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Vol. 43 • No. 49 • December 5-11, 2013

Honda sees Milk recalled 35 years later SF shooting suspect chance for remains ENDA yet at large by Matthew S. Bajko

espite the House leadership’s refusal to bring it up for a vote, a federal bill banning LGBT workplace discrimination isn’t dead yet in the eyes of a South Bay congressman. Cynthia Laird In an editorial Rep. Mike Honda board meeting last week with the Bay Area Reporter, Congressman Mike Honda (D-Campbell) said he remains hopeful about seeing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act pass out of the House prior to the midterm elections of 2014. “I don’t think it is a lost cause,” said Honda. “I have some hopes it could pass but it is not going to pass without some work.” Early last month the Senate passed the long stalled pro-LGBT legislation on a vote of 64-32, which Honda described as an “eyebrow raising surprise.” The first time the Senate voted in 1996, it failed to pass ENDA on a vote of 49-50. The legislation, which President Barack Obama has repeatedly pledged to sign into law, prohibits most employers with more than 15 employees from taking adverse employment actions against staffers or job applicants based on “sexual orientation” and “gender identity.” It does include exemptions for some employers based on the degree to which they are involved in religious activities. The bill is not as comprehensive as the original legislation introduced by the late Representative Bella Abzug in 1974. According to the Human Rights Campaign’s website, the legislation now known as ENDA was first introduced in 1994 and has been revised and reintroduced over the ensuing decades. The House adopted ENDA in 2007, but like the Senate version passed more than a decade earlier, it did not include gender identity and prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation only. After the Democratic-controlled House, led by then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (DSan Francisco), faced heated criticisms from transgender leaders and their allies for omitting gender-based protections, congressional leaders have sought to pass a fully inclusive version of ENDA. According to new research released in mid-November from UCLA’s Williams Institute, a majority of Americans in every U.S. congressional district support laws that protect against employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation such as ENDA. (The LGBT think tank reported there is no

See page 9 >>

by Seth Hemmelgarn

Peter Thoshinsky

drian Babbet holds an image of slain Supervisor Harvey Milk during the November 27 vigil in Harvey Milk Plaza that commemorated the 25th anniversary of Milk’s murder, along with the kill-

ing of then-Mayor George Moscone. The vigil, organized by local activists, put the spotlight on housing issues. For more on that candlelight vigil, along with a remembrance at City Hall, see story, page 6.

an Francisco police are still looking for the man suspected of fatally shooting Melquiesha “Mel” Warren, 23, outside a gay South of Market nightclub almost three weeks ago. Shortly after the inCourtesy SFPD cident, which occurred near Club OMG, 43 Michael Sione Sixth Street, police an- Green nounced they were looking for Michael Sione Green, 23, as the man who allegedly shot Warren and another woman. Green, whom police described as “extremely dangerous,” was last seen wearing a beard and long hair past his shoulders and has been described as Tongan. Superior Court records in San Mateo County, See page 21 >>

Bayview couple faces eviction

by Seth Hemmelgarn

couple living in San Francisco’s Bayview district is facing eviction from their home after the landlord said he wanted to move in, and then raised the rent $1,000. Their struggle highlights the fact that while much attention has been paid to apartment dwellers facing evictions, people in single-family homes may experience similar problems. Jeffery Lactaoen, 48, and Robert Brownstein, 44, who are domestic partners, received a 30-day notice to terminate tenancy August 30 in which landlord Shazhad Ahmed said his wife was coming from India and they planned to live in the home, which is in the 1100 block of Mendell Street. Ahmed’s brother Shazid Ahmed is also the couple’s landlord and signed the notice as well. Lactaoen, who’s living with HIV and is disabled, said he rejected the letter because it should have allowed for 60 days, rather than 30, and the notice didn’t mention relocation expenses, which are legally required. The Ahmeds rescinded the termination notice in a September 10 letter, saying, “Your tenancy remains in good standing.” However, the couple then received a September 18 notice from Daniel Bornstein, the Ahmeds’ attorney, that as of December 1 their rent would increase from $2,200 to $3,200 a month. The couple thinks the Ahmeds are retaliat-

Seth Hemmelgarn

Jeffery Lactaoen, left, and his partner, Robert Brownstein, holding Scruffy, hope to remain in their Bayview home.

ing because Lactaoen asserted his and Brownstein’s rights, and raising the rent in order to circumvent eviction laws and avoid paying relocation funds. The property is not covered by rent control laws. “I guess my landlord has found a way around having to pay us relocation costs and forcing us out by us not being able to pay that high of a rent,” said Lactaoen. Legal limits on rent increases don’t ap-

ply since it’s a single-family home. Lactaoen acknowledged the three bedroom house “is probably worth a lot more than $2,200” per month. Neither Shazhad Ahmed nor Bornstein responded to interview requests. Lactaoen noted there’s been heavy media coverage of people being evicted from their apartments in recent months as landlords seek to exploit the city’s tech boom to get higher rents or sell properties to developers. However, there’s been little about people having to leave single-family homes. “I get the impression a lot of people don’t want to pursue” working to keep their homes in these situations, said Brownstein, but “we urge other people to not back down.” The couple has been working with agencies including the San Francisco Rent Board, the San Francisco Tenants Union, and AIDS Legal Referral Panel to try to stay in the home, which they share with a dog and two cats. The onestory house has hardwood floors and walls covered with artwork and photos of friends. Lactaoen and Brownstein filed an “alleged wrongful eviction” report with the rent board November 22. On November 25, the agency issued a notice that it had received the report. The Ahmeds had seven days to respond to the rent board’s receipt notice. As of Tuesday, December 3, both Lactaoen and a rent board staffer said that neither the Ahmeds nor BornSee page 22 >>

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<< Community News

6 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Housing takes center stage at Milk-Moscone vigil by David-Elijah Nahmod

wo events in San Francisco marking the 35th anniversary of the murders of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone were attended by hundreds of people, many of whom urged leaders to address the city’s skyrocketing rents and upswing in evictions. Milk, who represented the Castro, and Moscone were gunned down in their City Hall offices by ex-supervisor Dan White. The November 27, 1978 killings shook the city. Members of the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club were joined in the Castro by supporters and others who used this year’s candlelight vigil to call for action on housing. Meanwhile, civic leaders held a remembrance ceremony on the steps of City Hall a few hours earlier. During the march to City Hall, housing advocates carried a banner that read Eviction=Death. “The message this year is housing, housing, housing,” said Brian Basinger, director of the AIDS Housing Alliance/San Francisco. “The housing crisis is critical. It’s the only conversation in town. The soul of the city is at stake. In light of the fact that nearly one-third of our homeless people are LGBTQ, we feel a moral responsibility to remain focused on what really matters: that every person in San Francisco have a roof over their head. “End LGBTQ homelessness now. Stop evictions now. Affordable housing now,” he added. At Harvey Milk Plaza, an enlarged photo of Milk was on display, surrounded by flowers and candles. Several attendees could be seen wiping away tears. Longtime activist Cleve Jones, a personal friend

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Rick Gerharter

Affordable housing and the rising number of evictions was the theme for this year’s November 27 vigil commemorating the 35th anniversary of the killing of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone.

of Milk’s, took to the stage and addressed the homeless issue. Jones shared the story of Jonathan Klein, the openly gay former owner of Now Voyager Travel. Klein committed suicide in April. Klein’s business partner, Peter Greene, previously told the Bay Area Reporter that Klein had battled depression. He also took a buyout after being threatened with an Ellis Act eviction. The state law allows landlords to evict tenants if they take the property off the rental market. “He told me that there was no place for him in San Francisco,” Jones told the crowd. “The next day he jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge.” Several speakers had critical words for gay District 8 Supervisor Scott Wiener. “I don’t want to bash anyone, but I have to say that the current supervisor in this district did a disservice to the memory of Harvey Milk by passing that legislation which criminalizes poor people by closing the parks,” said Tony Robles of Manilatown Heritage Foundation, speaking from the podium. “Supervisor Wiener, you were no Harvey Milk when you did that.” About a week before the vigil, a petition appeared at Change.org asking Wiener to stay away from the event. The petition, which claimed that Wiener supports conservative ideas, and is “the anti-Harvey,” received 174 signatures. Many of the signatures were from out of state, while a few were from overseas. Wiener attended both events, although politicians did not speak at the activists’ vigil. “I’ve attended the Milk-Moscone vigil for the past 10 years, including the years when it got quite small,” Wiener told the Bay Area Reporter beforehand. “It’s not for one part of the community, or one political clique, to the exclusion of others. I’ll be attending the vigil, as I have for years, to remember Harvey Milk and George Moscone, and to recommit myself to continue to work for our community.” The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence led the crowd in a chant of remembrance for past community members, “our weird kooks, writers, performers, and dreamers. They could never have afforded this neighborhood today,” the Sisters said. Not everyone was pleased with the politicizing of the vigil, feeling that it should have been solely about Milk’s legacy. “The chorus has been intimately connected to this horrific event as the candlelight vigil 35 years ago was the chorus’ first public performance,” said Timothy Seelig, artistic director of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. “It was our understanding that the event at Harvey

Milk Plaza was to be a remembrance of Harvey Milk’s life, not a political rally. Had we known, it would have affected our participation. Not because we are not deeply concerned about the issues raised, but because of our policy regarding participation in partisan events.” Another person declined to march down Market Street to City Hall. “Rather than talking about Harvey and his legacy, the event became a forum for people to foist their own agenda on the captive audience,” said Keith Folger. “I made my decision to not march down Market Street when one of the speakers decided to use his time at the mic to lambast Scott Wiener. I am disgusted that a vigil to remember the assassination of Harvey Milk and George Moscone was used to foist the anti-Wiener agenda on us.” Others simply wanted to move beyond the speeches. “The substance and tenor of what was said won’t get us any closer to the solution to the problem of high cost housing in San Francisco,” said Crispin Hollings, who lives up the street from Milk Plaza. “If we’re really going to get serious about tackling housing, we must stop marginalizing those whose ideas are not our own. Let’s move beyond the rhetoric of Wednesday night and get serious about working together on housing.” Still others pointed out that reducing homelessness among LGBTs is of critical importance. “Housing is one of the most important issues in San Francisco right now,” said longtime housing activist Tommi Avicolli Mecca. “Right now, so many people are losing their apartments to greedy speculators, so many people are homeless and need housing, so many people, especially seniors, are living in fear of their place being sold to someone who will evict them. “It’s a crisis, and we as a community need to address it by helping to fight the evictions, demand more protections against speculators and investors, and reduce LGBT homelessness. It’s what Harvey would have done. No doubt about it.”

City Hall ceremony

A few hours before the activists’ vigil, political leaders gathered on the steps of City Hall to remember Milk and Moscone. Those on hand included Mayor Ed Lee, out state Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco), past and present members of the Board of Supervisors, and Stuart Milk, Harvey Milk’s gay nephew. They were joined by the Gay Men’s Chorus. Leno told of a 17-year-old girl who had never heard of Milk. “The only gay person she knew See page 22 >>

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<< Open Forum

8 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Volume 43, Number 49 December 5-11, 2013 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 ASSISTANT EDITORS Matthew S. Bajko Seth Hemmelgarn Jim Provenzano CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dan Aiello • Tavo Amador • Erin Blackwell Roger Brigham • Scott Brogan Victoria A. Brownworth • Philip Campbell Heather Cassell • Chuck Colbert Richard Dodds • Raymond Flournoy David Guarino • Peter Hernandez Liz Highleyman • Brandon Judell • John F. Karr Lisa Keen • Matthew Kennedy • David Lamble Michael McAllister • Michael McDonagh David-Elijah Nahmod • Elliot Owen Paul Parish • James Patterson • Lois Pearlman Tim Pfaff • Jim Piechota • Bob Roehr Philip Ruth • Donna Sachet • Adam Sandel Jason Serinus • Gregg Shapiro Gwendolyn Smith • Jim Stewart Ed Walsh • Sura Wood ART DIRECTION T. Scott King PRODUCTION/DESIGN Jay Cribas PHOTOGRAPHERS Danny Buskirk • Jane Philomen Cleland Rick Gerharter • Lydia Gonzales Rudy K. Lawidjaja • Steven Underhill Bill Wilson ILLUSTRATORS & CARTOONISTS Paul Berge Christine Smith ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION Colleen Small ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Scott Wazlowski – 415.359.2612 NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media – 212.242.6863

LEGAL COUNSEL Paul H. Melbostad, Esq.

Commitment to a cure

resident Barack Obama this week used World AIDS Day to announce that his administration will be redirecting $100 million toward a new initiative at the National Institutes of Health to advance research for an HIV cure. This is a welcome development among researchers and for people living with HIV/AIDS as well. “We’re going to redirect $100 million into this project to develop a new generation of therapies,” the president said during his remarks at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, according to a transcript. “Because the United States should be at the forefront of new discoveries into how to put HIV into long-term remission without requiring lifelong therapies – or, better yet, eliminate it completely.” In the last few years, there have been some scientific advances for an HIV cure. And while that milestone is likely years away, it’s worth noting that a commitment to cure research is a good investment that should be pursued. Attempts at an HIV vaccine have faltered to the point that we need to move on; cure research is that next frontier. A couple months ago, researchers presented the latest news in cure research here in San Francisco. Some media reports were over-exuberant and hyped some developments, contributing to a resurgence in optimism that, as we reported at the time, “is largely attributable to several ‘proof-of-concept’ cases showing that a functional cure – once deemed all but impossible – is in fact feasible.” Much of the media attention focused on Timothy Brown, a former San Francisco resident who has remained free of detectable HIV six years after receiving a bone marrow transplant to treat leukemia from a donor with a natural mutation that makes immune cells resistant to HIV entry. Brown’s case is clearly unique, but the medical findings have given researchers a new direction that might someday help many more people living with HIV/AIDS. But Brown is not alone. Researchers reported on other proof-of-concept cases, including a group of 14 people with HIV in France who started antiretroviral therapy within a few months after infection. They stopped treatment after four or five years and have not experienced

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In his remarks, the president also called for continuing the focus on “investments to communities that are still being hit hardest, including gay and bisexual men, African Americans, and Latinos.” To us, that means maintaining funds for HIV prevention and treatment, through various federal programs including the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act, which has seen decreases to cities like San Francisco as more of the money is directed to other regions like the South. Although this funding in general could all be negatively affected by sequestration cuts coming early next year. On the plus side, the implementation of the Affordable Care Act means that millions of insured people will be able to get tested free of charge, the president said, and Americans who are uninsured will soon have access to affordable health care coverage. Beginning in January, no American will be denied health insurance because of their HIV status. That’s a welcome development, but it’s dependent on the improved rollout of the ACA so that people can sign up for health plans. There are also inadequate funds for preventions services, although we would argue that HIV prevention messaging itself needs a massive makeover as men who

org/wiki/Same-sex_marr i a g e _ u n d e r _ Un i te d _ wo things I hope are States_tribal_jurisdictions) gone with the end of – that’s 34 percent of the this year (along with all the U.S. population – issuing hatred, greed, racism, and marriage licenses for sameruining the environment) sex couples. That didn’t are twerking and It Gets happen because we waited Better. Yes, It Gets Better, for it to get better. which started in September The military’s anti-gay 2010, was, at first, a very “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was nice gesture and message a policy of discrimination sending hope to LGBT and in the U.S. armed forces non-mainstream youth but from December 1993 until it’s devolved into a cliche – a September 2011. During useless, meaningless answer that time, 13,000 individuto give when what we really als who wanted to serve our Courtesy Kelly Rivera Hart mean is that the situation Kelly Rivera Hart country were discharged sucks but the best I have to under DADT. The politioffer is a cute little saying to cal power of military brass be a Band-Aid for your pain and anti-LGBT conservaand a thread of hope that things will change tives made this look like a very hard wall on their own. to knock down. Brave individuals When the AIDS pandemic hit us, did we like Dan Choi and Eric Alva could sit as our friends, coworkers, neighbors, have shrugged their shoulders and loved ones died around us and say to and said, “It gets better” and ourselves that “It gets better?” No, we stood waited for justice. But they stood up, spoke up, acted up, and fought back for and fought an injustice. Now, needed research and over and over for medialthough discrimination is not cines to treat us and keep us living longer. We completely wiped out from the didn’t then and we don’t now have the luxury military, same-sex couples can to assume that it gets better. even marry in the military and When couples decided to push for marhave the ceremony performed riage equality but authorities were refusing, by their chaplains. did they hang onto what looked like a remote A version of the Employment Non-Dishope that it would get better and go on living crimination Act has been brought up in Conin unrecognized, unprotected, and illegal regress in almost every year since 1994. And for lationships? No, we stood up and spoke out. 19 years, it’s been shot down. But brave leadWe made it better. And at this point gay, lesers and involved community activists everybian, and transgender people can marry in 15 where keep on fighting for what is right, the countries. There will soon to be 16 states, the right to work without the possibility of beDistrict of Columbia, and eight Native Amering discriminated against or fired because of ican tribal jurisdictions (http://en.wikipedia. something as simple as one’s sexual identity.

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Treatment, prevention

have sex with men continue to find the old recommendation of wearing condoms to be ineffective. It’s critical that people get tested to know their HIV status, and studies have shown that getting into treatment early is beneficial. But many are still reluctant to learn their status due to the stigma associated with being HIV-positive and aging with HIV. To that end, some local organizations recently started groups for men to talk about their hopes and fears as they grow older, and public service campaigns are specifically focused on reducing the stigma associated with HIV. Efforts on both fronts must continue.

Global action

The President’s Emergency Program for AIDS Relief, started by George W. Bush, continues to do great things. Earlier this year, Obama said, the program celebrated the one millionth baby born without HIV. There has also been a decline in new HIV infections and deaths from AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, he said. Compromising this success are draconian anti-gay laws in many African nations that put gay and bi men at risk. Think of what a cure would mean for people in those countries. This week Obama signed the PEPFAR Stewardship Oversight Act, to keep the program going. It may be a long ways off, but eventually, scientists will make discoveries that will lead to a cure. They need the resources to continue their work. It would be ideal if Obama, instead of redirecting funding, could find new resources for the NIH to bolster those efforts.t

Time to retire It Gets Better by Kelly Rivera Hart

BAY AREA REPORTER

viral rebound. However, as Dr. Steven Deeks with UCSF cautioned at the San Francisco forum, “One critical thing about all these [examples] is that they don’t pertain to a typical person with HIV.” The new research that Obama talked about this week may help find strategies to cure HIV, although as we’ve seen throughout the three decades of the epidemic, HIV is notoriously good at hiding, evading, and rebounding. HIV is, as Gladstone’s Warner Greene put it, “a little more complicated than we thought it was.”

After 20 years, should we just tell ourselves, “It gets better” and sit and wait for the world to accept us and respect us? We finally had the Senate pass an inclusive ENDA just last month. We cannot wait for it to get better. We must make it better. It’s time to retire the passive It Gets Better project and choose to Make It Better. It cannot and will not get better if we do not make it better. If we see bullying going on, step up and support laws and policies that have zero tolerance for bullying by students or teachers. Make it better. If we see work discrimination going on, speak out and push for laws that will end that. Make it better. If a neighbor is being attacked in some way, don’t just wish them well and turn away saying, “It gets better.” Stand beside them in the struggle. Make it better. When the disabled, elderly and lower income individuals among us are pushed out of our homes to make way for luxury apartments that fewer and fewer of us can afford, it’s time for us to make it better and stand for fair housing for all. And when the neighbor down the street is hungry or cold or sick, don’t just tell them it gets better as if that will fill their bellies or warm their limbs or cure their illnesses. We must open our hearts and reach out our hands to do the work to make it better. Gandhi said that we must be the change we wish to see in the world. He didn’t say tell others in pain to wait for a better world. It’s my prayer that in the coming year we will all commit to some level of changing the world around us for the better. In 2014, let’s all make it better. No more waiting. No more wondering. Make it better.t Kelly Rivera Hart is a longtime San Francisco housing rights and AIDS activist.

Politics>>

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 9

Mid-Market focus of film by Matthew S. Bajko

aving met line dancing at a weekly gay country western party, friends Robert Cortlandt and Dan Goldes have now partnered up to film the transformation taking place along San Francisco’s Mid-Market corridor. Since 2011 they have been documenting the changes along the once gruff and gritty thoroughfare into a new hub for arts groups, tech companies, and high-end housing. Their cameras are also capturing the stories of artists, low-income seniors, and residents of single-room-occupancy hotels who have long made the neighborhood their home. They describe their documentary 5 Blocks as “set in the gritty Central Market Street area.” Their goal with the film is to spend five years following “a determined, but shaky, coalition as it works to redeem the neighborhood without casting aside the poor and marginalized. With a technology boom quickly gentrifying the street, this may be their last chance.” “We spent six months researching whether to do the film,” said Cortlandt, 54, a photo editor and filmmaker who moved to the city in 1982 and lives in the Bayview, another fast gentrifying San Francisco neighborhood. Past efforts by city leaders to revitalize or redevelop neighborhoods have a “checkered past,” noted Goldes, pointing to the demolition of the Fillmore, a once thriving African American community whose jazz clubs rivaled those in Harlem, and that of Yerba Buena, whose SROs were torn up to build a convention center and museum district. The latest efforts along the five blocks of Market Street between Fifth and 10th streets, which include a controversial tax break for companies that relocate into the area, are once again being touted by City Hall as a catalyst for transformative changes. “It is a lofty goal so it is an interesting thing to follow,” said Goldes, 52, who also moved to San Francisco in 1982 and lives in Glen Park. During their initial conversations about their film idea, the filmmakers heard from many backers of the Mid-Market plans that they had learned from the mistakes of past revitalization efforts and vowed not to repeat them. “People we talked to in the city didn’t want to see that happen again,” said Goldes, who had been working for the city’s tourism bureau but left to focus on consulting work and making films. The filmmakers decided to devote

Honda

From page 1

relevant public opinion data on ENDA’s gender identity provisions.) Institute officials stated that their research confirms that ENDA would pass if all House members followed their constituents. Yet seeing the House take up the bill appears unlikely. House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) has repeatedly said he would not bring ENDA to the floor for a vote, saying he does not believe the legislation is necessary and that it would lead to frivolous lawsuits. LGBT leaders have criticized Boehner for his stated reasoning for his opposition to ENDA. Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin stated he finds it “shocking that Speaker Boehner, entrusted by the people to make laws, is so funda-

Rick Gerharter

Filmmakers Robert Cortlandt, left, and Dan Goldes stand in front of a mural in the Mid-Market area of San Francisco, the subject of their film.

six years to document the changes under way and how it impacts the current residents in the Central Market corridor. Their production company is called Urbanstreet Films and they are working with cinematographer Erin Palmquist, who worked on the 2008 documentary Out on the Dance Floor about the gay country western dance events held by Sundance Saloon, which Goldes and Cortlandt both frequent. They have attended countless Mid-Market community meetings and events in order to build up relationships and trust with current residents and neighborhood activists. They also landed upon an idea of asking people to map out what changes they would like to see occur along that segment of Market Street. The mapping sessions not only offer the filmmakers a way to introduce themselves to the neighborhood but may end up in the completed documentary. “We have developed trust in the community,” said Cortlandt in a recent interview at the gourmet sausage eatery Show Dogs Emporium, one of the first new restaurants to take a chance on mid-Market Street when it opened across from the Golden Gate Theater in 2009. “Because we are documentary filmmakers we don’t have an agenda other than to follow the story. It is amazing what people will tell us on camera.” Added Goldes, “There are a million stories here. We can’t tell them all but we don’t want them to be forgotten.” They are just finishing year three of filming and have two more to go before spending a final year on post-production work with the goal of premiering the

documentary in 2016. “We have talked to a lot of people who live and work in the neighborhood,” said Goldes. “We’ve talked to residents, churchgoers, nonprofit folks,” added Cortlandt. Their project dovetails with the larger conversation taking place over the latest technology boom, soaring housing prices, and increasing evictions of long-time tenants throughout San Francisco. “It brings potential and problems. It brings up interesting questions about who makes decisions about the neighborhood and how is the old life and new life respected,” said Goldes. “How does a city deal with that balance? We think there is the potential for people to learn from this experience.” Cortlandt added that the film will also explore “how does different populations co-exist and do artists stay or get priced out? We have a lot of a questions and hope the next three years will answer them.” The film has already tapped into the current zeitgeist of concerns over the future of the city and who will call it home. “The interest has been pretty phenomenal,” said Goldes. The filmmakers recently held a fundraiser at the gay Castro bar Lookout that was “jam packed,” said Cortlandt. They also launched a successful crowdfunding campaign last year on Indiegogo and have raised more than $40,000 so far in public donations. “As an independent production we shoot when there are interesting things going on and when funding is available,” said Goldes. The San Francisco Film Society agreed to be a fiscal sponsor of the film and is collecting donations for it online. A two-and-a-half minute teaser of the film can be seen on the society’s website at http:// www.sffs.org/donate/donate-now. aspx?pid=1152.t

mentally mistaken about what’s currently on the books. The speaker is flat out wrong on the facts and the law.” Pelosi, now the House minority leader, has also been critical of Boehner’s stance on ENDA, saying that the House Republican leadership “continues to stand in the way of progress.” In a statement released shortly after the Senate passed ENDA, Pelosi called on the House Republicans “to bring ENDA up for a vote, pass this long overdue bill, and make this measure the law of the land.” Asked about Boehner’s stated opposition to the legislation, Honda said it was “disingenuous of him” to cite that reasoning for why he won’t bring the legislation up for a vote. He added that Boehner “again ... could change his mind like he did with” allowing a vote on the reauthorization of the Violence Against

Women Act earlier this year or the GOP reversal on the government shutdown this fall. In terms of ENDA, Honda suggested Boehner’s change of heart might occur next spring after the filing deadlines in many states have closed for candidates to enter House races. “Maybe he is waiting until March,” said Honda. “If he sees his members don’t have Tea Party candidates running against them he will make a calculation about scheduling ENDA for a vote.” The same could be true for the fate of comprehensive immigration reform, said Honda, with Boehner waiting to see how many Republicans may be facing an intraparty primary fight from a more conservative Tea Party-backed candidate See page 22 >>

<< Business News

10 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

For gifts, think sharp, San Franciscan, and sustainable by Raymond Flournoy

ow that the holiday tree is up and lit, Castro merchants are ready to help you find the perfect holiday gift – for you or for that special someone on your list.

Clothes that can make the man

The Castro is famous for its bar-hopping potential, but within just a few blocks lie abundant options for menswear. The choices range from casual to formal, from budget to budget-breaking. At the casual end, Body San Francisco (450 Castro Street) features clothing with an emphasis on fun and sporty. Consider a Toddland union suit in quirky prints like camouflage and handlebar mustaches ($46). The packaging proudly claims that they come “Backflap included!” Another playful choice is the Nixon watch, available in a range of candy colors for $85-$425. Body’s sister store Citizen Clothing (489 Castro Street) offers items with an emphasis on European style. Accessories are always a safe gift choice with no sizes to worry about. Citizen carries Chelsea scarves from Germany ($75-$85) as well as boxed gift sets of colorful socks by Happy Socks (4 for $45) and Jonathan Adler (3 for $36). Another shop bringing high style to the Castro is Alfio Boutique Italiana (526 Castro Street), which deals exclusively in Italian imports. A new entry to the U.S. market is Brosway jewelry. Its masculine styles emphasize leather and stainless steel, and Alfio carries a range of options from $79 up to $150.

Homegrown options

Of course style doesn’t have to be imported. Plenty of options are available for shoppers who want gifts produced locally. Check out suspenders by Suspender Factory out of Emeryville. A wide range of playful colors and looks is offered at Outfit Castro (463 Castro Street) for $14.50 to $26. Owner Ryan Hill has also begun manufacturing some of his house brand Icon in South San Francisco. Ask for the locally produced Icon knitwear which run $49-$69. Moving beyond fashion, locally made options abound in the Castro. Best in Show (545 Castro Street) offers Cheengo pet collars ($34.95) produced here in San Francisco. Eureka Cafe (451 Castro Street) is carrying a gift set of the jars of Maison de Monaco jams for $20. The jams are handmade in San Francisco and the gift set includes a handy caddy. The Castro Village Wine Company (4121 19th Street) offers a range of spirits made locally. Fluid Dynamics out of Mendocino sells bottled classic cocktails, with each containing roughly two drinks (or one if you do not feel like sharing). A three-pack sells for $55. ZGO (600 Castro Street) carries candles and fragrances from around the world, but look for the R. Nichols holiday-themed candles, which are designed in Sausalito. A threepack of votives sells for $75 or a single large candle is available for $45. Whatever... (548 Castro Street) has long been a supporter of local talent in the comic world. Right now on their shelves they are featuring a variety of works by gay authors. Artifice by Alex Woolfson (illustrated by Winona Nelson) ($19.99) is dark and brooding, while So Super Duper

inspirational phrases and images such as the SF skyline into driftwood. The pieces range from small desk ornaments ($14) up to statement wall pieces ($40). Booty Boutique creates belt buckles from recycled and repurposed materials, including beer cans, packaging, and broken car glass swept up from San Francisco streets. The buckles cost $32, and are the creation of Kyra Brown, also the coowner of Local Take.

Sustainable Season’s Greetings

Jane Philomen Cleland

Elves Jimmer Cassiol, left, and Seth Morrison, right, flank Santa (Fred Bothe) at the annual Castro holiday tree lighting Monday, December 2. They were joined by Santa’s helpers Xaria Lubensky, Camille Bennett, and Zuri Lubensky.

by Brian Anderson (illustrated by Celina Hernandez) ($29.99) offers a silly spoof on superheroes. For kid-friendly fare, check out Between Here and the Lint Trap by Desmond Miller (illustrated by Gene Guilmette) for $15. But the epicenter of the local movement would have to be Local Take (3979-B 17th Street) a new boutique that exclusively carries items produced by local artists and artisans. Among the one-of-a-kind items are journals by Recover Your Thoughts, handmade from discarded library books ($13). Oodle-BaDoodle creates whimsical pillows using factory-discard fabrics ($35-$50). From Oakland, Gneiss Wood burns T:9.75”

One of the recurring themes of Local Take is using reclaimed or recycled materials. Looking for products made from these discarded materials or other sustainable materials is a great way to make your season a little greener. Cliff ’s Variety (479 Castro Street) offers a range of kitchen tools made from bamboo, a more sustainable material. A pair of bamboo salad hands runs $9.99. Best in Show sells a collection of one-of-akind animal collars made from old recycled neckties ($29.95), giving stylish new life to what would have ended up in a landfill. The Castro also has a wide range of places to shop for used clothing, either for your own holiday outfit or as a green gift for someone else. At the cheaper end, Out of the Closet (100 Church Street) offers bargains in a thrift store setting. Crossroads Trading Co. (2123 Market Street) stocks their stores with men’s and women’s clothing and accessories bought from your fellow shoppers. At the high end, Sui Generis Consignment specializes in designer and vintage pieces at their boutiques for men (2231 Market Street) and women (2265 Market Street). A hint from the sales staff is to look up; the most luxurious items are displayed on a rail high up on the

walls, circling the store. And finally, what could be greener than actual green things? Lower your carbon footprint by giving a carbon-eating plant. Hortica (566 Castro Street) offers seasonal options such as English holly ($5.99) and holiday cactus plants ($8-$28, depending on size).

Treats for you and me, man and beast

Amidst all of the shopping for others, do not forget to make time for a treat or two for yourself. You don’t have to resort to the chain stores for holiday-themed coffees. Spike’s Coffees and Teas (4117 19th Street) is serving up a peppermint mocha sprinkled with crushed candy canes, as well as a salted caramel latte so good that it has been promoted to the year-round menu. For a drink that packs a different kind of punch, try the Bloody Mary Christmas at Harvey’s (500 18th Street), made with vodka infused in-house with Mazano peppers and a touch of garlic. General manager Steve Porter described the Mazano as “between a jalapeno and habanero with respect to heat,” and guarantees that this “makes for an absolutely delicious Bloody Mary.” During December, Swirl on Castro (572 Castro Street) will be adding a flight of sparkling wines to its tasting menu ($10). Audition the bubbly options before serving one at your holiday party. And while you are getting spruced up for the holidays, why not give your pooch a spa day as well? At Mudpuppy’s Tub and Scrub (536 Castro Street) your puppy can enjoy a standard wash ($24 to $39 depending on size) or splurge on special dog-friendly nail polish to be holiday-party-ready. The cost is $25 for one pair of paws.t

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Community News >>

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 17

Budget cuts dampen progress on AIDS by Lisa Keen

ary. Many analysts are predicting those cuts could be much more dramatic next year than the first round of sequestration cuts that took place this year. Such AIDS-related funding took on renewed urgency for the LGBT community last week when the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported last Friday that, among men who have sex with men, “Unprotected anal sex at least once in the past 12 months [has] increased from 48 percent in 2005 to 57 percent in 2011.” Also in 2011, said the report, MSM “accounted for at least half of persons diagnosed with HIV in all but two states.” The two states were Pennsylvania and South Dakota, but even in those two states, MSM still accounted for between 46 and 49 percent of HIV infections. In his World AIDS Day remarks Obama signaled he understood that urgency for the LGBT community and others particularly hard hit by HIV. “We need to keep focusing on investments to communities that are still being hit hardest, including gay and bisexual men, African Americans and Latinos,” said the president. He also announced that the National Institutes of Health would redirect $100 million in funds over the next three years toward research seeking a cure for AIDS.

ore than 9,000 people with HIV were on a waiting list for federal assistance in buying their medications in August 2011. On Monday, President Barack Obama announced that, as of this week, that number is down to zero. “At one time, the need was so great that over 9,000 people were on the waitlist,” said the president, at a White House ceremony December 2 marking World AIDS Day. “We vowed to get those numbers down. And I’m proud to announce that, as of last week, we have cleared that waitlist. We are down to zero. And we’re going to keep working to keep it down.” Carl Schmid, an official at the AIDS Institute who has devoted considerable voice to shining a light on that waiting list, agreed the Obama administration deserves some credit. Schmid said the administration’s re-direction of $35 million in funding to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program two years ago “really helped” clear the waiting lists. The vast majority of names on the waiting lists (96 percent) were in southern states. In August 2011, the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors showed Florida with 3,751 names on the waiting list; Georgia with 1,718; Louisiana with 961; South Carolina with 896; Virginia with 875; North Carolina with 316; Alabama with 130; and Arkansas with 51. The only other

Rick Gerharter

The World AIDS Day remembrance in the National AIDS Memorial Grove Sunday, December 1 included the reading of names newly inscribed into the Circle of Friends.

states with waiting lists were Ohio with 247, Utah with 40, Montana with 29, and Idaho with 25. And most of these same southern states have now declined federal funding under the Affordable Care Act to expand their Medicaid programs and to set up state-run exchanges that citizens can use to find affordable health insurance options. Schmid said the lack of state-run exchanges doesn’t hurt so much because people with HIV can seek options through the national exchange. (The AIDS Institute has surveyed the options and is making its recommendations through a mainstream media outlet later this week.)

But the refusal of many states to accept Medicaid expansion does hurt many people with HIV, said Schmid, because “most ADAP clients are low-income, and the majority are below the poverty level.” So, said Schmid, it’s just not clear how much money will be needed for ADAP in the future because no one can forecast yet just how many people with low incomes and HIV will be able to get medication assistance under Medicaid or through private insurance in the exchanges. Schmid and other AIDS activists are also concerned about federal and state budget cuts generally, as well as the looming sequestration cuts that could hit as soon as Janu-

Funding down

Meanwhile, many of the community’s own AIDS organizations are

struggling with loss of funding and continued federal budget cuts. The National Association of People with AIDS went out of business earlier this year after filing for bankruptcy. Gay Men’s Health Crisis in New York suffered a $66,000 cut in federal funding to its meals program for people with HIV and the state was able to chip in only $22,676 last week to help make up that deficit. A survey of 131 AIDS organizations in 29 states, released by the AIDS Institute in October, found that 85 percent of the groups experienced a drop in funding at the same time that 79 percent of them saw an increase in clients seeking help. AIDS Institute Executive Director Michael Ruppal said his group was urging “Congress and the president to reverse the cuts caused by sequestration and adequately fund critical public health programs, including those that prevent HIV and provide for care and treatment for people living with HIV.” But it’s hard to predict whether there’s any chance of that happening. A House-Senate conference committee working on a budget agreement for fiscal year 2014 missed its December 2 deadline. The House is due to leave December 13 for the holidays but leaders on both sides of the aisle have indicated they are still optimistic they can come up with a bottom line for the federal FY 14 budget by next week. From that bottom line point, lawmakers then have until January 15 to work out the details agency by agency.t

It’s lights out as San Jose LGBT bar closes by Heather Cassell

he windows illuminating the colors of the rainbow flag and the pulsating music spilling from Brix nightclub onto South First Street in downtown San Jose will cease after Monday, December 9. After seven years of being the place for San Jose’s LGBT and ally community to party on any given night the club is closing. Owners Rod and Cindi Sichisler announced November 27 on the club’s Facebook page and website that it would shutter its doors. To say goodbye to the community, the Sichislers and staff are throwing a farewell bash, bringing back favorite DJs, bartenders, and more Saturday, December 7 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. On December 9 the club will host its final $1 Mondays, where everything will be a buck. “With $1 for all liquor until it’s gone, I expect we will have a line out the door. Customers should get here early,” Rod Sichisler said in an email interview. The 63-year-old grandfather of five – with one on the way – and his wife of 33 years, Cindi, opened the

club as a second career after they retired. It was their goal to create an upscale gay bar, Brix, formerly known as Hunters, which they did in a historic loft-like brick building with a back patio on June 1, 2007. In its heyday the party was on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays, but in recent years the happy chatter, the sounds of drinks pouring and glasses clinking, and the throb of the music have died down to only Mondays, said Joe Colligan, the gay 40-something bar manager, and Rod Sichisler. On any given week more than 1,000 people – queer and straight – flowed into the club, Sichisler said. Rod and Cindi Sichisler were embraced by San Jose’s LGBT community before Brix opened and they have been a part of the community ever since. Rod is a member of the Rainbow Chamber and was a major sponsor of San Jose Pride, hosting the official after-parties for a few years and donating thousands of dollars to the organization. He said that he also donates to the Billy De Frank Center, along with other community organizations. When the Bay Area Reporter stopped by Brix Monday it didn’t

look like a bar on its deathbed. The club was packed and everyone was

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<< Community News

18 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Bank unveils Castro mural

tuart Milk spoke of his late uncle, Harvey Milk, during the unveiling of a mural celebrating LGBT history at the Wells Fargo Bank branch, 557 Castro Street. Tuesday, November 26. Harvey Milk is one of several pioneering LGBT individuals and organizations that are depicted in the mural. Images for the project were provided by several resources, including the GLBT Historical Society, photographer Dan Nicoletta, and the Wells Fargo corporate archives. The mural is located on the wall near the bank’s entrance and a key provides captions for each of the images featured.

Surrogacy • Adoption • Prenuptial Agreements Divorce • Custody • Parentage Disputes

Rick Gerharter

LGBTs to raise funds for typhoon victims compiled by Cynthia Laird

DOMA IS DEAD! PETITION FOR YOUR PARTNER The Supreme Court decision to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act now opens the door for members of samesex couples to sponsor their foreighn-born partners for green cards. With Proposition 8 overturned as well, making all samesex marriages in California legal, this path is available to all multi-national California same-sex couples. For more information contact office of California Bar Certified Immigration and Naturalization Specialist Love Macione, Senior Immigration Counsel at Schein & Cai, LLP.

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group of LGBTs will host Operation T: Haiyan/Yolanda Typhoon Recovery Fundraiser to help victims of the massive storm that hit the Philippines last month. The star-studded event takes place Saturday, December 7 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Beaux, 2344 Market Street in San Francisco. Local celebrity Tita Aida will serve as emcee. The party will feature local personalities, amazing performances, and a raffle that includes donated gifts and items from area businesses. Additionally, there will be a “strip for cash” component featuring hot men willing to strip to raise money for the cause, organizers said. Entertainment includes drag performer La Monistat, drag dance troupe Rice Rockettes, Miss Gay Asian Pacific Alliance 2013 Khmera Rouge, Mr. Gay Asian Pacific Alliance 2013 Nguyen “Sir Whitney Queers” Pham, and trans performer Sabrina “Jasmine” Marisol. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence will also be on hand, along with DJ Jeff Morena. Beaux will donate 10 percent of the drink sales from the event. The American Center of Philippine Arts is the fiscal sponsor. There is no cover charge. Haiyan hit the eastern parts of the Philippine Islands November 2 and left a wide swath of death and destruction. Media accounts have a death toll at more than 5,000 people, while nearly 2,000 more are still missing. “Assessing the situation, it will take a good five to seven years before things come back to normal in these cities,” organizers said in a news release, referring to several areas hit hard by the storm. Funds generated at the party will be contributed to the National Alliance for Filipino Concerns-USA, which is working closely with Bayanihan Alay sa Sambayanan.

Tree of Hope ceremony

The Rainbow World Fund’s World Tree of Hope lighting ceremony will take place Tuesday, December 10 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. inside the San Francisco City Hall rotunda, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. The tree is decorated with thousands of white origami cranes, each containing written notes of hope and peace from children and individuals from around the world. The tree is a gift from members of the LGBT and Japanese American communities to the world. The Rainbow World Fund, an LGBT humanitarian group based in San Francisco, created the tree eight years ago. For more information

Courtesy Tita Aida

Tita Aida will emcee at a benefit for Typhoon Haiyan victims.

about the organization, visit www. rainbowfund.org.

Manning attorney to make first Bay Area appearance

David Coombs, the attorney who represented Army Private Chelsea Manning during her court-martial this summer, will be in Oakland next week, making his first appearance on the West Coast. Manning was found guilty of leaking classified government documents to WikiLeaks and sentenced to 35 years in prison. Immediately after her conviction she came out as transgender. Coombs will be speaking at the Humanist Hall, 320 27th Street in Oakland, Monday, December 9. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. A donation of $5-$10 is requested at the door. Coombs is expected to discuss what’s being done to support Manning as well as discuss the historic court-martial and the Manning case’s implications for journalism, information transparency, and human rights in the U.S.

Drag queens on ice

The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square will sport plenty of sequins next week when the annual Drag Queens on Ice event takes place. Scheduled for Thursday, December 12 from 8 to 9:30 p.m., the fierce and fabulous drag queens are returning for an event themed “An Eleganza Extravaganza.” Drag queens and kings from across the Bay Area are invited to don their most “gay apparel” for an evening of laughs, lip synching and lipstick. Ticket prices for skaters are $11 and $7 for children aged 8 and under. Ice skate and hockey skate rentals are $5. Drag Queens on Ice is presented by Visit Mendocino County. For more information, visit www. unionsquareicerink.com.

SFPD offers holiday safety tips

Now that the holiday shopping

season is in full swing, the San Francisco Police Department has offered several safety tips for shoppers. Perhaps most importantly, given the high number of cellphone thefts, is that people should remain alert when using electronic devices. Other tips include: leave nothing visible in your car; try to park in a lot with an attendant; always be alert to your surroundings; have your keys in your hand as you approach your vehicle; do not overburden yourself with packages and other items; keep wallets in hard-to-reach places, such as your front pocket; and be wary of anyone causing a distraction in close-quartered places, such as public transit. Additionally, people should only carry the cash and credit cards that they will need and keep cash separate from your ID and credit cards. Finally, people should shop with a companion, especially after dark, whenever possible and if someone does demand your purse or wallet, surrender it as resisting may result in bodily harm. For more information, visit www. sanfranciscopolice.org.

Women’s DIFO holiday party

The Doing It For Ourselves program, a federally funded, free health and wellness project for 40-plus lesbian and bisexual women, will hold its holiday party Saturday, December 14 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the San Francisco LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market Street. Organizers invite older women to come out and celebrate the winter holidays and to wear an outfit or bring a picture or artifact from their early days in the community to honor the past. Activities at the party will include games, discussions, a gentle yoga workshop, open mic (five-minute slots), and dancing to an eclectic mix of oldies and newer music. There is a suggested donation of $1-$5. Funds raised will go for future community-building events that are not within the scope of the grant. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. For more information, contact Deborah Craig at (510) 717-3382 or dcraig@impaqint.com.

TLC to hold open house in Oakland

The Transgender Law Center will hold an open house at its new Oakland offices Tuesday, December 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. at 1629 Telegraph Avenue, Suite 400. The location is near the 19th Street BART station. Community members are welcome to stop by and see the agency’s new, expanded office in downtown Oakland, meet staff members, and celebrate the work TLC has done to end discrimination. Food, wine, and beverages will be provided. For more information, visit www. transgenderlawcenter.org. t

Community News>>

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 19

Ads urge LGBTs to sign up for health insurance by Matthew S. Bajko

alifornia’s health insurance exchange is targeting uninsured LGBT residents with a new marketing campaign aimed at signing them up for coverage. The billboards, ads in LGBT newspapers and on bus shelters in gay neighborhoods throughout the state began appearing this week. The advertisements from Covered California feature either a male or female same-sex couple with the tagline “Welcome to health insurance made affordable.” It is part of the state-based agency’s partnership with 11 local community-based organizations throughout California to reach LGBT people and educate them about the benefits being offered due to the federal Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare. The goal is to see as many LGBT people without health insurance as possible sign up for coverage through Covered California by December 23 so their policies will kick in come the new year. “As of January 1 you will be protected,” Peter V. Lee, Covered California’s executive director, said Tuesday during a press conference for LGBT media outlets held at the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Cen-

Correction The San Francisco Media Company’s Holiday Guide 2013, of which the Bay Area Reporter was a contributing publication, included the incorrect venue for San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus’ annual concert Friday, December 6. It will be held at the War Memorial Opera House. Also, the chorus’s concerts at the Castro Theatre are only on December 24 at 5, 7, and 9 p.m.

Karen Ocamb

Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee, left, listened during a conference call at the Village in Hollywood, with Christopher Brown, director of health and mental health services at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center, in glasses on the right.

ter. “Same-sex couples will have the same protections as heterosexual couples. Being transgender will no longer be a pre-existing condition. This is a huge opportunity.” Unlike with the national rollout of Obamacare, derailed by a glitchprone website and faced with constant attacks from Republicans, the Golden State’s online exchange has been dubbed a success. Since opening October 1 through November 23 the exchange has seen 385,556 enrollment applications started. It is unclear, however, how many of those were from LGBT people. Governor Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that would have authorized Covered California and Medi-Cal to include voluntary questions about a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity on their application forms. “We are at the early part of the first inning in a nine-inning game,” said Lee. “We will continue to look at how we collect data and those we serve.”

What is known, said Lee, is that members of the LGBT community are less likely to be insured, are more likely to smoke, leading to increased health risks, and have higher rates of mental illness. A 2009 study of nearly 5,000 LGBT Americans led by Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund found that 10 percent (502 people) were uninsured and that nearly 5 percent (228 people) were both lowincome and uninsured. “The Affordable Care Act is a game changer for our community, especially those with HIV,” said Christopher Brown, the L.A. center’s director of health and mental health services. “The LGBT community faces significant health disparities and access to health care when compared to our heterosexual brothers and sisters.” Prior to the passage of the Affordable Care Act, many gay and bisexual men with HIV or AIDS were T:9.75” denied health insurance due to pre-

existing condition clauses, while transgender people’s hormone therapy or gender-reassignment surgery was not covered. Now, said Lee, “getting into care can be dramatically improved” due to Obamacare. “Denial of health care for people with HIV or women with breast cancer, that is a thing of the past,” he said. “It really is a remarkable testament to our country. The Affordable Care Act is about changing the game for everyone; it is about health insurance being a right not a privilege.” Those without coverage have until March 31 to sign up, as well as receive financial assistance if they qualify, before the open enrollment period ends. Otherwise, the next opportunity to do so will be in October of next year for coverage that begins in 2015. (Medi-Cal enrollment will remain open year round.) “If in June you get a cancer diagnosis or are hit by a truck you will not be covered. You will have to wait till the next open enrollment,” noted Lee. “You run the risk of having medical bills you can’t pay. It is why we are trying to pound the pavement.” Undocumented immigrants and people incarcerated are ineligible to apply. The paperwork asks individuals about their immigration status, but Lee noted that the information is not shared with federal immigration officials. After March 31 those people who are released from jail, lose their employer-provided health insurance due to being fired, or divorce their spouse under whose policy they were covered can still enroll through Covered California. Those who do not have insurance will face a fiscal penalty for each month they do not carry coverage. In 2014, the fine will be 1 percent

of yearly income or $95 per person, whichever is greater, plus an additional $47.50 per child for adults who lack coverage for their children. In 2016 the fine will increase to 2.5 percent of income or $695 per person, whichever is greater. Based on the half-page ad that is running for two weeks in the Bay Area Reporter, other than the image of the two men (or two women) there is nothing explicitly stating the new marketing campaign from Covered California is targeting the LGBT community. It does not use the words gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender in the ad copy. Rather, the message is more generic, explaining that Covered California is “your destination for quality, affordable health insurance.” It includes the exchange’s website address and toll-free phone number. “We provide financial assistance for those who need help with their monthly insurance bills, and no one can be denied because of a preexisting condition,” states the ad, which will appear only in English though the website has forms in various languages. “We are reaching out to the Latino gay community but not in outdoor billboards,” said Lee. In addition to San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, the campaign is being rolled out in the counties of San Joaquin, Alameda, Riverside, San Bernardino, Contra Costa, and Orange. Covered California will continue its marketing efforts through March 31. “Then we will take a deep breath and evaluate what works,” Lee said, before rolling a new campaign sometime in April through next October.t For more information, visit https://www.coveredca.com/.

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<< Community News

20 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Winning videos combat bullying

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t’s the time of year when we’re all bustling to find presents for our loved ones and making our resolutions for better diets and better workout habits for the new year. While we’re at it, we should hang up those calendars we get from our insurance agents and mark the dates of special LGBT sports events for 2014. You can start with January 11 and June 26. Those are the nights San Francisco Bulls hockey team and the San Francisco Giants will have special promotional nights for LGBT fans, respectively. The Giants, who have had LGBT nights for several years, will offer a specially themed bag to people who purchase the promotional tickets to go with the specialty T-shirts and hats they have offered in years past; and the Bulls, who had their first LGBT night last season, will be wearing specially rainbow-themed jerseys that will be auctioned off after their match. Oh, what fun it is to accessorize! The Giants had kicked around a few different dates for their 12th annual LGBT Night before settling on Thursday, June 26 – a perfect date as it kicks off Pride weekend. First pitch will be at 7:15 p.m. against my hometown Cincinnati Reds, who made the playoffs again last season but this year will be without manager Dusty Baker. A pre-game party for special ticket holders will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at Seals Plaza. Partial proceeds will benefit local LGBT community nonprofit organizations. Tickets are available under the Special Events menu at sanfrancisco.giants.mlb.com. The Bulls said part of their sales from the 7:30 p.m. match Saturday, January 11 against the Alaska Aces will benefit San Francisco Pride. The Bulls are a minor league affiliate of the San Jose Sharks. Tickets are available from http://www.sfbulls.com. Other sports teams’ LGBT promotions are not yet set. Both the Sharks, who held an Equality Night last season, and the Golden State Warriors, who held a Q&A session last year with their executives, said they would probably have similar events later this season. The Oak-

Courtesy San Francisco Bulls

Rawhide, the San Francisco Bulls mascot, ran in this year’s San Francisco Pride parade.

land Athletics have not organized an LGBT Night in recent years but told the Bay Area Reporter they would consider holding one next season.

Olympic sit-down

Numerous news agencies reported that International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach met with LGBT activists in Paris at the end of November to discuss Russia’s anti-gay laws leading up to the Sochi Winter Olympics. What almost none of the news organizations reported, because they were reliant on the press release of a single LGBT human rights group not affiliated with sports, were the names of the LGBT sports groups Bach actually met with. Bach met with Elvina Yuvakaeva and Konstantin Yablotskiy of the Russian LGBT Sports Federation, and Emy Ritt and Marc Naimark of the Federation of Gay Games. It is believed to be the first meeting ever between the IOC and any LGBT sports groups. Issues reported as being discussed were making sports more inclusive, security, and protection during the Olympic Games, and the efforts to organize the Russian Open Games after the Winter Olympics.

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Obituaries >> Millard F. “Bud” Ball December 6, 1924 – November 13, 2013

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Millard Ball, known to his friends as Bud, passed away unexpectedly at Marin General Hospital on November 13, 2013 after a short illness. Bud was born in North Carolina and was raised by adoptive parents, and then in an orphanage in Columbia, South Carolina. After serving in the Navy in World War II, Bud earned a degree in business administration at Washington State University. Following a brief career with the U.S. State Department, including

a deployment at the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland, Bud worked for Chevron USA for over 30 years as a workers’ compensation administrator. Bud was a resident of Marin County for 60 years. Bud had many loves in life, including gardening, travel, theater, great food, but most of all, drinking a good martini with his friends. Bud always made it a point to get off the beaten path and visit places that were unique and worthy of adventure, and he fully appreciated life in ways that many of us can only dream of. Bud is survived by John Rando, his devoted partner of 25 years, and many dear friends. Donations in Bud’s memory may be made to Meals on Wheels/Whistlestop in San Rafael, Hospice By the Bay in Larkspur, or the charity of one’s choice.

llison Talker, right, a junior from Wallenberg High School, talked about her experience in making the third place winning video “Love Hate Make the Right Choice,” along with co-filmmaker Amy Johnson, next to Tucker, also a junior from Wallenberg High, during the announcement by District Attorney George Gascón, left, of the winners in his office’s second annual “Bye Bye Bullying” video contest. Second place winner was Christopher Pang, second from left, a senior from Galileo High School, for his video “A Brief Intro to Cyberbullying.” The winning entry was “Part of the 13 Millions” by Lillibelle Liang, a freshman from Lincoln High School. She was not able to attend the December 3 event as she was taking a test at school.

are egregious grammatical errors. Adjectives functioning as adverbs (“He played good!”) and plural pronouns juxtaposed with singular nouns and verbs (“San Francisco has their running game going”) plague athletic airwaves with regularity. But last weekend, perhaps the best weekend of rivalry games in college football history ending in spectacular, spell-binding finishes, was marred by ABC commentators who seemed to be doing backflips to see which of them could use the words “hate” and “hatred” the most. Over and over they told us how much the Auburn and Alabama fans and players “hated” each other. Ditto Ohio State and Michigan. Ditto UCLA and USC. And on and on and on. It was the most absurd extremism in college football commentary ... for one day. Then the athletic director at the University of Auburn, which had blown apart his arch-rival’s hopes for an undefeated season and another shot at a national championship with a touchdown-return of a missed field goal attempt in the last second of their game, upstaged ABC in his pleas to have his school awarded a spot in the national title game. Jay Jacobs told reporters that it would be “un-American” not to have a one-loss team from his conference in the national championship game even though, going into this weekend, Florida State and Ohio State are both unbeaten and atop the rankings. He said it would be a “disservice” to the nation to leave Auburn out and it was “inarguable” the Tigers should be selected over Ohio State. Or “inconceivable” as the assassin in The Princess Bride would say just before keeling over dead. But all of that talk of un-American acts and fan hatred are merely hyperbolic examples of limited minds trying to express big emotions. For sheer chutzpah from a mind without a clue, check out the grievance disgraced Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Richie Incognito filed against his employers. Incognito, who was suspended indefinitely by the Dolphins for alleged abuse of his teammate, Jonathan Martin, filed a statement against the Dolphins saying they had failed to tell him in advance that using racially charged and abusive language was inappropriate. Repeat that: Incognito, a high school and college graduate who had previously made a public service announcement for the Dolphins saying the abusive language and behavior was inappropriate, a video that had been shown repeatedly during Dolphins home games, said that he didn’t know that abusive language and behavior was inappropriate. Inconceivable. Incognito, by the way, is back on the payroll but not playing to allow more time for the investigation into his conduct to be investigated. It should be noted that that is inarguably a disservice to the game, but not un-American. But I sure do hate it.t

t <<

From the Cover>>

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 21

Shooting suspect

From page 1

where police have been looking for information about Green, show that he has a violent history that includes assault and domestic violence charges. According to people who knew Warren, she and her partner had gone with others to the club Saturday, November 16 to celebrate her partner’s birthday. At about 2:10 a.m. Sunday, November 17, after the group left the club, Warren and a friend got into a “minor” car accident in a parking lot nearby, police said in a news release. A woman approached Warren’s friend, who was the car’s driver, and tried to open her door. Warren got out of the car “in an attempt to calm down the angry female suspect,” police said. Green appeared with a gun and shot Warren and the car’s driver, according to police. Warren was shot in the head, and her friend was shot in the torso. Both were taken to San Francisco General Hospital, where Warren was pronounced dead. Officer Gordon Shyy, a San Francisco Police Department spokesman, said Monday, December 2 that there hadn’t been any arrests in the case, and he didn’t have new information to share. In a followup email, he said Warren’s friend, whose injuries had been considered life threatening, was in stable condition but remained hospitalized. Green is 5 feet 11 inches and 230 pounds. He may be traveling in a 2001 Mercedes with California license plate 4UIP704. The woman has been described as Pacific Islander, over 6 feet tall, in her early 20s, and wearing a red dress. Anyone who knows Green’s whereabouts is asked to call 911. People who knew Warren have described her as ambitious and kind. She was originally from Oakland and graduated in 2012 from California State University, Sacramento with a criminal justice degree.

Violent history

Green has been involved in several violent incidents in recent years, court documents show. According to the files, prosecutors charged him with assault with a deadly weapon by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury, a felony, after a March 2008 incident in which Green, who was attending San Mateo Adult School, struck another student with a chair and kicked his car. San Mateo Police Officer Adam Smith testified at the preliminary hearing that the victim had been left bleeding from lacerations to his forehead, a transcript says. The victim had been talking to his and Green’s economics teacher when “someone in the back of the class mumbled something under his breath, and he turned around to find out what that was,” Smith said the victim had told him. Green “stood up and started yelling and came at him with a chair,” then struck him on the head, the officer testified. Green then followed the victim to his car and kicked a rear fender, leaving a dent, said Smith. The officer also said that Green had told him that the other man had given him “a look, which angered him.” He also told Smith that he’d said, “Shut your faggot ass up” to the victim before hitting him with the chair. The attorney who defended Green in the case said that Green didn’t have an adult record, according to the transcript. In July 2008, Green pleaded no contest to felony assault. He had also been charged with a felony count of damaging someone’s property, but that charge was dismissed. He was sentenced to three years of supervised probation, but court records state that he didn’t comply. According to a deputy probation officer, prosecutors charged Green

Courtesy Sil Warren

Melquiesha “Mel” Warren

after a December 2008 incident in which he allegedly committed petty theft from a merchant. Then, in May 2010, the officer said in court records, prosecutors charged Green with a domestic violence-related battery count after he allegedly pushed his girlfriend, with whom he was living. He also was charged with endangering his child’s health and resisting a public officer. In November 2010, according to another deputy probation officer, who cited a police report, Green violated probation by failing to abstain from alcohol, being publicly intoxicated, and resisting arrest. Later that month, his probation was revoked and terminated. Court records indicate that with credit for time served, work, and good behavior, Green was ordered to San Quentin State Prison for a brief period. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation spokesman Luis Patino said that SFPD spokesman Officer Albie Esparza requested his agency not release information on Green. Court records show that Green and three other men were charged with misdemeanor battery after taking part in an apparent fight at Moon’s sports bar in San Mateo in October 2012. Green eventually pleaded no contest in October 2013 and was granted two years of court probation.

No word on Green’s location

According to court documents, Green and two of the other men lived within blocks of each other near Highway 101 in San Mateo. Last week, a man standing outside the James Court house listed as Green’s address quickly became hostile when asked about Green and said the shooting suspect didn’t live there. “I don’t know who you’re talking about,” he said, and he repeatedly told a reporter, “Get out of here.” Jimmy Moana Bola was another defendant in the Moon’s bar case. Outside the Rand Street home listed as his address, Kalala Fononga, who said she’s Bola’s aunt, was watering flowers. Fononga, who said Bola wasn’t there, said San Francisco police took her phone when they came to the house November 17, the day of the shooting. Bola had never used her phone, she said. “They made us lie down in the street,” said Fononga. “Even the kids.” She said police put a gun to at least one child’s head. Bola, who’s “a good kid,” was away at work when the police came, she said. “We have no idea what’s going on,” said Fononga. Police didn’t explain why they were visiting. “They were just telling us something happened in the city,” she said. She didn’t recognize a photo of Green that a reporter showed to her. Another woman at the house, who wouldn’t give her full name, said the family knows Green but doesn’t know anything about him, and she didn’t recall the last time she’d seen him. Shyy, the SFPD spokesman, said

he couldn’t confirm Fononga’s account, but he said police have served two search warrants in San Mateo. He couldn’t say where they had been served, what police had sought, or what they had retrieved. Asked whether police had spoken to Bola, Shyy said, “We can’t go into the details” of the investigation. Reached at his home on South Norfolk Street in San Mateo, James Leka Muasika, another defendant in the Moon’s case, declined to be interviewed. Andrew Pull Moeaki, the fourth defendant in the 2012 incident, lived on Gonzaga Street in East Palo Alto, according to court records. A woman at the home, who declined to share her name, said that Moeaki and Green are cousins, and she’s their aunt. Without being asked, she insisted that Moeaki had been at work the night of the shooting and hadn’t been with Green. She didn’t remember the last time she’d had contact with Green, and she didn’t have any idea where he is. “We just want [him] to come very peacefully. ... We don’t want anyone to shoot him,” the woman, who referred to Green as “my beautiful Michael,” said. She added, “I’m praying hard for Michael. All my family is praying for Michael.” Referring to Warren, the woman said, “We respect the lady. ... All our love is going to that family.” Police had not been to the house, she and another woman who was there said last week. In response to an interview request, Sil Warren, Melquiesha Warren’s aunt, said in an email this week, “We are preparing for her funeral,” so she didn’t know when she’d be able to talk. Like Green, Bola, Moeaki, and Muasika each also pleaded no contest to a battery charge. Bola was sentenced to two years of court probation, while Moeaki and Muasika received 18 months. Further details on Green’s crimi-

nal history in San Mateo County weren’t immediately available. San Francisco police are still trying to identify the Pacific Islander woman, and anyone else that was with Green on the night of Warren’s murder. Anyone with information in the case can contact the SFPD anonymous tip line at (415) 575- 4444. People may also text a tip to TIP411. Type SFPD in the subject line. The incident number is 130 973 739.t

On the web Online content this week includes the Out in the World column and a photo from the Department of Public Health’s recent transgender health fair. www.ebar.com.

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22 ••BBAY AYA AREA REAR REPORTER EPORTER • November December28-December 5-11, 2013 4, 2013

Milk-Moscone vigil

From page 6

was her heroin-addicted mother,” Leno said. “She thought this was her only option. When told the story of Harvey Milk, she realized she didn’t have to be like her mother. That’s giving up hope.” Former supervisor Carol Ruth Silver served alongside Milk on the board. “We are observing, not celebrating,” said Silver. She recalled how Milk reached across communities. “The little old ladies, the janitors, and the shopkeepers voted for Harvey because he was out there in their shops.” Lee praised Milk and Moscone’s leadership. “I don’t think I would be standing here as mayor were it not for the leadership of Harvey Milk and George Moscone,” said Lee, the first Asian American mayor in the city’s history. He recalled Milk’s support for people beyond the LGBT sphere. Both the mayor and gay Super-

Honda

From page 9

before allowing the House to take up the issue. As with ENDA, should the House take up immigration now it could inflame the GOP’s more conservative faction and propel more candidates to jump into House races. “He may be holding it hostage until March to see if he has the numbers,” said Honda of Boehner’s thinking about when, or if, to schedule a vote.

Lights out

From page 17

Some of the patrons were surprised to learn that the club was closing when the B.A.R. asked. “It used to be a tradition,” said Joseph Lagare, a 24-year-old gay man who has been a patron of Brix for the past two years. It is where he found his community when he moved to San Jose from Connecticut. At one time all he had to say was Brix and his friends knew to go to Power Hour on Mondays, he said, but it’s changed from being a gay club to a place where everyone gathers. Perhaps somewhere in the drive to embrace diversity, a gay club that welcomed everyone lost its appeal to the queer community. The owners and bar manager have their own opinions for why the club isn’t thriving as it once did. Rod Sichisler believes it’s because the bar needs to be “updated” and that’s why business has taken a dive. “Business has dropped off,” he said. “I believe because the space

Eviction

From page 1

stein had responded. Lactaoen said he and Brownstein were sending Ahmed a check for the rent that they’ve been paying, ignoring the increase. The rent board receipt notes that when the tenant doesn’t vacate the home, the landlord has to file an unlawful detainer complaint and serve the tenant with a summons, to which the tenant has five days to respond. Eventually, if the tenant loses the case, a court may order him to leave. However, an attachment to the November 25 document states, “The landlord should be aware that it is a serious violation of state and local law for a landlord to retaliate – or threaten to retaliate – against a tenant for the tenant’s peaceful exercise of any legal right(s), which includes the filing of a petition at the rent board.” Lactaoen, who receives a subsidy through the San Francisco AIDS

visor David Campos addressed the need to provide more homeless services, pointing out that 29 percent of the city’s homeless are LGBT. The need to slow the rising tide of Ellis Act evictions was also addressed. One person booed when Wiener was introduced. Several attendees asked the heckler to be silent. “This is meaningful for me as a gay man and a longtime Castro resident,” Wiener said. “I’m proud to represent Harvey Milk’s district.” Stuart Milk said people’s minds need to be changed. “We have to do more than change laws, we need to change minds,” said Stuart Milk. “We do that by teaching and remembering our history. I was 17 when my uncle died. He and I talked about my feeling different. He told me that my difference was a gift I needed to hold onto even if the world doesn’t know it was a gift.” The Gay Men’s Chorus sang “Give ‘em Hope” by Joseph M. Martin, which refers to one of Milk’s best remembered quotes.t

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Passage of either legislation could be beneficial to the 72-year-old Honda’s own re-election efforts next year. He is fending off a challenge by fellow Democrat Ro Khanna, 36, a Fremont resident and Silicon Valley technology lawyer. Asked why he was still interested in serving on Capitol Hill amid such partisan gridlock, Honda said for the simple reason there is more work to be done. “You don’t leave when there is a fight to be had,” he said.t

isn’t fresh and updated.” Colligan agreed, adding, “I’ve watched the business go from a thriving part of the community where everybody was having a great time and now it’s just kind of average.” In spite of doing everything from bringing in entertainers and DJs to lowering drink prices to draw a crowd, nothing worked, said Colligan. So it’s time to let the party end. “We have made some wonderful friends,” said Sichisler, sad to see Brix close. “There have been so many wonderful moments.” For years friends were made, hearts were broken, love was found and a lot of good times and memories were had at Brix. “It’s been a great experience ... we are carrying away more fun memories than we ever thought we would,” said Colligan. Brix is located at 349 South First Street. For Saturday’s party, there is no cover before 10 p.m., $5 after. For more information, visit http://brixnightclub.com.t

Foundation that covers about $600 of the rent each month, moved into the house two and a half years ago. Brownstein, a part-time piano teacher, joined him in February 2012. Along with the subsidy, Lactaoen also receives Social Security disability and private disability insurance. If they have to leave the house, the men say they couldn’t afford to stay in the city. Lactaoen said the thought of losing access to the quality health care he now receives “scares me.” What can also be scary is the area where the couple lives. Their home is in one of San Francisco’s roughest neighborhoods. Lactaoen said in recent weeks three people had been shot “just up the street from us.” However, he and Brownstein are “really comfortable” in the home, which he called “cute.” Brownstein said there’s been “some improvement” in the neighborhood, and “I would love to stay here” to see how it develops. t

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Rental Wanted>> Financially secure, healthy gay male, 53, seeks apt to share/inlaw to rent to $1000.00 or parttime assistant w/rent reduction. Please call Richard 415-400-4725

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Quiet disabled HIV+ 51yo artist seeking studio/in-law to rent for $1,000-$1,200. 415-6767152. More about me www. artistswithaids.org/artforms/ dance/catalogue/diaz.html

E47-49

SFGARDENING.COM Your Gay Gardener in SF JOHN GUGLIELMELLI 415-722-8655

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INTERIOR PAINTING & Small Ext Jobs. Quality Work. $10/hr. 415-618-9141

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SMB CONCRETE: Driveways, Walkways, Patios, Repairs, Overlay Concrete, Stamp Concrete, Design Concrete, Special Jobs! 20 years experience. No job too big or too small. Servicing the Entire Bay Area. Licensed & Bonded #987386. Call 650-422-0266 or 925-250-9338

E42-52

Electrician & Skilled Handyman w/ 15+ Years Exp. Specializing in Advanced Electrical, Data Cabling & A/V Installations. Licensed (#967131), Bonded & Insured. Free Quotes ~ Excellent Rates ~ Courteous Service (& Easy on the Eyes) Call Pete at All Star Wiring (510) 734-3950, allstarwiring@ yahoo.com

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Need an Electrician? Home or Office: Remodeling, Troubleshooting, Service Changes. No job too small. Low rates. Peter 415-577-1665. Lic#897793

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Read more online at www.ebar.com

Household Services>>

November 28-December 4, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 23

Legal Notices>>

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E49-52

Legal Notices>> FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035479100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: UPWARD BOUND MUSIC; UPWARD BOUND APPAREL; UPWARD BOUND ENTERPRISES; 680 COLBY ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed CHRISTOPHER E. HORN. 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 11/07/13.

NOV 14, 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035478700 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PHU QUY LIMOUSINE, 1356 THOMAS AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed TRAN DUNG. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/05/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/07/13.

NOV 14, 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035458300 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LANDMARK THEATRES EMBARCADERO CENTER CINEMA, 1 EMBARCADERO CENTER STE. PL1, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed CINEMA BEVERAGES HOLDING COMPANY, LLC (TX). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/28/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/28/13.

NOV 14, 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035475000 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SERVE PD, 987 RHODE ISLAND ST. #3, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed SERVE PD 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 11/05/13.

NOV 14, 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Dated 11/14/13 To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are: TAG 888 BRANNAN, INC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 33 New Montgomery St. #1230, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 888 BRANNAN ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. Type of license applied for

47 - ON-SALE GENERAL EATING PLACE NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Dated 10/15/13 To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are: VICTORIVIC LLC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 33 New Montgomery St. #1230, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 3348 STEINER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94123-2707. Type of license applied for

41 - ON-SALE BEER & WINE - EATING PLACE NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC13-549837 In the matter of the application of: WADE LEVAR ANDERSON NANDRAMSINGH, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner WADE LEVAR ANDERSON NANDRAMSINGH, is requesting that the name WADE LEVAR ANDERSON NANDRAMSINGH, be changed to ANDE NANDRAMSINGH. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Rm. 514 on the 19th of December 2013 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035459600

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035491300 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE QUEERIST, 1085 SOUTH VAN NESS #307, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed LISSA DOTY. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/21/08. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/15/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035485300 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: J & K CO., 2407 43RD AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed IVAN NGOK CHUN KWOK. 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 11/12/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035470300 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CASTELLANOS TRUCKING, 1788 19TH AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94127. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SANDRA J. CASTELLANOS. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/01/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/01/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035482600 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 4 TO THE FLOOR!, 290 TURK ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed KELLY KATHLEEN HALL. 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 11/08/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035454200 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: TEXIS JEWELERY, 2933 24TH ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed BERTA H. CAMPOS. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/24/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/24/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035454100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CAMPOS TRANSPORT, 2275 MISSION ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed BERTA H. CAMPOS. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/24/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/24/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035454101 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: JAIME’S JEWELRY, 2275 MISSION ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed BERTA H. CAMPOS. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/24/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/24/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035495700 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: YURPATH; YURPATH SOLUTIONS; 3 BAYSIDE VILLAGE PL. #219, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed KIMBERLY J. PUGH. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/14/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/18/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035494800 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MERCI LIMOUSINE, 749 LIBERTY ST., EL CERRITO, CA 94530. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SAID LAOUARI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/13/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/18/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035480100 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: EBISU RESTAURANT, 1283 9TH AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by a married couple, and is signed KATSUTOSHI STEPHEN & TAKAKO STEPHEN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/15/82. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/07/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035484700

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC13-549907 In the matter of the application of: DEIRDRE J.G. PORTER, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner DEIRDRE J.G. PORTER, is requesting that the name DEIRDRE J.G. PORTER, be changed to DEIRDRE PORTER. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Rm. 514 on the 16th of January 2014 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

NOV 14, 21, 28, DEC 05, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035483900 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NORTH AMERICA INFORMATIONAL EDUCATION ORGANIZATION, 287 TEDDY AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. This business is conducted by a general partnership, and is signed ZHIJIANG LU & RUNHUA ZHANG. 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 11/12/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035487800 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CHATIME, 2437 NORIEGA ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by a general partnership, and is signed JIAO LI & HONG WEI YIN. 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 11/13/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035458400 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAIWALKS, 3348 STEINER ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed VICTORIVIC, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/28/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/28/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035455800 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CALI’S FINEST PARTY BUS, 1577 OAKDALE AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed CALI’S FINEST PARTY BUS LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/24/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/24/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035458500 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BURRITO LOCO, 850 ULLOA ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94127. This business is conducted by a corporation and is signed FRIENDS DYNASTY, INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/28/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/28/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Dated 11/18/13 To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are: LORIS DINER INTERNATIONAL INC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 33 New Montgomery St. #1230, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 449 POWELL ST., 2ND, 3RD & 4TH FL., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102-1503. Type of license applied for

47 - ON-SALE GENERAL EATING PLACE NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Dated 11/20/13 To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are: SNAKEBITE LLC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 33 New Montgomery St. #1230, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 2200 MARKET ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114-1506. Type of license applied for

47 - ON-SALE GENERAL EATING PLACE NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC13-549946 In the matter of the application of: JOHN ANTHONY RYAN, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner JOHN ANTHONY RYAN is requesting that the name JABARI EZEKIEL FANNER be changed to JABARI EZEKIEL FANNER RYAN. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Dept. 514 on the 4th of February 2014 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 19, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035485500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ASPIRE SALON, 447 SUTTER ST. #428, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed AMANDA SIMPSON. 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 10/28/13.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CITYWIDE TAXI, 2060 NEWCOMB AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed BIG DOG CITY CORP (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/12/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/12/13.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE BASEMENT, 222 HYDE ST., SF, CA 94103. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed LARRY LIVINGSTON. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/12/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/12/13.

NOV 21, 28, DEC 05, 12, 2013

NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 19, 2013

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035496900 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MOTION STARVED, 2626 GOUGH ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed KELLEY D. HEYE. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/14/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/19/13.

NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 19, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035504500 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MARINA GRINS DENTAL, 3210 FILLMORE ST. #2, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by a corporation and is signed ELENA HEREDIA DDS, INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/22/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/22/13.

NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 19, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035490300 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BEL SF, 3215 MISSION ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a limited liability company and is signed BELAMIS 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 11/14/13.

NOV 28, DEC 05, 12, 19, 2013 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Dated 11/26/2013 To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are: SCHROEDERS PARTNERS L-PSHIP. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 33 New Montgomery St. #1230, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 240 FRONT ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111-4403. Type of license applied for

47 - ON-SALE GENERAL EATING PLACE DEC 05, 2013 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Dated 11/08/13 To Whom It May Concern: The name(s) of the applicant(s) is/are: NITE CAP BAR, INC. The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control at 33 New Montgomery St. #1230, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 to sell alcoholic beverages at 699 O’FARRELL ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109-7403. Type of license applied for

48 - ON-SALE GENERAL PUBLIC PREMISES DEC 05, 12, 19, 2013 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC13-549936 In the matter of the application of: KATHERINE ROSE COFFEY for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner KATHERINE ROSE COFFEY, is requesting that the name KATHERINE ROSE COFFEY be changed to RED ZACHARIAH ROSE COFFEY. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Rm. 514 on the 28th of January 2014 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035505900 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HONG KONG MONA HAIR STUDIO, 307 4TH AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed LIPING WU. 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 11/22/13.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035481800 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CAROUSEL CAFE, 221 4TH ST., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed IRENE HOFMANN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/08/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/08/13.

SUMMONS SOLANO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: RICHARD KING; ANNIE NGO; DOES 1 TO 10; YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: RAFAEL ARROYO, JR. CASE NO. FCM131920 Notice: You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp) your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. The name and address of the court is:

SOLANO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT, 321 TUOLUMNE ST., VALLEJO, CA 94590. The name, address, and telephone number of the plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is:

RAYMOND G. BALLISTER, JR., ESQ., CENTER FOR DISABILITY ACCESS, 9845 ERMA RD. #300, SAN DIEGO, CA 92131; (858) 375-7385. Date: Oct. 12, 2012; Clerk, by A. GARCIA, Deputy.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035514400 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: INTERCONNECTED STRATEGIES, 1061 CLAY ST. #1, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed MELANIE FRANCES GLEASON. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/27/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/02/13.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035516500 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SHUTTER SHELF, 929 PINE ST. #301, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed GLIB SMAGA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/03/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/03/13.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-035514200 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SF KANKO, 631 O’FARRELL ST. #1702, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed MANABU MORIKAWA. 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 12/02/13.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-032886500 The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: HONG KONG MONA HAIR STUDIO, 307 4TH AVE., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business was conducted by an individual and signed by LILY FENG XIU WU. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 07/02/10.

DEC 05, 12, 19, 26, 2013

In the Matter of Adoption of a MALE CHILD, Born on: 7/24/01

by Jason Keoni Fung, the legal spouse of Stephanie Loretta Fitiausi Fitiausi Fung, the child’s legal parent, Petitioners

THE STATE OF HAWAI’I TO: Joseph Elroy Conolly, Jr. CASE NUMBER FC-A NO. 13-1-6203

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a petition for adoption of the above-identified child born to Stephanie Loretta Fitiausi Fung, the child’s mother, has been filed in the Family Court, First Circuit, State of Hawai’i. THE PETITION ALLEGES that your consent to the adoption of the above-named child by the Petitioner(s) above-named is not required and may be dispensed with pursuant to Hawai’i Revised Statutes Section 578-2( c) as amended. A hearing on the Petition will be held on FEB 4, 2014 at 1:30p.m. at the Family Court, Kapolei Court Complex, 4675 Kapolei Parkway, Third Floor, Kapolei. IF YOU FAIL to appear at the hearing on date and time and at the place noted above or if you fail to file a written response to the allegations reflected in the Petition for Adoption, further action may be taken including the granting of the adoption without further notice to you. Your written response should be addressed to the Presiding Judge, Family Court, First Circuit, Kapolei Court Complex, 4675 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei, Hawai’i 96707-3272. FAILURE TO OBEY this notice may result in an entry of a default and default judgment against you. YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that the child, the adoptive parents and the natural parents have rights under H.R.S. Section 578-15 regarding confidentiality of adoption records after the child reaches age 18. Date Nov. 22, 2013, Signature of the Clerk: R. Molina

125357

y Area eporter

9.75x16 4C

Changing laws changed their lives The recent Supreme Court ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act led Greg and Peter to take a serious look at their investment planning needs. The rapidly changing legal landscape meant it was crucial that they worked with someone who was knowledgeable, so they turned to Wells Fargo Advisors. Our Financial Advisors who have the Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor (ADPA®) designation are well-versed on the current set of challenges, soçGreg and Peter walked away with a solid plan and confidence in the future. Let’s talk about your long-term investment planning needs. Because when people talk, great things happen. To find one of our ADPA-certified Financial Advisors in your area, visit wellsfargoadvisors.com/adpa today.

Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. Accredited Domestic Partnership AdvisorSM and ADPASM are service marks of the College for Financial Planning®. © 2013 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC. All rights reserved. 1125357 9.75x16 4c BAR.indd 1

10/29/13 11:19 AM

Divine right

Tristan variations

Buzz by Berkeley

Out &About

O&A

The

Vol. 43 • No. 49 • December 5-11, 2013

www.ebar.com/arts

A holiday show like no other by David-Elijah Nahmod

hristmas begins a few weeks early when the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus performs a holiday extravaganza unlike any they’ve done before. On December 6 at 8 p.m., SFGMC Artistic Director/Conductor Dr. Tim Seelig will lead the chorus’ 300 members in Shine! Our Brightest Holiday Show Ever. The guys will be performing at the War Memorial Opera House for the first time in two decades. The chorus will be joined by San Francisco Opera soprano Marina Harris. “Marina Harris is a rising star at SF Opera,” Seelig said to the B.A.R. “How can you perform at the opera house without an opera diva?” Seelig laughed as he recalled the e-mail exchange that resulted in Harris signing on for the show.

Members of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus in a previous Home for the Holidays concert.

See page 39 >> Courtesy of SFGMC

Making music & gay history by Sura Wood

he San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus is now a well-established mainstream city institution with an international reputation, but 35 years ago it was quite another story. The colorful development of this beloved organization over the last three decades, and its engagement with historical events affecting the gay community, unfold in streamlined, informative fashion in The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus: Celebrating 35 Years of Activism Through Song, a lovingly researched show at the GLBT History Museum. The exhibition traces the evolution of the SFGMC, the first openly gay choral group in the world, from its inception during the emotional tumult of 1978, when a newly formed,

fledgling chorus of 100 sang in public for the first time on the steps of City Hall the night Harvey Milk and George Moscone were assassinated. The saga continues through the anguish of the AIDS crisis and the LGBT community’s fight for equality on multiple fronts to the present. Today, the group’s 300-plus members give concerts at the San Francisco Opera House, perform commissioned original works at class-A venues, and play to capacity crowds at the Castro Theatre on Christmas Eve, a holiday tradition since 1990. “The chorus has always been a microcosm of what’s going on in the greater gay community, and we’ve been out there since Day 1,” notes exhibition curator Tom Burtch, a

Poster for a 1979 concert by the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. The San Francisco Chronicle declined to publish the graphic because the now tame-looking illustration did not meet its standards of appropriateness.

See page 39 >> Courtesy the GLBT Historical Society, San Francisco

{ SECOND OF TWO SECTIONS }

The

one

for me

Patient model. Pill shown is not actual size.

What is COMPLERA? COMPLERA® is a prescription HIV medicine that is used as a complete regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV medicines before and who have an amount of HIV in their blood (this is called “viral load”) that is no more than 100,000 copies/mL. COMPLERA contains 3 medicines – rilpivirine, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. It is not known if COMPLERA is safe and effective in children under the age of 18 years. COMPLERA® does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking COMPLERA. Avoid doing things that can spread HIV-1 to others: always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids; never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them, do not share personal items that may contain bodily fluids. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information you should know about COMPLERA? COMPLERA® can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold, especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat. • Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include 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, and/or stomach pain. • You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions. • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and stop taking COMPLERA, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking COMPLERA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health. COMPLERA is not approved for the treatment of HBV.

Who should not take COMPLERA? Do not take COMPLERA if you have ever taken other anti-HIV medicines. COMPLERA may change the effect of other medicines and may cause serious side effects. Your healthcare provider may change your other medicines or change their doses. Do not take COMPLERA if you also take these medicines: • anti-seizure medicines: carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol-XR, Teril, Epitol); oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), phenobarbital (Luminal), phenytoin (Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Phenytek) • anti-tuberculosis medicines: rifabutin (Mycobutin), rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane, Rifadin) and rifapentine (Priftin) • proton pump inhibitors for stomach or intestinal problems: esomeprazole (Nexium, Vimovo), lansoprazole (Prevacid), dexlansoprazole (Dexilant), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole sodium (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex) • more than 1 dose of the steroid medicine dexamethasone or dexamethasone sodium phosphate • St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) If you are taking COMPLERA you should not take other HIV medicines or other medicines containing tenofovir (Viread, Truvada, Stribild or Atripla); other medicines containing emtricitabine or lamivudine (Emtriva, Combivir, Epivir, Epivir-HBV, Epzicom, Trizivir, Atripla, Stribild or Truvada); rilpivirine (Edurant) or adefovir (Hepsera). In addition, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking the following medications because they may interfere with how COMPLERA works and may cause side effects: • certain antacid medicines containing aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate (examples: Rolaids, TUMS). These medicines must be taken at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after COMPLERA. • medicines to block stomach acid including cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine (Axid), or ranitidine HCL (Zantac). These medicines must be taken at least 12 hours before or 4 hours after COMPLERA. • any of these medicines: clarithromycin (Biaxin); erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab, PCE, Pediazole, Ilosone), fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral) methadone (Dolophine); posaconazole (Noxafil), telithromycin (Ketek) or voriconazole (Vfend). • medicines that are eliminated by the kidneys like acyclovir (Zovirax), cidofovir (Vistide), ganciclovir (Cytovene IV, Vitrasert), valacyclovir (Valtrex) and valganciclovir (Valcyte).

COMPLERA.

A complete HIV treatment in only 1 pill a day. COMPLERA is for adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before and have no more than 100,000 copies/mL of virus in their blood.

Ask your healthcare provider if it’s the one for you.

These are not all the medicines that may cause problems if you take COMPLERA. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking or plan to take.

The most common side effects reported with COMPLERA are trouble sleeping (insomnia), abnormal dreams, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, rash, tiredness, and depression. Some side effects also reported include vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, skin discoloration (small spots or freckles) and pain.

Before taking COMPLERA, tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have liver problems, including hepatitis B or C virus infection, or have abnormal liver tests • Have kidney problems • Have ever had a mental health problem • Have bone problems • Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if COMPLERA can harm your unborn child • Are breastfeeding: Women with HIV should not breastfeed because they can pass HIV through their milk to the baby. Also, COMPLERA may pass through breast milk and could cause harm to the baby

This is not a complete list of side effects. Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you notice any side effects while taking COMPLERA, and call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.

COMPLERA can cause additional serious side effects: New or worsening kidney problems, including kidney failure. If you have had kidney problems, or take other medicines that may cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider may need to do regular blood tests. • Depression or mood changes. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms: feeling sad or hopeless, feeling anxious or restless, have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself. • Changes in liver enzymes: People who have had hepatitis B or C, or who have had changes in their liver function tests in the past may have an increased risk for liver problems while taking COMPLERA. Some people without prior liver disease may also be at risk. Your healthcare provider may need to check your liver enzymes before and during treatment with COMPLERA. • Bone problems can happen in some people who take COMPLERA. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do additional tests to check your bones. • Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV medicine. • Changes in your immune system. 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 if you start having new symptoms after starting COMPLERA. •

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Additional Information about taking COMPLERA: • Always take COMPLERA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. • Take COMPLERA with food. Taking COMPLERA with food is important to help get the right amount of medicine in your body. (A protein drink does not replace food. If your healthcare provider stops COMPLERA, make certain you understand how to take your new medicine and whether you need to take your new medicine with a meal.) Stay under the care of your healthcare provider during treatment with COMPLERA and see your healthcare provider regularly. Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information with important warnings on the following pages.

Learn more at www.COMPLERA.com

Brief SummaryBrief of fullSummary Prescribing of full Information Prescribing Information

Worsening of• Hepatitis Worsening B infection. of Hepatitis If you B infection. have hepatitis If you Bhave virushepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (HBV) and take infection COMPLERA, and take your COMPLERA, HBV may get your worse HBV may get worse COMPLERA® (kom-PLEH-rah) COMPLERA® (kom-PLEH-rah) (flare-up) if you(flstop are-up) taking if you COMPLERA. stop taking A “flCOMPLERA. are-up” is when A “flare-up” is when (emtricitabine,(emtricitabine, rilpivirine, tenofovir rilpivirine, disoproxil tenofovir fumarate) disoproxil tablets fumarate) tablets your HBV infection yoursuddenly HBV infection returns suddenly in a worse returns way in than a worse before.way than before. Brief summary Brief of fullsummary Prescribing of full Information. Prescribing ForInformation. more information, For more information, COMPLERA is not COMPLERA approvedisfornottheapproved treatment forofthe HBV, treatment so you must of HBV, so you must please see the full please Prescribing see the full Information Prescribing including Information Patient including Patientdiscuss your HBV discuss with your yourhealthcare HBV with your provider. healthcare provider. Information. Information. – Do not let your– COMPLERA Do not let your run COMPLERA out. Refill your run prescription out. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare or talk to your provider healthcare before provider your COMPLERA before your is COMPLERA is What is COMPLERA? What is COMPLERA? all gone. all gone. • COMPLERA is• aCOMPLERA prescriptionisHIV a prescription (Human Immunodefi HIV (Human ciency Immunodefi Virus) ciency Virus) – Do not stop taking – Do not COMPLERA stop taking without COMPLERA first talking without to your first talking to your medicine that ismedicine used to treat that isHIV-1 usedintoadults treat HIV-1 in adults healthcare provider. healthcare provider. – who have never – who taken have HIVnever medicines taken before, HIV medicines and before, and – If you stop taking – If you COMPLERA, stop taking yourCOMPLERA, healthcareyour provider healthcare will provider will – who have an –amount who have of HIV an in amount their blood of HIV(this in their is called blood‘viral (this is called ‘viral need to check your needhealth to check often your andhealth do blood oftentests andregularly do blood to tests regularly to load’) that is noload’) more that thanis100,000 no morecopies/mL. than 100,000 Yourcopies/mL. healthcareYour healthcare check your HBVcheck infection. your Tell HBVyour infection. healthcare Tell your provider healthcare about provider about provider will measure provideryour willviral measure load. your viral load. any new or unusual any new symptoms or unusual you may symptoms have after you may you stop have after you stop taking COMPLERA. (HIV is the virus(HIV thatiscauses the virus AIDS that (Acquired causes AIDS Immunodefi (Acquired ciency Immunodeficiencytaking COMPLERA. Syndrome)). Syndrome)). Who should notWho takeshould COMPLERA? not take COMPLERA? • COMPLERA contains • COMPLERA 3 medicines contains – rilpivirine, 3 medicines emtricitabine, – rilpivirine, emtricitabine, Do not take if: COMPLERA if: tenofovir disoproxil tenofovir fumarate disoproxil – combined fumarate in one – combined tablet. Itinis one a tablet. Do It isnot a take COMPLERA • be • your complete regimen complete to treatregimen HIV-1 infection to treat HIV-1 and should infection not and be used should not yourused HIV infection has HIVbeen infection previously has been treated previously with HIVtreated medicines. with HIV medicines. with other HIV medicines. with other HIV medicines. • you are taking • any you of arethe taking following any ofmedicines: the following medicines: • It is not known • It if is COMPLERA not knownisifsafe COMPLERA and effective is safeinand children effective in children – anti-seizure –medicines: anti-seizure carbamazepine medicines: carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, (Carbatrol, Equetro, under the age ofunder 18 years the age old.of 18 years old. Tegretol, Tegretol-XR, Tegretol, Teril, Tegretol-XR, Epitol); oxcarbazepine Teril, Epitol); (Trileptal); oxcarbazepine (Trileptal); •

•

• COMPLERA phenobarbital (Luminal); phenobarbital phenytoin (Luminal); (Dilantin, phenytoin Dilantin-125, (Dilantin, Dilantin-125, COMPLERA does not cure HIV doesinfection not cureorHIV AIDS. infection You must or AIDS. stay You must stay Phenytek) on continuous therapy on continuous to control therapy HIV infection to controland HIVdecrease infectionHIVand decrease Phenytek) HIVrelated illnesses. related illnesses. – anti-tuberculosis – anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) medicines: (anti-TB) rifabutin medicines: (Mycobutin); rifabutin (Mycobutin);

rifampin (Rifater, rifampin Rifamate, (Rifater, Rimactane, Rifamate, Rifadin); Rimactane, rifapentine Rifadin); rifapentine • Ask your Ask your healthcare provider healthcare if you provider have anyifquestions you have about any questions about (Priftin) how to preventhow passing to prevent HIV to passing other people. HIV toDo other not people. share or Do not share or(Priftin) re-use needles re-use or otherneedles injection or equipment, other injection andequipment, do not share and do not share – proton pump–inhibitor proton pump (PPI) inhibitor medicine(PPI) for certain medicine stomach for certain stomach personal items personal that can items have blood that can or body havefluids bloodonorthem, body fllike uids on them, like or intestinal problems: or intestinal esomeprazole problems:(Nexium, esomeprazole Vimovo); (Nexium, Vimovo); toothbrushes and toothbrushes razor blades. andAlways razor blades. practiceAlways safer sex practice by using safer sex by lansoprazole using (Prevacid); lansoprazole dexlansoprazole (Prevacid); dexlansoprazole (Dexilant); (Dexilant); a latex or polyurethane a latex orcondom polyurethane to lowercondom the chance to lower of sexual the chance of sexualomeprazole (Prilosec, omeprazole Zegerid); (Prilosec, pantoprazole Zegerid);sodium pantoprazole (Protonix); sodium (Protonix); contact with semen, contact vaginal with semen, fluids orvaginal blood. fluids or blood. rabeprazole (Aciphex) rabeprazole (Aciphex)

What is the most What important is the most information important I should information know I should know about COMPLERA? about COMPLERA?

– more than 1 dose – more of the thansteroid 1 dosemedicine of the steroid dexamethasone medicine dexamethasone or or dexamethasonedexamethasone sodium phosphate sodium phosphate

COMPLERA canCOMPLERA cause serious canside cause effects, serious including: side effects, including:

– St. John’s wort– (Hypericum St. John’s wort perforatum) (Hypericum perforatum)

•

• If you take COMPLERA, • If you take youCOMPLERA, should not you take: should not take: • acid Build-up of an Build-up in your of an blood acid(lactic in your acidosis). blood (lactic Lacticacidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen acidosis in some can happen people in who some takepeople COMPLERA who take or COMPLERA–orOther medicines – Other that medicines contain tenofovir that contain (Atripla, tenofovir Stribild, (Atripla, Stribild, similar (nucleoside similar analogs) (nucleoside medicines. analogs) Lactic medicines. acidosis Lactic is acidosis is Truvada, Viread)Truvada, Viread) a serious medical a serious emergency medical thatemergency can lead tothat death. canLactic lead to death. Lactic – Other medicines – Other that medicines contain emtricitabine that containoremtricitabine lamivudine or lamivudine acidosis can beacidosis hard to identify can be hard early,tobecause identify the early, symptoms because the symptoms (Combivir, Emtriva, (Combivir, Epivir Emtriva, or Epivir-HBV, EpivirEpzicom, or Epivir-HBV, Trizivir,Epzicom, Trizivir, could seem likecould symptoms seem of likeother symptoms health of problems. other health Call your problems. Call your Atripla, Truvada, Atripla, Stribild) Truvada, Stribild) healthcare provider healthcare right away provider if you right getaway any of if you the following get any of the following symptoms which symptoms could bewhich signs could of lactic be signs acidosis: of lactic acidosis: – rilpivirine (Edurant) – rilpivirine (Edurant) – feel very weak– orfeel tired very weak or tired – adefovir (Hepsera) – adefovir (Hepsera)

– have unusual–(not havenormal) unusual muscle (not normal) pain muscle pain

What should I tell What myshould healthcare I tell my provider healthcare beforeprovider before taking COMPLERA? taking COMPLERA? – have stomach– pain havewith stomach nausea pain (feeling with nausea sick to (feeling your stomach) sick to your stomach) Before you takeBefore COMPLERA, you take tellCOMPLERA, your healthcare tell your provider healthcare if you:provider if you: or vomiting or vomiting • have or had liver • have problems, or hadincluding liver problems, hepatitis including B or C hepatitis virus infection, B or C virus infection, – feel cold, especially – feel cold, in your especially arms and in legs your arms and legs kidney problems,kidney mentalproblems, health problem mental or health boneproblem problemsor bone problems – feel dizzy or lightheaded – feel dizzy or lightheaded • are pregnant•orare plan pregnant to become or plan pregnant. to become It is not pregnant. known Itif is not known if COMPLERA can COMPLERA harm your unborn can harm child. your unborn child. – have a fast or–irregular have a fast heartbeat or irregular heartbeat – have trouble –breathing have trouble breathing

•

Registry. Pregnancy There Registry. is a pregnancy There is registry a pregnancy for women registry who for women who Severe liver •problems. Severe liver Severe problems. liver problems Severe can liverhappen problems in can happenPregnancy in take antiviral medicines take antiviral during medicines pregnancy. during The pregnancy. purpose of The this purpose of this people who takepeople COMPLERA. who take In some COMPLERA. cases, In these some liver cases, problems these liver problems registry is to collect registry information is to collect about information the health about of you the and health your of you and your can lead to death. canYour leadliver to death. may become Your liver large may(hepatomegaly) become large (hepatomegaly) baby. healthcare Talk to your provider healthcare about how provider you can about take how you can take and you may develop and you fatmay in your develop liver fat (steatosis). in your liver Call(steatosis). your Call yourbaby. Talk to your part in this registry. part in this registry. healthcare provider healthcare right away provider if you right getaway any of if you the following get any of the following symptoms of liver symptoms problems: of liver problems: • are breast-feeding • are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. or plan to Youbreast-feed. should notYou should not breastfeed if you breastfeed have HIVifbecause you haveofHIV thebecause risk of passing of the risk HIV of passing HIV – your skin or the – your whiteskin partoroftheyour white eyespart turns of your yellow eyes (jaundice) turns yellow (jaundice) to your baby. Dotonot your breastfeed baby. Do ifnotyou breastfeed are takingif COMPLERA. you are taking COMPLERA. – dark “tea-colored” – darkurine “tea-colored” urine At least two of the At least medicines two ofcontained the medicines in COMPLERA containedcan in COMPLERA be can be – light-colored –bowel light-colored movements bowel (stools) movements (stools) passed to your baby passed in to your your breast babymilk. in your Webreast do notmilk. knowWe whether do not know whether this could harmthis yourcould baby.harm Talk your to your baby. healthcare Talk to your provider healthcare about provider about – loss of appetite – loss for several of appetite daysfor or several longer days or longer the best way to the feedbest yourway baby. to feed your baby. – nausea – nausea Tell your healthcare Tell your provider healthcare aboutprovider all the medicines about all the you medicines take, you take, – stomach pain– stomach pain including prescription including andprescription nonprescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, medicines, vitamins, andliver herbal supplements. and herbal supplements. • Youlikely You may be more may be to get more lactic likelyacidosis to get lactic or severe acidosis liver or severe problems if youproblems are female, if you very areoverweight female, very (obese), overweight or have (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA been taking for COMPLERA a long time.for a long time.

• COMPLERA • Changes COMPLERA may affect themay way affect other medicines the way other work, medicines and work,•and Changes in your immuneinsystem your immune (Immune system Reconstitution (Immune Reconstitution other medicines other maymedicines affect howmay COMPLERA affect how works, COMPLERA and mayworks, and Syndrome) may canSyndrome) happen when canyou happen start when takingyou HIVstart medicines. taking HIV medicines. cause serious side causeeffects. seriousIf side you take effects. certain If you medicines take certain withmedicines Your with immune system Your immune may getsystem stronger may andgetbegin stronger to fight and begin to fight COMPLERA, theCOMPLERA, amount of COMPLERA the amountinofyour COMPLERA body may in be your toobody may beinfections too that infections have been that hidden have in been your body hidden forina your long body time.for a long time. low and it may low not work and ittomay helpnot control work your to help HIVcontrol infection. yourThe HIVHIV infection. Tell Theyour HIV healthcare Tell your provider healthcare if you start provider having if you new start symptoms having new symptoms virus in your body virus may in become your body resistant may become to COMPLERA resistantortoother COMPLERA or other after starting your afterHIV starting medicine. your HIV medicine. HIV medicines that HIV medicines are like it. that are like it. The most common Theside mosteffects common of COMPLERA side effectsinclude: of COMPLERA include: Especially tell your Especially healthcare tell your provider healthcare if you provider take: if you take: • • trouble trouble sleeping (insomnia) sleeping (insomnia) • an antacid medicine • an antacid that contains medicinealuminum, that contains magnesium aluminum, magnesium • abnormal dreams • abnormal dreams hydroxide, or calcium hydroxide, carbonate. or calcium If you carbonate. take an antacid If you take during an antacid during • headache • headache treatment with treatment COMPLERA,with takeCOMPLERA, the antacidtake at least the antacid 2 hoursat least 2 hours before or at least before 4 hours or atafter leastyou 4 hours take COMPLERA. after you take COMPLERA. • dizziness • dizziness • a medicine to• block a medicine the acidtoinblock yourthe stomach, acid inincluding your stomach, including• diarrhea • diarrhea cimetidine (Tagamet), cimetidine famotidine (Tagamet), (Pepcid), famotidine nizatidine (Pepcid), (Axid), nizatidine (Axid), • nausea • nausea or ranitidine hydrochloride or ranitidine(Zantac). hydrochloride If you(Zantac). take one of If you these take one of these • rash • rash medicines during medicines treatment during with treatment COMPLERA,with takeCOMPLERA, the acid take the acid blocker at leastblocker 12 hours at least before12orhours at least before 4 hours or atafter leastyou 4 hours after you • tiredness • tiredness take COMPLERA.take COMPLERA. • depression • depression • any of these medicines • any of these (if taken medicines by mouth (if taken or injection): by mouth or injection): Additional common Additional side effects common include: side effects include: – clarithromycin– (Biaxin) clarithromycin (Biaxin) • vomiting • vomiting – erythromycin –(E-Mycin, erythromycin Eryc, (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, PCE, Eryc,Pediazole, Ery-Tab, PCE, Ilosone) Pediazole, Ilosone) • stomach pain• orstomach discomfort pain or discomfort – fluconazole (Difl – flucan) uconazole (Diflucan) • skin discoloration • skin(small discoloration spots or (small freckles) spots or freckles) – itraconazole (Sporanox) – itraconazole (Sporanox) • pain • pain – ketoconazole –(Nizoral) ketoconazole (Nizoral) Tell your healthcare Tell your provider healthcare if you have provider any ifside youeffect have any thatside bothers effect that bothers – methadone (Dolophine) – methadone (Dolophine) you or that doesyou notorgothat away. does not go away. – posaconazole–(Noxafi posaconazole l) (Noxafil) These are not allThese the possible are not all side theeffects possible of COMPLERA. side effects For of COMPLERA. more For more •

– telithromycin–(Ketek) telithromycin (Ketek)

information, askinformation, your healthcare ask your provider healthcare or pharmacist. provider or pharmacist.

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<< Out There

30 • Bay Area Reporter • December 5-11, 2013

Wining & dining our way around the Bay by Roberto Friedman

n acquaintance of Out There’s who grew up in Santa Rosa was describing nearby Healdsburg back in his salad days, and how his crowd hung out at an old dive bar there that has since been gentrified into mixologist heaven. When we were offered the chance to spend a day exploring the new Healdsburg last month, we jumped at the chance. Our first stop was Healdsburg SHED, a beautifully designed new complex housing a café, fermentation bar, home-and-garden store, pantry, and modern grange hall. SHED showcases locally sourced foods in a larder stocked full of cheeses and breads, charcuterie, and condiments. An Austrian pine-encased stone mill churns out whole grains. Most of the produce on offer is grown within a 10-mile radius of the place. From the fermentation bar we

sampled a “Shrub,” a delightful drink made with peaches harvested at SHED’s “home farm” in Dry Creek Valley. Then we were treated to lunch in the café highlighted by a salad of spiced delicata, kabocha and butternut squash with barley, tahini-yogurt dressing, cilantro and sesame seeds. Our Kasespatzle mixed egg noodles with chanterelle mushrooms, Gruyere cheese and herbs, yum! The Grange room upstairs hosts community dinners honoring local farmers, workshops on composting and cheesemaking, and classes on watershed issues. This is a farm-to-table operation clearly committed to the roots of agriculture and winemaking in its own backyard. Next we toured the unique luxury accommodation Wheelman House, a classic Quonset hut converted into glamorous junior suites on offer to the Inspirato destination club. The half-barrel ceiling from the original building converts quite

Courtesy Healdsburg SHED

Healdsburg SHED houses a pantry, home-and-garden shop, fermentation bar and grange hall.

nicely into a cathedral vault-style interior arch, fitted with wooden panels. Each suite has its own private courtyard with a water feature, garden and art. This is inspired recycling and repurposing of vernacular architecture, from corrugated metal to first-class luxe. A trip to Wine Country wouldn’t be complete without dipping into a few tasting rooms, so we visited the new hot-spots Valdez, Banshee and Cartograph, each offering impeccable Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs in commodious spaces right off Healdsburg’s charming town square. We followed up with small bites paired with vinos at Partake by K-J, and finally a long and luxurious dinner at Chalkboard, the new musttry dining room in town. Thanks to all of our gracious hosts, and to the Hotel Healdsburg, which put us up for the night in fine style, because we certainly were in no condition to drive back to the city!

Naked wine

It was a marathon week in sampling the treasures of the Bay Area for Out There. No sooner were we back in town than we joined handsome winemaker Fintan “Fin” du Fresne from Chamisal Vineyards for a progressive lunch and winetasting at Americano restaurant in the Hotel Vitale. Chamisal was the first vineyard planted in the Edna Valley around San Luis Obispo, and has been producing wines since

1973. Created without the use of any oak or malolactic fermentation, Chamisal’s Stainless Collection is fermented in stainless steel over several months, then goes straight into the bottle so that the pure characteristics of the wine shine through. As du Fresne said, it’s like drinking Pinot Noir “naked” – the only unoaked PN in America we know of – without the fruit-forward, high-alcohol qualities we’ve come to expect from modern vinos. OT has had our fill of buttery, oaky chards, so we’re right on board with the Chamisal technique. TV goddess Oprah once called San Luis Obispo the “happiest town in America,” and maybe this is why. The next night we were invited to the Hyatt Regency San Francisco for its holiday media preview party. We’re always excited to see the holiday “snow” wafting down into the Hyatt Regency’s lobby, which makes the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest atrium lobby in the world. And that’s not just the holiday egg-nog talking. Let it shnow, let it shnow, let it shnow. Very next day we were thrilled to be a part of the press lunch as new Executive Chef Parke Ulrich unveiled his menu at Epic Roasthouse on the Embarcadero. Renowned for his elegant preparations of seafood at Waterbar, Ulrich brings similar techniques to Epic’s justly famous meat-based fare. We began with housemade charcuterie washed down with Heidrun, a naturally sparkling mead from Point Reyes. Four courses and dessert followed, paired with a Riesling, a Viognier blend, and Epic’s own Napa cabernet. Salads and sashimi gave way to bone marrow & Dungeness crab gratin, braised pork belly, Dover sole and roasted swordfish. Then came the serious meats: pork “stinco” with spaetzle, roots & porcini gremolata; wagyu short ribs “a la Ficelle”; dry-aged New York bonein steak and cote de boeuf, these last two procured by famed SF butcher Bryan Flannery. Sides, such as

Courtesy Chamisal Vineyards

Chamisal Vineyards winemaker Fintan “Fin” du Fresne.

Ulrich’s mom’s “Julia Child potatoes,” and desserts, such as a honey roasted pear cake, were deluxe as well. Epic’s cozy dining room, with its fantastic views of the Bay and its Bridge, and the simpatico company of fellow pressies, put the seal on a truly memorable meal. Our marathon of press events didn’t end there, as the following night brought the inauguration celebration of NEMA’s luxury rental complex on 10th St. at Market. We were curious to tour the furnished model units – one came complete with a male model splashing about in his bubble bath – and their spectacular 16th-floor views. The party was on the third-floor “urban terrace,” featuring a heated saline pool, outdoor TVs and a fire pit. Costumed stuntmen and women roamed the celebration, and libations poured. Welcome to the Twitter neighborhood. We’d like our city to boast these luxe units, for young techies and others who can spring for them, as well as truly affordable housing, for the rest of us. Driving away the creative if non-moneyed classes – writers, artists, editors, landscapers – will make the city a dullards’ delight, no matter how fabulous the view.t

Epic Roasthouse

Epic Roasthouse’s new Executive Chef Parke Ulrich.

Film>>

December 5-11, 2013 • Bay Area Reporter • 31

December delights at the Castro Theatre by David Lamble

he Castro Theatre delivers an operatically eclectic December calendar, from the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus’ Christmas Eve concerts to my favorite Marx Brothers comedy slam, A Night at the Opera (12/30). Our survey kicks off with a modern queer doc classic. I Am Divine It’s a warm, early70s summer day in Austin, Texas, and I’m strolling along Guadalupe, “The Drag,” with my buddies Troy and Ronnie. We’ve just caught Divine wrapping her lips around a dog turd in John Waters’ Pink Flamingos at Dobie Cinemas. My queerculture baby teeth had been cut on Andy Warhol’s Lonesome Cowboys, but this was definitely a whole other drag planet. My friends treated Flamingos as just another of the bizarro events peppering the fringe of the UT campus, while I would be pushed along a curve of energy leading to radio chats with drag illuminati Charles Busch, Charles Pierce, Ethyl Eichelberger and Justin Vivian Bond. Jeffrey Schwarz’s intimate, hilarious and heartbreaking portrait of Harris Glenn Milstead, a.k.a. Divine, kicks off a decade-and-a-half after I was struck by the Divine/Waters fairy wand. It’s the evening of Feb. 16, 1988, the world premiere of the movie Hairspray in Baltimore, with the city’s African American mayor giving the Divine/Waters team their hometown’s official seal of approval, inducting them into their weird burg’s hall of fame, joining such more respectable luminaries as Anne Tyler and Barry Levinson. It may have been the greatest night in Divine’s life, and sadly the last, as he would, within hours, die in his sleep. Schwarz gives us a totally candid This Was Your Life, Divine, with a

Harris Glenn Milstead, a.k.a. Divine, in director Jeffrey Schwarz’s I Am Divine: an unbelievable stab at stardom.

roll call of the performer’s childhood friends and early observers of his unbelievable stab at stardom. Glenn’s mom recalls the doctor informing her that her boy might be gender-challenged. A female friend notes the fast crowd that the teenage Glenn hooked up with. “We were freaks, we weren’t hippies. Freaks drank, ate meat, and did drugs.” Waters, noting that he and Glenn/ Divine didn’t really bond until they were about 17, recalls an early movie moment. “Divine and I were the only people who ever saw Bergman movies on LSD. Hour of the Wolf, where she pulls her face off, that really freaked Divine out!” (12/9) Gravity This lost-in-space instant classic from Mexican auteur Alfonso Cuaron rocks in 3-D because the space junk threatening the lives of astronauts George Clooney and Sandra Bullock really makes a dramatic impression when it’s hurtling your way. (12/10-11) Some Like It Hot A gem of a double-bill bookends the arc of the

hottest creative streak of onetimeGerman/Jewish, Austrian-born journalist/gigolo/director Billy Wilder. Wilder’s delicious screwball romp is still the top farce featuring men in dresses that hews to character and story. Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis are hilariously in synch as two feuding out-of-work musicians donning dresses to survive the Prohibition-era Chicago mob’s St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Marilyn Monroe shines as the hot-blooded Sugar Cane, her last great performance for the only director who worked with her more than once. The very hetero Wilder still holds the record for the best-ever filmending, gender-bending one-liner, as Lemmon’s Daphne yanks off his wig to confront his millionaire future husband. “Osgood, I’m a man!” “Nobody’s perfect.” The Fortune Cookie Walter Matthau absolutely crushes the first of his pairings with Jack Lemmon. This Billy Wilder/A.I.L. Diamond-

Slimmed-down Walter Matthau in director Billy Wilder’s The Fortune Cookie.

penned insurance-scam caper – a sort of sequel to the team’s fiveOscar 1960 masterpiece, The Apartment – finds Lemmon’s schnook, a TV cameraman injured while shooting a Browns-Vikings game, falling prey to his shyster brotherin-law’s scheme to claw a million bucks from the Browns and CBS. Wilder cast Matthau on the strength of his Tony turn as Broadway’s Oscar Madison in The Odd Couple. Matthau blends Groucho’s insinuating slouch and W.C. Fields’ deadpan one-liners with a wicked knack for finding dark humor in the worst side of our nature. Matthau’s Best Supporting Actor Oscar for Cookie would ignite a leading-man career that careened across categories from Hello, Dolly! to The Bad News Bears. A film that traffics in wire-tapping private eyes, gambling nuns and drug-dispensing racetrack touts also features Hollywood’s most spectacular on-screen crash diet: Matthau, hospitalized for three months after a massive heart attack,

can be seen opening a door weighing 198 lbs., then entering the room at a trim 160. (both 12/29) Blue Jasmine Cate Blanchett is over the moon in the strongest Woody Allen drama since Match Point. Allen hands the Australian actress some juicy material. It’s not often anyone gets to emote through a script inspired by two of the country’s finest tragedians, Tennessee Williams and Bernard Madoff. (1/2) Bettie Page Reveals All (opens Friday at Landmark Theatres) If the small-town gal who was Bettie Page had never existed, Playboy magazine founder Hugh Hefner might have dreamed her up himself. And in a sense, he did. In Oscar-nominated director Mark Mori’s absorbing culture doc, the pajama-attired Hefner sits inside his mansion and describes what was so special about the Nashville-born pin-up model who became an unlikely soldier in the 1960s sexual revolution. We observe how Page combined physical beauty, personal audacity, and a surprisingly clean-cut image, becoming the very embodiment of Hefner’s drive to make straight boys feel like diving into a slick package of soft-core erotica and big-league consumerism. In an interview recorded just before her death, Page narrates her lifetime battle against censorship and repression. This doc, intended as both an insider’s view and a rebuttal to aspects of director Mary Harron’s acclaimed 2005 narrative The Notorious Bettie Page, boasts a lively soundtrack featuring Los Straightjackets and Jack Rabbit Slim. Mori is heartbreakingly precise about Bettie’s post-pin-up decline, resulting in a nine-year commitment for a religious-fueled mental breakdown.t Info: www.castrotheatre.com

LIGHTS DIM. CREATURES STIR.

A uniquely San Francisco Nutcracker.

DEC 11–29 “The jewel in San Francisco’s holiday entertainment crown!”— Los Angeles Times

BUY TICKETS NOW!

sfballet.org

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<< Out&About

32 • Bay area reporter • December 5-11, 2013

O&A

Fri 6 Avenue Q @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

Out &About

Fri 6

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus

Decemberism by Jim Provenzano

s we head into the first week of the year’s last month, have you noticed something different in the air, the feeling of giving and celebration? It’s certainly noticeable from my PR in-box, as dozens of spectacles, witty and holiday-themed musical and classic choral concerts open. Oh, and we got puppets, naked ones.

Thu 5 Arlington @ Magic Theatre Victor Lodato and Polly Pen’s dramatic musical about a soldier’s wife and her sacriﬁces and doubts. $20-$60. Tue 7pm. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2:30, 7pm. Fort Mason Center, Building D, 3rd ﬂoor. 441-8822. www.magictheatre.org

Betty Buckley @ Feinstein at the Nikko The iconic Broadway, ﬁlm and TV singer-actress performs The Vixens of Broadway, her cabaret show of classic “other women,” aka second female leads in hit musicals ( Chicago, Evita, Company, Oklahoma, Into the Woods). $50-$80. Dec 5 & 12, 8pm. Dec. 6 & 13, 8pm. Dec 7 & 14, 7pm. Dec 8 & 15, 7pm. Thru Dec. 15. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St.(866) 663-1063. www.ticketweb.com

The Book of Mormon @ Orpheum Theatre The mega-hit multi-award-winning musical comedy parody about the wacky religion returns. Ticket lottery $29. Other $80-$210. Tue-Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm. Sun 1pm & 6:30pm. 1192 Market St. (888) 746-1799. www.shnsf.com

Cirque du Soleil @ AT&T Park

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians @ Various Cinemas Rifftrax, cast members from Mystery Science Theatre 3000, send up the amazingly awful sciﬁ holiday movie. $15. 8pm. SF Cinearts Empire 3, Century 9 SF Centre, and other Bay Area locations. www.rifftrax.com www.fathomevents.com

Scott Wells & Dancers @ ODC Theater Wells and collaborator Sheldon B. Smith premiere Father On, a new dance work about 21st-century parenting. $20-$25. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Dec. 8. 3153 17th St. 863-9834. scottwellsdance.com www.odcdance.org

Sing-Along The Sound of Music @ Castro Theatre Enjoy the Julie Andrews classic ﬁlm adaptation of the rodgers & Hammerstein musical about an Austrian family and their ex-nun governess who escape Nazi oppression through the wonders of singing. Laurie Bushman and friends host, with a costume contest, subtitles, and more of our favorite things. Pre-show concert of Barbary Coast music with Blackie Norton’s Paradise Club Band. $12-$15. 7pm nightly (no show Dec. 6). Also at 1pm Dec. 7 & 8. Thru Dec. 8. 429 Castro St. castrotheatre.com

The Black Rock Arts Foundation (the Burning Man folks) present aparticipatory walk along scenic areas of downtown; come dressed up in your favorite lighted playa-style costumes to match outdoor installations of LED sculptures. 5:30-8:30pm. North Beach to Embarcadero, Pier 15 to an after-party (21+) at the Exploratorium. www.BlackrockArts.org

Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi Musical comedy revue, now in its 35th year, with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs. Holiday shows, including tap-dancing Christmas trees and more thematic characters, now on sale. Reg: $25-$130. Wed, Thu, Fri at 8pm. Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm. (Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com

A Christmas Carol @ Geary Theater American Conservatory Theater’s 37th annual lively and lavish musical production of Paul Walsh and Carey Perloff’s stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story stars James Carpenter (Scrooge), Ken Ruta (the Ghost of Marley) and many of A.C.T.’s MFA and Young Conservatory students. $20-$95. Wed-sat 7pm (no show Dec. 24, 26, 28). Sundays 5:30pm. Several 1pm & 2pm matinees. Thru Dec. 28. Geary Theatre, 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org

Christmas With the Crawfords @ Lincoln Performing Arts Center, Yountville Katya Smirnoff-Skyy, Connie Champagne and a host of drag talents perform a unique revival of the classic parody of actress Joan Crawford’s holiday show. Pre-show concert by Well-Strung, the men’s string quartet. Special cocktail party bus to and from San Francisco and Yountville. $45-$55. $125 VIP tickets include wine, hors d’eouvres and a private reception. 7pm. Also Dec. 7. (707) 9449900. www.lincolntheatre.com

The Golden Girls @ Victoria Theatre Heklina, Cookie Dough, Matthew Martin, Pollo Del Mar and guest performers haul out the classic senior women’s TV show scripts and do drag parodies. $30. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Dec. 22. 2961 16th St. at Mission. www.trannyshack.com

Good Vibration’s Quickies @ Castro Theatre

Holiday Crafts Fair @ Dance Palace, Point Reyes

Thu 5

The Book of Mormon

Annual showcase of local arts and crafts on sale. 4pm-9pm. Also Dec. 7 & 8, 10am5pm. Point Reyes Station. 663-1075. www.dancepalace.org

Ideation @ Tides Theatre SF Playhouse performs Aaron Loeb’s darkly comic suspense thriller about corporate consultants who aren’t quite sure about an ethically ambiguous project. $10-$20. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Also Sat 3pm. Thru Dec. 7. 533 Sutter St. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org

Josh Klipp and The Klipptones @ Palace Hotel

Potted Potter @ Marines’ Memorial Theatre

The local jazz crooner and his band perform weekly shows at the hotel’s lounge, which draws a growing swingdance audience. 7pm-11pm. 2 New Montgomery. www.joshklipp.com

Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner’s two-man musical parody of all seven Harry Potter books, in 70 minutes, stops through town along its world tour. $56-$100. Tue-Thu 7:30pm. Gri & sat. 8pm. Sat 2pm. Sun 1pm & 4pm. Thru Dec. 8. 609 Sutter St. (888) 746-1799. www.pottedpotter.com www.shnsf.com

Keith Hennessy, Hana Lee Erdman, Jassem Hindi @ CounterPulse The three performance artists premiere a trio of their own and co-created works. $15-$20. 8pm. Also Dec. 7. 1310 Mission St. 626-2060. www.counterpulse.org

Printz Dance Project @ Z Space Soul+Mates, a dance, ﬁlm and photographic exhibit by Stacey Printz, Teresa Brazen, Sean Riley and Andre Hermann that explores the nature of human connection. $22-$30. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sat 4pm. Thru Dec. 7. 450 Florida St. (866) 811-4111. www.printzdance.org

Robert Lopez, Jeff Marx and Jeff Whitty’s Tony Award-winning puppet/human musical parody of Sesame Street gets a local production. Warning: not for kids and includes puppet nudity! $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Jan. 12. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

The sex shop company’s 8th annual short erotic ﬁlm competition features sexy ﬂicks, with hosts D’Arcy Drollinger, Carol Queen Hugs Bunny and Trixie Carr. $10-$20. 18+ only! Pre-party 7pm. Screening 8pm. 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.goodvibesquickies.com

The visually stunning Montreal circus brings their new show Amaluna, loosely based on Shakepeare’s The Tempest, to their big tent. $50-$140. Tue-Sat 8pm. Fri-Sun 4:30pm. Also Sun. 1pm. Thru Dec. 31. Third St. at Terry A. Francois Blvd. www.cirquedusoleil.com

IlluminArts Walk @ Embarcadero, Exploratorium

Tim Teeman @ Books Inc. Author of In Bed With Gore Vidal, the biography of the proliﬁc author, reads from and discusses his book. 7:30pm. 2275 Market St. 864-6777. www.booksinc.net

My Beautiful Laundrette @ New Conservatory Theatre Center U.S. premiere of Hanif Kureishi’s tale (adapted by Andy Gram and Roger Parsley) about two gay men in 1980s England and their unlikely romance spurred by coowning a laundromat. $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec. 22. 25 Van Ness Ave at Oak. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

Thu 5 Sing-Along The Sound of Music

New Frequencies Fest @ YBCA

Top Guys @ Stage Werx Theatre

Two-day festival of music from South America and Latin American cultures. $20$30. 8pm. Also Dec. 7. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. www.ybca.org

SF Indie presents a wacky stage parody of the the ‘80s Tom Cruise ﬁlm Top Gun. $20. Wed-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec. 14. 466 Valencia St. at 15th. 820-3907. www.sﬁndie.com

The Oy of Sex @ The Marsh

Tristan & Yseult @ Berkeley Repertory

Alicia Dattner’s solo show explores her life with ex-boyfriends, family, love addiction, and how they all sometimes clash. Thu & Fri 8pm. Sat 8:30pm. $20-$100. Thru Jan. 18. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

The Pianist of Willesden Lane @ Berkeley Rep Acclaimed pianist and storyteller Mona Golabek performs the solo stage adaptation of her book (co-written with Lee Cohen) about her mother when she was a young Jewish musician trying to survive the Nazi Germany regime. $29$89. 8pm (other Wed 7pm) Thu-Sat 8pm. Also Sat & Sun 2pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Dec. 8. Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Porgy and Bess @ Golden Gate Theatre National touring production of the Broadway revival of George Gershwin’s classic musical, which won a 2012 Tony Award; performed with a 23-piece orchestra. $40-$210. TuesSat. 8pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Wed 2pm. Thru Dec. 8. 1 Taylor St. at 6th. (888) 746-1799. www.porgyandbessthemusical.com www.shnsf.com

RAWdance @ Joe Goode Annex The vibrant talented local dance company premieres Mine, an evening-length work about the human urge to possess, consume and control. $21-$25. Dec 6-8 and 11-15, 8pm. 401 Alabama St. (800) 838-3006. www.rawdance.org

The Rocky Horror Show @ Boxcar Theatre Live performance of the original Richard O’Brien musical (about sexed-up alien transsexuals) that became a cult ﬁlm. $20-$55. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec. 21. 505 Natoma St. at 6th. www.sfrockyhorror.com

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus @ War Memorial Opera House Shine, the chorus’ annual formal holiday concert, features opera soprano Marina Harris, a Nutcracker medley, and holidaythemed fun. $25-$75. 8pm. 301 Van Ness Ave. Additional different concert line-up, Home for the Holidays, Dec. 24 at the Castro Theatre features vocalists Harris, and Matt Alber. $25-$35. 5pm, 7pm, 9pm. 429 Castro St. 392-4400. www.sfgmc.org

San Francisco Symphony @ Davies Symphony Hall The San Francisco Symphony performs a series of holiday special concerts. Dec. 6 & 7, 7:30pm, Singin’ in Rain, where the symphony performs the score at a screening of the classic Gene Kelly musical ﬁlm. Dec. 8, 11am & 3pm, a children’s holiday concert and party. Dec. 8, 8pm, Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez. Dec. 11, 7:30pm, jazz vocalist Dianne Reeve. Dec. 12, 7:30pm, LA’s Grammywinning cross-cultural band Ozomatli. www.sfsymphony.org

West Coast premiere of Emma Rice’s innovative acrobatic and music-ﬁlled adaptation of the classic mythical love story. $20-$72. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed 7pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Roda Theatre, 2015 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Urinetown: The Musical @ Lisser Theater, Oakland Student theatre department performs Mark Hollman and Greg Kotis’ darkly comic musical about a town where peeing for free is illegal. $13-$26. Fri & Sat 7:30pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Dec. 15. Mills College campus, 5000 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. (510) 595-5514. www.ymctberkeley.org

The Velveteen Rabbit @ YBCA ODC/Dance’s annual production of the children’s story ballet about a toy rabbit who longs to become real. $10-$75. Various times, mostly 11am. LGBT Family Day Nov. 30, 2pm. Thru Dec. 15. Lam Research Theatre, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St. www.odcdance.org www.ybca.org

Sat 7 Capacitor @ Aquarium of the Bay Okeanos, an aquatic dance show, is performed by the creative Bay Area dance-theatre team. $15-$30. 4:30 and 7pm. Saturdays thru 2013. Pier 39 at Embarcadero. 623-5300. www.capacitor. org www.aquariumofthebay.org

Concatenate @ ODC Dance Commons Showcase of new dances by seven young choreographers. $15. 8pm. Also Dec. 8. Studio B, 351 Shotwell St. 863-9834. www.odcdance.org

Crosscurrents @ MoAD Africa and Black Diasporas in Dialogue, 1960-1980, an exhibit of contemporary art. Thru April 13. $5-$10. Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission St. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org

David Hockney: A Bigger Exhibition @ de Young Museum New exhibit of 300 portraits, still lifes, and landscape paintings by the gay British painter. Free-$25. Thru Jan. 20. Also, The Art of Bulgari: La Dolce Vita & Beyond, an exhibit of 150 pieces of exquisite Italian jewelry made between 1950 and 1990, including gems from Elizabeth Taylor’s personal collection. Thru Feb 17. $10-$25. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. (til 8:45pm Fridays) Thru Dec. 30. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. 750-3600. www.famsf.org

Smuin Ballet @ Various Venues The local modern ballet company performs Smuin’s Christmas Ballet. $32-$68. Dec. 6, 8pm at the Sunset Center, San Carlos St. at 8th, Carmel. Dec. 11, 8pm at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. Dec. 18-28, 8pm at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. www.smuinballet.org

Snoopy! @ Eureka Theatre 42nd Street Moon theatre company’s production of family-friendly sequel to the Peanuts-themed musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. $25-$75. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri 8pm. Sat 6pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec. 15. 215 Jackson St. 255-8207. www.42ndStMoon.org

Sat 7

Jocquese at the Unity Mini-Ball

Out&About>>

December 5-11, 2013 • Bay area reporter • 33

Student Recitals @ SF Conservatory of Music Free recitals of classical and chamber music by students in various music departments. Mostly 8pm, some at 4pm. Also Dec 10, 12 & 15. 50 Oak St. 503-6215. www.sfcm.edu

Tue 10 Gravity @ Castro Theatre Sandra Bullock and George Clooney star in the visually stunning astronaut drama, in 3D. $8.50-$11. 7pm, 9:15. Also Dec. 11 at 2:30, 4:45, 7pm, and 9:15. 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.castrotheatre.com

Will Durst @ The Marsh Boomeraging: From LSD to OMG, the comic wit’s one-man show about aging Baby Boomers. Tuesdays thru Dec. 17. $15$50. 8pm. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.TheMarsh.org

World Tree of Hope @ City Hall

Fri 6 Beach Blanket Babylon

East Bay Alternative Book and Zine Fest @ Berkeley City College Browse alternative publications and enjoy readings with subversive writers and illustrators. 11am-6pm. 2060 Center St. eastbayalternativebookandzinefest.com

Edward Gant’s Amazing Feats of Loneliness @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley Anthony Neilson’s darkly comic play is set in an Edwardian traveling theatre troupe, whose backtage lives sometimes overshadow their characters. $20-$35. Previews thru Dec. 12. Opens Dec 13. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Jan. 11. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org

Holiday Crafts Fair @ Berkeley Farmers’ Market Choose from a variety of jewelry, ceramics, clothes and other locally-made handcrafted items; ﬁnd the perfect gift. 10am-4pm. Also Dec. 14 & 21. MLK Jr. Civic Center Park, Center St at MLK Jr. Way, Berkeley. (510) 548-3333. www.ecologycenter.org/fm

Jason Lazarus: Live Archive @ Contemp. Jewish Museum Exhibit of unusual work by the Chicago artist who explores collective public archives, personal memory, and the role of photography and collecting in contemporary art and identity. Special Frog and Toad Ball, a family-themed party, with food, drinks and dancing, $78 and up, 5:30pm. Also, two exhibits about Jewish life: To Build & Be Built: Kibbutz History (thru July 1) and Work in Progress: Considering Utopia (thru Jan 20). 2pm-5pm. Free (members)-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm (Thu 1pm-8pm) 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org

Nutcracker Sweets @ Fort Mason Center Mark Foehringer’s annual lighthearted shortened version dance concert of the holiday-themed Tschaikovsky ballet is accompanied by a nine-person chamber orchestra. $18-$28. 11am, 2pm, and some 4pm shows. Thru Dec. 24. Bldg. D, 3rd ﬂoor, Marina Blvd. at Buchanan. (800) 838-3006. www.kidscangroove.com

Our Vast Queer Past @ GLBT History Museum See the new exhibit, Vicki Marlane: I’m Your Lady, which displays video, images and ephemera documenting the pioneering local drag, cabaret and carnival perfomer, known for decades of performances. Thru Feb 28, 2014. Also, The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus: Celebrating 35 Years of Activism Through Song, includes archival materials from the historic chorus, leadcurated by Tom Burtch. Other permanent exhibits as well. Reg. hours Mon-Sat 11am7pm (closed Tue.) Sun 12pm-5pm. 4127 18th St. 621-1107. www.glbthistory.org

Unity Mini-Ball @ Dance Mission Theater Voguing ball and dance concert with a gay ﬂair features Joquese Whitﬁeld, Fatha Soul Nubian Benetton and dance house artists, plus an open dance competition. $10 to watch or compete. 8pm. 3316 24th St. 826-4441. www.dancemission.com

Sun 8 Kitka @ Chapel at Fort Ross State Park, Jenner The women’s traditional folk ensemble known for hauntingly beautiful harmonies performs Wintersongs: A World Unknown at a variety of evocative settings. Dec. 8, $15-$55, 3pm (12:30pm VIP tour and Russian tea beneﬁts Kitka and the Fort Ross Conservancy). 19005 Coast Highway 1, Jenner. (510) 444-0323. www.kitka.org

Safeway Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square Rent a pair of skates and enjoy the downtown tradition. $5-$11 10am11:30pm daily thru Jan. 20. www.unionsquareicerink.com

Mon 9 I Am Divine @ Castro Theatre Return screening of the fascinating new documentary about Glen Milstead, aka Divine, John Waters’ cinematic muse. $8.50-$11. 7pm & 9pm. 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.castrotheatre.com

Healthcare Reform Info Fair @ SF AIDS Foundation Informational session about HIV-related aspects of Obamacare. 2pm-4pm. 1035 Market St. www.sfaf.org

Help is on the Way for the Holidays @ Marines’ Memorial Theater The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation’s 12th annual holiday beneﬁt concert includes performances by Bruce Vilanch, Jai Rodriguez, Tim Hockenberry, Carly Ozard, Debby Boone, Tom Lowe, Sharon McNight, Shawn Ryan, Jason Brock, cast members from New Conservatory Theatre’s Avenue Q, the Broadway touring cast of The Book of Mormon and others. Proceeds beneﬁt Positive Resource Center and Maitri. Post-concert reception at Hotel Adagio (550) Geary St.) $75 and up. 7:30pm. 609 Sutter St. www.reaf.org

Lighting celebration for the Rainbow World fund’s annual tree of crane origami wishes, with the SF Boys Chorus, Donna Sachet, Veronica Klaus and Tammy Hall, and elected ofﬁcials; party wth drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Free. 5:30-8pm. Tree on display thru Jan. 2. Rotunda, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. www.rainbowfund.org

Wed 11 Cirque Dreams Holidaze @ Curran Theatre Holiday circus kid-friendly theatrical spectacle. $45-$160. Wed-Sat 7pm. Fri & Sun 1pm. Also Sun 6:30pm. Thru Dec. 15. 445 Geary St. (888) 746-1799. www.shnsf.com

2013 Holiday Concert Thursday, December 12 Friday, December 13 Sunday, December 15 Tuesday, December 17

8 pm 8 pm 3 pm 8 pm

St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church 3281 16th Street, San Francisco

Hymns to Hermes: The Poetics of James Broughton @ SF Public Library

General $25 / VIP $35 Tickets: www.ggmc.org or at the door. Student discount available at the door.

Local activist and archivist Joey Cain’s exhibit of the gay poet and ﬁlmmaker includes rare personal items from his estate. Exhibit thru Jan. 16. James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center, Main Library, third ﬂoor, 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org

Radar Reading @ SF Public Library Michelle Tea welcomes Cheeming Boey, Rotimi Agbabiaka, Dave C and Aya de Leon to the eclectic reading series. 6pm. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org

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Thu 12 The Mystical Traveler Marathon @ Castro Theatre Seminars (9am-2pm), workshops and booksigning (2:30-5:30), and the SF ﬁlm premiere (7:30) featuring bestselling spirituality author Dr. John-Roger. Free$25. 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.castrotheatre.com

REAL STEAKS. REAL MARTINIS. REAL SAN FRANCISCO.

Nicole Kidman is Fucking Gorgeous @ CounterPulse Mica Sigourney, John Foster Cartwright, Maryam Rostami’s new performance work about the actress’ fame, glamour and absence. $15-$20. Thu-Sun 8pm. Thru Dec. 15. 1310 Mission St. 626-2060. www.counterpulse.org

To submit event listings, email jim@ebar.com. Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication. For bar and nightlife events, go to www.bartabsf.com, and our new merged section, www.ebar.com/bartab

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Storefront Church @ SF Playhouse Local production of Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning playwright John Patrick Shanley’s uplifting holiday-themed drama. $20-$100. Tue-Thu 7pm, Fri & Sat 8pm. Sat 3pm and Sun 2pm. Thru Jan. 11. 450 Post St. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org

Golden Gate Men’s Chorus, Joseph Piazza, Music Director, presents

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<< Theatre

34 • Bay area reporter • December 5-11, 2013

Treasonous love by Richard Dodds

t may take a while to tune into the wavelength that Kneehigh Theatre’s Tristan & Yseult is traversing. Heck, it took me nearly 30 minutes to decide if there even was a wavelength. But long before the end of the two-hour play having its West Coast premiere at Berkeley Rep, this retelling of the medieval legend has established a fascinating clear-channel frequency that turns the story inside out before putting it back together with a mounting emotional wallop. Classical music-lovers know the story through Richard Wagner’s opera, though its libretto is but one version of a tangled plot that has gone in numerous directions since the tragic love story gained popularity in the 12th century, including what became the Broadway musical Camelot. But however you may know the main elements, you haven’t seen anything like how Tristan & Yseult is told according to Kneehigh. UK-based Kneehigh has made two lauded visits to the Bay Area,

with Brief Encounter and The Wild Bride, both wonderfully imaginative and utterly different. Tristan & Yseult adds to and amplifies on that legacy with an enormous array of theatrical styles and techniques that could at first seem arbitrarily evoked before becoming essential ingredients ingeniously employed by director/ adapter Emma Rice and writers Carl Grouse and Anna Maria Murphy. As the audience enters the theater, a singer and a four-piece combo are already performing a series of torch songs from an upstage platform. A sign tells us the venue is the Club of the Unloved, and the 1950s-styled singer (Carly Bawden), who goes on to become narrator and commentator, tells us that the members of this club long for the day that their membership expires. The passion that will engulf young lovers Tristan and Yseult – their story is told in flashback, a tragic ending already proclaimed – is but the stuff of dreams for the members of the Club of the Unloved, who roam forlornly about the stage. From the happy ’50s vibe of the

Ursine universe by Jim Piechota

Bear City: The Novel by Lawrence Ferber; Bear Bones Books (Lethe Press), $15 ournalist and filmmaker Lawrence Ferber’s novelization of the 2010 hit gay comedy Bear City pretty much follows along with the simplistic yet engrossing and entertaining plot of the award-winning feature-length movie of the same name. The book, as the movie before it, will prove great fun for fans and those who just can’t get enough

of all of the hirsute hijinks. Tyler Hall is a six-foot-tall, 20-something aspiring actor who has moved to Manhattan to find film work and ends up admitting to a hardcore affinity for older, beefy, hairy men, even though his best friend and roommate Simon Fujisawa can’t fathom this idea. Since they cohabitate together in a Williamsburg, Brooklyn sublet, it’s not long before Simon warms to the notion of initiating Tyler into the wild and woolly ins and outs of the New York City bear culture.

changes places. Plausibility is early moments, we are plunged already strained, but it would into serious portents of war as seem to reach a breaking point the Cornish king (Mike Shepsince Craig Johnson has played herd) prepares for battle against the maid to great laughs in a the invading Irish. But then it’s drag persona worthy of a Benny a kind of pow-zap-bam battle as Hill sketch. But the laughs disif from TV’s Batman that wins appear as the maid delivers a the day for Cornwall, earning post-coital lament of the physithe king the Irish leader’s siscal love she will know this one ter as bounty. It’s up to trusty and only time. Never mind that lieutenant Tristan (Andrew Duit’s delivered by a hefty man in a rand) to deliver Yseult (Patrycja negligee. Kujawska) to the king, which he On its way to the predestined dutifully does, but not before conclusion, the production intheir own treasonous love has Steve Tanner cludes aerial maneuvers, anarchic blossomed. Members of the Club of the Unloved dancing, homages to Mr. Bean, But the chanteuse-narrator, prepare for a royal wedding in Kneehigh’s musical underscoring ranging known as Whitegloves for her Tristan & Yseult at Berkeley Rep. from Nick Cave to Yma Sumac fashionable retro wardrobe, sighs, to Bob Marley, and an audience“Oh, Tristan, you should have participation sequence that briefseen this one coming.” Throughthey actually allow emotions to flow ly turns the auditorium into a giddy out the production, the kind of obvimore freely by neutralizing these barchildren’s party. We laugh, we cry, but ous coincidences, absurdly mistaken riers. most of all, we awe.t identities, and discomfiting contrivThis is never truer than after ances that audiences have learned Yseult’s wedding to the king, whom largely to tolerate from centuries-old Tristan & Yseult will run at Berkeshe knows is expecting a virgin. She sagas are spotlighted and taunted. ley Rep through Jan. 6. Tickets are convinces her maid to take her place $29-$99. Call (510) 647-2918 or go to But rather than further undermining in the bridal bed, allowing deflowerberkeleyrep.org. connections to modern sensibilities, ing blood to flow, and then quickly

A night out at Rockbar not only opens the book up to Tyler’s exploration of this niche scene, but gives the author the opportunity to introduce a group of alternate characters who spin their own melodrama around Tyler’s own. Among them are Carlos and Michael, Fred and his “husbear” Brent,

and a host of bit players adding to Tyler’s central new-kid-on-the-block scenario. Everyone in the book delivers reasonably realistic dialogue and personifies both the joys and frustrations of such a close-knit culture. When Brent mutters, “There’s a term for everything in this scene,” he’s not kidding. Readers are introduced to the terminology of Panda Bears (Asian bears), older,

often white-haired Polar Bears, Alpha Daddy Bears, and Otters (“lean, mean, and hairy”), all drinking cocktails called “Bear Claws” (“an acquired taste that fell somewhere between Jagermeister and Campari, with a mescal tang.”) Tyler falls for one particular “Alpha Daddy Bear” named Roger, a sexy, bulgy, cologne-wearing guy, but becomes frustrated by the nonchalance of his affections. The action culminates with the arrival of BearCity Weekend, where pillow talk See page 35 >>

Music>>

December 5-11, 2013 • Bay area reporter • 35

Tinsel tunes for holiday listening by Gregg Shapiro

he reissue of the Cotillion Records compilation Funky Christmas (Real Gone Music) gets off to a funky start with “May Christmas Bring You Happiness” by a quintet called Luther. It’s led by the late Luther Vandross shortly before his disco breakthroughs with Bionic Boogie and Change. Luther’s tracks, including the Vandross original “At Christmas Time,” are the main reasons to unwrap this disc. The Classic Christmas Album (Columbia/Buddha/Legacy), comprised of songs culled from Gladys Knight & The Pips’ The Christmas Album (1975) and That Special Time of Year (1982), makes the season bright. Knight & Co.’s “Do You Hear What I Hear?,” Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas,” and “It’s the Happiest Time of the Year” are standout. A pair of cuts featuring Johnny Mathis, “When a Child Is Born” and “The Lord’s Prayer,” wraps everything up with a pretty bow. Legendary and out vocalist Johnny Mathis has been releasing Christmas albums since 1958. More than half of the seasonal selections in his latest, Sending You a Little Christmas (Columbia), are duets with a stellar array of guests, including Billy Joel (“The Christmas Song”), Natalie Cole (“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”), and Gloria Estefan (“Mary’s Boy Child”). A Mary Christmas (Verve/Interscope/Matriarch), by Mary J. Blige, earns props for Blige’s choice of duet partners, including bi Brit Jessie J (“Do You Hear What I Hear?”), gospel goddesses The Clark Sisters (“The First Noel”) and Marc Anthony (“Noche de Paz/Silent Night”). Blige’s “The Little Drummer Boy” is spectacular, and her reading of “My Favorite Things” shows she ought to consider doing an album of standards. What self-respecting homosexual doesn’t have both of Barbra Streisand’s Christmas albums, 1967’s A Christmas Album and 2001’s Christmas Memories, in their holiday music collection? So as not to make Streisand’s The Classic Christmas Album (Legacy/Columbia) completely superfluous, think of it as a good way to initiate the next gay generation in the joys of Barbra at the time of the winter solstice. The disc’s 16 selections are split almost evenly between the two source albums. Released in time for Hanukkah, the double-disc set It’s a Scream How Levine Does the Rhumba (The Idelsohn Society), subtitled The Latin-Jewish Musical Story: 1940s1980s, tells the tale of “Jews falling in love with Latin music.” From resorts to Bar Mitzvah parties and weddings, from mambo to limbo to cha-cha, Jews and Latin music go way back (can you say Spanish inquisition?). The 41 tracks compiled here feature Latino and Jewish musicians such as Xavier Cugat, Ruth Wallis, Perez Prado, Carole King, Tito Puente, the Barry Sisters, Celia Cruz, Mickey Katz, Willie Colon, Eydie Gorme, Eddie Palmieri, and of course, Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass. The spicy collection is suitable for playing

Bear City

From page 34

competes with the flirty backroom shenanigans of “over three hundred shirtless, sweaty men of all sizes, many of them hairy, bearded, and fitting some bear community subset.” The book is supplemented with “behind the scenes” photo stills from the movie, and is ultimately a smooth, breezy read, slim enough to satisfy even the shortest attention span. The action is consistently frothy, with a good amount of hot

at any winter holiday gathering. For many people, Andy Williams’ name is synonymous with Christmas music. Williams’ three Christmas recordings The Andy Williams Christmas Album (1963), Merry Christmas (1965) and Christmas Present (1974), along with a few singles and unreleased tracks, have been compiled on the two-disc set The Complete Christmas Recordings (Real Gone Music). Questionable politics aside, the late Williams had one of the most distinctive singing voices in mid-20th century popular music. That’s the reason these renditions of seasonal favorites are classics. If you have a hankering for some country this Christmas, The Classic Christmas Album (Epic/Legacy) by George Jones & Tammy Wynette should fill the bill. Bookended by a pair of duets (“Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus,” “The Greatest Christmas Gift”), this set mainly consists of Jones and Wynette’s solo recordings from the 1960s and early 70s. Almost worth owning for the cover alone, Christmas with Patti Page (Real Gone Music), “the singing rage,” is as much of interest for novelty recording “The Mama Doll Song” as it is for Page’s renditions of traditional holiday music. Six bonus tracks, including three songs from her short-lived TV program The Patti Page Show, fill up this musical holiday stocking. Patti Page wouldn’t be out of place on the 12-song compilation soundtrack Mad Men Christmas: Music from and Inspired by the Hit TV Series on AMC (Lionsgate/Concord). Mostly comprised of vintage holiday recordings such as “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by Darlene Love, “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by Teresa Brewer, and “White Christmas” by Rosemary Clooney, the disc also features newer recordings, including “Christmas Waltz” by Nellie McKay, “Zou Bisou Bisou” by cast member Jessica Paré, and RJD2’s Mad Men theme “A Beautiful Mine.” Kelly Clarkson’s Wrapped in Red (RCA) ranks among the best of this year’s new seasonal-music offerings. It’s one of those rare occasions when the original tunes, including the title cut and the “Santa Baby” update “4 Carats,” are worthy of standing alongside the more familiar numbers. Clarkson is also radiant on “Silent Night” (joined by Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood) and the jazzy readings of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and “White Christmas.” Is there anything better than holiday music sung phonetically? You can answer that for yourself when you hear Buon Natale – The Christmas Album (Interscope) by Italy’s trio of teen tenors Il Volo. Combining traditional Christmas fare (“Ave Maria,” “O Holy Night”) with more contemporary titles (“Rocking Around the Christmas Tree”), Il Volo continues to aim for crossover success. Contemporary country diva Mindy Smith must love Christmas. The five-song EP Snowed In (Giant Leap/TVX) is her second holidaythemed release this century. Smith’s

and heady sex (barring a cheesy opening dream sequence between Tyler and a thickset, imaginary Santa Claus: “‘Fuck my ho-ho-hole!’ Father Christmas bellowed joyfully, muffled by natural goosedown.”) Since men are visual creatures by nature, see the film, then read the print treatment, in that order. While bodies and faces translate more on screen than on the page, there are those hardcore Bear City fans for whom this book will make a truly satisfying companion to the DVD.t

lighthearted originals (“Tomorrow Is Christmas Day”) balance out the seriousness of the more traditional selections. File this under: Oh no, she didn’t! Susan Boyle opens Home for Christmas (SYCO/Columbia), her second Christmas CD in three years, with “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” a duet with none other than Elvis Presley (gulp). Not the best or most festive idea. Johnny Mathis reprises his “When a Child Is Born” duet duties when Boyle teams up with him on the song. It’s one of the more pleasing moments on the album. Also a joy is Boyle’s version of “The Christmas Waltz” (written by two Yids, no less!). “YouTube sensations” (now that’s a gift you can’t return!) The Piano Guys take the holidays seriously on A Family Christmas (Portrait). It’s not clear what it is about the song selection – including traditional and popular Christmas favorites, as well as a handful of originals by piano guy Jon Schmidt – that qualifies it as “family,” but even chosen families will find

something to like here. Not their first time at the Christmas music rodeo, the four Celtic women of Celtic Woman come to your home for Christmas with their CD/DVD set Home for Christmas (Manhattan). The 12-song studio CD features their renditions of beloved Christmas selections. The DVD, recorded live in Dublin, features four more songs from an “intimate acoustic” performance. Not quite The Nutcracker, the Broadway musical Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical (Masterworks Broadway)

has the potential to become an annual holiday theater event. With recognizable songs written by Dr. Seuss and Albert Hague (“You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”) and new tunes by Timothy Mason and Mel Marvin, the Grinch lives on.t

<< Music

36 • Bay area reporter • December 5-11, 2013

Paciﬁst takes on war horrors by Philip Campbell

wo performances of Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem given just before and after Thanksgiving Day have officially started the San Francisco Symphony’s season-long celebration of the composer’s 100th birthday. On a return visit to the podium at Davies Symphony Hall, reliable and masterful guest conductor Semyon Bychkov led a thoughtful concert that may have been a little short on raw emotion, but proved hauntingly moving just the same. Written in 1961 and first performed a year later for the consecration of the rebuilt Coventry Cathedral (destroyed by German bombing during WWII), the War Requiem interweaves traditional Latin texts with poems by Wilfred Owen, noted for the realism and lack of military jingoism in his own deeply expressive war poetry. Owen was a soldier himself who died in the First World War. The cumulative power of the work can leave only the most jaded listener

unmoved, and even if there were a few fidgety audience members surreptitiously checking their watches during the 85-minute performance, the vast majority of the packed house sat in contemplative silence a good 15 seconds before breaking into a long and solid standing ovation at the end. Britten was at the height of his powers when he attempted the complex creation of the Requiem. His lifelong pacifism probably gave him an added impetus to draw on all his resources to make an impassioned musical statement at a time when the Vietnam War was escalating and the Berlin Wall was going up (not to mention the Bay of Pigs crisis). The War Requiem is dedicated to four friends Britten lost in the Second World War, and so it is also a heartfelt memorial and lament for the deaths of the fallen. With a chamber orchestra, full orchestra, full chorus (including children’s voices) and three vocal soloists at his disposal, the composer constructed a typically effective mu-

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Christian Steiner

Soprano Christine Brewer: richness of tone.

sical work that also manages to pack a tremendous albeit subtle emotional punch. All of the trademark lifelong ingenuity with instrumentation is there to support his remarkable talent for vocal writing. Britten was simply one of the foremost operatic and choral composers of the 20th century, and he also possessed a wondrous gift for melody. From the very beginning, marked by the anxiously uneasy writing for strings, listeners unmistakably know they have entered Britten territory. The long, slow, almost timeless quality of the score grows inexorably with effective momentary dramatic outbursts and furious passages of unleashed orchestral power. The closing pages are almost unbearably tender, and the soft pleas for peace and eternal rest that close

the work cannot really provide the yearned-for emotional closure. We know we have not turned from the horror of war and human violence one more time, but have at least thought about it and lamented it without denial. That may be the true point of a requiem, after all. The soloists were headed by renowned soprano Christine Brewer, seated at the back of the stage behind the full orchestra. Her powerful voice was shrill at times, but the richness of her tone grew warmer as the performance continued, and her familiarity with the work complemented conductor Bychkov’s clear intention to keep histrionics at bay. Baritone Roderick Williams has a clear, bright voice that may be just this side of the tenor range, but he can shade his singing to make it darker, and his diction is spectacular. We never looked once at the text printed in the program when he was singing solo. His dramatic involvement was also touching. In another standout performance, tenor James Gilchrist also essayed his difficult assignment with obvious understanding and vocal stamina. We believed his words as he so effectively conveyed them. I think he would be ideal for some of Britten’s other works for tenor. Positioned in the upper reaches of DSH in a hallway by the side of the terrace seating, the Pacific Boychoir (Kevin Fox, director) sang alternately with ghostly mystery and angelic sweetness. It was a good idea to position them in such a theatrically effective way. Of course, the SFS Chorus under

Benjamin Ealovega

Baritone Roderick Williams shades his singing to make it darker.

Ragnar Bohlin usually steals the show, and the discipline and sheer beauty of the large crew didn’t disappoint. Bohlin and Bychkov integrated choral passages with restraint, however, so the final effect of their performance was all the more heartbreakingly real. Semyon Bychkov has become expert with the War Requiem, and his measured sense of pacing and unerring view of line and direction brought a multifaceted masterpiece back to gutwrenching life. There is more big-time Britten to come (a concert-staged Peter Grimes, among other wonders), and Bychkov has already set the bar very high. Now we have the expectation of Michael Tilson Thomas’ take on the great English composer to look forward to.t

Begin the Levine by Tim Pfaﬀ

ne of the biggest – in all senses of the word – musical events this year was the gay Metropolitan Opera Music Director James Levine’s hydraulic return to the podium to lead the Met Orchestra (as DG’s new live recording of the event calls it) last May 19, his first public baton-waving following a two-year hiatus due to a series of physical disabilities. If any musician in the 21st century has received a true hero’s welcome, it was Levine on this momentous occasion. The recording itself – outscale, brash, glaringly over-bright – captures something of the essence of the event. Ascending the specially made podium in the wheelchair equivalent of President Obama’s Beast, Levine led a well-judged program crafted to play to his strengths. Levine’s detractors – less numerous but overall more verbal than his idolaters – have been quick to point out that this bargain-priced two-CD set omits a potent, idiomatic performance of Elliott Carter’s Variations for Orchestra, on the program but perhaps too nettlesome for its intended home audience. But you won’t get any complaints from me for Levine’s having slated three of my favorite pieces of music: the Prelude to Act I of Lohengrin; Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 in G, with Evgeny Kissin; and Schubert’s Symphony No. 9 in C. It wasn’t an event calculated to unveil new interpretive perspectives on the pieces. They might not have been able to penetrate the hype in any case. Even so, it is, after the fact and minus the electricity of the at-

Courtesy DG

Metropolitan Opera Music Director James Levine returned to the podium, at Carnegie Hall.

mosphere in the hall, dispiriting to experience the extent to which polish and overstatement were the rule of the day. Indeed, the old – or most recent, prior to the self-imposed exile from the pit – Jimmy was back. Big-time. The uproar greeting Levine’s ascent of the podium turned out to be neither the loudest nor the crudest mass sound heard. Levine – who, after all, did doublehandedly turn the Met’s overworked pit-band into one of the finest orchestras of any kind on the planet, one other conductors clamored to lead, and has at various stages of his career been a mighty interpreter of Verdi, Puccini, Wagner and, at his own insistence, Berg – has increasingly foregone subtlety in his music-making. But even those huff-and-puff, mannered, and bewilderingly singer-negligent performances of installments of Wagner’s Ring just prior to his de-

parture – also carefully preserved on DG DVDs – could not have prepared the informed listener for the slam-dance the wheelchair-bound Levine did with this major music. Start with the transcendental middle movement of the Beethoven, one of the most unprecedented and dramatic passages in all of piano literature. As if answering the first movement’s singular solo-piano entrance, the Andante begins the movement’s orchestra-piano dialogue with mighty chords from the orchestra before the pianist’s answering entrance, again solo. Levine opened the bidding with a clamor that would not be out of place in Richard Strauss. Oddly enough, each of the orchestra’s outbursts brought, in response, Kissin’s most sensitive playing of the concert. Elsewhere, the pianist, who opened the piece with masterfully voiced chords that were virtually devoid of meaning, gave a glittering, facile account of the solo part that didn’t invest the music with anything more personal than some lazy rubaSee page 39 >>

Film>>

December 5-11, 2013 • Bay area reporter • 37

Berkeley repertoire by David Lamble

n the Spring of 1966, Frederick Wiseman was a 36-year-old member of the Massachusetts state bar who had done nothing to attract attention to himself. Wiseman then spent two months filming at the Bridgewater State Prison for the Criminally Insane. The resulting film, Titicut Follies, would eventually be seen as a bold, brilliant, revolutionary new type of film, the observational documentary. His method was deceptively simple: film anything that interested him, tens of hours of raw 16mm footage, then spend far more time editing the material into a fly-on-the-wall film where an institution – a police department in Kansas City, a high school in Philadelphia, a welfare office in Lower Manhattan – would reveal its inner workings. Titicut Follies was so revelatory of how Massachusetts treated some of its most dangerous and vulnerable citizens that the state Supreme Court actually banned its public exhibition, then went to the extraordinary step of ordering that the film’s negative be destroyed. It would take over a generation of legal wrangling for the public to glimpse what got the guardians of the Commonwealth’s image so upset. If Wiseman were portrayed in a Hollywood film like Kinsey, central casting would probably pick the Swedish actor Max von Sydow. Von Sydow, who dueled with Death in Bergman’s The Seventh Seal, was an introspective assassin opposite Robert Redford in Three Days of the Condor, and did a hilarious, spoton comic primal scream for Woody Allen in Hannah and Her Sisters – this is a man capable of delivering a profoundly disturbing message while maintaining a benign, almost

placid countenance. Wiseman’s latest masterpiece At Berkeley is a 244-minute, minutely observed, visually arresting essay on the Bay Area’s most important public institution, in a time of crisis, 2010, when UC Berkeley was threatened with state budget cuts and possibly a revival of radical student protests reminiscent of the 60s Free Speech Movement. I couldn’t help thinking what could have resulted had this pesky genius trained his cameras on the LGBT community during the initial catastrophe of AIDS, or during the late-70s spasm of erotic bliss instead of, say, William Friedkin. Yes, we do have the inspirational Word Is Out, but what might Wiseman have seen during our growing pains? Slices of life in a quality education: director Frederick Wiseman’s At Berkeley. Taking in an observational epic slightly longer cries out “Berkeley!” is a seminar tween Cal overseers trying to estabthan Lawrence of Arabia, on what might be called identity lish a new, sustainable fiscal model, without its lovely boys in the sand politics in today’s higher ed. An arand slices of the quality education or intermission, is a chore, even ticulate woman professor lays out available. We get a breathtaking when the film is as good as this the agenda, followed by a series of glimpse of how UC Berkeley reone. At Berkeley opens Friday at the student interventions highlighted search is helping victims of spinalRoxie Theater, not an exceptionally by a provocative volley directed at cord injuries; an elderly female progood snoozing cinema, so chances her fellow seminarians by a passionfessor able to gloat after 50 years of are you will stay awake. Wiseman ate, light-skinned African American pioneering molecular studies on the jumps right into deep waters. We woman. Her argument is essentially body’s cancer triggers; penetrating find ourselves alternating between that white and Asian students have seminars on how our bodies reckon scenes at an administrative/faconly recently discovered how hard it time; and Thoreau’s Walden Pond ulty retreat exploring how Cal will is to have your privileged education view of human selfishness and the weather the latest cutbacks, and underwritten in Tea Party-leaning insidious nature of progress. a kind of See’s Candy sampler of America. This lively exchange is the After two hours of proving how lower-division classes and graduate segment of the film most likely to be worthy Cal is of state support – seminars. Wiseman avoids identifyparodied, as director Wes Anderson down to 16% of its total budget ing anyone of his cast of hundreds, did to an earlier Wiseman doc in his after the recent financial meltdown but public affairs-savvy viewers will breakout high-school rebel comedy – Wiseman turns up the heat and recognize such all-stars as former Rushmore. gives us a ping-pong view of the OcClinton Secretary of Labor Robert Gathering steam, At Berkeley tober 2010 student protests against Reich. becomes a verbal tennis match besizeable tuition and fee hikes, and The first scene that hits home and

the strategies of Cal administrators to isolate the student radicals and make sure the campus’ political center holds. Significantly, the leaders of this middle-ofthe-road “law-and-order approach” arose from the small but vocal ranks of Cal’s African American administrators/faculty members. It is to Wiseman’s credit that all views feel fully represented in a film that becomes, after four hours, a rather impassioned cry to save the core of our culture. In 1968, as my country was spinning madly out of control, my movie safespace was The Graduate, Mike Nichols’ witty send-up of what a young man should do with a good education. My first impression of UC Berkeley came from Dustin Hoffman’s encounter with a white landlord, grouchy to the point of paranoia, who saw only revolution and worse in the boys renting his shabby offcampus rooms. “I like to know what my boys are up to.” “I’m not up to much. I’ve just always wanted to see Berkeley.” “You’re not one of those agitators, one of those outside agitators?” “Oh, no.” “I hate that! I won’t stand for it!” Nearly a half-century after his conscience prompted his unique brand of filmmaking, Frederick Wiseman remains one of our most effective agitators, in the best possible sense. For more, consult 5 Films by Frederick Wiseman, transcribed and edited by Barry Keith Grant (University of California Press, 1997).t

A New LGBT Science Fiction Epic

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38 • Bay Area Reporter • December 5-11, 2013

Vital story of vital organs by Victoria A. Brownworth

e got home from Thanksgiving dinner last week just in time to watch ABC’s Nightline and a story of thankfulness that was heartbreaking as well as inspiring. Born with cystic fibrosis, Lyndsey McLaughlin had been dying slowly for years. At 26, she was literally taking her last breaths, in a wheelchair, oxygen tanks strapped to her back, her face a dull gray color. She was in desperate need of a lung transplant. We witnessed her perilous decline. As she got the exciting news that lungs were available after a two-year wait, she also shared the awful knowledge that the miraculous call that would give her a second chance at life also meant someone else’s death. Adrian Rodriguez, 18, a senior at Marta Valle High School in New York City, was remarkable by everyone’s accounting. Adorable and flamboyant, he was a budding chef, a star at his school, beloved by family, friends, teachers. He had developed his own cooking show, which was shown at the school. He had huge plans. He was waiting to hear if he had a scholarship to the cooking school of his dreams the day he was running for the subway and slipped on the subway platform, his head clipped by the train as he fell. He was taken from Union Square Station in New York to Bellevue Hospital, where he was put on life support. His mother Diana couldn’t bear to take him off life support. Hours after the accident, he was declared brain dead. Yet his organs were all still vital, the organs of a young, healthy 18-year-old. “He loved to share, he loved to give back,” Diana told Nightline’s Cynthia McFadden. It would be months before the organ donor registry would connect Lyndsey and Diana, and Lyndsey would finally get to meet the mother of the young man who had saved her life. This was a most meaningful Thanksgiving Day story, but also

bittersweet. Adrian was such a lovely young man. His mother received the notification in the mail that he had won that coveted scholarship two weeks after his death. Yet now Lyndsey feels she is living her life for him as well. Watch the story at ABCnews.com. Be prepared to weep, then sign up to be a donor at www.organdonor. gov. The Nightline tale wasn’t the only story of true giving we saw over the holiday. We’ve always been a fan of fitness guru Bob Harper. He’s changed and saved so many lives. But on the Nov. 26 episode of NBC’s The Biggest Loser, the hot and hunky Harper gave conFred Lee/Courtesy ABC News testant Bobby Saleem a wonderful gift. Harper came out publicly to Diana Rodriguez and Lyndsey McLaughlin on ABC’s Nightline. support Saleem, who was struggling to tell his father he was gay. hoisted on his own petard last week like it was appropriate and necesDuring the episode, Harper said, on ABC’s Scandal. His nefarious sary. Love y’all!” Jillian Michaels, “I haven’t talked about my sexuality plotting may have cost him his marthe other hot, ripped trainer on on this show ever, and now, meetriage. We have long wondered what Biggest Loser, has been out herself ing Bobby, I really do believe this Cyrus loved more: his job as Fitz’s for some time. She and her wife, is the right time. I want to show Chief of Staff or his husband James Heidi Rhoades, have two children Bobby that he doesn’t have to live in (Dan Bucatinsky, who did win an together. shame.” Harper took Saleem aside Emmy last year). We now know that Other gay TV news that set the and told him that he, too, was gay. his love for one has royally screwed holidays into high gear included the Tissues all around, please. the other. Cyrus wanted to catch the fabulous finale of ABC’s Dancing Harper explained his experiVP’s husband in a compromising with the Stars. We were rooting for ence to Saleem, noting that he had position, since Sally’s (Kate Burton: Glee star Amber Riley (Mercedes) had similar fears. “I totally underwhere’s her Emmy?) husband Danand Jack Osbourne throughout this stand what you’re talking about,” iel (Jack Coleman, finally getting to season, so we were excited that both Harper said. “I totally get it. I’m gay. show his sexy side) is the typical Tea stars were in the final three couples. I knew a very long time ago that I Partier, all family-values speechifyOsbourne, 28, came out last year as was gay, and the family that I grew ing while he screws men on the side. having multiple sclerosis, and has had up around was very much the same Now the man he has screwed is serious flare-ups of the disease. Since in that way. You know, there was so James, who had no intention of we also have MS, Osbourne was one much repression there.” straying, but, when he realized he’d of our favorites this season. But from Harper ended his big reveal upbeen set up by Cyrus to catch Daniel the outset, Riley felt like one of the beat, telling Saleem, “But being gay out, decided to get back at Cyrus by stars to beat. Despite her weight, she doesn’t mean being weak. Being gay having sex with Daniel. Watching was flawless, her energy amazing, her doesn’t mean that you are less than the lightbulb go off in James’ head heart apparent in every dance, and anybody else. It’s just who you are.” when Daniel shoves him up against she was definitely the most improved Saleem told Harper he would talk to the wall and tries to kiss him was dancer by show’s end. his father. awful. More awful, however, was Riley was partnered with Derek Harper’s coming out got massive seeing Cyrus pacing the bedroom Hough, who now, with five mirrorresponse on Twitter, with thousands as he waited for James to come ball trophies, has more wins than tweeting support for Harper, who home. After all, he had told Mellie any of DWTS’ prodigious stable responded, “Thank you to every(Bellamy Young) smugly, “My husof dancer/choreographers. Riley one that supported my decision to band isn’t your husband” when she was thrilled by her win. She told talk about being gay w/Bobby. I feel wondered if James might actually reporters that she had worked “resleep with Daniel if Daniel propoally hard,” and with the scores of the sitioned him. So we watch Cyrus final three couples being so close, pacing, picking up their daughter’s she knew it was the voting audience toys. We see him jump into bed and who pushed her and Hough over pretend he’s been there all along the top. “It was America’s vote and when he hears James come in. Then they voted for me, and I really apJames goes not to Cyrus, but to take preciate that. It feels great!” a shower, like all straying husbands Riley, who sang the national must. The two say “I love you,” but anthem for the 2012 Democratic we know how fraught that is. We National Convention, SAG Award hear the shower as the photos are winner for her work on Glee, nomisent to Cyrus’ phone, per his innated for an NAACP Image Award structions. But instead of the photos and a Teen Choice award, is another being of James saying no, they are of contestant from American Idol who James and Daniel naked. never made the cut, but who is now a For once Cyrus doesn’t know star. She is the first African-American what to do. He set his husband up woman to win DWTS in its 17 sealike a common whore to protect sons. Watch for her in the Glee seathe president against Sally running son finale. Expect to see Rachel and against Fitz, and now not only can Santana dressed as elves (be still our he not use the photos against Sally, hearts!) among other adorableness. he may have screwed things for Loose lips Fitz as well. This was his ace to take If you haven’t seen the spoof by down Sally: reveal her husband as a James Franco and Seth Rogen of gay philanderer. But he can’t do that the Kimye sex/music video Bound when his own husband succumbed 2, Bound 3, check it out. The sexuto Daniel’s advances. We actually ally explicit original is parodied feel sorry for Cyrus. And surprised wonderfully and sexily, with full-on by James. We’d hate to see the best kissing by the two actors. Clips have gay male couple on the tube sunbeen making the rounds of the tabdered. But that’s what it looks like as loid TV circuit, and hit ABC’s World we barrel toward the season finale. News Now last week. Franco is also Shonda Rhimes giveth and Shonthe spokesmodel for Gucci, and that da Rhimes taketh away. She split side of him is definitely profiled up Callie and Arizona on Grey’s in this video. It’s quite the lip-lock Anatomy much as she seems to be and makes one wish Franco really doing with Cyrus and James on were gay, not just one of the biggest Scandal, but she’s put them back LGBT allies around. He was hontogether. Sort of. The specter of the ored by amfAR and the Miami Gay loquacious Lena now lies before the Film Festival earlier this year. couple. It was one thing for Callie to Speaking of gay lip-locks, Cyrus know that Arizona had slept with (where is Jeff Perry’s Emmy?) was someone else while they were split

<< TV

up. But then she wanted details (never ask for details, every soap maven knows this). She wanted to know how many times Arizona and Miss X had slept together. “Once, twice, more than 10?” More than 10. Uh-oh. Then the three of them (Callie, Arizona and Lena) are in the OR together. Talk about bad timing. Lena is the least able to obfuscate of anyone we have ever seen. We’re not sure what will happen next, but we hope the revelation of who Arizona slept with doesn’t keep her and Callie from getting back together, since they are the perfectly imperfect couple and Arizona still adores Callie, even though Callie is a punishing femme dom. Speaking of femme doms, we loved the exchange between Rocsi Diaz on ET and Miley Cyrus after the American Music Awards. We won’t pretend we don’t have a soft spot for bad girls like Miley, we do. The AMAs were held on her birthday, so she was celebrating immediately after with good friend Kelly Osbourne, and tabloid TV was there in full force. Miley was one of the best-dressed of the night, in a white pants suit. Nothing under the jacket, of course, which was cut low. Sigh. Miley got a birthday smack from Osbourne, and Rocsi, who is way cute, asked for a smack herself. (Whut?!) Miley obliged, with the ass-slapping action exposing quite a bit of breast. ET, what are you up to? Speaking of pretty young things, we recommend checking out two new shows on the pretty-youngthings network, the CW. Both Arrow and The Tomorrow People have much to offer in the way of action, sci-fi and hot actors. Arrow has also added the talented young actress Bex Taylor-Klaus to its cast as the character Sin. Taylor-Klaus delivered an Emmy-worthy performance as Bullet, the young homeless lesbian on AMC’s The Killing last season. AMC cancelled the show after three seasons (stupidly), but Netflix announced last week it would be picking up the show for a final season. Taylor-Klaus would be one more reason to watch. The girl, 18, has talent to spare. Another reason to watch Arrow and Tomorrow People is Greg Berlanti (Brothers & Sisters), fast becoming one of the best gay showrunners on the tube. Finally, MSNBC finally bowed to the pressure of our great and powerful LGBT lobby and fired Alec Baldwin’s homophobic ass, canceling his show Up Late. We aren’t sure what took so long. We have said all along that if Paula Deen was divested of her TV empire for admitting to using the n-word 30 years ago, then Baldwin, who’s been videotaped a gazillion times using the “faggot” word, and has taken to Twitter threatening a gay writer and calling him a “toxic little queen,” should be divested of his. We’re not sure why Capitol One is standing by Baldwin, but we know we’re not alone in canceling our cards with them, citing Baldwin as the reason. We hope other people fed up with Baldwin’s homophobia do the same. If enough of us do, Capital One will get the message. GLAAD said of Baldwin, “Mr. Baldwin can’t fight for equality on paper while degrading gay people in practice.” We couldn’t agree more. We’ve always been a fan of Baldwin as an actor and an ally, but if this is what comes out of your mouth when you’re angry, it’s what’s in your head all the time. You have to think it to say it. Baldwin says it more than any stereotypical redneck. To catch out the homophobes in hiding, and to see what the gays will be doing next on your favorite shows, you know what you have to do. Stay tuned!t

Books>>

December 5-11, 2013 • Bay area reporter • 39

Verities of vaudeville by John F. Karr

nticipation aroused by the arrival of a full-scale biography of Mama Rose – the mother of Gypsy Rose Lee – is not quite met by joy in its reading. Fact is, Mama Rose’s Turn (University Press of Mississippi, cloth, $35), which is subtitled The True Story of America’s Most Notorious Stage Mother, is a bit of a slog. It’s not that author Carolyn Quinn hasn’t done a decent job, or that her research hasn’t been thorough. But this is her first time out. A brief dustjacket blurb describes her as “a historical researcher and urban photographer.” So better luck next time. The facts are all here, but Quinn’s words don’t bring Madame Rose to life. Yet there’s an awful lot here. You will get a decent taste of the vaudeville life, and what it was like backstage at the burlesque. And you’ll learn a lot about Rose. She came from a large family of fairly emancipated women. She and her sisters,

Shine!

From page 25

“We are looking for a diva,” he told her. Harris’ reply: “I speak diva fluently.” Harris has sung three lead roles at SF Opera this season, according to Seelig. She’s currently an Adler Fellow at the Opera. “You are at the top of your game if you are an Adler Fellow,” Seelig said. In addition to paying homage to the San Francisco Opera, the Chorus will be tipping its hat to the San Francisco Ballet. “All I’ll say, and this is an exclusive for the B.A.R., is that this concert required the purchase of 300 tutus,” Seelig said. “They’re not going to be worn around the waist, they go elsewhere!” He wouldn’t say where. Seelig urged parents not to worry. “This is a family-friendly show,” he promised. “Absolutely!” The chorus and Ms. Harris are

SFGMC

From page 25

SFGMC veteran of 29 years. “We’ve been able to survive and thrive, but the thrust of the show – and the issue it addresses – is whether a gay men’s chorus is still relevant.” Divided into chronological sections laid out on six wall panels, each covering a specific period, the exhibit makes liberal use of archival materials such as newspaper clippings, posters, photographs, playbills and other ephemera. The story opens with “Awakened by Tragedy,” a chapter that begins in 1978, “an unbelievable, magical year in San Francisco,” Burtch says, that saw Milk elected to the SF Board of Supervisors and the appearance of the first gay flag. At the same time, the group fought to have its programs publicized in the Chronicle – the offending illustration deemed inappropriate for a family-friendly paper is here – and for permission to perform in San Francisco churches, a battle they won in 1979, when they participated in the first Pride concert held at Grace Cathedral. From 1981-83, the chorus was riding high, buoyed by the release of their first album and rave reviews

James Levine

From page 36

to. Evidence is that he was withholding personality until his solo encore, the composer’s engaging Rondo, “Rage Over a Lost Penny,” five minutes of unfettered digital brilliance. By now the Lohengrin Prelude should be a piece in which Levine is

emulating their mother and grandmother, got up and went. So it wasn’t odd that when Rose discovered her three-year-old daughter could toe dance, a theatrical career developed. Why did Rose do it? You can skip all the psychoanalyzing. She did it because she could. Without any training or background in theatre, she made her daughters into headliners on the Orpheum circuit, earning $1,500 a week, and not just playing in the featured slot on a bill with Sophie Tucker, but playing it so well and getting so much applause that the star felt threatened enough to demand the kids’ act be truncated or played in a less prominent spot on the bill. Like before the trained seal. After Gypsy became famous, Rose had to keep moving, keep earning. This was a woman who couldn’t be contained. She churned through professions, including running a lesbian boarding house cum bordello. Yes, for most of her life, Rose

was lesbian. Author Quinn won’t or can’t speak any more deeply on that than to comment on Rose’s curious change in taste from men to women. But back then? Of course Rose married and had children. And only after flinging herself out on her own, getting out into the world, unbinding herself from her man and societal expectations, did she most likely realize she was lesbian all along. Or even more likely, gain the situational freedom to act upon her own desires. Colorful careers were a Rose specialty, as was the constant selfsabotage she inflicted on herself, and the lawsuits she waged and the outright scams she perpetrated. Whole lotta sham and illegality going on, and for sure, these are interesting things to read about. The lady had a colorful life. I wish it were more colorful to read about, though, or the author had dug deeper. Like that act she created. If you really wanna know about vaudeville, you’ll seek

going to be joined onstage by Cheer SF. “They are amazing,” Seelig said. “They’re America’s favorite philanthropic cheerleaders since 1980. They’re at every Pride event, they’re at the Folsom and Castro Street fairs, they cheer every gay event and raise money for gay causes.” We wondered what other treats might be in store for those who attend the performance. “At one point, the entire Chorus will be transformed into a snow-covered mountain,” said Seelig. He didn’t explain exactly how this would happen, but promised that the audience will be dazzled by the lighting effects. “We’ll be singing excerpts from The Nutcracker, and a lot of other stunningly beautiful music.” There will even be a serious moment, as the Chorus pays its respects to LGBT family members who don’t have it as easy as we do. “We’ll be singing a gorgeous male chorale

piece in Russian, in solidarity with LGBT Russians, right before the Sochi games,” Seelig said. “I’m so happy to be at the opera, where the acoustics are the best in town” It’ll be a busy month for the Chorus. On December 24, Christmas Eve, they return to the Castro Theatre for three shows in which they will once again be joined by Marina Harris. The 24th Annual Home for the Holidays concert performs at the Castro at 5, 7 and 9 p.m.t

in The New York Times, The Boston Globe and The Washington Post, some of which are displayed here, along with the super-sized key to the city presented by Dianne Feinstein at a ceremony at Davies Symphony Hall. A photo memorializing the event – it was first time a gay group had been so honored – is on view. “We were a big deal,” recalls Burtch. But there was trouble on the horizon. A headline on the cover of a 1981 issue of The Advocate trumpets, “On the Road with SFGMC,” while in the lower right corner is the ominous query, “A Gay Cancer?” It was a harbinger of the looming catastrophe explored in a section titled “Singing for Our Lives,” which chronicles the response of the chorus to AIDS (1984-98), a grim era that took the lives of hundreds of members, including SFGMC founder Jon Sims. At one point, the disease thinned the ranks to a mere 96 voices. Despite the losses, the chorus kept a high profile, performing, raising money for the sick, and garnering media attention for the crisis. A New York Times front-page article reads, “In Face of AIDS, a Chorus Stands Taller”; and Singing Positive, an award-winning documentary, was produced by a French TV crew that spent a year focusing on the impact

of AIDS on several chorus members. Not surprisingly, the most exciting aspect of the show is the music, and one wishes that there were more of it. Utilizing a classy touch-screen component with high production values, one can access excerpts from SFGMC performances such as U.S.S. Metaphor or The Lad That Loved a Sailor, a parody of Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore that mercilessly skewers the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy with wicked double entendres, a transgender character, a large cast of boisterous, closeted sailors, and the former chorus chairman and choir director in drag with white gloves, ladylike handbags and bulging biceps that cannot be constrained by a skimpy pink halter dress. Though they were a scarce commodity in the early days, gay composers write the majority of SFGMC’s current repertoire, which keeps the group connected to the concerns and tastes of modern audiences. Last year’s productions included I Am Harvey Milk, an original work with a stellar Broadway pedigree that premiered the same day that the Supreme Court ruled DOMA unconstitutional. On tap for 2014 are a pair of commissioned pieces: Jake Heggie’s For a Look and a Touch, about

untouchable. I’ve heard him play it in the house, in context, when I’ve been transported by the sheer soaring radiance of it all. The Carnegie Hall performance reduced it to an orchestral showpiece, extravagantly well-played when it could have and should have carried its audience straight to heaven. Perhaps the verdict on the

Schubert is by now predictable. If the playing could be divorced from the music-making, this might count as one of the great renditions of “The Great.” If the performance were designed to showcase the orchestra, the sleek if weighty playing would have made sense on its own terms. But at that moment, the Orchestra Jimmy Built had nothing further to prove,

out From the Bowery to Broadway: Lew Fields and the Roots of American Popular Theatre. It recreates acts, gives us song lyrics and actual scripts of the skits. What does Quinn give us? Well, we read any number of times about Madame Rose’s papier

mâché cow, which earned near immortality with a featured number in Gypsy, and which bovine, quite incidentally, shared a name with the present book’s author. But do we learn what the cow did in Rose’s act, or how, in what song, what the lyrics to that song might have been, who sang it? Nada. Not a word or a moo. That’s only typical of the book’s notable omissions. The book should have been a good deal shorter; it’s repetitious as all get-out, and it’s curiously circular at times, scooting forward then doubling back around. I could quibble with grammatical infelicities, but it’s the structure and flat-footed writing that impede enjoyment. It’s notable that while the author’s Acknowledgements thank scores of people, the name of an editor or even the announcement of that position are totally absent. So, mixed bag. Madame Rose didn’t kill vaudeville, and her bio won’t kill the book trade. Here she is, boys. Here’s Rose. The real one.t

Tickets for Shine! Our Brightest Holiday Show Ever (Dec. 6, 8 p.m., at the War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., SF) range from $25-75. Tickets for Home for the Holidays (Dec. 24, 5, 7 and 9 p.m., at the Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St., SF) range from $25-35. Tickets can be purchased at www. sfgmc.org

Courtesy of SFGMC

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus Artistic Director/Conductor Dr. Tim Seelig leads the chorus in a previous Home for the Holidays concert.

John Vajda

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus performing with the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall, March 2012.

a gay couple who survived the Holocaust; and Tyler’s Suite, based on the story of the gay Rutgers University student who killed himself after his roommate secretly filmed his assignations in their dorm. In his review of the landmark 1979 concert at Grace Cathedral, the B.A.R.’s George Heymont synthesized the prevailing theme of this exhibition: “Music is a powerful weapon with which to confront the

forces of political oppression,” he wrote. “Whether it be the head of an organized religion tackling the forces of Communist oppression or the musicians of the Gay community performing on the sacred grounds of organized religion, music is perhaps the greatest equalizer of all.”t

while Levine, ironically and perhaps unfairly, had never had more to prove. If his point was to show that this was no wimp or gimp with the stick, he left no doubters. It’s not just that he spat in the eye of the HIP crowd for any insights it might have cast on a period-sensitive performance of this music, he cuffed his modern-day listeners

about the ears with it. It’s not that the performance was entirely unmoving, but when it was, the credit was largely due to Schubert (whose piano-duo music Levine and Kissin have performed at Carnegie with the same emphasis of virtuosity over sensibility). Astoundingly, DG’s engineers seem to have punched up the sound.t

Through Jan. 15. Info: www. glbthistory.org.

Tapestry of Talent

Sharon McNight

NIGHTLIFE PORN

SPIRITS

SEX

Wham, Bam, Pam!

SOCIETY

ROMANCE

LEATHER

PERSONALS Vol. 43 • No. 49 • December 5-11, 2013

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ith a drink and a smile, they give us what we want. And although they’re professionals, sometimes we can’t help but hope for more than a cocktail or a beer. What is it about bartenders that’s such an attraction? And what happens when a customer wants more than a glassful? Inspired by “Bartender,” gay singersongwriter Eric Himan’s catchy tune about a customer’s drunken crush, I asked three of San Francisco’s more popular bartenders what it’s like to be the subject of amorous alcohol-induced affection. Not surprisingly, these sanguine saloon servers are not only good at what they do. They’re engaged in our community and enjoy their jobs.

Regular Joe

(Why do we always fall in love with…) Lexington Club’s Natalie Purcell toasts with customers.

by Jim Provenzano Georg Lester

His muscular frame and tattooed arms have plenty of appeal, but moreso, Joe Lovitt’s smile reveals a boyish glow wrapped in a sarcastic sense of humor. Born and raised in Sylvania, Ohio, Lovitt came out big at age 16 as “the gay kid” in a large Catholic family that includes a lesbian sister. He lived in Hawaii before making San Francisco his current home four and a half years ago. “I was a deck hand and waiter on boats in Maui,” Lovitt said of his diversion from working for nonprofits after his college years in Human Services. “I realized I enjoyed the boating thing a bit more, so I got my captain’s license.” See page 2 >>

Katya and Connie Ring in the Season by David-Elijah Nahmod

onnie Champagne and Katya Smirnoff-Skyy are both beloved icons on the local cabaret scene. Both will help to usher in the holiday season with separate appearances, along with co-starring roles in the grand extravaganza Christmas With the Crawfords. On December 18 at 8PM, Champagne will perform Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas: An Evening With Connie Champagne as Judy Garland at Feinstein’s, inside the Hotel Nikko. The following night, December 19 at 8PM, exiled Russian drag royal Smirnoff-Skyy appears at Feinstein’s in her own holiday concert. The pair will be at Feinstein’s fresh on the heels of their co-starring roles in Christmas at the Crawfords at the Performing Arts Center at Napa Valley’s Lincoln Theater. Smirnoff-Skyy, whose real name is J. Conrad Frank, will be seen as Mommie Dearest, while Champagne again portrays Judy Garland. This

time Liza’s mom is Joan’s dinner guest. Christmas With the Crawfords’ curtain rises on December 6 and 7. “I’m very excited about Feinstein’s,” Champagne said to BARtab. “I’ll be doing a lot of Judy’s songs, and a few that Judy should have done. I never choose a song that wouldn’t resonate with her.” Champagne explained Judy’s appeal to gay men. “She had an honesty and a vulnerability that people respond to,” she said. “You don’t have to be a gay man to respond to her. Judy sang the blues but also made people laugh.” Smirnoff-Skyy’s thick Russian accent is an established part of her stage persona. There was no trace of that accent when he spoke in this interview, however. “I always do the accent on stage,” said Frank. “I can turn it on or off as I get on or off the stage.” Frank described the upcoming Feinstein’s show. “It’s Katya’s holiday spectacular, a voyage into the delusional See page 3 >>

Katya Smirnoff-Skyy in Christmas With the Crawfords.

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

2 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Bartender

From page 1

After “getting the itch” to move to the Bay Area, Lovitt, now 31, brought his affable people skills to leading Ride the Ducks tours. “It’s kind of embarrassing to admit, but to be able to be a comedian and just make people laugh for an hour and a half on a tour, four times a day, was great.” Lovitt also led thousands of hours worth of whale-watching trips to the Farrallon Islands and other boating-related tours. Lovitt said he was the first person hired in advance of the popular leather bar’s re-opening in March. “I started part time, but now I’m more into it,” he said. “It’s brought a lot of good things into my life.” “It’s been a wild ride working for the Eagle, because I’m kind of a public ambassador. You represent the business. People know me. I’ll sometimes make a sarcastic Facebook post, but it’s all in fun.” As part of that fun, Lovitt will be competing in the Mr. Eagle contest on December 12 at the bar (3pm6pm, 398 12th St.). Lovitt said he prefers working at The Eagle’s back bar, and compared it to manning a ship, in a way. “I like to be in control, see who’s there. I’ve always enjoyed

EDITOR Jim Provenzano DESIGNERS Jay Cribas, Scott King ADVERTISING SALES Scott Wazlowski 415-359-2612 CONTRIBUTORS Ray Aguilera, Matt Baume, Scott Brogan, Heather Cassell, Coy Ellison, Michael Flanagan, Dr. Jack Fritscher, John F. Karr, T. Scott King, Sal Meza, David Elijah-Nahmod, Adam Sandel, Donna Sachet, Jim Stewart, Ronn Vigh PHOTOGRAPHY Biron, Marques Daniels, Don Eckert, Lydia Gonzales, Rick Gerharter, Jose Guzman-Colon, Georg Lester, Dan Lloyd, Jim Provenzano, Rich Stadtmiller, Monty Suwannukul, Steven Underhill BARtab is published by BAR Media, Inc. PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT Michael M. Yamashita CHAIRMAN Thomas E. Horn VP AND CFO Patrick G. Brown SECRETARY Todd A. Vogt BAR Media, Inc. 225 Bush Street, Suite 1700, San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 861-5019 www.BARtabSF.com NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 LEGAL COUNSEL Paul H. Melbostad Member National Gay Newspaper Guild Copyright © 2013, Bay Area Reporter, a division of BAR Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

BARtab

Eagle bartender Joe Lovitt offers another “wet” pour.

working with people. It just makes it more fun.” Fun for patrons as well, especially when Lovitt’s dressed in a jock strap and little else. Yet he feels comfortable presenting himself in a sexy way, “because I have this big barrier, the bar. It’s a wonderful thing. There’s always someone who makes a pass, but it’s just not my style to respond much. I think I’ve kissed guys, like twice. I’m very polite. But as some of the older bartenders have told me, it’s like playing a role, which is very true. I’ve been Captain Joe, Duck Tour Joe. But I’m always respectful.” Lovitt does endure some amusing flirtations, like one favorite line from a patron, “This drink would go down easier if you had your shirt off.” But what about when guys hit on him in a less than polite way? “I mention my imaginary husband. I’ve had several boyfriends.” He’s currently dating. “Sometimes I’m ‘straight.’ It depends,” he smiled. And although he does work at the most prominent leather bar, the straps and chaps don’t make moving around comfortable; thus the jock straps and swim trunks. “You’re just sweating all night and you need to be comfortable. I like underwear, since I like to ‘swing.’” Lovitt said his major social outlet is his time spent at The Eagle, where he usually works Thursdays through Sundays. He enjoys contrasting quiet time with his friends and his beloved dog along with enjoying the outdoors. When he does go out, he occasionally enjoys being part of a community of coworkers. “There is a kind of bartender code, when we go to each others’ bars. We kind of take care of each other, talk shop, event flyers, what works and what doesn’t.” And although his tourism jobs included mostly straight tourists, he said he likes the familiarity of working in a gay bar, specifically one like the Eagle, which attracts a diverse clientele. “I’ve worked in P-Town, New York, and the thing I like about The Eagle is, anyone can walk in there.” “Most gay people have gone to gay bars since they were young,” said Lovitt. “Tourists at Pride can be a bit more difficult. I love the big holidays, but it’s a whole difference experience. On big days, I just don’t drink behind the bar. With locals, I tend to drink a bit more, because it’s more relaxed. And then,” he smiled again. “If you’re lucky, some clothes come off, too.” As witnessed one night, Lovitt, clad only in a Speedo and shoes, had

almost a dozen men lined up at his side of the bar, while his coworkers had notably fewer patrons. At a typical beer bust, he said he can make up to $500 a day. “We make jokes about it, but it’s okay, because we pool tips,” he said. “I don’t mind working harder, or just in a difference sense, because it all balances out. At the end of the night, my coworkers have their tips neatly piled up, and I just have a pile of wet, soggy money.”

Lexability

As a bartender for four years at the popular Lexington Club, Natalie Purcell has received plenty of customer flirtations. Since becoming an assistant manager as well, she’s taken on more responsibilities at the Mission bar, known for its celebratory lesbian and queer clientele. “I’ve become more of a night owl,” said Purcell, who was a paralegal before working at The Lexington. “The nine to five was getting to me.” A frequent customer at the Lexington (3464 19th St.) since turning 21, Purcell, now 27, said she has enjoyed the transition to nightlife employment, particularly at one of few such venues. “At The Lexington, we pride ourselves on being a dyke bar and a queer bar,” she said. “There have obviously been a lot of changes in the local demographic. Also, the bar gives back in a lot ways, with sponsoring the Dyke March and other events for a lot of lesbian and queer people.” So how does Purcell deal with flirtatious customers, even though she has a girlfriend? “I do make better tips when she’s not at the bar,” said Purcell. “She definitely frequents the bar and is there. But one aspect of bartending is, you have to put your hat, whether it’s as a therapist, a lawyer, or a romantic flirt. You have to play a bit, and be open to that. Otherwise, you’re not going to be catering to your customer base and that’ll only get you so far. People will remember your attitude.” Purcell said her job is “not just serving drinks.” And what about when a customer offers the bartender a cocktail or a shot? “Well, I do drink,” she said. “But obviously, whenever you’re working, you have to measure yourself. If you’re drunk, even a drunk customer isn’t going to take you seriously. But of course, taking an occasional shot with customers is important. It keeps the vibe up. If we’re having a huge party,

courtesy Erick Lopez

Erick Lopez at The Edge.

people can get carried away. But it’s part of the perks.” Among those big events are the annual Pride celebrations and Dyke March after-party, which Purcell described as “a huge block party.” Folsom weekend, the bar’s anniversaries, and New Year’s Eve and Halloween, are also crowded events. Some nights have been wilder than others. “One customer, we actually caught her peeing in the sink in our bathroom,” Purcell said with a laugh. She also added that the mixed clientele of their bar may become a standard in the future, with the rampant gentrification of the Mission and other parts of San Francisco. “For gay and queer communities, it’s become more acceptable,” said Purcell. “But I think that with a lot of gay bars having closed, we may not necessarily need more space. But conversely, I think it’s important to have spaces that are ours. I have no problem with straight people visiting. But they need to be mindful that it is a queer bar. We need a space to feel comfortable. I want to say, ‘You walked under that rainbow flag to get in here.’” Still, Purcell and her coworkers do often play a simple game, specifically when tourists walk in. “Foreign women are surprised and happy that there’s a lesbian bar to feel comfortable and safe,” she said. “Men can sometimes not be aware. It’s one of my favorite looks, when it hits them that they’re in a lesbian bar. We bet on how long it takes them to get it.”

The Edge of Glory

For Erick Lopez, bartending happened almost by chance. Two and a half years ago, he was dancing on the bar, not working behind it, at the renovated Edge bar on 18th Street in the Castro. “The manager was collecting glasses. I asked if she needed help, and it was a busy week.” Lopez began working barback shifts, and then became a part-time bartender. Since then, he’s also become responsible for hiring gogo dancers. Along with serving drinks with a smile, Lopez has brought his own community involvement into the popular bar’s ambiance. He produces the annual Mr. Edge contest, and is Den Daddy for the Mr. SF Leather contests. “I helping them get dressed, and undressed, and answer any questions they have,” said Lopez, who, with his boyfriend of four

years, are active in other leather activities as well. So, do his friends tip more generously? “I would say so,” he said. “Some people are just nicer.” But do some patrons expect a little more than friendly service? “It depends on the situation,” said Lopez, who said that he and his boyfriend are in an open relationship. “I’m still responsive, but I still get a few come-ons where I have to be a bit diplomatic. I try not to be rude, but you have to keep it simple. The easiest way is to look behind them and remind them that I have other customers.” Lopez had no problem being the center of attention at his 30th birthday party, held November 23 at The Edge. Although he’d also had private celebrations with friends, combining his fete with his monthly Code leather-themed event turned out well. “I ended up taking the night off, because I figured if I’m gonna be partying I shouldn’t work.” Lopez said he’s planning more events at the bar, which encourages a more diverse clientele. “Each bar has a certain scene,” he said. “But we have a range of events. Mondays are all about musicals,” with cast members from touring Broadway shows stopping by for some singing. “Wednesdays are dark and cruisy, and Cookie Dough’s Thursdays fill the bar with performing drag queens.” As an example of the younger generation of leather-kink, Lopez said he’s proud to bring the usually South of Market-associated community to the Castro. “It’s also nice to see that leather’s no longer about rules or guidelines, like someone my age can’t be a dominant person, or an older guy can’t be a boy,” Lopez noted, who, along with his partner, lead the Young Leathermen’s Discussion Group events, and will organzie the December 7 Mr. Edge Leather contest (4149 18th St.) Asked if a little dominance comes in handy when dealing with a drunken customer, Lopez said offering a glass of water is the first polite step. “Some people get aggressive, but I’d rather cut someone off before it escalates. That’s why we have security staff, who try to politely escort someone out. But most of the time, people get the message before it comes to that.” So whether you drink soda or whiskey, remember, the bartender’s there to make you drinks, not make your love life. Flirt, be friendly, and tip generously.t

t <<

Read more online at www.ebar.com

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 3

Seasonal Sisters

From page 1

holiday mind of a Russian lady of an indiscriminate age. I’ll sing new songs, old songs, there will be something for everyone. I’ll tell life stories, like being at the White House in 1988, and my friendship with the Beatles. Imagine a show by a Russian ex-opera singer who works at Macy’s during the day.” Frank also performs weekly at Feinstein’s with Joe Wicht (aka Mrs. Trauma Flintstone) on Wednesdays at their happy hour Broadway Bingo trivia night. But Frank was not concerned that his Russian-centric act might be considered inappropriate in the light of the anti-gay laws recently passed in Russia. “We can blame the Russian political system,” he said. “There are a lot of good Russian people who support the LGBT community since July.” Smirnoff-Skyy is very happy to be performing in Christmas With the Crawfords. In the show, Joan is visited for the holidays during the 1940s by various movie characters, including Bette Davis’ Baby Jane, a character created nearly two decades later. “It’s not the truth, but everything you remember to be true,” said Frank. Champagne’s Judy Garland will be among Joan’s guests. F. Allen Sawyer directs Champagne for her Feinstein’s show. It was Sawyer who first saw Champagne in the Judy role. “I’m very excited about Feinstein’s,” Champagne said. “I’ll be reunited with Barry Lloyd, we did cabaret together back in the golden age of cabaret, before I was Connie Champagne. I’ll be singing all kinds of holiday songs, like Chanukah in Santa Monica.” I always add new songs. I consider my show a little bit Wicca. I’m looking for a Wiccan song.” “I’ll be doing an evening of belting, ball gowns and a whole lot of booze,” said Frank as he hinted toward his character Smirnoff-Skyy. “A little vodka always makes the yuletide gay!”t

Kent Taylor

Jose Guzman-Colon

Katya Smirnoff-Skyy For information on the holiday extravaganzas at Feinstein’s, please visit www.Feinsteinssf.com Information on Christmas With the Crawfords can be found at www.lincolntheater.com

Connie Champagne as Judy Garland.

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

4 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Tapestry of Talent by Donna Sachet

n Saturday, November 23, we shared in an intimate night at Martuni’s with Carole King’s music from Tapestry, as sung by X-Factor finalist and local singing sensation Jason Brock. You’ve got to hear this guy to know what people are talking about. His powerful but nuanced voice gave new life to timeless songs like Natural Woman, Too Late, and You’ve Got a Friend, the last one in a duet with Michelle Ianiro and all accompanied beautifully by Alan Choy. Whether with a small group, on a date, or simply out by yourself, Martuni’s never disappoints; attentive staff, generous cocktails, warm ambiance, and a friendly pianist who encourages amateurs all combine for a rare, sophisticated evening. Later that night we headed South of Market as Brian Kent, one of the partners at Beatbox, celebrated his birthday, in combination with their Evolution dance party with DJs Christopher B and Marco Da Silva. In just over a year in San Francisco, Brian has shared his musical talents, gathered quite a group of fabulous friends, and built up a great club in which to celebrate! The light show was incredible, the music out of this world, and the crowd epic, including Frankie Valenti and some of my favorite dancing buddies, Suzan Revah, Joanna Parks, Ira Olney and Troy Arnold, Steven Satyricon, Bebe Sweetbriar, and James Torres. In keeping with a long tradition, the recently elected Grand Duke and Duchess of San Francisco invested their newly formed court, but this was no stuffy affair! Held at Kink.com or the Armory on Mission Street, Kippy Marks and Pat N Leather’s voodoo theme merged perfectly with the Victorian décor of the fourth floor

event room. Musical numbers ran the gamut, but Emperor John Weber stopped the show with his haunting, other-worldly performance. Among the throng were many Dukes and Duchesses, several Emperors and Empresses, and other hopefuls. Many titles were distributed, plans were announced, and traditions were challenged. This pair plans to rock the boat a bit, but will undoubtedly continue their admirable record of fun events and successful fundraising. On Tuesday, November 26, we had the pleasure of joining in the dramatic unveiling ceremonies for the historic mural installed at the Wells Fargo Castro branch. Party guests included visiting Stuart Milk, City Supervisors David Campos, Scott Wiener, and David Chiu, Reigning Empress Patty McGroin, Miss Gay SF Jezebel Patel, Mr. Edge Leather Patrick Holstine, Bevan Dufty, LGBT Community Center Executive Director Rebecca Rolfe, and GLBT Historical Society’s Paul Boneberg. Members of the SF Gay Men’s Chorus provided musical entertainment. Wells executives included Tracy Curtis, Alec Hughes, Mark Tristan Paloma Ng, and Alfredo Pedroza. This mural is an incredible gift to the neighborhood and the larger LGBT Community, featuring the images of Harry Hay, Jose Sarria, Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin, and Harvey Milk, representing an ongoing commitment to diversity, history, and community involvement. We salute Wells Fargo and invite all to pay a visit to see this work of art. The popular drag re-enactment of The Golden Girls television series’ Christmas episodes begins tonight, Thursday December 5, at the Victoria Theatre for 12 performances only. Starring Heklina, Cookie Dough, Matthew

Rich Stadtmiller

New royalty at the Ducal Investiture.

Donna Sachet (in red, of course) with local politicians and officials at the Wells Fargo mural celebration.

Patty McGroin, Tracy Curtis and Jezebel at the Wells Fargo mural unveiling.

Martin, and Pollo del Mar, this show’s bound to get you in the holiday spirit. Watch for periodic guest stars in hilarious cameo roles, including Siister Roma, Fernando Ventura and Greg Sherrell of radio fame, and this humble writer on opening night, which also benefits AIDS Housing Alliance. The next night, Friday, December 6, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, under the direction of Tim Seelig, proudly returns to the War Memorial Opera House for Shine, their sparkling holiday show with almost 300 singing members, piano, harps, and guest singer Marina Harris. This chorus never ceases to amaze us with its technical mastery, unparalleled enthusiasm, and theatrical creativity! Watch for nearly 600 pom-poms and a packed house. Then on Monday, December 9, the Richmond/Ermet AIDS

Foundation brings another dazzling holiday show to the Marine’s Memorial Theatre at 7:30PM. Performers include Debby Boone, Davis Gaines, Tim Hockenberry, Tom Lowe, Sharon McNight, Kim Nalley, Carly Ozard, Jai Rodriguez, Shawn Ryan, and Bruce Vilanch. With that line-up, how can you go wrong? Tuesday, December 10, we’ll be officiating the lighting of the Tree of Hope in the Rotunda of City Hall, provided by the Rainbow World Fund and always attended by a diverse crowd of City officials, local luminaries, families, and others. The thousands of origami decorations and twinkling white lights make it a magnificent spectacle. On Thursday, December 12, don’t miss Drag Queens on Ice, 8-9:30PM, at the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square. We’ll have special

guest skaters, visiting players and cheerleaders from the San Francisco Bulls hockey team, and other surprises. We’ll be the drag queen off the ice, but on the microphone. This “only-in-San Francisco” event will give you another reason to love living here. And on Saturday, December 14, we make our annual sojourn to the East Bay for Mama Portugal’s Christmas party at the World Famous Turf Club in Hayward. Drop in from 5-9PM for food, raffle, an auction, and a show. We’re co-emceeing with the always entertaining Jacques Michaels. Join us! Finally, December brings the Miracle on Powell Street to Sunday’s a Drag at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel’s Starlight Room. We have a special effect at the end of each show that will leave you breathless.t

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December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 5

Helping All the Way

THE RICHMOND/ERMET AIDS FOUNDATION PRESENTS

Sharon McNight’s our stand-up singer by David-Elijah Nahmod

n Monday, December 9, the Marines Memorial Theater will host the latest Help Is On the Way for the Holidays gala. As always, the event will benefit The Richmond Ermet AIDS Foundation. But Sharon Mcnight, a stalwart performer, has been singing at benefits since before some younger local LGBT folks were even born. Richmond Ermet was co-founded by Barbara Richmond and Peggy Ermet, close friends who lost their sons to AIDS. The organization’s mission is to raise funds, which are then distributed to a variety of AIDS service organizations. The Positive Resource Center and Maitri Compassionate Care are the beneficiaries of the December 9 show. The impressive line-up includes comic extraordinaire Bruce Vilanch, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy’s Jai Rodriguez, Debby Boone, cast members from New Conservatory Theater Center’s production of Avenue Q and the Broadway touring company of The Book of Mormon. Cabaret superstar Sharon McNight, a longtime friend to people with AIDS, will also appear. “I did the first Help is On the Way in 19....I don’t know what year,” McNight said in an interview. “My involvement with AIDS goes way back. Even in New York, I did Divas for Dollars, which was part of the Stamp Out AIDS project that John Glines started. It’s now Broadway Cares: Equity Fights AIDS.” The Tony-nominated performer still isn’t sure what songs she’ll be performing at Help is on the Way. “I’ve been very, very busy,” she said. “My musical director, Joan Edgar, and I have done a Christmas show every year, so I have a lot to choose from. The event’s director, David Galligan and I, have spoken, and he trusts my judgement.” McNight’s history of community support runs deep. She’s performed at countless benefits over the past

DECEMBER 9th

Marines’ Memorial Theater Benefiting Maitri & Positive Resource Center

JAI RODRIGUEZ ★ BRUCE VILANCH SHARON McNIGHT DEBBY BOONE ★ DAVIS GAINES JASON BROCK ★ SHAWN RYAN KIM NALLEY ★ CARLY OZARD Company members from

BOOK OF MORMON NCTC cast of AVENUE Q & MORE

Tickets: HelpIsOnTheWay.org United Airlines • DOT429 • KGO Radio

Sharon McNight

few decades. In October she sang at the block party wedding of longtime activists Tom Taylor and Jerry Goldstein, who tied the knot on their 40th anniversary. “I’ve known them for years,” she said. “The liquor and food was free, which is most important to musicians and unemployed actors!” It promises to be a night of music, dance and laughter, all for a great cause: improving the lives of people

with AIDS. The show commences at 7:30PM. Tickets are $50 for the show only. $100 gets you a seat for the show and entry into a post-performance reception with the stars.t Help Is On the Way For the Holidays, Monday, December 9, 7:30PM. Marines Memorial Theater, 609 Sutter, 2nd floor. www.helpisontheway.org

Sharon Mcnight in an early 1980s cabaret show

ebar.com

<< On the Tab

6 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Pan Dulce @ The Café

Bf eON THE-11T, A 2013 December 5

★

Amazingly hot Papi gogo guys, cheap drinks and fun DJed dance music. Free before 10pm. $5 til 2am. 2369 Market St. www.clubpapi.com www.cafesf.com

Thursday Night Live @ SF Eagle The weekly live rock shows have returned. 9pm-ish. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Enjoy the intimate groovy disco night with DJ Bus Station John. $7. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

VIP @ Club 21, Oakland Hip Hop, Top 40, and sexy Latin music; gogo dancers, appetizers, and special guest DJs. No cover before 11pm and just $5 after all night. Dancing 9pm-3am. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Sat 7

The Pristine Condition (right) hosts the Guerrilla Drag Party

Fri 6 $500,000 Milestone Celebration @ The Lookout

Sat 7

Bearracuda’s Holiday Party

Al Stewart @ Yoshi’s

t’s the holidays!” seems to be everyone’s excuse to be overwhelmed, overbooked and over it all. But you can blow off some Santa-caused steam at some of the celebratory galas and dance nights this week. Enjoy the feeling of giving at several benefits and toy drives, too.

The Frail, Double Duchess @ Rickshaw Stop

Thu 5 Aga Zaryan @ Yoshi's The remarkable jazz vocalist performs a concert of songs made famous by Nina Simone and Abbey Lincoln. $19-$25. 8pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Betty Buckley @ Feinstein at the Nikko The iconic Broadway, film and TV singer-actress performs The Vixens of Broadway, her cabaret show of classic “other women,” aka second female leads in hit musicals ( Chicago, Evita, Company, Oklahoma, Into the Woods). $50-$80. Dec 5 & 12, 8pm. Dec. 6 & 13, 8pm. Dec 7 & 14, 7pm. Dec 8 & 15, 7pm. Thru Dec. 15. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St.(866) 663-1063. www.ticketweb.com

Comedy Thursdays @ Esta Noche

Interesting local electro rock band and the astounding queer hip hop duo perform live, with Penguin Prison headlinging with a DJ set. $15. 9pm. 155 Fell St. www.rickshawstop.com

Fuego @ The Watergarden, San Jose Weekly event, with Latin music, half-off locker fees and Latin men, at the South Bay private men’s bath house. $8-$39. Reg hours 24/7. 18+. 1010 The Alameda. (408) 275-1215. www.thewatergarden.com

Gym Class @ Hi Tops Enjoy cheap/free whiskey shots from jockstrapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular new sports bar. 10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Jukebox @ Beatbox

The revamped weekly LGBT- and queerfriendly comedy night at the Mission club is hosted by various comics (1st Thu, Natasha Muse; 2nd Thu, Emily Van Dyke; 3rd Thu Eloisa Bravo and Kimberly Rose; 4th Thu Johan Miranda). No cover; one-drink min. 8pm. 307916th St. www.comedybodega.com

Veteran DJ Page Hodel (The Box, Q and many other events) presents a new weekly dance event, with soul, funk, hip-hop and house mixes. $10. 21+. 9pm-2am. 314 11th St. at Folsom. www.BeatboxSF.com

The Monster Show @ The Edge Cookie Dough’s weekly drag show with gogo guys and hilarous fun. $5. 9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

The folk-rock singer-songwriter (“Year of the Cat”) performs with Dave Machmanoff and his band. $24-$28. 8pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Bad Girl Cocktail Hour @ The Lexington Club Every Friday night, bad girls can get $1 dollar margaritas between 9pm and 10pm. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 8632052. www.lexingtonclub.com

Christmas With the Crawfords @ Lincoln Performing Arts Center, Yountville Katya Smirnoff-Skyy, Connie Champagne and a host of drag talents perform a unique revival of the classic parody of actress Joan Crawford’s holiday show. Special pre-show concert by Well-Strung, the men’s string quartet. Special cocktail party bus to and from San Francisco and Yountville. $45-$55. $125 VIP tickets include wine, hors d’eouvres and a private reception. 7pm. Also Dec. 7. (707) 9449900. www.lincolntheatre.com

Fedorable @ El Rio Free weekly queer dance party, with gogos, prizes, old groovy tunes, cheap cocktails. 9pm-2am. 3158 Mission St. 2823325. www.elriosf.com

Go-Beaux @ Beaux

Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun Open during renovations, the popular video bar ends each week with gogo guys (starting at 9pm) and drink specials. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com DJ Haute Toddy spins electro beats; cute gogo guys shake it. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

HYSL @ The Lookout Shots, drinks and DJed fun with the adorable David and Trevor. $2. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Josh Klipp and The Klipptones @ Palace Hotel The local jazz crooner and his band perform weekly shows at the hotel’s lounge, which draws a growing swingdance audience. 7pm-11pm. 2 New Montgomery. www.joshklipp.com

Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland Eight bars, more dance floors, and a smoking lounge; the largest gay Latin dance night in the Bay Area. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Picante @ Esta Noche

Suppositori Spelling as Leeloo in The Next Element

edgeon

Gogo-tastic weekly night at the new Castro club. Bring your dollahs, ‘cause they’ll make you holla. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Hard @ Qbar

Sat 7

We don’t jus

The popular bar-café with a view celebrates having raised half a million dollars in donations for local charities and sports teams; drink specials and a buffet. 5pm-9pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Weekly show with drag queens and the Picante Boys; hosted by Lulu Ramirez; DJ Marco. 9pm-2am. 3079 16th St. 841-5748. www.jceventssf.com

Point Break Live @ DNA Lounge Dude! The hilarious live staged version of the surf action thriller film that starred Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze is, like, totally back! See flying surfers hoisted mid-air, one lucky audience member recruited to perform the lead role of Johnny Utah with script in hand, and a gnarly fun time to be had by all. $25-$35 ($615 for VIP food, drinks and souvenirs for six). 7:30pm and 11pm. Also Jan. 3. 375 11th St. 626-1409. www.dnalounge.com

Release @ Club OMG Weekly party at the intimate mid-Market club; rotating hosts and DJs, Top 40 dance remixes, giveaways, gogo hunks. Free before 11pm. $3. 9pm-2am. 43 Sixth St. www.clubomgsf.com www.facebook.com/ReleaseSF

Ruby’s Lipstick Revue @ Longboard’s, Pacifica Holiday-themed drag show and toy drive at the oceanside margarita bar. Bring upwrapped toys for needy kids. 9pm-2am. 180 Eureka Square, Pacifica. (650) 738-5905.

Some Thing Mica Sigourney and pals’ weekly offbeat drag performance night. 10pm-2am. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com

The Tubes @ Yoshi’s Fee Waybill and his wild band of rock spectacle musicians perform their classic hits (“White Punks on Dope,” “She’s a Beauty”). $29-$33. 10:30pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Sat 7 Bearracuda @ Beatbox The fifth annual holiday party features DJs Matt Consola and Medic, plus plenty of ho ho hos. $6-$10. 9pm-3am. 314 11th St. www.bearracuda.com www.beatboxsf.com

Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Beer Bust & Toy Drive @ SF Eagle Holiday event for Mama’s Toy Drive. Bring an unwrapped toy or gift card. $12 beer bust. 3pm-6pm. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Black XXXmas @ Factory DJs Abel and Luke Johnstone spin dance tunes for the circuit set. $30-$40. 10pm4am. 525 Harrison St. at 1st. www.guspresents.com

On the Tab>>

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 7

Bootie SF @ DNA Lounge

Homo Erectus @ Qbar

Weekly mash-up dance night, with resident DJs Adrian & Mysterious D. No matter the theme, a mixed fun good time’s assured. $8-$15. 9pm-3am. 21+. 375 11th st. at Harrison. www.BootieSF.com www.DNAlounge.com

Enjoy the last of the sexy, slutty intimate dance parties, with DJs DcnStrct and MyKill, crazy-sexy gogos, all from the Cockfight crew (which will return in the spring). $5. Free before 11pm with flyer. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www. clubhomoerectus.com www.qbarsf.com

Operation T @ Beaux Enjoy drag performances by Moni Stat, Khemera Rouge, Nguyen Pham, Sabrina Marisol, the Rice Rockettes dance troupe, and MC Tita Aida at this fundraiser for Haiyan Typhoon Recovery; raffle includes donated items from local businesses, strippers for cash. No cover and 10% of drink prices go to the cause. 7pm-10pm. 2344 Market St. www.Beauxsf.com

Club Rimshot @ Bench and Bar, Oakland Weekly hip hop and R&B night. $8-$15. 9pm to 4am. 510 17th St. www.bench-and-bar.com

The Next Element @ 180 Eleven Drag parody production of the Luc Besson scifi comedy classic film The Fifth Element, starring Suppositori Spelling, Trixxie Carr, Glamaore and others. $20. 8pm. 180 11th St.

Sex & Drags & Rock & Roll @ Midnight Sun Rock music drag night with Muthachucka, Anna Conda, Moni Stat, Frida Laye, Kit Tapata and others. Shows at 10:45 and 12am. 4067 18th St. www.midnightsunsf.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550 The popular country western LGBT dance night celebrates a decade and a half of fun foot-stomping two-stepping and linedancing. $5. 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. Also Thursdays. 550 Barneveld Ave., and Tuesdays at Beatbox, $6. 6:30-11pm. 314 11th St. www.sundancesaloon.org

Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room Donna Sachet hosts the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. December shows A Miracle on Powell Street , take on a holiday theme. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com

Toys for Tots @ St. Regis Ballroom Annual large-scale cocktail party with a cash bar; bring one upwrapped toy for a needy child. Cocktail attire (no jeans or sneakers). 4pm-7pm. RSVP: toysfortots. sf@gmail.com 3rd St. at Mission. www.stregissanfrancisco.com

Mon 9

st cover it...

Live It. Let EDGE Media Network bring you the very latest in LGBT news, entertainment, nightlife and more.

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Cock and Bull Mondays @ Hole in the Wall Saloon Specials on drinks made with Cock and Bull ginger ale (Jack and Cock, Russian Mule, and more). 8pm-closing. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Comedy Returns @ El Rio Sammy Obeid (1001 consecutive comedy gigs) headlines the monthly comedy night (2nd Mondays), with Marga Gomez, Bob McIntyre, Kevin Young, and Lisa Geduldig. $7-$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission St. at Precita. (800) 838-3006. www.elriosf.com

Help is on the Way for the Holidays @ Marines’ Memorial Theater The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation’s 12th annual holiday benefit concert includes performances by Bruce Vilanch, Jai Rodriguez, Tim Hockenberry, Carly Ozard, Debby Boone, Tom Lowe, Sharon McNight, Shawn Ryan, Jason Brock, cast members from New Conservatory Theatre’s Avenue Q, the Broadway touring cast of The Book of Mormon. Proceeds benefit Positive Resource Center and Maitri. Postconcert reception at Hotel Adagio (550) Geary St.) $75 and up. 7:30pm. 609 Sutter St. www.reaf.org

Holiday Heroes @ AT&T Park Holiday-themed fundraiser for with sports celebrities Joe and Jennifer Montana, Kristi Yamaguchi, Taiwan Jones, George Kontos, and players from the Oakland Raiders, SF 49ers and San Jose Earthquakes teams; kid-friendly games, arts and crafts, batting tee-offs and a silent auction of celebrity and sports-themed items. $75, $150 and up. 5:45-8:30pm. 24 Willie Mays Plaza. www.eventbrite.com

Mahogany Mondays @ Midnight Sun Honey Mahogany hosts the weekly drag and musical talent show, which starts around 10pm. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Monday Musicals @ The Edge Dickslap @ SF Eagle

Pulse @ Club OMG

Nark Magazine presents a wild disco cruisy night at the popular leather bar, with Taco Tuesday, Bright Light! Bright Light! And other talents. 9pm-2am. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

DJs Mike Biggs and B. Somebody play dance hits and Top 40 tunes. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. www.clubOMGsf.com

Go Bang @ The Stud Sergio Fedazs and Steve Fabus’ disco dance night celebrates its fifth anniversary, with guest DJs Ken Vulsion and Nicky B, with a performance by Vogue dance troupe The A. $7. Free before 10pm. 9pm-3am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.gobangsf.com www.studsf.com

Guerrilla Drag Party Bus @ Various Venues The Pristine Condition and DJ Dank’s off-the-hook roving party, with drag acts galore, gogo elves, booze and a holiday theme. Invade Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square and the Castro at various locales; drink tickets, cash bar. Meet at The Cinch, 1723 Polk St. at 12pm. $20. 1pm-6pm. www.cinchsf.com

Holiday Dance Party @ Sebastopol Senior Center LGBTQ holiday party, with DJ Joy playing retro and recent hits, with snacks, drinks and a sociable ambiance. $10. 6pm-10pm. 167 North High St. (707) 829-2440. www.sebastopolseniorcenter.org

Sun 8 Beer Bust @ SF Eagle The classic leather bar is back, with the most popular Sunday daytime event in town. 3pm-6pm (Also now open daily 11am-2am). 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

The popular Castro bar shows fun musicals each week. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

No-No Bingo @ Virgil’s Sea Room Tom Temprano and Vivianne Forevermore’s last bingo night of the year (2nd & 4th Mondays). Have fun, win prizes. 8pm12am. 3152 Mission St. www.virgilssf.com

Brunch @ Hi Tops

Salsa dancing for LGBT folks and friends, with live merengue and cumbia bands; tapas and donations that support local causes. 2nd & 4th Sundays. 3pm-8pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Booty Call @ Q Bar

Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com

Sports Night @ The Eagle The legendary leather bar gets jock-ular, with beer buckets, games (including beer pong and corn-hole!), prizes, sports on the TVs, and more fun. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Tue 10 13 Licks @ Q Bar Weekly women’s night at the stylish intimate bar. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Block Party @ Midnight Sun Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 8614186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Bombshell Betty & Her Burlesqueteers @ Elbo Room The weekly burlesque show of women dancers shaking their bonbons includes live music. $10. 9pm. 647 Valencia St. 5527788. www.elbo.com

A Christmas Show @ Beaux Cookie Dough and Landa Lakes cohost a holiday-themed drag night at the new Castro gay nightclub, featuring performances by the House of Glitter. 9:30pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.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

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre Strip down like the strippers, and enjoy a beverage at the erotic male theatre. $20. 8pm and 10pm. Also Sept 28. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www. thenobhilltheatre.com

Soma Country @ Beatbox Sundance Saloon’s monthly SoMa two-stepping dance night now takes place every Tuesday. $8. 8pm-12am. Lessons 8pm. 314 11th St. at Folsom. sundancesaloon.org www.beatboxsf.com Veronica Klaus hosts the weekly night of cabaret, jazz and blues music, with Tammy L. Hall and special guests. $15. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.facebook.com/veronica.klaus

Full of Grace @ Beaux

Salsa Sundays @ El Rio

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s

Torch @ Martuni’s

Enjoy crunchy sandwiches and mimosas, among other menu items, at the popular sports bar. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com New weekly night with hostess Grace Towers, different local and visiting DJs, and pop-up drag performances. This week, DJ Robin Simmons. No cover. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Thu 12

Wolfie Blue at Dirty Talk

Trivia Night @ Hi Tops

Mon 9

Sammy Obeid at Comedy Returns

Play the trivia game at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Wed 11 Queer Salsa @ Beatbox Weekly Latin partner dance night. 8pm1am. 314 11th St. www.beatboxsf.com

Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Dream Queens Revue @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge The drag show (2nd & 4th Wed) takes on a holiday theme, with featuring Collette LeGrande, Ruby Slippers, Sophilya Leggz, Bobby Ashton, Sheena Rose, Kipper, Davida Ashton, and Joie de Vivre. 9:3011:30pm. 133 Turk St. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Red Hots Burlesque @ El Rio Women’s burlesque show performs each Wed & Fri. Karaoke follows. $5-$10. 7pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Rookies Night @ Nob Hill Theatre Compete for $200 prize in this amatuer strip contest, or watch the newbies get naked. $20 includes refreshments. 8pm11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

So You Think You Can Gogo? @ Toad Hall New 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

Trivia Night @ Harvey’s Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes and fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com

Tuck & Patti @ Yoshi’s Husband and wife jazz duo perform; bring canned goods for the Glide Food Drive. $22-$23. 8pm. Also Dec. 12. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Thu 12 Dirty Talk @ Truck Michael Brandon, Wolfie Blue and Mr Pam share the lowdown on porn myths and realities, with giveaways and photo ops. 8:30-10:30pm. 1900 Folsom St. www.trucksf.com

Gym Class @ Hi Tops Enjoy cheap/free whiskey shots from jockstrapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular new sports bar. 10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

The Monster Show @ The Edge Cookie Dough’s weekly drag show with gogo guys. 9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Want your nightlife event listed? Facebook event pages ain’t enough, girlfriend. Reach 50,000+ readers. Email events@ebar.com, at least two weeks before your event. Event photos welcome.

<< Leather

8 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

Leather Events, Dec. 5-21 by Scott Brogan

ave a spanking good at these leather and events that’ll definitely you up amid December’s

time kink heat chill.

THU 05 Underwear Night @ The Powerhouse Wet undies contest, drink specials. 10pm. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

SAT 07 Looking Forward, Looking Back: LDG Anniversary and Holiday Party @ Mr. S Playspace Celebrate kink at the shop’s upstairs lounge. 2-4pm. 385A 8th St. www.facebook.com/events

Mr. Edge Leather @ The Edge Contest for the representative of the Castro bar. Contestants, get application forms from Erick Lopez or Patrick Dean Holstine. 9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. www.qbarsf.com/Edge

SUN 08 SF Men's Spanking Party @ The Power Exchange This is a male-only event (gay, bi or straight). Must be 18 years of age or older. This is not a leather fetish group. More for guys into spanking and spanking fantasies like traditional old fashioned spanning over Daddy’s knee or fraternity style pledge initiation paddling. $20 (half off for students and military). 1-6pm. 220 Jones St. www.voy.com/201188/

MON 09 SF Ring Holiday Party @ Club Eros

Rich Stadtmiller

Gents in full leather at the SF Eagle

SAT 14 Mr. S.F. Eagle Leather Contest @ The Eagle

Join Master Morris for a hot holiday party. 7:30 – 9:30pm. 2051 Market St. www.sfring.org

Join the fun and find out who will become the new Mr. SF Eagle 2013 and will go on to compete in the Mr. SF Leather contest next year. 3-6pm. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com

THU 12

Boot Lickin’ @ The Powerhouse

Underwear Night @ The Powerhouse

Lick those boots, or just admire the men wearing them. 10pm-Close. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Wet undies contest, drink specials. 1347 Folsom St. 10pm. www.powerhouse-sf.com

FRI 13 Lick It @ The Powerhouse Lance Holman hosts this sexy monthly fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Emergency Fund; gogo guys, raffles, and bootblacks. $5 cover. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Truck Wash @ Truck Live shower boys, drink specials. No cover. 10pm-2am. 1900 Folsom St. www.trucksf.com

Sadistic Saturdays @ The SF Eagle Presented by Michael Brandon. This is the place to be for hot demos, cold drinks, and horny men. Boot Black is on duty as are hot go-go boys who like to get frisky. 10pm – 1am. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com

SUN 15 Truck Bust Sundays @ Truck Bar Warm bar, hot men, cold beer. Let’s get cozy. $1 Beer Bust. 4-8pm. 1900 Folsom. www.trucksf.com

MON 16 Dirty Dicks @ The Powerhouse Don’t worry, not everyone’s dick is dirty. Find out for yourself. $3 well drinks. 4pm. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Trivia Night @ Truck Casey Ley hosts the fun night, with prizes and ridiculous questions. No cover. 8-10pm. 1900 Folsom St. www.trucksf.

WED 18 com

Bare Bear @ The Water Garden Bare Bear: A night at the baths with the bears and those who love them. 6-10pm. 1010 The Alameda, San Jose. www.thewatergarden.com.

Underwear Buddies @ Blow Buddies Get out your tighty whities or whatever you wear under there. Just be ready to lose it forever in a night of nasty fun. 8pmMidnight. 933 Harrison St. Membership fees apply. www.blowbuddies.com

THU 19 Underwear Night @ The Powerhouse Wet undies contest, drink specials. 10pm. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

FRI 20 Fetish Fridays @ The Phoenix, Fresno Michael Brandon presents the party that just keeps getting better! The desert gets a little bit freakier! They’re adding Scout TheBootblack, plus jello shots, drink specials, go-go studs, demos and more. 10pm-1am. 4538 E. Belmont Ave., Fresno. www.facebook.com/events

SAT 21 BLUF Invasion! @ The SF Eagle Bar meet for all gear men, sponsored by BLUF men of San Francisco. Just follow the smell of leather to the back patio. 9pm1am. www.bluf.com

Beatpig @ The Powerhouse Rich Stadtmiller

Lovely leather ladies at the Eagle.

Juanita More! spins saucy grooves and dudes cruise at the eclectic music, drag and kink night; each 3rd Saturday. Oink! 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com t

Karrnal >>

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 9

Naked Sword

Shawn Wolfe topping Hunter Page in Naked Sword’s Frat House Cream.

Wham, bam. Thank you, Pam. by John F. Karr

aked Sword director mr. Pam runs a jubilating set (the only thing that seems lacking in her Behind the Scenes bonuses are party hats) and I think that spirit shows in her two recent features, Undiscovered and Frat House Cream. Every scene in Undiscovered is sexy and enjoyable, and one is sorta overwhelming—to my taste, at any rate. The sexo would like you to think it’s a reality show, following eight new guys as they try to break into porn. Well, consider them already broken. It’s fun to make believe they’re debuting, and it’s true several don’t have many mainstream credits. But all of them have been knocking around the web; several are full time knockers. If their faces seem fresh here, credit that to mr. Pam. Even if her guys aren’t newbies in the business, they behave like they are. They’re primed to go, all jazzed up to jiz. Among other fresh elements of Undiscovered is the filming location, a typical San Francisco apartment with a sorta Victorian feel. It looks lived in, comfortable. Out the window, kitty-corner across the street, you glimpse the neon sign of the Twin Peaks bar,

making Undiscovered feel like it’s just your everyday neighborhood fuckathon. I like the verité style of filming, the mobile (but not nausea-inducing too mobile) camera work, and the look of the film’s image. It’s crisp, like a documentary, but softer than reality. Wolfie Blue’s blue eyes twinkle with horny expectation. When he sees Tyler Alexander (whose plush eyebrows cradle seductive dark eyes), he exclaims, “He’s really hot, holy crap!” And his eyes nearly cross as he slides his cock into Tyler’s ass, saying, “Oh, you’re tight! A guy couldn’t last long with you!” And you know he’s not reciting script, or making porn talk. It’s a flipfuck for these guys; after Tyler fucks the cum outta Wolfie, he asks to be fucked with a toy, and though the dildoing lasts less than two minutes, it’s a big toy, it gets Tyler extra hard and he shoots sharp as Wolfie pumps the tool in deep. Sandy-haired Justin Chase has a rough-hewn yet wholesome look. His fair coloring contrasts nicely with almond-skinned, foxy-eyed Ethan Slade. They also flip fuck, adding to it a whopping face full of cum for Justin, with some savory morsels dropping onto his tongue. And then, a lovely, super horny

Naked Sword

Ray Han, Hunter Page and Connor Maguire tangle in Naked Sword’s Frat House Cream.

round of sensational lovemaking, for boyfriends of a year, Trevor Laster and Jackson Taylor. These guys have been much employed web pros; Taylor, with an unquenchably hungry asshole, did some barebacking, and has repented. They say they’ll now only film together. Damn—I did so want to get my name on Trevor’s dance card. He’s got stardom written all over him—his handsomeness is framed by Paul Newman blue eyes above and the firm cast of his jaw below. There’s openness on his face, hardness on his body, and major yum all over his cock. This movie shows him in a prime of young studliness. Twenty-two year old Jackson is a tiny kewpie doll with big panda eyes, and a vortex of an asshole. Man, Trevor looooves that hole, and gives it a master class in rimming. The guys are kissing deeply as Jackson sidles his asshole down onto Trevor’s cock, and they keep kissing as Jackson rides like a carousel horse on a very stiff pole, up and down, up and down. He doesn’t cum much, although strongly, and Trevor spurts his soul sauce right in Jackson’s mouth. And then they share spermy kisses. On to Frat House Cream. As sexo genres go, the frat house thing is usually the most false, the most stupid. Sure enough, this one launches with Hunter Page’s reddened butt being paddled while he implores, “Guys, stop, I gotta study.” And then the movie defies my expectation. The script Michael Stabile and Tim Valenti have written is the sexo rarity that actually deserves the credit, “Screenplay by....” And mr. Pam gets credit for not only establishing an effectively scary atmosphere, but sustaining it. The plot gets out of the way quickly enough for swell couplings. Johnny Torque plows a never prettier Marco Russo, and Connor Maguire and Ray Han share Hunter Page in a threeway. There’s a swell scene in which Doug Acre slams his acre of cock into Lucas Knight. Best is the finale, in which a whiff of incest is added when Shawn Wolfe brutalizes his stepbrother, Hunter Page. Shawn—who’s got just about the best beard in porn—gets all fucking sweaty before he gets all jizzy. After Hunter shoots on his torso, Shawn laps it up and lets it drip from his lips into Hunter’s. And for a parting shot, he plasters Hunter’s face with cum, and slithers out the door, with a jaunty, “See ya around, li’ll bro.”t www.NakedSword.com

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10 • BAY AREA REPORTER • December 5-11, 2013

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Read more online at www.ebar.com

December 5-11, 2013 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 11

Shooting Stars photos by Steven Underhill

The Ducal Investure, held last week at the Kink.com Armory, brought out new and veteran royalty in a costumed gala affair.

The Midnight Sun’s renovation are now complete, including a spacious windowed front lounge.

Badlands continues its popular weekend festivities.

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For more photos, and to arrange your own wedding, headshot or portrait photos,

call (415) 370-7152 or visit www.StevenUnderhill.com

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8/28/13 1:35 PM