper.

4. Increase LGBT giving We also simply have to look at the money side. Organizations can cut and cut – striking deeper and deeper into vital activities – but even that won’t be enough if we can’t boost the supply side of the equation.

We have little control over the collapse of public funding or the fall-offs in foundation endowments and grantmaking. But we do have control over our own giving.

We’ve got work to do – and vast potential.

Horizons’ research has shown that less than 5 percent of LGBT people in the Bay Area make financial contributions to local or national LGBT groups. Sadly, the just-released Movement Advancement Project report reinforces that lowly figure – they found that fewer than 3.4 percent of LGBT Americans gave to any one of the 39 major organizations surveyed.

Let’s be clear: this means that fewer than one in 20 LGBT people contribute financially to LGBT causes.

What if we could double the percentage of LGBT people giving to 10 percent? Or 15 percent or 25 percent? The money wouldn’t suddenly solve all nonprofits’ problems; it wouldn’t bring us freedom and equality overnight. But it would make us much more powerful; much more capable of winning (and safeguarding) our rights; much better able to ensure that LGBT young people, elders, people with HIV, and many, many more can get the

help they need and deserve. What’s more, it would allow our nonprofits to focus a bit more on their missions, and a bit less on scraping together next month’s rent.

And there’s more to giving than bolstering LGBT nonprofits financially – the act itself builds community. Once you’ve given, be it $25 or $25,000, your relationship to community changes. It deepens. You become connected in a different and powerful way – not just a member by association, but as a contributor, an actor, a leader in the movement. There are reasons that research shows that people who give are happier. (How we increase giving is a matter that requires its own articles, and merits much more discussion, research, and action than it’s received.)

5. Find a long-term answer Finally, we’ve got to think bigger, past today’s challenges and toward the long-term strength and sustainability of our movement.

I doubt there will ever come a day when nonprofits don’t have to fundraise. And that’s not all bad, since having to fundraise is one way that nonprofits stay accountable to the communities they serve.

What we need is a better way of fueling and funding our movement than scrambling to raise every dollar every year. That system leaves us profoundly vulnerable to economic fluctuations, or shifts in public policy, and we have little reserve capacity to respond to crises or take advantage of opportunities.

(Remember how difficult it was to raise early money against Prop 8? Or to pay for life-anddeath programs early in the HIV epidemic?)

It’s time we lay a financial foundation under the LGBT community. There’s a way to do it, too: by tapping into the staggering financial potential in bequests and other planned gifts.

One illustration: if we assume that LGBT people are roughly as wealthy as non-LGBT people, Horizons’ analyses show that we collectively hold more than $20 billion in Bay Area residential real estate alone. (That’s “billion” with a “b.”) Even 1 percent of that total, put into something like Horizons Foundation’s LGBT Community Endowment Fund, would yield a permanent fund exceeding $200 million to support LGBT needs year in and year out.

And that doesn’t even include other wealth that will be distributed through estates, like stocks, See page 17 >>

▼

Letters >>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 5

Country club needs better coffee

Where are the copy editors?

I live in the Castro, and I love having the Castro Country Club as a neighbor. Great folks and a wonderful model for queer social space and community space not based on intoxication and commercialism [“Sober space steps up fundraising to save its home,” April 14].

So here’s my suggestion: if you really want to keep the steps in the Castro, figure out how to sell better coffee, i.e.

Blue Bottle, Four Barrel, or Sightglass. Sound crazy? It isn’t, because the Castro actually is in dire need of good coffee. Despite at least a dozen coffee shops, it’s endlessly frustrating that one can’t get a decent FTO artisanal latte within a kilometer of 18th and Castro.

Philz may have creative names for its coffee, but what exactly is “anesthesia to the upside” anyway? And how much did the farmers have to suffer before spraying his beans with pesticides?

I bet if the Castro Country Club renovated the garage and turned it into a high-quality coffee stand, the line would be down the block ... and I’d be in it every day. Even better, after blowing my disposable wad and self-respect on hipster caffeine, the country club would still be there to help me quit.

Last week’s front-page article “HIV Study: 76% drop in cases with expanded care” [April 14] reports an important study with conclusions that many readers will find positive, encouraging, hopeful, and gratifying.

However, the page-one headline falsely presents the data as accomplished fact although the article is clear in the first paragraph and elsewhere that a 76 percent drop in cases is not fact but just one possible outcome. The headline needs a qualifier, such as “possible,” “potential,” “speculative,” “might,” “could,” “projected,” “anticipated,” “estimated,” or “foreseen.” Many word choices are available in the dictionary and thesaurus.

The article is thorough in explaining the encouraging news from the study data without implying that the results already are achieved. The B.A.R. does its readers a disservice in writing a headline that wrongly presents data as already accomplished when it is merely a result that may or may not happen in the future, according to computer modeling.

The headline writer and copy editors were asleep at the keyboard.

Jesse Sanford San Francisco

Historical society director responds Two recent letters to the Bay Area Reporter raised concerns about public access to the research collections of the GLBT Historical Society [Mailstrom April 7, March 24]. The archives were indeed closed for approximately two months recently due to remodeling of our downtown headquarters at 657 Mission Street in San Francisco following the opening of our new GLBT History Museum in the Castro. As is sometimes the case, the construction work took longer than anticipated.

The historical society archives have now reopened at our Mission Street location. Members may make appointments to use the collections Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Non-members may make appointments for Fridays. We use an appointment calendar so we can confirm that we will have space in our reading room and so our archivist can efficiently manage her time. Interested individuals also can use the archives without an appointment on the first and third Saturday of every month, 1 to 5 p.m.

The GLBT Historical Society’s research policies and hours are in keeping with those of similar institutions – and in some cases actually provide greater access. For instance, the library at the California Historical Society is open four hours a day Wednesday through Friday, and the archives and special collections of the UCSF Library, which house important HIV/AIDS-related materials, are open by appointment two weekdays per week.

Last year over 200 researchers used the archives, some for many weeks at a stretch. So far this year, dozens of researchers have already used the archives, and on many occasions the research room has been filled to capacity.

Within the limits of the space we have available, we accommodate all researchers on a first-come, first-serve basis; no academic qualifications or other credentials are required to use our collections.

The GLBT Historical Society looks to the community to sustain its mission of bringing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender history alive for LGBT people and the public as a whole. We invite you to take part by becoming a member or sponsor and by signing up to volunteer at the archives or the museum. For more information, visit our website at www.glbthistory.org or call (415) 777-5455. I also welcome members of the community to contact me directly at paul@glbthistory.org.

Paul Boneberg, Executive Director GLBT Historical Society San Francisco

Living humans need support before history I, too, was disturbed by a couple of recent letters, where the writers expressed issues with access to the GLBT Historical Society archives. I hoped and still hope that such issues are limited.

While I agree with last week’s letter that you titled, “Historical society needs more money,” [Mailstrom, April 14] that they need more contributions, the way the writer ended the letter distressed me far more. “And it needs to be lavishly supported, above all by the local community whose past it so lovingly preserves.”

On further review, the letter writer probably did not want to say that our community should give to the GLBT Historical Society before any of the other great organizations that focus their efforts on our community.

To me the LGBT Community Center gets my largest level of support, but I also support the Lavender Youth Recreation and Information Center, National Center for Lesbian Rights, and many other LGBT and non-LGBT focused charities, such as the SF Food Bank, before the historical society. Living breathing human beings need support above and beyond preserving our history (as important as that is).

Jim DiCarlo San Francisco

Carl Stein San Francisco

Single payer needed Many thanks to the B.A.R. for highlighting the barriers to insurance coverage and health disparities experienced by many in the LGBT communities [“Reform act benefits LGBTs,” and “Report cites health gaps,” April 7]. In California, one solution to some of the issues raised in these articles would be the adoption of a single payer health care system. Single payer is not socialized medicine, but a publicly financed health insurance system that provides full coverage for all Californians for less money. Independent analysis has confirmed this.

The big difference here is that providers are reimbursed from one trust fund financed by health care taxes that in most cases will be less than that currently paid by individuals and business. This system eliminates the high overhead costs and profit motives of private insurance companies. There would still be free choice of physicians and medical groups.

Many people don’t realize that the California Legislature twice sent a bill creating a single payer system to former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger only to be vetoed on both attempts. This legislation, originally introduced by former state Senator Sheila Kuehl, has been reintroduced by state Senator Mark Leno as SB 810.

I would encourage the LGBT communities to look into this innovative piece of legislation and let their elected officials know how they feel.

Lewis Fannon UCSF Nursing Student San Francisco

Beautiful tribute to Taylor The B.A.R. is to be commended for publishing critic Tavo Amador’s excellent, heart-felt tribute to Elizabeth Taylor [“The last star: an appreciation of Elizabeth Taylor,” April 7]. I applaud and echo it. As a merchant and resident of this neighborhood for over 30 years, I looked to our community to take off its collective hat and lower its head in prayer and gratitude to her; she who put her good name and career on the line, risking it all to stand up for us when the AIDS crisis was at its worst. How improbable it was that she alone of all the world-famous, brilliant, beautiful, shining movie goddesses, would feel the urgent need to see our people receive medical care and compassion when most all of America had turned its back on our sick and dying brothers, lovers, and friends.

Once she started, she became unstoppable. She raised hundreds of millions of dollars on our behalf, was a principal in founding the American Foundation for AIDS Research, and, as a spokeswoman listened to by the entire world when she spoke out, turned the tide of disregard and silence into many thousands of uplifted voices instead, demanding attention and action. She made caring about people infected with the virus respectable, and all those unfortunate cases, visible as cases no longer but as human beings once again, worthy of love. She never stopped fighting for national and international funding for research and treatment of those who needed it. Her efforts helped to save hundreds of thousands of lives in those years and in the future as a result of the advances made from the funds she provided as well as international focus she brought to the epidemic.

Having lived in the Castro through those terrible years, I felt compelled to try to get the rainbow flag lowered the morning she died. If not for Elizabeth then who? I was rebuffed. To his great credit, Tavo Amador was the lone personal voice in our media to sing her praise. Others will hold tributes, the larger press has memorialized her great goodness as well as her star power, but this tribute made it clear as daylight that, to her great credit, the toughest choices she made along the way were on behalf of others. It underscores how forever in her debt the gay community is. Our lives are infinitely better for her devotion to us all and Mr. Amador made us, as readers, see it with eyes wide open.

Bravo, Tavo.

Isak Lindenauer San Francisco

www.ebar.com

<< Commentary

6 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

▼

Five thousand years

by Gwendolyn Ann Smith n a suburb of what is now Prague, some five thousand years ago, a body was buried. Funeral rites were a very big deal at the time, with a great deal of symbolism attached to exactly how a body was positioned for burial, and what items would be interred with them.

If one was male, the body was buried lying on their right side, with the head facing west. You would also be buried with various tools and weapons, as well as a few portions of food to tide you over as you headed to whatever passed for the afterlife.

Females had their own specifics, being placed on their left side, and facing east. They would be buried with necklaces of bone and earrings of copper, with pots and jugs they may have used in domestic tasks. An egg-shaped pot would also be placed somewhere near the body’s feet.

But this particular burial was different. The body – determined to be male by archeologist Kate ina Semrádová – was buried facing east, and on its left side. No weapons were found with the body, but the various household pots – including the egg-shaped jug associated with the burial of females – were present.

The new media jumped on this story, labeling this the body of a “gay caveman.”

Some of the better news sources went a step further declaring this to be a transgender person. Some called it the oldest of its kind, though Semrádová hastened to add that there were earlier examples of male Siberian shamans buried in a similar fashion, and one Mesolithic period female warrior buried in fashion befitting males of the time.

Ultimately, we can only speculate why this male body was buried in a fashion befitting females of the time. I know what I would hope for, and it is what Semrádová theorized, “We believe this is one of the earliest cases of what could be described as a transvestite or third-gender grave in the Czech Republic.”

So five millennia ago, a gender variant person lived along the trade routes around the future city of Prague. The society – whose peoples clearly did divide gender and gender roles in fashions that still resonate today – nevertheless was able to respect this person’s identity and expression even after their death.

That was then.

Not long after this story had begun to fade in the ever-churning media cycle, a manufactured outrage

Christine Smith

I

brewed over an advertisement for the J. Crew apparel line. In the current catalog from the company, J. Crew president and creative director Jenna Lyons is pictured with her 5-year-old son, Beckett. In the image, Beckett sports freshly painted toenails, in a bright pink. A quote next to the picture reads, “Lucky for me I ended up with a boy whose favorite color is pink. Toenail painting is way more fun in neon.”

Certainly, J. Crew knew the image and quote would spark outrage, and many of the usual suspects took the bait, with Erin Brown of the conservative Media Research Center accusing J. Crew of exploiting young Beckett as part of “liberal, transgendered identity politics.”

All over painted toenails.

Others join these stories, such as a legislative failure in Maryland.

The proposed law, HB 235, was a transgender rights bill that had public accommodations rights stripped away, then attempted to strip away employment protections and limit other language before the bill was sent back to committee – killing it for this legislative session. Meanwhile in Maine, LD 1046 seeks to strip away already existing transgender protections.

At the same time as the news was reporting on cavemen and pink toenails, as politicians played games with the rights of people such as myself, a 20-year-old transgender woman was verbally harassed and beaten by two men in San Francisco, at the 16th Street BART station in the Mission. According to eyewitness Alexandra Byerly, one of the attackers said, “Oh, I hate men dressed up as women,” or words to that effect. The victim, who goes by the name Mia Tu

Mutch, is recovering from the attack.

This is now.

Five thousand years ago, in a time when humanity was still writing on clay tablets and Stonehenge was yet to be erected, early humans had the ability to accept a male-bodied person as a female on one level or another. Accepted enough to have been buried in a fashion similar to other females, and with the trappings of a woman in that society.

More modern history is rife with stories of people who crossed gender and were – on one level or another – accepted. In the history of the world we have kings, popes, and other leaders who were cross-gendered. We have third-gender subcultures among most world societies, stretching from the Gallae of ancient Phrygia to the modern day Hijira of India.

In spite of such a rich history – now seemingly stretching back over five thousand years – we now live in a time when the very image of a boy with pink toenails is somehow a nefarious plot to overthrow gender norms, and where politicians will seek to disallow transgender people from enjoying the same rights and protections of the rest of society.

In what would one day be Prague, in the distant past, we see more humanity for one person’s gender expression than we see in what many view as the most liberal, most LGBT friendly city in the United States.

Is this what we’ve become? If this is now, what’s to come – and how can we get back to a time of acceptance for one’s own gender identity and expression? I hope it does not take another five thousand years to get there.▼ Gwen Smith opted to not write this column on clay tablets. You can find her on the web at www. gwensmith.com.

Jane Philomen Cleland

NBJC leader visits Bay Area

S

haron Lettman, right, executive director of the National Black Justice Coalition, was in the Bay Area this week and was welcomed by board chair Darryl Moore, left, at a reception in Berkeley Tuesday, April 19. Moore,

a Berkeley City Council member, joined the organization’s board last year. The NBJC is the nation’s leading black LGBT civil rights organization focused on federal public policy. For more information, visit www.nbjc.org.

▼

Politics >>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 7

Former ethics commissioner expresses regrets

by Matthew S. Bajko

ago – Gray was terminated from his job in September 2008. He in turn filed a worker’s compensation complaint alleging his firing was retaliation for his earlier litigation.

The case is scheduled to be heard this June.

In an email to the B.A.R. this week, Gray wrote that he is running for sheriff in order “to change attitude of documented homophobia that exists in dept and better serve our community.”

H

aving recently finished a sixyear term on the city’s Ethics Commission, Eileen Hansen regrets that she was unable to accomplish more in reforming how money influences local politics.

Hansen, 59, an out lesbian who is a nonprofit coach and consultant, was appointed to the five-person oversight body as the Board of Supervisors’ pick in 2005. Her selection was opposed by the San Francisco Chronicle, which in an editorial at the time denounced her nomination as being a “power-play by the board’s progressive political wing.”

Yet during her tenure Hansen routinely found herself casting the sole dissenting vote. The other four commissioners are each appointed by the city attorney, the mayor, the district attorney, and the assessor.

“I have mixed feelings about the six years. I wish that I could have accomplished more. I much too often was in a 4-1 vote where I was the one vote, that was frustrating and disappointing,” said Hansen during a recent interview with the Bay Area Reporter. “I could not always put together three votes to be able to accomplish something I thought was important or to stop something I thought needed to be stopped.”

Her biggest disappointments, said Hansen, was in not being able to block the commission’s softening of the city’s lobbyist, campaign consultant, and campaign finance reform ordinances.

“All three were weakened instead of strengthened,” said Hansen, who was recently honored by the current Board of Supervisors during Women’s History Month.

She also said little has been done to regulate the amount of independent expenditures spent on local races.

And with the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision allowing companies to spend unlimited amounts on political campaigns, Hansen said there doesn’t appear to be much of an appetite locally to regulate such spending and corporate lobbying.

“I am very concerned we can’t get a handle on independent expenditures. It is appalling to me the amount of money we spend on campaigns,” said Hansen. “The way money is flowing into campaigns now is really out of control and that is not okay to me. But the response is we can’t do anything about that because our hands are tied because of the direction the federal courts have taken.”

Hansen demurred when asked if she would have supported the commission’s recent unanimous vote to grant interim Mayor Ed Lee an exemption to a city rule that otherwise bars him for a year from returning to his old job as city administrator once his term as mayor expires.

Lee has said he does not intend to seek a full-term as mayor and prefers to be given his old job back. With several supervisors and fellow city officials running to be mayor, it was expected that Lee would be given the waiver.

Dufty hires campaign manager Rick Gerharter

Former Ethics Commissioner Eileen Hansen

“I haven’t really given it any thought. I haven’t looked at the law and whether it is an appropriate thing to do or not,” she said. “Because I knew I wasn’t going to vote on it, I didn’t look at it.”

As for her own days as a political candidate, Hansen said they are over.

S h e twice ran unsuccessfully for supervisor in District 8, where she still lives with her partner of 28 years, Denise Wells.

“I don’t have any plans to run for office,” she said. “I feel many other folks are considering that route. I am not considering that at the moment.”

Gay former deputy enters sheriff’s race Jon Gray, 47, an openly gay former sheriff’s deputy who endured antigay harassment by fellow officers who posted homophobic comments on an unofficial website, has pulled papers to run for sheriff this fall.

After three decades as the city’s sheriff, Michael Hennessey announced earlier this year that he had decided to retire when his current term ends. So far the candidate with the highest name recognition in the race is District 5 Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi.

A decade ago Gray was the subject of anti-gay comments coworkers posted online outside of work. He sued the city and the sheriff’s department, and in 2007, won a $50,000 ruling from an administrative law judge overseeing the matter.

He was less successful in his legal battle against the city’s fire department in a case where he alleged its entrance exam included several anti-gay questions meant to weed out gay applicants. His attempts to force the company that created the test to disclose it failed, and a judge eventually dismissed the lawsuit.

A longtime critic of Hennessey – he opposed his re-election four years

On the web Online content this week includes the Wocker’s World column. Also, check out the blog section for the latest developments on the Eagle Tavern. www.ebar.com.

Out mayoral candidate Bevan Dufty welcomed a new campaign manager this week, David Feighan. The 32-year-old political consultant last spring served as the campaign manager for Sonoma Councilwoman Joanne Sanders, who lost her state Senate primary bid against former Assemblywoman Noreen Evans (D).

Feighan’s father, Edward Feighan, represented the Cleveland area in the United States House of Representatives from 1983 to 1993.

The elder Feighan came out as gay after leaving Congress.

He currently sits on the board of the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, which gave Dufty an early endorsement in the mayoral race.

Correction Last week’s column misstated the starting time for a May 21 Cruisin’ the Castro Walking Tour that will raise funds for the Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy. It will begin that Saturday at 10 a.m. The online version has been corrected.▼

Web Extra: For more queer political news, be sure to check www.ebar.com Monday mornings around 10 a.m. for Political Notes, the notebook’s online companion. This week’s column reports on the District 8 Town Hall with Mayor Ed Lee and Supervisor Scott Wiener.

<< Community News

8 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

▼

Easter events sure to put spring in your step compiled by Cynthia Laird

T

his Easter weekend will see plenty of events in San Francisco and around the Bay Area, from the spiritual to playful, for adults and kids.

Friday, April 22 is Good Friday and San Francisco Network Ministries and Temenos Catholic Worker will have the Tenderloin Stations of the Cross, an ecumenical gathering remembering the crucifixion of Jesus in today’s contemporary society. It will take place from noon to 2 p.m. in front

of San Francisco City Hall (Polk Street side).

In the Castro, Metropolitan Community Church-San Francisco will have a Stations of the Cross from noon to 12:45 p.m. on Good Friday at 150 Eureka Street. MCCSF will also have an evening service at 7.

In the East Bay, New Spirit Community Church begins its Holy Week services with Maundy Thursday tonight (Thursday, April 21) at 7 at its chapel on the campus of the Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Avenue in Berkeley.

New Spirit, a gay and straight together congregation affiliated with PSR, MCC, United Church of Christ, and the Disciples of Christ, will also have Good Friday and Holy Saturday services, both at 7 p.m.

On Saturday, take the kids to Sharon Meadow in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park for the Spring Eggstravaganza. This fun event, sponsored by the Recreation and Parks Department and the San Francisco Parks Trust, takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $5 per person. Events include egg hunts, carnival rides, giant inflatables, arts and crafts, and food for sale. (This is a new location for the event.)

Easter Sunday will see the annual Tenderloin Tessie holiday dinner from 1 to 4 p.m. at First Unitarian Church, 1187 Franklin Street at Geary in San Francisco.

The event is open to those in need and those who do not wish to spend the day alone. For volunteer opportunities, call Michael Gagne, board president, at (415) 5843252.

Religious services on Sunday catering to the LGBT community include MCC-San Francisco which holds services at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. (www.mccsf.org); Peninsula MCC, with its service at 12:30 p.m. at College Heights Church, 1150 West Hillsdale Boulevard in San Mateo (www.peninsulamcc.org); MCCSan Jose (www.mccsj.org), which meets at Grace Baptist Church, 484 East San Fernando Street at 10 a.m.; and New Spirit Community Church in Berkeley (www.newspiritchurch. org) , which has services at 11 a.m.

Unity Center, 2222 Bush Street (at Fillmore) in San Francisco, is a

vibrant and inclusive spiritual community that will hold its Easter services at 10 a.m. (www.unitysf.com).

Finally, it wouldn’t be Easter Sunday in San Francisco without the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence’s annual party in Dolores Park. The event starts with an egg hunt for kids at 11 a.m. and continues until 4 p.m. Live performances will feature Penetrating the Veil, Planet Booty, Ejector and much more. There will also be the infamous Hunky Jesus and Easter Bonnet contests.

San Mateo gay teen chosen as prom queen Out gay Aragon High School senior Jason Galisatus was crowned prom queen last week, on the eve of this weekend’s Bay Area Youth Summit that he has organized.

Galisatus, 17, is well-known at his school, where he has led the gay-straight alliance club for the past three years.

“I had several reasons why I decided to run in the first place,” Galisatus said in a statement.

“First I wanted to show people that I could run. Another reason is I wanted to send a message out to all the little gay boys out there that if they want to be king, queen, prince, or princess, they can be whoever they want to be.”

The youth summit takes place Saturday, April 23 from noon to 8 p.m. at Aragon, 900 Alameda de las Pulgas. For more information, visit www.bayareayouthsummit.org.

Pink triangle benefit The Castro Lions Club will hold a beer bust at the Eagle Tavern, 398 12th Street in San Francisco, from 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 24.

After checking out the Sisters’ Easter party, revealers are then invited to the Eagle. Patrick Carney with the pink triangle, which is installed every Pride weekend on Twin Peaks, said the goal is to raise $2,000 at Sunday’s event, and another $2,000 at a May 14 benefit at Trigger hosted by the Grand Ducal Council.

Benefit for East Bay AIDS group There will be a benefit in San Francisco next week for the Flowers Heritage Foundation, an Oaklandbased nonprofit dedicated to identifying and addressing unmet needs in health care services that works with community-based and AIDS service organizations.

The foundation’s April in Paris gala will take place Thursday, April 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bently Reserve, 301 Battery Street.

This year’s fundraiser will honor the Downtown Youth Clinic at the East Bay AIDS Center and the winners of the “Don’t Turn Your Back on AIDS” high school art competition.

Tickets are $150 and are available online at www.flowersheritagefoun-

dation.org.

Report-back from CROI Researchers will hold a public report-back forum on the recent Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections Wednesday, April 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the San Francisco Friends (Quaker) meeting house, 65 9th Street (near Mission). Information will be provided on HIV and hepatitis C treatment, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), organ disease, and other conditions.

Scheduled speakers include Dr. Annie Luetkemeyer of the UCSF Positive Health program and Alan McCord of Project Inform.

Refreshments will be provided; the venue is accessible. For more information, call (415) 575-0150.

NLGJA accepting applicants for student program The National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association is now accepting applications for a college student mentorship and training program that it is holding at its annual convention in Philadelphia in late August.

The program provides real-world experience to undergraduate and graduate students who are considering a career in journalism. To apply, students need to fill out an application, attaching the requested items, found online at www.nlgja.org. The deadline to submit the materials is June 10.

NLGJA will pay for the selected students’ convention attendance, airfare, food, and hotel at the convention site. Applicants do not need to be a member of NLGJA or a member of the LGBT community.

NLGJA accepts applicants from all mediums and university departments and majors.

It Gets Indie concert Sunday Following on the widely popular It Gets Better campaign to bring attention to anti-gay bullying, a local teen has organized the It Gets Indie concert that will benefit the Trevor Project and the It Gets Better Project.

The concert takes place Sunday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m. at the Great American Music Hall, 859 O’Farrell Street in San Francisco.

Eighth grader Noah Hornik, a student at a Hillsborough school, is organizing the event in response to the spate of teens dying by suicide last year.

Trevor Project spokeswoman Laura McGinnis said the organization is appreciative of the benefit.

“The Trevor Project is proud to be chosen by Noah is a beneficiary...,” said David McFarland, interim executive director. “We were blown away by his Kickstarter video, and the event has grown beyond expectation.”

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.gamhtickets.com.▼

▼

The Castro>>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 9

Jane Warner Plaza awaits its plaque

by Matthew S. Bajko

F

ive months after city officials dedicated Jane Warner Plaza, the Castro pedestrian parklet is still awaiting a plaque to inform the public of its proper name.

The outdoor seating area at the corner of 17th and Castro streets was renamed in honor of Warner, a Patrol Special police officer whose beat included the city’s gayborhood.

Warner died nearly a year ago on May 8 after a battle with ovarian cancer.

An out lesbian and a gifted piano player, Warner was beloved by both the public and the merchants who hired her to provide additional security services in the Castro.

A groundswell of support for renaming the 17th Street Pedestrian Plaza in her memory quickly emerged following Warner’s death.

With backing from local groups, the Board of Supervisors adopted the renaming proposal last fall. The public dedication ceremony took place Sunday, November 7 on what would have been Warner’s 54th birthday.

At the event a mockup of a plaque with a brief explanation of Warner’s achievements was unveiled. It was then quietly removed with the expectation that a permanent plaque would be installed.

Recently Warner’s friends have been trying to determine when the signage will arrive.

“I don’t think it will ever be called Jane Warner Plaza as long as there is no plaque there identifying it as such,” said Castro business owner Patrick Batt, a past president of the Merchants of Upper Market and Castro. “To me it is very important because it is recognition that she deserves.”

According to a press release dated November 17 sent out by the Patrol Special Police Officers Association, the group established the “Officer Jane Warner Memorial Fund” through the San Francisco Police Credit Union for the purpose of raising money to pay for the plaque. But the notice received little attention at the time, and a dispute between the patrol specials and the police department over the program’s future has monopolized the association’s attention this year.

“We are actively seeking and reminding people to help pay for

Rick Gerharter

Dawn Warner looked at the proposed plaque for her wife, Special Patrol Officer Jane Warner, at the dedication ceremony last November.

this thing so we can memorialize Jane Warner the right way,” Alan Byard, president of the association, told the Bay Area Reporter this week.

Byard said the plaque is estimated to cost at least $3,000 and, so far, roughly $2,000 has been raised. He said he intended to check with city officials to see what the status is on the plaque’s creation.

“I am going to be making inquiries to figure out when exactly it is going to be done,” said Byard. “It should be a fitting memorial.”

Batt said this week he was unaware of the fundraising drive initiated by the Patrol Special Police Officers Association. He said he had contacted both the current leadership of MUMC and the Castro’s Community Benefit District to ask if either was involved with the production of the plaque.

MUMC President Steve Adams told the B.A.R. that the business group never promised to pay for the plaque or offer to ensure its arrival.

“It is my understanding it is under the CBD. We are not part of the plaza; it was a CBD project to begin with,” said Adams. “I don’t know anything about the plaque.”

Andrea Aiello, the CBD’s executive director, said this week her organization was not responsible for it and that it was her belief that former District 8 Supervisor Bevan Dufty was overseeing the fundraising effort.

“My understanding is that Supervisor Dufty was going to privately fundraise for it,” she said.

Dufty championed the naming of the plaza after Warner in his capacity as supervisor and handled the creation of the plaque mockup for the ceremony last fall. But he said it was always his understanding that the Patrol Special Police Officers Association would be responsible for paying for the actual plaque.

After being contacted about its status by the B.A.R. this week, Dufty called Byard and offered his help with completing the fundraising and pledged his own donation.

“I called him and told him, ‘I am responsible. I should have reached out to you and done some things.’

I appreciate the patrol specials for keeping the focus on it,” said Dufty, who is now a mayoral candidate.

“Certainly, people want to see the plaque go up.”

The hope is a permanent plaque will be installed sometime before Pride weekend in June.

Anyone wishing to donate to the fund can drop off donations to the credit union branch located at 2550 Irving Street. They can also be mailed to the SF Police Credit Union, P.O. Box 22219, San Francisco, California 94122-0219.

Checks should be made payable to the “Officer Jane Warner Memorial Fund.”▼ Full disclosure: Warner was a contributing columnist for the B.A.R. and penned the paper’s crime column. Matthew S. Bajko wrote the text for the plaque mockup.

Pay to pee on Pink Saturday

by Seth Hemmelgarn

T

he Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence plan to charge people $1 apiece to use about half of the portable toilets at this June’s Pink Saturday festivities, a city document says.

Forty of the 91 toilets to be included at the party will be “a little nicer” and cost $1 to use, according to an Interdepartmental Staff Committee on Traffic and Transportation summary attached to the Sisters’ street closure application for the party.

Last Thursday, the city board approved the closures for the June 25 event, which takes place in the Castro. City staff provided the documents to the Bay Area Reporter.

The pay toilets will be from a company called Flush for a Cause.

Proceeds will go to the Sisters, the summary says.

The Sisters’ application says they’re expecting 45,000 people this year. The event is free, though donations are typically encouraged.

Steven Underhill

A group of young men enjoyed themselves at Pink Saturday 2008.

No alcohol will be permitted, according to the application.

Sister Risque, who represented the charitable group at the April 14 meeting, didn’t want to talk about Pink Saturday afterward, citing the

city’s desire for the Sisters not to publicize the party. The ISCOTT summary says one of the permit conditions has been that there be “no advertising of the Non-Event prior to the event date.”

After the meeting, Sister Risque asked the B.A.R. not to write about Pink Saturday, and he hasn’t responded to interview requests since then.

Pink Saturday occurs on the eve of the city’s LGBT Pride Parade and festival. The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee has been working to pay off $225,000 in debt, so it probably could use some extra revenue.

But asked about the idea of charging people to use portable toilets at the Pride event Brendan Behan, who was named Pride’s interim executive director just last week, didn’t give it a thumbs up.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a big priority for us to be mulling around,” he said.

He also said, “There are a lot of See page 17 >>

10 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 11

12 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 13

<< The Sports Page

14 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

▼

If it looks like bigotry and sounds like bigotry...

by Roger Brigham

A

ccidental foibles often say as much about us as our intentional acts. When faux pas occur, we need not overreact – but we should not ignore them or simply chalk them up as “just” aberrations.

Thus in the span of one week this month Kobe Bryant and Tara Sullivan found the media spotlight sweeping over them: Sullivan at the close of the Masters gold tournament she was covering as a reporter, Bryant during a Los Angeles Lakers game against the San Antonio Spurs on the eve of the National Basketball

Association playoffs. The reactions have been more illuminating than the moments themselves.

We begin with Bryant because, well, because he is arguably the current face of the NBA. Distraught with an official, Bryant referred to the gentleman on national television with an alliterative homophobic phrase that rhymes with “mucking maggot.”

In predictable order, television apologists – err, I mean, analysts – began parsing

Bryant’s words to minimize the damage, gay rights groups raised their hackles, Bryant issued a nonapology apology, the NBA announced a $100,000 fine against the player (which he says he will appeal), and the Human Rights Campaign said it accepted Bryant’s apology and would work with him to raise sensitivity. Move along folks, we are told, nothing to see here.

Not so fast.

Let’s start with the studio “analysis” provided on ESPN almost immediately after the incident.

Commentator Ric Bucher said punishing Bryant for the slur was “a slippery slope because this happens all the time.” And by that he does not mean that it is frequently broadcast on national television, but that players routinely say it.

(By the by, if you do a Google search for “Kobe Bryant Ric Bucher ESPN,” you’ll find a pretty slick YouTube video of Bryant wiping snot on Bucher. Hilarious.)

Ahhh, but then Bucher goes further and tells us why it is wrong to object to the phrase. “They refer to it as a homophobic slur,” he said, “but I believe it was just meant to be derisive.”

To quote Scooby-Doo: “Huh?” As in not homophobic (mocking, jeering, contemptuous, and politically incorrect), just derisive (mocking, jeering, contemptuous but politically correct)?

Bryant, of course, is a master of the Teflon apology. In having a sexual assault case against him dropped and settling with the woman who accused him of raping her several years back, his mea culpa was, “Although I truly believe this encounter between us

<<

Lakers star Kobe Bryant has apologized for his “fucking faggot” slur hurled at a referee during a game last week.

was consensual, I recognize now that she did not and does not view this incident the same way I did.”

Translation: I did nothing wrong but I will pay you to go away and say we agree to disagree. This go round, he said he was sorry “if I offended anyone.” In a later written apology, he said, “The words expressed do not reflect my feelings toward the gay and lesbian communities and were not meant to offend anyone.”

Hold on to that thought for a moment. Let’s turn to the Masters tournament a few days earlier.

Sullivan, a journalist from New Jersey, was walking with her fellow reporters as the golfer they were interviewing headed into the dressing room. The other reporters were allowed in, but an unidentified female security guard barred Sullivan, saying club policy did not allow women reporters in.

No national camera caught it, but this being the instant information age, Sullivan tweeted her plight on Twitter: “Bad enough no women members at Augusta. But not

allowing me to join writers in locker room interview is just wrong.”

Fellow reporters shared their notes with Sullivan after the incident, club officials apologized, saying the security guard was incorrect and that was not club policy, and say, isn’t that green jacket lovely. Move along please, nothing to see here.

Again, not so fast.

The inappropriate action in Augusta and the inappropriate language in Los Angeles did not occur in a vacuum. They were not virgin births spontaneously summoned up from nothingness: they are artifacts of institutionally tolerated or mandated prejudice.

The barring of female members is a fiercely defended policy at Augusta; the accidental barring of one female reporter was predictable collateral damage of that policy.

NBA Commissioner David Stern says there is no room in the NBA for such language as Bryant used, but “fucking faggot” is a favored and frequently used invective: institutionally tolerated on the bench, in the locker room, on the practice floor and on plane rides, and enabled by fellow practitioners and apathists.

“Just” a mistake by a security guard who used the first policy she could think of. “Just” an excitable utterance in the heat of the game that was the first thing that occurred to a player to say. Nothing “just” about them.

We cannot excuse one because it is so rare and the other because it is so common.

When you reach into the toolbox and the first thing you grab is a useless piece of crap good for nothing, you should throw it away – not put it back. Time for the NBA and the Masters to clean out their toolboxes and clean up their behavior.

And not just for the cameras.▼

CA schools From page 1

students and parents, the six-year-old task force recently emailed teachers a notification that it had assembled a set of educational materials about Milk recommended for grades 4-12.

For now it is up to individual teachers to decide if they want to use them.

“These materials are available upon request to SCUSD teachers that wish to review and/or use them,” wrote Shweky, who used to work at Washington High School in San Francisco.

In an interview with the Bay Area Reporter, Shweky said the district faced no opposition in its decision to encourage teachers to observe the second Milk Day observance this year.

“Right now we have had a great deal of support from every level of the school community here, from administrators to community members to board members,” he said. “We have not had any complaints from parents. That is not to say we won’t as we roll it out. To date we haven’t had anything but unequivocal support.”

The idea is to use Milk’s story, from his organizing of LGBT people in San Francisco’s Castro District in the mid-1970s to his electoral victory in 1977, as an inroad to discussing the broader LGBT community, said

Correction The April 14 article, “HIV study: 76% drop in cases with expanded care,” misidentified the journal in which it was published April 15. It is Clinical Infectious Diseases.

The online version has been corrected.

Charles Peer/Outword

Students from around the state gathered at the state Capitol earlier this month for Queer Youth Advocacy Day, where they rallied for the anti-gay bullying bill and the FAIR Act, among other activities.

Shweky.

“It really is about appreciating diversity,” he said.

One of the two books the school has purchased for teachers to use is In Celebration of Harvey Milk, a workbook about the gay rights leader written by Angela F. Luna.

A lesbian and fourth grade teacher at San Juan Unified School District in Sacramento County, Luna selfpublished the book in January.

She had been looking for materials to use last year to educate her students about Milk and discovered the picture book The Harvey Milk Story

by Kari Krakow. She then created her workbook so students could delve deeper into the subject and make their own comparisons between Milk and other historical leaders.

“I think that he definitely made long-lasting contributions to their state, and in the fourth grade we learn about California history. He is part of

California history so it ties into the curriculum,” explained Luna of why she wanted to incorporate a Milk lesson into her teaching. “If we are teaching about the whole community to the child, as we should be, we are teaching them about everybody, not just groups that are sanctioned by the powers that be. Everyone needs to be validated.”

Last year, Luna believes she was the only teacher to discuss Milk at her school. And she only was allowed to do so after she agreed to her thenprincipal’s demand that she send home permission slips to the parents of her students.

“I had last year, remarkably, only 22 students. Eight parents opted out,” recalled Luna, who only came out to her school last year.

This year the school has a new principal, and Luna said it was unclear if she would once again need See page 16 >>

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 15

<< Community News

16 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 21-27, 2011

<<

CA schools From page 14

to send home permission slips before teaching about Milk. She does expect other teachers will be talking about Milk to their classes.

“Last year, I was the only one to use the material. This year more people are using them,” said Luna.

FAIR Act The Milk lesson plans could be a primer for other school districts to turn to if Governor Jerry Brown signs into law this year a bill that would require all of the state’s public schools to teach about historical LGBT figures.

State Senators last Thursday, April 14 passed by a 23-14 vote SB 48, the Fair, Accurate, Inclusive, and Respectful Education Act, authored

<<

DOMA

From page 1

hour in non-attorney time associated with the litigation, plus “all reasonable expenses.” The contract also calls for the outside law firm to promise not to discriminate on the basis of “race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or any other prohibited basis, and shall comply with all applicable employment laws.”

The legal team specified by the agreement includes only former officials in the administration of President George W. Bush: Paul Clement, Daryl Joseffer, and Jeffrey Bucholtz.

Clement served as U.S. solicitor general under Bush and was a clerk for Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Joseffer served under Clement in the Solicitor General’s office and has worked with him on a number of cases since joining the firm in 2009.

Bucholtz served as acting assistant U.S. attorney general in the civil division.

<<

Grand marshals From page 1

known. That surpassed the pervious high count by more than 500 ballots cast. The grand marshal program was largely on hiatus last year.

Winners were selected as the result of the combined votes of Pride’s general membership, board of directors, electoral college, and the community at large.

Community grand marshals The biggest category is individual community grand marshals.

Aaron Belkin, 45, is probably best known for his work to dismantle the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” ban on gays serving openly in the military. He’s the director of the Palm Center at UC Santa Barbara and an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State.

In December, President Barack Obama signed a bill to repeal DADT. “As a community we just won one of the greatest civil rights battles in our history,” said Belkin, who is gay. He said the first soldier was “drummed out of the Continental Army in 1778, so we have had a 233year march toward equality.” He also acknowledged, there’s “a great deal more work to be done, but said, “This is a moment to take pride in that, and celebrate that victory.”

There’s also been progress on other fronts in the past year.

In November, Victoria Kolakowski, 49, was elected to serve as a judge on the Alameda County Superior Court, making her the first openly transgender trial judge in the nation.

Kolakowski, who’s married to Bay Area Reporter news editor Cynthia Laird, said, “One of the reasons why I feel it’s important for me to do this sort of thing” – serving as grand marshal – “is so people can see me.”

She added that perhaps “a young transgender person will hear about

by out Senator Mark Leno (D-San vetoed the bill. In a recent interview gay Assemblyman Tom Ammiano Francisco). Known as the FAIR Act, with the B.A.R. Leno expressed hope (D-San Francisco). Known as Seth’s it requires schools to teach about his legislation would meet a different Law, it is aimed at addressing anti-gay the LGBT community’s historic fate now that Brown is in office. bullying on school campuses. contributions in social science “We will get that to the governor’s In addition to strengthening classes. school policies to The bill would also safeguard students, Leno add sexual orientation said it is just as important and gender identity to educate them about to the state’s existing not only LGBT people’s anti-discrimination achievements but also the protections that prohibit struggles they have had to bias in school activities, overcome. instruction and “It really addresses instructional materials. the tragic bullying and –State Senator Mark Leno The bill is co-sponsored resulting suicides ...

by Equality California if students were to be and Gay-Straight better informed that our Alliance Network and now must be desk. I am hopeful he will see the past struggle over many decades is passed by the Assembly. wisdom of it,” said Leno. a civil rights movement,” said Leno.

Similar legislation passed He said he sees the bill as a “I think they will have an inherent the Legislature before but thencompanion measure to AB 9 greater understanding and respect Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger introduced this year by his colleague, of their classmates who are different

“It benefits not only the LGBT students but also their straight counterparts.”

▼

from them. It benefits not only the LGBT students but also their straight counterparts. It should bring a more welcoming learning environment.”

Anti-gay groups voice objections The same anti-gay groups that battled Leno over his pro-same-sex marriage bill are now trying to stop the FAIR Act from becoming law.

They have couched their objections to the bill in arguments that parents have a right to know about, and control, what their children learn in the classroom.

“The legislative bill to force the inclusion of homosexual, bisexual, and transgender orientation into the California social science curriculum has moved one step closer to passage.

See page 17 >>

The news of the contract drew much criticism from other interested parties. Drew Hammill, a spokesman for House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) said, “If Republicans were really interested in cutting spending, this should be at the top of the list.”

The Human Rights Campaign fired off a press release Monday, April 18, calling King and Spalding’s decision to take the case “a shameful stain on the firm’s reputation.” And it issued a second press release Tuesday, saying it would wage a campaign to alert clients and potential employees about King and Spalding’s defense of DOMA. The House’s action comes after the Justice Department in February announced it would no longer defend DOMA in court. The department said that it was up to the courts to make the final determination of whether the law is constitutional. The Obama administration also made clear it intended to continue enforcing the law until it is determined to be

unconstitutional by the courts.

There are currently several DOMA cases in the federal courts.

HRC President Joe Solmonese said the cost of the DOMA litigation would be “staggering” and called it “a jobs plan solely for highpriced lawyers bent on defending discrimination.”

HRC said it sent a letter to the largest law firms in the country just last month, “urging them not to take up DOMA’s defense.”

“In taking up DOMA’s defense,” said Solmonese, King and Spalding “is aiding and abetting an effort to score cheap political points on the backs of same-sex couples.”

“King and Spalding was not required to take up this defense,” said Solmonese, “and should be ashamed of associating themselves with an effort to deny rights to their fellow citizens.”

Fred Sainz, a spokesman for HRC, said Tuesday that the organization is already reevaluating its score of King and Spalding from HRC’s 2011

Corporate Equality Index. He said the scores given to firms takes into consideration not only in-house policies concerning LGBT people, but also whether the firm takes on cases with a hurtful impact on LGBT people.

“If you take on a case that is hostile to LGBT people,” said Sainz, “that is an immediate grounds for points to be deducted from your score. ...

And this particular case [defense of DOMA] is off the charts in terms of its impact on LGBT families.”

The conservative Family Research Council’s website said the House’s defense of DOMA is in the nation’s “economic interest.”

“America spends $112 billion a year just from divorce and out-ofwedlock births,” the group stated, and “the U.S. budget would become a free-for-all for domestic partner benefits and other perks that the law currently prevents.”

“According to experts,” said the council, “the price tag – just for samesex partner benefits – is roughly $670 million over the next 10 years. Add

that to the cost of family breakdown, and suddenly the legal fees don’t seem that much.”

Lisa Hardaway of Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund couldn’t immediately confirm those figures.

The House signed the contract with King and Spalding on April 14. Clement and Bucholtz and a third attorney, Nicholas Nelson, signed a brief April 18 to the U.S. District Court for Southern New York in Windsor v. U.S., one of the lawsuits challenging DOMA in the 2nd Circuit. The brief asks that the House be allowed to participate in the lawsuit as a defendant.

The King and Spalding website mentions that one of its partners, Sam Griffin in the Atlanta office, is a member of the Stonewall Bar Association of Georgia. Griffin’s bio page indicates he is also a member of the National LGBT Bar Association.

The website also notes that an associate in the Atlanta office, Brian Basinger, is president of the Stonewall Bar Association of Georgia.▼

me and feel there’s more hope for their future.”

Another woman being honored

by Pride this year is Christiana Remington, who founded Butterfly Productions in 2002 to create a space where lesbian women of all shapes, sizes, and colors could gather.

In a statement provided by Pride, Remington said her focus is “to continually nurture multi-cultural events that help strengthen our community.”

Therese “Terry” Stewart, 54, is likely one of the best-known grand marshals this year.

Stewart is San Francisco’s chief deputy city attorney and has represented the city in cases involving same-sex couples’ constitutional right to marry. That includes the federal Perry vs. Brown case, which is aimed at overturning the state’s Proposition 8 same-sex marriage ban.

“I feel like I’ve gotten to do this amazing legal work. Then, to get honored for it, is kind of above and beyond,” she said of the grand marshal honor.

She said she hopes that the community sees in her “an effective advocate, and a voice for them in the courts.”

The faith community is also represented this year.

The Reverend Roland Stringfellow, 42, directs the Coalition of Welcoming Congregations, a program of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Sexuality on the campus of Pacific School of Religion and works with California Faith for Equality.

Stringfellow said as an “out and proud” African American Christian minister, he’s “honored” to be a grand marshal.

“I hope my presence in the San Francisco Pride Parade will provide a broader vision of community and encourage open minds and hearts to what it means to be spiritual and gay,” he said.

Graylin K. Thornton, 50, is another gay person of color who’s deeply involved in the LGBT community.

Thornton is a past recipient of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s Leather Leadership Award, among other honors. He continuously volunteers, judges, emcees, and supports local and national charitable events.

Thornton said he was “overwhelmed” by his Pride honor.

“We do the things we do, and we do them thinking we’ll be never be recognized, because that’s not why we do it,” he said.

One grand marshal is being recognized for lifetime achievement.

Bishop Yvette Flunder, 55, is an ordained Minister of the United Church of Christ and senior pastor of City of Refuge UCC. Responding to the needs of the AIDS epidemic, Flunder and her staff developed Ark of Refuge Inc., a nonprofit agency that provides housing, direct services, education, and training for people affected by HIV/AIDS. Flunder, who is African American and identifies as a same-gender loving woman, said she appreciates being selected as a grand marshal, particularly as a person of color, as a native San Franciscan, and as a person of faith. “... So much of my life experience in San Francisco is knitted together in all those things, so I appreciate the community choosing me, and all of who I am,” said Flunder. “That’s a great blessing.”

Paul Boneberg, the historical society’s executive director, said the group is “very honored” to be a grand marshal, which he noted should provide visibility for the museum.

The Trevor Project, which runs a hotline for LGBT and questioning youth, is this year’s national organizational grand marshal.

Former Executive Director and CEO Charles Robbins said in January, shortly after the group was selected as a grand marshal, that the project is “honored that people care about young people and their safety.”

Academy Award-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, who is on the group’s board of directors, and David McFarland, interim executive director and CEO, are representing the organization, according to Pride.

Chef: Just Desserts. He hopes to open a high-end pastry shop in the city by the end of the year.

Pura, who is gay, would also like to be a role model, including for LGBT youth. He’ll be at a queer youth summit in San Mateo this weekend.

He said being a grand marshal’s a “tremendous honor” that means “I need to keep up the work that much harder.”

Chaz Bono, who’s most famous for being the child of singing legend Cher and the late Sonny Bono, is also a transgender advocate, author, and speaker. He transitioned a couple of years ago amid some publicity.

“I am extremely pleased to have been selected grand marshal of one of the nation’s largest community pride events,” Bono said in a statement from Pride.

Bono isn’t the only grand marshal with a connection to Cher.

Actress Olympia Dukakis, who won an Academy Award for her performance in the film Moonstruck, in which Cher starred (and also won an Oscar for) is another grand marshal this year.

“Daunted – totally,” Dukakis, a straight ally, said in a brief statement to the Pride Committee.

Organizations In addition to individuals, two organizations are being honored this year.

San Francisco’s GLBT Historical Society is the 2011 local organizational grand marshal. It recently opened a museum in the city’s Castro neighborhood.

Honorary marshals Two people will be Pride’s honorary grand marshals this year.

Susie Bright, 53, is the author of Big Sex Little Death: A Memoir.

In an email, Bright, who is bisexual, said, “A lot of people associate my name with sex-positive feminism, with sexual self-determination, with the insights I get from politics and sex. My float theme may very well be, ‘Clits Up!’” Ron Wong, 67, is a previous Pride board member and treasurer, and he’s also been involved with AIDS Project East Bay, among other groups.

Wong, who’s married to DeWitt Hoard, said it’s “great to represent the community in general,” and he’s also “glad to be represented as a person of color, and to represent same-sex marriage.”

Celebrity grand marshals As usual, Pride’s honoring a number of celebrities.

One has made San Francisco particularly proud. Yigit Pura, 30, was crowned the winner and fan favorite on the premiere season of Bravo’s Top

Pink Brick Not all the Pride awards are happy ones. The Pink Brick goes to the person who has caused harm to the LGBT community. This year’s brick “winner” is Lou Engle, who’s been linked as a supporter of Uganda’s “Kill the Gays” bill.

An assistant to Engle said in an email that he wasn’t available for an interview, but included some thoughtful words in her message: “May He bless you and keep you and make His face shine upon you.”▼ This year’s Pride festivities are June 25-26. The theme is “In Pride We Trust.” For more information, visit www.sfpride.org.

â&#x2013;ź <<

Community News>>

CA schools

From page 16

Take a moment to imagine the confusion public school children will experience when they are introduced to different sexual orientations,â&#x20AC;? wrote Ron Prentice, chief executive officer of the California Family Council, a day after the Senate passed the FAIR Act. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unsuspecting parents may never know of this content, or its affect [sic] on their own children.â&#x20AC;?

Yet educators respond that parents do not have veto power over teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lesson plans when it comes to other subjects taught in schools. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teachers all the time bring material in from the news, from history. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t send letters home to parents to discuss the content on a daily basis. This is no different,â&#x20AC;? said Shweky of the Milk materials.

Another objection voiced by parents opposed to the teaching of LGBT history is that it requires students to learn about gay sex.

That concern was voiced recently by the mother of a student at a private boys school in San Francisco who objected to a second-grade field trip to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Castro neighborhood.

Late last month Kathy Amendola, the operator of the Cruisinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the Castro Tours, took 50 secondgraders from the Town School for Boys in Pacific Heights, plus 14 teachers and parents, on a history tour about the LGBT district.

Amendola said she tailored her talk so that it was age appropriate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was one of the best tours I have ever given. It was really empowering,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because it is amazing how open these children have been to learning about civil rights and history. That is exactly what the tour was focused on.â&#x20AC;?

She has taken various schoolage groups on Castro tours over the years, said Amendola. And she hopes more schools begin educating students about LGBT history. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Harvey Milk should be taught in school; it is about civil rights,â&#x20AC;? she

<<

Pink Saturday From page 9

implications for a change like that.â&#x20AC;?

Pride has long opposed charging to attend the event. Like Pink Saturday, attending Pride is free, though donations are encouraged.

Behan said other issues would include how to collect money that people would pay to use the toilets.

Neither the ISCOTT summary nor the Sistersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; application spells out exactly how people would pay.

It might seem if people have to pay to use the toilets, they will be more likely to use the streets to relieve themselves. But at least a couple of people in the Castro area donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem too worried.

Patrick Batt, who owns Auto Erotica on 18th Street, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seen or heard problems about people pissing in the streets or on the sidewalks,â&#x20AC;? during the annual event. He said he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think the $1 toilets would increase chances of that happening, either.

Alan Beach-Nelson, president of the Castro/Eureka Valley Neighborhood Association, didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think having

<<

Guest Opinion From page 4

IRAs, life insurance, and so on.

Yes, this will take years to build.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also arguably the single most viable way to lay that kind of financial foundation (other than await our own Bill Gates or for manna to rain down from heaven). But if our community is here for good, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time we start planning like it. If such an endowment had been started 25 or 30 or 40 years ago, today it would

said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Often the gay community is referred to as the invisible culture.

We are everywhere, not just in a neighborhood.â&#x20AC;?

One parent, though, opted to keep her son from going on the tour and then complained anonymously about the trip to a local television reporter. Her main complaint was she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see how one could explain why a person is gay to a child without the conversation discussing sex.

But once again educators say those concerns are misguided, noting that teachers do not delve into the sexual relations of other historical figures they study. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are not here to talk about any kind of sex, whether it is between heterosexuals or homosexuals.

We are here talking about his contributions to society,â&#x20AC;? said Luna about her teaching about Milk.

Based on her experiences in the classroom, Luna said students arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t thinking about intercourse during discussions about LGBT people. It is only the adults whose minds turn to the topic, she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The reasons they think about sex is their issues with homosexuality.

Their minds go to the bedroom,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Really, it is about them.

Children, their minds are not going to sex. It is the parents who are homophobic.â&#x20AC;?

Shweky said the Sacramento district is leaving it up to teachers to determine how best to answer questions from their students on what being gay means. Nowadays, a majority of students already understand the term, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think at every grade level there is a lot more awareness and knowledge. But there are also a lot more huge misconceptions. This allows the students to have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about what it means to be L,G,B, or T,â&#x20AC;? said Shweky. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a great opportunity for students to take some knowledge they have but to really expand that to a more true understanding.â&#x20AC;?â&#x2013;ź

to pay for the toilets would deter partygoers from using them.

He said he and his husband used to own a condo at Hartford and 17th streets, and during Pink Saturday, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We used to hang out on our porch and let people come in to use our bathroom, usually women.â&#x20AC;? People would offer to pay them, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got to be some way to cover the costsâ&#x20AC;? of the event, said Beach-Nelson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It certainly isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a bad idea to try it out and see how it works.â&#x20AC;?

Shooting investigation continues San Francisco police are continuing to investigate the death of Stephen Powell, 19, who was fatally shot during last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pink Saturday. Lieutenant Lea Militello, the head of the San Francisco Police Departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homicide unit, said last week that no witnesses have come forward.

Anyone with information about the case can contact the homicide unit at (415) 553-1145, call police anonymously at (415) 575-4444, or text a tip to 847411 (TIP411). Type â&#x20AC;&#x153;SFPDâ&#x20AC;? and then the tip.â&#x2013;ź

be easing the recessionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pain on LGBT organizations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and, more importantly, on the thousands and thousands of people whose lives they touch, help, heal, and even save.

We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t re-do yesterday, but we can plan and create for tomorrow.

Generations will be following us. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leave them a community theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be proud of. â&#x2013;ź Roger Doughty is the executive director of Horizons Foundation.

The link to Part 1 of his op-ed, is http://tinyurl.com/3fevvnt.

April 21-27, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ BAY AREA REPORTER â&#x20AC;˘ 17

ClassiďŹ eds The

Legal Notices>> City and County of San Francisco For Papers April 21, 2011 ARTS COMMISSION HOSTS CENTRAL MARKET BASH Art in Storefronts, Gallery Receptions, Debut of Temporary Public Art, and Live Music When: Friday, May 13, 5-7 p.m.

Where: Formal remarks at 5:30 at 998 Market Street.

Party is along Market Street between 6th Street and U.N. Plaza Central Market will come alive for the Art in Storefronts launch celebration. The festivities include receptions at three neighborhood galleries, the debut of two temporary public art sculptures, live music lining Central Market, and Off the Grid food trucks. The community FHOHEUDWLRQ ZLOO NLFN RII ZLWK WKH XQYHLOLQJ WKH VL[ VWRUHIURQW LQVWDOODWLRQV DQG Ă&#x20AC;YH PXUDOV designed by San Francisco artists. Gamelan X, a Balinese fusion ensemble, will lead a procession up Market Street where the public may catch performances by the John Brothers Piano Company; the Jaz Sawyer Trio playing on Bulbous, a temporary wall of drums created E\ 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH 'LYLVLRQ DQG WKH 6SDFH &RZER\V '- &ROOHFWLYH SHUIRUPLQJ RQ WKHLU KL WHFK PRELOH sound system called The Unimog at U.N. Plaza.

Notice of Public Hearing and Availability of Draft 2011-2012 Action Plan, Including Preliminary Funding Recommendations The Draft 2011-2012 Action Plan, which includes preliminary funding recommendations for the CDBG, ESG, HOME and HOPWA programs, will be available for public review and comment from March 28, 2011 through April 26, 2011. For more information, please visit www.sfgov.org/moh or call 415-701-5500.

Pier 70 Six Historic Buildings on 20th Street REQUEST FOR INTEREST In Rehabilitation Opportunity under Long-Term Lease Register and receive the RFI on the Port of San Francisco website: www.sfport.com/pier70.

Or email Lynda.Swanson@sfport.com Submittal Deadline: June 1, 2011.

APRIL - JUNE 2011 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGULARLY SCHEDULED BOARD MEETINGS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Come see your San Francisco government in action.

Tuesdays, 2:00pm, City Hall Chamber, Room 250.

April 26, May 3, May 10, May 17, May 24, June 7, June 14, June 21, June 28 News from the S.F. Residential Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Board Did you know you may be due interest on your security deposit? Chapter 49 of the San Francisco Administrative Code requires landlords to pay interest annually on deposits held on residential property. Landlords are required to pay interest on all monies held over one year, regardless of what the deposit is called. From March 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012, the interest rate on security deposits is 0.4%. More details at www.sfrb.org.

From March 1, 2011 through February 29, 2012, the annual allowable increase amount for rentstabilized homes, apartments and hotel rooms is 0.5%. More information at www.sfrb.org. Information on over 80 topics of interest to landlords and tenants is also available in English, Spanish, and Chinese by FDOOLQJ )RU LQGLYLGXDO FRXQVHOLQJ FDOO RU YLVLWLQJ WKH 5HQW %RDUG¡V RIĂ&#x20AC;FH in San Francisco at 25 Van Ness Avenue, Room 320, during regular business hours.

The City and County of San Francisco encourage public outreach. Articles are translated into several languages to provide better public access. The newspaper makes every effort to translate the articles of general interest correctly. No liability is assumed by the City and County of San Francisco or the newspapers for errors and omissions.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are NSHL CAPITAL LLC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 71 Stevenson Street,Suite 1500, San Francisco, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at: 420 Judah St., San Francisco, CA 94122. Type of license applied for:

41- ON-SALE BEER AND WINEEATING PLACE APR 21 ,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033448900 The following person(s) is/are doing business as CASTRO LOCKSMITH, 2616 24TH Ave.,San Francisco,CA 94116. This business is conducted by an individual, signed Stephen Green. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on 08/01/91. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/29/11.

MAR 31,APR 7,14,21,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033446600 The following person(s) is/are doing business as PEGASUS BUILDERS, 250 Olmstead St.,San Francisco,CA 94134. This business is conducted by an individual, signed Gearoid Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on NA. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/28/11.

MAR 31,APR 7,14,21,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033449200 The following person(s) is/are doing business as JUDAH COSMETOLOGY & FOOT CARE, 2721 Judah St.,San Francisco,CA 94122. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Sin Lin Leong.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on NA. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/29/11.

MAR 31,APR 7,14,21,2011 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are : EMPORIO RULLI ILCAFFE AT UNION SQUARE INC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 71 Stevenson Street,Suite 1500, San Francisco, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 350 Powell St., San Francisco, CA 94102-1813. Type of license applied for:

41- ON-SALE BEER AND WINE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EATING PLACE APR 14,21,28,2011

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are : PETER HARAMIS. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 71 Stevenson Street,Suite 1500, San Francisco, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 256 Columbus Ave., San Francisco, CA 94133-4518.

Type of license applied for:

47- ON-SALE GENERAL EATING PLACE APR 14,21,28,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033465800 The following person(s) is/are doing business as THE EDGE, 4149 18th St.San Francisco,CA 94114.

This business is conducted by a corporation,signed Robert Giljum.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on NA. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/04/11.

APR 7,14,21,28,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033449100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as BDG â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BATES DESIGN GROUP, 146 Noe St.San Francisco,CA 94114. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Lawrence Bates.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on NA. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/29/11.

APR 7,14,21,28,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033454100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as GOLDEN GATE CONSULTING 524 Primrose Rd. #303,San Francisco,CA 94010. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Alexander Fridman.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on NA. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/30/11.

APR 7,14,21,28,2011 STATEMENT FILE A-033418200 The following person(s) is/are doing business as KRUEGER PR,2340 Vallejo St.,#200,San Francisco,CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Kelly Krueger. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed ďŹ ctitious business name or names on 10/31/10. The statement was ďŹ led with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/15/11.

APR 7,14,21,28,2011

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA RAPID TRANSIT DISTRICT NOTICE TO PROPOSERS GENERAL INFORMATION The SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA RAPID TRANSIT DISTRICT, 300 Lakeside Drive, Oakland, California, is advertising for proposals on or about April 13, 2011 for General Engineering Services in the areas of facilities (stations, buildings, yards and shops); train control systems; transit power systems, controls and communications; mainline and yard infrastructure; automatic fare collection; parking and intermodal access; computer hardware and software; and rail vehicle support (standard BART and eBART/DMU equipment) with proposals due by 2:00 P.M. local time, Tuesday, May 24, 2011.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK TO BE PERFORMED The request for General Engineering Services VKDOO EH IRU D Ă&#x20AC;YH \HDU SHULRG DQG WKH 'LVtrict intends to make three (3) awards resulting from this RFP. It is anticipated that each of the three (3) Agreements awarded under this RFP shall not exceed the amount of Twenty Million Dollars ($20,000,000.00); however, there is no guaranteed minimum level of compensation as more particularly described in the RFP No. 6M8043.

A pre-Proposal meeting will be held on Friday, April 29, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. in the BART Board Room, located in the Kaiser Center 20th Street Mall, Third Floor, 344 - 20th Street, Oakland, CA 94612.

Immediately following the pre-Proposal meetLQJ WKH 'LVWULFW¡V 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH RI &LYLO 5LJKWV ZLOO be conducting a networking session for DBE participation as possible Joint Ventures and/ or subconsultants for this project.

Prospective Proposers are urged to make every effort to attend this only-scheduled pre-Proposal meeting.

Proposals must be received by 2:00 P.M., local time, Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at the address listed in the RFP. Submission of a proposal VKDOO FRQVWLWXWH D Ă&#x20AC;UP RIIHU WR WKH 'LVWULFW IRU One Hundred and Eighty (180) calendar days from date of proposal submission.

WHERE TO OBTAIN OR SEE RFP DOCUMENTS (Available on or after April 22, 2011) Copies of the RFP may be obtained: A PDF version of the RFP will be sent to DOO Ă&#x20AC;UPV RQ WKH ,QWHUHVWHG 3DUWLHV /LVW DW time of advertisement; or, (1) By E-mail request to the Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Contract Administrator, Steve Alva, at salva@bart.gov.

(2) By arranging pickup at the above address.

Call the Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Contract Administrator at (510) 464-6383 prior to pickup of the RFP. (3) By attending the Pre-Proposal Meeting and obtaining the RFP at the meeting.

Dated at Oakland, California this 13th day of April, 2011.

Kenneth A. Duron, District Secretary San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District Â&#x2021; &16 BAY AREA REPORTER

NOTICE OF DEATH OF NOMAR DE LA TORRE To all heirs, beneďŹ ciaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of NOMAR DE LA TORRE, who was a resident of San Francisco County, State of California, and died on March 6, 2011, in the City of San Jose, County of Santa Clara, State of California.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must ďŹ le your claim within four months from the date of ďŹ rst publication with the DERMER LAW FIRM, 15720 Winchester Boulevard, Suite 1, Los Gatos, California 95030 (408) 395-5111.

Joseph D. Dermer, Esq. DERMER LAW FIRM 15720 Winchester Blvd., Suite 1 Los Gatos, CA 95030 Tel (408) 395-5111 Fax (408) 354-2797 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are : MECIT ATES. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 71 Stevenson Street,Suite 1500, San Francisco, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 1161 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103. Type of license applied for:

41- ON-SALE BEER AND WINE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EATING PLACE APR 21,28,MAY 5,2011

All the news thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fit to post.

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

18• Bay Area Reporter • April 21-27, 2011

Legal Services>>

Legal Notices>>

In the matter of the application of BRANDON JAMES WARNER for change of name. The application of BRANDON JAMES WARNER for change of name having been filed in Court, and it appearing from said application that BRANDON JAMES WARNER filed an application proposing that his/her name be changed to PAIGE MARIE WARNER. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Room 218 on the 14th of JUNE, 2011 at 9:00 am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 state of california in and for the county of san francisco file# cnc-10-547636 In the matter of the application of SUSAN VIRGINIA BASQUIN for change of name. The application of SUSAN VIRGINIA BASQUIN for change of name having been filed in Court, and it appearing from said application SUSAN VIRGINIA BASQUIN filed an application proposing that his/her name be changed to WILLIAM VIRGINIA BASQUIN. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Room 218 on the 26th of May, 2011 at 9:00 am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 statement file A-033469300 The following person(s) is/are doing business as CITIREPORT – POLITICS, MONEY& ETHICS, 245 Diamond St.,San Francisco,CA 94114. This business is conducted by a corporation,signed Larry Bush. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/03/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/05/11.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 statement file A-033479100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as 1.QUIJADA REALTY GROUP 2.BAY AREA PROPERTIES,2305 JUDAH ST.,San Francisco,CA 94122.This business is conducted by an individual,signed Elisabeth Quijada.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/11/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/11/11.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 statement file A-033428600 The following person(s) is/are doing business as QCOMEDY,1045 Mission ST., Apt. 322,San Francisco,CA 94103.This business is conducted by an individual,signed Nicholas Leonard.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/31/00. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/18/11.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 statement file A-033477000 The following person(s) is/are doing business as CASTRO VILLAGE WINE COMPANY, 4119 19th ST.,San Francisco,CA 94114.This business is conducted by a limited liability company,signed Todd McElhatton.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/08/11.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 statement file A-033479800 The following person(s) is/are doing business as DOG GONE IT, 4444 17th St..,San Francisco,CA 94114.This business is conducted by an individual,signed Paul Aeschbacher.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/11/11.

apr 14,21,28,may 5,2011 state of california in and for the county of san francisco file# cnc-11-547660 In the matter of the application of NICHOLAS KAYE ROSING for change of name. The application of NICHOLAS KAYE ROSING for change of name having been filed in Court, and it appearing from said application that NICHOLAS KAYE ROSING filed an application proposing that his/her name be changed to RICKY DAVID WRIGHT. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Room 218 on the 14th of JUNE, 2011 at 9:00 am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 statement file A-033492100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as WAROE LLC,71 Stevenson St.,Suite 400 San Francisco,,CA 94105. This business is conducted by a limited liability company,signed Daniel Asfaha. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/15/11.

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011

RHD_1x4/2x2_1611

Tech Support>>

Jobs Offered>>

statement file A-033494900

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

The following person(s) is/are doing business J&M HEALTH SPA, 1560 Noriega St.,San Francisco,,CA 94122. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Meili Ji.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/18/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/18/11.

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 statement file A-033492300 The following person(s) is/are doing business 1.SAN FRANCISCO REALTY, 2. .SAN FRANCISCO HOUSES, 3.BAY AREA HOUSES, 4.BAY BROKER,101 California St., #2450, San Francisco,,CA 94111. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Steve Atkinson.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/15/11.

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 statement file A-033494100 The following person(s) is/are doing business JIM XU MARBLE, 1034 Sutter St.,Apt. 5, San Francisco,CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Ji Xin Xu. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/15/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/15/11.

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 statement file A-033493100

www.stevenunderhill.com

state of california in and for the county of san francisco file# cnc-11-547648

The following person(s) is/are doing business 5 STAR UNITED, 3601 Cabrillo St., San Francisco,,CA 94121. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Igor Belov.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/15/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/15/11.

Upside down?

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 Statement of abandonment of use of ficticious business name: #A-0326148-02

Get your computer back up!

The following persons have abandoned the use of the ficticious business name known as UNITED ARTISTS INTERNATIONAL,3601 Cabrillo St., San Francisco, CA 94121.This business was conducted by an individual, signed Igor Belov.

The ficticious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/05/10.

Troubleshooting. Installation. Tutoring.

We’ll fix your computer – PC or Mac – at your home or office throughout the Bay Area.

415-552-7909 www.remaincom.net

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 Statement of abandonment of use of ficticious business name: #A-0300916-02

PC/Mac troubleshooting: Rob Cohen 415.244-3305 rob@sfcomputech.com

The following persons have abandoned the use of the ficticious business name known as SUSHI FACTORY,901 Kearny St., San Francisco, CA 94133.This business was conducted by a general partnership, signed Aoieong ,Chim Peng.

The ficticious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/26/07.

e14w

Rentals>>

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 statement file A-033461200 The following person(s) is/are doing business MEANINGLESS WORLD RECORDS, 4918 California St.,#2, San Francisco,,CA 94118. This business is conducted by an individual,signed Nathan Pugh. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/01/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/01/11.

SF RENTAL GEM!

At top of Silver Terrace Hill House.Hilltop View. Garden.

Garage. 2 Bedrm. 2 Bath, 2 Large Closets. New Appliances + Washer & Dryer. Double Pane Windows.

W/W carpets. $2000/Mo. Leave Msg. 510-814-9875

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011

e16w

City Hall Ceremonies basic package $400. Digital photography.

Including the ceremony, candid and group photos on C.D. San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin and San Mateo counties.

Additional services available including, use of traditional film and “non city hall” weddings.

Jane Philomen Cleland a lesbian professional photographer with 25 years experience weddings, events and…Published weekly in the B.A.R. since 1989 CALL 415-505-0559 http://www.janephilomencleland.com/ EiB

RICK GERHARTER PHOTOGRAPHY

20 years experience. Dependable.

415-823-8716 rgerharter@igc.org www.rickgerharterphotos.com

eib

DRIVER WITH CAR

A few personal errands each week. Good pay. Pleasant little extra job. Driver needs to live in San Francsisco.

415-922-5996.

e15w

Stompers Boots

Stompers Boots is looking for someone to be photographed wearing boots and / or leather for its website. Person should be between 21 and 50, in shape, and photographs well. $50.00 an hour. Must be available on an ongoing basis. Send photo, height, weight, pants, jacket and shoe size plus contact information to Attn: Model, Stompers Boots, 323 10th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 or by email to mike@stompersboots. com. . Selected person (s) will be notified by email.

e16w

e16w

The following person(s) is/are doing business 1.BLINK, 2.BY THE WAY, 3.BTW, 522 2nd St.,San Francisco,CA 94107. This business is conducted by a corporation, signed Bruce Slesinger.The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/14/11.

LGBT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Resources for Human Development, Inc. (RHD) (www.rhd.org) is seeking a full-time Program Director for a new Housing and Drug & Alcohol Treatment program for 18 transgender adult individuals.

Ideal candidate will be a member of the transgender community, and have a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree preferred) in a clinical field, with prior drug & alcohol experience. In addition, the candidate will have 3-4 years experience providing clinical services to transgender individuals.

Three to four years of experience managing and supervising others, and managing a program required.

Please send your resume and cover letter with salary expectations to Debbie Kulp, by email: mgh@rhd. org, for consideration. EOE.

Room 4 Rent In the Modesto Area.

Call Jim @ 209-840-2043 After 3pm

apr 21,28,may 5,12,2011 statement file A-033489300

Photography>>

t

Happy 40th BAR from Cary Law Center Mediation - Creative Problem Solving 888-647-9418

e14w

Nursing Services>> LICENSED MALE NURSE 41

Seeks A Home Health Care Position.

Interested in a long term commitment to a chronic or acutely ill patient. Providing assitance in daily living. Please Contact Michael @ 415-595-8540

e14w

CAREGIVER

Male Caregiver Looking for room for exchange. I have excellent references. I would be home at night, fix breakfast and dinner. I have to work for benefits outside the home.

415-713-3275 e15w

Real Estate>>

Catering395 >> Ninth Street S.F. CA

PHONE 415.861.5019 FAX 861 TACOS FOR YOUR PARTIES

Looking for Taco Bar Catering?

We offer Mexican tacos and more.

We use 100% Mesquite.

Meats grilled on site. www.takobarcatering.com Juanita Repetto 888-351-6218

e14w

Upscale San Francisco style home with low maintenance yards. Located in the wonderful Contra Costa Country Club setting with extensive views overlooking the greenbelt and hills that back up to the 16th hole on the fairway. Features 3 bdrms, 2bths, with a division of space. Visit www.824GolfClub.com for more info. Open Sunday 3/13/11 from 1-4. 824 Golf Club Circ. Pleasant Hill, Ca. Priced at only $465,000.

Diablo Realty, Leila and Diane 925-437-4135

e14w

WINE COUNTRY RETREAT

3BD/2BA home on 1 acre w/ remod kitchen & baths, sunrms, office& det shed.

Agt. 707-544-3500 $695K www.3530HiddenHills.com

e14w

To view our expanded Classifieds, visit us at:

t

Read more online at www.ebar.com

Movers>>

April 21-27, 2011 • Bay Area Reporter • 19

Counseling>>

Upkeep>>

Gaylesta2x2_0610CN

ashfieldconstruction_1x1_1211 Ashfield Construction

• Bath/Kitchen Remodel • Windows/Siding • Decks/Dry Rot • Remodels

CA. Lic# 731608

415-407-2765

Hauling>> Hauling 24/7 441-1054 Lg. Truck

e15w

Household Services>>

This year, don’t get caught with your pants down!

San Francisco LGBT Pride is only 11 weeks away!

Reserve your ad space early in the Bay Area Reporter’s largest and most read issue of the year.

Call 415-861-5019 for information.

Quality Housecleaner Polish, wash, iron.

Call Jose 415-235-9747

WWW.QUEERHYPNO.COM Hot Mental Resources - Results.

e14w

Ad deadline is June 10, 2011

COUNSELORS CHECK OUT THE BAY AREA REPORTER ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS @ ebar.com Call David @ 415-861-5019

The

e21w

Cleaning Professional 25 Years Exp (415) 664-0513 * Roger Miller

Client_size_issue

EI

e17w

Housecleaning since 1979.

Many original clients. All supplies.

HEPA Vac. Richard 415-255-0389

The

e17w

Classified Order Form

BAYAREAREPORTER

Deadline: NOON on MONDAY. Payment must accompany ad. No ads taken over the telephone.

Basic clean $40 wkly. Once $55.

Monthly $45. Kitchen, bath, dust, mop, +. Satisfaction guaranteed.

In BAR 10 yrs John 205-0397

If you have a question, call 415.861.5019. Display advertising rates available upon request.

Indicate Type Style Here

XBOLD and BOLD stop here

395 Ninth Street S.F. CA

e14w

CLOUD 9 CANINE

Dog walking, pet sitting, play groups. Insured, CPR Certified, Dog Tech Certified.

Excellent References.

Sky 415-531-5905 sky@cloud9canine.com

PHONE 415.861.5019

FAX 861-8144

Brookline Electric 415-239-5393 Small Jobs Now

e17w

eib

fax to: 395 ninth street s.f. ca faX 861-8144

and415.861.5019 tphone n i r p r e you To plac lassified ad, online C to go

fax from:

RATES for Newspaper and website: First line, Regular 8.00 All subsequent lines 5.00 Web or e-mail hyperlink 5.00 CAPS double price BOLD double price X-BOLD triple price PAYMENT:

Cash

Personal Check

Contact Information Name Address Number of Issues

Mail with payment to: Bay Area Reporter 395 Ninth Street SF, CA 94103 OR FAX TO: 415.861.8144 OR E-MAIL: baradv@aol.com

Credit Card Payment Name Card Number Expiration Date Signature Money Order

City Classification

Visa

MasterCard

AmEx

Telephone State Amt. Enclosed

Zip

Fax to

Fax fr

24

Hellacious

24

28

26

Good Charlotte

Sisterhood

The

Vol. 41 • No. 16 • April 21-27, 2011

www.ebar.com/arts

Christopher Plummer and Ewan McGregor as father and son in Mike Mills’ Beginners.

San Francisco Film Society

T

his year’s edition of the San Francisco International Film Festival (April 21May 5 at the Castro Theatre, Sundance Kabuki Cinemas, New People Cinema, and Pacific Film Archive in Berkeley) starts off on a sprightly queer note with Mike Mills’ moving ode to his late-to-come-out gay father, Beginners. More gay content includes a moving portrayal of a lesbian relationship under the Iranian religious police state, first-time director Maryam Keshavarz’s Circumstance; the revival of the late Sidney Lumet’s insurrectional Dog Day Afternoon; a newly rediscovered and restored sciencefiction melodrama from German bad boy Rainer Werner Fassbinder; and a State of the Cinema Address from Killer Films founder and queer indie producer Christine Vachon.

Beginners Mike Mills didn’t expect that his 75-year-old father would use the end of his marriage to make a startling life transformation. “My dad came

out – my parents were married for 45 years. They ar the World War II-era generation. He was gay are iin a world where that just was a very hostile place, and the limited place and the limited life you could have as a gay person really freaked him out. He and my mom were friends since high school, and they really did love each other on some level, and tried to work it out, and god knows exactly what he did for 45 years. He was with her and not with other people. When he came out, he was 75 years old, and he came out full guns, not just intellectually. He really wanted to be gay in every way, and have a relationship. It was a very beautiful, sad, crazy part of all our lives.

A And it’s definitely a part of my life, because I live w with that father figure who definitely was an odd fat father figure, a closeted gay man.

“I many points of my life, it would have been “In See page 32 >>

Thomas Dekker in Cinema Verite.

The fantasy of reality TV HBO’s ‘Cinema Verite’ recalls the Loud family

by David Elijah Nahmod

I

n 1973, the PBS series An American Family was the talk of the town. This very early example of the now-popular reality TV genre starred the Louds, an upper-middle-class family from Santa Barbara, CA. The 12-episode series was meant to follow the day-to-day lives of an “ordinary” American family, though in retrospect, it’s highly unlikely that the Louds’ huge, palm tree-dotted property was an accurate representation of how regular folks lived.

Neither the Louds nor viewers knew what they were getting themselves involved in. An American Family effectively destroyed the fantasy of American suburban life that shows like Leave it to Beaver, The Donna Reed Show and Father Knows Best tried to present as “real” during the 1950s. The Louds were a family in turmoil. Bill, the father, was interested in every woman in town except his wife. Pat Loud, the Mom, knew it. In an episode that startled viewers,

Sam Urdank/HBO

{ SECOND OF TWO SECTIONS }

she asked Bill for a divorce, and told him to leave the house.

A scene perhaps even more disconcerting to 1973 audiences came earlier in the series. In the second episode, Pat visits her son Lance in New York City.

Lance Loud is flamboyant, lives at the Chelsea Hotel, and hangs out with legendary Warhol drag queen Jackie Curtis. He doesn’t give a hang who knows he’s gay. Lance, who died of AIDS in 2001, is now credited as the first openly gay character on television, though he was not a character. He was a real person, being who he was. TV viewers were stunned but fascinated. The Louds became celebrities, and the subject of much criticism.

Now HBO offers Cinema Verite, a dramatization of the TV series’ filming. As suggested by screenwriter David Seltzer, Family producer Craig Gilbert (James Gandolfini) is presented as a manipulative monster who comforts a lonely Pat Loud while urging her to air her dirty laundry on See page 33 >>

22 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

<< Out There

April 21-27, 2011

▼

Working blue

by Roberto Friedman

B

allsy young comedian Sarah Silverman appeared live at Zellerbach Hall in Berkeley last week, part of the Cal Performances season, and Out There was there for all the snorts and giggles. Postconcert, compadre Pepi & OT usually like to remember the funniest bits from a comedy routine out loud to each other, but on the BART ride home to SF after the show, we realized that we couldn’t really do that this time. First, because Silverman’s jokes were all sort of blue, and it felt weird calling them out on a quiet train in public; and second, because they weren’t all that funny when not coming from her, outrageous bawdiness clashing with a sweet-looking soul. One small example: “Not that long ago in the historical scheme of things, I lived in my father’s balls!”

A Q&A from the audience

was just as sexually frank. To the question, “Are you still fucking Matt Damon?” Silverman answered, “No, I’m no longer fucking Matt Damon. But I do sometimes finger his asshole.” Asked about her exhusband Jimmy Kimmel, she replied, “Oh, I still love Jimmy, but not in a penis-y kind of way.”

She also talked about her brief meeting with President Obama, apparently a thankyou prize for making The Great Schlep, a video persuading young Jews to get their grandparents in Florida to vote for him. What music does Sarah listen to? Elvis Costello, and she’d considered playing Laurie Anderson’s “O Superman” for the audience, but remembered it was an eternal eight minutes long. OMG, we have the same taste in music as Sarah Silverman, fuck us!

Gimme Fever We’ve been lapping up Cannibal

Courtship, the new album by Los Angeles Cambodian pop band Dengue Fever (Fantasy), ever since we got it. We like the group’s surfrock sound, their catchy guitar riffs, but even more we like their snappy lyrics. “My boyfriend loves everything at the bar but the music, the smoke, and the booze. My boyfriend loves everything about me, except the endless hours of therapy.” (from “Cement Slippers.”) “You wouldn’t understand, I’m famished for a man. Be my sacrificial lamb!” (title song.) “Kiss me goodbye, You’re just another stamp in my passport.” (“Thank You Goodbye.”)

Lead chirp Chhom Nicol sings in nice counterpoint to guitarist Zac Holtzman, both in English and Khmer. Some songs use Khmer melodies grafted onto 1960s Cambodian rock beats. All in all, a great way to learn another Asian language. “Good morning, thank you, goodbye!: Sour sdei, aw kohn, leah hai!”

Listening to Dengue Fever takes us back to years of mornings seeking caffeine at the café where our Cambodian buddy Lok poured joe. “Hello, Bruddah! Oh, you have to work today too, oh too bad!” He played Cambodian karaoke videos on the café TV, mostly soapy ballads, loud. This was culturally challenging at eight in the morning. As Nicol sings, in Khmer on “Uku,” “The windy season makes me think of my village.” And not in a quiet way.

There’s an eerie timeliness to lyrics in the band’s “Mr. Bubbles.”

“Dive in the ocean, it’s warm off the shore. That cools off the core. We had a meltdown, but now it’s under control. And no one needs to know.”

Film, dance & poetry Look what’s coming up but none other than the Bard of Baltimore (and Nob Hill) John Waters’ birthday weekend, being celebrated at the Castro Theatre, “your Cathedral of film” in the gayborhood. Six great, filthy masterpieces, you don’t need us to tell you to see them. Fri., April 22: Pink Flamingos (1972) and Female Trouble (1974). Sat., April 23: Desperate Living (1977) and Polyester (1981). Sun., April 24: Hairspray (1988) and Serial Mom (1994). Times and info are at www. castrotheatre.com.

Bay Area National Dance Week kicks off on Friday, April 22 at Noon

Comedian Sarah Silverman made the great schlep to Berkeley.

in Union Square with One Dance, an all-inclusive flash mob of dancers and non-dancers, schools, companies and artists, all dancing in unison to the same piece of music. The latest count revealed nearly 600 free dance events at this year’s festival, a record.

All the relevant deets are at www.bayareandw.org.

Gay writers group GuyWriters will celebrate National Poetry Month at Blush! wine bar at 476 Castro on Mon., April 25 at 8 p.m. In Pinot & Poetry, local poets Dan Bellm, Brent Calderwood, Randall Mann and James J. Siegel read their work.

Baruch Porras-Hernandez will host the event. The group info can be found at www.guywritersonline.org.

Elegance against AIDS Out of the Closet thrift stores (100 N. Church St.), through an anonymous donor, has acquired an objet d’art of value and sentiment.

“Elegance,” a hand-signed and numbered limited-edition lithograph on paper, is work by Erte (nee Romain De Tirtoff), the so-called “Father of Art Deco.” Erte’s designs in fashion and art have graced the bodies of screen legends Norma Shearer and Joan Crawford, and ballerina Anna Pavlova. His designs have been used for productions at NYC’s Radio City Music Hall and the

Paris Opera. Interest in his original artwork was revived when he began to be collected in the early 1970s by icons like Yves Saint Laurent, Andy Warhol and Barbra Streisand. His work is in the permanent collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art and the Smithsonian Institute.

The lithograph (circa 1975) shows a beautiful woman dressed in a chic, powder-blue, full-length coat with white ermine trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem. There’s a coordinating powder-blue print overlay with a tasseled sweep. Image size: 10 1/2 x 7 1/2 in. Paper size: 16 x 12 in. Framed: 21 1/2 x 19 1/2 in. It’s in a gold frame with linen mat, covered in Plexiglass.

Appraised at $3,700, the asking price is $1,800. OOTC notes that over 95% of each dollar they spend goes directly to patient care.▼

▼

Backstage >>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 23

Jose Guzman-Colon

Performance artist Peter Griggs as the gay boxer in Killer Queen: The Story of Paco the Pink Pounder.

Pugilist in pink

by Richard Dodds

P

eter Griggs promises an “inyour-face” experience in his new one-man show, but since it is a show about a boxer, the “in-yourface” part presumably ends where your nose begins.

Killer Queen: The Story of Paco the Pink Pounder, opening April 28, is being staged in an actual gym, and the audience of no more than three dozen per performance will be incorporated into the floor-level boxing ring. Griggs, who never boxed before conceiving the story of an out-gay champion boxer, went into training to prepare for the role. He found his boxing muse in Michael Onello, who both trained Griggs in pugilism and provided the gym where Killer Queen is being staged.

“Michael turned out to be a huge influence on this show,” Griggs said. “He matched one of the characters in the original script, a coach who didn’t care at all about the fact that this kid was gay.

Michael also has these writings all over the walls at the gym, and I’ve integrated some of those into my piece.”

Onello began his involvement with Killer Queen during its workshop run last year at Mama Calizo’s Voice Factory, and when the new queer collective named THEOFFCENTER became interested in remounting it, Onello suggested putting the boxing show in his Michael the Boxer Gym and Barbershop.

Director Wolfgang Lancelot Wachalovsky liked the idea, noting that Paco’s struggles as a gay man of color within the macho world of boxing can take on greater resonance staged in the “traditionally homophobic space” of an actual boxing ring. The project has also led Onello, Griggs, and several others to create the Empowerment Center Boxing Gym in West Hollywood, with an outreach to at-risk LGBT youths. After its SF run, Killer Queen will reopen May 20 at the Empowerment Center.

Killer Queen not coincidentally is also the name of a rock song written

by Freddie Mercury for Queen.

Both the music of Queen and out rocker Jimmy Somerville play an important role as Paco’s story unfolds through reminiscences, reveries, monologues, and scenes in which Griggs also plays other figures in the boxer’s life and career.

“The play starts at a gym as Paco is talking to a group of people who have come to learn about boxing,” Griggs said. “It also happens to be the anniversary of the day Paco the Pink Pounder won the super middleweight championship belt of the world.”

His stories include his early days as a troubled kid, and an uncle who helps him through tough times.

“Since we only have 90 minutes, we have one boxer to represent Paco’s nemesis. Some of the stories come from boxers who came out after their careers were over. This is sort of a

fantasy, of what might have happened in society if the momentum that was happening in the 1980s hadn’t been stopped by AIDS.” Griggs, who calls himself a “performance activist,” has been involved in numerous theatrical projects that aren’t always high on the mainstream radar. His Burning Monk Collective presented Subrosa: Subliminal Joys … The Ego Outed, a study of gender, race, and shame, at Mama Calizo’s in 2008. Earlier this year he played Stanley Kowalski in A Hand in Desire, a dance-theater remix of A Streetcar Named Desire, in the basement room of an antique store in the Mission.

“I think I’ll probably keep doing social activism work on the stage,” he said. “But when you’re doing that, you do a lot of one-offs and monologues that you’re testing. And you keep on working until you have something you really believe in. This is definitely one of those things.”

More info on Killer Queen is available at www.theoffcenter.org.

‘Vice’ squad If you thought that the recent closing of Pearls Over Shanghai after a 22-month run at the Hypnodrome meant an end to the Cockettes revival, think again. Thrillpeddlers has another Cockettes musical ready to fill the aching hole.

Vice Palace, which had only a Halloween weekend run in 1972 and was the troupe’s final stage presentation, is being revived, revamped, and retooled for its Hypnodrome run beginning April 22. Original Cockettes member and the show’s composer Scrumbly Koldewyn has extensively revised the musical, loosely based on Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Masque of the Red Death,” and it now features selections from several other Cockettes musicals.

Russell Blackwood, leader of the Grand-Guignol-themed Thrillpeddlers, is directing Vice Palace, with Koldewyn at the piano.

The cast includes such familiar Thrillpeddler names as Leigh Crow, Flynn DeMarco, Birdie-Bob Watt, Steven Satyricon, and Tyson Wertz.

Making his Thrillpeddlers debut is Joshua Devore, better known as former porn star Tober Brandt, who has a Best Fetish Performer award under his belt.

Vice Palace is announced for a limited run through July 31. More info at www.thrillpeddlers.com or (800) 838-3006.▼

David Wilson

Steven Satyricon is part of the cast of Vice Palace, a revised version of the Cockettes musical opening at the Hypnodrome.

Richard Dodds can be reached at BARstage@comcast.net.

www.ebar.com

24 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

<< Theatre

April 21-27, 2011

▼

Aspiring in the provinces

by Richard Dodds

C

omedy. Tragedy. Irony. They could be the title characters in Anton Chekhov’s Three Sisters.

Written in 1900 ies that seem to develop with natural languidness rather than the heavy beats of structured drama. As life unfolds in a provincial Russian town, the characters illuminate rather than orate on the human condition of such complicated wiring that sanity must be sustained through ongoing mental trickery. Our happiness, notes one of the characters, must derive from the belief that our actions will provide seeds for true happiness in future generations. It’s a sentiment that can be infinitely played forward.

Berkeley Rep is offering the premiere of a new English version

by Sarah Ruhl, whose In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) also debuted at Berkeley Rep. While an occasional word or phrase strikes an anachronistic tone, this feels like a modestly more casual variation

on the tried-and-true Three Sisters that has enjoyed Englishlanguage popularity for more than a century. Director Les Waters also maintains traditional modulations, resisting temptations to break with Chekhov’s intentions by tightening the pace, though focus can become blurry in this stately production.

Three Sisters is probably most famous for the eponymous characters’ longings for a return to the magical Moscow of their childhood memories. Oldest sister Olga (Wendy Rich Stetson) is a schoolteacher who knows she has missed her chance at marriage. Middle sister Masha (Natalie Payne) is bitter about her teenage marriage to a man she thought an intellectual, who has turned out to be a boring bureaucrat (Keith Reddin). Youngest sister Irina (Heather Wood) is most eager to return to Moscow before agreeing to a loveless marriage when she realizes the return will never happen.

Their main source of merriment in their lackluster town are the soldiers who are frequent guests in

Courtesy of mellopix.com

Natalie Payne, Heather Wood, and Wendy Rich Stetson play the title characters in Chekhov’s Three Sisters at Berkeley Rep.

their home. But it is peacetime, and the garrison is to be moved, further isolating the sisters from civilization they think worthy of their company.

“War is over, leaving a big, empty space to be filled,” says the married lieutenant colonel Vershinin, who has fallen in love with Masha.

Despite the play’s sisterly title, there is also brother Andrei (Alex Moggridge), of equal domestic despair. He has married bumpkinturned-tyrant Natasha (Emily Kitchens), who has taken over the family home and driven away the elderly nanny Anfisa (Barbara Oliver). Ironically, the only characters who might be said to have happy endings are Natasha, who is now ruler of the roost, and the banished Anfisa, who has merrily wound up in a governmentsubsidized apartment.

Despite some enormous set changes that must be made not only during intermission but also between scenes, Annie Smart’s handsome set design accommodates these challenges. In all, this is a production of Three Sisters to be admired while exaltation must remain in distant Moscow.▼ Three Sisters will run at Berkeley Rep through May 22. Tickets are $34-$73. Call (510) 647-2049 or go to www.berkeleyrep.org.

Hellzapoppin’

by Richard Dodds

M

any might argue that reality TV has become hell on Earth, and ACT’s current presentation of Sartre’s No Exit takes a spin on this notion. A production of Canada’s Electric Company Theatre and the Virtual Stage, now making its U.S. debut, displays its main three characters mostly on large video monitors from an offstage room where they have been banished to spend eternity getting on each others’ nerves.

The ACT stage itself is set up as

www.ebar.com

a messy storage room, across which the new arrivals are variously coaxed and dragged into their backstage chamber by a valet in a bellhop uniform – played by Jonathon Young as a kind of bipolar variation on 30 Rock’s cheery NBC page Kenneth.

This video-dominated variation on the 1944 classic play provides both metaphorical static and highdef in the production conceived and directed by Kim Collier. One obvious effect is to remove our visceral connection to flesh-and-blood actors sharing a space together. On the other hand, we get unnerving facial closeups as these eternal roomies realize their situation, admit to their sins, and try to jockey for some sort of power.

And by cloistering the characters out of view, their confinement becomes more intense than if they resided in an onstage set with its auditoriumdeep invisible fourth wall.

In addition to Young as the valet, the three actors playing the Hades newbies hail from the original 2008 Vancouver production. As the preening coward Cradeau, Andy Thompson is suitably oleaginous as he wonders where are the thumbscrews that he expects in hell.

Julian Berz

Laara Sadiq, Lucia Frangione, and Andy Thompson are seen on video monitors during much of a new interpretation of No Exit at ACT.

The wily lesbian Inez is next to arrive, in a shrewd performance by Laara Sadiq. Finally, the glamorous, if murderous, Estelle is hustled in, and Lucia Frangione emits a haughty air of privilege.

The first production of this No Exit wasn’t staged in a traditional theater, but rather in an industrial space in which the audience was seated on both mats and chairs in close proximity to the large video screens.

That may well have heightened the impact of this unconventional interpretation, but even with a respectful nod to the fresh take on a well-worn play, I still prefer the company of live actors – even if one of the characters declares, “Hell is just other people.”▼ No Exit will run through May 1 at ACT. Tickets are $10-$85. Call 7492228 or go to www.act-sf.org.

▼

Film >>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 25

IFC Films

Scene from Simon Rumley’s Red White & Blue.

Texan tea

by David Lamble

I

n one of the more intriguing, disturbing and genuinely thought-provoking new films of the year, British director Simon Rumley’s Red White & Blue (opening Friday at the Roxie Theater), an emotionally damaged, feckless young woman, Erica (Amanda Plummer), ridicules a trick’s suggestion that they use a condom for their motel room oneoff. “Condoms are for homos.” While not a “Macguffin” in the Hitchcock sense, the notion of HIV infection tied to sexual promiscuity is definitely a takeaway in this cleverly constructed “gearshift” movie.

Not up to Psycho in stature, Austin, Texas-set Red White & Blue

if you are invited to play “Whacka-Mole,” only to discover that the little critter’s vanished before you can strike.

The final, Nate-driven part of the story is a more traditionally satisfying, blood-drenched, revengefueled arc that delivers the goods that horror fans have come to expect.

Except it’s not that simple. Before we leave Nate burning a once-precious photo in the desert, we sense that we’ve gotten involved with a critter as elusive and scary as one of De Niro’s great loose-cannon “sickos.”

A generation back, the Britishborn/Australian-raised Noah Taylor lassoed the hearts of wimpykid lovers with the Danny Embling stories: The Year My Voice Broke and

“The notion of HIV infection tied to sexual promiscuity is definitely a takeaway in this cleverly constructed ‘gearshaft’ movie.” does share the grandfather of all modern character-driven horror film’s switcheroo format, whereby we prepare ourselves for identifying with a morally dodgy protagonist, only to have the ground cut out from under her and us. It’s to Rumley’s credit that he switches twice: from the quasi-sympathetic Erica to the brash and impetuous young musician Franki (Marc Senter), to the darkly enigmatic loner Nate (Noah Taylor).

Rumley cradles the first part of the film in a Larry Clark-esque, amoral, suburban American landscape whose grownups have never acquired a trustworthy moral compass. Through the first hour we are teased into expecting a certain kind of story, only to find ourselves whipsawed into another kind. It’s as

Flirting. Destined to be a character actor even in his own star vehicles (in Flirting, Taylor was obliged to share billing with Thandie Newton, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts), the adult Taylor has evolved into a poor man’s John Hurt (without the Quentin Crisp chapter) with an array of scintillating if belowthe-radar eccentrics: a feral but perplexingly human young Hitler in Max; the grumpy den-mother roadie in Cameron Crowe’s rock classic Almost Famous.

Even if character-driven horror is not your cup of tea, catch Red White & Blue for an unparalleled peek at one of our film era’s consummate quick-change artists. Like the younger Eastwood, Taylor can prick your conscience without wallowing in any moral or narrative comfort zone.▼

26 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

<< Fine Arts

April 21-27, 2011

▼

Revisiting a life extinguished

by Sura Wood

T

ake good care of it. It’s my whole life.” Tragically, those words, spoken by Jewish artist Charlotte Salomon to a friend whom she entrusted with her illustrated

autobiographical memoir, turned out to be prophetic. Not long after that exchange, Salomon, a German Jew in her early 20s who had fled Berlin in 1939 for the relative safety of southern France, was picked up by the Gestapo (in 1943), and sent

to her death at Auschwitz. She was 26, newly married and four months pregnant.

Coming of age in Germany as the Nazis rose to power and, later, while in hiding in France, the fear of discovery and death was a daily companion. Events of Salomon’s life passed before her eyes, frame by frame like in a movie, and she desperately sought to retrieve her memories, and document as well as dramatize her experiences, which are contained in the opus she left behind. Titled Charlotte Salomon: Life? or Theatre?, and envisioned by its conceiver as a singspiel, an 18thcentury predecessor to the operetta, complete with dialogue, stage names and musical numbers, it’s also the name of the disquieting, singular exhibition of her unique work now on view at the Contemporary Jewish Museum.

It’s an astonishing show, profoundly sad, artistically extraordinary and an inspiring glimpse of the human spirit under duress, literally and figuratively singing its heart out before its light was extinguished. It’s a truism that extreme circumstances engender powerful works of art, and this is a case that proves the rule. Like The Diary of Anne Frank, we know, as she may have suspected, that she would not survive, which gives the reading of this testimonial to her existence an almost unbearable poignancy.

After arriving in France and initially living with her grandparents, Salomon locked herself away in a hotel, where for months she worked around the clock, feverishly painting over 1,300 gouache paintings, accompanied by a running textual narrative that depicted her childhood and the devastating emotional impact of the rising tide of anti-Semitism in Nazi Germany on her and her wealthy, cultured,

Charlotte Salomon Foundation

Charlotte Salomon, gouache from Life? or Theatre?, 1940-42, Villefranche, France. Collection Jewish Historical Museum, Amsterdam.

assimilated Jewish family; her deepening dread of a foreshortened future; and the torturous, sometimes joyful path to young womanhood expressed in her portrayal of falling in love with her vocal coach, the love of her brief life and a lothario many years her senior. The affair is played out in a real or imagined scenario; as the author, she could write the script and play both parts.

Melancholic by temperament and with a family history of suicide and depression – her mother killed herself when she was nine, an aunt committed suicide, and her grandmother jumped out of a window – Salomon may not have needed the looming terror of the Nazis to feel doomed, but as have many before her, she wrote and painted to stave off her demons, maintain her sanity and save herself in every way a person can be saved, except for the brutal finale that was beyond her control. “Don’t let me go mad,” she writes, plaintively, in one scene, when she learns the true story of her grandmother’s death and the family legacy of suicide. Those revelations, shared with her when she was 23, would be the impetus for starting her last and only major artistic achievement.

An insidious component of the Nazis’ evil genius was their systematic marginalization of the Jews through laws that ostracized and isolated

them, deprived them of their livelihoods, homes and education, and effectively dehumanized them to the point where it became easier to deport and murder them. While the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., for instance, lays out a series of Nazi decrees that banned Jews from participating in society, Salomon’s autobiography illuminates the individual human toll those measures took on a fragile soul and the people she cared about. We see, as she did, her doctor father when he’s informed he will no longer be allowed to practice medicine at the university; a Nazi rally with swastikaemblazoned flags and ecstatic throngs of cheering followers; and the pogrom of Kristallnacht, which led to her father’s arrest. He was eventually released, and her parents, members of the resistance, survived the war.

In her telling self-portraits, Salomon appears defeated, often shrouded in black shadows, her eyes downcast, her body slouched over, her despair palpable. She also recalls happier times with her beloved stepmother Paula Lindberg, a charismatic opera singer, who filled the household with art and music; a trip to Rome where she gazed in wonder at the Sistine Chapel and the Pieta; and skating in the park. She catalogues a vanished life never to See page 31 >>

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 27

28 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

April 21-27, 2011

Linda Eder @ Marines Memorial Theatre

Spread @ SOMArts Cultural Center

Broadway and cabaret singer performs a bigstage concert with Frank Wildhorn; presented

by The Rrazz Room. $49.50-$77.50. 8pm.

Also April 23. 609 Sutter St. 771-6900. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Group exhibition of works by historic local conceptual artists juxtaposed with young new artists. Tue-Fri 12pm-7pm. Sat 12pm5pm. Thru April 27. 934 Brannan St. www.somarts.org

Passion Play @ Live Oak Theatre, Berkeley

Teatro Zinzanni @ Pier 29 Caliente is the new show at the theatre-tentdinner extravaganza, with twin acrobats Ming and Rui, Vertical Tango rope dance, plus magic, comedy, a five-course dinner, and a lot of fun. $117-$145. Saturday 11:30am “Breve” show $63-$78. Wed-Sat 6pm (Sun 5pm). Pier 29 at Embarcadero Ave. 438-2668. www.teatrozinzanni.com

Actors Ensemble performs the West Coast premiere of Sarah Ruhl’s new play about the meaning of devotion, identity and performance, with historic scenes set in Elizabethan England and Nazi Germany. $12-$15. Fri & Sat 7pm. Sun 2pm. Thru May 21. 1310 Shattuck Ave. at Berryman. (510) 649-5999. www.aeofberkeley.org

The Real Americans @ The Marsh Dan Hoyle’s moving and funny solo show, with multiple characters based on Midwesterners on the right and Coasters on the left, asks how a politcially divided America can survive. $25-$35. Fri 8pm, Sat 8:30pm. Thru April 30. 1062 Valencia St. at 22nd. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

San Francisco Int. Film Festival @ Various Venues Events, along with screenings, include panels, workshops, awards and tributes, at various Bay Area theatres thru May 5. www.castrotheatre.com www.fest11.sffs.org

Fri 22 >>

St. John Passion @ St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Oakland

Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet @ Novellus Theater

Choir, soloists and a chamber orchestra perform J.S. Bach’s entire three-hour musical work. Free. 12pm. 114 Montecito Ave., Oakland. www.stpaulsoakland.org

Premiere of new dance work by King, set piece by archictect Christopher Haas (the de Young Museum), and a score by percussionist Mickey Hart. $15-$65. 8pm. Fri-Sat 8pm.

Wed-Thu 7:30pm. Sun 5pm. Post-show Q&As with the artists and other special events through the run. Thru April 24. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St. 978-2787. www.linesballet.org

Talking With Angels @ Royce Gallery

Smith’s Deep Water Dance Theatre and other artists perform Our Daily Bread, a contemplative performance-dance work about the rituals of food, fast food culture, agribusiness and traditions of eating. $15-$22.

Thu-Sun 8pm. Thru April 24.

1310 Mission St. (800) 8383006. www.CounterPulse.org

Didik Nini Thowok @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

Fri 22 Vice Palace @ Hypnodrome Thrillpeddlers, the fabulous ensemble that brought us Pearls Over Shanghai and Hot Greeks, now brings forth the last Cockettes musical (which originally starred Divine and Mink Stole), the saucy 1972 revue of songs and sordid silliness, a very loose Fellini-esque parody of Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death. $30-$35. Fri & Sat 8pm Sun 7pm. 575 10th st. at Bryant/Division.

Thru July 31. www.thrillpeddlers.com

Jonathan Poretz @ The Rrazz Room Enjoy retro-modern lounge song stylings with the local crooner. $25. 10:20pm. 2-drink minimum. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. at Ellis.

(800) 380-3095. www.therrazzroom.com

Shelley Mitchell’s solo play tells of multiple characters searching for meaning and survival in Nazi-occupied Hungary. $21-$35. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru May 21. 2901 Mariposa St. at Harrison. www.talkingwithangels.com www.roycegallery.com

Amara Tabor Smith @ CounterPulse

Teresa Gowan @ Booksmith

Fri 22 The Lily’s Revenge @ Magic Theatre

Sat 23 >>

The always entertaining Shotgun Play-ers present playwright Jason Craig andd composer Dave Malloy’s commissionedd new play, a unique rock musical varia-tion on the story of Rasputin. $17-$26..

Thu-Sat 8pm, Sun 5pm (Wed 7pm starting rting April 6). Thru April 24. 1901 Ashby Ave. e.

(510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org s.org

The Eccentricities of a Nightingale @ Aurora Theatre, Berkeley Tennessee Williams’ fascinating 1976 revision of his 1951 play Summer and Smoke. $10-$45. Tue 7pm. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm & 7pm. Thru May 8. 2081 Addison St. www.auroratheatre.org

Housewarming Party @ Intersection for the Arts Grand opening party and auction for the arts space in its new location, with live music food, drink, dancing, new exhibits and an art auction. $20. 6pm-9pm. 925 Mission St. at 5th. www.theintersection.org

Mon 25 Veronica Klaus @ The Rrazz Room Local chanteuse sings the music of Peggy Lee with the Tammy Hall Trio. $27.50.

8pm. Also April 26. 2-drink minimum.

Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. at Ellis. (800) 380-3095. www.therrazzroom.com

John Waters Films @ Castro Theatre Celebrate the birthday of the gay director at screenings of some of his classic films, all (but one) starring the immortal Divine. April 22, Pink Flamingos (7:30pm) and Female Trouble (9:35pm). April 23, Desperate Living (3:45 & 7:15pm) and Polyester (2pm, 5:30, 9pm). April 24, Hairspray (3:20 & 7pm) and Serial Mom (1:25, 5:05pm, & 8:45). $7:50-$10. 429 Castro st. 621-6350. www.castrotheatre.com

Boxcar Theatre’s one-night revue of the seedier side of Broadway tune, with songs from Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, West Side Story, The Rocky Horror Show, Hedwig and the Angry Inch and more; proceeds benefit the upcoming production of Little Shop of Horrors. $22-$26. 8pm. 125A Hyde St. www.boxcartheatre.org

Sun 24 >> Easter Celebration @ Dolores Park The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence’s annual party in the park brings drag acts, live bands, the Easter bonnet and Hunky Jesus contests to thousands of fans. Titled “Old Habits Dye Hard,” this year takes on a groovy 60s theme.

Acts include Planet Booty, The Cockettes, Boylesque; MCs Holly DeVille, Mutha Chucka and La Monistat. Kids’ Easter egg hunt 11am.

Free/donations. 1pm-5pm. 18th St. at Dolores. www.thesisters.org

Interview show with gay writer Adam Sandel as host. 8pm. www.EnergyTalkRadio.com

Q Easter Swing & Show @ Milk Bar The Queer Jitterbugs present a special Easter-themed ‘Bunny Burlesque Battle,’ a mixed weekly night of social dancing to DJed and (twice monthly) live music. $3-$15.

8:30-11pm, lesson 8:30pm. 1840 Haight St. at Stanyan. (415) 305-8242. www.QueerJitterbugs.com

SF Hiking Club @ Mount Diablo

Rita Moreno and Lemony Snicket (Daniel Handler) entertain at a laish dinner gala for the acclaimed theatre company, attended by local celebrities, with a silent auction. $500.

5:30pm reception, 7:30pm dinner. 765 Market St. (510) 647-2909. www.berkeleyrep.org

Pastor Tom Show @ Live365.com

Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room

Weekly LGBT-themed talk show; archived shows available, too. www.Live365.com

Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the fabulous weekly brunch and drag show. $45.

11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square.

395-8595. www.harrydenton.com

Textural Rhythms @ Museum of the African Diaspora Constructing the Jazz Tradition, Contemporary African American Quilts, a new exhibit of quilts by the Women of Color Quilters Network that visualize jazz artists. $5-$10.

Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. Thru April 24. 685 Mission St. at 3rd. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org

Join The T Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence at a benefit for ORAM, the and Garza G Organization for Refugee Asylum Or & Migration, with DJ Ken Vulsion (Honey Soundsystem) and Ethel (H Merman and many drag acts. 8pm.

Mer Also, Sunday, April 24, Easter in the Park after-party, 6pm. Market St. at Noe. after www.thesisters.org www www.cafeflore.com www

Th Darker Side The of Broadway @ Boxcar Theatre

Betty’s List and Connexions for Women present a monthly lesbian singles event, with chef Irene Hendrick preparing a delicous brunch. $25. 11am-1pm. Details with reservation confirmation. Optional Sexy City Trour afterward.

503-1375. www.bettyslist.com

Join GLBT hikers for a 9-mile hike at Mt. Diablo’s Mitchell Canyon. This hike circles Eagle Peak and Twin Peaks through beautiful forest and open spaces. Spring should show many colorful wildflowers. Bring water, lunch, sunscreen, hat, layers, sturdy boots.

Carpool meets 8:45 at Safeway sign, Market & Dolores. 864-2275. www.sfhiking.com

Onstage @ Four Seasons

The Dance of the 7 Veiled Nuns @ Café Flore Vei

Fri 22

Women’s Singles Brunch @ Castro Location

Happy Hour @ Energy Talk Radio

Musi comedy revue, now in its 35th Musical year, with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in politi gigantic wigs. $25-$130. Wed, Thu, Fri at gigan 8pm. Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm.

(Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach (Beer Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421Blank 4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com 4222

San Francisco premiere of Keith Bunin’s ’s drama about a minister who finds her faith at odds with her estranged son. $24-$40.

0. WedSat 8pm. Sun 2pm, thru May 1. 25 Vann Ness Ave at Market St., lower level. 861-5019.

19.

8972. www.nctcsf.org

Sarah Ruhl’s re-written version of Anton Chekhov’s classic drama. Opening night April 13. $14.50-$73. Tue-Fri,Thu, Sat 8pm. Wed 7pm. Thu, Sat, Sun 2pm. Sun 7pm. Thru May 22. Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St. at Shattuck. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Concert of Spanish music and dance featuring singer Rafael de Utrera, dancers El Torombo and Encarnacion “La Paloma,” and others. $35-$74. 7pm. 609 Sutter St. 771-6900. www.marinesmemorialtheatre.com

Bea Blanket Babylon Beach @C Club Fugazi

The Busy World is Hushed ed @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

Three Sisters @ Berkeley Rep

Flamenco de Raiz @ Marines Memorial Theatre

Author of Hobos, Hustlers and Backsliders: Homeless in San Francisco discusses her investigative essays on 38 homeless men. 7pm. At 8pm, Homeless Youth Alliance members discuss Through Our Eyes: The Cameras Were Disposable But Our Lives Aren’t. 1644 Haight St. www.booksmith.com

Playwright-performer Taylor Mac’s large-scale hybrid vaudeville, drag, perTwelfth Night formance theatre music extravaganza with dozens of performers explores Indonesian transgender marriage, Prop 8 and other issues with high-styled drag and lavish settings. @ Buriel Clay performer brings a fascinatDinner, wine and beverages available during show. $20-$75. Tue-Sat 7pm.

Theatre ing blend of traditional and Also Sun 2:30pm. Bldg. D, Fort Mason Center, Marina Blvd at Buchanan St. African American ShakeA modern performing tehcniques Thru May 22.441-8822. www.theoffcenter.org www.magictheatre.org sspeare Company performs to explore gender variance in TThe Bard’s most popular today’s, and ancient, cultures comedy, re-set in the 1940s c (Presented in association with San Francisco’s club scene. $15-$35. Sat the Asian Art Museum, with a show there Into the Clear Blue Sky 8pm, Sun 3pm. Thru May 1. 762 Fulton St. at April 23, 1pm; 200 Larkin St. 581-3500).

Webster. (800) 838-3006. @ Phoenix Theater Proceeds benefit NCTC’s youth programs. www.AfricanAmericanShakes.org J.C., Lee’s post-apocalyptic drama where New $28-$38. 8pm (Sun 2pm). Thru April 24. 25 Jersey-ites flee a melting earth for the moon.

Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972.

Xanadu @ $15-$17. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru April 30. 414 www.nctcsf.org Mason St. at Geary.

Retrodome, San Jose Bay Area National Dance www.sleepwalkerstheatre.com Touring production of the mirthful muse-filled musical comedy based on the strangely Week @ Various Venues lovable film, complete with roller-skating lovab Annual festival of 600-plus dance perforfordisco numbers set to the original music, and a mances, classes, demos and more. Kickoff koff script that takes a satirical edge. $24-$44. Fri event in Union Square Park, April 22, 12pm at & Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Extended thru May 8.

Powell St. at Geary. Other events take place 1694 Saratoga Ave. (408) 404-7711. throughout the Bay Area thru May 1. www.TheRetroDome.com www www.bayareandw.org

Beardo @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley

▼

Mon 25 >> Marga’s Funny Mondays @ The Marsh, Berkeley

Fri 22 Wirehead @ SF Playhouse Benjamin Brown’s dark satire about people who get brain implants to make them geniuses, and the strange results that occur. $30-$50. Thu-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 3pm. Thru April 23. 533 Sutter St. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org

Marga Gomez, “the lesbian Lenny Bruce” (Robin Williams), brings her comic talents, and special guests to a weekly cabaret show; this week, Karina Dobbins, Beth Schumann and Colleen Watson. $10. 8pm.

2120 Allston Way. (800) 838-3006. www. margagomez.com www.themarsh.org

Past & Present @ Castro Country Club Group exhibit of photos of visitors and organizers of the Castro sober space’s 28 o year ye history. Thru May 31. 4058 18th St. 552-6102. www.castrocountryclub.org 5

▼

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 29

Pinot & Poetry @ Blush Wine Bar

Our Vast Queer Past @ GLBT History Museum

Guy Writers hosts a reading and wine-tasting, with poets Dan Bellm, Brent Calderwood, Randal Mann and James J. Siegel, with host Baruch Porras-Hernandez. 8pm. No cover, onedrink minimum. 476 Castro St. at 18th. www.guywritersonline.org www.blushwinebar.com

New exhibit from the GLBT Historical Society, with a wide array of rare historic items on display. Free for members-$5.

Wed-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-5pm.

4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org

Tim Hockenberry Band @ The Rrazz Room Veteran singer-pianist with a husky voice performs with his band. $25. 8pm.

2-drink minimum. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. at Ellis. (800) 380-3095. www.therrazzroom.com

Stonewall Uprising @ PBS American Experience broadcasts Kate Davis and David Heilbroner’s documentary about the events that led to the riot at New York’s Stonewall Inn, and the expansion of gay liberation. 9pm. www.kqued.org www.pbs.org

Tom Shaw Trio @ Martuni’s Guerrilla Cabaret, a night of wild jazz, blues, Latin open mic singing and finger-snapping fun. $5. 7pm.

4 Valencia St. at Market. 241-0205. www.dragatmartunis.com

Ten Percent @ Comcast 104 David Perry’s new talk show about LGBT local issues. Mon-Fri 11:30am & 10:30pm, Sat & Sun 10:30pm. www.davidperry.com

Tom Schmidt @ LGBT Center

Thu 28

Sons of God, an exhibit of stunning allegorical male nude photos. Exhibit thru May 13. 1800 Market St. at Octavia. www.sfcenter.org

Deven & Joel @ Main Street Theatre Comedy duo Deven Green (aka “Betty Bowers, America’s Best Christian” and her husband, TV actor Joel Bryant, share a laugh-filled bill. $12. 7pm & 9pm. Also April 29, 7pm & 9pm. 915 Cayuga Ave. 317-6411. www.devenandjoel.com

Tue 26 >> Cryptecology @ Visual Aid Group exhibit of works by four artists combining nature and other themes; curated

by Gary Weiss and Jeff Shipley of Ixia florist shop. Tue-Fri 2pm-6pm or by appointment.

Thru May 31. 57 Post St. www.visualaid.org

Signs of the Times @ Robert Tat Gallery Exhibit of photographs of vintage signs throughout America. Tue-Sat 11am-5:30pm.

Thru May 28. 49 Geary St. Suite 410. 7811122. www.roberttat.com

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gayfriendly comedy night. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Walt Whitman’s Calamus Poems and the Radical Faeries, curated

by Joey Cain; an exhibit of the gay poet’s influence on contemporary queer culture. Thru May 19. James C. Hormel Gay & Lesbian Center, 100 Larkin St. third floor. www.sfpl.org

C Celebrated bestselling author of Bird by Bird and other works discusses her writB ing. Proceeds benefit the Park Day School. in $$30-$30. 7pm. 2640 College Ave. (510) 6653-0317. www.ParkDaySchool.org

D Dining Out for Life @ Various Restaurants Stop AIDS Project’s annual fundraiser, St where part of your dinner bill goes to the HIV prevention nonprofit. Enjoy a tasty meal at any of 90 restaurants while helping out a good cause. www.diningoutforlife.com/ sanfrancisco

Hot Draw @ Mark I. Chester Studio

Judy Grahn, Anne Carol Mitchell @ El Rio CD release party for Sound of Word, lesbian poet’s collaborative music work with Mitchell. $5-$10.

8:30pm. 3158 Mission St. at Csar Chavez. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Kenny Mencher @ ArtHaus

Lambda Literary Award Finalists @ SF Public Library

A Anne Lamott @ Julia Morgan Theatre, Berkeley

Gay male drawing group with hot sexy models doing erotic poses.

Reserve a space day of session.

6:30-9:30pm. 1229 Folsom St. 621-6294. www.markichester.com/ hotdraw (NSFW!)

In Paths Untrodden @ SF Public Library

Renovated Reputations, an exhibit of paintngs coordinated with his online flash fiction contest. The local painter’s faux-retro themes and style are unique yet reminiscent of an era gone by. Thru June 25. Tue-Fri 11am6pm. Sat 12pm-5pm. 411 Brannan St. at 3rd. 977-0223. kenney-mencher.blogspot.com/

Thu 28 >>

Killer Queen @ Michael’s Boxing Gym

Sat 23

Off-Center presents Peter Griggs’ unique solo show, The Story of Paco the Pink Pounder, about a gay boxer with a penchant for Freddy Mercury is restaged at the intimate SoMa boxing gym. $20. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm Thru May 8. 96 Lafayette St. at Howard. www.theoffcenter.org

Blowoff @ Slim’s

Lucinda Childs Dance @ Novellus Theatre

Readings by nominees in the 23rd Bob Mould and Rich Morel return with their groovy dance annual LGBT awards, including Lucy night; popular with bears, but everyone’s welcome.

Jane Bledsoe, Malena Watrous, Enjoy dazzling visuals, electro, house and rock mixes. $15.

Greg Hewett, Jen Currin, Justin Hall, 10pm-2am. 333 11th St. www.blowoff.us Deborah Cohler, Erik Orrantia, Adam www.slimstickets.com Haslett, Jon Macy, Karin Kallmaker, Lucas Noach Dzmura, S. Bear Bergman, Kathy Briccetti, Meredith Maran, and Zelda Lockhart. Free.

5pm recepton, 6pm reading. Latino/Hispanic Singing Classes @ La Peña Meeting Room, lower level, 100 Larkin St. at Culterual Center, Berkeley Market. www.lambdaliterary.org Fun, non-competitive singing workshop for www.sfpl.org LGBTs, led by Eli Conley. $200 (sliding scale) Mark Johnson @ Magnet for two months. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. 3105 Montgomery-Ward and the Office Adonis, Shattuck Ave. www.eliconley.com the artist’s exhibit of retro ad-inspired art.

8pm-10pm. Thru April. 4122 18th St. at Castro. 581-1613. www.magnetsf.org

Wed 27 >> Geezer @ The Marsh

Veteran clown and actor Geoff Hoyle’s witty solo show about his young life in England and his ruminations on aging. $25-$50. Wed & Thu, 8pm.

Sat & Sun 5pm. Thru July 10.

1062 Valencia St. at 22nd. (800) 838-5750. www.themarsh.org

John O’Reilly, Reed Danziger @ Hosfelt Gallery

Thu 28 NoH8 Campaign @ W Hotel Adam Bouska brings his photo session where you can pose with duct tape over your mouth in a white-glossed photo for the image-oriented project aimed at raising awareness for marriage equality and anti-discrimination. $40 single, $25 per person for a gorup photos. 6pm-9pm, with two cash bars in the Great Room.

181 3rd St. www.noh8campaign.com www.wsanfrancisco.com

Dual exhibit of homoerotic saint and wrestler montages by O’Reilly, and abstracts

by Danziger. Thru May. 430 Clementina St. 495-5454. www.hosfeltgallery.com

The King’s Speech, Black Swan @ Castro Theatre

Acclaimed minimalist modern dance choreographer’s landmark work Dance is performed with Philip Glass (recorded and live), with original visual work by Sol LeWitt. $30-$60. 8pm. Also April 29, 30 and a recital by Glass April 30, 3pm. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St. 392-2545. www.sfperformances.org www.ybca.org

Oleta Adams @ The Rrazz Room Cabaret and classic song concert by the legendary singer. $49.50. 8pm. Also April 29, 8pm, and April 30, 7pm & 9:30pm. 2-drink minimum. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. at Ellis.

(800) 380-3095. www.therrazzroom.com

Paulette Nichols @ SF Eagle Folk/anti-folk comedy rock singer performs at the historic leather bar. 9pm. 398 12th st.

626-0880. www.sfeagle.com

Spring Art Auction @ Chronicle Books Swell-egant event with cocktails, hors d’ouevres and beacoups artwork for sale, plus luxury items from hotels, restuarants, spas, theatres, yoga studios, museums and shops; champagne and chocolate-tasting after-party. $45-$100. 5:30pm-9pm.

680 Second St. www.visualaid.org

To submit event listings, email jim@ebar.com.

Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication.

Enjoy two Oscar-winning films in one night. King’s at 3pm, 5:30, 8pm. Swan at 2pm, 4:30, 7pm, 9:05. $10. 429 Castro st. www.castrotheatre.com

Marga Gomez @ The Marsh Award-winning lesbian Latina comic gives us a sneak peek at her new show, Not Getting Any Younger. $10-$35. Wed & Thu 8pm. Sat 8:30pm. Thru April 30. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

For more b bar and d nightlife i htli liff events, go to www.bartabsf.com

www.ebar.com

30 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

<< Leather+

April 21-27, 2011

▼

Sara Vibes is Internat’l Ms. Leather 2011

by Scott Brogan

I

t was a packed crowd inside the Emerald Ballroom at the SF Golden Gate Holiday Inn this past Saturday that cheered when NYC’s Sara Vibes won the title of International Ms. Leather (IMsL) 2011 and “kd” won International Ms. Bootblack (IMsBB) 2011. The 25th anniversary of IMsL lived up to the hype and delivered a weekend packed with activities, fun and naughty frolicking by the most diverse group of attendees you’re apt to find anywhere. I really don’t envy the judges who have to choose one winner out of such stellar contestants. All eight contestants competing for the two titles were more than qualified and worthy.

Competing with Vibes for IMsL were Jessi Strucaly of Pittsburgh, Tamale of Chicago, and SF’s Tracy Wolf (1st Runner-Up). Competing with “kd” for IMsBB were Margaret of Baltimore, Luna of NYC and slave tabitha (1st Runner-Up) of Phoenix. All of the IMsL contestants excelled in the categories of Personal Interview, Fantasy, Speech, Heart and Soul (“Sole” for the bootblacks), and Hotwear/Pop Question (delivered with flair by emcees Queen Cougar and “Darryl”).

The highlights for me were the fantasies (big surprise). They entertained and excited the crowd with: Vibes’ “tour” of NYC (with the spanking/collaring of a cute Statue of Liberty); Wolf ’s taking control of a male chef ’s kitchen (with cucumber and oversized carrots); Tamale’s sexy strip to Pink’s “Raise Your Glass”; and Strucaly’s cruise/domination scene. Strucaly also delivered the most moving and passionate contestant speech of the night, opening up about her journey from misunderstood young boy to recovered addict to leather woman.

She eloquently stated: “I may not

Scott Brogan

IMsBB Runner-Up slave tabitha, IMsL Runner-Up Tracy Wolf, IMsL 2011 winner Sara Vibes and IMsBB winner “kd” pose for pics at last week’s 25th anniversary IMsL contest in San Francisco.

have walked the same path, but I know where you’ve been.”

Speaking of speeches, outgoing IMsL Mollena Williams and IMsBB Jayson DaBoi also delivered. Williams gave the most heartfelt step-aside speech I’ve ever witnessed, centered on the very real issue of sexual consent, how it’s so blatantly ignored, and the ramifications.

It takes a small army to put on an event of this size.

Producers Glenda Rider, tomo and Ms. Rhonda excelled in bringing together a staff that ensured the weekend’s success. Next year’s weekend will be March 29-April 1, here in SF. Go to: www.imsl.org for details.

Steven Guenther is Renegade 2011 Just a week prior to IMsL, a contest of a different kind took place at the Cat Club in SoMa. Back for a second year, producer Paul Miller’s Renegade 2011 was a blast.

Sexy contestants Steven (Truck),

Scott Brogan

Renegade 2011 winner Steven Guenther shows off his attributes at the Renegade 2011 contest in San Francisco April 8.

Rex (SF Eagle), Chuey (Seattle Eagle), and Joshua (Powerhouse) had some competition from the hottest, sexiest audience I’ve seen in a long time. It helped that two See page 31 >>

Coming up in leather and kink Thu., Apr. 21: Meet & Greet the Bare Chest Calendar Finalists at The Powerhouse (1347 Folsom), 9:30 p.m.-Midnight. Benefits AEF & PRC. Go to: www.barechest.org.

Thu., Apr. 21: Locker Room Thursdays at Kok Bar SF (1225 Folsom). 9 p.m.-close. Jockstraps, sports gear, wrestling singles, etc. Free clothes check.

Hotwire on deck. Go to: www.kokbarsf.com.

All you can drink Bud Light or Rolling Rock drafts.

5-9 p.m. Go to: www.kokbarsf.com.

Sun., Apr. 24: Castrobear presents Sunday Furry Sunday at 440 Castro. 4-10 p.m. Go to: www.castrobear.com.

Sun., Apr. 24: PoHo Sundays at the Powerhouse.

DJ Keith, Dollar Drafts all day. Go to: www.powerhouse-sf.com.

Thu., Apr. 21: Give up the Bootie!: Anal Play 101 presented by Rain Degrey at the SF Citadel (1277 Mission). 8-10 p.m. $20. Go to: www.sfcitadel.org.

Mon., Apr. 25: Trivia Night with host Casey Ley at Truck. 8-10 p.m. Prizes and ridiculous questions. Go to: www.trucksf.com.

Fri., Apr. 22: Strip hosted by and benefiting the Stop AIDS Project at Kok Bar SF. $5 cover, Cheap Ass contest at 1 a.m. $100 prize. Enter contest at 11 p.m.

Go to: www.kokbarsf.com.

Mon., Apr. 25: Happy Hour After Gym at Kok Bar SF. Mondays are all-day happy hour; $2.75 on all beer & well drinks. Go to: www.kokbarsf.com.

Fri., Apr. 22: Truck Wash at Truck (1900 Folsom).

10 p.m.-close. Live shower boys and drink specials.

Go to: www.trucksf.com.

Mon., Apr. 25: Whip Works: Monthly Singletail Peer Group facilitated by Daddy Darin at the SF Citadel. 8-10 p.m. Doors at 7:30 p.m. $10. Go to: www. sfcitadel.org.

Sat., Apr. 23: Back Bar Action at the Eagle Tavern (398 12th St.), back patio and bar open to all gear/fetish/leather. 10 p.m. to close. Go to: www.sfeagle.com.

Tue., Apr. 26: Use Your Words: Talking Dirty presented by Tina Horn at the SF Citadel. 8-10 p.m.

Doors at 7:30 p.m. $20. Go to: www.sfcitadel.org.

Sat., Apr. 23: Boot Lickin’ at the Powerhouse, 10 p.m. Go to: www.powerhouse-sf.com.

Tue., Apr. 26: Busted at Truck. 9 p.m.-close. $5 beer bust from 9-11 p.m. Great music, notorious Truck boys. Go to: www.trucksf.com.

Sat., Apr. 23: Invasion: A Queer Takeover of the SF Citadel hosted by Asher and Char. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. $25 or volunteer for an hour to get in free. Citadel membership required ($10/year). Go to: www.sfcitadel.org, e-mail sfcitadelinvasion@gmail.com to volunteer.

Sat., Apr. 23: 15 Association Men’s Dungeon BDSM Play Party at the SF Citadel. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. $25 plus invitation. For invitation and details go to: www.the15association.org.

Sun., Apr. 24: Beer Bust Sundays at Kok Bar SF.

Tue., Apr. 26: Ink & Metal followed by Nasty at the Powerhouse. 9 p.m. Go to: www.powerhouse-sf. com.

Wed., Apr. 27: Leather Buddies at Blow Buddies, a male-only club. Doors, 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Play til late.

Go to: www.blowbuddies.com.

Wed., Apr. 27: SoMa Men’s Club. Every Wed., the SoMa Clubs (Powerhouse, Truck, Lone Star, Hole in the Wall, Eagle, Kok Bar SF) have specials for those who wear the Men’s Club dogtags.

▼

Karrnal >>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 31

Cock connection

by John F. Karr

L

ast May I wrote about the kinky fun of LucasEntertainment’s Men in Stockings. And then, for nearly a full year, I didn’t see a single LucasEnt movie. I was bereft, since during that time I knew I was missing all nine of the movies that Adam Killian, the Chita Rivera of porn, made with the company (his 10th, Assassin, is imminent). So that Karrnal can katch up on Killian and the splendid kastmates LucasEnt engages, I’m going to spend two weeks reporting on those movies I’d missed. They may not be current, but I’d like to comment on the LE house style, which has come to dependably embody intangible qualities of sexual performance that regularly elude most sexographers.

I recently called a movie “proficient, professional, vacant.”

Justification for that cold assessment came when I saw over a half-dozen LucasEnt flicks in which nearly every scene rises way above the industry’s complacent norm. Since LE employs many of the same guys we see performing less successfully at other companies, this quality can only be racked up to the director. In the case of LE, that’s almost entirely Mr. Pam (hate that nom de porn – it’s a joke that hardly dignifies the quality of her work). She somehow encourages her performers to such depth of connection, intense sharing of sexuality, and, especially, palpable friendliness.

These scenes don’t consist of porn stars “working,” as they love to say, with each other, with the usual result that does indeed look like work proficient and professional.

Most all of Pam’s scenes elicit a depth of concentration and connection between performers, resulting in passion that’s not acted. Her performers really get off on playing together.

So. Killian’s first movie at LucasEnt was the brightly sunny Heatwave, with a follow-up of the more compulsively moody Sex Addict.

Heatwave runs just under three generous hours; its five extended scenes were filmed on location around New York in the steamy summertime: Christopher Street park, Coney Island, Fire Island, and a rooftop terrace which we find out later is Michael Lucas’ penthouse

<<

Leather + From page 30

of the main sponsors were Mr. S Leather and Naked Sword. Thanks partly to their involvement, Yours Truly enjoyed the youthful, energetic nastiness onstage and off. Guenther’s intoxicating smile and hot body, not to mention his tasty ass, probably helped ensure his victory. At the risk of sounding like a chicken hawk, I must say that he’s a charmer. Thank you, Paul and Co., for another great night of irreverent fun.

As everyone knows by now, after

<<

Fine Arts From page 26

be revisited, except in memory and dreams.

Laid out sequentially like a storyboard and similar to the experience of turning pages in a book, the story is divided into three parts: prologue, main section and epilogue. To follow along, one matches a number below each of the 300 paintings with corresponding text that’s translated into English.

(The original pages are too fragile

(ah, mon pauvre pornographer!).

Throughout, Heatwave capitalizes on boners bulging inside a fashion parade of itty-bitty Rufskin swimwear. It opens with a galvanizing, hard-to-beat scene with Adam Killian and Parker London.

Adam’s always a voracious and convivial performer, and so is 25-year-old, husky London. They’re a lascivious and luminous pair, with byplay that’s fresh, surprising, and all their own. The array of arousals Killian lays on London during an extended period before a brash fucking (he’s an especially creative rimmer) are so much more spontaneous and exciting than the standard suck/rim/ fuck. And, then, oh man – they flip, and Killian gives up his hard-to-slake honey-hole.

Next up, the typically phlegmatic Jeremy Bilding gets a goose from John Magnum’s saucy playfulness.

When Bilding cups Magnum’s bodacious booty in his hands, he laughs out loud at the bounty of it all, and visibly thrills when he lays back and finds his cock disappearing deeply within those bosomy cheeks as Magnum rides his cock. And though most of Bilding’s spunk flies across Magnum’s face, some nice globs land within Magnum’s

beseeching lips. The pair may not be on par with Killian/London, but they enjoy each other, and that’s special.

In a similar fashion, Junior Stellano raptures Spencer Reed in a scene of fuck-bunny madness. Jr.’s a muscular wonder to watch as he’s fucked. And could Reed’s swimsuit be any smaller? In another scene, Zack Alexander shows how to enjoy cock-riding a tool as large as Rafael Alencar’s. Only Rod Daily is the old proficient-and-professional, but that’s leavened by funky partner Patrick Logan.

While Sex Addict exchanges serendipitous frolic for compulsive sex-grab, the performer’s savory, taut connection remains the same. The hottest scene is, natch, Mr. Killian with John Magnum as his love-drug.

To their typical enthusiasm they add in this scene a whole lotta nasty.

Killian loves licking the taste of his own cock or ass off Magnum’s lips, and the advanced skill he shows in his appreciation and treatment of Magnum’s beautiful asshole veers heavily into rude. He makes sure his cock slams into Magnum as far as possible. And then they flip.

Other more-than-usually successful scenes of Sex Addict pair Jeremy Bilding with young hottie Ricky Martinez, and the Latinate butch of tattooed Alexsander Freitag with lean twinkish slut Jake Steel.▼

30 years as an SF institution, the Eagle announced they would be closing at the end of this month.

The details are convoluted and have to do with transfer of ownership and gentrified greed (as I like to call it). But thanks to the town hall meeting spearheaded by Anna Conda and attended by over 300 people including mayoral candidate Bevin Dufty; a Board of Supervisors meeting; the support of Supervisors Scott Weiner and Jane Kim; and a sit-in at the possible new owner’s straight bar Skylark by a platoon of leatherfolk, the Eagle’s manager Ron

announced that the bar will now stay open for another month, through the end of May. No word on what might happen after May. International Mr. Leather (IML) has announced a slight change in the judging panel for this May’s contest in Chicago: Dan Savage has stepped down, replaced by Douglas Connors of Ottawa, Ontario. Connors was previously one of the Tally Masters.

Jay Harcourt of Austin, Texas is replacing Connors in the Tally Master role. IML weekend is May 27-30. I don’t think I need to reiterate what a great time it is!▼

to travel.) In early sections that detail how her parents met and the suicide of the aunt who was her namesake, the images’ bluish cast betrays a premonition of darkness and a sensation of being underwater.

Though she was the only Jew admitted to art school in Berlin, Salomon had little formal training.

Nonetheless, she shows herself to be a master of mood and conflictizng, layered emotions, with an added gift for complex composition and multiple stories transpiring in a single picture.

She painted the project’s last sections furiously with frenzied brushstrokes – bodies in outline defy gravity and float through the air a la Chagall – as if she sensed time was running out. And she was right.

Too soon, a brilliant creative fire was snuffed out by the machinery of pure evil.▼

www.LucasEntertainment.com

Charlotte Salomon: Life? or Theatre? Through July 31 at the Contemporary Jewish Museum, SF. Info: www.thecjm.com or (415) 655-7800.

www.ebar.com

32 • BAY AREA REPORTER •

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

April 21-27, 2011

▼

San Francisco Film Society

Scene from Patricio Guzman’s Nostalgia for the Light: tracing DNA from the Big Bang.

<<

ebar.com

SFIFF 2011 From page 21

advantageous to be gay, going to art school, being in the New York art scene. But I never really felt that was what I was. At the same time, I can often identify with gay guys more than straight gays as far as sensibility, interests and friendships with women.”

With Beginners, Mills employs the wit, precision for telling complicated personal stories with a great acting ensemble, and, yes, the peculiar straight-boy sensitivity to queer issues he displayed with his 2005 debut feature Thumbsucker, to embed us inside an arid marriage of convenience, seen from the point of view of a scared little boy who grows up to be a relationship-phobic adult man.

In slapdash flashbacks, we see the boy becoming a substitute partner for his mood-swinging mom, who doesn’t get enough from her artmuseum curator, deeply closeted husband. In the film’s present tense, Dad (wonderful Christopher Plummer) bursts forth and embraces gay life with gusto, including timesharing a much younger boyfriend.

Ewan McGregor, as the grown son, fusses and frets as dad shrugs off stage-four cancer. “There’s no stage five.” (Castro Theatre, opening night, 4/21) Meek’s Cutoff Kelly Reichardt has spent a profitable decade exploding myths about male friendship (Old Joy), homeless drifters (Wendy and Lucy), and now, in her third feature, she gives us a female-driven, preCivil War anti-Western. Inspired by the diaries of women traveling in wagons along the Oregon Trail circa 1845, Reichardt plants us down

among disoriented settler families who suspect their guide has got them dangerously lost. Executed by a top-flight indie cast – Michelle Williams, Bruce Greenwood and Paul Dano – the film, framed in the classic, square-box aspect ratio of pre-WWII Westerns, focuses on the unceasing monotony of the journey.

Reichardt sets up one powerful scene where Williams’ skeptical pioneer woman expresses her disdain for Meek’s lecherous braggadocio.

“We’re not lost, we’re just finding our way.”

“You don’t need to patronize me, Mr. Meek” “Now I think you’re flirting with me.”

“You don’t know much about women, do you, Stephen Meek?”

“Women are created on the principle of chaos: the chaos of creation, disorder bringing new things into the world. Men are created on the principle of destruction: chaos and destruction, two genders always at it.” (Kabuki, 4/22, 25) Nostalgia for the Light Set in Chile’s austerely beautiful and bone-dry Atacama Desert, Patricio Guzman’s film casts an ironic yet tender eye on two sets of searchers: astronomers who employ powerful telescopes to probe the origins of the universe, literally tracing DNA from the Big Bang; and the nowelderly female relatives of the 60,000 persons disappeared by the Pinochet dictatorship in the 1970s, people whose remains were buried in the desert or scattered at sea. A moving moment finds a still-grieving mother wishing that the huge telescopes could be pointed down to find the bones of her murdered son. Juxtaposing the metallic rumble of the huge telescopes with the pilgrim-like behavior of the mothers, Guzman reveals a place at the top of the world where science and spirituality find a harmonic convergence. (Kabuki, 4/26; PFA, 4/28)

Troll Hunter Norwegian Andre Ovredal’s cheeky parody of The Blair Witch Project finds a plucky band of college filmmakers getting in way over their heads as they uncover a secret government project to exterminate large, hairy creatures terrorizing local sheep-herders.

With a wry eye on government disinformation programs, the filmmakers manage to find that elusive cinema “G” spot between funny and scary. (Kabuki, 4/23; New People, 4/25) The Future In her deliciously whimsical second film, Miranda July (Me and You and Everyone We Know) concocts a universe bizarrely organic to her native Berkeley, where a young couple becomes virtually immobilized at the prospect of adopting an injured kitten from an animal shelter, whose stern spokeswoman reminds them to fetch their cuddly furball by its due date. “We euthanize!” (Kabuki, 4/23; New People, 4/24) Cave of Forgotten Dreams Werner Herzog gives an all-access pass to a long-abandoned cave in southern France. The prehistoric drawings in the Chauvet-Pont-d’Arc offer scientists a field day, navelgazing on the artistic/emotional development of our species. The French security precautions for protecting the caverns include building a theme park-like duplicate for tourists to roam. Herzog also offers a timely glimpse of a species of mutant crocodiles growing up in the runoff pools from the adjacent nuclear reactors. (Kabuki, 4/25, 26) Walking Too Fast Radim Spacek provides a feral peek at Cold Warera Czechoslovakia, as a secret policeman goes mad lusting after the girlfriend of a man whose life he is systematically destroying.

Cribbing from film noir and torture porn, this is a 146-minute dystopian universe that will stay with you.

(Kabuki, 4/22, 24; PFA, 5/2)▼ Info: www.sffs.org

San Francisco Film Society

Scene from Miranda July’s The Future: a Berkeleyesque universe.

▼

Books >>

April 21-27, 2011 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 33

Keeper of the flame

by Tavo Amador

I

don’t mind meeting you because you did not know me before, when I was young and very beautiful,” said 76-year-old Marlene Dietrich to Charlotte Chandler in 1977 in Paris.

Marlene (Simon & Shuster, $26) is the latest “Personal Biography” (are there any other kind?) from Chandler, whose previous subjects include Joan Crawford, Alfred Hitchcock, Ingrid Bergman, Mae West, Katharine Hepburn, and Bette Davis.

The strength of Chandler’s approach is that each luminary’s version of history is recorded in lengthy interviews, from which she quotes extensively. Friends, colleagues, ex-lovers, relatives are also cited. Chandler’s non-threatening style makes each subsequent, aging legend more likely to speak with her.

Unfortunately, she rarely challenges any of their assertions.

Although most major classic Hollywood figures adeptly managed their images, few did so as tenaciously as Dietrich (1901-92).

She perpetuated myths about herself from the beginning of her American career. Decades into her stardom, she claimed she had been “a student in a theatre school in Europe” when director Joseph von Sternberg cast her as Lola Lola in The Blue Angel (1930), making her an international sensation. She implied she was young

and inexperienced. Researchers eventually uncovered the truth.

While she had briefly studied with Max Reinhardt, she was 29, had made at least 17 German movies beginning in 1923, and had worked in cabaret and the stage in Berlin and Vienna.

Von Sternberg saw something in her others hadn’t. Dietrich insists she never tried to hide her age and didn’t discuss those early pictures because they weren’t important. It’s a convenient if unlikely excuse.

After the success of The Blue Angel, Paramount signed Dietrich to a long-term contract, and from 1930-35, von Sternberg directed her in another six movies, the last four financial failures. They are nonetheless riveting, superbly framing Dietrich’s enigmatic mystique. She continued making films without him for nearly three decades, often to great effect, but her place in the Hollywood Pantheon is based on their collaboration. Their relationship was contentious – he was often abusive, yet she spoke of him glowingly.

She reminisces about her uppermiddle-class Berlin childhood, her devotion to daughter Maria Riva, her grandchildren and only husband, Rudolph Sieber. Once she arrived in America, she and Sieber rarely lived together – he had a mistress whom Dietrich liked – and for much of the time, they looked after Maria.

She touches on some of her affairs: Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., who speaks warmly about her; John Wayne; Jean Gabin; and writer Mercedes De Acosta.

The last is discussed briefly within the context of her lesbian experiences, which started with a slightly older classmate. Dietrich says she had a “brief encounter” with De Acosta, who also had an intimate relationship with Greta Garbo, whom Dietrich found “fascinating.” Yet Chandler fails to pursue that topic. She mentions that Dietrich had a small role in Joyless Street (1925), starring Garbo. The two may have had a scene together. Chandler doesn’t ask if they met, and ignores Diana McClellan’s assertion in The Girls that Dietrich may have seduced Garbo.

Chandler’s on sounder footing when Dietrich explains why for years she didn’t admit to having an older sister, of whom she was fond. When Hitler came to power, he ordered Dietrich to return to Germany. She refused, becoming an American citizen instead. Her mother, sister, brother-in-law and nephew remained in Germany, and publicity about them would have been risky. Her brother-in-law and sister cooperated with the Nazis, but after the war, Dietrich suppressed that information, and relocated her

family to West Berlin.

Surprisingly, Chandler doesn’t spend much time on Dietrich’s courageous appearances before Allied soldiers at the European front during WWII. She was made a Colonel and carried cyanide on her, in case she was captured. Despite grueling conditions, she sang for GIs, talked to them, wrote letters for them, visited the wounded, and when possible, cooked for them.

One of the best parts of Marlene recounts how, after a 13-year absence, in 1977, she made her last screen appearance, directed by David Hemmings in Just a Gigolo, starring

D David Bowie. Screenwriter JJoshua Sinclair defied all odds tto sign her. She was offered $$100,000 for four days’ work iin Berlin. She demanded – and rreceived – $250,000 for two days’ sshooting in Paris, plus the cost o of her dress ($5,000). The movie w was awful, but she performed the ttitle song hauntingly.

In the early 1980s, growing m more dependent on alcohol aand pain medication, Dietrich b became a recluse in her Paris aapartment, ordering room sservice from the Plaza Athenee H Hotel. She had always spent la lavishly, on jewels, clothes, h her daughter’s townhouse on M Manhattan’s Upper East Side, her fo four grandsons’ private-school education. Sadly, she began to outlive her money.

In movies and her acclaimed cabaret and concert acts, Dietrich controlled every aspect of her image, and was determined to do so late in life. Chandler assists her ably in that regard. For a more balanced view of her remarkable career, readers should turn to Maria Riva’s Marlene Dietrich, or Stevan Bach’s Marlene Dietrich: Life and Legend, or watch Maximilian Schell’s amazing documentary Marlene (1984), in which she refuses to appear on camera, but answers his questions with imperious asperity.▼

the audience that appeared for that first Ring that it was barely able to feed them, to the point that food was a hotter topic among the celebrity crowd than the revolutionary opera that was unfolding day-by-day at the Festspeilhaus.

Although Hilmes never takes his eye off his exotic subject, along the way of telling Cosima’s story, he provides the best and deepest currently available biography of the man she called The Master in the years they were together, along with vivid portraits of Liszt, the conductor Hans von Buelow

(Cosima’s first husband), and many others, including some major homosexuals. Among those, Wagner’s longtime patron, King Ludwig II of Bavaria, at long last gets serious and sympathetic treatment.

Hilmes takes pains to spell out the consequences of being homosexual in Cosima’s lifetime (1837-1930), and within that context he reveals the way in which Fidi, Wagner’s only son, heir apparent to the throne at Bayreuth, and gay as a box of birds, was manipulated – put and kept in his place, and finally, psychologically assassinated – by scandals microscopically documented for the first time here.

Cosima, who doted on Fidi, takes none of the rap for the rampant homophobia, and surely she doesn’t have it coming given Hilmes’ unsparing look at her venomous anti-Semitism and the cunning with which, after getting up off Wagner’s coffin, she rebuilt a Bayreuth her husband had never envisioned, a hothouse for a strain of German nationalism into which Hitler literally marches in the book’s final pages. Hilmes makes good with the details on his brave, seminal assertion: “It was Cosima’s charisma as the legitimate ‘guardian of the Grail,’ her organizational skill and her ideological obstinacy that enabled Bayreuth to prove so disastrously effective as a political force in Germany.”▼

Guardian of the Grail

by Tim Pfaff

O

pen Oliver Hilmes’ masterful biography Cosima Wagner: The Lady of Bayreuth (Yale University Press) just about anywhere, and you’ll find something startling about his subject, Richard Wagner’s second wife, who turned the composer into a religion whose high priestess she was for more than four decades after his death. There were, it turns out, no ordinary evenings in Bayreuth.

Take the end of the long chapter called “Wagner,” where you read that, after the composer’s death in Venice on Feb. 13, 1883, Cosima could not be separated from his corpse for more than 24 hours, despite the body’s having begun to decompose, and later, the embalmers’ unsuccessful attempts to lock her out of the room because of the toxicity of their chemicals.

Four pages later, describing Wagner’s burial in Bayreuth on Feb. 18, Hilmes completes his detailed account of the service, from which Cosima had absented herself, with their daughter Daniela’s plangent words recounting Cosima’s arrival at the open grave after the mourners had left: “Mama climbed down into it, and for a long time lay on the coffin until Fidi [the Wagners’ son, Siegfried] went to fetch

<<

Cinema Verite From page 21

TV. Of course, only those who were there know what really happened, but Seltzer’s musings make for good drama.

Diane Lane and Tim Robbins are superb as Pat and Bill Loud.

Brief clips of the real-life Louds are occasionally glimpsed in Gilbert’s editing room, and it’s impressive how much the actors resemble the couple they play. As the Loud marriage crumbles, Lane and Robbins chew the scenery. Yet they never overplay their scenes.

Thomas Dekker steals his every on-camera moment as Lance. He throws himself into the role, and presents an admirable portrait of a young gay man who accepted

her and we brought her back inside.”

This is another one of those true stories no fiction-writer could get away with. It’s Hilmes’ gift (ably abetted by the superb English translation of Stewart Spencer) that his penetrating scholarship first paints a sympathetic picture of Cosima’s tormented childhood (being the illegitimate daughter of Franz Liszt was only the beginning), then takes a longer, unflinching look at the woman it produced, in equal parts masochistic, manipulative, brilliant, barbarous, conniving, controlling, dependent and dominating. Hilmes has mined veins of previously unpublished information, from sources ranging from the closely guarded Bayreuth Archives (you wonder at what risk to his life he has published that stuff) to pertinent contemporary legal case histories, to produce this authoritative, courageous, and almost compulsively readable book.

Given the heat the material itself gives off, Hilmes’ commentary is, relatively, cool and steady, though his authority does allow him to venture subjective observations, analyses and conjectures. If, by the book’s end, you think that everyone mentioned in it – from gay King Ludwig II to Hitler – is nuts, you aren’t likely to himself long before others could accept him. “Lance is the most interesting one,” observes a family member during their initial interview with Gilbert.

The early-1970s setting is effectively captured not only by authentic (if now sometimes campy) hair and costuming, but also by a lovely soundtrack. Original tracks

by Mama Cass Elliot, Carole King and Ringo Starr will take viewers back to the long-gone early 1970s, when free love was encouraged, even if people weren’t quite ready to talk about homosexuality.

Cinema Verite is a cautionary tale to those who dream of fame. Be careful what you wish for.▼

think that it’s because Hilmes has distorted the historical record.

Whenever a new production of The Ring comes around, with it comes the reviling of Wagner for all manner of personal evils, from his virulent anti-Semitism to his debting and womanizing. If you want chapter and verse, and sums, look no farther than Hilmes.

He’s also great at performance history. Regarding the first complete Ring, at Bayreuth in 1876, we get excerpts from the blog of one Friedrich Nietzsche, a gay philologist and about-tobe-former best friend of the composer.

“Nietzsche had presumably traveled to [Bayreuth] with unreasonably high hopes, expecting to see Wagner’s artistic vision in unadulterated form, whereas what he found there was an embarrassing fairground atmosphere, with swimming Rhinedaughters, shaggyhaired Indian chieftains and absurdly comical dragons. He felt repelled by it all. But it is significant that he was either unable or unwilling to see that the composer, too, was disappointed and depressed at what had been achieved.”

Elsewhere we learn that the town of Bayreuth was so ill-prepared for

Tim Robbins and Thomas Dekker in Cinema Verite.

Cinema Verite will premiere on Sat., April 23, at 9 p.m. on HBO. Peter Iovino/HBO

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

30 • Bay Area Reporter • April 28-May 4, 2011

t

Personals The

Model/Escorts>>

Massage>>

Shin Tong / 1x2 / 35-08

BlaiseMartin_1x2

ASIAN ECSTACY

Superb Sensual Massage

By Handsome Athletic CMT. Full Body Soothing Satisfying In/$45 Hr. Oakland Near Bart Clean, Pvt., Shower EZ Park Out/ $65 Hr. Entire Bay Area

Call Shin # 510-502-2660 Late Hours OK

RickSanchez1234_1x1s

ASIAN ECSTACY

CERTIFIED-MASCULINE-BUILT What you want in a massuer

COREMASSAGE4MEN.COM Pelvis-Hips-Thighs-Low Back-Abs Jeff Gibson 415-626-7095 SF

Licensed www.masseurfinder.com/rico6 puertoricancmt@sbcglobal.net masculinecmt@sbcglobal.net

Fremont, Jim CMT

Mature $40/HR (510) 651-2217

e18w

Wanna Melt? Castro $50 Jim 415-621-4517

e27w

HAIRY MASSEUR Erotic Relaxing Full Body Massage by hairy Irish/Portugese guy.

All Bay Area.

(510) 912-8812 late nights ok.

e16w

Superb Full Body Sensual Massage

By Handsome friendly Asian CMT In/$45/Hr Oakland, Nr. BART EZ PARK Out To Hotels /$65/Hr. Entire Bay Area Call Shin 510-502-2660 Late Hrs. OK

DADDY MASSAGE ME SIR 510-830-8768 Out calls only.

CERTIFIED-MASCULINE-BUILT All you Baywant Areas.

What in a massuer Let DADDY care for you.Licensed

www.masseurfinder.com/rico6 e28w puertoricancmt@sbcglobal.net masculinecmt@sbcglobal.net *EXCELLENT MASSAGE* “Revitalizing Effect” Nude,Swedish, Erotic, Prostate (415) 647-4423 60 -120 min. sessions: $85 & up.

6’3”, 198#, Blond, CMT SF 415-706-9740

e19w

CERTIFIED-MASCULINE-BUILT Asian CMT In Sunnyvale. In -$50, What you want in a massuer Out-$70 Michael 408-400-9088 Licensed or 408-893-1966 www.masseurfinder.com/rico6 puertoricancmt@sbcglobal.net masculinecmt@sbcglobal.net

e19w

Genital &/or Prostatic “Revitalizing Effect” 647-4423 Certified(415) Sexological Bodyworker Health and Pleasure. Goal Focused 415-796-3215,Post and Hyde.

“Dr. BLISS” is IN! I love touching Superb Sensual Massage By Handsome Athletic CMT. men and it shows! Massage is my Full Body Soothing Satisfying • In/$45 Hr. Oakland Near Bart artform.

415.706.6549 Clean, Pvt., Shower EZ Park • Out/ $65 Hr. Entire Bay Area http://bodymagicsf.blogspot.com e16w Call Shin # 510-502-2660

Gift Certificates Available e18w

Asian CMT massage 510-779-8234

19w

SEXY ASIAN $60 Jim 269-5707

e18w

17w

Full Body Massage 7 days a week.

Outcalls too!

415-350-0968

e17w

GREAT MASSAGE 415-441-3131 JIM 41,5’9”,175#, $75

E16W

HOT*COOL*24HRS. e14w

Hot twink import. Youngest, hottest twink on this site, guaranteed! YES IM OF AGE.. 24/7 Super friendly, Matt 530-903-8646

e14w

BLK MASCULINE TOP

Handsome, Hung, and Stays Hard.

Clean, Friendly. Older Guys & Bears Welcome.

Discrete - In or Out Cedrick 510-776-5945

e13w

Thickest Dick 9X7.5 All Scenes Confident Top Nick 415-615-0933

All the news that’s fit to post.

“Revitalizing Effect” (415) 647-4423

e14w

Edgy Escort For Xtreme Clients Out* 860-5468*$150 Hr.*

MASSAGE FOR SENIORS ONLY DAVID 415 806-3150 WILL TRAVEL

CERTIFIED-MASCULINE-BUILT What you want in a massuer Licensed www.masseurfinder.com/rico6 puertoricancmt@sbcglobal.net masculinecmt@sbcglobal.net

e14w

Middle Eastern Versatile 29yo Versatile /169cm/ 64kg/ 8” curved and cut (650)743-0036. hunk_25@live.com

East Bay Excellent MassageLate Hours OK Duane CMT 510.830.8549

E16w

e16w

e13w

Attractive Friendly White guy 6’1” 185lbs 30’s 415-320-1040 Pictures at http://skot2trot.com

e20w

“Revitalizing Effect” (415) 647-4423

* Great Hands *

Bondage 2 Buttplay. Toys/FF/S&M Sling/Hose.

Anthony 415-763-8677.

e13w

HIV+ TOP/VERS.6’3” 198# 8” Blond Hot. Friendly 415-706-9740

BAYAREAREPORTER

e14w

E16w

22 year old Asian cute boy.super cute face with smooth body 5.5inch uncut. versatile.$130 for in/out 415-724-3641 (Accepted txt and call) you can’t miss it.

e17w

• USE CONDOMS • BE WISE - 24/7

Hotels outcalls/$50/80 in 724-3252

e17w

Straight Baptist Boy. Amazing massage. Mouth watering cock.

510-221-7706. Available 24/7.

William

e117w

SEXY ITALIAN JOCK, 6’,180LBS,

e14w

JOHN (510)-658-2437 M4M Local Sex Date: 800-260-4865. 18+

Ninth Street S.F. CA Fax from: Fax to: PHONE395 Top861-8144 This 5foot11 180pound 415.861.5019 Hung FAX 395 Ninth Street S.F. CA PHONE 415.861.5019 FAX 861-8144

Fax from:

E1B

Fax to:8”. VERS. IN/OUT

Youthful Caucasian, Blonde, Blue.

415-320-1040 Be smart. Be safe. Be sane.

Nice Mexican, 22yo Hot. Make your fantasies come true.

415-987-1390 Miguel.

5’6”,130#,Good Kisser, Handsome.

E14W

white fat thick 8/5 uncut 415-684-4837

E14W

E19w

• USE CONDOMS • Be a smart cookie.

E14w

E14w

Resize_Option

t

Read more online at www.ebar.com

“Oh, Jerry, don’t let’s ask for the moon. We have the stars.”

-Charlotte Vale, Now, Voyager

CHILANGOSEXY

I like to give pleasure; versatile, horny.

EDUARDO 415-374-4439

/STD tests every 3-6 one of our Sex Health IES membership card the club:

415.575.0749 7.5500

uddies.com

Stay healthy! Get HIV/STD tests every 3-6 months. Get tested at one of our Sex Health partners with a BUDDIES membership card and get a free pass to the club:

• Magnet 415.581.1600 • AHP 415.502.TEST • Stop AIDS Project 415.575.0749 • City Clinic* 415.487.5500 *Free or low-cost testing

415.777.HEAD

VV BLO DIES

UDrancisco B San F

I like to give pleasure; versatile, horny.

www.blowbuddies.com

Free test!

Free pass! o

374

.443

9

CHILANGOSEXY

Stay healthy! Get HIV/STD

3-6 months. Get Itests likeevery to give tested at one of our Sex Health pleasure, partners with a BUDDIES versatile, membership card and get a horny. free pass to the club:

origin_Communications_2x2_3910

Edu

415.

a rd

• Magnet 415.581.1600 • AHP 415.502.TEST • Stop AIDS Project 415.575.0749 • City Clinic* 415.487.5500 *Free or low-cost testing

V

CHILANGOSEXY

I like to give pleasure, BLOV 415.777.HEAD versatile, horny.

CHILANGOSEXY

ng

Free>> test!

Free pass!

CHILANGOSEXY

>>

DncIEisS UDra co B San F

www.blowbuddies.com

BLK MASCULINE TOP

Handsome, Hung, and Stays Hard.

Clean, Friendly. Older Guys & Bears Welcome.

Discrete - In or Out Cedrick 510-776-5945

e13w

Eduardo Thickest Dick 9X7.5 All Scenes 415.374.4439 Confident Top Nick 415-615-0933

e13w

HIV+ TOP/VERS.6’3” 198# 8” Blond Hot. Friendly 415-706-9740

e14w

Youthful Caucasian, Blonde, Blue.

415-320-1040

e14w

Hung Top This 5foot11 180pound white fat thick 8/5 uncut 415-684-4837

EDUARDO 415-374-4439

EdwardTamayo_2x2_1x3 Model/Escorts People

st! ee pass!

600

April 28-May 4, 2011 • Bay Area Reporter • 31

I like to give pleasure, versatile, horny.

MEN Cruising MEN Match & Reply FREE! 415-430-1199 SF 510-343-1122 East Bay Use FREE Code 5818, 18+

Client_size_issue The

eI B

Deadline: NOON on MONDAY. Payment must accompany ad. No ads taken over the telephone.

Body Trim & Shaving In The Eduardo Castro 415-626-1168 for appt 415.374.4439 M4M Local Sex Date: 800-260-4865. 18+

E14w

395 Ninth Street S.F. CA PHONE 415.861.5019 FAX 861-8144 d

an t in ad, r r p als u yo son e c er o a l p ne P go t o T nli o

E16w

Classified Order Form If you have a question, call 415.861.5019. Display advertising rates available upon request.

Indicate Type Style Here

XBOLD and BOLD stop here

E19w

Fax to: Fax from:

RATES for Newspaper and website: First line, Regular 8.00 All subsequent lines 5.00 Web or e-mail hyperlink 5.00 CAPS double price BOLD double price X-BOLD triple price PAYMENT:

Cash

Personal Check

Contact Information Name Address Number of Issues

Mail with payment to: Bay Area Reporter 395 Ninth Street SF, CA 94103 OR FAX TO: 415.861.8144 OR E-MAIL: baradv@aol.com

Credit Card Payment Name Card Number Expiration Date Signature Money Order

City Classification

Visa

MasterCard

AmEx

Telephone State Amt. Enclosed

Zip