San Francisco Bay Times - November 24, 2016

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November 24-December 1, 2016 | www.sfbaytimes.com

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San Francisco’s Official Response to the Election of Trump

Unity Gathering San Francisco City Hall Monday, November 9

PHOTO BY DAVID EARL

See story page 5

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors recently passed a resolution, introduced by Board President London Breed, in response to the election of Donald Trump.

The resolution reads as follows:

WHEREAS, On November 8, 2016, Donald Trump was elected to become the 45th President of the United States; now, therefore, be it

FURTHER RESOLVED, That we still believe in this nation’s founding principle of religious freedom. We do not ban people for their faith. And the only lists we keep are on invitations to come pray together; and, be it

RESOLVED, That no matter the threats made by President-elect Trump, San Francisco will remain a Sanctuary City. We will not turn our back on the men and women from other countries who help make this city great, and who represent over one third of our population. This is the Golden Gate—we build bridges, not walls; and, be it

FURTHER RESOLVED, That Black Lives Matter in San Francisco, even if they may not in the White House. And guided by President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, we will continue reforming our police department and rebuilding trust between police and communities of color so all citizens feel safe in their neighborhoods; and, be it

FURTHER RESOLVED, That we will never back down on women’s rights, whether in healthcare, the workplace, or any other area threatened by a man who treats women as obstacles to be demeaned or objects to be assaulted. And just as important, we will ensure our young girls grow up with role models who show them they can be or do anything; and, be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That there will be no conversion therapy, no withdrawal of rights in San Francisco. We began hosting gay weddings twelve years ago, and we are not stopping now. And to all the LGBTQ people all over the country who feel scared, bullied, or alone: You matter. You are seen; you are loved; and San Francisco will never stop fighting for you; and, be it

FURTHER RESOLVED, That climate change is not a hoax, or a plot by the Chinese.

In this city, surrounded by water on three sides, science matters. And we will continue our work on CleanPower, Zero Waste, and everything else we are doing to protect future generations; and, be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That we have been providing universal health care in this city for nearly a decade, and if the new administration follows through on its callous promise to revoke health insurance from 20 million people, San Franciscans will be protected; and, be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That we are the birthplace of the United Nations, a city made stronger by the thousands of international

visitors we welcome every day. We will remain committed to internationalism and to our friends and allies around the world—whether the administration in Washington is or not; and, be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That San Francisco will remain a Transit First city and will continue building Muni and BART systems we can all rely upon, whether this administration follows through on its platform to eliminate federal transit funding or not; and, be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That California is the sixth largest economy in the world. The Bay Area is the innovation capital of the country. We will not be bullied by threats to revoke our federal funding, nor will we sacrifice our values or members of our community for your dollar; and, be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That we condemn all hate crimes and hate speech perpetrated in this election’s wake. That although the United States will soon have a President who has demonstrated a lack of respect for the values we hold in the highest regard in San Francisco, it cannot change who we are, and it will never change our values. We argue, we campaign, we debate vigorously within San Francisco, but on these points we are 100 percent united. We will fight discrimination and recklessness in all its forms. We are one City. And we will move forward together.

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We’ll Never Give Up

6/26 and Beyond John Lewis & Stuart Gaffney Just five months ago we joined thousands of other people at the corner of Castro and Market to come together in the face of the massacre of 49 members of LGBT community at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando.

We described it in the San Francisco Bay Times as “our worst nightmare as LGBTIQ people.” Two weeks ago we returned to that famous street corner, as did thousands of others, in shock, disbelief, and sadness in response to another nightmare: the results of the November 8, 2016, election.

At the November 9 gathering we read from one of the Dalai Lama’s poems, whose refrain implores: “Never give up. No matter what is going on around you. Never give up.” We had read the same poem nearly eight years ago to the day at yet another Castro rally the night after Prop 8 passed.

In the midst of our anger and dismay at the passage of Prop 8 in 2008, we also began contemplating the way forward, asking ourselves the counterintuitive question: Despite the horrific loss, what was the

best thing that happened on Election Day? Our answer: Over 6.4 million Californians had voted on our side in favor of marriage equality, 48 percent of the electorate and the most people who had ever voted in favor of LGBT rights on any state ballot measure. And Barack Obama, who supported LGBT rights (although not full marriage equality) became the first African American President. Prop 8’s passage ended up unleashing a passion for marriage and full LGBT equality that was unanticipated and unlike anything seen before. It raised the visibility of LGBT people and their families to a new level. President Obama became the first President ever to embrace the freedom to marry and did countless things to advance LGBT rights. Just six and a half years after Prop 8 passed, nationwide marriage equality became the law of the land.

We’ve asked ourselves the same question this year: What’s the best thing that happened on Election Day? We confess that we’ve struggled to f ind an answer. We, like millions of Americans, have many fears about what might lie ahead and well-founded reasons for concern. Yet we truly don’t know what the future will bring. We are struck by how many of our friends and acquaintances from many different walks of life feel threatened personally by the results of election, and by how many of us are going through versions of the grieving process. We also take note that 62 million Americans and counting voted for the presidential candidate who supported full LGBTIQ equality—and she actually won the popular vote. Indeed, for the second time in the last four elections,

the candidate who won the most votes will not become President.

Who knows what the results of this election and what follows will unleash in these 62 million Americans, especially those most directly affected? Who knows what might emerge?

Our thoughts often turn to Gavin Grimm, the Virginia transgender teen who, of all things, has the task of convincing five members of the United States Supreme Court in the coming months that he should be able to use his school’s bathrooms just as all of his classmates can. No one knows how actions the new administration might take could affect the posture of the case. But one thing we do know is that Gavin is not giving up. Despite the absurdity that the highest court in the land has chosen to decide how Gavin can go to the bathroom, the case gives our community a new opportunity to educate the Court and the nation about the real lives and struggles of transgender people.

If Gavin’s not giving up, we’re not giving up. We’ll never give up on ourselves, our community, our resilience, our power and the future.

We’ll never give up on the intention of our community to make the world a better place. We’ll never give up on hope.

John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney, together for over three decades, were plaintiffs in the California case for equal marriage rights decided by the California Supreme Court in 2008. Their leadership in the nationwide grassroots organization Marriage Equality USA contributed in 2015 to making same-sex marriage legal nationwide.

Election Day Hope Fades to Protest

Photos by Rink

Optimism faded rapidly to dismay on Election Night 2016 as LGBT community members and allies found their hopes dashed in Donald Trump’s surprise win. Protest rallies and marches declaring “Trump Is Not My President” erupted in cities throughout the U.S. San Francisco Bay Times photographer Rink was on hand to capture images of anger, sorrow and dismay as the reality of Trump’s win sets in.

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In the News Compiled by Dennis McMillan San Francisco DA Launches Hotline Amid Post-Election Hate Crimes Following the election of Donald Trump, there has been an uptick in hate crimes in the Bay Area and nationwide. District Attorney George Gascon has launched a hotline for residents to report such crimes. Latinos, Muslims, AfricanAmericans and gays are often the targets of these hateful acts and harassment nationwide, and the Bay Area is not immune. U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch reports a spike in hate crimes since Trump’s ascendancy to the highest office in the land. Gascon wants residents to know about the hotline, which can be reached at 415-551-9595. He said such crime is tremendously underreported. Police commander Greg McEachern also issued a warning to hate mongers: “Bigotry and hatred and acts that we’ve seen throughout this country this year, and most recently, will not be tolerated here in San Francisco. nbcnews.com Wage Gap: Bisexual Employees Make Less Than Their Straight Coworkers Most people are familiar with the gender wage gap, the fact that women make about 20 percent less than men on average. But, as Bloomberg reports, there’s a wage gap for bisexuals, too. According to a new study from the American Sociological Review, which combined results from two nationally representative samples, bisexual women make 7 to 28 percent less than straight women, and bisexual men earn 11 to 19 percent less than their heterosexual colleagues. There’s a gay pay gap as well, but some of the same factors that contribute to the gender pay gap seem to come into play with gay workers, including type of work, children, and marital status. lgbtqnation.com

Transgender Awareness Week and Transgender Day of Remembrance Commemorated A coalition of local nonprofit partners and transgender health and rights groups commemorated Trans Awareness week (November 14– 20) and hosted the 18th annual Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) on Sunday, November 20, at API Wellness Center. During Trans Awareness, communities around the globe gather to raise visibility and work to end the violence against trans people. TDoR is a solemn tribute to those transgender individuals who have lost their lives to transphobia, racism, hatred and prejudice. The day serves a purpose to raise awareness of the threat of abuse and violence faced on the transgender community, as well as their families, friends and allies. Despite recent community visibility and increased awareness of transgender issues in the media, in 2016 over 249 trans people were murdered. In the United States, 25 people were killed—making it the deadliest year in history. The level of violence targeting transgender and gender nonconforming people has become a national crisis, with 90 percent of the violence impacting transgender women of color. sfcenter.org Latest Results in State Senate Race Show Wiener Heading to Sacramento Supervisor Scott Wiener says that on Monday, December 5, he will be sworn in as the District 11 State Senator in Sacramento, replacing outgoing Democrat Mark Leno. By doing so, Wiener will resign from the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. As for the changing political tide in Washington D.C., Wiener plans to do everything he can to keep California pointing forward.

“The Trump victory makes it more important than ever for California to play a strong progressive role

to counterbalance the disaster emanating from Washington,” he said. “I look forward to working to keep California on a strong progressive track.” Given Prop D’s failure to get a majority of “yes” votes in the San Francisco election, Mayor Ed Lee maintains his power to appoint District 8’s next supervisor. The selected individual will serve out the remainder of Wiener’s term on the board until the next city-wide election in 2018. hoodline.com Developers Say Secret Tunnels Under San Francisco Gay Bars Are a Myth Property under development in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District has become the subject of heated debate between LGBT historians and developers. Community activists are pushing for a four-block region in the Tenderloin to be recognized as a historic district. The neighborhood was home to Compton’s Cafeteria, where transgender patrons fought back against police harassment three years before the historic Stonewall riots.

LGBT historians and activists are claiming that the space beneath the 950 Market development—destined to become market rate housing and hotel rooms—once served as a network of secret tunnels that allowed LGBT people to escape police raids.

While developers say the tunnels are a myth, historians believe the matter still warrants further investigation by an LGBT historian to spend time assessing all of the buildings, including the below ground space for what may have been boarded up or changed in the last 70 years. Unless and until that happens, the alleged gay bar tunnels will remain a mystery. lgbtqnation.com Report Finds LGBTQ People Are Extremely Underrepresented in SpanishLanguage Television GLAAD released its first-ever report on Spanish-language television in the United States, and the results are bleak. The report, called Nearly Invisible, finds that LGBTQ people are extremely underrepresented

in Spanish-language television. And when Latinx people are represented, the portrayals often fall victim to alltoo-familiar tropes and stereotypes.

“The events of the past couple of weeks have left many feeling vulnerable and uncertain. And sadly, much of the hateful rhetoric is targeted at our nation’s immigrant and Latinx people—many of whom are part of the LGBTQ community,” says Monica Trasandes, GLAAD Director of Programs, Spanish-Language and Latinx Media. “GLAAD is committed to fighting for representation in Spanish-language media, and to accelerating acceptance for LGBTQ people here in the United States and around the world.” glaad.org Oakland Triple Murder Suspect Was Admired Educator, Transgender Activist Dana Rivers is a decorated career educator and an early hero for transgender equality; but she is also, police believe, a murderer—the suspected perpetrator of the horrific slaying of three Oakland family members. In 1999, she fought a Sacramento area school district for the right to be herself and was fired for sharing her transition from David Warfield to Dana Rivers with her high school students. Thrust into the national spotlight at a time LGBT issues were not widely understood, she worked for years as an advocate for trans people. And when her notoriety faded, the Bay Area native quietly restarted her life as an educator, again working with high school students as well as inmates in the correctional system. More than a decade later, Rivers, a 61-year-old San Jose resident, now sits in an Alameda County jail, to the great dismay of her family and former students and the puzzlement of police trying to fathom a possible motive in these slayings. Rivers has been described as an acquaintance of the victims,

Assemblymember Phil Ting When we hear about Ellis Island, we immediately think about an island by New York City that was the stop-gap for immigrants coming from Europe.

Yet many in California aren’t familiar with Angel Island, the West Coast equivalent.

From 1910 to 1940, Angel Island was the site of a U.S. Immigration Station that enforced policies designed to exclude many Pacific Coast immigrants coming from 82 countries, particularly immigrants from China and Japan. After decades of not being used, the site was slated for demolition in 1970 because of its deteriorated condition. Upon the discovery of Chinese poetry carved into the walls of detention barracks, its destruction was halted and interest in preserving the historical nature of these buildings was renewed.

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While some people may feel that concentration camps and detention centers are a part of the past, others have readily proposed them as a solution to some of our country’s problems.

This should raise concerns among most Americans. With the world— and our children—watching, I am relieved that my fellow citizens voted against these exclusionary ideas.

These events show the need to learn the history of Angel Island so that we may avoid the atrocities of exclusion today.

Earlier this year, Assemblymember David Chiu (D-San Francisco) brought me a proposal from the Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation where the State of California would partner with the federal government in preserving Angel Island’s rich, but painful, history.

As Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, I was able to secure the funding needed. This year’s state budget includes $2.952 million to help complete a multi-year effort to restore and transform the former Public Service Hospital at the U.S.

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Immigration Station on Angel Island into a museum and interpretive center about immigrant exclusion.

We announced the funding last month at the Chinese Historical Society a week before their Chinese American: Exclusion/Inclusion exhibit opened. The exhibit includes examples of immigrant detention barracks, large-scale photos and images, pamphlets, newspapers, and other important historical documents from the era. It is a great way to learn more about Chinese American history ahead of the restoration of the Angel Island Immigration Station, which should be completed in 2018.

Preserving the history of Angel Island allows us to send a message that we cannot forget this painful part of our history. There is a tragic cost of exclusion. We must learn from it so that we can be a better country of immigrants united in our desire for a better life.

Let’s make sure that we’re breaking barriers, not putting up walls. Let’s make inclusion, and not exclusion, the policy we strive for. Let’s preserve history, and ensure that future generations don’t repeat the mistakes of the past.

Phil Ting represents the 19th Assembly District, which includes the Westside of San Francisco along with the communities of Broadmoor, Colma and Daly City.

Orlando to Buy Pulse Nightclub, Turn It into Memorial The city of Orlando has reached a deal to buy the Pulse nightclub for $2.25 million, and plans to eventually transform the site of the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history into a memorial. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer told the Orlando Sentinel that the city won’t rush to change the club, once a mainstay in the gay community that has become a gathering place for visiting and local mourners alike. “There are lots of people that are making a visit to the site part of their trip, part of their experience of Orlando, so I think 12 to 18 months of leaving it as-is would be appropriate,” Dyer said. In the meantime, the city plans to solicit ideas from the community for what form the lasting memorial should take. Dyer said the city hasn’t ruled out leaving part of the club intact permanently, such as the roadside sign featuring its nowiconic logo. The city’s ultimate goal, he said, will be to “create something to honor the memory of the victims that are deceased [and] those that were injured, and a testament to the resilience of our community.” orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando

Kaplan Spearheads Public Banking

Lessons from Angel Island Immigrant stories are the stories of America, making Angel Island preservation especially important. At a time when we still have candidates from one major political party seeking to round up and exclude immigrants based on ethnicity or religion, the lessons from Angel Island’s history cannot be lost.

married couple Patricia Wright, 57, and Charlotte Reed, 56, and their 19-year-old son, Toto “Benny” Diambu-Wright. Like Rivers’ own family, their loved ones are mystified by the turn of events. eastbaytimes.com

Out of the Closet and into City Hall Oakland City Councilmember At-Large, Rebecca Kaplan Imagine a bank that invests in the local economy and is mandated to serve the public interest. In Oakland, we have begun the process to establish a public bank that would achieve such policy objectives, including stimulating economic development, spurring job creation, reducing municipal debt service, and expanding the tax base, through direct, long-term local lending at below-market rates.

Last Tuesday the members of the Finance Committee unanimously approved my resolution directing the administration to prepare an informational report regarding a feasibility study for establishing a public bank for the City of Oakland, and possibly for the larger region.

A public bank would allow the City of Oakland to lessen its reliance on big banks, and keep our community economically sound in a time where there is much uncertainty surrounding the federal government.

For guidance, we look to the Bank of North Dakota, the nation’s first and only public bank. During the recent “Great Recession,” the State of North Dakota escaped the credit crisis, maintained budget surpluses with zero public debt, and had the lowest credit card defaults, foreclosure rates and unemployment rates in the nation, due in large part to the Bank of North Dakota’s willingness to provide loans to keep the state economy functioning while credit had been frozen elsewhere. In addition, over the last two decades, the Bank of North Dakota’s total assets have increased seven-fold and returned $385 million to the state’s General Fund.

A public bank would be of special importance to California’s burgeoning cannabis industry, which is primarily cash-based and often a target for robberies. The relationship would be mutually beneficial, as cannabis businesses could be a significant source of deposits for such a bank.

As we move forward in the wake of the national election, it is important that we celebrate our local victories and continue to work for socio-economic justice. Now is the time for a public bank, and I am proud to be spearheading the process here in Oakland.

Oakland City Councilmember At-Large Rebecca Kaplan was elected in 2008 and was re-elected in 2012, and again in 2016. She is working for safe neighborhoods, for local jobs and for a fresh start for Oakland.

Councilmember Kaplan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the Massachusetts Institute of Technolog y, obtained a master’s degree from Tufts University and a Juris Doctor from Stanford Law School.

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Give No One Cause to Fear You taliation, resentments, grudges, and feuds.

Roland Schembari and Bill Hartman, Co-Founders Randy Alfred, Founding News Editor 1978

That’s why I’ve been giving a lot of thought to a traditional Buddhist ethical maxim: “Give no one cause to fear you.” It’s such a simple and beautiful idea, and it’s so diametrically opposed to what most of us have learned.

Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011

2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-601-2113 525 Bellevue Avenue Oakland CA 94610 E-mail: editor@sfbaytimes.com www.sfbaytimes.com

The Bay Times was the first newspaper in California, and among the first in the world, to be jointly and equally produced by lesbians and gay men.

We honor our history and the paper’s ability to build and strengthen unity in our community.

The Bay Times is proud to be the only 100% LGBT funded and owned newspaper for the LGBT community in San Francisco.

Dr. Betty L. Sullivan Jennifer L. Viegas Co-Publishers & Co-Editors

Abby Zimberg Beth Greene

Design & Production

Kate Laws Business Manager Blake Dillon Calendar Editor

Kit Kennedy

Poet-In-Residence

J.H. Herren Technology Director Jennifer Mullen Web Coordinator

Mario Ordonez Juan Ordonez

Examined Life Tom Moon, MFT We humans are, by and large, a wary, anxious and suspicious species. Evolutionary pressures made that inevitable. Our ancestors who underestimated the threats from predators and other humans didn’t survive to pass on their genes. We’re the descendants of the more fearful ones who kept a vigilant eye on potential dangers.

As a result, our brains are constantly scanning for dangers and threats in the environment, especially social threats such as rejection or disrespect.

All we have to see is a frown or a hint of disapproval and our alarm systems light up. And when we trigger threat in each other it’s all too easy for us to begin bouncing off one another, mutually engendering defensiveness, re-

Photographers Rink, Phyllis Costa, Jane Higgins Paul Margolis, Chloe Jackman, Bill Wilson, Jo-Lynn Otto, Sandy Morris, Abby Zimberg

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Lambda Legal advises that members of our community should consider taking the following steps now, before President-elect Trump is in office.

If you are transgender and your identity documents don’t reflect who you are, it is a good idea to update your documents—including any state-issued IDs, passport and Social Security record—before the new administration takes office. For more information, see: http://www.lambdalegal.org/know-your-rights/article/ trans-identity-documents

If you are a same-sex couple raising children, it’s important that both parents have secu re leg a l t ies to your children. If you have not done a second-parent adoption or a joint adoption, that may be an important step to take now if it’s possible in your state. A formal adoption judgment from a court can give important security—even if both parents’ names are already on each child’s birth certif icate—because court judgments must be respected state-to-state and by the federal government. If you are not married, and if your state does not permit a formal adoption judgment for unmarried parents, we suggest you seek a parentage order in states

Trump Voodoo Dolls

USA Today reports that sales of voodoo dolls in the image of Donald Trump have soared since the election. A company located in the Northwest says they produced and sold more than 100 in one day just after the November 8 election results were known. The dolls are sold as a joke or for political comedic relief. Hillary Clinton dolls are also available. Check out what’s offered at donaldtrumpvoodoo.com and artworkofprophecy.com

National Advertising: Contact Bay Times / San Francisco.

Represented by Rivendell Media: 908-232-2021 Circulation is verified by an independent agency Reprints by permission only.

CALENDAR Event listings for consideration to be included in the Bay Times online or print Calendar section should be sent by e-mail to: calendar@sfbaytimes.com. © 2016 Bay Times Media Company Co-owned by Betty L. Sullivan & Jennifer L. Viegas

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When I was older, I learned in the academic world and in the work world more subtle ways of warding off threats and establishing dominance—self-righteousness, irritation, edginess and impatience; caustic, sarcastic or withering tones; condescension, ridicule, humiliation, and argumentativeness; sighs and eye rolls; prosecutorial questions, high-handedness, put-downs, and on and on.

No one really wants to live like this, even though to one degree or another most of us think we have to.

But do we really need to be armed to the teeth (metaphorically or literally) in order to be safe? Maybe there are real advantages if the people around us feel calmer, more relaxed, safer, and more at peace with us. Maybe giving “the gift of fearlessness” to others is also a gift to ourselves.

How do we do it? Here are some suggestions:

tion with a tense body, you signal to others that trouble might be on the way, and they immediately begin to tense up themselves. Remember also to slow down. For our ancestors, sudden events were often the beginning of a deadly attack. That’s why talking fast, firing instructions or questions, and sudden movements can rattle and alarm others.

Avoid inf lammatory language and understand that even a little anger goes a long way. Just a hint of it makes others feel threatened. Notice, for instance, how a crowd can suddenly become quiet if everyone hears an angry voice. Understand that your tone of voice is as important as the content of your speech. Finally, make sure that you’re trustworthy yourself, so that others won’t fear that you’ll let them down.

Begin by being honest with yourself about your intentions. In difficult conversations is your intention to be right, show others how they’re wrong, or to punish? Commit to positive goals, such as finding out what really happened in a situation, being empathic, strengthening the relationship, or solving a practical problem.

The more you give the gift of fearlessness to others, the more you’ll enjoy what the Buddhists call “the bliss of blamelessness,” because you’ll know that you’ve done what you can to reduce fear in others. You’ll also notice that you begin to feel safer too, because when those around you feel safe, they’re less likely to give you cause to fear them.

Remember to rela x frequent ly, breathe deeply, stretch, and let go.

When you approach any interac-

Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. For more information, please visit his website http://tommoon.net/

What LGBTQ People Should Do Before Trump Becomes President

Distribution

CONTRIBUTORS Writers Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Kirsten Kruse, Kate Kendell, Alex Randolph, Heidi Beeler, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Tim Seelig, Cinder Ernst, John Chen Rafael Mandelman, Kit Kennedy, Phil Ting, Rebecca Kaplan, Leslie Katz, Philip Ruth, Bill Lipsky, Karen Williams, Donna Sachet, Gary Virginia, Zoe Dunning, Marcy Adelman, Stuart Gaffney & John Lewis Brandon Miller, Jamie Leno Zimron Thom Watson, Michele Karlsberg Lyndsey Schlax, Elisa Quinzi, Elizabeth River, Debra Walker, Wendy Ross, Howard Steiermann

As a boy growing up in a workingclass neighborhood, I was taught early that it was important to create fear in others. I understood that, on the street, I had to be armored. I had to posture and strut; look dangerous, even menacing; and appear ready to fight. I learned that it was essential for my social, and maybe physical, survival, to cover up the fact that I was gay, as well as to conceal my vulnerability, fear, and tenderness.

But the first response to any suggestion that we can live less defensively is usually that the idea is naïve and reckless. The world is a dangerous place. Don’t we need to know how to defend ourselves? Yes, we do need to be prepared to assert and defend our legitimate rights and to protect ourselves. Other people don’t need to fear us in order to understand that if they’re abusive, or that if they break agreements with us, there will be consequences.

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where that is possible. Other suggestions include making sure that each child’s Social Security number record lists both parents as the child’s legal parents, and obtaining a passport for each child that lists both parents as the child’s legal parents.

medical care and decision-making, and about who may visit you.

Get your life planning documents in place. Create or update your medical power of attorney or health care proxy and living will.

The hospital visitation policy put in place by the Obama administration is consistent with state laws and should remain in place under a Trump administration. No change in federal policy can undermine these documents. It is important to have these legally enforceable written documents stating your wishes about

Crisis Lines • San Francisco Suicide Prevention Crisis and Support Line: 415-7810500 • Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860

Openhouse has also shared information about free resources for those who need support at this uncertain time.

Warm Lines for Support • HIV Nightline: 415-434-2437 • Friendship Line: 415-752-3778 • Mental Health Association of SF Warm Line: 855-845-7415 For post-election FAQs, go to: http://www. lambdalegal.org/blog/post-election-faq

GLBT Fortnight in Review

By Ann Rostow Oh, Man I always have to read my previous column before I start a new one, mainly in order to avoid repetition. And thus I was obliged to reread my glib preelection column, which filled me with self-loathing. The jocular faux fear of Trump winning the election. The implied discussion of whether or not the lame duck senate might confirm Merrick Garland. The observation that Clinton’s new nominee won’t reach the Court in time to hear the transgender rights case.

Um, sorry folks. Clinton’s nominee isn’t going to reach the Court ever.

Because Clinton isn’t going to reach the White House. Because we elected Donald Trump to be President of the United States. Even now, two weeks later, I wake up in a mist of dread.

Something very bad has happened, but I’m still too sleepy to figure out what it is. Ah, yes. President-elect Donald Trump. I grasp desperately for something else to think about and try to sleep again, but it’s too late. I’ve remembered. I’m awake.

It feels callous to try and imagine the implications of a Trump presidency for the GLBT community. This is a man who campaigned on letting South Korea and Japan go nuclear and teaming up with Bashar Assad to “fight ISIS.” This is a man who mused about “renegotiating” the U.S. debt, as if it were a real estate contract rather than a series of treasury instruments denominated in the world’s reserve currency, with terms set at auction. Oh, and by the way, guess who owns most of America’s debt? Not China, but American families through their retirement accounts. Another huge chunk is owned

by American corporations.

This is a man who might register some Americans by faith. I know, we all think the federal courts would put a stop to that, but as one Trumpite pointed out, the Supreme Court itself gave the green light to Japanese internment in what is considered one of the most disgraceful opinions in the Court’s history.

Let’s go there, shall we?

First, in 1943, the justices ruled against Gordon Hirabayshi, an American citizen who refused to submit to a curfew for citizens of Japanese descent. The following year, in Koramatsu v U.S., a 6–3 majority ruled that the government had the right to put Japanese Americans into internment camps.

In 2012 President Obama awarded Gordon Hirabayshi a posthumous Medal of Freedom. And a few months before his death, Justice Scalia told law students at Santa Clara University that the past court opinion he admired most was Justice Jackson’s dissent in Korematsu. “It was nice to know,” said Scalia, “that somebody on the Court realized that it was wrong.”

“A military order, however unconstitutional, is not apt to last longer than the military emergency,” wrote Justice Robert Jackson in the dissent that Scalia appreciated so much. “But once a judicial opinion rationalizes such an order to show that it conforms to the Constitution, or rather rationalizes the Constitution to show that the Constitution sanctions such an order, the Court for all time has validated the principle of racial discrimination in criminal procedure and of transplanting American citizens.”

“The principle then lies about like a loaded weapon, ready for the hand of any authority that can bring forward a plausible claim of an urgent need.

Every repetition imbeds that princi-

ple more deeply in our law and thinking and expands it to new purposes.”

It’s never been overturned, but Korematsu is (we thought) as discredited as Plessy v Ferguson or Dred Scott v Sandford.

The notion that someone would actually pick up Jackson’s “loaded weapon” and cite this travesty as a legitimate precedent is as horrifying as anything we’ve come to expect from the Trump entourage. The approving reference came from Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, an anti-immigration hysteric who is set to meet with Trump shortly.

We could talk about the dangers of Trump all day and all night and we’d still find ourselves like Ilsa and Rick, recognizing that our GLBT problems don’t amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world. And yet…this column is supposed to focus on the GLBT community, so here goes nothing.

Long Live the Justices I confess that I have not spent much time considering the impact of a Trump presidency on our community civil rights goals. Even though two weeks have passed, I have not had the heart to focus on this cowardly new world. In fact, I find that I can only think about Trump and all that he represents for short periods of time.

After that, something in me rises up and I have to dive into a book or a tall glass of somethin’ somethin’.

First, let’s take a deep breath and remember that the f ive-justice gay rights majority is still intact regardless of who Trump will chose to replace Justice Scalia. Indeed, it’s doubtful that anyone could be to Scalia’s right, although that said, our majority is getting on in years. Um, I can’t think about that too much. La la la la la (fingers in ears).

Second, while last column I was sad that a ninth justice would not be seated in time to consider the transgender rights case out of the Fourth Circuit that is scheduled for this current High Court session, this week it makes me happy. A 4–4 tie on the merits of the case (whether or not Title IX’s ban on sex discrimination in public schools implies a ban on trans discrimination) would leave our transgender rights victory at the lower court intact, although it would not create a legal precedent. But hey, it’s better than a 5–4 reversal, right? Better than a kick in the pants!

But as we’ve discussed in the past, this transgender case may be about something completely different, which brings us back to the problems with President Trump.

Government agencies interpret ambiguous laws based on the philosophical, and often political, bent of those in charge. It’s no surprise that the Obama Justice Department’s Equal Employment Opportunity Commission believes that federal law should be interpreted to include sexual orientation under the (Title VII) ban on sex discrimination in the workplace.

It’s no surprise that the Obama Education Department’s Office of Civil Rights thinks Title IX means that transgender bias, like sex bias, is illegal in public schools and colleges.

Back in March, the 2–1 panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit wrote that they were obligated to follow Obama’s agency policy by ruling in favor of the transgender teen who wanted to use the boy’s facilities at his Virginia high school.

But were they really bound by law to do that? And did it matter that the agency wrote a letter to the appellate panel explaining the administration’s views? In accepting review of this case, the Supreme Court has noted that it aims to answer this question (continued on page 30) S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES NOVEM BER 24, 2016

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The Red Shellacking

Debra Walker I did my best, it wasn’t much I couldn’t feel, so I tried to touch I told the truth, I didn’t come to fool you And even though it all went wrong, I’ll stand beside the lord of song With nothing on my lips but Hallelujah -Leonard Cohen RIP I am still dumbfounded.

I’m not certain what the heck happened, other than our folks weren’t out in force where we needed them.

And my opinion is that the loss does have a big SEXISM stamped on it.

We can spend, and will, hours debating the root cause, but my money remains on the institutional resistance to a woman president of these United States.

Oh, yes, Bernie brothers and sisters … I know you all are chanting “Bernie would have won.” God love ya; he wouldn’t have. And he didn’t win the primary, so let’s just say many of you may have sat on your butts secretly hoping for a Clinton loss. Democrats don’t win when anyone sits on their butts. I certainly get that there was a large group hanging onto the dream of what Bernie offered. Hopefully Bernie Sanders will work alongside Elizabeth Warren, Barbara Lee, Tim Ryan, Nancy Pelosi and a re-energized DNC under the leadership of Keith Ellison and Howard Dean to review this election and make adjustments necessary to start retaking our country.

It is pretty clear to everyone that white, working class, rural America is disgusted with party politics. In fact, many are. Trump’s election was a repudiation of both the Republican and Democratic Parties. No third party will ever come forward to “save the day.” There is not one viable single

Photos courtesy of Debra Walker

person who is armed to do that. The results of this election point only to the need for an ongoing national 50+ state effort. (The+ means our territories and Democrats abroad.) We also must form geographic partnerships that will bring the states closer together in identifying issues and finding solutions. The solutions we offer for a path forward for America must resonate jointly with northern Wisconsin and San Francisco, and everywhere in between. We can’t dictate from the coasts and expect that the rest of the country will fall in line.

I have been saying this often during this campaign, that red states are red because you and I left them. I came from Nebraska. Most of my friends have come from red states. When we leave, the blue comes with us. I am not suggesting that we all move back to where we came from, but we should be visiting more often and staying awhile. We need to restore the empathy for our fellow Americans and feel their pain.

When a coal miner loses a job, it hurts.

When a farmer’s crops are flooded in a state with a governor who doesn’t believe in climate change and refuses to take precautions, we need to feel that pain. We are all under the same umbrella, folks.

In spite of these major losses across our country, there are some bright spots that should give us some hope.

This election provided a rallying cry for women everywhere, and I want to focus on some victories because of this. It is past time for electing women to the highest leadership positions, and our San Francisco Democratic Party/HRC efforts did help get victories in a few races across the country.

Kamala Harris Kamala has been elected to serve as a senator from our great State of California. She is filling some big shoes, Barbara Boxer’s, and is going to have to get moving fast with the republican takeover of Washington. There is so much at stake for us locally. Kamala Harris has shown strong leadership as our local DA, our state’s Attorney General, and already put herself on the front lines of the Trump battles. California needs her progressive views and battle-worn experience in standing alongside Dianne Feinstein to challenge each and every move this new administration tries. She is a smart fighter. She is aiming at the White House in more ways than one.

Look to her to provide the leadership forward.

Tammy Duckworth One of the huge victories is the defeat of Mark Kirk by Tammy Duckworth in Illinois. Duckworth has served in the House for Illinois. Her history of service in the Veterans Administration, and her work and sacrifice for our country give her a much-needed perspective to solve issues involving our nation’s security and reputation as a world power, and taking care of our veterans. She knows the military; she served and sacrificed. She will be a strong advocate for veterans and for the disabled. She represents a step forward in bringing together the Midwest, East and West Coasts to formulate real solutions for our party and our country.

Nevada Rocks!

In Nevada—where I am personally very proud of having led two months’worth of bus trips and concluding the election there last week—we had victories up and down the ticket: Clinton, Catherine Cortez Masto for Harry Reid’s vacated Senate seat, and two formerly GOP House seats. Democrats also picked up control of both chambers of the legislature. Just two years earlier, republicans had won all six constitutional offices, three House seats and both legislative chambers. The work of the Nevada unions alongside our California contingents throughout the state made these victories possible. (I want to note here that our own past Supervisor, Chris Daly, led the effort for the teachers’ union in that state.)

Two strong, newly-elected leaders from Nevada: Catherine Cortez Masto Even a gazillion dollars’-worth of Koch brother attacks couldn’t keep this good woman down. As previously mentioned, Cortez Masto emerged as the big Senate winner in Nevada,

Hillary for America’s campaign call center based in San Francisco

handily defeating “Trump supporter/non-supporter/ supporter” Joe Heck. She stood strong against the attacks, and had an army of campaign volunteers all over the state stumping for her; it paid off. She will stand strong alongside Kamala Harris. Both are brilliant Senators challenging the Trumpishness in Washington. Both have the smarts to identify solutions to pressing problems and to lead.

Jacky Rosen Joining Cortez-Masto in Washington from Nevada, but in the other Chamber, is representative Jacky Rosen in District 3. I had the pleasure of campaigning with her on Election Day and you could feel the victory around her. She is confident, smart and prepared. She can take on the republicans and get us ready for mid-term victories while helping to restore some sanity in advance of 2020. She brings a commonsense presence and joins her Nevada colleague in the House, re-elected Dina Titus in District 1.

San Francisco In California, we elect women. In San Francisco, maybe for the f irst time ever, the majority of the Board of Supervisors are women, and five of them are women of color. We now have women supervisors in District 1, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10. To date we have Katy Tang, London Breed, Jane Kim, Sandra Fewer, Hillary Ronen and Malia Cohen—amazing women all. There is also a too-close-tocall race (at press-time) with Kimberly Alvarenga being a potential 7th woman on the board. Unprecedented! We should be especially

proud that there are so many women representing our districts and helping to guide the path of San Francisco, as well as California, through these perilous times.

Let’s now turn the page, not forgetting this drumming we took, but to start looking at how we must move forward. It isn’t Hillary Clinton; it is us. We need to take our open-minded, big-hearted message to the heartland. And we need to listen. We need to truly embrace equality in all of its forms and to make our party feel like a big tent again.

“My friends, let us have faith in each other. Let us not grow weary. Let us not lose heart. For there are more seasons to come and there is more work to do.” - Hillary Rodham Clinton, November 9, 2016 Debra Walker is a Commissioner for the City and County of San Francisco Building Inspection Commission. A past president of the Commission, the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club and the San Francisco Arts Democratic Club, Walker is also an internationally recognized painter and printmaker. For more information: http:// www.debrawalker.com/

An Open Letter to Donald J. Trump

Jamie Leno Zimron (Editor’s Note: San Francisco Bay Times contributor and former columnist Jamie Leno Zimron penned this shortly after Election Day.) You have succeeded on a mission seemingly impossible to become President-elect. You have definitely proven how powerful you are. And that you can f ire up millions of people and get them to follow you, no matter what.

So now here is your next, far bigger challenge: Can you win over not just a portion of the American people? Can you win over the hearts, minds and support of your currently dread-filled detractors? You who loves defying the

conventional, accomplishing the impossible, and seizing every opportunity to show how great you are?

2. Ensure diversity and a healthy mix of intellectually-vetted views and legal competency on the Supreme Court.

You, Mr. Trump, really do now have the greatest opportunity of any person on the planet. You really could destroy or save our democracy and our world. You actually do have that within your power.

3. Embrace the First Amendment above all else. It’s placed first in our Constitution for a ‘yuge’ reason! Free speech, a free press, and the people’s right to protest to prevent tyranny are the essential foundation and core of our democracy and way of life.

You could actually make America not just great, or again, but greater than we have ever been before! And it is imperative that you make America ...

America: land and leader of the free and the brave.

I dare you to (pardon the expression) have some real balls and actually defy convention by, in fact, doing things very differently. How? Here are 6 steps you can take to get off to a start that would blow all of our minds, far more than your unprecedented rise to the presidency has: 1. Pick a cabinet that is a mix of colors, political parties, sexualities, religions and income levels. Raise up genuinely qualified people who have been on the outside, and move out any trace of influence-peddling, divisive insiders.

4. Go ahead and replace Obamacare—with single-payer health insurance that takes care of every single woman, man and child here, rather than the profits of insurance companies.

5. Kick out your cronies. Disavow the ultra-partisan alt-right, evangelicals, corporate influence-peddlers, KKK, and all those who are mixing religion, money and oppressive ideologies with politics to the very dangerous detriment of our democracy and people.

6. Be sure that you fill the thousands of new government jobs with over 50% women, and an ethnic and class mix that is representative of our country’s population.

We have seen The Donald! He loves making everyone else play his way.

He loves to be revered. He says he’s the greatest, and believes he is.

Latinos love you, gay people love you … well, make it truly so!

But so far, Mr. Donald, you’re just falling into ordinary, archaic cronyism and nepotism. You’re not your own man, not by a longshot. You’ve arrived in Washington and are playing big-money and party politics, as usual. You’re being handled by, rather than handling, a cadre of pay-back right-wing and family loyalists. You are letting yourself be led by longtime lobbyists, your own clique of far-right in-fighting insiders, and the likes of Bannon, Giuliani, Gingrich, Pence, Putin. There is nothing new, inclusive or even decent in any of it. And it’s bound to fail.

I dare you, because right now, you know a lot of people are hating, not loving, you. You could keep turning us all around, if you choose the light and right, rather than divisive dark directions.

You and all of us will be gigantic losers, not winners. We already know it, and need you to wake up, because we all want to be winners with you, and not crash in a deadly zero-sum game.

Please, dear Donald, let’s see some genuine greatness! Just as you have so effectively heard the voices and pain of white working-class people, now hear us all! Protect and promote the rights and well-being of all of us! You say women love you, blacks love you,

For the sake of all our children and every generation to come, here are 4 of the greatest and most original, defiant things you could possibly do as President of the United States: • Stand up for all of us, not just some of us.

• Stand up for humanity.

• Stand up for democracy.

• Stand up for the earth.

You love being special and having huge power. Well, you are, and you do. Now please: We would all love nothing more than to see you do the most outrageous thing of all: use the power well.

Jamie Leno Zimron is an LPGA Pro, Aikido 5th Degree Black Belt, and Corporate Speaker-Trainer. Please check out her website: http://www.thekiaiway.com/

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Not All Party and Event Rentals Are the Same

By Frederick Sullivan and Jaime Botello When you are searching for party rentals in the San Francisco Bay Area, you may come across different companies that will not offer you what you deserve, or need. Speak with friends and family for recommendations on reliable companies. You can also go online and research the rental equipment catalog of various rental companies to see if they offer what you are looking for. Consider the following factors when you are calling a rental company to provide equipment for your special event.

Available Items A good party and event rental company will have a lot of variety for you to choose from. From table linens to chair rentals and party equipment, you should have your pick of anything your party or wedding might need. Also, ask if the rental company has a showroom where you can drop in, or make an appointment, to see a preview of their inventory.

Delivery, Pickup, Setup, and Takedown Services Some rental companies do not offer setup and takedown services. In fact, some may not even offer delivery and pickup services. A lack of these services is not unheard of, but it is more common to see delivery and pickup included in your rental fees. Often you will see an extra charge for the company to set up and take down any chair rentals and tables you have. Think hard about the event you are hosting, and how helpful these extra services will be at the end of it.

there are no hidden fees, or missing services, you should be getting.

Final note: Make sure that when you are getting a quote from rental companies, you compare apples to apples if you see a deal that is too good to be true. Ninety-nine percent of the time you will get what you pay for. For example, if the company offers a $4 Chiavari chair compared to an $8 one, you might want to start asking questions as to why are they so cheap. The chairs could be chipped, not well maintained, or the company might even be using the wrong color of matching paint, so buyer beware. We recommend using this thought process on all rental items for your wedding or other special event.

Pricing On top of a variety of equipment to rent, your rental company should be able to work with your budget. If you need chair rentals, there should be several different options, from high-end to inexpensive. Tables, linens, and decorations should also be available to fit your budget. Be upfront about your budget with your rental company, and examine your contract in depth. Make sure

Frederick Sullivan and Jaime Botello, who oversee the Weddings & Occasions page for the San Francisco Bay Times, are the talented wizards behind Sullivan-Botello Events (415-334-7394, http:// sullivanbotelloevents.com/) and SnB Party Rentals (650-877-0840, wwwsnbpartyrentals.com).

Both are Certified Wedding Planners with extensive experience in creating memorable, personalized events for special occasions. Their rental service is incredible, offering everything from beautiful gold Chiavari chairs to LED dance floors, and all at competitive prices. They are the creators of the Gay Vanity Wedding Show and are longstanding members of the Golden Gate Business Association, which is the nation’s first LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

Can you keep your lifestyle in retirement?

Misha Cohen’s Birthday

Photos courtesy of Carla Wilson

On Sunday, November 20, 2016, Misha Cohen celebrated her 65th birthday at the Mission Rock Resort with a large group of loving friends and family. The rain stopped, a beautiful sunset appeared, there was a delicious dinner and lots of laughter. Happy Birthday to Misha!

Let’s talk.

415.623.2450 Brio Financial Group

A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Service, Inc. 44 Montgomery St, Ste 4210 San Francisco, CA 94104-4815 415-623-2450

BrioFG.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2016 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved.

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Carla and Misha at The Cliff House for a special occasion.

Financing a Home in the Bay Area’s Hot Real Estate Market complex finances, such as multiple mortgages and lines of credit. In residential lending, being “outside of the box” can pose difficulties in qualifying. Such a borrower may be turned down outright, face higher rates, or, at the very least, experience delay.

Bank with Pride Wendy Ross To say the San Francisco Bay Area has a hot real estate market would be an understatement. The dream of buying a home has collided with the reality of limited supply and the influx of new residents driving up demand. As a result, competition is fierce. Anyone searching to discover that perfect house, condo or Tenancyin-Common (TIC) in the morning, may find it gone by lunchtime.

The cutthroat real estate competition often leads larger banks to set the bar higher for borrowers who might fall outside of a traditional mortgage “box.” Examples might be an entrepreneur starting her own business, a dentist trying to acquire a practice, or even a seasoned business owner with

Individuals and families with stable finances and good FICO scores should not have to tolerate higher rates, delays, or poor service. By doing their homework and learning about what different banks offer, potential homebuyers should be able to find a residential loan that meets their needs, and to secure that loan in an appropriate timeframe.

When looking at residential lenders, potential homeowners should look at large, regional and community banks as well as credit unions. Each has a distinct value proposition. While larger banks might publish the most attractive rates, they often require additional documentation, rely solely on the borrower’s financials, can take an exorbitant amount of time to process the loan, and frequently tack on extra fees to increase their profit margins.

Community banks operate differently and take a more holistic, personalized approach when determining a borrower’s eligibility for a residential loan. Community bankers have the flexibility to consider additional

OurTown SF Live!

factors, and can take the time to get to know the borrower’s entire financial picture. Borrowers can typically expect a more rapid and streamlined approval process as well.

A December 2015 Brookings Institution report sums it up well. “… These banks often engage in personal and non-standardized lending since they have specialized knowledge and expertise of their communities and customers, leading to their being called ‘relationship’ bankers.”

Community banks also may offer specific products or services that large institutions do not. In the San Francisco market, for example, these might include residential loans such as TICs and Co-ops.

Because they are based locally and have a deep understanding of the specif ic market they serve, community banks are typically aware of the unique needs present in their marketplace. Buying a home in the Bay Area is stressful enough. You don’t need your bank adding to it.

Wendy Ross is the President of Bank of San Francisco. She has more than 35 years of international, commercial, and private banking experience. Ross is a 2002 graduate of Leadership San Francisco and is a board member for numerous Bay Area organizations.

Photos by Paul Margolis More than 50 LGBT groups gathered on Saturday, November 19, at the Eureka Valley Rec Center for the first OurTown SF Live! networking event. Information tables staffed by experts from non-profits representing health, nutrition, fitness, dance and other fields were on hand. Entertainment included performances by the SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band, Sundance Saloon, Cheer SF and Momma’s Boyz. Congratulations to Paul Margolis and the entire team of organizers and volunteers. Thanks to Ramiro Perez who represented the San Francisco Bay Times.

We are proud to be nationally recognized by our peers and the media as the first national firm to launch a LGBT practice ‒ we make it our business to understand our clients’ unique needs.

www.marcumllp.com Nanette Lee Miller 415.432.6200 I nanettelee.miller@marcumllp.com International Member of Leading Edge Alliance

ASSURANCE

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ADVISORY

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Recent Benefits at Berkeley’s “The Freight” Berkeley’s Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse has recently hosted many benefits led by women of the Bay Area’s LGBT community. On Wednesday, November 9, “Linda Tillery: Music of Protest and Resistance” included performances by Tillery accompanied by Tammy Hall, Ruthe Davis and others. Highlights included music made famous by Donna Hathaway, Richie Havens and the Staples Sisters along with songs from the Civil Rights and anti-war movements of the 1960s.

Photos by Sandy Morris

One week later on Wednesday, November 16, The Freight welcomed the “A Night of Music for Camp It Up!” fundraiser supporting the nation’s longest running camp for LGBTQ families. Featuring performances by Melanie DeMore, Robin Flower & Libby McLaren, and Jennie Chabon & Lisa Zeiler, the program also included comedian Karen Ripley as emcee and a special guest performance by The Manning Family. Camp It Up! co-founder and longtime director Jill Rose was honored for her dedication and service.

As Heard on the Street . . . What are you grateful for this holiday season?

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compiled by Rink

M.J. Isabel

Denise D’Anne

Michael Zinoni

William Dean

Raoul Thomas

“Hurry it up to be over”

“The hope that Trump will be impeached and convicted”

“Happiness amidst the turmoil”

“Peace and love”

“Being here with a wish for a cure”

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From the Coming Up Events Calendar See page 28 Saturday, November 26 - The Lion King – Through Dec 31 @ SHN Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. Broadway touring company production. shnsf.com

Wednesday, November 30 - Light in the Grove – 6 PM @ National AIDS Memorial Grove, Golden Gate Park. Artistic illuminations, candlelight reflections and more. aidsmemorialgrove.org

Romantic Gay Drama Lazy Eye Features Seductive, Sensitive and Very Eye-Catching Male Leads

Film Gary M. Kramer In writer/director Tim Kirkman’s poignant, romantic drama Lazy Eye, recently released on DVD, Dean (Lucas Near-Verbrugghe) is a Los Angeles-based graphic designer with the titular ocular problem. One day, out of the blue, he gets an email from Alex (Aaron Costa Ganis), his ex from 15 years ago in New York City. After some email exchanges, the pair arrange to meet in Dean’s Joshua Tree home for sex, true confessions, and a possible second chance at their relationship.

The film, basically a two-hander, pivots on the dynamics between the attractive leads as they reveal secrets and lies, reflect on memories, and experience loneliness, honesty, and maturation. But what will catch the eyes, and hearts, of viewers is Near-Verbrugghe’s sensitive performance— he makes Dean’s despair palpable— and Costa Ganis’ seductive turn as Dean’s ex.

In a recent phone interview, writer/ director Kirkman spoke with me for the San Francisco Bay Times about Lazy Eye.

Tree to inform the characters. Can you discuss how you created each setting?

Gary M. Kramer: Your film is about seeing things clearly, be they relationships or objects.

What prompted you to write Lazy Eye?

Ti m K irk ma n: The desert is isolated, but it’s also romantic. I thought it was a great place for a romantic tryst. I moved from New York to Los Angeles, and that’s an ongoing conversation I have with friends from both coasts. In Los Angeles, there is a comfort and ease of life I never found in New York. It takes a tough person to live in New York: you battle the elements, other people, and the sidewalks. The humanity of it is more intense, and there’s more of it in a more compact place. The flashbacks to New York give a sense of the romance of the city—a life that’s gritty and full of romance and hope when you’re young. I was capturing the memories I have of that. These guys are haunted by these memories; they can’t help but think about the other. They have to deal with it to move forward

Tim Kirkman: Around the time I turned forty, my eyes started to change. I have amblyopia, and out of the blue, an ex contacted me. It was at a disruptive moment in my life, so I thought about the choices I made in my life. It’s a luxury to look at your life and be self-reflective. But it’s so common that I wanted to write about it. Eyes changing had a metaphorical significance, but it’s also about the way you see the world shifting. You reflect on being a younger person and letting go of that and embracing who you are in middle age.

Gary M. Kramer: Yes, I love when Dean admits about his lazy eye, “If I’d done what I was supposed to, I’d see the whole differently now.” Can you talk about the theme of change?

Tim Kirkman: Yes, I thought that had I done my eye exercises, I could have corrected the whole problem. I wish I had. It’s about regret, and the choices you make in your life.

Gary M. Kramer: Lazy Eye uses the environments of the couple’s early days in New York to Dean’s life in LA, to their weekend in Joshua

Gary M. Kramer: What prompted you to tell the story with flashbacks and triggers?

Tim Kirkman: Looking back on your 20s, you try to rationalize and intellectualize things. I’m a grown up now. That’s why Dean is not accusatory when they reunite. But his emotions can be triggered by something

like a smell. I like the idea of revisiting one day. This night in New York was sexually charged. I wanted to address the carnality of that moment, which is a magnet in the film: The longing for that kind of freedom when you approach middle age is really appealing. They are thinking back to the moment they first met. That would be foremost in their memories.

Gary M. Kramer: Can you talk about the visual approach you took to the film?

Tim K irkman: The f irst thirty minutes is almost a silent film. You are watching Dean be by himself. It’s all about isolation and loneliness. The visuals are all still, but once Alex arrives, the camera is handheld. There’s more tension. There is an unsettled

feeling even during the dinner scene.

I tried to capture that tension.

Gary M. Kramer: Was there ever one that got away for you?

Tim Kirkman: Yes, and it’s fictionalized. We all have those people and they may not be lovers, but teachers, or family members. But you will be one of either of those people—the one who looks for someone or the one who is pursued—because we’re more connected than ever before. We have to figure out ways of dealing with it. The way I dealt with it is that I made a movie. © 2016 Gary M. Kramer Gary M. Kramer is the author of “Independent Queer Cinema: Reviews and Interviews,” and the co-editor of “Directory of

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun

By Sister Dana Van Iquity Sister Dana sez, “I know I threatened to move to Canada if the election didn’t turn out my way, but it turns out Thanksgiving is here, and I can’t do that in Canada. Oh hell, I can’t do ANYTHING in Canada.

So I’ll just stay here in good ol’ EssEff and stick it out with the rest of you!”

And speaking of the election rejection, I received an invitation from Chris Verdugo, Executive Director of the SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS that beautifully addressed my sad state, saying, “While the events of the last few days have left us rattled and dis-

mayed, our intention this evening is to create space to come together. A time to acknowledge what is good and wonderful, to take comfort with one another while celebrating the success and vision of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. Thank you for your commitment and support. See you tonight.” So, of course, I RSVP’ed at once. It was the annual “CRESCENDO KICKOFF ” taking place at a new venue to me, Tank18, 1345 Howard Street. There I joined other sad, shocked, sorrowful lovers of music for a healing. At the event, Verdugo pointed out how another occasion of shock and sadness had brought out the SF Gay Men’s Chorus to the steps of City Hall to help heal us after the horrible murder of gay activist Supervisor Harvey Milk in the Chorus’ very first public performance. He noted we queers have been fighting for over 50 years, and we will continue to fight for civil rights. And sing all the way! He said the funds raised for SFGMC would help them travel the country bringing the joy of gay men singing and healing hearts.

The 11th annual “Crescendo” fundraiser will be a dinner on Sunday, March 12. Longtime Chorus member and former board chair Michael Tate introduced 20 other members to sing Backstreet Boys’ “Larger Than Life,” with the very apropos lyrics: “All you people can’t you see, can’t you see/How your love’s affecting our reality/Every time we’re down/You can make it right!” They followed with the hilarious “If You Were Gay, But I’m Not Gay” from the musical Avenue Q. Their next offering was a medley of Frankie Valli and The 4 Seasons with “Can’t Take My Eyes off You,” “Sherry Baby,” “Walk Like a Man,” and “Let’s Hang On.” And, finally, they went into a Christmas set—but I’m sorry not sorry, I just can’t. Not yet. Too soon. But I’ll be ready by December 9 and 10 for SFGMC with “BABES IN JOYLAND: DREAMING OF A PINK CHRISTMAS” at the Nourse Theater and their annual “HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS” on December 24 at the Castro Theatre. It has been announced that SFGMC will pursue a “RED

STATE FREEDOM TOUR” in the summer of 2018. While the exact itinerary has not been determined, it is their plan to go on a whistle stop tour through those states where the LGBTQ community is struggling, and likely feeling even further marginalized after the election results. sfgmc.org THE RUBBER WOMEN OF SAN FRANCISCO and WAGZ PACK at ARTSAVES LIVES GALLERY, 518 Castro Street, held a festive formal fundraiser benefitting both clubs, celebrating the arts and abundant talent within the Leather Community. The night was hosted by Mistress Eden Alexander, RWSF President. Starting with a Spanish dinner, guests were seated “parlour style” to enjoy classical dance, music, literature, and cinema all performed or produced by folks within the Leather community.

Complimentary wine and beer were served by collared service submissives and sissy maids. Entertainment was provided by Kippy Marks on electronic violin with impressive originals; Damien Alvarez gave

us a rousing flamenco dance demonstration—burning up the floor; Chelsea Poe provided an Independent Art Film Short Screening; Julia Austenfeld sang four 17th century opera arias, including some Handel; Grace Towers executed dramatic modern lyrical dance to the Maya Angelou poem, “Still I Rise;” and Bella Vendetta closed out the evening with an art film short screening. Dress Code was Formal Leather and Fetishwear. Rubber was encouraged. Black tie was optional.

Great fun was had by all.

THE GRASS ROOTS GAY RIGHTS FOUNDATION concluded its 2016 fundraising season of events at a margarita party at Folsom Street Foundry. The Foundation produces the annual “REAL BAD” fundraising party that follows San Francisco’s world-renowned Folsom Street Fair, the REACH Pride T-Dance party during San Francisco Pride, and the RECOVERY T-Dance party that immediately follows the Castro Street Fair. The Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation announced that (continued on page 30)

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SA N FRANCISCO BAY   T I ME S NOVE MB E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

Gratitude, Attitude and Spanx

TLC: Tears, Laughs and Conversation Dr. Tim Seelig When I realized my next column would come out on Thanksgiving, I just knew it had to be deep and profound. This holiday will be a difficult one as we are facing a great deal of fear following the election.

The usual “counting of blessings” has a cloud over it. I really wanted this article to be some ray of light. I thought and thought about that and looked deep inside for words to inspire and enlighten. Humor would be good if I could find some.

I thought, “I’ll write a poem.” That should be easy. After all, I’ve lived through a lot of Thanksgivings and Lord knows I’m full of … words. So I began where I assume most poets do, by going online to see what words actually rhyme with Thanksgiving.

Dang it, there were none. But, at that point, I was not to be deterred from my new calling. I know my readers (I love the way that after only 6 articles, you are now “my” readers—oh dear). Anyway, I thought, that’s fine, I’ll title my Thanksgiving poem “Gratitude.” Rhyme result: attitude.

Not a good time for that one. Other option: platitude. Uh, no!

One last option for the title, thanks.

Then I thought of how I spend Thanksgiving through New Year’s (conducting concerts and emotional binge-eating). The only rhyming word that really has relevance is Spanks. So, there you have it. You are not getting a poem about Thanksgiving and gratitude and having a good attitude about spending Black Friday shopping for Spanx so you can squeeze into that fabulous silver number you wore last New Year’s.

No poem, but I’m still thankful.

Since I was online anyway, I just googled Thanksgiving. I expected to be inspired by the many writings about what this day really means, along with tips on how to live a life of gratitude. There must be many from which to choose in this “new age” of self-awareness. Instead of gratitude tips, there were pages and pages of ways not to screw up the turkey you are making for your family (coming to your house for the very first time).

By a show of hands, how many of you have messed up a Thanksgiving meal? Thanks for your honesty.

Not to stereotype, but as a gay, you may recognize some of the following, parts of which may or may not be autobiographical.

It’s Thanksgiving morning. You woke up a little late and had a mi-

Photo Courtesy of SF City Hall / Nikki Ritcher Photography

mosa (or two) to help you wake up and brace yourself for the invasion of your family. You watched a little must-see Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, where the big stars lip-sync the latest mini-excerpts from Broadway musicals (an advance primer on next year’s Tony’s). You remembered to pre-heat the oven to 250 degrees, because somewhere you remember Martha said that for a moist turkey, a lower temperature is better.

You took that big bird out of the freezer. It was 10:30, probably time to pop that little sucker in the oven for the 1:00 pm lunch extravaganza.

Then you read the cooking instructions. “For a frozen turkey, cooking time is 20 minutes per pound.” You bought a 20-pound turkey. That’s six hours?

You call some of your close friends: Whole Foods, Andronico’s, Mollie Stone. Nothing. Your “go-to” culinary BFFs let you down. “No more turkey in the inn,” they say, totally mixing holiday metaphors. Panic sets in. Time for creativity. You start checking with some of your other friends, Grub Hub, Munchery and Yelp. Who could possibly be open on this most American holiday of all, made famous and important by the likes of Norman Rockwell, Butterball and Hallmark? Finally, you order the most fabulous cornucopia of delights from the only establishments open—a myriad of ethnic delights from the far-flung corners of the earth: China, Afghanistan, and Ethiopia!

Now, how to sell this to the family?

Easy. A quick text ensues.

“Dear Family, in these difficult time, we have decided that we will express our new-found concern about world affairs by departing from the traditional American Thanksgiving experience, in favor of a multi-cultural experience. Please wear a costume from a distant foreign land of your choosing—oh, and please bring a dessert from that country. See you in an hour.”

It was a Thanksgiving to remember.

Historic Rockwell- inspired cover of 2006 SFGMC holiday program.

All silliness aside, writing an article that appears on Thanksgiving Day is actually an amazing opportunity. I am exceedingly grateful for the incredible life I am allowed to live. I find myself humming the old southern church song, “Count your many blessings, name them one by one.”

There are just too many to name. To even start the list is daunting. The list of things for which I am grateful far outweighs the things that worry, frighten and upset me. I am grateful to live in this country, even full of warts and worse. I am even more grateful to live in San Francisco, warts and all. I am grateful for my family—biological and logical (to quote Armistead)—especially the two granddaughters. I am grateful for the Chorus and my husband and Grace, our puppy dog. I am grateful to be blessed with so much.

I can’t really tell anyone else how to live a life of gratitude. It is such a personal thing. But perhaps today you’ll make your own list—after your fabulous, last time ever, multicultural, United Nations Family Thanksgiving Celebration.

And for all of the people who appear on that list, make sure you tell them how grateful you are that they are in your life.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Dr. Tim Seelig is the Artistic Director of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus.

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Rainbow Grocery Cooperative Stays True to Its Soul-Satisfying Mission

Rainbow Grocery Cooperative at 1745 Folsom is on a street that members of our team often travel, going from San Francisco to other parts of the Bay Area and back. The happy rainbow graphic alone is a comforting sight for us, reminding that this worker-owned cooperative has always been supportive and even intertwined with our local LGBTQ community for decades. You can also find the San Francisco Bay Times there!

The store is one of our longtime distribution points. We are proud to be in this Mission District landmark spot, now 41 years old. Rainbow Grocery supports fair labor practices, offers affordable vegetarian foods with minimal negative ecological impact, donates to local non-profits and schools, supports organic farmers and other small local businesses and much more.

At the center of it all are the co-op’s dedicated workers.

“Our Worker-Owners have been extremely busy keeping the business afloat,” Esteban Garcia of Rainbow says. “As Worker-Owners, we take pride in making sure the job gets done because we’re fully invested in keeping the business running. Work It! Own It! When we are not busy running the place, our collective members are busy with their lives. We have many Worker-Owners who are artists ranging from chefs, painters, musicians, creative designers. The list goes on.”

Their creative energy also carries over to the store, where there is always something very cool going on. For example, last month, Rainbow Grocery teamed up with other Bay Area co-ops and hosted movie nights at Sports Basement SF and had a pizza party that showed how to use essential oils topically and in foods. The store also recently hosted Vegan Iron Chef, BMagic and AfroSolo events.

This year, Rainbow launched a customer appreciation program, providing easy access to sales, coupons and informative newsletters. The materials provide a welcome respite during this hectic post-election holiday period.

But you might be wondering why we’re featuring a veggie-centric store at a time when many are considering roasted turkey, holiday hams and other meaty fare.

It’s because their food is delicious! There is such a difference in taste between a crisp and juicy farm-fresh apple, for example, versus some of the waxed up mush you find at the box stores. Rainbow is also stacked to its rafters with great seasonal items now. Below are a few holiday recipes featuring some of the store’s most popular products.

Photos courtesy of Rainbow Grocery

(Shared by Mt.

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Stuffing wit h Apple, Dried Cher ries & Her b Brown But ter

(Shared by Field Roast)

INGREDIENTS: 4 cups 1⁄2-inch cubes (vegan) cornbread 4 cups 1⁄2-inch cubes (vegan) sourdough bread 6 Tbsp. vegan butter, divided Scant 2 cups 1⁄4-inch-thick half-moons celery Scant 1-1⁄2 cups thinly sliced leeks 1⁄2 cup finely chopped red onions 2-1⁄2 tsp. minced garlic 3 cups 1⁄2-inch cubes peeled and cored Granny Smith apples 4 Smoked Apple Sage Field Roast Sausages, crumbled 3 Tbsp. minced fresh sage leaves 1 Tbsp. minced fresh rosemary 1⁄2 cup sweetened dried cranberries 2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth 1⁄3 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves 1/4 cup egg substitute (equivalent to 2 eggs) 1 tsp. coarse salt 8 grinds black pepper DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat the oven to 375°F. 2. Pour the cornbread and sourdough cubes onto a baking sheet with sides. Once the oven is hot, toast until golden brown and dried out, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside (leave the oven on).

3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons vegan butter in a 12-inch, heavy, nonstick sauté pan (with 2 to 3-inch-high sides) over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the celery, leeks, red onions, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 8 minutes.

Add the apples and crumbled sausage and

simmer, stirring occasionally and breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon, until the apples are tender, about 6 minutes. Remove from the heat.

4. Meanwhile, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons vegan butter over medium heat in a small, heavy frying pan. Once it is melted, let it bubble for a minute, and then stir in the fresh sage and rosemary leaves. Let bubble for 1 minute, until the butter turns very light golden, and then remove from the heat and set aside. Meanwhile, place the cranberries in a small bowl, cover with very hot water, and let sit to soften, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain.

5. In a large bowl, combine the cranberries, bread cubes, vegetable-apple-sausage mixture, vegan butter (scrape it out of the pan), vegetable broth, parsley, egg substitute, salt, and pepper, using tongs to mix gently, but well. Spray the entire inside of a 9 x 13 x 2-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.

Pour the stuffing mixture inside and spread evenly, flattening it down. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Uncover and cook for another 20 minutes, until golden brown on top and tender and fluffy inside. Serve.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with braised winter greens. For dessert, serve pumpkin pie or a cranberry tart.

Try This: If you prefer your stuffing more savory than sweet, use all sourdough and no cornbread. Substitute sautéed mushrooms and Field Roast Italian Sausage for the dried cranberries.

For more information about Rainbow Grocery, including its holiday schedule, please visit: http://www. rainbow.coop/ 22

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S NOVE MB E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

Vega n Stuffing wit h Almonds, Apples & Dried Cra nber ries (Shared by Frontier Co-op) INGREDIENTS: 8–9 cups whole grain bread, cubed 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped 6 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1-1/2 cups shallots, peeled and chopped 2-1/2 cups tart apples, chopped 1/2 cup orange juice 1/2 cup dried cranberries 2 tsp. Frontier Organic Marjoram 2 tsp. Frontier Vegetable Broth Powder 1/8 tsp. Frontier Organic Nutmeg 1/8 tsp. Frontier Organic Allspice 3/4 tsp. Frontier Organic Lemon Peel 1/2 tsp. Frontier Organic Black Pepper, or to taste 3/4 tsp. sea salt, or to taste 1 cup boiling water DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven 325 degrees F. 2. In two shallow baking pans, spread bread cubes. Bake on two racks in oven, switching halfway through, for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden. Cool, then transfer to large bowl.

3. In large, heavy dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown. Remove

walnuts and add olive oil to pan. Add shallots and cook, stirring frequently, for 15 to 20 minutes, until browned. Add apples, marjoram, salt, pepper, nutmeg and allspice. Cook 8 to 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally, until apples begin to soften. Remove from heat.

4. In heavy saucepan over medium heat, bring orange juice and cranberries to simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes, until juice is absorbed.

5. Add cranberries and apple mixture to bread cubes and stir. Add walnuts and lemon peel and stir again.

6. Mix vegetable broth powder with water, stirring to dissolve. Add to the bread cube mixture and toss well.

7. In a well-oiled, 2-1/2 quart shallow baking dish, place stuffing mixture. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 30 minutes more, until browned.

Cooking tip: Stuffing can be assembled (but not baked) two days ahead, then kept covered in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Thanksgiving 2016 I am committed in the new year to continuing this tradition and more.

Aging in Community Dr. Marcy Adelman Slightly more than two years ago I introduced the Aging in Community column and promised to identify opportunities and challenges that San Francisco LGBT elders face in later life. The focus of the column has been on the people, programs, policies and legislation that empower and enable LGBT elders to continue to live and thrive in their communities. Articles targeting and supporting first of a kind legislation and innovative programs that provide smart, effective solutions to the challenges of living a long and well lived life have been highlighted (The Dignity Fund, The LGBT Dementia Care Project, The LGBT Senior Care Facilities Bill of Rights, The LGBT Disparities Reduction Act).

Today the greatest challenge we face is something much larger and darker than we would ever have thought possible. It is the election of a president who threatens the civil rights of all Americans and undermines our country’s democratic institutions.

The President elect is forming a government of people that espouse racist, anti-Muslim, anti-Semitic, antiLGBT and misogynist polices and rhetoric.

The danger to personal freedom, and to life as we know it, is real and cannot be minimized or ignored.

We need to act and act now to keep ignorance, hatred and bigotry from becoming the new normal. Robert Reich’s article, The First 100 Days: Resistance Agenda, lays out a solid plan of action: http://www.alternet. org/election-2016/robert-reichsfirst-100-days-resistance-agenda#.

WDHRhP4YIxY.facebook Check it out.

This Thanksgiving—when the very core values of democracy, such as respect for human rights, protection of civil rights, and a sense of mutual respect, whatever the differences—are under attack, I could not be more grateful than I am for community. There is hard work ahead, but I

take comfort in community and the broad inclusive coalitions that are marching and demonstrating, calling elected officials and signing petitions.

In the new year, the Aging in Community column will continue the tradition of identifying the opportunities and challenges for San Francisco’s LGBT elders. But expect to see expanded coverage of the people, organizations, policies and issues that affect all seniors on a national level.

This Thanksgiving, wherever you are and whomever you are, you are not alone.

This Thanksgiving, take time to appreciate what is good in your life.

This holiday season pray, meditate, reflect. Take time to be grateful for all of the people and things in your life that sustain and nurture you, and then get engaged. Identify what you can, and want, to do to keep our democratic institutions strong and to keep hatred from becoming the new normal. Then do it.

Marcy Adelman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in private practice, is co-founder of the non-profit organization Openhouse.

She is also a leading advocate and educator in LGBT affirming dementia care and a member of the Advisory Council to the Aging and Adult Services Commission.

Randy Coleman hails from New York, but has lived in San Francisco since 1975. Coleman shares that before moving to the Bay Area, he studied Art History and Architecture at Boston University while working as a resident artist for architectural rendering at a Massachusetts historical society. “All of my life I’ve been an artist,” Coleman says. “To know me is to know that I have a passion for art and architecture. I love this project for the San Francisco Bay Times, and hope that you enjoy my sketches.”

SF Sketch Randy Coleman

© Randy Coleman, 2016 S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES NOVEM BER 24, 2016

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Something for the Boys ported the institutions trying to help them, and worked for child welfare legislation.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

FOR THE HOLIDAYS & THEN SOME

Faces of Our LGBT Past Dr. Bill Lipsky He is probably the most important and influential American author that nobody reads. Horatio Alger, Jr., best known for his inspiring “books for boys”—more than a hundred of them—popularized one of the greatest myths of modern American culture: that anyone, no matter how impoverished and disadvantaged his origin or limited his opportunities seemed, can rise from “rags to riches” through hard work, determination, and perseverance to become rich and successful.

Except Alger did not actually write “rags to riches” stories. He wrote “rags to respectability” stories, something very different. His theme was moral salvation, not financial success, which none of his boys achieved on his own. All of them had help, usually from an older man who rewarded them for a good deed or heroic act, took them into his business or his home—sometimes both—mentored them and cared for them.

479 Castro Street 415.431.5364 cliffsvariety.com

Alger grew up wanting to be an author, but it was a scandal of major proportions that turned him to writing as a more or less full time career.

In 1864 he accepted the position of pastor with a church in Brewster, Massachusetts, at a salary of $800 a year. He delivered spirited sermons, worked for moral purity—he founded the local chapter of the Cadets for Temperance— and involved himself in all particulars of parish life.

He was especially devoted to his congregation’s youth, organizing and joining them for sports events, hikes, and excursions. Eventually, some the faithful wondered why he “was always with the boys.” Then they wondered why this eligible bachelor was not keeping company with any of the parish’s unmarried young women. They finally formed a committee to investigate his personal conduct. What they found was that their minister was guilty of “the abominable and revolting crime of gross familiarity with boys.”

Alger resolved to give d isadvantaged ch i ldren, through his writings, “examples of what energy, ambition, and an honest purpose may achieve:” a way out of poverty. He also wanted to “depict the inner life and represent the feelings and emot ions of t hese l itt le waifs of city … to excite a deeper and more widespread sympathy [for them] in the public mind.” Other children, he believed, also would benefit from his “simple tales of honesty triumphant” and both boys and men would learn the value of helping others.

In 1867 he wrote Student and Schoolmate, a threepart story, which was published as Ragged D i c k ; o r, S t r e e t Life in New York.

T he t a le centers around the life of a hardworking young bootblack, determined to bec ome “s p ec table,” who saves a drowning child and is rewarded by his grateful father with a new suit and a job in his mercantile firm.

Published as a book in 1868

by A. K. Loring, who specialized in literature for children, it became a best seller.

For every success like Rag ged Dick, how e v e r, p e r haps a dozen or mor e neg lec ted boys wound up in some kind of criminal activity. A few combined sel ling newspapers or carrying luggage with male prostitution. Bootblacking, Dick’s profession, made an ideal cover: f inding a dark corner a boy, kneeling down, could seem to polish his client’s shoes while providing more intimate services. In San

A lger did not deny the charges, claiming only that he had been “imprudent.” He resigned, promised never to take another ecclesiastic position, and left town. No formal charges were made against him, and the incident was hidden for the next hundred years. One parishioner tried to stop his stories from appearing in Student and Schoolmate, a boys’ monthly magazine devoted to moral writings, but was unsuccessful.

Humiliated and guilt-ridden, Alger resolved to atone for his “moral lapses” by devoting his life to saving others. He moved to New York City in 1867, where he found his cause. Visiting places frequented by street boys, he became an advocate for these neglected and abandoned children, sup24

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S NOVE MB E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

Newsboys at Fifth and Mission

Francisco, older boys, rouged, powdered and perfumed, gathered at the intersection of Third and Market streets, where they “plied their trade … i n a n e ve ning.”

A lger never married, and no evidence exists that he was ever a g a i n sex u a lly intimate with anyone, male or female. Perhaps, to atone for his “moral turpitude,” he simply abstained from any “persistent desires” in an ongoing “struggle against carnal temptation.” Or perhaps all trace of intimacy disappeared when his sister, at his request, burned his personal papers after his death.

Never considered to be a great literary stylist, even during his lifetime, Alger’s prose seems archaic today, making his moral tales feel that much more outdated. Although he did not create or advocate the “Horatio Alger myth” of “rags to riches,” he did something more important. He motivated millions of boys by his beliefs that all of us have value and that each of us can realize our potential when allowed or enabled to do so. Those ideas, once intrinsically and integrally woven into the fabric of American culture, are as vital as ever.

Bill Lipsky, Ph.D., author of “Gay and Lesbian San Francisco” (2006), is a member of the Rainbow Honor Walk board of directors.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE DE YOUNG AND LEGION OF HONOR

Read My Pins: The Madeleine Albright Collection Through January 29, 2017, at the Legion of Honor

Blue Bird,” circa 1880. Designer: Anton Lachmann Photography: John Bigelow Taylor

“Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil, See No Evil,” 2000. Designer: Iradj Moini Photography: John Bigelow Taylor

In 1996, airplanes carrying four Cuban-American fliers were shot down off the coast of Florida. At a press conference, Secretary Albright wore the blue bird pin with its head pointing down in mourning of the victims.

Secretary Albright wore the monkey pins on a visit to Moscow for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In her memoir, Albright says “he saw no evil” and denied human rights violations were being committed.

(Editor’s Note: This exhibit seems all the more meaningful due to the current Safety Pin movement, with wearers showing their support for vulnerable individuals after the presidential election, and Albright’s connections to Hillary Rodham Clinton.)

Read My Pins presents a remarkable range of more than 200 pins and brooches from the personal collection of Madeleine Albright. The majority of these pieces were collected and worn during Albright’s service as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (1993–1997) and as the first female Secretary of State (1997–2001), under President Bill Clinton.

The assortment is eclectic, international, and representative of nearly a century of jewelry design. Yet the jewelry’s true interest lies not in their materials or monetary value, but in the roles they played during her political service: Albright used her pins as silent, yet visually outspoken, codes to foreign off icials and the press. Pins could be adopted for various reasons—a shining sun or a patriotic flag would reinforce a positive alliance with the United States, for example, while more difficult negotiations might bring out wasps or snakes.

Albright served the U.S. government during a remarkable period in history, and many of the notable

landmarks of her tenure can be decoded through the visual iconography of her pins. These pieces document and symbolize moments of political upheaval and also convey the patriotism of this Czechoslovakian-born diplomat.

Whereas George H. W. Bush famously said, “Read my lips,” to convey a campaign promise, Albright encouraged, “Read my pins,” demonstrating that jewelry had become part of her personal diplomatic arsenal. These objects became delicate instruments with which she applied pressure during intense negotiations, and into which she invested humor as she represented the United States on the international stage.

2016 GLBT Historical Society Gala Photos by Rink and Bill Wilson

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

“Living History” was the theme of the 2016 GLBT Historical Society Gala held at the historic Green Room of the War Memorial on October 15. Hosted by Honey Mahogany of Ru Paul’s Drag Race, the event also included performance artist Dia Dear. Featuring a formal dinner and silent auction, the Gala featured a presentation of awards to activist Tamara Ching, museum conservator Elizabeth Cornu and filmmaker David Weissman. Congratulations to Executive Director Terry Beswick and the entire staff and volunteer team on a wonderful evening and successful Gala 2016. glbthistory.org

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GGBA’s November Make Contact Photos by Rink

Fitness SF Trainer Tip of the Month

The Golden Gate Business Association’s president, Paul Pendergast, along with board members Aaron Lander and Anna Colibri, welcomed attendees to a memorable Make Contact networking event on Wednesday, November 16. Co-sponsoring along with GGBA was the Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, represented by the organization’s CEO Carlos Solorzano. The event was held at the historic Women’s Building on 18th Street in The Mission. Among the special guests attending was Mission SFPD Captain Daniel Perea.

Brandon Wolucka - Fitness SF Fillmore Single Leg Dead Lift Stand on one leg and keep the knee slightly bent. Slowly bend over at the waist, extending the opposite leg to help keep your balance. Continue until you are parallel with the ground, then slowly return to standing. To enhance this exercise, raising its level of difficulty, you can hold a kettle bell in one or both of your hands.

Troy Macfarland of Fitness SF provides monthly tips he’s learned from his colleagues who are professional trainers at local gyms.

He can be reached at tmacfarland@fitnesssf.com

A Thanksgiving Gift

Take Me Home with You!

• increase blood flow • relieve stress • improve mood • feel accomplished.

Exercising in a Car

Inside Out Fitness Cinder Ernst From all of us at Inside Out Fitness, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Relax. Enjoy your food. Even enjoy your family, if you can! Keep reading, because I will share how to get a free copy of “The Zero Minute Exercise Fix” audio workout.

During the holidays, you might be pressed for time. You may miss a few workouts. That’s OK. Relax about it.

In this column, I will give you some powerful exercises that can be done in your car, while you drink your morning coffee and/or in the bathroom!

Even on the busiest of days you can do a little exercise. At Inside Out Fitness we love small, sensible exercises done with kindness and good self-care.

Here is a list of instant benefits that come from doing small bouts of exercise. You will: • improve your energy immediately • oxygenate your blood 26

I know this sounds crazy, but in the early 90s, before everyone was using cell phones in their cars, I used to go on KFOG Radio and do commuter aerobics! We would put on a song and I would give exercise instructions. It was so fun. Drivers would call in to say they saw other people doing it in their cars, too. I have an mp3 download of the exercises to music.

So here is how you can obtain your free gift: Email me at coach@cinderernst.com and I will send you the mp3 file of commuter aerobics. We renamed it The Zero Minute Exercise Fix because it doesn’t take any extra time at all. Just promise you will not talk on your phone at the same time!

Additional Zero Minute Exercise Fixes Do 5 or 10 extra get-ups every time you use the toilet. Get-ups are just standing up and sitting back down.

These will really get your blood flowing.

Do some counter push-ups in the kitchen while you wait for the water to boil. To do them, place your hands a little wider than shoulder width on the counter. Then aim your chest (breasts, actually) to the edge of the counter as you squeeze your shoulder blades and bend your elbows. Then push away. Ta da. A counter push-up.

If you tend to get neck/shoulder pain,

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S NOVE MB E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

start with 5 or less. If it feels OK the next day, add a couple, and so on.

March in place while you brush your teeth. You can do all kinds of variations. March high, kick behind or maybe a step touch. Be creative.

Stretch your hips while you drink your coffee. If you don’t have a hip replacement, cross your left ankle over your right knee to stretch your hip capsule. Then do the other side.

Another coffee stretch is called the “Back Out the Driveway” stretch.

Keep your feet flat on the floor and then twist to the right, putting your left hand on your right knee and your right hand by your right butt cheek.

You should be able to look over your shoulder a little bit. Then reverse.

Each side will probably feel very different. Some people are very tight in the back and/or neck, so don’t be surprised if you can’t actually look over your shoulder. I often joke that we’ll all be running over bicycles in the driveway. Thank goodness for back up cameras!

Here is your Thanksgiving wellness coaching from me: Wedge a bit of ex-

“Am I part sheep!? You be the Charlize judge! My name is Charlize and I just celebrated my first birthday. I’m a social butterfly—I love going for long walks around the neighborhood, flaunting my signature mane! My ideal day would include a visit to the dog park and a long cuddle session afterward.”

Charlize is presented to San Francisco Bay Times readers by Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, the SF SPCA’s Co-President. Our thanks also go to Krista Maloney for helping to get the word out about lovable pets like Charlize.

To meet Charlize and other pets seeking their forever homes, please visit: San Francisco SPCA Mission Campus 250 Florida Street San Francisco, CA 94103 415-522-3500

Dr. Jennifer Scarlett and Pup

Aside from major holidays, the adoption center is open Mon–Fri: 1–6 pm and Sat–Sun: 10 am–5 pm. Free parking is available for those wishing to adopt!

For more information: https://www.sfspca.org/adoptions/pet-details/33328913 and sfspca.org/adopt ercise in the cracks. Have fun. Be easy on yourself and others. Appreciate as much and as often as you can.

See you in December!

Cinder Ernst, Medical Exercise Specialist and Life Coach Extraordinaire, helps reluctant exercisers get moving with safe, effective and fun programs. Find out more at http://cinderernst.com

Professional Services

LAW OFFICES OF MILES & TORRES Estate Planning 1393 Noe Street, San Francisco, CA 94131 (415) 308-2307 www.milestorreslaw.com

NewPer specti ves Center for Counseling

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY   T IM ES NOVEM BER 24, 2016

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Compiled by Blake Dillon

24 : Thursday Indigenous People’s Annual Thanksgiving Sunrise Gathering – Boats begin departing Pier 33 at 6 AM for ceremony on Alcatraz Island, Ohlone Territory.

Simulcast on DPFA 94.1 @ kpfa.org.

Alcatrazcurises.com/website/sunrise-gathering.aspx San Francisco Turkey Trot – 8 AM @ Golden Gate Park, Polo Fields. Benefit for Lowell High School Track & Field Team, kicking off Thanksgiving with an invigorating run or walk. facebook.com/ events/881330728661304 TransGiving 2016 – 11 AM @ Trans:Thrive, 730 Polk Street, Fourth Floor. Staff and volunteers of Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center and its trans specific programs host an annual Thanksgiving Feast.

Airstuffer PiBy Thanksgiving Afterparty – 9 PM @ The Monarch, 101 6th Street. Dramafree dance music benefit for Episcopal Community Services and Warm Winter Items for the Homeless. facebook.com/ events/677430119088618 facebook. com/events/1065190400263805

25 : Friday 27th Annual Great Tree Lighting Ceremony – 6 PM @ Union Square. Annual start of the holiday season featuring musical performances sponsored by Macy’s. unionsquareshop.com/treelightingunionsquare.html Theatre Rhinoceros presents Equus by Peter Shaffer – Eureka Theatre, 215 Jackson Street.

Directed by John Fisher, the play is a timeless classic about suppressed sexuality. therhino.org Plaid Friday – 10 AM and all day @ Laurel Book Store, 1423 Broadway, Oakland. Members of the bookstore staff will be on hand to make recommendations of gifts. laurelbookstore.com

26 : Saturday Alcoholics Anonymous – 11 AM @ Pacific Center for Human Growth, 2712 Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. Bi-Queer-Questioning weekly group. pacificcenter.org Mango Holiday – 2 PM @ El Rio, 3158 Mission Street. Annual party hosted by producers of the popular Mango event established 1996. facebook.com/MANGOSF/ The Lion King – Repeats through Dec 31 @ SHN Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market Street. Broadway touring company production of the classic Disney Tony Award winner. shnsf.com SHAG at the STUD2: Electric Boogaloo – 10 PM @ The Stuff, 399 9th Street.

Performances all night long and DJ ChakaQuan (Svko Qvan). facebook. com/events/1869807449920055

27 : Sunday Our Town SF PostThanksgiving Eagle Beer Bust – 3 PM @ SF Eagle, 398 12th Street.

Bottomless beer or soda, and food too. facebook.com/ events/1808045342748850

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An Imperial Holiday – 4 PM @ Aunt Charlies Lounge. The Imperial Council of San Francisco benefit hosted by Empresss Galilea and Misty Blue with show, raffles and surprises. facebook.com/ events/1225805700816358/ Cold Snap! A Holiday Kickoff – 7 PM @ Martuni’s, 3 Valencia Street. Performances by a group of entertainers. facebook.com/ events/290848301309412 Cocktails & Classics: Mrs. Doubtfire – 8 PM on LOGO. Tune into a special showing of the film and discussion with Michael Urie and guests sharing stories about working on the film with Robin Williams. Check local listings.

28 : Monday Castro Tree Lighting Ceremony – 6 PM @ 18th and Castro location. The annual ceremony hosted by the Castro Merchants Association. castromerchants.com Donna Sachet’s 24th Annual Songs of the Season – Repeats November 29 and 30 at 8 PM @ Halcyon, 314 11th Street. Holiday show benefiting AIDS Emergency Fund. Songsoftheseason24.eventbrite.com Post-Election Decompression with Inforum and Brigade – 6 PM @ Brigade HQ, 524 3rd Street.

Produced by Inforum at the Commonwealth Club and Brigade, the world’s first network for voters addressing declining citizen power and political engagement. facebook. com/events/1359906010710875

29 : Tuesday Giving Tuesday – The 4th annual observance of a day encouraging giving back with donations to your favorite charities and service organizations. givingtuesday.org DanceFAR 2016 – 7:30 PM @ Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission Street (at 3rd Street).

Celebrated Bay Area dance companies perform to benefit the Cancer Prevention Institute of California with after-party featuring food and drinks from local restaurants and wineries. facebook.com/ events/1601452233496771

30 : Wednesday Light in the Grove – 6 PM @ National AIDS Memorial Grove, Nancy Pelosi Drive & Blowing Green Drive, Golden Gate Park.

Artistic illuminations, candelight reflections, festive cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and gourmet buffet with musical and choreographed performances. aidsmemorialgrove.org Darren Criss @ Feinstein’s – 7 PM @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko, 222 Mason Street. Star of Hedwig & Glee.

Feinsteinsatthenikko.ticketfly.com A John Waters Christmas – 7 PM @ Great American Music Hall.

Legendary filmmaker John Waters spreads yuletide cheer in his oneman show. gamh.com One Night Only: Play With Bebe Trivia Reunion @ Harvey’s – 8 PM @ Harvey’s, 500 Castro Street. Retro trivia challenge with laughter and “giftables.” facebook.com/events/22775497096 3282/

1 : Thursday World AIDS Day Ride – 8:30 AM @ National AIDS Memorial Grove, Nancy Pelosi Drive & Bowling Green Drive, Golden Gate Park. Positive Pedalers will host a remembrance ride in the Park. tofighthiv.org/site/Calendar/195755 9811?view=Detail&id=186471 Hearts Rising: 23rd Annual World AIDS Day National Observance – 11:30 AM @ National AIDS Memorial Grove, Golden Gate Park, intersection of Bowling Green and Nancy Pelosi Drive. Program, complementary luncheon and panel discussion with leaders from the hemophilia community. Aidsmemorialgrove.org World AIDS Day Candle Light Vigil – 6:00 PM @ San Francisco AIDS Foundation, 1035 Market Street. Community candle light vigil hosted by Black Brothers Esteem, TransLife and DREAAM. facebook.com/events/ 1691219347859955 World AIDS Day Screening of Last Men Standing – 6:30 PM @ Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street. San Francisco Chronicle’s documentary following the lives of eight survivors of AIDS. castrotheatre.com/s-events.html Academy of Friends 2016 Holiday Reception – 6:30 PM @ Williams-Sonoma Union Square, 340 Post Street. Live entertainment, festive cocktails and bites with yummy Peppermint Bark commemorating World AIDS Day and help support Bay Area HIV/AIDS service organizations. academyoffriends.org Sonoma County 15th Annual Dining Out For Life – More than 80 restaurants donating a percentage of food sales to Food For Thought benefit for HIV/ AIDS-related services.

FFTfoodbank.org The Golden Girls: The Christmas Episodes 2016 – Through December 23 @ Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th Street.

Feautring Heklina, D’arcy Drollinger, Matthew Martin and Holotta Tymes. goldengirlsf.com

2 : Friday Red Sting Art Installation Opening Reception – 6 PM @ Pro Arts Gallery, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland. Reception for artist Marian Van der Zwaan’s site specific installation, featuring a screening of an excerpt fro the opera Nubian Word for Flowers.

Proartsgallery.org Meet the Artist: Photographer Wendy Walker – 6 PM @ Laurel Book Store, 1423 Broadway, Oakland. laurelbookistore.com Are We Almost There? The Travel Musical – 8 PM through January 28 @ Phoenix Theater, 414 Mason Street, 6th Floor. An original musical revue of comedy songs about travel. arewealmosthtere.org

3 : Saturday Ferociously Fast Theater – Repeats on Dec 4 @ Brava Theater, 2781 24th Street. The annual Winter Festival of Micro Plays by more than 40 playwrights. bayareaplaywrightsfestival.org A Day of Silents – Six silent film programs starting at 10 AM @ The Castro Theatre, Castro Street.

Presented by the San Francisco Silent Film Festival. silentfilm.org

Original Musical Adaptation of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol – Repeats Fridays and Saturdays @ 8 PM through December 18 @ Novato Theater Company, 5420 Nave Drive, Novato. novatotheatercompany.org

4 : Sunday San Francisco Gay Flag Football League Playoffs – Full schedule and info available. Flag football and social activities for LGBT community of SF. sfgffl.org Unleash Dance Party – 4 PM @ Ivy Room, 860 San Pablo Avenue, Albany. Mingle and dance at the newest women-owned club. ivyroom.com

5 : Monday Help Is On The Way For The Holidays XV – 6 PM @ Marines Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter Street. Richmond/Ermet AID Foundation’s annual holiday show featuring cast members of The Lion King and The King and I. After Party at Clift Hotel. reaf.org No Cover Charge Night – 5 pm @ The Elbo Room, 647 Valencia St. elbo.com

6 : Tuesday The Bone Bridge by Trina Davies – 2 PM @ Custom Made Theatre, 533 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor. 11th Annual Rough Reading Series presented by the Playwrights Foundation and National Center for New Plays at Stanford University.

Bayareaplaywrightsfestival.org 7th Annual Drag Queens on Ice – 8 pm @ Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square. Donna Sachet emcees with a host others, including special guest Empress Khmera Rouge of The Imperial Council of SF. All ages welcome.

Unionsquareicerink.com

7 : Wednesday Meditation Group – 12 noon @ SF Public Library, 100 Larkin.

Repeats on Wednesdays at the James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center. http://sfpl.org/index. php?pg=1020858801

8 : Thursday History Talk: When a Killer Stalked the Castro – 7 PM @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street. Journalist Elon Green presents an illustrated talk about the Doodler murders in 1974-75. glbthistory.org.

Jane Lynch Holiday Show – Repeats Dec 9 & 10, 8:00 PM @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko, 222 Mason Street. . Feinsteinsatthenikko.ticketfly.com Women’s Jazz & Blues Jam! – 7 PM @ Octopus Literary Salon, 2101 Webster Street #170, Oakland. Supportive event for musicians to meet, greet and make music. oaklandoctopus.org

9 : Friday Cleve Jones: A Life of Activism – 7 PM @ Jewish Community Center of SF, 3200 California. Peter Stein in conversation with Cleve Jones on his life and his new memoir When We Rise. jccsf.org

Happy Thanksgiving!

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ROSTOW (continued from page 11) about legal deference, a comment that makes some of us wonder if the justices even care about the transgender civil rights at issue.

Now, think about the incoming Trump administration. Do you believe Trump’s EEOC or Office of Civil Rights is going to push a GLBTfriendly interpretation of all these federal laws? Our legal activists have been operating as partners with the Justice Department and the rest of the administration for most of the last eight years, but all that’s over now.

I don’t know how much antigay energy the Trump Justice Department will bring to bear on their policies, but they’re not going to be doing us any favors. Many GLBT activists have not fully appreciated the subtle, but extremely powerful, support of our constitutional lawyer of a president, but perhaps they’ll notice it after the fact when it will be profoundly missed.

Will the Center Hold?

I’ve been reading a few scare headlines in the wake of Trump’s victory. But no, the High Court is not going to roll back marriage rights, not

even if we lose our gay rights majority a few years down the road. That’s nice, but it won’t stop Trump-led Republicans from passing wide-ranging antigay religious freedom laws that will keep our community’s litigators busy for years.

It’s not even Trump himself that we have to fear. He seems indifferent, or even mildly supportive of GLBT rights. But he has also announced his intent to roll back all of Obama’s executive orders on day one. In theory, that would include the executive order that requires federal contractors to protect their gay and trans workers against job bias, covering some 14 million GLBT workers in the process.

Even if Trump doesn’t personally hate us, large numbers of his groupies are itching to put us back in our place, so I doubt Trump would disappoint his allies by retaining Obama’s pro-GLBT contractor policy.

And yes, we still have our marriage majority, led by Anthony Kennedy.

But Kennedy does not necessarily vote for transgender rights, nor is he a dependable ally in the fight against state-sanctioned religious bigotry.

The man voted in favor of Hobby Lobby, albeit through a narrow concurring opinion of his own.

So what does this mean? Well, I’m not sure. I suppose we can count on Kennedy to stand with us if or when a case reaches the Court that asks whether or not Title VII’s ban on sex discrimination should cover sexual orientation bias as well. At some point next year, the full court of the Seventh Circuit will likely rule that it does, in a case that could continue to the Supreme Court. And earlier this month, a federal court in Pennsylvania ruled in favor of a gay man’s constructive discharge claim under Title VII (in a case that was filed on behalf of that man by the Obama administration).

On the other hand, what would Kennedy say to the antigay Colorado baker who has asked the Supreme Court to hear his appeal now that the Colorado Supreme Court has declined to listen to him? Jack Philips ran into his state’s anti-discrimination laws when he refused service to two gay men, and is now waiting to see if the U.S. Supreme Court will take an appeal.

Already, the High Court has ducked

a similar gay wedding case out of New Mexico, where a photographer got nailed for refusing to take a gay wedding gig. While we’re at it, florist Barronelle Stutzman has just argued her antigay wedding case before the highest court in Washington State.

Will one of these so-called “religious freedom” cases hit the High Court’s docket during the Trump years? And if so, will Kennedy rule as the champion of gay rights, or will he be the guy who lined up with Sam Alito in favor of religious freedom? How can we know?

Would You Rather?

What else is new? I’m not a fan of Francois Fillon, the likely center right challenger for the French presidency next year, although I suppose he’s better than Le Pen. This reminds me of the bizarre adjustments we are making, thanks to our surreal new political context: What a relief it is that, say, Mitt Romney might be Secretary of State. Mitt’s not so bad! How nice it is that Trump picked Reince Priebus rather than Steve Bannon for his Chief of Staff. We can live with Reince!

Finally, one of the most touching post-election essays I read came from Jesse Wegman writing in the New York Times. Wegman has a two-and-a-halfyear-old daughter, Sami, who got a Hillary Clinton action figure last spring as a joke. The doll had long since been forgotten, and Sami had no way of knowing about the election, yet on Wednesday, November 9, she demanded that her mother find “Hilly Kinton,” as she called her, and after the doll was unearthed from the bottom of the toy chest, she stared at it for a long time and then insisted she take it to school.

Of course she knew about the election. I have no idea how or even what she knew or sensed, but just as we have read about a 100-year-old woman who was proud to vote for Clinton, so it is that Sami fills out the chronological timeline. The image of a toddler staring sadly at Hilly Kinton on the day after the election—a little girl who can’t even really speak her feelings—well, that would have brought tears to my eyes if they hadn’t already been there. arostow@aol.com

SISTER DANA (continued from page 19)

RAINBOW WORLD FUND and the GLBT HISTORICAL SOCIETY presented “FROM UGANDA WITH LOVE” at the historical society museum. There we met Richard Lusimbo, a chief witness in the case against anti-gay American pastor Scott Lively. Lusimbo spoke about the terror that the minister and his colleagues have unleashed against LGBTQ Ugandans, and discussed the case being heard in Federal Court charging Lively with committing crimes against humanity.

Lusimbo gained international attention when he was outed in 2013 and 2014 by a Ugandan tabloid for being gay. His picture appeared on the cover of the tabloid Red Pepper, with the headline “Top Gays Speak Out: How I Became Homosexual.” After receiving repeated death threats, he had to leave his home and later leave the country to stay briefly in the United States. He has since returned to Uganda, and like other LGBTQ leaders there, he lives under constant threat of violence in his home country. But we were pleased to hear him speak at this event. Historical Society Executive Director Terry Beswick talked about “Vision 2020 to build a world class museum in San Francisco—when the final lease extension on their current museum runs out in four years. The next several months of this campaign will focus on building up the GLBT Historical Society’s finances to position them for the launch of a future capital campaign.

Beswick introduced veteran gay activist Cleve Jones, founder of the

NAMES PROJECT AIDS MEMORIAL QUILT, who said, “This has been one hell of a week, and I am frightened and worried about the Trump administration regarding foreign policy and HIV/AIDS.” He stressed this is so much worse than the Reagan and Bush administrations. Jones brought forth Rainbow World Fund Executive Director Jeff Cotter who spoke about the RWF as the world’s first and only all-volunteer, LGBTQ-based humanitarian aid organization. He said their mission is to promote peace, unity, and hope by leading the LGBT movement in participating in humanitarian relief efforts. RWF has donated over $4.1 million of life-saving aid.

Cotter introduced Lusimbo in a stirring presentation ending with Lusimbo’s optimistic conclusion, “Giving up is not an option, because we are not in this alone. There is hope.”

CASTRO STREET ARTSAVESLIVES STUDIO AND GALLERY presented the “NOVEMBER SHOW OF ARTISTS & PERFORMERS” at 518 Castro Street. Some of the artists included: Liam Peters, Bonita Cohn, Joel Hoyer, Martin Freeman, David York (who did a lovely portrait of Sister Dana, among many other fabulous pieces), Chuck Drees, Tim Burns, Bill Bowers, J B Higgins, Kate Rosenberger, Celia Beatts, Scarlet Astrid, Frank Pietronigro, Ed Terpening, Wesley Loesch, J-Wo, and Cystal Karmanov. Performers included: Lynnee Breedlove, Scarlet Astrid, Ash Fisher, Kristine Wilson as emcee, and others. As always, free wine, beer, water, and food were provided, courtesy of gallery owner/artist Thomasina De Maio. It’s a no-commission gallery, and all proceeds always go to the artists.

KREWE DE KINQUE, the Mardi Gras-based social club and fun

fundraising group, held our November benefit for our “BAL MASQUE XIV ” fund benefiting Homobiles at The Edge bar. This month’s Beer Bust, Show & Raffle was hosted by the fabulous MARY WANNAH! There were the usual raffles, but the Grand Prize was a THANKSGIVING TURKEY! We “Let the Good Times Roll,” or in N’Orleans French: “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”

SISTER DANA SEZ, “I AM THANKFUL THAT OUR CLEVER COMMUNITY HAS SO MANY GREAT EVENTS AVAILABLE. CHECK THESE OUT!” MACY’S presents “THE 27TH ANNUAL GREAT TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY IN SAN FRANCISCO “ featuring performances by singer-songwriter Aloe Blacc on Friday, November 25, 6 pm in Union Square Park, San Francisco. Macy’s will celebrate the start of the holiday season with the 27th Annual Great Tree Lighting Ceremony in Union Square. Following a series of musical performances by headliner Aloe Blacc and Bay Area choirs, the evening will culminate with the presentation of Macy’s annual gift to San Francisco—a beautiful, reusable, 83-foot tree decorated with more than 33,000 twinkling energy-efficient LED lights and 1,100 shining ornaments. Attendees can look forward to musical performances by singer-songwriter Blacc, known for hit songs “The Man,” “I Need a Dollar,” and “Wake Me Up.” Also performing on the stage will be the San Francisco Boys’ Chorus, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir and the cast of She Loves Me from the San Francisco Playhouse.

The annual “CASTRO TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY “ will be on Monday November 28 at 6 pm, presented by the CASTRO MERCHANTS. Located on the corner of Castro and 18th Street, in front of the Bank of America building, the

festive holiday celebration will feature members of the SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS and the SAN FRANCISCO LESBIAN/GAY FREEDOM BAND singing and playing seasonal music.

Donna Sachet—as always—will be the emcee, introducing various SF dignitaries. Of course we can expect Santa and his elves. There will also be the traditional blessing of the tree

by Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. And be on the lookout for the special holiday silver/red bows on palm trees on the Market Street Median from Castro to Octavia Blvd.

As many people say, “The holidays don’t begin until you’ve seen DONNA SACHET’S SONGS OF THE SEASON.” Songs of the Season, benefiting the AIDS EMERGENCY FUND, returns for the 24th year. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, November 28, 29, and 30, the seasonal show is at its new home at Halcyon, 314 11th Street. If you have never attended this amazing holiday cabaret show, you will be in for a real treat. The show promises you an evening filled with a variety of locally and internationally recognized and spirited entertainers—all determined to usher you into the joy and excitement of the holiday season.

On November 30, the eve of WORLD AIDS DAY, the NATIONAL AIDS MEMORIAL will hold its 7th annual “LIGHT IN THE GROVE” fundraising gala from 6–9:30 pm. A sell-out every year, Light in the Grove draws more than 600 attendees in support of the Grove’s mission and programs. For one enchanting evening, the Grove, located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, is artistically illuminated to honor the sense of loss and to celebrate the spirit of hope. Guests experience a candlelight reflection at the Circle of Friends, and wander reflectively through the spectacularly-illuminated Redwood Grove to a

warmly-lit tent. The evening includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and dinner with special musical and choreographed artistic performances. aidsmemorial.org Join ACADEMY OF FRIENDS at their annual “HOLIDAY PARTY,” commemorate WORLD AIDS DAY, and help them support Bay Area HIV/AIDS service organizations. Enjoy live entertainment, festive cocktails, and bites prepared by the Williams-Sonoma chefs while shopping for all your holiday essentials. Through the generous support of their sponsor WILLIAMS-SONOMA UNION SQUARE, you’ll receive 20% off all purchases during the event. An AOF favorite includes the yummy Peppermint Bark which makes a great gift for friends, family, and work colleagues. Held on Thursday, December 1, 6:30–8:30 pm in the store at Williams-Sonoma Union Square, 340 Post Street. eventbrite. com/e/academy-of-friends-2016-holiday-reception Sister Dana sez, “As a thankful queer, I prefer to call Thursday, November 24th , as ThanksGAYing. TGIG: Thank God I’m Gay!”

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

its fundraising events and charitable contributions totaled $215,325, which was donated in full to six LGBT health and community service beneficiary organizations: Project Homeless Connect, HIV Story Project, Dolores Street Community Services, LGBTQ Connection, New Conservatory Theatre Center, and The Trevor Project.

Dennis McMillan (aka Sister Dana) with GLBT Historical Society executive director Terry Beswick at the Rainbow World Fund’s From Uganda with Love event featuring activist Richard Lusimbo held at the GLBT History Museum on November 17.

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With songstress Leanne Borghesi at Feinstein’s at the Nikko for the San Francisco Bay Times pre-performance reception.

PHOTO BY SANDY MORRIS

Sister Dana and Ty, wearing the Strut t-shirt, at the Edge Bar attending the Krewe De Kinque benefit for Homomobiles taxi service.

PHOTO BY RINK

Dennis McMillan (aka Sister Dana) at the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus Crescendo Kickoff Party.

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Sister Dana Turns Up Everywhere

Project Inform’s Evening of Hope - A Night of Lifesaving Fashion Photos by Rink, Paul Margolis, and Bill Wilson

PHOTO BY RINK PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY RINK

On Saturday evening, October 29, Project Inform hosted its annual gala at the War Memorial Performing Arts Center. Entitled Evening of Hope - A Night of Lifesaving Fashion, the event included a special fashion presentation showcasing one-of-a-kind condom couture and a host of fashion models. In addition to the stunning view of SF City Hall, the program featured a live auction and live music by Jason Brock and Dr. Dee Spencer. DJ Christopher B was on hand spinning tunes. The evening benefitted the work of Project Inform’s work throughout the year. Congratulations to Executive Director Dana Van Gorder and the entire event team. projectinform.org

15th Anniversary SF Transgender Film Festival Photos by Paul Margolis Held November 10-13 at the Roxie Theater, the festival included three days of first rate screenings and other great activities. Since its founding in 1997 as North America’s first film festival focusing on transgenders, SFTFF has sponsored an ambitious schedule of events bringing awareness, education and fun to transgender and gender variant filmmakers, performers and their allies. Congratulations to artistic director Shawna Virago and the entire team of volunteers and supporters. sftff.org

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