Super Bowl hangover for for merchants merchants
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Serving the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities since 1971
Vol. 46 • No. 6 • February 11-17, 2016
SF readies Raucous meeting over sex offender site condom campaigns to reduce STDs by Matthew S. Bajko
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se a condom messaging is again being rolled out in San Francisco. But unlike during the early days of the AIDS epidemic, when condoms were the main focus of safe Rick Gerharter sex campaigns aimed Dr. Susan Philip at preventing HIV, the prophylactics are returning as a way to combat rising rates of other sexually transmitted diseases. “What we are hearing is the community wants to see messages about condom use, what the data says about STD rates, and how to incorporate that into a sexual health message,” said Tracey Packer, director of community health equity and promotion in the Population Health Division at the San Francisco Department of Public Health. For the last decade San Francisco has seen a relentless rise in STDs. And 2015 was no exception, with rates of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis all spiking. It is a trend that has been growing across California and the U.S., particularly as more gay and bisexual men abandon condoms for other HIV prevention methods, such as taking PrEP and/or serosorting their sexual partners, and sexual practices, based on HIV status. While that has led to a reduction of new HIV cases both in the city and across the state, the tools many men are using to protect themselves from becoming HIV-positive, or passing on the virus to their sexual partners, do not stop the spread of STDs. “Reportable STD cases are going up everywhere. We are not facing this in isolation, multiple factors throughout the country are contributing to this,” said Deputy Health Officer Dr. Susan Philip, the director of SFDPH’s Disease Prevention and Control Population Health Division. “In San Francisco we are seeing large numbers of STD cases. At the same time, we are happy to see declines in HIV infections. Those things are connected.” According to the health department’s preliminary year-end 2015 data on reportable STDs, chlamydia increased by 21.2 percent between 2014 and 2015, from 5,972 to 7,239 cases. Male rectal chlamydia increased from 1,408 to 1,788 cases, a 27 percent annual increase, according to the initial reports. Gonorrhea increased by 30.3 percent from 3,278 in 2014 to 4,270 cases last year, noted the health department’s monthly STD report published February 4. It also pointed out that, compared to a 10 percent increase seen in 2014, rectal gonorrhea among men See page 13 >>
Jane Philomen Cleland
Audience members raise their hands at Monday’s Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association meeting to show they signed a petition against Sharper Future.
by Sari Staver
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fter a rowdy and raucous Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association community meeting Monday, the owners of a for-profit chain of sexual offender rehabilitation clinics promised to delay their plans to move into an empty storefront at 100 Church Street. The California chain, Sharper Future, had signed a lease with Maitri hospice to move into the former home of a thrift store and medical clinic that had been occupied by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Sharper Future treats offenders out on parole or probation from state or federal prison. “Our movers are on hold,” Sharper Future
President Mary-Perry Miller, Ph.D., a lesbian, told the Bay Area Reporter. At the standing-room-only meeting in the auditorium of California Pacific Medical Center, some 200 residents, many wearing nametags that said “I Have A Question,” heard gay Supervisor Scott Wiener promise that the move “was not a done deal.” “You have my word,” said Wiener, “that this is just the beginning” of the process to debate the subject. At issue was whether Sharper Future has gone through all the legal and regulatory channels necessary to move into the empty space. The city issues involve local zoning and permit regulations, which will be discussed at a
Board of Appeals hearing next week. The city had issued a letter of determination, essentially telling Sharper Future that given the limited information it supplied, zoning officials thought it appeared to meet the qualifications to occupy the small part of the space that had been occupied by AHF’s medical clinic. In response to the Sharper Future controversy, Wiener on Tuesday introduced legislation that would require new tenants offering medical services to receive a conditional use permit, which requires a public hearing, and an enforceable community outreach process. If approved by the Board of Supervisors and the mayor, the legislation would be retroactive to February 9 and would apply to Sharper Future, See page 13 >>
Sanders, Trump rack up big wins in New Hampshire by Lisa Keen
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GBT news out of the New Hampshire presidential primary this week was both familiar and bizarre. The LGBT community in New Hampshire appeared to be split between the two Democratic candidates – Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders. That was much like it was in 2008 between Clinton and Barack Obama. But on the odd side of the picture, Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump beckoned a woman in a rally audience Monday to shout out the word “pussy” to characterize another male GOP candidate. And at a diner in Manchester the same evening, a gay man chided Republican contender Marco Rubio for his opposition to same-sex marriage, and an elderly patron asked Rubio whether Senator Lindsey Graham (RSouth Carolina) is gay. When the results were in Tuesday night, Sanders had a wide margin of victory over Clinton; and Trump had a wide margin over the eightperson field of Republican candidates. Ohio Governor John Kasich, the closest thing to a moderate in the GOP field, came in second, ahead of the Iowa caucus winner Ted Cruz, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, and Rubio. New Jersey Governor Chris Christie had a dismal showing, finishing sixth, and media
Senator Bernie Sanders
Businessman Donald Trump
outlets Wednesday reported that he suspended his campaign. Carly Fiorina also suspended her campaign Wednesday. Clinton and Sanders gave speeches Tuesday night that included mention of LGBT people several times. In his speech, Trump promised to “take care of everything – it’s going to be great.” Kasich promised to “leave no one behind” and “to solve the problems in America, not by being extreme.” In his victory speech, Sanders said, “the people want real change” and that it’s “just too late for the same old, same old establishment politics.” That comment seemed to echo a remark Sanders made last month, when he characterized the Human Rights Campaign, a national LGBT political group that endorsed Clinton, as being part of “the political establishment.” But later in the speech, Sanders said, “We
must pursue the fight for women’s rights, for gay rights, for disability rights.” He said his campaign will bring together “black and white, Latino, Asian, Native American, straight and gay, male and female, people born in America and people who immigrated here.” In her concession speech Tuesday night, Clinton said she was committed to breaking through the barriers of discrimination, adding, “LGBT people shouldn’t be fired from their jobs because of who they are and who they love.” She also mentioned the rights of LGBT people in saying she would fight for the rights of many minorities.
{ FIRST OF THREE SECTIONS }
The community split
There was no survey data to indicate where the LGBT vote in Iowa or New Hampshire went, See page 12 >>
速
New Genvoya is now available
GENC0004_BayAreaRprtr_9.75x16_Sprd.indd 1-2
Actual Size
One pill contains elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). Ask your healthcare provider if GENVOYA is right for you. To learn more visit GENVOYA.com
Please see Brief Summary of Patient Information with important warnings on the following pages.
12/3/15 3:23 PM
Brief Summary of Patient Information about GENVOYA GENVOYA (jen-VOY-uh) (elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide) tablets Important: Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with GENVOYA. There may be new information about GENVOYA. This information is only a summary and does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about GENVOYA? GENVOYA can cause serious side effects, including: • Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis may happen in some people who take GENVOYA. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms, which could be signs of lactic acidosis: • • • • • • •
feel very weak or tired have unusual (not normal) muscle pain have trouble breathing have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting feel cold, especially in your arms and legs feel dizzy or lightheaded have a fast or irregular heartbeat
• Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems may happen in people who take GENVOYA. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large and you may develop fat in your liver. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) • dark “tea-colored” urine • light-colored bowel movements (stools) • loss of appetite for several days or longer • nausea • stomach pain • You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking GENVOYA for a long time. • Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. GENVOYA is not for use to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV). If you have HBV infection and take GENVOYA, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking GENVOYA. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. • Do not run out of GENVOYA. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your GENVOYA is all gone. • Do not stop taking GENVOYA without first talking to your healthcare provider. • If you stop taking GENVOYA, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking GENVOYA.
GENC0004_BayAreaRprtr_9.75x16_Sprd.indd 3-4
What is GENVOYA? GENVOYA is a prescription medicine that is used without other HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 in people 12 years of age and older: • who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past or • to replace their current HIV-1 medicines in people who have been on the same HIV-1 medicines for at least 6 months, have an amount of HIV-1 in their blood (“viral load”) that is less than 50 copies/mL, and have never failed past HIV-1 treatment HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. GENVOYA contains the prescription medicines elvitegravir (VITEKTA®), cobicistat (TYBOST®), emtricitabine (EMTRIVA®) and tenofovir alafenamide. It is not known if GENVOYA is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age. When used to treat HIV-1 infection, GENVOYA may: • Reduce the amount of HIV-1 in your blood. This is called “viral load”. • Increase the number of CD4+ (T) cells in your blood that help fight off other infections. Reducing the amount of HIV-1 and increasing the CD4+ (T) cells in your blood may help improve your immune system. This may reduce your risk of death or getting infections that can happen when your immune system is weak (opportunistic infections). GENVOYA does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. You must stay on continuous HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses. Avoid doing things that can spread HIV-1 infection to others: • Do not share or re-use needles or other injection equipment. • Do not share personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them, like toothbrushes and razor blades. • Do not have any kind of sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to other people.
Who should not take GENVOYA? Do not take GENVOYA if you also take a medicine that contains: • alfuzosin hydrochloride (Uroxatral®) • carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegretol®, Tegretol-XR®, Teril®) • cisapride (Propulsid®, Propulsid Quicksolv®) • ergot-containing medicines, including: dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E. 45®, Migranal®), ergotamine tartrate (Cafergot®, Migergot®, Ergostat®, Medihaler Ergotamine®, Wigraine®, Wigrettes®), and methylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) • lovastatin (Advicor®, Altoprev®, Mevacor®) • midazolam, when taken by mouth • phenobarbital (Luminal®) • phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) • pimozide (Orap®) • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifamate®, Rifater®, Rimactane®) • sildenafil (Revatio®), when used for treating lung problems • simvastatin (Simcor®, Vytorin®, Zocor®) • triazolam (Halcion®) • the herb St. John’s wort or a product that contains St. John’s wort
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking GENVOYA?
What are the possible side effects of GENVOYA?
Before taking GENVOYA, tell your healthcare provider if you: • have liver problems including hepatitis B infection • have kidney or bone problems • have any other medical conditions • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if GENVOYA can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking GENVOYA. Pregnancy registry: there is a pregnancy registry for women who take HIV-1 medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take GENVOYA. – You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. – At least one of the medicines in GENVOYA can pass to your baby in your breast milk. It is not known if the other medicines in GENVOYA can pass into your breast milk. – Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Other medicines may affect how GENVOYA works. Some medicines may interact with GENVOYA. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. • You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with GENVOYA. • Do not start a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take GENVOYA with other medicines.
GENVOYA may cause serious side effects, including: • See “What is the most important information I should know about GENVOYA?” • Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine. These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known. • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine. • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking GENVOYA. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking GENVOYA if you develop new or worse kidney problems. • Bone problems can happen in some people who take GENVOYA. Bone problems may include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones. The most common side effect of GENVOYA is nausea. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. • These are not all the possible side effects of GENVOYA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. • Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I take GENVOYA?
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use GENVOYA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give GENVOYA to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them. This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about GENVOYA. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about GENVOYA that is written for health professionals. For more information, call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.GENVOYA.com. Keep GENVOYA and all medicines out of reach of children.
• Take GENVOYA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. GENVOYA is taken by itself (not with other HIV-1 medicines) to treat HIV-1 infection. • GENVOYA is usually taken 1 time each day. • Take GENVOYA with food. • If you need to take a medicine for indigestion (antacid) that contains aluminum and magnesium hydroxide or calcium carbonate during treatment with GENVOYA, take it at least 2 hours before or after you take GENVOYA. • Do not change your dose or stop taking GENVOYA without first talking with your healthcare provider. Stay under a healthcare provider’s care when taking GENVOYA. • Do not miss a dose of GENVOYA. • If you take too much GENVOYA, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away. • When your GENVOYA supply starts to run low, get more from your healthcare provider or pharmacy. This is very important because the amount of virus in your blood may increase if the medicine is stopped for even a short time. The virus may develop resistance to GENVOYA and become harder to treat.
General information about the safe and effective use of GENVOYA.
Issued: November 2015
EMTRIVA, GENVOYA, the GENVOYA Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, TYBOST, and VITEKTA are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. © 2015 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. GENC0004 11/15
12/3/15 3:23 PM
<< Community News
6 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
ESCAPE TO PALM SPRINGS
Knoller loses legal bid, plans appeal by Ed Walsh
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he attorney for Marjorie Knoller plans to appeal the decision of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that refused to overturn her second-degree murder conviction for the 2001 dog mauling of her lesbian neighbor, Diane Whipple. Attorney Dennis Riordan told the Bay Area Reporter this week that he plans to file an “en banc” appeal next month. If that appeal proceeds, it will be heard in a “limited en banc” format that includes the chief judge and 10 other justices of the appeals court. A three-judge panel authored the decision handed down February 4. But that appeal will be an uphill battle. Last year, the appeals court received 796 en banc petitions but only agreed to review 30 of those cases, according to court spokesman David Madden. And of those 30 cases, the court only ruled in favor of the petitioner in 16. Barring a successful appeal, Knoller, 60, will be eligible for parole in November 2020, according to California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation spokeswoman Krissi Khokhobashvili. Knoller was sentenced to 15-years-to life for the hallway attack on Whipple. Jurors sided with prosecutors who argued that she and her husband, Robert Noel,
Pool photo
Marjorie Knoller sits in court during the verdict in her 2002 trial.
knew their dogs were dangerous but did little to mitigate the risk. Noel, 74, was not with the dogs during the attack and was convicted of involuntary manslaughter. He was released on parole in 2003. Noel declined to comment on the most recent appeals court decision but said that he strongly stands by his wife. In an online chat with the B.A.R., Noel said that he owes his life to Knoller and a good friend. “I will be with them to my last breath,” he said. And reiterating his devotion to his wife, he added, “I’m here after 15 years, not leaving her now.”
Knoller and Noel were first arrested in 2001. Knoller’s original trial judge, now-retired San Francisco Superior Court Judge James Warren, threw out Knoller’s seconddegree murder conviction, leaving her with only a conviction for involuntary manslaughter. She was released on parole in 2004 only to be sent back to jail in 2008 after another San Francisco Superior Court judge reinstated the murder conviction after being ordered to review the case by the state Supreme Court. In Knoller’s most recent appeal, Riordan argued that Warren denied Knoller her rights to a vigorous defense when he threatened her defense attorney, Nedra Ruiz, with jail if she made another objection. Warren had clearly run out of patience for Ruiz’s very animated courtroom style that included the defense attorney getting down on her hands and knees to reenact Knoller’s attempt to stop the mauling. In the three-page decision, the justices wrote that while Warren was wrong for silencing Ruiz, his action did not constitute a “structural error,” that occurs only when there is a “complete deprivation of counsel.” The panel wrote that a previous state Court of Appeal ruling “did not unreasonably determine” that Warren’s action was harmless to the jury’s ultimate finding of guilt. t
Couple in trans attack backtracks on pleas by Seth Hemmelgarn
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San Francisco couple accused of attacking a transgender woman late last year want to withdraw the guilty pleas they entered in the case.
RDAENCE V I VA L S AT FEB
PART Y 13 HOSTED BY HONORING OUR EXPERIENCE
A community-building event hosted by and for long-term survivors and the community
6PM—10PM
(light dinner served early)
1661 15th St. at Julian, SF (St. John the Evangelist Church)
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strach DJ bill
RSVP ON FB: FACEBOOK/REVIVAL A DANCE PARTY GCassin@Shanti.org
photo: Michael Kerner
Dewayne Kemp, 37, and Rebecca Westover, 43, have faced charges resulting from a November brawl with Samantha Hulsey, 25, outside the Holiday Inn in the South of Market neighborhood. In December, after their preliminary hearing had already started, Kemp pleaded guilty to assault, and Westover pleaded guilty to battery. She also admitted to a hate crime allegation, enhancing her crime to a felony. Other charges in the case were dismissed. A sentence of probation was expected. The couple were released from jail shortly after their guilty pleas, but during a Superior Court hearing Monday, Judge Harry Dorfman remanded them back into custody for several months as part of the plea deal they’d made. Franz Fuetsch, the attorney representing Westover in her efforts to withdraw her plea, told Dorfman his client hadn’t been “sufficiently educated” on what it meant when she admitted to a hate crime allegation in the case. He also said that there had been “a failure to obtain and view” surveillance video in the case. In a draft motion he shared with the Bay Area Reporter, Clifford Gould, the attorney helping Kemp in his withdrawal effort, said Kemp’s children were in court when he pleaded guilty December 23. He was “distraught” about being away from his family during the holidays, and he took the release from jail and expected sentence of probation on the condition that he eventually return to custody for nine months, Gould said. “Mr. Kemp had insufficient time to deliberate,” and “the emotional pressures made it impossible for Mr. Kemp to exercise free and clear judgment,” he said. In an email, Gould said, “Mr. Kemp wants to face a jury of his peers. If he is convicted he would get a very lengthy prison sentence.” Dorfman said in court that based on his review of a transcript, “the consequences of pleading guilty” and admitting to the allegations had been put on the record, and the results of Westover’s plea and admission had been “clearly discussed.” He also
Dewayne Kemp, left, and Rebecca Westover in a Facebook photo.
noted that neither defendant is “new to the criminal justice system.” Both have been previously incarcerated. Assistant District Attorney Brenna Kantrovitz said that Kemp and Westover had “had lots of time to talk about these charges and allegations.” Gould asked Dorfman to “reconsider” remanding Kemp, who’d already been placed in handcuffs, under the condition that he check in daily with law enforcement officials. Dorfman said there had been “fair notice” to everyone and that “both knew what was likely to happen today.” Kemp, who had walked into court wearing overalls and a hard hat, told Dorfman that he and Westover needed “two or three days” to gather their belongings “so we don’t lose everything.” “We’re trying to get our lives together,” he said. “It’s discouraging as hell.” In separate jailhouse interviews last year, both Kemp and Westover said the incident started when Hulsey intentionally bumped into them and called Kemp the N-word. Hulsey has denied barging past the couple and using the racial slur. Assistant District Attorney Blair McGregor has said the incident started when comments, including “faggots,” were shouted. During his interview with the B.A.R., Kemp said, “I would plead to assault. Honestly, yes, I did assault that individual.” But when the plea deal was announced in December, Deputy Public Defender Kwixuan Maloof, See page 14 >>
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Business News>>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 7
No love lost between Castro merchants and Super Bowl by Matthew S. Bajko
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he Super Bowl 50 halftime show ended with the crowd at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara turning over placards that spelled out “Believe in Love” in rainbow-colored hues. The surprise message, to many, signaled support by headlining band Coldplay for marriage equality. Yet there was little for many merchants in San Francisco’s gay Castro district to love about the city playing host to the annual football championship game. Because transit officials stopped running the historic trolley cars on the F-Line route’s upper Market Street section due to Super Bowl City taking over the tracks near the Embarcadero, few tourists bothered to jump on the replacement buses headed to the gayborhood. “I have spoken to more than a dozen businesses. They all said there was no spike in business from the Super Bowl,” said Daniel Bergerac, president of the Castro Merchants. “Most said their business was down. It really took a bite out of this community.” The business association had hoped a special advertising campaign and a series of bar events and other promotions would offset the loss of the F-Line and score them some Super Bowl business. Banners at three downtown BART stations encouraged visitors to ditch the seals at Fisherman’s Wharf and instead check out the Castro’s “bears,” i.e. hirsute men. Placards in buses promoted the Castro as having “One-of-a-kind stores: We’ve got it in the bag” and “Where the Bay Area goes to get its party on.” Yet those efforts appear to have
had little impact, with many merchants saying that daytime business was particularly dead due to the mothballing of the iconic trolley cars, which began on January 23. “There was no love gained. If we had the F-Line and tourists coming up here, we might have had love for the Super Bowl,” said Bergerac, a co-owner of Mudpuppy’s Tub and Scrub on Castro Street. The pain continued through this week, as the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency did not expect to have the F-Line trolleys rolling again to the Castro until this Sunday, February 14, as the Super Bowl City structures were not expected to be cleared out until Friday. “It has had serious negative impact on business. Our sales have been down since the F-Line went down,” said Terry Asten Bennett, whose family owns Cliff ’s Variety on Castro Street, during the merchant group’s meeting last week. Monday Bennett told the Bay Area Reporter that shoppers remained sparse in the store. “Business continued to be down the rest of the weekend,” she said. Even the owners of Hi Tops, the gay sports bar on upper Market Street that brought in gay football player Michael Sam for its Friday happy hour last week, doubted they saw any difference in sales due to the Super Bowl being in town. “It felt like a usual Super Bowl, though we probably had a few more out-of-towners than usual,” said coowner Jesse Woodward. “Sunday we were packed all day and everybody loved the halftime show most of all. But it didn’t bring any extra business.” One of the few businesses to say it
businesses, noted his office, “that can demonstratively prove their revenues were less during the three weeks in question than in previous years.”
A hail mary pass for the homeless
Khaled Sayed
Beyoncé, Chris Martin of Coldplay, and Bruno Mars rocked the Super Bowl halftime show at Levi’s Stadium.
did benefit from the Super Bowl was Beck’s Motor Lodge. The Market Street motel, which was 98 percent booked last weekend, was able to raise its rates due to the increased demand as people unable to secure a room downtown looked to outlying neighborhoods. “Friday and Sunday were extremely strong. Sunday in winter is pretty dead typically for us, so that was very nice to see. I have to attribute that to the Super Bowl festivities,” said Brittney Beck, whose grandfather built the lodging in 1958. “Typically, November through mid-May is the slow period for us. It is why we do construction this time of year. It is a softer time of the year and there just aren’t that many people because people travel in the summertime.” And in fact, the weekend prior to the Super Bowl, business was softer than normal, said Beck. “I am not going to blame that on the F-Line being down because we have a parking lot,” she said. At the nearby Willows Inn on 14th Street near Church, innkeeper JoJo DeRodrigo said business over the Super Bowl weekend “was kind of a toss up,” as they did see a few sports fans in town for the game but also people from around northern California, likely due to the unseasonably warm weather. “Compared to last year it was one
of our busiest weekends in February,” said DeRodrigo. The one lesson the Castro merchants learned is just how important the F-Line is for many of the neighborhood businesses. And should the Super Bowl return to the region, as organizers are already predicting, Bergerac promised there would be a full-court press to ensure the historic trolleys remain running next time. “I think we have a new appreciation for the F-Line,” he said. “We knew it had an effect on business. I don’t think we realized how much we really appreciated it. There are certain things that make San Francisco very unique, and I think the F-Line is a huge one.” Those Castro merchants who lost money due to the Super Bowl may be able to recoup some of their losses should a proposal from District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin be adopted. On Tuesday he, and District 6 Supervisor Jane Kim, introduced a supplemental appropriation that would set aside an initial $100,000 from the city’s budget reserves to defray the financial losses incurred by small businesses as a result of Super Bowl 50. Asked by the B.A.R. if Castro merchants could apply, Peskin’s office said the criteria for applying for the fiscal relief would be fleshed out in the legislative process. Peskin’s intent with the fund is to help small
Throughout the city there were various complaints about the Super Bowl, with businesses near the fan village also complaining about it negatively impacting their bottom line. And homeless advocates railed against city leaders for spending $5 million to host the weeklong party. The gay-owned Virgil’s Sea Room in the Mission decided to turn the dispute into an advantage. It announced it would donate a portion of bar sales Sunday to the Coalition on Homelessness and was able to raise $250. “The Super Bowl left a sour taste in a lot of San Franciscans’ mouths,” said bar co-owner Tom Temprano, a gay man and local party promoter. “As a business, we felt if we were doing anything around the Super Bowl we should use it to help homeless people get access to services and help get a roof over their heads.” On Tuesday gay District 8 Supervisor Scott Wiener called for any revenues generated by Super Bowl 50, such as an increase in hotel taxes, to fund solutions to house those people living in tents on city streets as well as to clean the areas impacted by tent encampments. “A city that truly cares about its residents won’t allow them to live in tents on our streets,” stated Wiener, who was heavily criticized by homeless advocates for a letter he sent to various city agencies asking what they were doing to house the people in the tents and not allow them to remain on the streets. “We can take a great step forward in transitioning people off of our streets by directing See page 14 >>
YOU’LL FALL head over HEALDSBURG
In the famed Sonoma County wine country. Local hospitality meets San Francisco chic.
CELEBRATE SUSTAINABILITY Healdsburg is honored to host – Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Cooking for Solutions – On the Road February 27-28
Bakeries, bistros, tasting rooms and 5-star restaurants. Stylish boutiques, art galleries and antique shops. Picnic baskets brimming with local farmers’ market delicacies.
Taste of Healdsburg at Jordan Winery Warming Wintertime Lunch at SHED Details: healdsburg.com/events
www.healdsburg.com
Taste the wine country the way Northern Californians do. And like everyone who visits, you’ll fall head over Healdsburg.
<< Open Forum
8 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
Volume 46, Number 6 February 11-17, 2016 www.ebar.com PUBLISHER Michael M. Yamashita Thomas E. Horn, Publisher Emeritus (2013) Publisher (2003 – 2013) Bob Ross, Founder (1971 – 2003) NEWS EDITOR Cynthia Laird ARTS EDITOR Roberto Friedman BARTAB EDITOR & EVENTS LISTINGS EDITOR Jim Provenzano ASSISTANT EDITORS Matthew S. Bajko • Seth Hemmelgarn CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ray Aguilera • Tavo Amador • Race Bannon Erin Blackwell • Roger Brigham Brian Bromberger • Victoria A. Brownworth Brent Calderwood • Philip Campbell Heather Cassell • Belo Cipriani Richard Dodds • Michael Flanagan Jim Gladstone • David Guarino Liz Highleyman • Brandon Judell • John F. Karr Lisa Keen • Matthew Kennedy • Joshua Klipp David Lamble • Max Leger Michael McDonagh • David-Elijah Nahmod Paul Parish • Sean Piverger • Lois Pearlman Tim Pfaff • Jim Piechota • Bob Roehr Donna Sachet • Adam Sandel • Khaled Sayed Jason Serinus • Gregg Shapiro Gwendolyn Smith • Sari Staver • Jim Stewart Sean Timberlake • Andre Torrez • Ronn Vigh Ed Walsh • Cornelius Washington Sura Wood ART DIRECTION Jay Cribas PRODUCTION/DESIGN Max Leger PHOTOGRAPHERS Jane Philomen Cleland • FBFE Rick Gerharter • Gareth Gooch Lydia Gonzales • Jose Guzman-Colon Rudy K. Lawidjaja • Georg Lester • Dan Lloyd Jo-Lynn Otto • Rich Stadtmiller Steven Underhil • Dallis Willard • Bill Wilson ILLUSTRATORS & CARTOONISTS Paul Berge • Christine Smith ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION Colleen Small VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVERTISING Scott Wazlowski – 415.829.8937 NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media – 212.242.6863
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Super Bowl was super bummer for some
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ow that Super Bowl 50 is over, we should take stock of the experience. Decisions made by business and political leaders who played a role in hosting the event can be improved because San Francisco will face the same challenges in the future. From the beginning of the campaign, Super Bowl 50 was touted for its “diversity.” The National Lesbian and Gay Chamber of Commerce breathlessly promoted its successful negotiations with the National Football League to open up contracting to qualified LGBTowned businesses as a sign that the NFL was being inclusive in its contracting process. Chamber-certified businesses were qualified to bid on various contracts. In the end, only a handful of gay business owners received contracts. If the Bay Area is to host a Super Bowl again – and the chances seem good if they can ever figure out how to install a durable turf field at Levi’s Stadium – several things need to be reimagined to avoid some of these mistakes.
Keep F-Line running
It’s often said one truly appreciates something after it’s gone. That was certainly true for the San Francisco Bay Area Super Bowl 50 Host Committee’s disastrous decision to halt the F-Line streetcar from the Embarcadero, site of the free Super Bowl City fan village, to the Castro. Replacing the historic streetcars with buses likely kept thousands of people from visiting the Castro, and negatively affected businesses. Anecdotal evidence points to emptier shops last week, despite the 1.1 million people who were in town visiting Super Bowl City and the NFL Experience at Moscone Center. Paul Rose, spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Agency, said in an email that the F-Line is still not running four days after the closure of Super Bowl City
because the Market Street, Stueart Street, Don Chee Way, and the Embarcadero aren’t yet open. Additionally, he explained that there is “possible work on Saturday to remove the Verizon sign that will require the F-Line to be closed that day.” (The F-Line is supposed to start running again on Valentine’s Day, according to transit officials.) The fan village should have been designed so that it did not impede public transit. The host committee had nine days to promote San Francisco, yet access to one of the most famous neighborhoods was largely diminished. Tourists love taking the colorful streetcars, but they were taken out of commission when they would have been attractive assets. The host committee wouldn’t dream of stopping the cable cars. It’s time that city officials and others realize that the F-Line is just as beloved – and provides a crucial link to the gayborhood.
Promoting the Castro
As part of MTA’s plan to replace streetcars with bus shuttles shortly before Super Bowl City opened, banners were installed in the downtown Muni/BART stations informing passengers that they could take several Muni
Metro lines to the Castro. The banners were humorous, reading. “Why just stare at sea lions when you can pet actual bears. The Friendly Castro.” But they were too little, too late, and they were hard to read if you were rushing into or out of the stations. In retrospect, perhaps the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District could have joined the Castro Merchants in a promotional campaign and generated publicity from the thousands of journalists in town, drawing people to both destinations.
Fair reimbursement
The greatest mistake was the bone-headed decision by city officials not to seek reimbursement from the NFL for all the costs associated with hosting the Super Bowl events. When this was revealed in a scathing report by the city budget analyst in mid-January, some supervisors, including Jane Kim, who’s now running for state Senate, tried to draft emergency legislation to seek reimbursement of nearly $5 million that the city is shelling out for security and other costs. But Kim’s move rang hollow after it was revealed that she voted to support hosting the Super Bowl in 2012. Mayor Ed Lee and other officials tried to spin the analyst’s report, noting that the city would see a bump in hotel tax revenue. But at a time when the mayor is requesting that city departments find ways to save money, it’s ridiculous that San Francisco leaders never thought to seek reimbursement from the NFL, which has a budget of about $10 billion. Meanwhile, in Santa Clara, where the game was actually played, officials sought and will receive reimbursement from the NFL. It’s a costly lesson that we hope the supervisors learn if the city ever bids again for a Super Bowl or some large sporting event. In the future, any host committee needs to reach out to all segments of the city’s residents, including LGBTs, and include our community from the beginning planning stages. We can do better than hanging a few banners and granting a few contracts to gay businesses the next time.t
5 deadly misconceptions about meth by David Fawcett
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2. “Meth addiction couldn’t happen to me” Every client of mine believed that they were fully capable of controlling this drug. They felt they could handle meth several times a year at circuit parties. Indeed, some could. Despite their best efforts, however, many saw their use increasing to the point that their lives were dominated by meth use and recovery from binges lasting for days. Nor is meth use restricted to young gay men. This year I had my first meth client in his 70s.
rystal, Tina. Meth. No matter what you call it, methamphetamine use among gay men is once again on the rise, and the consequences are dire. According to the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Study, use of the drug in the New York gay community has more than doubled David Fawcett, in three years. Similar findings Ph.D., LCSW are reported for Los Angeles and San Francisco. Meth is utilized for sexual enhancement among gay men, many of whom underestimate its danger or feel that 3. Meth permanently damages sexuality they, unlike many others around them, will Meth does indeed harm sexual functioning escape its destruction. Among gay men, meth by quickly fusing intense, sexual desire with an is the most criminalized and least-understood intoxicated state. Users who are abstinent from drug, and all meth users experience stigma the drug commonly experience post-meth that impedes their recovery. In my book, Lust, fallout: a lack of sexual desire, problems with Men, and Meth: A Gay Man’s Guide to Sex and sexual functioning, and a belief that sex Recovery, I combine 20 years of therapy seswithout meth is boring. This is not sions with meth-using clients with personal a permanent condition, but it reresearch to document this drug’s impact, proquires reconfiguring your rituals viding users with a pathway to both physical around sexuality, dispensing with recovery and healthy sex with intimacy. To “meth-sex” habits, and no longer end the meth epidemic, we first need to clarify utilizing pornography previousmeth misconceptions. ly associated with the drug. Sex without meth (or other drugs) 1. Meth recovery is impossible may be frightening for gay Gay men believe that escaping meth’s grasp men, yet sex and intimacy after is unattainable. But many men in recovery, meth is possible. In Lust, Men, as well as addictions professionals, know and Meth, I document how, through diligent otherwise. Increasing numbers of treatment self-examination, reclaiming sex and intimacy programs serve meth-using gay men. Crystal after meth can be fully achieved. However, in Meth Anonymous meetings in most urban his January 28 Bay Area Reporter review of areas are filled to capacity, and thousands of my book, (http://www.ebar.com/arts/art_armen have many years of recovery from meth. ticle.php?sec=books&article=999) Mitchell It is true that multiple relapses are typical, and Halberstadt describes these processes as “psyI believe that harm reduction strategies such as chobabble,” claiming they lack any grounding needle-exchange, education, and outreach are in hard science. Yet the impact of meth on the essential on the way to abstinence. But with brain has been mapped by the National Instibetter information, treatment opportunities, tute on Drug Abuse, and the efficacy of cogniand support resources in the community, gay tive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, meditamen have the tools they need to get past meth. tion, and group processes is well established.
Denying this is to divorce oneself from the best meth treatments available. 4. Meth allows gay men to authentically connect Most gay men seek connection with other gay men. Having been stigmatized and shamed, we seek the safety and intimacy of relationships. While many of these connections are sexual, we also strive for authentic friendship and a supportive community. Connections on meth have the illusory feel of authenticity, but ultimately are self-destructive, exploitative, and degrading. They erode healthy relationships, leaving the user without partners, friends or social support when the drugs run out. 5. A dialogue about meth stigmatizes the community and meth users One nationally known addictions specialist described meth as “the HIV of this generation,” yet there is a puzzling reluctance to speak openly and frankly about this epidemic. Meth destroys careers, friendships, lives, and relationships. Discussing it impugns neither meth users nor our community. In his B.A.R. review, Halberstadt claims that I stigmatize meth users by pointing out their self-destructive behavior. I do exactly the opposite. As I note in Lust, Men, and Meth, “it’s not the person who is bad or shameful; it’s a very nasty drug that hijacks sexual desire and clear thinking, often with disastrous personal consequences.” Let’s help each other move past this epidemic.t David Fawcett, Ph.D., LCSW, a nationallyrecognized psychotherapist in mental health and drug treatment, is author of the book Lust, Men and Meth: A Gay Man’s Guide to Sex and Recovery (Healing Path Press). Learn more at http://www.davidfawcett.com/.
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Letters >>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 9
More protection needed in Castro
I have a concern about the area of 18th and Castro streets. Surely, especially when the bars close down, some of our intoxicated friends can become victims of the more criminal elements of the homeless in the area. I was helping a tipsy friend of mine walk a few blocks and we were followed by a guy that I have seen several times in the area. I took another route to get where we were going, but ended up running into that guy again. I saw him make a phone call, and later some guy showed up to assist me in picking up my friend, who had fallen. I believe that it is possible that when that guy helped, he also could have pickpocketed my friend, who could not find his wallet later on. In a sense I got the guy following us to go away by telling him that I was going to start yelling and that all of the neighbors were going to come out. I feel that there should be more protection especially at those hours. Also we should run an experiment by having a few guys act as if they are intoxicated at that time, to see who approaches them and what they will try to do to them. Jim Green Concord, California
To those retiring soon: Beware
I am living on a long-term private disability insurance policy. It expires on my 65th birthday, paying nothing after that date. This is not uncommon among those living with HIV aged 50 and over. In fact, according to a
survey I worked on in 2013, about 6 percent of those who participated had private disability insurance. (The letter writer is the principal author of “HIV and Aging: A Survey in Three San Francisco Area Counties – San Francisco City and County, San Mateo County, Marin County,” San Francisco State University 2013. To download a copy, visit http://www.sfcarecouncil.org/Documents/ documents.htm. Scroll down to “Needs Assessments,” “HIV & Aging (2013), 1. Presentation 2. Research Paper.) However, if one requests their statement from the Social Security Administration, a figure of X dollars a month is displayed in large type as the benefit for Social Security retirement at “full retirement age.” Despite this, one has to dig through the fine print on the SSA statement to find that the “full retirement age” in my case is actually 66, not 65. Using a retirement benefit calculator on the SSA’s website, I found that when my private disability policy expires on my 65th birthday my actual retirement benefit from SSA retirement at age 65 is actually “early retirement,” according to the SSA retirement policies and is about 7 percent lower than the amount in large print (age 66) of “full retirement” on the SSA statement. Folks anticipating retirement may wish to take this under consideration as they plan for their retirement, as a 7 percent lower than anticipated retirement income from SSA can be a costly consequence in an expensive cost of living area such as the San Francisco Bay Area. Loren Meissner, MA San Francisco
SF could see no out supervisor come 2017 by Matthew S. Bajko
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or the first time in nearly four decades, there is a remote possibility of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors having no LGBT members come January 2017. Since Harvey Milk’s election in 1977 as the first out person to serve on the board, there has been at least one LGBT supervisor. Following Milk’s death in 1978, Harry Britt was named as his successor and was re-elected to his seat throughout the 1980s. The first out lesbians elected to the board came in 1990, with the victories of Roberta Achtenberg and Carole Migden. At certain times since, there have been at most three out supervisors serving on the 11-member board (though no transgender person has ever served and just one bisexual person has). Now, due to term limits, the outcome of a state Senate race and several supervisor contests, the fall general election could result in zero LGBT supervisors on the board. Under such a scenario, Mayor Ed Lee would face enormous pressure to name an LGBT person to fill a board vacancy. (District 11 Supervisor John Avalos has floated placing a ballot measure before voters in November that would strip the mayor of his power to fill board vacancies. Instead, he could only name a placeholder who would be barred from running for the seat when the election is held to serve out the remainder of the term.) “We live in interesting times. While it is true that our LGBT allies in elected office have done amazing things on our behalf, and I don’t advocate for an endorsement based solely on identity, it is very true that it is still difficult for LGBT persons to get elected in San Francisco to office, and that we need to give an extra push of support to overcome hurdles,” noted Gabriel Haaland, a transgender man and longtime political director of Service Employees International Union Local 1021. “In particular, LGBT people of color face even more challenges.” What is without doubt this election cycle is gay District 9 Supervisor David Campos will be termed
Rick Gerharter
Rick Gerharter
Gay District 7 candidate Joel Engardio
District 7 Supervisor Norman Yee
off the board in early January. And for the first time since the switch back to district elections in 2000, no LGBT person is expected to run for Campos’ seat representing the Mission district. As for the state Senate contest, gay District 8 Supervisor Scott Wiener is running against District 6 Supervisor Jane Kim. The District 11 Senate seat, which covers all of San Francisco and a portion of northern San Mateo County, is currently held by gay state Senator Mark Leno (DSan Francisco). Should Wiener win, he would be sworn into the legislative office in early December. It would then be up to the mayor to name his replacement to the District 8 seat, which covers the gay Castro district and is considered to be the board’s LGBT seat. Gay college board member Alex Randolph and lesbian library commissioner Zoe Dunning are both considered to be possible picks, though many expect Randolph has an edge. Neither of the mayor’s two female board appointees, including bisexual former District 5 Supervisor Christina Olague, was able to win election to their seats. And no lesbian candidate has ever won election to the District 8 seat. “It is almost unthinkable for the mayor to have to appoint to this historically LGBT seat and to choose a non-LGBT person. I would find
it hard to believe, but you never know,” said Tom Temprano, a gay man and Mission bar owner who plans to run again this year for a city college board seat after falling short in his bid last year against Randolph. In the case of Kim winning the Senate race, then Lee will likely face calls to name the city’s first transgender supervisor as her replacement. District 6 includes the Tenderloin and South of Market, two neighborhoods long the home for many of the city’s transgender residents. Under that election result, Wiener would still have two more years on the board. And depending on the outcome of this year’s supervisor races, one or more out candidates could join him. With Avalos also unable to run again due to term limits, lesbian union organizer Kimberly Alvarenga is running for his seat covering the city’s southern neighborhoods of the Excelsior, Ingleside, Oceanview, Outer Mission, and Crocker-Amazon. She faces a strong challenge, however, from Ahsha Safai, who is also a union official and lost to Avalos in 2008. Her potentially being the first lesbian elected to the board since 2000 is already drawing Alvarenga interest within the city’s LGBT community. The Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club invited her to take part on a recent panel it hosted about the lack of women in elected office, allowing its members a chance to learn more about her campaign. See page 12 >>
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<< Community News
10 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
Heart art includes gay artist, LGBT themes by Jeffrey Hartinger
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gay artist and gay themes are part of this year’s Hearts in San Francisco series and the 2016 sculptures will debut next week at the annual Heroes and Hearts luncheon and Hearts After Dark at AT&T Park. The heart art and events are a benefit for the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation, which raises funds for the hospital, now known formally as the Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. Over the past decade, the Hearts in San Francisco series has raised more than $13 million, which provides funding for innovative initia-
tives and programs at the hospital that might otherwise go unfunded. In 2015, 28 Hearts grants were funded, totaling over $1 million in support. For those close to the cause, they’re continuing the momentum this year. “Our ‘heartworks’ have become iconic to the San Francisco landscape and the unveiling of each year’s heart sculpture series is a much anticipated and celebrated event,” said Amanda Heier, executive director of the SFGH foundation. “Hearts in San Francisco serves as a stunning visual reminder that Zuckerberg San Francisco General offers the very best care to everyone in our increasingly diverse community.”
For the 2016 series, 19 artists were selected to represent the unique artistic landscape of San Francisco, in addition to highlighting the wide range of residents that the hospital serves. Marconi Calindas, an artist who married his husband after Proposition 8 was overturned in 2013, was inspired by the LGBT community. His large heart, “SF Sunflowers,” portrays how “San Franciscans are vibrant and have always been full of color.” The Philippines-born artist noted that a majority of his art evokes a theme that surrounds the struggles of the global LGBT community. “I have always believed in creating art not just for art’s sake but to convey a message that can move and change the society,” he said. For artist Laura Lineback, it’s her second time being featured in the Hearts series. She finds that educating the public is both a rewarding and necessary duty. Lineback, an ally who describes herself as “heteroflexible,” was also inspired by her father, who died three years ago from a heart attack. Her table-top heart is titled “Love Wins,” and features the colors of the rainbow flag. “Knowing my work will aid in the cost of a foundation that helps people in need of important health care is powerful and special. It goes beyond art for art’s sake and gives real purpose to the work,” said Lineback. “I’m mostly interested in get-
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“SF Sunflowers” heart sculpture by Marconi Calindas
“Love Wins” heart sculpture by Laura Lineback
ting people to understand what the hearts are about. So many people love the hearts and take their picture with them daily, but they don’t know what they represent.” For her, knowledge and awareness is key. In addition to the gay artist and LGBT-themed heart sculptures, one of this year’s heroes who will be recognized next week is a gay man. James Larson has been dedicated to eye and vision care at Zuckerberg San Francisco General since the 1980s. Larson began as a technician in the clinic and has played a key role in preserving and restoring the sight of thousands of patients over the years. He is now a supervisor of the clinic in the Department of Ophthalmology. During the HIV/ AIDS epidemic, Larson was a stabilizing force of compassionate care
at the epicenter of the Cytomegalovirus retinitis outbreak that caused blindness for many patients. Later, Larson was the leader and driving force behind the hospital’s eye care outreach program, the Eye Van, bringing vision services to patients throughout the city who are unable to travel to Zuckerberg San Francisco General for care. Area residents can see the 2016 hearts as they will join other privately-owned sculptures on display throughout the city. The annual Hearts Signature Events – Heroes and Hearts luncheon and Hearts After Dark – take place Thursday, February 18, on the field at AT&T Park. Tickets to the luncheon are $300; general admission to the nighttime event is $100. For more information, visit www. sfghf.org.t
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bathroom-obsessed, anti-LGBT group based in Sacramento is threatening San Francisco officials with a lawsuit if they don’t remove the recently installed pissoir from Mission Dolores Park. Pacific Justice Institute, which is best known for its failed efforts to restrict transgender people’s access to public restrooms in California, says it’s concerned about people publicly exposing their private parts when they use the outdoor, open air urinal. In a February 4 letter to San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee and other officials, Kevin Snider, PJI’s chief counsel, says, “The open-air urination hole” violates people’s privacy because they “would be required to expose their bodies and suffer the shame and deg-
David-Elijah Nahmod
Artist Jokie X Wilson demonstrates the new pissoir at Mission Dolores Park.
radation of urinating in public view.” The pissoir also violates the rights of people who “happen to come upon the one urinating,” meaning possible
exposure to the user’s “genitals, perineum, or anal region,” Snider writes. He also says the pissoir “is particularly egregious” to females, since they have to squat. (The pissoir is not intended for women.) “Women and girls would be subject to extreme embarrassment in a measure not experienced by men or boys who merely unzip their trousers when urinating,” Snider says. PJI is giving the city 20 days to remove the pissoir. The group said in a news release that “local residents have been complaining to officials” about the device, which is located near 20th and Church streets and is part of the park’s recent remodeling. In a phone interview, Brad Dacus, the group’s president, said he didn’t See page 14 >>
Leno, Lee hold Lunar New Year parties compiled by Cynthia Laird
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ocal politicians will ring in the Lunar New Year with parties, celebrating the Year of the Monkey. First up, gay state Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) will hold a Lunar New Year reception Friday, February 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. at his office in the State Building, 455 Golden Gate Avenue in San Francisco. Leno will be joined by his Assembly colleagues, David Chiu (D) and Phil Ting (D) to welcome the Chinese New Year. Light refreshments will be served. Those interested in attending should RSVP at Senator.Leno@senate.ca.gov or call (415) 557-1300. On Tuesday, February 16, Mayor Ed Lee and his wife, Anita; along with Supervisors London Breed, Jane Kim, Eric Mar, Katy Tang, and Norman Yee; and Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu, will celebrate
legal services to underserved populations living with HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, or other chronic health conditions. Bill Hirsch, executive director of ALRP, said in an email that the alliance works to help people stay Rick Gerharter AIDS collaborative healthy. gets grant “The goal is to provide State Senator Dignity Health St. Mark Leno systems navigation to Mary’s Medical Center has help folks stay healthy, awarded nearly $107,000 and wisely, the collaboto two San Francisco organizaration recognizes the role that legal tions through its annual comservices provides in helping people munity grants program. to stay healthy,” he said. “It may One of the recipients is the be hard to focus on your health or San Francisco Care and Jusmaking your medical appointments tice Alliance, a collaboraif you are losing your housing.” tive project comprised The alliance also works to help of three communitypatients maintain relationships with based organizations: their medical providers. Shanti Project, the JusKaushik Roy, executive director tice and Diversity Center of Shanti, said the collaboration is of the Bar Association, and the AIDS getting $66,948 from the grant. Legal Referral Panel. The alliance proSee page 13 >> vides medical treatment referral and
Lunar New Year in the City Hall Rotunda. The program runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served in the North Light Court after the program.
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<< Election 2016
12 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
<<
New Hampshire
From page 1
but anecdotal information in both states suggests the LGBT vote was split between Clinton and Sanders. In an opinion piece for the Concord Monitor newspaper Friday, former New Hampshire state Representative Mo Baxley, who headed up the state Freedom to Marry group, endorsed Sanders. Gay state Representative Ed Butler and Portsmouth Councilmember and Assistant Mayor Jim Splaine backed Clinton. Baxley credited Sanders with standing up for the LGBT community long before it was acceptable. “Only a few brave souls outside our community were willing to stand with us” during the early years of the AIDS epidemic, said Baxley. But during those years, “then-Mayor of Burlington Bernie Sanders was banning housing discrimination against gays and lesbians, and signing city proclamations for Burlington’s gay Pride march.” Baxley, who served on the New Hampshire for Bernie steering committee, also noted that Sanders was one of only 67 members of the U.S. House to vote against the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996. “I remember how he called out another member of Congress on the House floor when that member, Duke Cunningham, used a homophobic slur about LGBT people serving in the military,” wrote Baxley. “I remember when Vermont passed civil unions and how he supported that earth-shattering first step. Bernie Sanders was one of the first senators to come out publicly in support of full marriage equality.” Splaine, who shepherded the
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Political Notebook
From page 9
The more progressive Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club is set to early endorse her in the race at its meeting this month. Temprano, a former Milk club president, said among the myriad reasons he supports her campaign is that since he has lived in the city there has not been a lesbian supervisor. It is “unthinkable,” he added,
state’s marriage equality bill through as a state representative, said he appreciates Clinton’s “fight against AIDS and discrimination against those living with HIV.” “While I appreciate the support on the cause by others like Bernie Sanders, and thank them, I know that Hillary Clinton had joined the cause – done the work – led the fight – achieved success – at the times when it mattered most.” Butler said he likes Sanders but doesn’t believe Sanders is “electable.” “I don’t believe he’s electable, no matter what the polls say, no matter what my good friends who love him and will vote for him say, I just don’t think this country is going to elect someone who espouses socialist principles as deeply as he does,” said Butler. Clinton, he said, “is the best person for the job, plain and simple. I am incredibly impressed with the depth and breadth of her knowledge and experience.” Butler endorsed Obama over Clinton in 2008. What’s changed? “Hillary has changed to a certain extent,” said Butler. “And the dynamic of the race has changed to another extent.” Butler said Clinton gained a lot of valuable experience as secretary of state and that she’s become “personally more accessible” in this campaign, compared to 2008. “In meeting her this time, talking with her, working with her campaign, seeing her countless times as she has been through the state, she is a real person, she is an accessible person, she listens and responds to people’s personal concerns,” said Butler. “I’ve grown to like her a whole lot.” “I’m 66 years old,” said Butler.
“I’ve evolved and my understanding of what we can achieve as a community, and I think that Hillary has evolved as well. I trust that she supports the entire width and breadth of our community.” Butler said there’s no way to know just how divided the LGBT community in New Hampshire is, and he knows people supporting both candidates.
“you would be looking at a Board of Supervisors having as little as one LGBT person, let alone zero, in a city known globally for having led on LGBT representation.” The only other odd-numbered supervisor race this year that has drawn an out candidate, to date, is in District 7 west of Twin Peaks. As incumbent Supervisor Norman Yee seeks a second four-year term, gay local Democratic Party official Joel Engardio is again running against
him. In their 2012 race, Engardio landed in fourth place. “While some may say it isn’t possible, I believe that District 7 is ready to elect an openly gay supervisor for the first time,” Engardio told the B.A.R. “My husband and I live in a neighborhood where half the voters supported the Prop 8 ban of samesex marriage in 2008. This was the old District 7. But look at every home in District 7 that has changed hands after decades of ownership
Trump ‘just having fun’
In an incident that drew a lot of media attention, Trump laughed and made much ado about a female audience member’s yelling out “pussy” when Trump was describing Cruz’s position on waterboarding as an interrogation technique. When audience members couldn’t hear the woman’s first pronouncement, Trump asked her to shout it out again and then he blared it out. “You’re not allowed to say – and I never expect to hear that from you again,” he said, speaking directly to the woman. “She said [he’s] a pussy. That’s terrible.” The audience roared its approval and Trump seemed to enjoy the response. On MSNBC’s Morning Joe Tuesday, Trump brushed off the incident, saying, “We were all just having fun. It was a great moment. I got a standing ovation. The place went wild. ... All I was doing was repeating because people couldn’t hear it, so I was doing everybody a favor.” Log Cabin Republicans President Gregory Angelo chalked it up to “just another madcap event in a campaign fueled by one madcap event after another.” But another prominent gay conservative, Jimmy LaSalvia of the now-defunct GOProud group, said
he was “appalled to see a presidential candidate behave like that and repeat the word. ...” “The real pussies are all the members of the Republican Party who haven’t stood up to him and [have] allowed his campaign to go on as long as it has,” said LaSalvia. “Now, they have allowed him to define their party.” And Rich Tafel, former president of the national Log Cabin group, said, “I find Trump engaging in high school bully-like behavior and the mainstream media is like the high school boys and girls who simply can’t get enough of it and give him the attention he craves. The entertainment industry created him and the political press perpetuates him. The views he’s tapped into are important to give voice to, just not the way he does it.” Interestingly, last Thursday Trump said LGBT people could expect continued progress under a Trump White House. He was answering a question from lesbian journalist Sue O’Connell of New England Cable News. She asked Trump if LGBTs could expect progress on LGBT issues to continue in a Trump White House. “Well, you can,” said Trump. “And look, we’re going to bring people together. And that’s your thing, and other people have their thing. We have to bring all together and if we don’t, we’re not going to have a country anymore.”
Rubio under siege
It was an especially hard week for Rubio, a candidate some Log Cabin Republicans showed an interest in months ago. But after last Saturday’s Republican debate on ABC, and you see a new, increasingly diverse District 7 that is looking more toward the future than the past.” Engardio added that it “won’t be the end of the world” if there was a gap in having LGBT representation on the supervisors “for a time,” especially if one or more of the straight mothers running for supervisor this year are elected. “But if we’re going to have at least one LGBT supervisor, it would say a lot if they were elected in the western
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Rubio has been losing support. The reason? He kept repeating a well-rehearsed (though awkwardly worded) criticism of Obama after New Jersey Governor Chris Christie taunted him for just repeating wellrehearsed spiels. His uncomfortable exchange with a gay man at a diner in Manchester on Monday also gained considerable publicity. According to the New York Times, Rubio and his son were doing a campaign walk-through a very crowded diner when he came up to a table occupied by Timothy Kierstead, his husband, and mother. Kierstead used the occasion to ask Rubio, “Why do you want to put me back in the closet?” “I don’t,” replied Rubio. “You can live any way you want.” Kierstead told Rubio he thinks Rubio’s positions treat Kierstead and his husband as if “we don’t matter.” “No, I just believe marriage is between one man and one woman,” said Rubio, according to the Times. “Well, that’s your belief,” said Kierstead. “I think that’s what the law should be,” added Rubio, “and if you don’t agree, you should have the law changed by a legislature.” In fact, the New Hampshire Legislature did change the law to treat same-sex couples the same as straight couples in marriage licensing, back in 2010. Later, at the same diner, Rubio approached a 92-year-old woman who asked him whether Graham, a former presidential candidate, is gay. The Times reported that Rubio chuckled and said “No.” (The Boston Globe has a video of the exchange, provided by the American Bridge PAC.)t or southwestern neighborhoods, given the history of those areas not being the most LGBT-friendly,” he added.t Web Extra: For more queer political news, be sure to check http:// www.ebar.com Monday mornings at noon for Political Notes, the notebook’s online companion. This week’s column reported CA LGBT Dems want the 2016 state party platform to support gender-neutral bathrooms.
Actor-singer Aaron Wimmer dies by David-Elijah Nahmod
S
hock waves reverberated throughout the Bay Area’s theater and LGBT communities when news spread of the sudden, unexpected death of Aaron Wimmer on February 2. He was 37. Mr. Wimmer was a gay man who was a well-known performer on Bay Area and New York stages and had recently rejoined the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. The announcement was made on the Facebook page of Oakland resident Jasamyn Wimmer, Mr. Wimmer’s younger sister. “For those of you who do not know my brother Aaron Wimmer passed away today,” she wrote last week. “My brother Aaron was my best friend, we always claimed to be twins because we really were similar in so many ways. His heart was so big, he just couldn’t handle the cruelty of this wretched place. I tried so hard to save him, I don’t think I’ll ever be at peace with this. The world certainly lost an angel today.” Mr. Wimmer’s death is being investigated by the San Francisco Medical Examiner’s office. A staffer at the office who declined to state his name told the Bay Area Reporter that Mr. Wimmer’s death was still a pending case. Mr. Wimmer’s career as an actor took him from coast to coast, where he appeared in many acclaimed productions, often in gay-themed works. Less than a month before his death,
he had contacted the gay men’s chorus stating that he wanted to “come home.” Tim Seelig, artistic director conductor for the chorus, recalled his first meeting with Mr. Wimmer. “A few years ago, at our normal auditions, this really sweet, handsome young man walked in and sang and blew us away – not just with his talent, but his smile and his gentle, humble spirit,” Seelig said. “He didn’t need to be ‘up front.’ That said, when our 25th anniversary tribute to Harvey Milk approached, we naturally asked him to step up and use his exceptional acting abilities to read a letter written by a young man to Harvey Milk. Aaron read the poem as the chorus sang ‘Falling Slowly’ from the musical Once. It was breathtakingly stunning.” Milk, the gay San Francisco supervisor who was assassinated in City Hall in 1978, proved to be a recurring figure in Mr. Wimmer’s acting career. In 2013 he portrayed well-known gay activist Cleve Jones, a personal friend of Milk’s, in Patricia Loughrey’s Dear Harvey at the New Conservatory Theatre Center. That same year he joined Sister Roma of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and others for a dramatic reading of Milk’s legendary “Give em hope” speech. The reading took place in Jane Warner Plaza as part of that year’s Harvey Milk Day commemoration. “Aaron had the qualities you would attribute to a modern day Prince Charming,” Roma said. “He was dashingly handsome, kind-
Courtesy Aaron Wimmer’s Facebook page
Actor and singer Aaron Wimmer
hearted, and had the voice of an angel. He was passionate about acting, writing, and activism, often combining his talents to appear in and produce events that raised awareness to issues and people, like his tribute to Harvey Milk in Jane Warner Plaza. I read with him that day and Aaron’s performance was exciting and vibrant – just like him. I will miss him dearly.” Jones told the B.A.R. that at first he wasn’t sure that Mr. Wimmer was the right actor to portray him. “I thought he was too tall and too handsome,” Jones said. But he admitted that Mr. Wimmer’s sensitivity turned out to be exactly right for Dear Harvey. “I used to see him around the neighborhood,” Jones added. “He was always so sweet, kind, smart, and lovely. I’m terribly sorry for his friends and family.”
David A. Diaz was one such friend. Diaz spoke to the B.A.R. of the intense sense of loss and pain that Mr. Wimmer’s friends and family were experiencing. “It’s rare to find someone who was as gifted as he was in so many artistic fields,” Diaz said, noting that Mr. Wimmer also wrote poetry. “He was physically beautiful, yet so humble. You don’t find that often.” The accolades for Mr. Wimmer poured in from both coasts. Playwright-director Ronnie Larson recalled Mr. Wimmer as “an actor who always pushed himself to be better and better.” Larson worked with Mr. Wimmer in an off-Broadway production of his play Sleeping With Straight Men. “He loved to rehearse and he was incredibly easy to work with,” Larson said. “He was incredibly natural and charming on stage and audiences had an instant connection with him. He was also fearless and never said no.” Larson included a personal recollection that spoke to Mr. Wimmer’s sensitivity. They were working on another show in which the cast wasn’t getting along. “One day things got so heated and the pressure was so intense that he literally fainted and had to be taken to the hospital,” Larson recounted. “He was unbelievably sensitive to other people’s feelings. He was the ultimate team player. It’s impossible for me to remember him without a huge smile on his face.”
Leon Acord also recalled that sensitivity when he directed Mr. Wimmer during the third season of the gay web series “Old Dogs and New Tricks.” “He was perfect in the part,” Acord said. “He was so nervous when we first started shooting, he actually stopped a take, saying ‘I’m sorry, I’m really nervous.’ He was so sincere, you couldn’t be upset. I took him aside, and said, ‘Aaron, you are perfect for this part. You’re exactly what I want. You don’t have anything to prove. Have fun. Just be yourself, and the viewers will love you.’ He was, and they did.” Acord added that he was devastated by the loss of Mr. Wimmer, who had signed on for the series’ fourth season. “Now I have to rewrite those scenes, and I’m not looking forward to it,” Acord said. In addition to his sister, an obituary posted on legacy.com said that Mr. Wimmer is survived by his partner, John Bowman, of San Francisco; mother, Jennifer Lynn Anderson, and stepfather, Al Cymbaluk, of Moab Utah; stepmother, Ruth Eccles Wimmer, of Hyde Park, Utah; and other family members. A memorial service for Mr. Wimmer was held in his home state of Utah February 11. A San Francisco memorial is in the planning stages. Details will be announced on the “Aaron’s Memorial” Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/Aarons-Memorial1646487572282852/.t
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Community News>>
Condom campaigns
From page 1
increased steeply in 2015, by 30.4 percent, from 874 to 1,140 cases. And early syphilis cases, those that are infectious, increased 9.5 percent from 1,114 to 1,220 cases. “We have to expect STD rates are not going to go down presently,” said Philip. “We need to find new approaches to engage people and allow people to have every single possible tool to make sure people are able to be sexually healthy.” Condoms are at the top of that list. As the STD monthly report noted, the health department “is planning approaches to improve sexual health and reduce rates of STDs, including expanding access to STD/HIV screening and supporting condoms as one effective option for STD/HIV prevention.” Philip, on behalf of the health department, recently wrote a letter to the
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Sex offender Jump from site
From From page page 13 1
according to Jeff Cretan, an aide to Wiener. The state issue involves a California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation regulation requiring contractors be at least 250 feet away from any facility that significantly serves minors. There are several childcare centers near the site, including the Mary Lane Infant and Toddler Center on Webster Street, and the Friends of St. Francis Children’s Center on Belcher as well as at a church on Church Street. The state had previously conducted a site visit but had not found those centers. The visit will be repeated, according to a post by Duboce Triangle resident Marc Heber on a closed Facebook page called “San Francisco Coalition for Neighborhood Quality of Life.” Sharper Future argues that it qualifies under both local and state regulations, while opponents disagree. The controversy began in January, when a Hoodline story disclosed that Sharper Future intended to move its sex offender rehabilitation program offices into 100
city’s school district endorsing its proposed policy to hand out condoms to middle school students. She pointed to the data from last year that showed the proportionate increases in STDs by age group were greater among 15-25 year-olds than those 26 and over. Among 15-25 year-olds in 2015, compared to 2014, there were 2,360 cases of chlamydia (a 12 percent increase), 863 gonorrhea cases (22 percent), and 103 early syphilis cases (17 percent), stated the report. Increases among those ages 26 and over were similar or smaller in 2015 compared to 2014: 4,852 chlamydia cases (26.6 percent increase), 3,400 gonorrhea cases (32.6 percent), and 1,116 early syphilis cases (9 percent), according to the report. “We know comprehensive sex education improves overall health. Understanding and having access to condoms is part of that,” she said. “Ideally, people will have an understanding or familiarity with con-
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 13
doms before they become sexually active, whether they have partners who are men, women, or both.” The health department will “drill down” further into the 2015 data on STD cases, said Philip, to determine if the increases are being driven among young gay and bisexual men or heterosexual adolescents. In past years nearly 90 percent of the city’s STD cases have been attributed to men who have sex with men. With the 2015 data on the younger age bracket, Philip said, “Our impression is it will be the case it is both gay men and heterosexual transmission.” Though she cautioned, “It may not be an even split.” She is also looking to hire a sexual behavioral health expert to consult with the health department as it develops strategies to reduce STD rates in the city.
New campaigns
Last summer the STD control sec-
Church Street. Community groups responded swiftly, with DTNA saying it was “blindsided” by the news and announcing that it would devote most of its February 8 meeting to the topic. In its February-March newsletter, DTNA said it took “no position” on the business itself, but the “unexpected announcement and lack of any vetting process has created a great deal of anxiety in the neighborhood.” In the meantime, a change.org Jane Philomen Cleland petition was launched (http://ow.ly/ Xq8C3), gathering over 900 signa- Sharper Future officials Kimberly tures, calling for a halt to the move. Yano, Ph.D., San Francisco site
Frustration boils over
coordinator, left; Mary-Perry Miller,
The community’s frustration Ph.D., president; and Tom Tobin, and anger was evident at the meet- CEO, address community members ing, when several dozen attendees Monday, February 8. repeatedly shouted down the speakfrom anything the company had ers trying to defend and justify the been through in the 15 other cities project. where it has locations. Much of the anger was directed “We have peacefully co-existed at Miller, who conceded that her with neighbors in San Francisco” organization “had stumbled” in its for over 20 years, she said. Sharper attempt to communicate its plans Future began in Pacific Heights in to the neighborhood. She said that the mid-1990s, and beginning in the organization had hired a public 2000, has been located in commerrelations firm to help it conduct furcial buildings on Market Street. Its ther outreach. current site at 1540 Market Street is Miller said that the dustup in being torn down, forcing the comDuboce Triangle has been different
tion hosted two town halls to hear directly from men who have sex with men what their ideas are for stopping the spread of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. More recently DPH has convened focus groups to assist it as it develops new social marketing campaigns that will debut this spring and in early summer. The first ads are expected to premiere in April, which is STD Awareness Month, on cable networks during shows with large gay audiences. The $5,000 worth of public service announcements will feature a message about how PrEP does not prevent STDs and encourages men who have sex with men to use condoms and get screened for STDs every three months. This summer the health department will roll out a similar campaign focused on men of color and transgender women. It will address “sexual health in a broad way,” explained Packer, “incorporat-
ing info about PrEP as well as STD prevention.” It has been eight years since DPH created its last public campaign focused on STDs, said Jacqueline McCright, the deputy director of the community health equity and promotion branch. That campaign was titled “Every Three For Me” and encouraged sexually active gay and bisexual men to get screened for STDs every three to six months. Past campaigns from the health department tended to focus separately on HIV and STDs, as there were different sections tasked with preventing either HIV or STDs. But after a recent reorganization of the department, those staffs are now grouped together and working more collaboratively. Thus, the new public messaging will also be broader in scope. “The campaigns we do need to address sexual health overall,” said Packer.t
pany to find a new location. Miller tried to convince the audience that the neighborhood would actually be safer with Sharper Future operating there. Some of the offenders already live in the neighborhood, while others may be allowed to visit in the area, although all wear some type of mandatory GPS monitor so that probation and parole officers know where they are at all times. Sex offenders are not “monsters who jump out of the bushes” to attack you, Miller explained. She said 95 percent of the victims are friends or relatives of the offender. Attendees also criticized Maitri Executive Director Michael Smithwick, a gay man, who explained that the rental income from the downstairs space accounts for a “significant portion” of Maitri’s budget. He said he signed a lease with Sharper Future only after an 18-month search failed to turn up any other suitable tenants. Smithwick said Maitri signed the lease because it appeared not to be controversial “in terms of permitting.” Now, said Smithwick, Maitri is required to stand by its contractual obligation. Several audience members, who did not identify themselves, said
they weren’t opposed to the idea that sexual offenders be offered rehabilitation services, but felt it should not be located in a residential neighborhood. Agreeing with that sentiment was Park Station police Captain John Sanford, who received a round of applause when said he had “great concerns” about sexual offender rehabilitation being done in a residential community. Several other audience members expressed their frustration that the “facts” presented by Sharper Future seemed to change. In an interview with the B.A.R., DTNA President Dennis Roybal said that he has found Sharper Future officials “secretive” and “inconsistent” about their business and plans to move to the community. For example, said Roybal, Sharper Future has maintained that most of its clients are not at high risk for relapse, yet state corrections documents require the company to have half their caseload of such individuals. The company “has not been direct or straightforward” in answering our questions, said Roybal. The B.A.R. contacted Sharper FuSee page 14 >>
Rehab rep blames Wiener for backlash by Seth Hemmelgarn
In a tersely worded email, a cofounder of Sharper Future, the sex offender rehabilitation group whose lack of outreach has stirred outrage, recently blamed Supervisor Scott Wiener for the backlash. “The problem here is not a failure of Sharper Future’s due diligence, but rather a ‘public relations’ problem that was not avoidable,” lesbian psychologist Mary-Perry Miller told Wiener in a January 25 message. “Where we find ourselves in this is not a failure of Sharper Future or Maitri,” the AIDS hospice Sharper Future will rent from. “While we understand that you are experiencing a lot of negative reactions from your constituents regarding this issue, we look to you for
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News Briefs
From page 10
“We’re thrilled to have Dignity Health’s support and confidence in this new, innovative partnership with ALRP and the Justice and Diversity Center of the San Francisco Bar Association,” Roy said in an email. The other group that received grant funding is the Asian Health Collaborative, which consists of nonprofits Self Help for the Elderly, Kimochi, and the Asian Women’s Resource Center/Gum Moon Women’s Residence. Together, the agencies work to improve the health of the communities in which they serve,
leadership to articulate ture’s work, but complaints the issues and correctly from neighbors have led to inform them of the facts the rehab’s move-in being of the situation in the put on hold. face of their predictable Continuing to attriextreme response,” she bute the problem to Wiesaid in her email. ner, Miller told the suWiener has said repervisor that she wished peatedly that when Maihe or Andres Power, his Rick Gerharter tri and Sharper Future chief of staff, would have first approached his office Supervisor talked to her or psywith the idea of the rehab Scott Wiener chologist Thomas Tobin, moving to the former another Sharper Future Out of the Closet thrift store space co-founder, “before you began at 100 Church Street, his staff urged making public statements about our them to do community outreach. tenancy” at the space. But neither Sharper Future nor “We believe that some of this Maitri told anybody about their plans negative reaction could have been until months later, just before the prevented, if not quelled, had you rehab planned to move into the space. chosen to do so and had been more The gay District 8 supervisor has informed on this issue and able to expressed support for Sharper Fuspeak about the positive benefits to
the community,” she said. “... Unfortunately it is now what it is. We will all have to now live this through.” Miller’s email part of an exchange between her and Wiener, who’d written to her January 24 that “we have a real problem here. ... [P]eople are particularly upset that they are just learning about this with a week to go before your move-in date. That’s just not how things should happen.” The Bay Area Reporter obtained the emails after requesting them from Wiener’s office. Wiener has said his office was first approached about the idea of Sharper Future leasing the space in October, when nothing had been decided, and he’s told people that Maitri had only been “considering” leasing to the rehab when he was initially approached.
But in an October 22 email, gay Maitri Executive Director Michael Smithwick told Wiener he wanted “to introduce” him “to the owner of the business that Maitri has selected as the new tenant of our vacant ground floor commercial space. ... We’re hoping to sign a lease 11/1, but realize the community outreach that will need to take place subsequent to that.” Smithwick’s email doesn’t mention the new tenant’s name. According to Wiener’s office, a meeting that included Power, Smithwick, and Sharper Future representatives took place November 6. At that meeting, the two organizations “indicated that they could not yet make a final decision whether to move forward,” and they “indicated that no lease ... had been signed.”t
Early in the evening, from 5 to 7 p.m., two artists, Brian Bourassa, a Marty’s Place resident, and E. Lewis Basher, will have a co-opening at Hospitality House’s community arts program, 1009 Market Street in San Francisco. Afterward, beginning at 7, the party moves to Marty’s Place, 1165 Treat Street (between 24th and 25th streets). There will be various libations and food served during the evening. The reception is being sponsored by the Shanti Project and by the residents of Marty’s Place.
sociation, San Francisco’s LGBT chamber of commerce, will hold its first East Bay Make Contact mixer of the year Thursday, February 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Port Workspaces, 101 Broadway in Oakland’s historic Jack London Square. The event will feature refreshments, including southern-style barbecue from Everett and Jones. The cost is free for GGBA members or $25 for non-members. For more information, visit http://www.ggba.com.
GGBA hosts East Bay mixer
Building Opportunities for SelfSufficiency, or BOSS, in collabora-
tion with students from Albany High School, will hold a free, one-day resource fair for the homeless Friday, February 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mosswood Park Recreation Center, 3612 Webster Street, in Oakland. The Project Homeless Connect event, part of a national initiative, will offer homeless and low-income residents multiple on-site services, including food, clothing, referrals, and access to care. The one-stop-shop will include one-time housing vouchers (for eligible homeless applicants), job resources, haircuts, feet cleaning, legal assistance, and more. See page 14 >>
primarily the monolingual Asian population throughout the city. “These grant awards will help these organizations continue their inspiring work to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities among our patients and our neighbors in San Francisco,” Barry Lawlor, senior director of community health services and clinics for St. Mary’s, said in a statement.
Artist recpetions in SF
Two receptions on Friday, February 12 will be held for artists at Hospitality House’s community arts program, and Marty’s Place, a home for people living with AIDS.
The Golden Gate Business As-
Homeless resource fair in Oakland
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14 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
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Business Briefs
From page 7
the revenues from the Super Bowl to help address this problem.”
Beck’s to change colors
Beck’s recently completed a yearslong remodeling project of its 58 rooms to be more modern. In the meantime, Beck scrapped her plan to triple the motel’s lobby space by demolishing the existing sundeck after city planners advised her the approval process would likely be lengthy. Instead she decided to maintain the historic facade of the motel, spruce up the exterior walkways, and repaint the building in a new
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Pissoir
From page 10
know how many complaints had been made, but there have been “a good number.” He declined to share the complaints, citing people’s privacy. Joey Kahn, a spokesman for the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, said in an emailed response to questions that his agency has received five “form emails” com-
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Trans attack
From page 6
who represented Kemp at the preliminary hearing, told Superior Court Judge Brendan Conroy, “I’ve advised Mr. Kemp that I do not agree with this plea.” Attorney Murray Zisholz, who represented Westover at the preliminary hearing, said at the time it had been up to her whether to plead to the battery charge, but he agreed with her decision.
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News Briefs
From page 13
In addition to BOSS, service providers will include Berkeley Acupuncture and Detox Clinic, Swords to Plowshares, Suitcase Clinic, Bay Area Legal Aid, Project Vision, California Prostitutes Education Project (CALPEP), the city of Oakland, and others. Mosswood Park is located across the street from Kaiser Hospital and near the corner of Broadway and MacArthur Boulevard. It is accessible from the MacArthur BART station or along AC Transit lines 51A and 57. Volunteers are still needed. To help out, contact Tes Ikharo at (510) 649-1930, ext. 1011 or tikharo@selfsufficiency.org. For those who would like to make a monetary donation, a Gofundme page has been created at https:// www.gofundme.com/5axx9qbu.
OurTownSF to hold fundraiser
The website http://www.ourtownSF.org, a community service that promotes over 275 San Francisco LGBT nonprofit service providers, arts, and athletic groups to connect with clients, donors, and volunteers, will hold a fundraiser Saturday, February 20 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the lesbian-owned Equator Coffee, 986 Market Street.
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Sex offender site
From page 13
ture for a comment on the number of high-risk clients it would be treating at 100 Church Street. Miller said she was “unavailable” and referred calls to BergDavis Public Affairs, which said in an email that “due to privacy laws, Sharper Future is unable to provide details on clients.” Roybal, a property manager for Greentree Property Management in San Francisco, also predicted that Sharper Future’s stated intention of subleasing the 4,000 square feet in their space that it is not using will be “impossible” to fulfill. If Maitri had been unable to find a tenant for that space, “how will Sharper Future be
color scheme by early May. “When we are done there will be the same sundeck for hotel guests,” said Beck. “The tarping there now is because of the rain and some exposed roof. It is why we look like a sailboat sometimes.” While the final palette is not yet set, it will likely see the yellow paint swapped out for grey with new accent colors. “We opted to stay true to the roots of the building,” Beck said, adding that the color change will result in “something clean and modern but still have a little fun to it.”
food sales to local nonprofit Gay Asian Pacific Alliance Foundation. Over the past four years, the carnival-themed eatery has donated more than $30,000 to community organizations. Each month it selects a different nonprofit as the Monday beneficiary. Straw is located at 203 Octavia Boulevard, a few blocks from the San Francisco LGBT Community Center. It is open Mondays from 5 to 10 p.m. To see its menu, and the list of agencies it has selected for the 2016 Nonprofit Monday Program, visit http://www.strawsf.com.t
Honor Roll
Every Monday through the end of February, Hayes Valley restaurant Straw will donate 10 percent of all
Got a tip on LGBT business news? Call Matthew S. Bajko at (415) 829-8836 or e-mail m.bajko@ ebar.com.
plaining about the pissoir, which cost about $15,000. The one email he shared indicated the writer isn’t a San Francisco resident. “The pissoir was a communitydriven idea to help curb public urination and urination on the property of neighbors,” Kahn said. Dacus said that if city officials “see that they’ve made a mistake,” PJI “would expect them to act responsibly on behalf of the taxpay-
ers of San Francisco” and avoid a lawsuit. Matt Dorsey, a spokesman for the city attorney’s office, said his agency has received PJI’s letter, “and we intend to give their legal theories all the consideration they deserve.” The city has “no plans” to remove the pissoir, Dorsey said. The city attorney’s office hasn’t received any complaints from residents about the urinal, he said.t
Approached before court Monday, Westover said the B.A.R. had “twisted” her story, and she declined to comment on the case. Gould told the paper that he wasn’t claiming “any lack of proper representation” by Maloof. Zisholz didn’t immediately respond to an email asking him about the claim that there had been a failure to obtain and review the video in the case, and that the consequences of Westover’s admission hadn’t been fully explained to her.
Kemp and Westover’s next court date is March 1 to consider motions to withdraw the pleas or proceed with the sentencing. Hulsey was also the victim in another alleged hate crime. In that case, which stems from a 2015 incident that started on a Muni bus, Brodes Wayne Joynes, 56, allegedly tried to fatally stab her and called her and her then-partner “faggots.” Joynes has been held to answer on charges in that case. His next court date is March 18.t
The website is a program of the Richmond Ermet Aid Foundation, said Paul Margolis, director. At the event, a $10 donation in advance (use discount code 50 on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ ourtown-at-the-equator-tickets21052106417?aff=es2) or $20 at the door entitles attendees to a free cocktail and hors d’oeuvres and happy hour prices on subsequent orders. There will be entertainment and a chance to win auction items donated by Worn Out West 2nd Generation, SoulCycle, Phoenix Hotel, and Emperor Norton’s Fantastic SF Time Machine. For more information, visit the Facebook event page at h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / events/1507221719581215/.
Legal Notices>>
Rainbow World Fund to hold open house
Rainbow World Fund, an all-volunteer, LGBT-based humanitarian aid organization headquartered in San Francisco, will hold an open house to thank supporters Sunday, February 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. at its offices, 4111 18th Street #5 (above Harvey’s bar in the Castro). People are free to bring a friend; RSVP is requested so RWF folks know how many to expect. Food and beverages will be provided. To RSVP, call (415) 431-1485 or visit the Facebook event page at https://www.facebook. com/events/955901524487095.t able to?” he asked. When asked that question by the B.A.R., Miller said, “We have a good commercial realtor who will help us find someone.” But Roybal predicts both sides will agree to void the lease when “it becomes clear how much uncertainty there is” about the company receiving city and state approval to move in. “This appears to be a situation that is a mix of people who didn’t know what they were doing, and at the same time, pulling the wool over our eyes,” he said. The Board of Appeals meeting takes place Wednesday, February 17 at 5 p.m. in City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 416.t
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036883200
Legal Notices>> FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036883600
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PARCEL EXPRESS, 1163 GENEVA AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed JEFFREY LI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/13/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/13/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036887200
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: UNION SQUARE DENTAL PRACTICE, 450 SUTTER #1326, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed NAZANIN HAKIM D.D.S/MAHSA HAKIM D.D.S, INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/15/16.
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC-16-551807
In the matter of the application of: PETER SHIH, 463 NEVADA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner PETER SHIH, is requesting that the name PETER SHIH, be changed to PETER HUNTER PAINE. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Dept. 514, Room 514 on the 10th of MARCH 2016 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC-15-551760
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036881900
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DR. COWAN’S GARDEN, 661 CHENERY ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94131. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed VEGETABLE PRODUCTS FROM DR. COWAN’S GARDEN, INC (CA). 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 01/13/16.
In the matter of the application of: BRANDON ERICKSON, 1570 QUESADA AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124, , for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner BRANDON CHRISTOPHER ERICKSON, is requesting that the name BRANDON CHRISTOPHER ERICKSON, be changed to AVERY BRAVERY ERICKSON. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Dept. 514, Room 514 on the 25th of February 2016 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036885000
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036897300
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NANKING ROAD BISTRO, 1360 9TH AVE #100, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by a corporation and is signed BJJ GROUP INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/14/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KRISPY KRUNCHY CHICKEN, 4517 3RD ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed MUSLEH ALOUDI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/21/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036875300
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036896300
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ROCKET FIZZ SODA POP AND CANDY STORE, 245 JEFFERSON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a limited liability company and is signed ROCKET FIZZ SODA POP AND CANDY STORE, 245 JEFFERSON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/11/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/11/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036856000
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: AMPERSAND VIDEO, 221 DOLORES ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed TAYLOR SOPPE. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/10/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/13/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: REGINALD LYN WISE, 2965 HARRISON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed REGINALD LYN WISE. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/24/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/29/15.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036878600
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036906100
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SJC TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING, 933 CASTRO ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SCOTT CILIBERTI. 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 01/12/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NIDO AGUILA SAN FRANCISCO, 1189 GENEVA AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SULMA GARCIA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/27/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036878900
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036894800
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GOLDEN HEALER HONEY ALLA’S APIARY, 68 MEADOWBROOK DR, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ALLA GRANKINA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/21/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/21/16.
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036872400
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PETE’S PLUMBING SERVICE, 1238D NORTHPOINT DR, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94130. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed CHARLES PAUL SKINNER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/08/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/08/16.
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036885400
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BLAZING SADDLES BIKE RENTAL, 721 BEACH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER AND CYCLE RENTAL INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/14/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/14/16.
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036886200
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HUANGSHAOXIANG WORKSHOP, 202 LAKE MERCED HILLS N., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed KEQIAN BI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/12/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/12/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BAKER DESIGNS, 850 6TH AVE #A, OAKLAND, CA 94606. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ALYSSA BAKER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/18/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/20/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BLAZING SADDLES BIKE RENTAL AND TOURS, 721 BEACH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER AND CYCLE RENTAL (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/14/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/14/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036891700
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036856600
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036885500
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LOPEZ HEATING HANDYMAN, 585 GATES ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed MOISES LOPEZ. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/19/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: OLIVE CATERING, 1668 BUSH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed NOUREDINE HADDADENE. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/29/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/29/15.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036888500
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036896400
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BLAZING SADDLES BIKE RENTAL AND TOURS, 721 BEACH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER AND CYCLE RENTAL INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/14/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/14/16.
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036875500
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LOU’S ROADSIDE SERVICES, 2186 QUESADA AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed LEWIS HEREDIA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/15/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/15/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KTIM LOVE, 164 KERWIN AVE, OAKLAND, CA 94603. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed CHAO QIANG LIN. 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 01/21/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SURISAN, 505 BEACH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed JKC FINE DINING INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/11/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036889300
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036891400
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036903200
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: JIKA RAMEN & GOLD CURRY SUSHI HOUSE, 3925 IRVING ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed CIMEI LUO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/15/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/15/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LUCID SGR, 260 BUCKINGHAM WAY #303, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SEBASTIAN GUSTAVO REYES. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/05/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/19/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: COMPOSITION DESIGN, 1900 EDDY ST #18, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SCOTT MICHAEL UPPER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/25/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/26/16.
JAN 21, 28, FEB 04, 11, 2016
JAN 28, FEB 04, 11, 18, 2016
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016
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Legal Notices>> ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC-16-551846
In the matter of the application of: MARLEEN SCHRODER HERSCHEND, 37 CLIPPER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner MARLEEN SCHRODER HERSCHEND, is requesting that the name MARLEEN SCHRODER HERSCHEND aka MARLEEN ROSE SCHRODER aka MARLEEN SCHRODER, be changed to MARLEEN ROSE SCHRODER. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Dept. 514 on the 7th of April 2016 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036868400
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BAYSIDE BARK, 2041 26TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed HANNAH ST MARTIN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/06/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036909100
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PICSTAR, 50 GOLDEN GATE AVE #524, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed CAREY LEO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/29/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036903900
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NORTH BEACH PIZZA, 4787 MISSION ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed PROKOPOS LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/26/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/26/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036899600
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: VERVE WELLNESS STUDIO, 1231 CORTLAND AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed KINSELLA WELLNESS CHIROPRACTIC INC, (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 07/26/10. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/22/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036907400
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BIKE AND ROLL BIKE RENTALS AND TOURS, 2800 LEAVENWORTH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER & CYCLE RENTAL (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/26/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036907500
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BIKE AND ROLL BIKE RENTALS AND TOURS, PIER 43.5, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER & CYCLE RENTALS (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/26/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036907700
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036915100
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CABLE CAR CAKES AND CHOCOLATES, 39 TAYLOR ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed CABLE CAR CAKES AND CHOCOLATES, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/01/16.
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FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036904500
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FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-030723200
The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: SCARLETT’S JANITORIAL SERVICES, 1515 BRODERICK ST #341, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business was conducted by an individual and signed by SCARLETT TOLEDO. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/13/07.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-034178300
The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: GOLDEN BAY RELOCATION, 1160 MISSION ST #1914, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business was conducted by an individual and signed by FERNANDO BEGLIOMINI. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/05/12.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-036749600
The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: JOHANNA’S HOUSE CLEANING, 162 EDINBURGH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business was conducted by a general partnership and signed by HAROLD MARTINEZ & ADDONIS MARTINEZ. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/28/15.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036928400
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KICKLINE PRODUCTIONS, 2658 17TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed JENNIFER T. ROST. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/08/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/08/16.
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036927900
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: M. BENTON & CO., 31 THERESA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ELISAVETTA ILYIN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/08/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/08/16.
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036902600
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SF KEBAB, 550 16TH ST #1660, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed TEKIN FOOD & BEVERAGE INC (CA). 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 01/25/16.
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036915200
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036907800
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036912600
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The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GOLDEN BAY MOVERS; GOLDEN BAY MOVING COMPANY, 1160 MISSION ST #1914, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed GOLDEN BAY RELOCATION LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/26/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MEE, 1737 POST ST #330, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed PERFECT LADY COSMETIC & FASHION (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/01/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036907900
Classifieds The
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BIKE AND ROLL BIKE RENTALS AND TOURS, 520 BEACH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER AND CYCLE RENTAL (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/26/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BIKE AND ROLL BIKE RENTALS AND TOURS, 5 EMBARCADERO CTR, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER & CYCLE RENTALS (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/26/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 15
Legal Notices>> NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINSTER ESTATE OF ANDREW EMILE VUCKOVICH IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO: FILE PES-16-299469
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Andrew Emile Vuckovich aka Andrew Vuckovich. A Petition for Probate has been filed by Larry Milutin Vuckovich in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. The Petition for Probate requests that Larry Milutin Vuckovich be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: February 24, 2016, 9:00 am, Rm. 204, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined by section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: Larry Milutin Vuckovich, 913 Champagne South, Calistoga, CA, 94515; Ph. (707) 942-9007.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036890300
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PANERA BREAD, 2675 GEARY BLVD, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed PAN NORCAL LLC, (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/07/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/19/16.
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036930000
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 450-452 34TH AVE HOA, 450 34TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94121. This business is conducted by an unincorporated association other than a partnership, and is signed JEFFREY MICHAEL RAYMOND, CHARLES DAMIAN SHIELDS & HEATHER WARM. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/29/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/29/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PARKSIDE MAILBOXES, 945 TARAVAL ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed PARKSIDE MAILBOXES LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/09/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/09/16.
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036919900
FEB 11, 18, 25, MAR 03, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036930100
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BIKE AND ROLL BIKE RENTALS AND TOURS, 899 COLUMBUS AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER & CYCLE RENTALS (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/26/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/27/16.
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: JACKRABBIT, 302 BRODERICK ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed BOUNTIFUL FOODS LLC (CA). 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 02/03/16.
FEBRUARY 04, 11, 18, 25, 2016
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Vol. 46 • No. 6 • February 11-17, 2016
www.ebar.com/arts
Painter prophet of Modernism by Sura Wood
W
hile growing up, I spent hours in the company of Pierre Bonnard, whose paintings were part of the collections at the Phillips and National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. I’d forego my homework, opting to be transported to the South of France to bask in the See page 26 >>
Pierre Bonnard, “Man and Woman” (1900). Oil on canvas. Musée d’Orsay.
Indie as they T wanna be Scene from director Brandon Gibbons’ Preoccupied.
Courtesy SF IndieFest
by David Lamble
he 18th SF Independent Film Festival (SF IndieFest) is certainly not a supercharged, glamorpuss event, and its actors-writersdirectors-editors-cinematographers are decidedly unsung, even in their own bedrooms. The celebrity sightings are mostly limited to IndieFest Director of Programming Jennifer “Junkyard” Morris, curator of music docs Chris Metzler, and SF IndieFest founder-director-grand poobah Jeff Ross. There are See page 20 >>
Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York/ADAGP, Paris
Guests in the symphony hall by Philip Campbell
T
he carousel of guest conductors continues spinning in Davies Symphony Hall as a trio of guest artists finished visits with the San Francisco Symphony last week. The first in that lineup actually appeared at the end of January leading a touring ensemble, London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, but violinist-conductor Pinchas Zukerman returns this Thursday and again on Sunday, Valentine’s Day, to direct the SFS in performances of Mozart and Edward Elgar. See page 19 >> Violinist-conductor Pinchas Zukerman returns to Davies Hall tonight (Thurs., Feb. 11) and Sunday. Paul Labelle
{ SECOND OF THREE SECTIONS }
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<< Out There
18 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
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e’re so glad the Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Bowl is over. Fortunately, there was plenty to do on the Arts & Culture front these past few weeks without having to join the City Family in Bending Over for giant corporations of Macho Ballers. In the time it’s taken for SF to give the NFL a happy ending, Out There has: thrilled to San Francisco Ballet’s world premiere of choreographer Liam Scarlett’s Fearful Symmetries set to a John Adams piece, with the composer himself seated directly across the aisle from us; attended a concert of dynamic young organ virtuoso Cameron Carpenter on his state-of-the-art International Touring Organ at SFJazz Center; and cheered on the unveiling of the new Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archive [BAMPFA] in its beautiful new arts complex. All this, and no fumbling after sportsballers or their pigskins! As is our wont, OT screened the commercially released Oscar-nominated short films in anticipation of the 88th Academy Awards ceremony coming up on Sun., Feb. 28. Our brief impressions of the live action and animated short film nominees follow, and we wish we could be more laudatory. With one exception, the nominees for live action shorts are unrelievedly grim and depressing. In Ave Maria (directors Basil Khalil, Eric Dupont), a car of Israeli settlers breaks down outside a Christian convent in the occupied West Bank. Religious proscriptions clash; it’s all intended to be humorous and farcical, but given Middle Eastern reality, it’s just completely awful, in Arabic, English and Hebrew. Day One (director Henry Hughes) follows an AfghanAmerican woman working as an interpreter with the U.S. military in Afghanistan. Accompanying troops pursuing a bombmaker, she assists a pregnant woman in a grisly childbirth performed under duress. Truly harrowing, and almost unwatchable. Shok (director Jamie Donoughue) is set in 1998 Kosovo, where two young Kosovar Albanian boys become collateral damage, one figuratively and one literally, as fascist Serbian aggression leads to the ethnic cleansing of their village. A look back at some hellish recent history, it’s not at all pretty. In Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut) (director Patrick Vollrath), a divorced, deranged father kidnaps his innocent eightyear-old daughter, confiscates her phone, and tries to abscond with her abroad. Again: not really “feelgood” story material. At long last there’s Stutterer (directors Benjamin Cleary, Serena Armitage). In this, the only lighthearted short of the bunch, a lonely typographer tries to overcome a
ShortsTV
Scene from directors Benjamin Cleary and Serena Armitage’s Stutterer.
speech impediment in order to meet an online virtual girlfriend in the flesh. The only live-action short that didn’t make us want to slit our wrists, this is OT’s choice for taking home the Oscar. Now some brief impressions of the animated short film nominees, starting with Bear Story (directors Gabriel Osorio, Pato Escala). A sad old bear takes a mechanical diorama out to the street corner. His invention tells the story of a circus bear’s hopes to escape and return to his family, from whom he was kidnapped. It’s a parable of the plight of “the Disappeared” from junta-era Chile. In Sanjay’s Super Team (directors Sanjay Patel, Nicole Grindle), young Indian-American Sanjay is obsessed with superhero action figures. He bonds with his devout Hindu father by finding the superhero vibe in some awesome Hindu demigods. Then there’s Prologue (directors Richard Williams, Imogen Sutton), in which Spartan and Athenian warriors battle to the death in an intense struggle witnessed by a little girl. In its way, this is a powerful rebuttal to the fantasy heroworship of Sanjay, since the virile warriors are mortally wounded in horrific ways. The public screening we attended went to great lengths to warn that this short was not intended for children, but perhaps the young are the perfect audience for this anti-war message. We Can’t Live Without Cosmos (director Konstantin Bronzit): Two best friends since childhood realize their dreams of becoming
cosmonauts, together enduring the rigors of training. To OT, this one has definite gay overtones: the men are hunky, undergo muscular challenges, and remain tenderly intimate. At last, the true winner, World of Tomorrow (director Don Hertzfeldt). The little girl Emily is taken on a fantastic time voyage by her future clone, who doesn’t spare her the cosmic lowdown. This is OT’s choice for best in the category, an amusing and imaginative take on our sad state of humanity, trapped in the lures of lucre and seductive technology.
Thai treasure
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts announced they will present the San Francisco theatrical premiere of Cemetery of Splendor, the new film by great Thai filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul (Tropical Malady, Uncle Boonmee, winner of the 2010 Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival), for four days, Thurs.Sun., March 17-20. Weerasethakul was an artist-in-residence at YBCA in 2004, and is well-known to South Asian and international cineastes for his poetic works. He has said in the press that this will be his final feature film based in Thailand due to the current political situation there. He’s fought against censorship of his earlier films by the Thai government, and has been a proud advocate for gay rights. In his new film, a group of soldiers are stricken with a mysterious sleeping sickness. Some believe that as they sleep, they are waging war on behalf of long-dead, nameless kings. It may have to do with an ancient site, it may have to do with monarchic culture, it may have to do with the military. Just sayin’. Ticket and showtimes: YBCA, 701 Mission St., SF, (415) 978-2787, ybca.org.t
ShortsTV
Scene from director Konstantin Bronzit’s We Can’t Live Without Cosmos.
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Theatre>>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 19
Moody relationships & little Eyolf, too by Richard Dodds
T
he Aurora Theatre is again playing around with Ibsen, a playwright not noted for playfulness. Last year, it presented The Monster-Builder, Amy Freed’s humorously contemporary mashup of horror genres and Ibsen’s The Master Builder. Now it’s an Ibsen play without the renown of his major titles that has been pulled into the present for a spotty makeover. Little Eyolf has become Little Erik in writer-director Mark Jackson’s adaptation having its world premiere at Aurora. The Ibsen original is not an easy play to get your head around, shooting off in such differing plotlines with their abutting combustibities, plus a mystical figure who seems connected to a different play. Little Eyolf does have its cadre of fans, which has included even the likes of George Bernard Shaw, and a recent London production directed by Richard Eyre (former head of the National Theatre) was widely applauded for its intense if grim exploration into what constitutes happiness. The contemporary setting of the new play follows the basic schematic of the original, and there are moments when Ibsen’s ideas gain new resonance, but talk of cellphone reception, Skype, Google, and other
<<
SF Symphony
From page 17
The RPO performance we attended added Beethoven to a bill that also featured Mozart and Elgar. The British orchestra filled the DSH stage with divided strings and a bold horn section to make a strong impression with the thoroughly English Enigma Variations, Beethoven’s Overture to Egmont, and Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5, Turkish. It was pleasing to note the young median age and equality of male and female RPO players. The sound they produce is thrilling at full-throttle, and was in congenial synch with Zukerman – at least when he was focusing solely on them. They fared less well supporting the famed violinist in the Concerto. Zukerman has always possessed a strong and sweet tone, and his technical brilliance remains undimmed, but he wasn’t able to keep the musicians fully alert as he coursed through the charming Mozart score. The real treat was hearing a sensitive interpretation of Enigma, especially
Larry Williamson
Conductor Edwin Outwater offered the program European Exoticism.
Marco Borggreve
Masaaki Suzuki made his SFS conducting debut last week.
techie terms never rings At least until Erik’s quite right. Although the accident, she was happy locale is a stylish new getenough using her husaway home for a wealthy band as a sex object, while San Francisco couple, Freddie lived happily off the moody aura is a little his wife’s money while bit punctured each time contemplating writing modern technology is refa great tome on human erenced. How Little Erik responsibility. But some departs from Little Eyolf at sort of revelation struck the play’s end will not be Freddie during a trip revealed here, so let us just aboard, and he announces say it is a deus ex machina upon his return that deeds of laughable proportions. rather than words are his Jackson’s direction of new calling. That includes his play often uses stylized being even more attentive staging, startling musito Erik, and it’s not the cal stings, and ominous only relationship making sounds that can amp up his wife jealous; Freddie the seeming import of is disturbingly close to scenes that the dialogue his half-sister. Even when David Allen alone would not suggest. Erik drowns while followMarilee Talkington, right, plays a steely San Francisco He has brought in humor ing a mysterious woman businesswoman whose dissatisfactions include an uneasy for a present-day audience, known as the Rat Wife, relationship with her sister-in-law (Mariah Castle), in the and parts of the storyline Joie is still not getting the Ibsen-inspired Little Erik at Aurora Theatre. that Jackson has carried sexual attention that once over from Ibsen can still drove the marriage. take an audience aback, so Throw into the mix happened when his parents had left you can only imagine the impact they a dogged suitor pursuing Freddie’s him alone in one of their bouts of had in 1894. half-sister, and there are several very passionate lovemaking. His mother The title character in Little Erik different dramas being played out, inwishes the boy had never been born, is a major presence though he has tersecting at points, but somehow not while his father now devotes his atonly brief moments on the stage. pulling together. There are more detentions to the boy rather than his He’s a high-spirited lad of about 8 finitive resolutions in the Ibsen origiwife. “He was a mistake,” says Joie, a who has big dreams despite his relinal, but Jackson chooses to end his successful businesswoman who had ance on crutches from an injury that play with more flash than substance. no interest in being a mother.
There is one outstanding performance amid an able cast, and it fortunately happens to be in the best role. Marilee Talkington is fearsome as Joie, a stylish woman who demands deference, the kind of person who calls 911 for repair work on her home. Joe Estlack and Mariah Castle are fine in the less flashy roles of conflicted half-siblings, and Greg Ayers provides comic relief as the nerdy architect who designed the sylvan retreat (simply but stylishly rendered in Nina Ball’s set design). Kudos to young Jack Wittmayer, who plays Erik navigating steps and the stage on crutches and with a severely twisted leg that is only revealed as a convincing physical pretense at the curtain call. Wilma Bonet potently creates an ominous, mystical aura in the small but critical role of the wizened Rat Wife. Little Erik uneasily straddles Ibsen’s 19th-century world and the contemporary landscape that Jackson has pulled it into. The story would probably work better from a distance, a curiosity from a master playwright of long ago rather than an effort to remodel it into a contemporary fable.t
the ravishing Nimrod variation. The SFS followed later in the week with subscription concerts conducted by Edwin Outwater featuring pianist Stephen Hough in a program called European Exoticism. Outwater is a familiar favorite at DSH. Currently Music Director of Ontario’s Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and Director of Summer Concerts at the SFS, he has also served as Resident Conductor and as Music Director of the SFS Youth Orchestra. Outwater’s bill was refreshing, with offbeat selections that offered plenty of excitement and lots of chances for bravura playing. Hough’s delivery of the SaintSaëns Piano Concerto No. 5, Egyptian, squashed debate about the relative artistic worth of the piece and justified his obvious affection. The French composer was a master of lean orchestration, and his melodic gift was given lilting expression by the orchestra. Hough has proven his advocacy on disc (delightful listening), and his live demonstration was dazzling. He doesn’t need a big or overly familiar showpiece to excite an audience. Even his encore on the night we attended, an obscure but lovely morsel by Frederic Mompou, was perfect for the occasion. Outwater framed Hough’s appearance with Weber’s Overture to Oberon, and on the second half featured the first SFS performances of Ferruccio Busoni’s Music from Turandot Suite and Paul Hindemith’s Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Weber. The tuneful and magically evocative Busoni turned out to be much more than a mere curiosity, and the happy crowd responded with enthusiasm. The energetic conductor sealed the deal with his blazing joy-ride through the exhilarating Hindemith piece. Last week, Masaaki Suzuki, founder of the Bach Collegium Japan in 1990, made his SFS conducting debut with a program touted as a grand tour of Europe, guided by composers Haydn, Mozart, Stravinsky and Mendelssohn. The highlight of the night was SFS Principal Bassoon (since 1977) Stephen Paulson’s richly satisfying rendition of Mozart’s Concerto in B-flat major, K. 191. Paulson’s long and illustrious tenure with the orchestra makes him instantly recognizable to regulars, and his entrance received a warm and appreciative ovation. The dexterity of his playing brought
Violin Concerto with soloist Nikolaj Znaider mid-month. Herbert Blomstedt, Conductor Laureate of the SFS and Music Director from 1985 to 1995, is coming back later to present a signature work, Bruckner’s Symphony No. 3. Fabulous soloist Maria João Pires will play the Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 3. In early March, Blomstedt presents an all-Mozart bill that features SFS Concertmaster Alexander Barantschik in the Violin Concerto No. 1.t
everyone to their feet at the end. His performance brightened Suzuki’s debut, and another longtime SFS member, Peter Wyrick, Associate Principal Cello since 1999, helped as well, enlivening Haydn’s Symphony No. 95 with his fine solo work. Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, Italian, is fairly irresistible, and the conductor paced it well enough, even if the orchestral response was a little muddy. It was an efficient but uninspiring interpretation. Suzuki was at his best in the more
translucent Stravinsky Concerto in D major for String Orchestra. Brief and bracing, the work puts in a nutshell the composer’s late neoclassical style. With his strong background in the sparer instrumentation of Bach, it came as no surprise that Suzuki made a good case for the elegant score. After Pinchas Zukerman’s return to the podium this week, more guest conductors are queuing up for the revolving door at Davies. Stéphane Denève brings excerpts from Prokofiev’s Cinderella and Nielsen’s
Little Erik will run at Aurora Playhouse through Feb. 28. Tickets are $32-$50. Call (510) 843-4822 or go to auroratheatre.org.
PAULA WEST
JULIE & CAROL
TOM REARDON
February 11 - March 6
March 9
March 18 - 19
For tickets:www.feinsteinsSF.com Feinstein’s | Hotel Nikko San Francisco 222 Mason Street 855-MF-NIKKO | 855-355-2738
<< Film
20 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
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Tony nominee (Side Show) ACT’s A Little Night Music
Courtesy SF IndieFest
Scene from director G.J. Echternkamp’s Frank and Cindy.
Emily Skinner 4/17 - 5 PM Direct from London! Courtesy SF IndieFest
John Hawkes in a scene from director Dennis Hauk’s Too Late.
<< Next: ANNALEIGH ASHFORD, ANN & LIZ CALLAWAY
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SF Indiefest
From page 17
five venues (518 Gallery, Alamo Drafthouse, Brava Theatre, Roxie Theater and the new Vortex Room, 3189 Mission St.), innumerable parties, tickets, passes and vouchers, as well as tributes to Robin Williams, films documenting Texas childporn rings, and a Finnish film called Bunny the Killer Thing. Below, find a report of the eight films I screened. Preoccupied Gotham-based filmmaker Brandon Gibbons has fun at the expense of the white boys of Wall Street. This spoof of a mythical white-boy blowback to the 2011 Occupy Wall Street movement features authentic Wall Street footage, taunts that fall just short of mayhem, a couple of cute white boys in suits, and even shooting hoops and enough comedy at the expense of the 99% to show that we may lose our homes but never our sense of humor or the sense of life’s ultimate meaninglessness. (Roxie, 2/12, 18, 7 p.m.) Dead Hands Dig Deep I never thought I’d hesitate to recommend a film that offers heaping mounds of sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll, but that’s until I caught 20 minutes of Aussie director Jai Love’s intimate portrait of Edwin Borsheim. Borsheim is the self-appointed leader of the shock metal band Kettle Cadaver. The most polite term for Borsheim is “S/M exhibitionist provocateur,” but not in a good way. The dude is into a form of self-mutilation and personal bloodletting that I find disgusting and oddly tedious. There are chats with Borsheim’s “bandmates” who appear a tad embarrassed to be party to this “crime against celluloid.” IndieFest calls its single Roxie screening a “music spotlight.” You’ve been warned. (Roxie, 2/21, 7 p.m.) Hustlers Convention Mike Todd provides an entertaining historical dig through the back pages of the modern rap/hip-hop movement. Hustler’s Convention refers to an almost-forgotten 1973 album by a now-elderly musician/wordsmith, Jalal Nuriddin, aka “Lightnin’ Rod.” Featuring iluminating chats with African American music heavies George Clinton, Ice-T and Chuck D, the film beautifully illustrates the old adage that you may not know that the revolution has occurred, even with an engraved invitation. This one truly is a music spotlight. (Roxie, 2/19, 7 p.m.) Frank and Cindy The openingnight film is a witty fictional
treatment of director G.J. Echternkamp’ true-life family meltdown when his mom (played here by Rene Russo) agrees to let her new hubby, G.J.’s stepdad (a remarkable Oliver Platt), squander his college fund to fund dad’s dream of a basement studio. This well-acted comedy-drama was presented in radio version on This American Life. (Brava Theater opening, 2/11, 7:30 p.m., followed by DJ Shindog’s evening of 1980s/90s “one-hit wonders” at New Wave City) Too Late The closing-night film is Dennis Hauk’s tribute to a 70s brand of druggie noir. Indie vet John Hawkes is a private investigator in the fashion pioneered by a young Gene Hackman around the time of the Hackman/Arthur Penn collaboration Night Moves. With a nifty supporting turn from Tarrantino regular Robert Forster, giving it just a whiff of Tarrantino’s underappreciated Jackie Brown, this one was shot in five 22-minute takes in the Technoscope 35 mm format. (Roxie, 2/25, 9:15 p.m.) Paradise Club Sadly, San Francisco filmmaker Carolyn Cavallero’s feature debut is spoiled by an overwhelming accumulation of beginner’s mistakes. It’s a failed stab at a John Cassavetes-style hipster romp like his 1976 Ben Gazzara vehicle The Killing of a Chinese Bookie. Cavallero’s good intentions can’t overcome such portentous rants as this one given by her young female exotic dancer: “I wanted to be one of the wild ones. The ones who broke free.” The film is technically accomplished; the problems lie with the script. (Roxie, 2/13, 18, 9:15 p.m.) And the Mudship Sails Away (Japan, 2013) Weird English title shouldn’t scare you away from Hirobumi Watanabe’s homage to early Jim Jarmusch, such as the 1984 threelost-souls black comedy Stranger than Paradise. A bitter unemployed man approaching 40 tries the patience of friends and family. The director’s real-life 96-year-old grandmother lightens the proceedings with her deadpan scene-stealing. (Roxie, 2/14, 4:30 p.m.; 2/23, 9:15 p.m.) The Winds That Scatter Christopher Jason Bell provides an achingly pertinent and timely look at a middle-aged Syrian immigrant’s struggles to survive the double whammy of his outsider status and an American landscape grown hostile to the Muslim “other.” (Roxie, 2/13, 4:30 p.m.; 2/16, 9:15 p.m.)t Info: sfindie.com.
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Film>>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 21
How Ingrid Bergman saw things by Tavo Amador
J
ean Renoir, for whom Ingrid Bergman (1915-82) gave one of her most lyrical performances in Elena et Les Hommes (1956), said she preferred a scandal to a lie. He was referring to her tumultuous affair, marriage, and divorce from director Roberto Rossellini, which produced an out-of-wedlock son in 1950, and, after they married, twin daughters in 1952. The resulting puritanical reaction in America kept Bergman, hitherto one of the most acclaimed and popular actresses in the world, off Hollywood screens for seven years. In the dazzling Ingrid Bergman: In Her Own Words, opening Friday at Landmark Theatres, the great Swedish actress discusses her career, her relationships, her life with unflinching candor. Nothing mattered as much as acting, which afforded an escape from her lonely childhood. Her German mother died when she was three. Siblings also died. Her adoring father, who owned a photography shop, chronicled her life in home movies and stills. He died when she was 12. She went to live with an aunt and uncle. Painfully shy, she created a world of imaginary friends. Daughter Isabella Rossellini, who resembles her mother and who has had a fine acting career, believes that Bergman’s obsession with Joan of Arc comes from that imaginary world. Like Joan of Arc’s voices telling her to be courageous, that great things awaited her, Bergman’s imaginary friends urged her to be brave and promised her acclaim. In 1933, she enrolled in Stockholm’s Royal Dramatic Theatre School, but left after a year. Swedish movies soon claimed her. Intermezzo (1936) and A Woman’s Face (1938) caught the eye of Hollywood’s David Selznick. He signed her to a five-year contract. She went to Hollywood, leaving husband Dr. Petter Lindstrom and daughter Pia behind. They joined her a few months later. Selznick showcased her in an English-language remake of Intermezzo (1939) opposite Leslie Howard, and her luminosity thrilled audiences and critics. Over the next 10 years, she starred in 13 Hollywood films, won her first Best Actress Oscar for gay George Cukor’s Gaslight (1944), and was a major box-office draw. She collected Broadway’s Tony for Maxwell Anderson’s Joan of Lorraine, and in 1948, Victor Fleming directed her in Joan of Arc. She had affairs with photographer Robert Capa, with Fleming, and with Gregory Peck, but she and Lindstrom remained together. Despite her success, she was bored. Impressed with Rossellini’s neo-realist Rome: Open City (1945), she wrote him, offering to make a movie for him. They fell in love while filming Stromboli (1951), and the resultant public outrage stunned her. She felt she should be judged for her acting, not her personal life. She moved to Italy and made four more films for Rossellini. He didn’t rely on scripts, preferring improvisation, often from nonprofessional actors. Although their films together are now highly regarded, they were commercial failures. She found working for him challenging, and it added to the stress of their marriage. Over his strenuous objections, she accepted an offer from producer Buddy Adler and director Anatole Litvak to star in 20th Century Fox’s Anastasia (1956), provided it was filmed in Europe. It opened to superb reviews and big business. She garnered her second Best Actress Oscar for her performance. She divorced Rossellini the next year and moved to Paris, marrying producer Lars Schmidt in 1958. The
Rialto Pictures Rialto Pictures
Film actress Ingrid Bergman: charm, charisma, candor, courage.
Rossellini children remained in Italy, although she visited often. In 1957, daughter Pia, who had spent time regularly with Bergman, joined her household. After Anastasia, Bergman made another 18 movies, almost all shot in Europe, winning a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for Murder on the Orient Express (1974), and culminating her big-screen career with a magnificent performance in Ingmar
Bergman’s Autumn Sonata (1978). She also appeared in a few prestigious TV productions, returned to the theatre in a revival of gay W. Somerset Maugham’s The Constant Wife, and would win a posthumous Emmy for 1982’s A Woman Called Golda. Although she wasn’t a regular presence in her children’s lives – she saw herself more as their friend rather than a typical mother – it’s
Film actress Ingrid Bergman: warmth, humor, intelligence, joie de vivre.
clear all four adored her. Isabella speaks of her incredible charm. Pia, who has worked as a TV reporter in New York, admits children aren’t always very interesting, but says she just wanted more of her mother. Roberto and Issolta have similar memories. As she was dying from breast cancer, he would sit at her bedside at night, when the pain was greatest, and listen to her recall her life. Bergman admits she wanted everything life offered, but above all,
she wanted to be a great actress. She loved her profession, but when Isabella was diagnosed with scoliosis, Bergman stopped working for two years to nurse her daughter, who recovered. Bergman’s charm, charisma, candor, courage, warmth, humor, intelligence, and joie de vivre outweighed her fierce ambition and narcissism. She loved the camera, and it loved her. Ingrid Bergman: In Her Own Words is a terrific complement to her superb screen legacy.t
A fully–staged opera that tells the real–life story of Emile Griffith, a world champion boxer who killed rival Benny Paret in their 1962 welterweight title match after Paret mocked him as a closeted homosexual. This opera is co–produced by Opera Parallèle and features baritone Arthur Woodley, bass–baritone Kenneth Kellogg, a 30–piece orchestra, chorus, dancers, and more.
TICKETS4SFJAZZ.org
<< Out&About
O&A
22 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
Hearts & arts by Jim Provenzano
Mon 15
Na’amen Tilahun reads at Black Love @ Strut
Thu 11 Black Virgins are Not for Hipsters @ The Marsh Echo Brown’s hit solo show about desire and doubt returns. $20-$100. Thu 8pm Sat 8:30pm. Thru March 5. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. themarsh.org
Club Inferno @ Hypnodrome The glam rock musical, based on Dante’s Inferno, with songs by Peter Fogel and book by Kelly Kittell, returns, with the original 2015 cast. $30-$35. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru March 5. 575 10th St. at Bryant. 377-4202. hypnodrome.org
Dogeaters @ Magic Theatre Bay Area premiere of Jessica Hagedorn’s 1998 play set in the early 1980s Philippines as the country unravels at the end of the Marcos regime. $25-$75. Wed-Sat 8pm. Tue 7pm. Sun 2:30pm. Thru Feb. 28. Fort Mason Center, 2 Marina Boulevard, Building D, 3rd Floor. 441-8822. www.magictheatre.com
Gem of the Ocean @ Marin Theatre Company August Wilson’s first in his ten-part African American historical play series, set in 1900s Pittsburgh, gets a local production. $20-$47. Tue-Sun 7:30pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Feb. 14. 397 Miller Ave., San Rafael. 388-5200. www.marintheatre.org
IndieFest @ Various Cinemas The 18th annual SF Independent Film Festival screens dozens of innovative new films at the Roxie, Brava and Alamo Drafthouse theatres. Thru Feb. 25. www.sfindie.com
Little Erik @ Aurora Theatre, Berkeley World premiere of Mark Jackson’s drama (an adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s Little Eyolf ) about a tech guru, her writer brother, and a family tragedy that turns their world upside down. $32-$50. Tue & Sun 7pm. WedSat 8pm. Also Sun 2pm. Thru Feb. 28. 2081 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 8434822. www.auroratheatre.org
MLR Press Authors @ Books Inc. Authors published by the gay erotic/ romance publisher –James Buchanan, Atom Yang, Alex Ironrod and Rob Rosen– read from their new works. 7pm. 2275 Market St. mlrbooks.com www.booksinc.net
The Unfortunates @ Strand Theatre The darkly comic blues-gospel musical tells of Big Joe, a tough-talking soldier cursed with giant hands, set in a funky bar, and the underworld. $35$95. Tue-Sat 7:30pm. Wed, Sat Sun 2pm. Thru April 10. 1127 Market St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org
Vanishing Ice @ David Brower Center
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ump in and out of love, for the arts, of course! As for romance, well, what do I know? Find more events online at www.ebar.com
Bridges @ Berkeley Playhouse World premiere of Cheryl L. Davis and Douglas J. Cohen’s new musical about different eras of the civil rights struggle. $17-$60. Thu-Sun various times thru March 6. 2640 College Ave. Berkeley. (510) 845-8542. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org
Brittsense @ Betti Ono Gallery, Oakland Forgotten Cities: The Power of Melanin, an exhibit of powerful photo portraits of Black Americans. Thru April 16. 1427 Broadway, Oakland. www.bettiono.com
Dance Lovers @ Joe Goode Annex
World premiere of MJ Kaufman’s whimsical play about a transgender man who returns to visit his Oregon family. $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Feb. 28. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org
Scott Welsh @ Strut SF You Pink Too Much, the local gay artist’s portraits and nudes. Thru Feb. 470 Castro St. www.strutsf.org
Stop Kiss @ Live Oak Theatre, Berkeley Theatre First’s production of Diana Son’s 1998 play about a love story gone off the rails. $10-$30. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. 1301 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 981-8150. www.theatrefirst.com
Vertigo @ SF Symphony Hall Actress Kim Novak appears before screenings (7pm) of the classic 1958 Alfred Hitchcock film set in San Francisco, with the SF Symphony performing the score. $30-$160. 8pm. Also Feb. 13, 8pm. Grove St. at Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org
James Graham Dance Theatre presents the fifth annual concert of real-life dancing couples, pals, and crushes in duets. $15-$35. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm. 401 Alabama St. www.dancelovers2016. brownpapertickets.com
From a Place With No Space @ Qulture Collective, Oakland Opening reception for a new exhibit of photos and video of dnacer-aerialist India Davis, who, with photographer Lauren Hind, visualizes a queer Black femme perspective on the mystical power of New Orleans culture. 6pm-8pm. Thru Feb. 26. Reg. hours Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. 1714 Franklin St., Oakland. www.qulturecollective.com
Love and Erotic Art @ Gallery on Castro Opening reception for a group exhibit of gay-themed works by local artists. 7pm-10pm. Thru Feb 29. 518A Castro St. www.facebook.com/sfartslave
Jersey Boys @ Orpheum Theatre The Tony-winning hit Broadway jukebox musical about the lives of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons returns. $55-$212. Tue-Sat 8pm. Wed & Sat 2pm. Sun 1pm & 6:30pm. Thru Feb. 14. 1192 Market St. www.shnsf.com
The Nether @ SF Playhouse Jennifer Haley’s unusual plays turns a fantasy world into a dark scifi thriller. $15-$45. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sat 3pm, Sun 2pm. Thru Mar. 5. 450 Post St. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org
Ondine @ Exit on Taylor Cutting Ball Theater’s world premiere of Katherine Sherman’s haunting take on The Little Mermaid, Pelleas and Mellisande myths in a transformational love story. $10-$50. Previews; gala opening Feb 12. Thu 7pm, Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun pm. Thru Mar. 6. 277 Taylor St. 525-1205. www.cuttingball.com
Opening reception for Vanishing Ice: Alpine and Polar Landscapes in Art 1775-2012, a historic group exhibit of old and contemporary images. 6:308:30pm. Curator lecture 7pm. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Thru May 11. 2150 Allston Way, Berkeley. www.browercenter.org
Hey Girl, Hey @ ERA Art Bar Radar Productions’ queer grrl tea dance, with proceeds benefiting the Sister Spit Tour, with spoken word from Jezebel Delilah X, Julia Serano, Nikki Darling, Juliana Delgado Lopera, Cassie J. Sneider, Virgie Tovar, and Maisha Z. Johnson; plus, Lesbian Speed Dating. $10-$20. 5pm-9pm. 19 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.radarproductions.org www.oaklandera.com/era
Jacinta Bunnell @ The Grease Diner, Alley Cat Books Author of gender-defying queer coloring books shares her new works and offers DIY workshops. Feb 13, 4pm, Grease Diner, 6604 San Pablo Ave., Oakland ($5-$10). Feb. 15, 5pm, Alley Cat Books, 3036 24th, SF ($1$5). www.queerbookcommittee.com
Feb 13: Join GLBT hikers for a 7-mile loop hike around Lake Lagunitas, Carpool meets 9:00 at Safeway sign, Market & Dolores. (510) 9850804. Feb. 14: a 10-mile hike that climbs out of San Pedro Valley on Brooks Creek Trail and Montara Mountain Trail. Carpool, 8:30am at Safeway sign. (650) 740-9849. www.sfhiking.com
Sun 14 Architecture of Life @ Berkeley Art Museum/ Pacific Film Archive
Tue 16
Kay Nilsson at Crotch Heat @ The Make Out Room Lorenz Mazon Dumuk
Sat 13 Bill Bowers @ Glama-Rama Salon New exhibit of the veteran gay local collage artist, whose Funk-and-Flash wearable art has been donned by rock stars and supermodels. Opening reception Feb. 13, 7:30-10:30pm. Thru March 20. 304 Valencia St. 861-4526. www.glamarama.com
The Colored Museum @ Buriel Clay Theatre George C. Wolfe’s deft satire of contemporary Black lives gets a local production by African American Shakespeare Company. $15-$34. Sat. (3pm & 8pm) and Sun. (3pm) thru March 6. 762 Fulton St. 762-2071. www.african-americanshakes.org
Dana Michel @ CounterPulse
New art and film museum, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, with more than 200 new and ancient works dating back 2,000 years. Free-$12. Thru May 29. 2625 Durant Ave., Berkeley. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu
Fat Sunday @ PianoFight Enjoy a V-Day Bash with a Mardi Gras Twist at the eclectic theatre company’s space; dinner and variety show with comedy (a King Cake dessert!), karaoke, a New Orleans style brass band, DJed dancing, pop-up burlesque and more. $25-$75. 6pm-12am. 144 Taylor St. www.pianofight.com
Mon 15 Black Love @ Strut SF Black Love: A Night of Poetry and Music by Black Queer Artists, with Maisha Z. Johnson, Gregory Pond, Kwan Booth, and music by Jade Way, and MCs Na’amen Gobert Tilahun and Black Benatar. 8pm. 470 Castro St. 437-3400. www.strutsf.org
Faggot Sensibility @ Bound Together Bookstore
The Montreal dancemaker performs Yellow Towel, her solo work about revisiting her childhood imitations of blonde girls, and reclaiming her own identity. $30-$160. Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm. 3316 24th St. www.counterpulse.org
First of a new twice monthly slidelectures focusing on gay men’s consciousness. First and third Mondays. Feb. 15: Queer Spirit Archetypes in Art: Will Roscoe ; presented by Calamus. 7pm. 1369 Haight St. www.calamusfellowship.org
Drag Queen Storytime @ Books Inc.
Reigning Queens @ GLBT History Museum
Bring the kids as Yves Saint Croissant reads children’s books for drag-hip kids. 12pm. 2275 Market St. 8646777. www.booksinc.net
Exhibit of 1970s San Francisco drag ball photos by Roz Joseph; curated by Joey Plaster. Thru Feb. Reg, hours Mon, Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Sun 12pm5pm. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org
Crotch Heat @ Make-Out Room
Aubergine @ Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Thu 18
René Capone’s Chronicles of Zebra Boy @ 611 Hyde
Alex Chee @ Green Apple Books The gay author of the highly acclaimed second novel, The Queen of the Night, about a 19th-century Paris opera singer, reads from and signs copies of the book. 7:30pm. 1231 9th Ave. www.greenapplebooks.com
Roman Vishniac Rediscovered @ Contemporary Jewish Museum New exhibit of photos from the prolific documenter of Jewish life in eastern Europe. Thru May 29. Other exhibits about Jewish culture, too. Free (members)-$12. Fri-Tue 11am5pm, Thu 11am-8pm (closed Wed). 736 Mission St. 655-7800. thecjm.org
Tue 16
SF Hiking Club @ Mt. Tam, Montara Mountain
Tue 16
Fri 12 Tony Taccone directs Julia Cho’s acclaimed drama about an estranged Asian family. $48-$89. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed & Sun 7pm. Sun 2pm. Thru March 20. 2025 Addison St. (510) 647– 2949. www.berkeleyrep.org
Sagittarius Ponderosa @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
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The Write Club SF presents Baruch Porras-Hernandez hosting a night of battling readings and stories about sex with Julian Shendelman, Na’amen Tilahun, Mandy Hu, Zoe Young, Kay Nilsson and Damian Ledbetter. Audience chooses winner, whose charity gets cash. $5-$15. 8pm. DJed tunes afterward. 3225 22nd St. www.makeoutroom.com
Alex Chee @ Green Apple Books
Wed 17 Fauxnique @ Oasis Monique Jenkinson, the acclaimed faux queen dancer-performer, brings her new show, The F Word, about high femme feminism and Fosse-esque moves, to the nightclub. See feature in this issue. $25. 7pm thru Feb. 20. 298 11th St. www.fauxnique.net www.sfoasis.com
Mighty Real @ Brava Theatre The popular Sylvester musical, starring Anthony Wayne, returns, with new sets, songs and costumes; special benefit nights for various local nonprofits (Feb 18: AIDS Emergency Fund, Feb. 28: BACCE). $35-$100. Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed & Sun 7pm. Sun 2pm. Thru March 13. 8pm. 2781 24th St. www.brava.org
Smack Dab @ Strut SF The eclectic monthly open mic event, cohosted by Larry-bob Roberts and Dana Hopkins, this month features poet Kay Nilsson. 7:30pm sig-up. 8pm show. 470 Castro St. www.strutsf.org
Thu 18 Comedy Returns @ El Rio The fun monthly comedy night this time includes Diame Amos, Tom Ammiano, Francesca Fiorentini, Mary Carouba and host Lisa Geduldig. $7$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission st. at Precita. (800) 838-3006. www.elriosf.com
Kira Asatryan @ Books Inc. Author of Stop Being Lonely : Three Simple Steps to Developing Close Freindships and Deep Relationships discusses her new self-help book. 7pm. 2275 Market St. booksinc.net
Leo Kottke @ Herbst Theatre The master folk-instrumental guitarist performs. $35-$45. 7:30pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. www.omniconcerts.com
The New Mutants @ GLBT History Museum Author Ramzi Fawaz ( The New Mutants: Superheroes and the Radical Imagination of American Comics) and gay comic artist Justin Hall ( Glamazonia ) discuss queerness in comics and American culture. $5. 7pm. 4127 18th St. glbthistory.org
René Capone @ 611 Hyde Opening reception for an exhibit of the local gay artist’s new animalthemed works, The Chronicles of Zebra Boy, which offer a metaphor of his recent orthopedic surgery ordeals; also, artists Matt Pipes and Alex Brown. Reception 6pm-9pm. 1pm9pm Feb 17-19. 611 Hyde St. at Geary. 595-6325. www.renecapone.com
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Books>>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 23
Bleary-eyed gay American in Berlin by Tim Pfaff
I
t’s a wonder Black Deutschland got out of the barn. A book that had everything going for it – who in its imagined target audience would not want to read about the experience of a black gay American man in Berlin just before the fall of the Wall? – Darryl Pinckney’s mess of a new novel (Farrar, Straus and Giroux), his second, emerges as a book proposal posing as a book, a long query letter artfully postponing the work of writing, an inauspicious beginning to Black History Month. To the extent that it’s the writer’s job to do the work, to make the reader’s job easier (a debatable point, I grant), Pinckney, like his protagonist Jed Goodfinch, has reneged on his assignment. Jed – on first sighting a recovering alcoholic and addict, a promising subplot dropped into the blender like a raw potato – has “left Chicago behind for good. I was inordinately proud of my one-way ticket. I’d become the person I so admired, the black American expatriate. I came back to West Berlin ready for adult life, willing to register with the police.” He eventually takes an ill-defined (and, it will turn out, ill-executed) job with a tony architectural design firm of considerable pretension and questionable achievement. At first you want to praise the book’s fluid handling of time, but
in no time at all you don’t know what time it is or where you are, and, such as it matters, whether Jed is still clean and sober. The plot, again like the protagonist, lurches back and forth between Berlin and Chicago, the latter being the city more richly evoked. Early on, Jed’s Chicago cousin Ruthanne (in Berlin, a pianist unhelpfully nicknamed Cello) shows promise as an important, well-drawn character. But by the time the Wall falls in the novel’s final pages, the only characters you’re likely to go on thinking about are Jed’s parents. As they are introduced, back in Chicago, back then,
“In every room of the house, a clinic of the self was in progress. Mom was a missionary and we, her children, were an indigenous people.” This is good writing until it becomes just another, pesky obstacle to knowing what’s going on. Pinckney’s got a way with words, a turn of phrase, that makes a sentence eye- or ear-catching. If only each clever sentence didn’t feel like the book starting over. The novel is long on surface incident that doesn’t add up to much. The last slack I tried to cut the novel was that it was picaresque, except that it wasn’t episodic so much as rambling, and the protagonist wasn’t picaro enough. The boat the book most grievously misses is the AIDS novel, of which it might have been a fine exemplar. I was in Germany, though not Berlin, at the time the Wall fell, and gay men were suffocating if not with, then from, AIDS and its dire implications for continuing sexual liberation. This was a country in which gay men had, in living memory, been sent to death camps. But the virus of Schwulesburg and its discontents are little more than lurking menaces in this only intermittently frightening cyclone of a story. What little sex is mentioned is, perhaps gratefully, not depicted. The reader’s hope springs up See page 27 >>
Don’t blame it on Rio by Brian Bromberger
I
f, as a paunchy, middleaged man, you found a 21-year-old, very attractive lover who returned your affections, most gay men would be ecstatic, on their knees thanking their deity of choice or higher power. But that’s not the case for Edu, a successful playwright in the throes of writer’s block, and constantly wrestling with conflicting feelings about his boyfriend. He is cranky and brooding throughout this new Brazilian film, Aya Arcos, just released on DVD (TLA). Edu (Cesar Augusto) meets Fabio (Daniel Passi), 21, a hustler working the downtrodden section of Rio de Janeiro, not the section to advertise the glamorous host city of the upcoming Summer Olympics. They begin a relationship that seems mutual, though Edu does give Fabio money and clothes. Fabio is carefree and loves to hang out with his friends, who are mostly fellow prostitutes. He doesn’t use condoms in his job or when he is having frequent sex with Edu. Edu disapproves of Fabio’s work and lifestyle, but is either unwilling or unable to make him stop. He is concerned, however, that Fabio is HIV+ and might be putting him at risk. After many arguments and much persuasion, Edu convinces Fabio to take the HIV test, as he does himself. It’s not giving away too much of the plot to reveal that Fabio is negative, while Edu is positive and initially blames Fabio. Yet the gist of this somber movie is not about HIV, but rather about Edu’s midlife crisis. A subplot involves Edu meeting a former boyfriend, Thiago, who is spending time
seem more interesting than it really is. The pace is sluggish, with long, boring intervals, and a microbudget featuring the same two dreary rooms repeatedly is a handicap. It was written and directed by Maximilian Moll, a German filmmaker, and one wonders whether there is a culture clash here that stifles the pictue’s rhythm and movement. There are frequent shots of the famous statute of Jesus that overlooks Rio, yet they don’t seem to serve the plot or the atmospherics. Perhaps Moll was asking for divine help, but alas his prayer was not answered. The one bright spot is actor Daniel Passi, who in addition to being gorgeous, attempts to portray Fabio as a three-dimensional character, a kind of gay Brazilian version of Zorba the Greek, living life for the present moment in spite of continual change. Caesar Augusto has the unenviable task of personifying the moody Edu, an unlikable character whom one wants to tell to get over himself. Even the sex scenes seem pedestrian, though shots of Passi’s delectable ass make them bearable. One wants the best for Fabio, but knows that Edu probably deserves the misery he brings upon himself. Even Rio, itself a kind of character, seems depressed. In half the scenes, it’s raining. Maybe this symbolizes the investors crying once they saw the finished film. One can’t help but wonder, if a Brazilian director had made this film, whether it might have had a more upbeat aura, instead of the German angst and foreboding that pervade this picture. Rio deserves better. So does the audience.t C
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with Fabio. Edu confronts him, and Thiago insists they’re only friends. Thiago then reveals he’d been in love with Edu, but Edu ignored him, and his rejection “ruined my life. You see nothing but yourself.” Edu claims they had no commitment, just sex. Later, talking with his best friend, an actress waiting for him to write her a plum role, he begins to question his identity. He learns painful truths about himself, such that he is hurting people without realizing it. “I thought I was a good man who couldn’t hurt anybody. I thought I was the victim.” Edu is deeply ambivalent about Fabio, and is attracted to his housemate, another prostitute, who attempts to come between Fabio and Edu. Whether or not their passion for each other can survive all these revelations becomes the centrifugal force animating the film’s second half. This description makes Aya Arcos
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4:35 PM
<< TV
24 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
Driving around on late-night TV by Victoria A. Brownworth
W
hat do we love on TV this week? Lots. We’ve been loving James Corden on CBS’ The Late Late Show since he took over for Craig Ferguson. He’s funny, selfdeprecating, queer-friendly, British, musical. Oh, is he musical. Now it’s been announced he’s going to be hosting the 2016 Tony Awards. We gave last year’s Tony hosting by Kristen Chenoweth and Alan Cumming a mixed review, but it was definitely tres gay. And though Corden is straight, he has a lot of flaming characteristics that we love. He also has an OBE, and he’s only 37. One of our fave bits Corden does is “Carpool Karaoke.” In these pre-taped segments, Corden drives around with famous singers and sings with them. (We told you he was musical.) Trust us, it’s fabulous. This week it was Coldplay’s Chris Martin. Last week it was Elton John. But our fave was the debut: Corden with Adele, who is just charmingly down-to-earth and oh-so-sweary. Because it was like driving around with Corden and Adele in the back seat, it became the most viral video from a late-night show since 2013, accruing 42 million hits in the first five days. Corden is going to be brilliant at the Tonys. He has a natural, easy-going humor, and he can sing and dance. We can’t wait. In the interim, check him out on CBS and the carpool lane. All the segments are at CBS.com. Speaking of awards shows, the SAG Awards on Jan. 30 slapped the #OscarsSoWhite really hard. Some of our faves took home welldeserved awards, like Idris Elba, who’s been oh-so-good on Luther (he won Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries). Uzo Aduba won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for Orange Is the New Black, and OITNB and its multicultural cast of women (and a few men) won for best ensemble performance by a comedy. Viola Davis won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her riveting performance as the bisexual Dr. Annalise Keating on ABC’s How to Get Away with Murder. Queen Latifah won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries for her role as Bessie Smith in HBO’s Bessie. Another winner of note: Jeffrey Tambor for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series for his
role as an elderly transwoman in Transparent. Our money is on Sarah Paulson getting one of these next year for her role as Marcia Clark in American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson. The limited series, which premiered Feb. 2 on F/X, is among the best shows on TV right now, and another of Ryan Murphy’s productions. We didn’t think we could stand to watch the series after a year of covering the actual trial back in 1995. Yet here we are. Rapt. The story is the same. But the casting and the acting are so fine that it’s impossible not to be enthralled. Especially good is the incredible Paulson. Paulson is always working. She’s been on several seasons of American Horror Story, for which she’s received three Emmy nominations, and is currently on the big screen in Todd Haynes’ lush lesbian drama Carol. She was most unforgettable for us as the epitome of white female privilege in 12 Years a Slave. Paulson is dating actress Holland Taylor, and was on Entertainment Tonight talking about whether this might be her year for an Emmy (she deserves one!) and what Taylor thought of her beloved in the role. Taylor gave Paulson a thumbs up, but “she may be a bit biased,” Paulson told ET. Paulson is the best of the cast, but everyone is really good. The more we see of Courtney B. Vance (Johnnie Cochran), whom we’ve been watching since Law & Order: Criminal Intent, the more we think he epitomizes just how cheated Americans are of superb black actors because of white producers. Murphy and his producing partner Brad Falchuk have made some effort to bring actors of color into their series. Glee was diversely cast, as has been much of AHS. Vance’s wife, Angela Bassett, has starred on several seasons of AHS. Vance is also a theater actor and has been nominated for several Tonys. Last season he guest-starred in an episode of Scandal as the father of a teen killed by a white police officer in one of the most searing scenes we can recall about race in America. Vance was brilliant in a role that needed the control of a truly superb actor to make it work. In The People v. O.J. Simpson, Vance’s Johnnie Cochran gives us entree into what lay behind the flamboyance we witnessed in the courtroom. But everyone gives strong performances here: Cuba Gooding, Jr. as O.J., Nathan Lane as F. Lee Bailey, Bruce Greenwood as Gil Garcetti, David Schwimmer as Robert Kardashian.
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CBS-TV
James Corden drives around and sings with Adele in “Carpool Karaoke.”
End of the world
NBC’s new comedy You, Me and the Apocalypse is a BritishAmerican production that’s hard to define. A group of people living their own lives unconnected are introduced until it is announced that a comet is scheduled to hit Earth in 34 days. Some of these people can be seen in a bunker together under a town called Slough in the U.K. as they watch the end of the world on TV. There are elements of Monty Python, as well as of more arcane British comedies, which is to say the humor is more wry than thigh-slapping. Nevertheless, it’s compelling, and the characters are well-drawn and -acted. Among the ensemble cast are a few American headliners: Jenna Fischer (The Office), Megan Mullally (Will & Grace), Rob Lowe (Grinder). The inimitable Diana Rigg is also in the cast. The star is British actor Michael Bayton in a dual role. Bayton co-starred with James Corden in the British series The Wrong Mans, which the two co-wrote. The story moves between England, America and Vatican City. People are falling apart as the time clicks out, doing things they never would have dreamed of were it not for looming annihilation. By turns charming and implausible, it is thoroughly engaging. Mullally is as good as a white supremacist as she was as a pampered lady who lunches on Will & Grace. Another surprisingly enjoyable dramedy cum police procedural/ sci-fi fantasy is Fox’s Lucifer, starring the super sexy Welsh actor Tom Ellis (Rush) as the title character. Lucifer was developed by Tom Kapinos (Californication) from a work by Neil Gaiman. So yes, it’s awesome. The series focuses on Lucifer Morningstar, described by Fox as “bored and unhappy as the Lord of Hell, he resigns his throne and abandons his kingdom for the beauty of LA, where he gets his kicks helping the LAPD punish criminals.” He runs a super hot club in LA, and plays piano when not bedding women. In the opening episode, a young woman whom Lucifer once aided getting into show business is murdered. Lucifer may be out of hell, but he’s still into punishment and wants to avenge the young woman’s death by doing something hellish. In the process, he meets Chloe Decker, whose resistance to his powers intrigues him. Chloe is played by Laura German, who became a lesbian heartthrob as Leslie the lesbian on Chicago Fire until, like so many lesbians on the tube, she met an untimely end. Ellis and German have great chemistry, much like Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic on Castle,
which has some similar threads to Lucifer. There is lots of witty and urbane banter, some fun backstory, and then, naturally, because hell is involved, some monstering. Other members of the cast include the intolerably sexy Leslie-Ann Brandt as the pansexual Maze, the war leader of the Lilim, a race descended from Lilith, which we hope bodes well for lesbian action. Maze is Lucifer’s one real confidante. But even she can tell there’s something happening to him. D.B.Woodside (Suits) plays Amenadial, a dark angel who swoops in at the most inopportune times to warn Lucifer that if he doesn’t come back to the fiery pit, things will get ugly. Which they soon do. This is a very enjoyable series, and one of the many reasons to watch is that One Million Moms says it glorifies Satan and wants the show taken off the air. Seriously. “The new program Lucifer glorifies Satan as a caring, likable person in human flesh,” One Million Moms exhorts. “The program includes graphic acts of violence, a nightclub featuring scantily-clad women, and a demon. The message of the show is clear. Lucifer is just misunderstood. He doesn’t want to be a bad guy, it’s God who is forcing him to play that role.” Saying all that like it’s a bad thing. Speaking of moms, Mom revealed Bonnie (Alison Janney) to be bisexual on the Feb. 4 episode. Her ex? Jeanine, played by none other than Rosie O’Donnell. Sounds fab, right? No. They meet up again at a 12-step group. Bonnie tries to make amends for having duped Jeanine into thinking she was a lesbian, telling her daughter Christy (Anna Faris) that “I faked it with a man. I could fake it with a woman.” At least Bonnie had the excuse she was homeless, an active alcoholic and trying as best she could to provide for herself and her daughter. But then Jeanine reveals that she used to give Bonnie Quaaludes and alcohol so Bonnie would stay with her. Well, that’s nice, and Bill Cosby creepy. Jeanine: “You gonna tell me why you’re here?” Bonnie: “Why do you think? I need to make amends. You were so good to me and Christy, and I just treated you horribly.” “I accept your amends.” “Really? It’s that easy?” “Well, in all fairness, I did my best to keep you loaded so you’d stick around. So I guess I owe you an amends, too.” “Wait, I’m confused. All these years I thought I was the one who took advantage of you. Now you’re saying I was the victim?” “Some victim. I kept a wellstocked bar, I tossed you a couple of Quaaludes, and you lived with me
for two years rent-free.” “Two years?” “Time flies when you put bourbon on your pancakes.” Yikes. We know this is supposed to be funny, but it just gave us the creeps. And having real-life lesbian Rosie playing a rapey lesbian taking advantage of a homeless single mother? Do better, CBS. The Basic Instinct days are over. We wish the election were over. We aren’t sure we will make it to November if the media biases in TV news continue the way they have been. Feb. 4, after the Democratic debate in New Hampshire on MSNBC, ABC’s Nightline didn’t cover it. At all. The news of the day. Their lead? Trump. In-depth interview, backstory about the campaign, blah blah blah. The coup de grace for us had to be Bob Woodward on MSNBC’s Morning Joe after the Iowa caucus saying Hillary Clinton’s big problem is “shouting”: “She shouts. There is something unrelaxed about the way she is communicating, and I think that just jumps off the television screen.” For the next 10 minutes, it was deconstruction of the shouting. “I’m sorry to dwell on the tone issue,” Woodward said, clearly not even remotely sorry, “but there is something here where Hillary Clinton suggests that she’s almost not comfortable with herself, and, you know, self-acceptance is something that you communicate on television.” Host Joe Scarborough chimed in, “Has nobody told her that the microphone works? Because she always keeps it up here.” That’s “just not natural,” he added. Not natural. Wow. Cokie Roberts attempted to explain that being at a rally often demands yelling to be heard. She was ignored. “She could make a case for herself if she could just kind of lower the temperature and say, ‘Look, this is what I’ve done, this is what I can do, this is what I believe in.’ And kind of get off this screaming stuff,” Woodward said. All of which might be comical were it not on one of the top morning shows and a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist wasn’t saying it. The “she’s shouting” meme continued through the New Hampshire town hall and the Democratic debate. Even Geraldo Rivera, several years older than Clinton, weighed in, telling Fox News that Clinton shouts because she’s hard of hearing. Meanwhile, the candidate everyone knows is a shouter is Bernie Sanders. But apparently it’s okay if you’re a man. So for your up-to-the-minute political info and the best new shows of 2016, you know you really must stay tuned.t
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Film>>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 25
Invasion-of-the-month club by David Lamble
THE CLIFF HOUSE TERRACE ROOM
J
ust the name alone, Michael Francis Moore, resonates. Moore, now 61, is a native of Flint, Michigan. Yes, that Flint, Michigan, home to a shuttered General Motors auto plant, currently in the news for leadcontaminated water pipes. Moore is always good copy: give him an award and he’ll make a speech. After making agit-prop docs against GM and its corporate honcho (1989’s Roger and Me), the insanity of American gun violence (2002’s Bowling for Columbine, using the Colorado high school mass-shooting tragedy as a launching pad for a witty film sermon against the National Rifle Association and then-NRA spokesman Charlton Heston), and US president George W. Bush’s war policies (Fahrenheit 9/11), Moore has been unusually quiet on the film front recently, while still sending out a volley of articles, hosting small film festivals, and making the TV talk-show circuit. Now the master is back, with a softer, gentler message in the ironically titled new documentary Where To Invade Next. The film finds Moore trotting around to a host of “second-tier” yet hardly Third World countries from North Africa to Scandinavia. With his media clout, Moore gets one-on-one audiences with earnest, sometimes bemused state leaders and citizen activists, carrying with him an American flag that symbolizes his “invasion.” His message can be boiled down to: If a moderate Muslim country, Morocco, can join the 21st century with medical care for all, why is the US holding back? Part of Moore’s strategy is to avoid piling onto a lameduck Obama, who clearly tried his best, even if “Obamacare” is less than first-class, too expensive by far, and leaves out too many medically indigent hard-working Americans. But WTIN arrives just in time to
A UNIQUE SAN FRANCISCO EXPERIENCE Ceremonies • Receptions • Family Celebrations • Parties
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Michael Moore in his new documentary Where To Invade Next.
feed the flames of Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders’ student-supported campaign for the White House. Moore is both a joy and a chore to write about, because he has so many oars in the water that one can easily become disoriented by his brazen ubiquity. Is he a model citizen? Depends on your point of view. He’s a born Catholic who has attacked his church’s teachings and its actual shabby record without letting the door slam on his ample rump. Is he a bully? Did he unfairly confront a clearly disoriented Charlton Heston during their gun debate? Is the kinder, gentler Michael Moore, like Democratic Socialist Bernie Sanders in his refusal to
Naked truth
by Ernie Alderete
M
asculinity is a succinct name for photographer Michael Stokes’ debut book. I am particularly impressed by a naked football player on the cover, standing in the shadow of the Romanesque Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, site of the 1932 and 1984 Olympic Games. He may be a real football player, but I don’t recognize him without his uniform. Despite massive tattoos around his neck, on his right breast, right forearm, and right torso, he still manages to appear completely clean-cut. His muscular young body is virtually hairless, and the hair on his head is cropped close to his scalp. He’s holding a football in his right hand that, surprise, blocks our view of his crown jewels. A bronzed blonde guy with tats is a full-frontal nude, one of the few pictures that makes no effort to obscure the genitals. He’s wearing nothing
Creating Memories for a Lifetime!
but his dogtags, which almost reach down to his belly button. His simple blue-ink tats aren’t particularly impressive. Two doves on his upper chest fly towards each other, and a constellation of five-point stars decorates his right arm. He would look better without them, but they still can’t destroy his Nordic appeal. His body hair is a bit darker than the short platinum hair on his head and the almost imperceptible stubble on his face. His head is slightly bowed, and his eyes closed, so we can’t see just how blue his eyes are. He has a sixinch-long scar on the upper part of his right arm, as if someone took a can opener to his flesh. But not even a scar can mar his classic masculine beauty. Masculinity by Michael Stokes, published in 2012, is out of print and will cost you from $500 for a used copy to over $700 for a rare new one. It seems gay male books are appreciating in value faster than precious metals!t
go for the jugular against Hillary Clinton, merely striking a pose? Or is his a recognition that the country is divided along hard-to-define lines, with dangers lurking for the unwary? WTIN is a great mix of entertainment, attacks on the 1%, cautions about ideological hubris, and a subtle reminder that nothing lasts forever. In it, Moore reminds us that this richest society in the world has fallen pitifully short of providing the basic human right of health care. Someday there will no longer be a Michael Moore satirically planting the American flag down in countries whose people have left us behind in the proverbial rear-view mirror of history.t
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<< Books
26 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
Diversity squared by Jim Piechota
Square Zair Pair, written by Jase Peeples, illustrated by Christine Knopp; Amazon Digital Services, $14.99 hardcover, $2.99 e-book riginally funded by an ambitious, optimistic Kickstarter campaign in 2015, the unique, inspiring LGBT-themed children’s book Square Zair Pair features a mythical land filled with a community of cute characters. It’s a place where opposites attract, until two of a kind open the hearts and minds of the entire village. This rhyming picture book is the brainchild of dual creatives: The Advocate entertainment editor Jase Peeples, and former Disney Interactive artist Christine Knopp, who successfully collaborated on this project. Through words and drawings, they aim to teach children about celebrating differences and the power and beauty of diversity in life. Set in a mystical kingdom called Hanamandoo, the tale features the Zairs, who are both square and
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round creatures hatched from purple spotted eggs in a patch. Commonly, the square Zairs pair off with the round, their tails intertwine, and they cohabitate in huts in the valley of Meez. When two square Zairs appear together as a loving couple, they are mocked and scorned by the others and banished to a hilltop. Running out of food, they join their square paws together and climb the trees for berries nestled in the higher limbs, a tactic which comes in handy when the village below is crippled after a freak snowstorm. The adorable 23-page allegory is told in Dr. Seuss-style rhyming couplets with purple-hued illustrations sure to delight children of any age, and adults, too. The inspiration for the book arose after a married gay couple remarked to Peeples about their trouble in finding good children’s books with positive LGBT themes. With this colorful, enchanting fable, Peeples and Knopp
have created a splendid addition to the ever-expanding bookshelf of LGBTfriendly children’s titles. Though the drawings and the story’s message stress unity and
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Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York/ADAGP, Paris
Pierre Bonnard, “Self-Portrait” (c. 1904). Oil on canvas. Private Collection.
Bonnard
From page 17
spectacular colors of his sun-kissed landscapes, or to luxuriate in the warmth of his domestic scenes, dense with mood and familial comfort. Now, with the arrival of Pierre Bonnard: Painting Arcadia at the Legion of Honor, it’s like visiting a beloved old friend. Even if your connection to this artist doesn’t run as deep, the traveling exhibition of 70 works, which originated at the Musee d’Orsay, is an antidote to Super Bowl fatigue or whatever ails you. Often unfairly derided as merely a decorative painter of pretty pictures, Bonnard was a complex and sophisticated artist, as is amply demonstrated in this beautiful show of his paintings. Early on, he fell in with Les Nabis, a group of rebels pledged to reinvigorating the moribund medium of painting that included his
Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York/ADAGP, Paris
Pierre Bonnard, “Woman with a Cat, or The Demanding Cat” (1912). Oil on canvas. Musée d’Orsay.
embrace diversity, soon after the book’s publication Peeples received a hatefully defaced page from his book along with taunting Tweets from the notoriously bullying Post-Impressionist, avant-garde cohorts, Maurice Denis and Edouard Vuillard. (Nabis roughly translates to prophets, as in prophets of modern art.) Close to Monet and Renoir and inspired by Matisse, with whom he corresponded in the 1820s, Bonnard is considered a bridge between PostImpressionism and Modernism. His skewed, vertiginous perspectives, like those one might find peering down into the viewfinder of a box camera, suggest he was influenced by photography, as does his radical cropping, and he was already incorporating elements of abstraction into compositions that never lost sight of a central humanity. In one of the show’s most extraordinary works, the stunning “Nude in an Interior” (1912-14), for example, the barely visible face and attenuated nude body of his long-time girlfriend and eventual wife, Marthe, who’s at a coy remove, are nearly obscured by the doorframe that opens onto a back room. The painting is dominated by well-defined vertical planes, but the deep magenta and blues of the carpet and cheery tangerine and rose wallpaper surreptitiously steal our attention away from the erotic promise just out of view. Aside from modern Paris, women, especially naked or nearly naked women in the privacy of the boudoir or bath, were his favorite subjects. “Woman Dozing on a Bed” (1899), a languorous, blatantly erotic depiction of his partner reclining, thighs apart, on rumpled bed sheets, illuminated by discolored antique gold light, was among his first nudes. In “Nude in the Bathtub” (1925), only the bather’s pale legs, floating in the water like a corpse, are visible. The narrow white tub, which bisects the canvas, looks as though it’s standing upright; a headless figure, possibly Bonnard, enters stage right, and clothes are draped across a bluish-toned upholstered bench in a changing room beyond. The aura is tinged with emotional unrest and a touch of the macabre, not surprising given the work was painted after the suicide of Bonnard’s mistress, who killed herself when she discovered he had married Marthe. The exhibition opens with his early Nabi period, shaped by Japonisme, a craze in vogue with the public in general and European artists in particular who gravitated to Japanese woodblock prints. Those influences permeate “Women in the Garden” (1890-91), a quartet of gorgeous rectangular paintings of chic women in patterned finery and hats that once formed a single canvas before being divided into panels. Though there are many
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anti-gay Westboro Baptist Church. The hate-speech clan had scheduled a protest to rally against Peeples’ in-store reading at Books, Inc. on Market Street last Saturday. But, as has become typical of this faction, their bark was much bigger than their bite, and the group never appeared at the reading. Instead, according to veteran Sister of Perpetual Indulgence Sister Roma, love and peace prevailed, and about 75 proZair Pair counter-protesters gathered together in support of a book Roma believes “couldn’t be farther from gay propaganda.” The Sister wasn’t at all surprised when members from the Topeka, Kansas-based church didn’t show up, noting, “They seem to think that threatening to protest is the same thing as actually protesting. We showed them what it truly means to have conviction and passion in true San Francisco style! It was a beautiful day.”t examples of large-scale landscapes, it’s the intimate paintings that are most magnetic. Bonnard pulls you into compressed interiors, toward subjects like his brother-in-law, who’s depicted smoking a pipe by the firelight in a darkened room lent subtle dimension by the crimson wallpaper (“Intimacy,” 1891), or “The Checkered Blouse” (1892), a marvelous crisp portrait of the artist’s then-20-year-old sister in a red-and-white gingham top, seated at a kitchen table gingerly picking at food and clutching a contented kitty. The work illustrates his early predilection for layering flat, lively patterns and multiple points of view in the context of three-dimensional spaces. It would be remiss not to mention the solo appearance of “The White Cat” (1894), whose inordinately long and skinny fashionmodel legs imply she imbibed a feline version of a “drink me” potion. Warming orange ochre tones infiltrate the spacious, wood-paneled offices of “The Brothers BernheimJeune” (1920), where two well-todo, dark-suited business partners convene across from one another at a desk covered with white and lavender documents; adding depth is a large window with a view to a violet garden. It has the authentic feel of a real, lived-in place. But, for paradise, Bonnard journeyed almost every year to the South of France, where he found and brought to vivid life – for himself and for us – the radiant visual splendor of a place he compared to an “Arabian Nights experience.” The iridescent blue seas, the sun’s changing yellow light softly bathing pastel houses and tropical orange mimosas made for a turnof-the-century Garden of Eden, or the idyllic Arcadia of Greek mythology, a feast for the eyes realized in the dazzling “Southern Landscape and Two Children” (1916-18) and other works he produced on his sojourns to the French Riviera. Evidently Bonnard’s internal world was not as sunny, judging from a trio of self-portraits, a few of the many he painted. We see him first, in 1904, as a vital, serious fellow of 37, and witness his transformation into a distracted, introspective figure, his face distorted, blurred or yellowed like old papers. The last and most poignant, “The Boxer” (1931), created when he was 64, shows a frail man, his virility fading, with fists raised, ready to fend off mortality. For an artist who filled the heart of the world with so much beauty, Arcadia ultimately proved elusive.t Through May 15 at the California Palace of the Legion of Honor.
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Music>>
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 27
Dance strut by Gregg Shapiro
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lly Murs’ fourth album Never Been Better (SYCO-ColumbiaModest) is better than his previous albums, especially if you like to dance. The focus has been shifted from pre-fab Brit-pop (thanks, Simon Cowell!) to more straightforward dance-pop. There’s a difference. There’s less stylistic borrowing and more innovation. You can hear it immediately on the club strut of “Did You Miss Me?” and the bouncing beat of “Stick with Me.” For the most part, though, Murs hasn’t completely abandoned his carefully and commercially manufactured sound, as you can hear on duets with Travie McCoy (“Wrapped Up”) and Demi Lovato (“Up”) and ballads “Tomorrow” and “Hope You Got What You Came For.” Sam Smith he’s not. Smallpools put a distinctly sunny L.A. spin on the dance-pop heard on its debut album Lovetap! (RCA). With the handclaps and shouts on “American Love,” you might be tempted to dance the kazatsky, but please resist. “Killer Whales” draws on the Cars playbook, while “Dreaming” has more of a club vibe. “Street Fight” goes for a stadiumsized dance feel, “Over & Over” brings the suburban white funk, and “Admission to Your Party” invites a great big beat. Even if you don’t understand a word that Stromae says (he sings and raps en Francais) he wants only
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Black Deutschland
From page 23
one last time when a boyfriend appears on the scene: Duallo, a lithe 19-year-old black man from Cameroon with ambitions to be a singer and a fascination with black American music. He’s tremendously exciting until Jed describes him in Jed’s terms. “He smelled like Aunt Loretta’s cold cream in her dish in front of the mirror on her tiny vanity table as it was in 1966.” When we desperately want to know more – everything – about Duallo, we get a sorry saga of adolescent masturbation. “I couldn’t tell if I was really in love or if I was just relieved to have someone, to have joined the living.” Still: “I was in my grove, my bed, and Duallo was in my arms again. I kissed him and, incredibly, he was still the someone kissing me back.” As for sex, the most vivid evocation is this: “It was never less than wondrous that he consented. I’d just pulled off the condom, making it snap, when they knocked.” This particular “they” is not the people informing him of his father’s heart attack back in Chicago, before the fall of the Wall the book’s biggest incident. You gasp at some of Jed’s observations about life in Berlin. “I got hung up over the question of laundry.” For real? Is that even a sentence? Has the editor nodded off? The writing verges on the atmospheric in its depiction of Berliners dancing on the tumbling Wall and reverse-christening it with champagne. “West Berlin had been up all night, crying, honking.” But the book’s final paragraphs drag us back, anticlimactically, to Isherwood’s Berlin of a half-century previous. Pinckney knows his way around the English language, which has its rules, rather strict ones, about adjective order. The fact that, when his story is told, you don’t know whether Jed’s really a black gay man or a gay black man is a problem. He never settles on his exact skin color. It’s shocking to consider the opportunities Pinckney squanders telling his story through the bleary eyes of his antihero. What might have been a compelling slice of history is reduced to bar talk.t
one thing from you: that you danse (translation: dance!). Stromae gives us plenty of opportunities to do so on Racine Carée (Casablanca). Just try not moving to rhythmic tracks “Ta Fête” (“Your Day”), “Papaoutaí,” “Bâtard” (“Bastard”), “Tous Les Mémes” (“All the Same”), “Humaín Á L’eau” (“Human to Water”) and “Sommeil” (“Sleep”). Just a few short years ago Brit twosome the Ting Tings were riding high on the success of their 2008 debut album We Started Nothing, a
disc that spawned hit singles such as “That’s Not My Name,” “Great DJ” and “Shut Up and Let Me Go.” But
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the 2012 follow-up Sounds from Nowheresville failed to maintain the momentum. The Ting Tings are back with Super Critical (Finca), a nine-track disc that has them moving in a decidedly dance direction. They flash a sense of humor and history on “Wrong Club.” “Only Love” and the title track are reminders of why we listened to the duo in the first place, while “Communication” sounds like a fresh start. Canadian club music duo Humans leaves its mark with the
hypnotic full-length pop-tronic debut Noontide (Hybridity). British trance trio Above & Beyond hits new heights on We Are All We Need (Anjunabeats/Ultra). The third time’s the charm for French DJ Etienne De Crécy as he revives his Super Discount series with Super Discount 3 (A+LSO-Sony-Pixadelic). German electro artist Fritz Kalbrenner’s new studio disc is Ways Over Water (Suol/BMG). SPC ECO raises the bar on the beats on The Art of Pop (Saint Marie/Kaboom).t
: Includes three nights GRAND: Maui Getaway ui Sunseeker Resort accommodations at the Ma via Alaska Airlines. two with roundtrip airfare for s to see the San Francisco SECOND: Two VIP ticket Our City: Our Lives, Our Gay Men’s Chorus’ Tales Of mistead Maupin and Ar Heroes, with featured guest ony. ph Sym ow the Bay Area Rainb see the SF GIANTS! THIRD: Two VIP tickets to
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Helgi Tomasson’s glorious Swan Lake returns! Love, sorcery, and betrayal are the themes in what is probably the best known and most beautiful story ballet of all time. Sublime dancing and splendid costumes are set against a sleek and modern set design in a production the New York Times called, “beautifully lyrical.”
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Yuan Yuan Tan // © Erik Tomasson
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On the Town
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39
LEATHER
PERSONALS Vol. 46 • No. 6 • February 11-17, 2016
The fab
Fauxnique Monique Jenkinson brings The F Word’ to Oasis by Jim Provenzano
W
hether performing at theatres in Europe, spacious museums, or nightclubs in South of Market, Monique Jenkinson, the preeminent faux queen known as Fauxnique, has been astounding audiences with her eloquent blend of dance, theatre and drag. Jenkinson brings her new show, The F Word, to Oasis February 17 through 21. See page 30 >>
Monique Jenkinson as Fauxnique
On the Tab
February 11-18 nday (Valentine’s celebrate love on Su ind love, lose love, chocolates, and me fancy or cheap so y Bu . n’t do or Day), ncing in a club, or ious calories by da nues burn off those delic for your favorite ve do show some love en op are s ard Aw es don’t. But definitely th annual Besti six r Ou s. rs, ep ba pe ite life or and night te for your fav line and in print. Vo at e on g, lin tin on vo or t ur llo yo for print ba htlife events with a performers and nig ies2016. Listings begin on page www.ebar.com/best 34>> the love parade… th And now, on wi
F
Sat 13 FBFE
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30 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
Left to Right: Monique Jenkinson as Fauxnique in Faux Real; Fauxnique in violet and a bustier; Monique Jenkinson at the Afterglow Festival in Provincetown.
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The fab Fauxnique
From page 29
In a phone interview last week, Jenkinson explained the themes in her new show. “The F is for Fauxnique and for feminism,” she said. “Over the years I’ve come to realize, in all of my work, none of it has been about feminism, but it is feminism. I’ve always been a feminist, but never set out to make a feminist statement by doing drag. But cumulatively, I realized it always has been and is about feminism. I wanted to just label it. People are talking about it seriously. Celebrities are proclaming themselves to be feminists.” Jenkinson discussed how drag, usually performed by men, and considered by some to be a parody of women, is not necessarily making fun of them, but skewering antiquated conceptions of gender. “Drag has always been, for me, a reclaiming of the performance of femininity. Drag queens can perform and women can perform femininity.” Jenkinson’s work reflects this evolution of such performance art, be it in a nightclub, theatre or museum. Some might say she’s advanced that evolution as well. “We’ve sort of dismantled the idea that drag is ‘female impersonation,’ and that women doing drag is just as much of a performance as men doing drag.”
Fresh, Faux, Real
Such understanding wasn’t as frequently shared in the drag world before Jenkinson became Fauxnique. Raised in Colorado, Jenkinson started in ballet, where she garnered character roles in local productions of The Nutcracker. She also studied and performed at a summer theatre program at Northwestern University (where she met her husband, Mark Kate), and at Bennington College in Vermont, where she studies literature and contemporary dance. After Jenkinson’s move to San Francisco in the early 1990s, the local dance scene did not appeal as much as the then-Tuesday night Trannyshack shows at The Stud. Jenkinson became a fan for a few years before daring to perform herself, at first under the name Glory Holesome. Her acts, like the best of the multiSee page 31 >>
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Read more online at www.ebar.com
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 31
Top to Bottom: Monique Jenkinson performing on at San Francisco City Hall Rotunda; Monique Jenkinson’s 2003 Miss Trannyshack performance; Fauxnique en pointe in Faux Real.
Art on Stage
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The fab Fauxnique
From page 30
layed cultural and sexual satires of the peak Trannyshack years, combined her dance talents with clever literary and cultural references. One act blended suicidal writers Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton and Virginia Woolf. But unlike many others, her dance and theatre technique furthered the genre into multi-layered performance art. By 2003, Jenkinson renamed her persona Fauxnique, “an extention of myself,” she said. Her triumphant performance at the Miss Trannyshack pageant, held at City Nights, included an en pointe dance set to Elton John’s “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” and her transformation from caterpillar to cocoon to butterfly with giant sheer-fabric wings (see a video here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=P5mDAWXT2RU)
Since then, Jenkinson has flown to Europe for site-specific performances, has had residencies with several arts groups, and evolved even more nuanced iterations of her stage persona, while still occasionally performing in nightclubs with a bit of risqué ribaldry. Locally, she’s also been a resident at the de Young Museum, at CounterPulse, and performed at Berkeley’s Shotgun Players Theatre Festival, and elsewhere at New York City’s historic Judson Church, considered the home of the postmodern dance and performance era, and many other venues. Her costumes (magazine-constructed skirts, gossamer wings, giant stilletto heels), props (the often-present vanity makeup table and mirror) and music (Morrisey to Kate Bush to 1930s French songs) add to the look and style of an artist capable of always pushing boundaries. Jenkinson shared her most recent show, Faux Real, at Oasis in May. A blend of autobiographical moments and theatrical framing, she continued her exploration of the multiple layers of ‘performing’ as a woman. The appeal of Jenkinson’s work is not always as visible as her extended eyelashes or leg extensions, but to the symbolic and structural intent of her art. “I’m coming from a place of nonessentialism. It counters gender essentalism, which assumes such a thing as a woman and a man. The world tends to be stuck in binary gender thinking. There is a lack of understanding, but our culture is changing.” We discussed the various ups and downs of broader reactions to changing gender identity, from Caitlyn Jenner to bathroom bills introduced by trans-phobic conservative politicians. Jenkinson said, “Sometimes I think I’m out of my depth because I can’t speak for trans women. But I’m coming from an understanding of gender as fluid.”
All of this, Jenkinson said, “allows me the right to be a drag queen.” She referenced a few instances of misogyny in the drag world, even years after her Trannyshack crowning back in 2003. But don’t expect polemics or social justice lectures at a Fauxnique show. These issues are a foundation, and part of why her shows matter and continue to entertain. “It’s a drag show,” she said. “Comedy and drag and irreverent performance have a powerful way to present serious issues.”
Jewel in the Crown
Being crowned Miss Trannyshack more than a decade ago wasn’t a pivotal moment in Jenkinson’s career. “I’ve always gone back and forth,” she said. “I do stuff in clubs and then museums, and then theatres. It’s always been sort of simultaneous. But of course, when I’m working on a big project, I might not go out or be seen as Fauxnique. But, yeah, it’s part of my practice. Discovering drag at the clubs introduced a new realm of possibility in my work. It’s inspiring. I knew I kind of wanted it, and it wasn’t necessarily strategic, but more a rich experience. I enjoyed doing it. The crowds were amazing. In dance, you’re really happy if there are 35 people there. In clubs, I’m performing for 200 people or more, to enthusiastic crowds, so that’s always great.” Jenkinson said she’s looking forward to returning to Oasis’ “little jewel box stage,” for The F Word. “Some of the pieces will be a bit of Faux Real, so you’ll get to see some old favorites, and new material.” Comfortable on a small stage as she is in an expansive museum lobby, or even performing on the rotunda steps at San Francisco’s City Hall with a giant fabric train on her gown, Jenkinson mentioned the elastic design of her varying performances. “Mostly when we think about making performance, we think of a proscenium situation. I try to consider the space where I’m performing and make it for that space. I think about sight lines.” She discussed one of her pet peeves of watching performances in more open spaces that assume an invisible proscenium. She discussed “working the room” at gigs where anything from a runway to a piano
Darren Akenbauer
F is for Fauxnique, among other things.
or waiters serving food could alter her performance. Jenkinson’s had a chance to stretch the confines of her new show. Last year, Jenkinson performed The F Word in New York City, at The Afterglow Festival in Provincetown, and at The Hackney Attic in London. She’s made adjustments along the way. “The idea is to be able to travel with the work,” she said, “from a theatre to a tiny club. I think of my drag work as dance work, learning to adjust to a new space, be it an expanded or
condensed version. It’s exciting to be resourceful and scrappy, and use what you have to make what you’re doing for an audience in weird situations.” Jenkinson finished our interview with a witty alliterative descriptor, “It’s Fauxnique’s Fosse fun filter on feminism.” And a must-see for fans.▼ Monique Jenkinson/Fauxnique performs ‘The F Word’ at Oasis, February 17- 20. $25. 7pm. 298 11th St. www.fauxnique.net www.sfoasis.com
Serving the LGBT communities since 1971
32 • BAY AREA REPORTER • February 11-17, 2016
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Members of the Imperial Court at the recent San Diego celebrations.
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ho knew that the American Conservatory Theatre had an aggressive LGBT Community outreach event for 15 years? Well, we joined their most recent one last week, first at a cocktail reception in the Penthouse of Hotel Adagio, on the dapper arm of Richard Sablatura. We didn’t know many there, but were welcomed regally. On the outdoor terrace with sweeping City views, we ran into A.C.T. Artistic Director Carey Perloff, ever-bubbly and enthusiastic about that night’s performance and those around the corner. It sounds like The Unfortunates at their new Strand Theatre, February 3-April 10, is not to be missed! We indulged in a quick Nespresso with David Walovich before dashing to the Geary Theatre a block away, catching sight along the way of Susan Leal & Susan Hirsch, on their way to the same performance. What a lucky reunion. We cannot say enough about Satchmo at the Waldorf. Our only
regret is that we saw this show too far into its run to promote it more widely. John Douglas Thompson thoroughly inhabits the character of Louis Armstrong, embracing his passions and his foibles, while revealing the extraordinary segregation in the entertainment world that surrounds him. In ninety minutes without intermission, we were confronted with racial injustice, artistic struggle, unjust stereotypes, performance anxiety, capitalist greed, Mafia intrusion, and more with a few genuine laughs along the way. Afterwards, we compared notes with others in the basement cafe while sampling desserts by Tout Sweet chef Yigit Pura.
Wilkes remembered
In the esteemed company of Reigning Emperor Kevin Lisle, we attended the grand funeral of San Francisco gentleman Wilkes Bashford at Grace Cathedral, awash
Top Left: M.F.A. students at American Conservatory Theatre perform songs at A.C.T.’s box office before a recent night of Satchmo at the Waldorf. Top Right: John Douglas Thompson as Louis Armstrong in Satchmo at the Waldorf. Bottom Left: The wellattended memorial for Wilkes Bashford at Grace Cathedral. Bottom Right: The late Wilkes Bashford with a friend at The Castro Theatre in 2104.
in memories of past ceremonies there for Herb Caen, Dame Bella Farrow, and Jose Sarria. The glorious setting, heartfelt speeches, and incredible turnout were everything this consummate San Franciscan deserved, overseen by the Right Reverend Marc Handley Andrus, Bishop of California. Speakers included San Francisco Chief of Protocol Charlotte Shultz, California Attorney General Kamala Harris, retail partner Tyler Mitchell, menswear designer Alexander Julian, and Mayor Willie Brown, each revealing touching personal stories of their time as friends. The Grace Cathedral Men & Boys’ Choir provided musical support, Paula West, noticeably moved, sang beautifully, and Renee Lubin of Beach Blanket Babylon rallied the assembled with her See page 33 >>
Steven Underhill
WEDDINGS, HEADSHOTS, PORTRAITS
Transitions Imperial Court 51 and more events
A.C.T.
PHOTOGRAPHY
415 370 7152
Charles Erickson
Steven Underhill
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Read more online at www.ebar.com
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 33
Real Men Real Hookups Gareth Gooch
Donna Sachet (above) and a gambling table at the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus’ Casino fundraiser at Oasis.
<<
On the Town
From page 32
stirring rendition of the song “San Francisco.” Among the attendees were a mix of people that would have made Wilkes proud, including Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, State Senator Mark Leno, Mayor Ed Lee, Charlie Zukow, Lewis Sykes, Doug Waggener, Veronica LeBeau, John Rosin, Victor Vargas, Ken Gorczyca, Janet Reilly, Ann Getty, Bahya Murad, Mark Calvano, Tom Horn, Gina Moscone, Dede Wilsey, Denise Hale, Kaushik Roy, and John Lipp. As the service ended, the invited found their way through insistent rain to The Fairmont Hotel where a reception awaited in the Venetian Room. Large photo reproductions of Wilkes and friends sat on easels around the room, stimulating conversation from most and somber
reflection in others. After the death of Wilkes Bashford, San Francisco seems a bit more ragged, a little less dashing, and considerably sadder. The SF Gay Men’s Chorus hosted a casino night with cabaret at Oasis last Saturday and the room buzzed with excitement! Let’s turn our attention to the upcoming weekend, including Valentines’ Day on Sunday. How will you celebrate? The Lesbian/Gay Chorus of San Francisco offers a particularly resonantly themed concert with their 13th annual Love Bites: Love is a 4-Letter Word, Saturday and Sunday at 4PM and Monday at 7PM at Martuni’s, 4 Valencia St. at Market. According to publicity, this is “the nation’s oldest mixed queer choir” and always delivers a delightful musical experience, generously injected with humor.▼
Imperial Coronation Schedule
Feb. 24
In Town Show @ Beaux Local talent performs for the Reigning Monarchs. No cover. 6pm-9pm. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Feb. 25 Monarchs Anniversary Anniversary @ 440 Castro Empress Marlena hosts those celebrating special anniversaries. 7pm-9pm. 440 Castro St. www.440castro.com
Feb. 26 Out of Town Show @ Hard Rock Café The best entertainers from visiting courts perform, followed by a bus bar crawl. $25. 6pm-9pm. Pier 39. www.hardrock.com/cafes/ san-francisco/
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Feb. 27 Coronation 51, A Space Odyssey @ SF Design Center Emperor Kevin Lisle and Empress Khmera Rouge entertain, distribute funds, and step down. Newly elected Monarchs will be announced at this glamorous ceremony. Formal attire with a space theme encouraged. $65. Doors 5pm. Event 6pm. 101 Henry Adams St. www.sfdesigncenter.com
Feb. 28 Founder Tribute Pilgrimage @ Colma Cemetery Court members and fans visit the gravesite of Court Founder Jose Sarria, and honor the interment of Emperor I Marcus Hernandez’s ashes, with members of the Gay & Lesbian Freedom Band, color guard, and revelry. Buses depart 7am from the Holiday Inn, 50 8th St., 7:30am from Lookout, 16th at Market & Noe.
with promo code:
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*Offer expires 30th June 2016.
I am the future of the LGBT community. I’m gay. I’m 55. I’ve been out to my family for twenty years. I married a wonderful woman six years ago, and we adopted a baby girl from Vietnam. My family is everything to me. That’s why I’m an avid follower of LGBT rights. Not just marriage, either. I want to make sure that I can travel safely, enjoy my retirement and have my child benefit from my life’s work. I’m the future of the LGBT community. And I read about that future every morning on my work laptop. Because that’s where I want it to be.
Feb. 28 Victory Brunch @ Holiday Inn New Monarchs are celebrated at a sit-down brunch. $35. 11am, 50 8th St. For more info, visit: www.imperialcouncilsf.org
The person depicted here is a model. Their image is being used for illustrative purposes only.
<< On the Tab
34 • BAY AREA REPORTER • January 28-February 3, 2016
El Mundo @ Empire Ballroom
Sat 13 Pearl at Mother @ Oasis
The new weekly Latin night at the Civic Center renovated nightclub features drag shows, gogo guys and gals, and DJed grooves. 9pm-3am. 555 Golden Gate. www.theempireroomsf.com
Red Hots Burlesque @ Beatbox The saucy women’s burlesque show hosted by Dottie Lux. $10. 7pm-10pm. 314 11th St. www.beatboxsf.com
Sheena Rose @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge The frequent performer at the intimate bar’s drag shows premieres her new single, “Two of Hearts.” 10pm. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com
Some Thing @ The Stud
Thu 11
Ain’t Mama’s Drag @ Balancoire Weekly drag queen and drag king show hosted by Cruzin d’Loo. 8pm10pm. No cover. 2565 Mission St. www.balancoiresf.com
Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi The musical comedy revue celebrates its 40th year with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs; now with new characters lile Bernie Sanders and Sia. $25-$160. Beer/wine served; cash only; 21+, except where noted. 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com
Bulge @ Powerhouse Grace Towers hosts the fun sexy night. $100 cash prize for best bulge. $5-$10 benefits Groundswell Institute, the queer retreat camp. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com
Kingdom @ GLBT History Museum Benefit performance fundraiser for the upcoming drag king exhibit, with Momma’s Boyz. Drag king attire encouraged. Reception 7pm, show 8pm. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org
Nightlife @ California Academy of Sciences Themed event nights at the fascinating nature museum, with DJed dancing, cocktails, fish, frogs, food and fun. Feb. 11: Creature Crush Nightlife, with music by MOM DJs, crafts include making liquid-marbled valentines, demos, talks, music and more. Feb. 18: Noise Pop includes live acts Gardens & Villa, Charlie Hilton, and a DJ set by Damon Eliza Palermo. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
Paula West @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko The acclaimed jazz vocalist returns for another extended residency at the upscale intimate cabaret. $40-$60 ($20 food/drink min.) 8pm. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm (also Feb 14, 7pm; no show Feb 28). Thru March 6. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 663-1063. www.ticketweb.com
Rock Fag @ Hole in the Wall Enjoy hard rock and punk music from DJ Don Baird at the wonderfully divey SoMa bar. 7pm-2am. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com
Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Disco guru DJ Bus Station John spins grooves at the intimate retro music night. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com
The Vaudevillians @ Oasis Jinkx Monsoon ( RuPaul’s Drag Race winner) and costar-composer Major Scales perform Bringing Up Baby, their musical satire show of a pair of hilariously bitter entertainers. $ Feb 9 & 11 at 7pm & 9pm. Feb. 10, 12, 13 at 7pm. 298 11th St. www.sfoasis.com
Fri 12
Armond Rizzo, Drew Sebastian @ Nob Hill Theatre The little hot porn pup with a big talent performs solo (8pm) and live sex shows with Sebastian (10pm). $25. Also Feb 13. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Boy Bar @ The Cafe Gus Presents’ weekly dance night, with DJ Kid Sysko, cute gogos and $2 beer (before 10pm). 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Lauren Mayer & Scott Grinthal @ Hotel Rex The cabaret couple perform Yes, Dear 2.0, their offbeat witty music show. Cocktails and small plates available. $30-$50. 8pm. 561 Sutter St. www.societycabaret.com
Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland Lulu Ramirez hosts the drag show and dance night, with Mitzy Lee and Jacqueline Aguilar La Gata; gogo guys, drink special. $6 before 10:30pm. Til 3am. 2111 Franklin St., Oakland. www.club21oakland.com
Mica Sigourney and pals’ weekly offbeat drag performance night. $7. 10pm-3am. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com
Sat 13 Birthday Bash @ Brewcade
The video games and micorbrew bar celebrates its first year. All games on free play 2pm-8pm. Hot dog pop-up Let’s Be Frank, ice cream-y treats by Shakedown SF. 3pm-8pm. Free popcorn. 2200-B Market St. www.brewcadesf.com
Mother @ Oasis Heklina’s weekly drag show night with different themes, always outrageously hilarious. Feb. 13: RuPaul’s Drag Race “Flazeda” finalist Pearl. $15. 10pm-2am. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com
Pound Puppy @ SF Eagle Juanita More! and CarrieOnDisco are the guest DJs at the popular, fun, cruisy monthly dance and night’s Valentine’s Day Eve-themed event. $10. 9:30pm-2am. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com
Saturgay @ Qbar Stanley Frank spins house dance remixes at the intimate Castro dance bar. $3. 9pm-2am (weekly beer bust 2pm-9pm). 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com
Sugar @ The Cafe Dance, drink, cruise at the Castro club. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum
Writers With Drinks @ The Make Out Room
Thu 11 Momma’s Boyz at Kingdom @ GLBT History Museum
Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun
Charlie Jane Anders MCs the literarymeets-booze fun night, with Diane Cook, Pagan Kennedy, Judy Budnitz, Meredith Maran and Tongo EisenMartin. $5-$20. 7:30pm. 3225 22nd St. www.makeoutroom.com
Sun 14
The popular video bar ends each work week with gogo guys (starting at 9pm) and drink specials. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Galilea hosts the weekly “old school drag show” with guest performers and DJ Jack Rojo, and a special Christmas night show. $4. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. www.clubOMGsf.com
The Lesbian & Gay Chorus of San Francisco performs their annual funny cabaret show about Valentine’s Day and its discontents, this time titled Love is a 4-Letter Word. $15. 4pm. Also Feb 14, 4pm, and Feb 15, 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.lgcsf.org www.martunis.ypguides.net
DJs Lucky, Paul, and Phengren Osward spin 60s soul 45s. $5-$10 ($5 off in semi-formal attire). 10pm-2am. 647 Valencia St. 552-7788. www.elbo.com
Superhero-themed dance night with DJs Sala Zar, Scott Shepard, Pumpkin Spice, and gogo hunks; skimpy mutant costumes welcome. $10. 10pm-2am. 298 11th St. www.sfoasis.com
Ladies of San Francisco @ Club OMG
Love Bites @ Martuni’s
Soul Party @ Elbo Room
Force @ Oasis
DH Haute Toddy’s weekly electro-pop night with hotty gogos. $3. 9pm-2am (happy hour 4pm-9pm). 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com
Radar Productions’ queer grrl tea dance, with proceeds benefiting Sister Spit Tour, with spoken word from Jezebel Delilah X, Julia Serano, Nikki Darling, Juliana Delgado Lopera, Cassie J. Sneider, Virgie Tovar, and Maisha Z. Johnson; plus, Lesbian Speed Dating. $10-$20. 5pm-9pm. 19 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.radarproductions.org www.oaklandera.com/era
Brunch, booze, sass and grooves, with the Mom DJs, Motown sounds, and soul food. 11am-4pm. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com
Valerie Branch’s weekly comedy night, where she embodies her faux queen character Pia Messing for some offbeat wit, along with guest performers. $5. 8pm-10pm. 2565 Mission St. www.balancoiresf.com
Hard Fridays @ Qbar
Hey Girl, Hey @ ERA Art Bar
Soul Delicious @ Lookout
Comedy Noir @ Balancoire
The family-friendly night events returns, with exhibit tours, dancing, food, drinks, and live music. $7-$15. 5pm-9pm. 1000 Oak St. www.museumca.org
▼
Manimal @ Beaux Gogo-tastic dance night starts off your weekend. $5. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Midnight Show @ Divas Weekly drag shows at the last transgender-friendly bar in the Polk; with hosts Victoria Secret, Alexis Miranda and several performers. Also Saturdays. $10. 11pm. 1081 Polk St. www.divassf.com
Sun 14 Aphrodisiacs of the Tropics @ Conservatory of Flowers
La Bota Loca @ Club 21, Oakland Latin, hip hop and Electro music night. $5-$25. 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St., Oakland. www.club21oakland.com
Club Rimshot @ Club BNB, Oakland Sampson McCormick hosts a special pre-Super Bowl night, with TSD, Blatino Oasis studs and more, at the weekly hip hop and R&B night. 8-$15. 9pm to 4am. 2120 Broadway. (510) 759-7340. www.club-bnb.com
AIDS Housing Alliance Benefit @ The Edge Imperial Court candidate Emma Peel hosts a beer/beverage bust for the local nonprofit, with raffles, Jell-O shots and some V-Day kink. 4pm-7pm. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com
Aphrodisiacs of the Tropics @ Conservatory of Flowers Survey the florid floral displays and plants in the beautiful greenhouse at a romantic party with a free glass of champagne. 21+. $20, $35 for 2 (advance) 5:30pm-8pm. 100 JFK Drive, Golden Gate Park. 831-2090. www.conservatoryofflowers.org
Beer Bust @ SF Eagle The classic leather bar’s most popular Sunday daytime event in town draws the menfolk. Beer bust donations benefit local nonprofits (Check the website for a list of recipients). 3pm6pm. Now also on Saturdays. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com
Big Top @ Beaux The fun Castro nightclub, with hot local DJs and sexy gogo guys and gals. $5. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.Beauxsf.com
Domingo De Escandal @ Club OMG Weekly Latin night with drag shows hosted by Vicky Jimenez and DJ Luis. 7pm-2am. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com
▼
On the Tab>>
January 28-February 3, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 35
Fri 12 Force @ Oasis
Hysteria @ Martuni’s Irene Tu and Jessica Sele cohost the comedy open mic night for women and queers. No cover. 6pm-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St.
I Want to Believe @ Oasis
FREE TO LISTEN AND REPLY TO ADS Free Code: Reporter
Watch new X-Files episodes, enjoy X-Files-themed drag acts and trivia, hosted by Linty and Mannequin. $3. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com
Karaoke Night @ SF Eagle Sing along, with guest host Nick Radford. 8pm-12am. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com
Mahogany Mondays @ Midnight Sun
Drags, Hags & Fags @ Club OMG
Sunsation Sundays, Pulse @ Oasis
Hella Gay Comedy presents a comedy variety show with Tammy Powers, Morgan, Cassandra Gorgeous, Alyssa Westerlund, Jesus U. BettaWork, Glamis Rory, Rebecca Arthur, Ginorma Desmond and Justin Lucas; Nasty Ass Bitch MCs. $15. 7pm. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com
Ky Martinez and Mohammad Vahidy’s T-dance, with DJs Riley Patrick, Guy Ruben and Brian Kent. $7. 3pm-9pm. Merges with Pulse, 6pm-12am. $15. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com
Femme, Xtravaganza @ Balancoire Weekly live music shows with various acts, along with brunch, mimosas, champagne and more, at the stylish nightclub and restaurant; shows at 12:30pm, 1:30pm and 2:45pm. After that, T-Dance drag shows at 7pm, 10pm and 11pm. 2565 Mission St. at 21st. 920-0577. www.balancoiresf.com
GlamaZone @ The Cafe Pollo del Mar’s weekly drag show takes on different themes with a comic edge. 8:30-11:30pm. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Mon 15
Drag Mondays @ The Cafe Mahlae Balenciaga and DJ Kidd Sysko’s weekly drag and dance night, 2014’s last of the year. 9pm-1am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Epic Karaoke @ White Horse, Oakland Mondays and Tuesdays popular weekly sing-along night. No cover. 8:30pm1am. 6551 Telegraph Ave, (510) 6523820. www.whitehorsebar.com
Honey Mahogany’s weekly drag and musical talent show starts around 10pm. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Monday Musicals @ The Edge Sing along at the popular musical theatre night; also Wednesdays. 7pm2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com
No No Bingo @ Virgil’s Sea Room
San Jose:
www.megamates.com 18+
Weekly dance night, with Jocques, DJs Tori, Twistmix and Andre. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com
Noche De Amor @ Club 21, Oakland
Tue 16 Block Party @ Midnight Sun
Sun 14
Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Vanessa Bousay @ Martuni’s
Cock Shot @ Beaux Shot specials and adult Bingo games, with DJs Chad Bays and Riley Patrick, at the new weekly night. No cover. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Crotch Heat @ Make-Out Room
Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room Gaymer Meetup @ Brewcade The weekly LGBT video game enthusiast night includes big-screen games and signature beers, with a new remodeled layout, including an outdoor patio. No cover. 7pm-11pm. 2200 Market St. www.brewcadesf.com
Steven Underhill
Donna Sachet hosts the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show, now celebrating its tenth anniversary. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.starlightroomsf.com
Oakland:
(510) 343-1122 (408) 514-1111
Opulence @ Beaux
Strip down to your skivvies at the popular men’s night. 9pm-2am. 440 Castro St. 621-8732. www.the440.com
The cabaret drag chanteuse performs Queen of Hearts, her Valentine’s Day special cabaret show, with Steven Satyricon and pianist Chris Winslow. $15. 7pm. 4 Valencia St.
(415) 430-1199
Mica Sigourney and Tom Temprano cohost the wacky weekly game night at the cool Mission bar. 8pm. 3152 Mission St. www.virgilssf.com
Enjoy the weekly jock-ular fun, with DJed dance music at sports team fundraisers. 12pm-1am. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com
Vanessa Bousay @ Martuni’s
San Francisco:
Underwear Night @ 440
Jock @ The Lookout
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Jenni Rivera, Gia Farré, gogo guys and gals, and Latin House music with DJ Frisko Eddy. $10$20. 10pm-2am. 2111 Franklin St. Oakland. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com
FIND REAL GAY MEN NEAR YOU
The Write Club SF presents Baruch Porras-Hernandez hosting a night of battling readings and stories about sex, with Julian Shendelman, Na’amen Tilahun, Mandy Hu, Zoe Young, Kay Nilsson and Damian Ledbetter. Audience chooses the winner whose charity gets cash. $5$15. 8pm. DJed tunes afterward. 3225 22nd St. www.makeoutroom.com
Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One-drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com
Gaymer Night @ Eagle Gay gaming fun on the bar’s big screen TVs. Have a nerdgasm and a beer with your pals. 8pm. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com
Meow Mix @ The Stud
Sat 13 Birthday Bash @ Brewcade
The weekly themed variety cabaret showcases new and unusual talents; MC Ferosha Titties. $3-$7. Show at 11pm. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com
See page 36 >>
EXPLORE THE GAY WORLD
<< On the Tab
36 • BAY AREA REPORTER • January 28-February 3, 2016
<<
On the Tab
Retro Night @ 440 Castro
Una Noche @ Club BnB, Oakland
Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre
Jim Hopkins plays classic pop oldies, with vintage music videos. 9pm-2am. 44 Castro St. www.the440.com
Strip down as the strippers also take it all off. $20. 9pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Switch @ Q Bar
Vicky Jimenez’ drag show and contest; Latin music all night. 9pm-2am. 2120 Broadway. (510) 759-7340. www.club-bnb.com
From page 35
OutLoud @ Oasis Joshua Grannell (Peaches Christ) hosts the new monthly storytelling series, this time themed Repulsion, with Broke-Ass Stuart, Deena Davenport, Brontez Purnell, Mary Van Note, Jef Valentine and Maximillian Guglielmelli, $10. 7:30pm. Fez Room, 298 11th St. www.sfoasis.com
Weekly women’s night at the stylish intimate bar. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com
Trivia Night @ Hi Tops Play the trivia game at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com
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Underwear Night @ Club OMG Weekly underwear night includes free clothes check, and drink specials. $4. 10pm-2am. Preceded by Open Mic Comedy, 7pm, no cover. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com
Wed 17
Wed 17 Rebel Kings’ Drag for a Cause @ White Horse Bar
Bedlam @ Beaux
New weekly event with DJs Haute Toddy, Guy Ruben, Mercedez Munro and Abominatrix. Wet T-shirt/jock contest at 11pm. $5-$10. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Thu 18
Bone @ Powerhouse
The Oscar party nonprofit hosts a VIP cocktail, wine, food and live music reception and Academy Award warm-up at the luxury car dealership. Admission proceeds benefit several local nonprofits. Get a free Lyft ride to and from the event! $20. 6:30pm. 500 8th St. www.academyoffriends.org
New weekly punk-alternative music night hosted by Uel Renteria and Johnny Rockitt. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com
Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the popular sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com
B.P.M. @ Club BnB, Oakland Olga T and Shugga Shay’s weekly queer women and men’s R&B hip hop and soul night, at the club’s new location. No cover. 8pm-2am. 2120 Broadway, Oakland. www.bench-and-bar.com
Drag for a Cause @ The White Horse Bar Second annual drag (king and queen) show, hosted by Rebel Kings, benefitting the Pacific Center, with lots of fun raffle prizes. $10. 8pm doors, 9:30pm show. 6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. www.whitehorsebar.com
Fauxnique @ Oasis Monique Jenkinson, the acclaimed faux queen dancer-performer, brings her new show, The F Word, about high femme feminism and Fosse-esque moves, to the nightclub. See feature in this issue. $25. 7pm thru Feb. 20. 298 11th St. www.fauxnique.net www.sfoasis.com
Latin Drag Night @ Club OMG Weekly Latin night with drag shows hosted by Vicky Jimenez. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com
Man Francisco @ Oasis The sexy, funny weekly male burlesque show returns; choreographed by Christopher James Dunn, with Colin, Darius, Thomas and Jon. Mr Pam MCs. $20. 2-drink min. 9:30pm. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 7953180. www.sfoasis.com
Miss Kitty’s Trivia Night @ Wild Side West The weekly fun night at the Bernal Heights bar includes prizes, hosted by Kitty Tapata. No cover. 7pm-10pm. 424 Cortland St. 647-3099. www. wildsidewest.com
Open Mic/Comedy @ SF Eagle Kollin Holts hosts the weekly comedy and open mic talent night. 6pm-8pm. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com
Pussy Party @ Beaux Ladies night at the Castro dance club. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Academy of Friends @ Mercedez-Benz SF
Ain’t Mama’s Drag @ Balancoire Weekly drag queen and drag king show hosted by Cruzin d’Loo. 8pm10pm. No cover. 2565 Mission St. www.balancoiresf.com
Comedy Returns @ El Rio The fun monthly comedy night this time includes Diame Amos, Tom Ammiano, Francesca Fiorentini, Mary Carouba and host Lisa Geduldig. $7$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission st. at Precita. (800) 838-3006. www.elriosf.com
Funny Fun @ Club 21, Oakland Weekly LGBT and straight comedy night hosted by Dan Mires. $10. 8pm. 2111 Franklin St. Oakland. (510) 2689425. www.club21oakland.com
Gym Class @ Hi Tops Enjoy whiskey shots from jockstrapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular sports bar. 10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com
Maria Konner @ Martuni’s The Trans diva pianist-singer extraordinaire returns for her monthly cabaret show, with a 3-piece band, and guest trumpeter Patina De Copper. No cover. 6:30-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Mary Go Round @ Lookout Mercedez Munro and Holotta Tymes’ weekly drag show. $5. 10:30pm show. DJ Philip Grasso. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com
The Monster Show @ The Edge The weekly drag show with themed nights, gogo guys and hilarious fun. $5. 9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com
My So-Called Night @ Beaux Carnie Asada hosts a new weekly ‘90s-themed video, dancin’, drinkin’ night, with VJs Jorge Terez. Get down with your funky bunch, and enjoy 90cent drinks. ‘90s-themed attire and costume contest. No cover. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com
Nap’s Karaoke @ Virgil’s Sea Room Sing out loud at the weekly least judgmental karaoke in town, hosted by the former owner of the bar. No cover. 9pm. 3152 Mission St. 8292233. www.virgilssf.com
Picante @ The Cafe Lulu and DJ Marco’s Latin night with sexy gogo guys. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Queer Karaoke @ Club OMG Dana hosts the weekly singing night; unleash your inner American Idol. 8pm. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com
Sexitude @ Oasis D’Arcy Drollinger’s aerobic dance party gets you in shape for partying. Bring oyur Spanex and headbands. $10. 9pm. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com
Skate Night @ Church on 8 Wheels Groove on wheels at the former Sacred Heart Church-turned disco roller skate party space, hosted by John D. Miles, the “Godfather of Skate.” Also Wed, Thu, 7pm-10pm. Sat afternoon sessions 1pm-2:30pm and 3pm-5:30pm. $10. Kids 12 and under $5. Skate rentals $5. 554 Fillmore St at Fell. www.churchof8wheels.com
Throwback Thursdays @ Qbar Enjoy retro 80s soul, dance and pop classics with DJ Jorge Terez. No cover. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com
Thump @ White Horse, Oakland Weekly electro music night with DJ Matthew Baker and guests. 9pm-2am. 6551 Telegraph Ave, (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com
Thursday Night Live @ SF Eagle Music night with local and touring bands. $8. 9:30pm. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com
Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Disco guru DJ Bus Station John spins grooves at the intimate retro music night. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com Want your nightlife event listed? Email events@ebar.com, at least two weeks before your event. Event photos welcome.
So You Think You Can Gogo? @ Toad Hall The weekly dancing competition for gogo wannabes. 9pm. cash prizes, $2 well drinks (2 for 1 happy hour til 9pm). Show at 9pm. 4146 18th St. www.toadhallbar.com
Way Back @ Midnight Sun Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Wooden Nickel Wednesday @ 440 Buy a drink and get a wooden nickle good for another. 12pm-2am. 440 Castro St. 621-8732. www.the440.com
Thu 18 Diane Amos at Comedy Returns @ El Rio
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Read more online at www.ebar.com
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 37
Armond Rizzo Cupid Comes to the Nob Hill Theatre by Cornelius Washington
A
rmond Rizzo is one of the hottest men in porn; he does the work that keeps the industry fresh. With a killer sense of seduction and diversity, he shows that porn can be far-reaching in its scope and sizzle. His diminutive size hides a big talent as an accomplished and soughtafter bottom. And of course, the Nob Hill Theatre has him headlining for Valentine’s Day weekend. We thought that he was the perfect man to ask the big questions about love, sex, and passion. The man does not disappoint. Cornelius Washington: When gay marriage became legal, how did you feel? Do you think one day you would like to be married? Armond Rizzo: I was quite excited and thrilled. I love to see that our country is heading in the right direction of history. But I do have to admit that we still have a long way to go. Marriage is a great step to equality. How should we ask others to see us as equal when we bully and judge each other in the gay community? We must learn to accept each other before demanding straight people to respect us. To me, getting in the future the answer is simply yes, I would love to find the man of my dreams and share the rest of my life with him, a life of no worries if one or other got sick; and to be able to have the right to sit next to him in the hospital knowing that we both will be seen as a married couple with equal benefits as straight people. I honestly can’t wait for that moment to happen! There is a new movement called #pornkillslove to negate the porn industry. Do you have any thoughts or opinions? This is my first time I have heard of this ridicules movement. This movement sounds beyond redundant and very wrong. I feel like Grindr and all other social media apps that make finding sex a lot more easier have ruined love and passion. I feel like because of those social media apps, people have forgotten how to communicate and how to respect one another. The thrill of being able to talk face to face and meet someone out at the club or bar or coffee shop has vanished. It’s now is hard to trust anyone you date for fear of them cheating. Men are men and we crave sex. It’s who we are and it’s natural, but the sad part is that no one cares about anything else but quick hook-ups with no strings attached. To blame porn for the loss of love is downright wrong. I feel like porn has helped bring out fantasies that people once thought as bad thinking and wrongdoing. Porn allows people to live out their fantasies vicariously through porn stars. Why do you think porn is so prevalent, especially in gay culture? Gay porn is so prevalent simply because people need it. As a porn star, I constantly run into people who tell me that they live vicariously through me. They get off by watching me, but they don’t do what I do in real life and they’re happy with that. There are people at a certain age who are struggling to find love, and they enjoy watching porn. Porn makes people happy and helps them live their lives with satisfaction. I believe gay porn is not just important but needed in the world.
Armond Rizzo
What do you think is missing in gay porn? Diversity in the gay porn adult
industry. We live in a country where white people are into Asians, blacks, Latinos and vice versa, we live in a time where people don’t just want to see white-on-white porn. I am sorry but not every wants to see that. I believe people have fallen in love with me simply because I don’t stick to one race. I deliver hot passionate sex with every race and that is what people love. Have you ever developed feelings for a scene partner? Yes and no (LOL). It’s complicated, honestly. I’ve had scenes where before we shot we both wanted it to happen, so there was some connection beforehand. But it’s very rare to develop feelings for my scene partners, because to us it’s work. We go in and get the job done and move on. We all respect each other enough to try not to get feelings involved.
Describe your dream man. My dream man is tall, very handsome, with an incredibly light spirit; someone that makes me smile so easily. Someone that understands and respects my past, my present, and my future. Someone that makes me laugh. Someone that inspires me to be a better man every day and inspires me to be strong. The most romantic song is…? “Not a Bad Thing” by Justin Timberlake. This song is about a guy just pouring his heart out. He’s asking to be given a chance, because he promises to give it his all and to make you feel special every day. Justin Timberlake is not just sexy but an incredibly romantic guy who is an incredible artist. See page 38 >>
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Armond Rizzo in Hot House promotional stills and hanging out with Dylan Knight.
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Armond Rizzo
From page 37
Have you ever said ‘I love you,’ and then realized… Oops, I didn’t mean it? I think I said it once and it was a huge mistake. I didn’t realize I said it to a piece of shit guy that had no respect for me. I still regret it till this day. I›ve only said it once in my entire life. Besides my family, I have only said it by accident to one guy. What do you think is the most romantic language?
The most romantic language would definitely have to be French. They’re just so smooth with the way they talk. I never understand a word, but it turns me on just by hearing a guy talk French to me. What do you think is the number one mistake gay men make when pursuing love and/or a relationship? Rushing too fast into it. I’ve noticed how many guys move so fast that at the end they don’t even know each other that well. It’s sad that when they’re in a relationship
they’re finding all these flaws with one another and they act shocked! Take it slow and don’t rush into the stereotypical social media “in a relationship status.” Are you into social media? Do you do the apps? Yes, I do. I’m on Twitter @ArmondRizzoXXX and Facebook as Armond Rizzo. Quite a few gay couples go to the Nob Hill Theatre to see men perform. What will you do to give them a very special memory?
I definitely want to spice up their night so they can go home and have a hot night. So we will see. I already know that my stage partner and I are ready to let loose on stage and show you guys our attraction for one another. It’s our first time meeting so they’re getting a once in a lifetime performance!
guess I’m just waiting for the right guy who will change that for me.
Will you be doing anything special for Valentine’s Day? I am not a huge fan of Valentine’s Day, so I will probably just be spending the day traveling back to San Diego and probably sleeping. I
Armond Rizzo performs solo (8pm) and live sex shows with Drew Sebastian (10pm). $25. Feb 12 & 13. Nob Hill Theatre, 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Do you truly believe in love? I definitely do believe in love. The problem is finding it! But I am hopeful that one day he will come across my path so I can finally say ‘I love you!’▼
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Read more online at www.ebar.com
Shooting Stars
February 11-17, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 39
photos by steven underhill Super Bowl City & Hi Tops
I
t was a tale of two cities, literally. While the 50th Super Bowl took place in Santa Clara on February 7, football fans enjoyed visiting Super Bowl City in downtown San Francisco. While some enjoyed the fireworks and concerts, others protested the militarized security and lavish set-up ($5 million paid for by taxpayers in a specious back room deal) and focused on homelessness and the mayor’s callous tent city sweeps. While Hi Tops enjoyed the happy hour presence of former football player Michael Sam last Friday, and Golden State Warriors president Rick Welts, other businesses claimed a lack of tourist dollars. While many watched to see the Broncos defeat the Panthers, others merely wanted to see Lady Gaga’s amazing rendition of the National Anthem. While the rainbow “Believe in Love” at the half-time finale outraged rightwingers, others enjoyed Beyoncé’s Black Panthers and Black empowerment messages in her number, “Formation.” Yes, it was definitely a tale of two cities. More photo albums at www.facebook.com/lgbtsf. nightlife and at www.StevenUnderhill.com.
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For headshots, portraits or to arrange your wedding photos
call (415) 370-7152 or visit www.StevenUnderhill.com or email stevenunderhillphotos@gmail.com