San Francisco Bay Times - December 15, 2016

Ghost Ship Fire Aftermath Extended Coverage Pages 6-7

New state laws protecting LGBT rights will go into effect in 2017 Page 8

December 15 - January 12, 2017 | www.sfbaytimes.com

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PHOTO BY HENRY WALKER

Time to Rise Again

Cleve Jones Pioneering LGBT activist and author of the new memoir When We Rise See Pages 21-22

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In the News Compiled by Dennis McMillan 2016 State Legislative Report: Anti-LGBTQ Legislation Spread Nationwide A recent Human Rights Campaign study found 202 anti-LGBTQ bills were filed in 34 states—that’s 76 percent of states that had legislative sessions this year. These bills ranged from attempts to turn the clock back on marriage equality to bills creating a license to discriminate against same-sex couples with taxpayer dollars to protecting those who peddle the discredited practice of so-called “conversion therapy.” Of the record 202 anti-LGBTQ bills filed, 55 of those bills directly target transgender people. Anti-transgender bills passed this year include the infamous HB2 in North Carolina, which mandates discrimination against transgender people in publicly-owned facilities at the same time it overturned LGBTQ-inclusive nondiscrimination ordinances, among other provisions; H.B. 1523 in Mississippi, which allows individuals and businesses to cite religious belief about marriage or gender identity as a legal reason to refuse service to LGBTQ people, single mothers, unwed parents and others; and a non-binding legislative resolution passed in Oklahoma in opposition to the guidance issued by the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education related to discrimination against transgender students in schools. hrc.org Changes Abound at Openhouse, Including New Executive Director 2016 has been a remarkable year for Openhouse. The founding vision and purpose of the agency, to create long term affordable housing options for LBGT seniors, is coming to fruition

with the opening of 55 Laguna. This building, combined with the housing development that will begin construction in 2017, provides 119 units of LGBT welcoming senior housing—the first in San Francisco and one of the largest developments in the nation. With the opening of these buildings, Openhouse will continue to expand services to reach 3,000 seniors annually, and affect many thousands more through training and advocacy. On February 13, 2017, Dr. Karyn Skultety will be taking the helm of Openhouse as its next Executive Director. She currently serves as the Vice President of Health Services at Institute on Aging. She has built a career providing innovative solutions and services for aging adults.

Her vision, leadership, and ability to build effective strategic partnerships will serve Openhouse well as it expands services to meet the needs of aging LGBT community members. openhouse-sf.org Scott Wiener Sworn in to California State Senate Scott Wiener was sworn in as a California State Senator. He will represent Senate District 11, including all of San Francisco and parts of Northern San Mateo County. Wiener was elected to serve a four-year term, and he succeeds Mark Leno. Wiener previously served for six years as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Senator Wiener was joined on the floor of the swearing in by family and friends, including his parents, aunt, sister, brother-in-law, and nephews. He was also joined by the City Attorney Dennis Herrera,

Equality California Executive Director Rick Zbur, SEIU Local 87 (private sector janitors) President Olga Miranda, and nightlife community leader Joe Carouba. Senator Wiener celebrated his swearing-in with the community he will serve at the Swedish-American Hall in San Francisco on December 5. The California Constitution requires that the Senate be organized on the first Monday of December. The Legislature will reconvene for 2017 on January 4, after the holidays. scottwiener.com Heavily Gay District 8 Will Likely Be Without a Supervisor Until January With Scott Wiener vacating his current role of San Francisco District 8 Supervisor, it falls on Mayor Ed Lee to appoint a replacement to fill Wiener’s shoes. In an effort to ensure that his appointee can serve the maximum amount of time possible, the Examiner reports that Lee may end up taking his time to fill the role.

With Wiener’s seat officially vacant, this would leave the district without representation until at least early January. It comes down to this: Under City rules, anyone appointed after January 8 could serve up to ten years in office. That would break down as the remaining two years of Wiener’s term plus two additional terms assuming he or she wins reelection in 2018 and 2022. In many ways, this path would echo the one taken by Mayor Lee himself—he was appointed by the Board of Supervisors to take over from Mayor Gavin Newsom after promising not to run for election when his term ended.

He broke that promise, and is in the process of serving his second term. sfist.com

Vigils for Oakland Ghost Ship Fire Victims Held in Castro and Oakland In the wake of the December 2 Oakland Ghost Ship fire, which left 36 dead, two vigils were held in the Bay Area. The first I attended in the Castro at Harvey Milk Plaza on December 5 at 5:30 pm. We brought candles and fresh flowers to lay on the large rainbow quilt stretched out on the concrete. A rainbow ribbon had been strewn through the banister. We left tags with names and ages of the victims. Small signs sent blessings and remembrances. One sign stood out and said it all: “Trans Lives Matter,” since many of the victims and survivors were transgendered. People said prayers, cried, hugged each other, and stood or knelt down in awe and reverent silence. A second vigil for victims of the Ghost Ship fire was organized in Oakland that night at 8 pm at Lake Merritt, hosted by a group called Raver Remembrance.

Pacific Center in Berkeley Offers Help for Those Grieving Oakland Fire Tragedy The Medical Director for Alameda County Behavioral Health came by the Pacific Center office asking for their help because he thought perhaps half of the missing people had ties to the local queer community. “We know of one current Pacific Center client and one partner of a former intern here who are on that list, and we suspect there will be many others with ties to Pacific Center,” said Executive Director Leslie Ewing. They will have an ongoing, no cost, grief and trauma support group there every Saturday at 11 am, which started Saturday, December 12. They have committed to continue those groups throughout 2017.

If family/loved ones need a space to hold a memorial, they will provide it at no charge. “Licensed therapists who want to help at the official family support center should contact Lewing@pacificcenter.org rather than our clinical people so that they may focus on the work they must do,” Ewing added. Pacific Center for Human Growth’s mission is to provide mental health and wellness support programs for the LGBTQQI 2-Spirit communities. They are located at 2712 Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705. pacificcenter.org Congress Passes Annual Defense Bill Without Anti-LGBTQ Amendment After the U.S House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed the FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), HRC noted that the final version of the legislation did not include a House-passed provision that would have dramatically expanded religious discrimination with taxpayer funds and undermined President Obama’s executive order prohibiting LGBTQ discrimination in federal contracting. The provision—proposed by Representative Steve Russell (R-OK) under the guise of so-called “religious liberty”—had been previously included in the House version of the bill, but not in the Senate version. Conferees did not include it in the conference report. “While we won this battle, the threat to fairness and equality remains. Now is the time for all of us to double-down on our work,” stated HRC. “The next administration and members of Congress should look at the lesson learned in North Carolina, where anti-LGBTQ discrimination cost Governor McCrory his (continued on page 19)

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The Flames of Disparity

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A month in and I am still in shock. I know I am not alone in this.

As I tried to put one foot in front of the other after the election and adjust to the wobbly nature of our political landscape, another blindside hit as my fellow artists perished in a warehouse fire in Oakland. My soul deflated again as I felt the blow of the Ghost Ship Debra Walker Fire. My thoughts and prayers go out to Oakland, to our community of artists and to the friends and family of all of those who were affected by this horrific event. I did not know any of the victims personally, but many of my close friends did.

And the reality of the situation—I get it on a very personal level.

I live in an art space that started out in 1972 in much the same fashion as Ghost Ship. Developing Environments (originally Project 2) was started by a dozen or so artists that needed space to work, and likely could not afford both workspace and a place to live. They squatted in the North Mission, catty corner from another bunch of artists who were doing the same thing right across the street at Project Artaud. Both of these buildings took shape in the same way as Ghost Ship and many others in the Bay Area.

Artists gravitate here, work and live here, get educated here, and add billions of dollars every year to our area economies. They rent warehouses for art projects, and can’t afford both live and work overhead as they start out and, voila, they begin living in these warehouses.

Transgender activist Jordan Gwendolyn Davis placed a candle while activist Tracy Garza spoke at the Oakland Warehouse Fire Memorial Vigil held at Harvey Milk Plaza on Monday, December 5.

San Francisco took heed back then, in the seventies, and worked with the willing owner of the Project 2 building to bring it up to code, including varying the zoning to allow both live and work. Artaud and Project 2 artists and many others engaged in a very long process to create the live-work ordinance to accommodate Project Artaud and pave the way forward for others wanting to create space for artists. (The live work ordinance was later repealed because of land use speculations and lack of enforcement of occupancy by artists. This recommendation was made by the SF Arts Task Force in 2006. San Francisco officials realized it was escalating land costs in the industrial areas. There was not consensus to strengthen enforcement to arts uses, and it was actually resulting in increased displacement of arts uses.)

Project 2 was developed as a hybrid work space/accessory live space. Both buildings raised money to do the work and the city cooperated, evaluated, and supported these efforts to help create the path forward. It can be done. Project Artaud is owned by the members who live there as a limited equity cooperative. Project 2 (Developing Environments) has secured two successive long-term leases of the top two floors and the landlord maintains control of the ground floor. Both are healthy, active and up to current code today. We get inspected on a regular basis. Again, the help and cooperation of the city have allowed this to occur and, in the case of Developing Environments, a willing landlord made it possible.

Most landlords that rent out space to these arts uses are looking for monthto-month tenancy. They want to put something in their building to bring dollars in to cover costs while they wait for longer term solutions, i.e., a long-term leaseholder who will pay top dollar, or a future development opportunity. Without a long-term commitment, it is impossible for the artists to raise capital to do the code work, so the landlord is able to get monthto-month tenants whom they can evict without any notice.

be allowed to use safety issues as justification for permanent eviction. We need to follow through with more “carrot and stick” solutions. Programs like tax incentives and density bonuses, for example, could help. Let’s give landlords a reason to want to partner in lon- A section of the shrine constructed at Harvey Milk Plaza during the Oakland Warehouse Fire Vigil ger term solutions to make safe, vibrant art spaces.

San Francisco has curbed certain evictions via a moratorium on displacement of PDR (Production, Distribution and Repair) uses and other more sensitive uses as developments are proposed for new construction. But we need to proactively engage on this issue with the goal of saving existing spaces, and especially, saving lives.

Now more than ever, our cultural souls also need to be nourished through these trying times.

I don’t want to sound radical when I say this, but the path towards tyranny is littered with the ruins of our culture, including our arts.

Unconsciously following this path doesn’t make it any less deadly.

Being in a state of continuously waking up and being reminded of whom this country elected, of the poisonous change in the air (continued on page 19)

Honoring Those Lost, Protecting Artistic Communities and Our Renters ifornia Disaster Assistance Act funding. Earlier that morning at the Rules and Legislation Committee, my colleagues and I directed the City Administrator to return to City Council with an informational report examining ways the City can address resident displacement while addressing building safety.

These spaces do take on a life of their own, often ignoring building and fire codes completely. Building departments are overwhelmed and are not going out of their way to evict folks for use violations unless they are made aware of safety violations. If they can’t enter the building, they can’t force their way in unless they have a warrant. There is a process for getting that, but our “search and seizure” protections are important, and procedures must be followed. When does a situation of artists in a warehouse rise to priority? You have to investigate to answer that question. Clearly health and safety procedures, and rules, have to be met, but behind closed doors it is hard to know what is happening.

I know San Francisco and Oakland both value their artists and arts communities. Artists are strong threads in the weave of our lives. The challenges are vast in this economy for any of us who earn much less than the median incomes. Most artists work many jobs in addition to doing their art, and yet it is still tough to afford both work and live places. There is a huge need for these creative spaces, but the codes and financial considerations often prevent their development. Landlords are looking for shortterm building fillers while they make long-term plans.

San Francisco over the past three years has aggressively pursued paths forward for art spaces. Getting control of these arts buildings is a priority, and the city and private foundation funders have been putting a lot of financial support towards these solutions. The Kenneth Rainn Foundation and other private foundations have partnered in this goal. Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf recently announced that such efforts will be expanding to the City of Oakland. The business community needs to step up and contribute to these efforts now. We cannot succeed unless the disparity is addressed and resolved. It is incredibly important to be proactive across the Bay Area to secure these arts buildings for current and future generations.

I know the area around Ghost Ship. I worked for a bit on projects at a warehouse near there. There are many communities of artists close by.

Here in San Francisco, several spaces desperately need safety upgrades.

Hundreds of buildings are in need of code evaluation. Millions of dollars in code compliance work should be done. Our priority must be to secure these buildings. A first step would be in not allowing permanent evictions of current arts uses, even illegal ones. We took this step to protect illegal residential units and to encourage their legalization, rather than evictions. Temporary relocation will likely be necessary to make things safe, but if a landlord has been profiting from arts uses, they should not 6

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Participants in the vigil held at Harvey Milk Plaza

Out of the Closet and into City Hall Oakland City Councilmember At-Large, Rebecca Kaplan On December 2, a large fire took the lives of 36 people attending a concert in a warehouse known as “Ghost Ship” in Oakland’s Fruitvale District. The victims were artists, teachers, students, entrepreneurs, family members and friends from all walks of life—loved by many and lost too soon.

In the wake of this tragedy, community members and City of Oakland employees are mobilizing immediate and long-term relief efforts.

Last Thursday, Oakland City Council declared a Local Emergency, which makes the City eligible for Cal-

From online fundraisers, to benefits, to vigils, to government advocacy, to the dedicated hard work done by our firefighters and other responders, the community has come together to mourn this tragedy and demand that we take preventative measures to protect our friends and neighbors. Oakland has long been a haven for the artistic community, and we must ensure that it continues to be for years to come.

As we honor the lives we have lost, we must also make sure to protect our communities going forward.

The community that has been impacted by this fire includes a disproportionate number of LGBT people, and many who have struggled to find housing they can afford. For artists, teachers, and many more, housing in Oakland and the Bay Area has become increasingly out of reach. We must strengthen enforcement of renter protections, and expand the supply of affordable housing throughout the Bay Region.

Many artists and other lower-income renters are now living in fear of growing evictions. Let us come together to provide fire safety—without mass evictions. The level of fire danger at “Ghost Ship” involved very specific dangerous conditions, such as a handbuilt staircase of untreated wood, which created issues going far beyond compliance with zoning codes. Mass evictions are not the solution, and would cause further suffering to an already-hard-hit community.

Let us work together to focus inspections on life safety issues, and allow for fire safety upgrades without mass evictions, and continue to push to expand our supply of housing for all income levels. We as Bay Area residents have a moral responsibility to protect everyone in our community, so let’s make this a regional effort.

To learn more about the “Ghost Ship” Fire, including resources and opportunities to donate, please visit: http:// www2.oaklandnet.com/OAK061753 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.

Art and Mourning ( E d itor’s Note: Teacher Ly ndsey Schlax of the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts (Asawa SOTA) launched the nation’s first on-site high school LGBT course in 2015. She has resumed teaching that groundbreaking class. In this column, her students share their thoughts about LGBT-related matters, including their concerns, what they have learned in class and more.

tims dead. That night, our school also experienced a personal loss. The death of Draven McGill, a 17-yearold SOTA vocalist, impacted the lives of all of the students at Ruth Asawa School of the Arts. In class, we always talk about loss and grief in a naturally disconnected manner. Though we try, people don’t tend to be triggered sympathetically unless there is a personal connection to the loss.

The recent Ghost Ship fire in Oakland claimed the lives of two talented students from Asawa SOTA: alumnus Johnny Igaz, 34, who was a DJ known as Nackt; and the fire’s youngest victim, 17-year-old Draven McGill, who was the son of a sheriff for the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office and a student of music at the school.)

The concept of death is difficult to comprehend—if we grieved for all tragedies to the same depth that we grieved for personal ones, it would be impossible for us to function in daily life. However, this isn’t a reason for a person not to allow an impersonal death to impact them. It’s a touchy subject, and it may potentially still be too fresh for any kind of reflection to be made, but when a great tragedy like this one impacts the community you reside in, you can’t help but contemplate.

Lyndsey Schlax: Both the Asawa SOTA community and the broader arts community have lost powerful and compelling souls this month. We have held each other close, and in our school, students have mourned and remembered and begun their healing in the only way many of us know how—through art. This week, we offer you all two submissions remembering people who hold a place in our hearts and minds, connecting our understanding of loss and grief and art to the work we do in LGBTQ Studies, and reinforcing the power of telling these stories. Thank you all for holding us close at a time when our school is so very sad to have lost two of our own promising and caring artists.

Losses That Are Difficult to Comprehend Student, Grade 12 This month has been marked for many by the tragic Oakland warehouse fire, which left a total of 36 vic-

I think about the lives lost around us a great deal. There are tragedies happening all around, and it’s difficult to comprehend. A great deal of pain has been suffered by the LGBTQ community. For example, the HIV/AIDS crisis, the ongoing murders among the transgender community, and the shooting of an LGBTQ friendly nightclub in Orlando left the public speechless. Our first response is to grieve and grow. The total approximate death count of the HIV/ AIDS epidemic is currently about 6,400,000 people. Around 26 murders of members of the transgender community occurred in 2016 alone.

There were 49 victims in the Orlando shooting. To us, these are all tragic, shocking statistics. To others, these are lives, personalities, dreams, ambi-

Draven McGill

tions, individuals, influences, brothers, sisters, lovers, mothers, fathers, and friends lost.

During a time like this, when there are so many tragedies occurring in the world, as painful as it may be for all who are involved, it is important to acknowledge the full life that was lost rather than the number on the death Draven McGill count. The outcome of these events is not just numbers on a page, or pictures on the news. We have to feel the significance of it all and support one another in the commun it ies t hat we are involved in to even begin to comprehend t he lives and deaths of those lost.

The Face Behind the Portrait Student, Grade 12 Growing up as the child of an artist, I was exposed to numerous museums. Such experiences strongly connected me to the art of many artists whose works I have read about and seen over the years. While I became infatuated with the works of these artists, I almost completely neglected their personal information, such as their sexual orientation and how it affected their work. While I do not think that an artist’s personality, sexual orientation, race, etc. should always be viewed as an element in their work, I do find it important that an artist’s traits and characteristics are put into consideration when viewing their work as a whole.

Student Voices

While studying Robert Rauschenberg in my LGBTQ studies class for a project, it never crossed my mind that he’d had intimate relationships with the artists Cy Twombly and Jasper Johns. I was stunned that I was unaware of this love triangle between such famous artists whose pieces I had grown up admiring.

I think it is very important that these three artists are recognized for their role in the LGBTQ community, and how that relates to their role in the fine art community. More emphasis around these artists and their lives can be used as a powerful tool to enlighten people like me who were unaware of some of their favorite artists’ personal identity, and can let more people know of the significant accomplishments of members of the LGBTQ community.

Lyndsey Schlax has been a teacher in the San Francisco Unified School District since 2008.

She is uniquely qualified to address multiple areas of LGBT studies, having also specialized in subjects such as Modern World History, Government, Economics and U.S. Politics. She is a National Board Certified Teacher, and earned her M.A. in Teaching at the University of San Francisco.

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Fighting for Our Rights novative industries that are the envy of the world.

When it comes to LGBT rights, the president-elect’s nostalgic vision of the past doesn’t work as a roadmap forward. As activists and allies of equality, we look to the future for something better.

Assemblymember Phil Ting Most of us remain shocked by the results of the presidential election and are fearful of what changes lie ahead for our country.

During the campaign, the presidentelect consistently demonstrated his divisiveness, bigotry, and insensitivity. By winning the election, he emboldened those with hearts of hate to act out. One phenomenon speaks for itself: When was the last time the Ku Klux Klan planned a victory parade celebrating a president-elect? December 3, 2016.

The next four years will be challenging, but one thing is clear—we have a different set of values around the Bay Area and here in California. Inclusion and equality matter to us.

The rights of the LGBT community, women, immigrants, and people of color are at stake. And, we will fight for them.

The president-elect says that he seeks to make America great again. Frankly, all he needs to do is to follow California’s example, instead of fighting it. All by itself, California is among the world’s largest economies. We have the largest and most diverse immigrant population. We have the strongest laws protecting equal rights.

We invest in the success and security of our people, and we are home to in-

Our nation has recently taken strides towards greater LGBT equality: the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell; marriage equality; protections for transgender employees who work in the federal government; and federal recognition of gender identity as a protected class for hate crimes. This is all wonderful progress, but it pales in comparison to the protections we have in place for LGBT people here in California.

We don’t know what this presidency will mean for LGBT Americans.

While he has acknowledged that marriage equality is the law of the land, the party platform of the Republican majority in Congress specifically seeks to eliminate it, and those he has picked for his cabinet are fierce opponents of LGBT equality.

These uncertain times make me proud to be a Californian and grateful to champion laws that strengthen LGBT rights in our state. Even before the election results came in, we enacted many new state laws to protect LGBT rights and they take effect next year.

Single-user restrooms will be universally accessible to all genders.

State-funded travel will be restricted to states that have enacted laws to void or repeal protections for LGBT people.

Parents who conceive their children through surrogacy will have new legal protections. (continued on page 19)

Survivors of Pulse Nightclub Tragedy Visit San Francisco Photos courtesy of Sister Merry Peter

Survivors of the Pulse Nightclub t ragedy and their families visited San Francisco last week and joined forces with the Brady Campa ig n to Prevent Gun Violence, to share their experience and encourage the LGBTQ community to come together to prevent gun violence.

Survivors and family members with U.S. Coast Guard staff for the

Survivors Angel Co- 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor lon and Luis Roldan and Angel’s mom, Mirta Rodriguez, joined Brady Campaign National President, Dan Gross, at LinkedIn, where their message was live-streamed to LinkedIn employees worldwide. Denise Colon, Angel’s sister, also spoke about returning from her Army deployment only to be confronted by the senseless violence in Orlando.

At the Oakland Alameda Coast Guard base, the survivors and their families joined in ceremonies marking the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, sharing their hopes to promote peace in our communities. At San Francisco City Hall, fellow survivor Ilka Reyes, and Mr. & Mrs. Alvear, who lost their daughter Amanda at Pulse, joined the group in lighting the Rainbow World Fund Tree of Hope.

All would like to deepen the links between San Francisco and Orlando, and find ways to collaborate on anti-violence measures and sensible gun control legislation.

Survivor Angel Colon with Mayra Alvear, whose daughter Amanda was a victim of the Pulse tragedy

If you are interested in having the Pulse Survivors and their families work with you and your community, please contact: Shikha Hamilton, National Chapter Management & Development Pacific Coast Regional Manager, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence 650-863-3360 or shamilton@bradymail.org 8

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Distractions Roland Schembari and Bill Hartman, Co-Founders Randy Alfred, Founding News Editor 1978 Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011

in common is that they tend to diminish self-awareness. They’re really about hiding from inner experience.

The most obvious mind-altering distractions are alcohol and drugs, but there are many others, such as:

2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-601-2113

1. Food: overeating in search of comfort

525 Bellevue Avenue Oakland CA 94610

2. Sex: avoiding painful feelings through compulsive sexual behavior

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

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Examined Life Tom Moon, MFT “The unexamined life is not worth living.” That saying, which Plato attributed to Socrates, succinctly expresses the basic value underlying psychotherapy and most other forms of personal exploration—the idea that self-knowledge is a fundamental value in human life.

A ll methods of self-understanding, from western psychotherapy to eastern paths of spiritual self-inquiry, teach that we have to spend time alone with ourselves in order to attain greater awareness. But most of us don’t want to know ourselves. What we really want is to feel good.

We spend an amazing amount of time immersed in mood-altering and mind-numbing entertainments, habits, and distractions whose purpose is to increase comfort and to medicate anxiety and other negative emotions. What all of these activities have

3. Television: watching hours of TV every day 4. Computer: spending hours every day on social media, surfing the net, etc.

5. Workaholism: constantly working to exhaustion; inability to rest or take time off 6. Exercise: compulsively exercising as a way of avoiding emotional pain 7. Adrenaline: addiction to the rush of frequent and compulsive risk-taking 8. Shopping: seeking comfort in acquiring things 9. Religion: addiction to spiritual ideas and practices to get away from feelings of fear and uncertainty 10. Cleaning: constantly cleaning to avoid anxiety or discomfort 11. Rage: avoiding fear or feelings of powerlessness through inappropriate anger 12. Caffeine: staying buzzed all day on high octane coffee to diminish

awareness of unhappiness or depression Modern technology provides us with an unprecedented number of opportunities for diversion and self-soothing, but the sad irony is that they’ve also made us the most restless generation that has ever existed. Millions of us are completely incapable of simply being alone and quiet with ourselves.

This shows up most clearly in sleep problems. Today, in our already sleep deprived culture, millions suffer from chronic insomnia. It’s estimated that in 1900, the average American got about 10 hours of sleep per day, probably because people didn’t have much to do after dark. Not anymore.

When I explore insomnia with patients, I usually find that they’re in the habit of immersing themselves in media stimulation right up until they go to bed. They watch the late news or late night talk shows, listen to music, play computer games, hang out on social media—or several of these at once. Then, in a hyper-stimulated state, they turn off the lights, climb into bed, and discover that they’re too wired to go to sleep. An obvious solution would be just to turn off all media at least a half hour before bed, but many people find that advice impossible to follow, because the absence of stimulation makes them too uncomfortable.

I believe that our collective need for more intense distracting stimuli is progressing, exactly the way that ad-

dictions progress. Many people can’t watch a film from the ‘40s or ‘50s, for instance, because they seem to move at a snail’s pace compared to the roller coaster rides of current popular movies. More and more of the people I talk with are in such a restless, jumpy state that they give me the impression they’ve been at a heavy metal concert for the past twenty years.

Anyone interested in pursuing a path of personal growth and greater awareness must first stop running from their inner experience, and that requires that they confront the distractions that obstruct their paths. It isn’t necessary to get rid of all distractions, but it’s important to have some time free of them. Spending time in nature is one easy way to return to more natural rhythms; regular hikes or a wilderness backpacking trip can do much to cool down an overactive nervous system. Some people find it useful to practice periodic “media fasts” from all electronic stimuli.

Self-knowledge confers subtle satisfactions: greater freedom from selfdeception, confusion and anxiety; calm self-acceptance; comfort in one’s own skin; independence of thought and action. But this maturity comes only to those who can examine their discomforts and anxieties instead of running from them.

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

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Let’s Make a Deal

Alex Randolph, Trustee City College of San Francisco Donald Trump is going to be President. That is something most humans living on this earth, including he himself, probably never thought would happen. Yet here it is. In my last column, I wrote about the trip my husband and I took across America. One of the many takeaways from my experience seeing middle America and almost a dozen red states was this sense of hopelessness and anger. After eight years of Republican obstructionism, conspiracy theories about President Obama, and a campaign to destroy his Presidency, we are at a point where the country is now more divided than ever before. Election night left me in a state of sadness and despair.

There is no way to really know yet what Trump’s victory and his goal to “Make America Great Again” means to us here in San Francisco. My sense is that, at least locally and in California, we will be ok. But the people living in the rest of the country and even world might not. He is and his advisors have already talked about reversing hard-fought rights for the LGBT community. He is determined to deport millions of undocumented residents, have Muslims register, ignore climate change, and the bad list of things goes on and on and on.

I really don’t want to think about it.

I don’t want to watch the news anymore. I don’t want to hear about any of his latest tweets. I don’t want to read the names of his disastrous Cabinet appointees. I want to put up a big

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX RANDOLPH

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

Trustee Alex Randolph with Georgia House Representative-Elect Sam Park, Assemblymember Evan Low, and Hacienda La Puente School Board Trustee Anthony Duarte.

pink wall and bunker up the next four years.

However, seceding from the nation or isolating ourselves from the rest of the world is just not an option. On November 14, I joined my fellow City College Trustees at San Francisco City Hall for the #StandUpAsOne Unity Rally to celebrate our diversity and stand up against hate. It was great to see all of the leaders and other locals come together and make a statement to protect San Francisco as a sanctuary city. For many of us, San Francisco has always been that sanctuary and safe place for us to be ourselves. We are a city that believes that equal work deserves equal pay, and where you are welcomed no matter your race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identify, religion, or income.

Our community does not “tolerate” diversity; we celebrate it.

Recently I was excited to attend the Victory Institute’s 2016 LGBT Leader’s Conference in Washington, D.C., the largest gathering of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender elected and appointed officials in the world.

It was a perfect medicine for my postelection depression. It left me energized for the fight ahead. President and CEO Aisha Moodie-Mills said it best: “Our community is strongest when our backs are up to the wall and the wind is flying into our face!”

I was reminded of the many bright spots concerning our incredibly diverse community from the past year.

For example, Sam Park became the first openly gay Korean to be elected to the state house in red Georgia. The anti-LGBT Governor in North Carolina, Pat McCrory, lost his re-election. More importantly, despite victories for candidates associated with Donald Trump, 86 LGBT and Vic-

tory Fund-endorsed candidates won their elections (yours truly included).

Since Donald Trump loves to make deals, let’s make one he can’t ignore.

Let San Francisco and the LGBT community produce the biggest export of love, compassion, relentless activism, and accountability to the rule of law. If there is one community that knows how to fight and organize it is us. I will not retreat into my San Francisco bubble and safe place, but rather will help to build a big pink wall of resistance, and will make Donald Trump pay for it. Are you with me?

Alex Randolph is a Trustee for City College of San Francisco. He previously served in President Obama’s administration and as an LGBT advisor for Mayor Newsom. He lives in the Castro with his partner Trevor. Follow him on social media: www.twitter.com/adrandolph & www.facebook.com/ AlexDRandolph

GLBT Fortnight in Review

By Ann Rostow It’s hard to believe that another year has come and gone, and even harder to believe the shocking turn of events that befell us, and continue to befall us, in its waning weeks. I was just trying to offer an optimistic silver lining, but I can’t seem to come up with anything. “It’s only four years” doesn’t really cheer us up now, does it? I suppose we can look forward to the midterms. Maybe.

Look. Previous generations of Americans have sur v ived revolut ion, crossed the wilderness and fought a civil war, plus two world wars abroad.

Surely we can survive a few years of Trump.

Meanwhile, it’s the holiday season!

Football, airports, candy, shopping malls, good movies, Cognac and our yearly news quiz.

Here we go: Q1. Jack Phillips, Barronelle Stutzman and Melissa K lein won headlines for: a) Winning state legislative races as openly gay candidates b) Litigating their right to refuse to bake cakes for gay couples c) Refusing to use the restroom of their birth gender in North Carolina d) Contesting custody of a child born to Klein and Stutzman using Phillips’ sperm donation e) Gay bashing a couple of men in downtown Philadelphia Q2. Transgender job bias plaintiffs technically have a better legal position than gays under federal law because: a) They may be heterosexual b) Sexual stereotyping has already been outlawed by the High Court c) Being gay is a behavior, while being trans is an identity d) There are many more anti-gay precedents than anti-trans precedents Q3. The biggest threat to the GL BT com mun it y from t he election of Trump is: a) The possibility of antigay Mike Pence pulling the strings or becoming president b) The possibility of a conservative majority on the High Court c) The reversal of pro-gay attitudes in cabinet departments and federal agencies d) The destruction of the known universe Q4. One Million Moms got their knickers in a twist over: a) Proctor & Gambles’ announcement that Mr. Clean “might” be gay b) A civic award bestowed on gay pandas, Micky and Silver, by the city of Richmond, Virginia c) A jewelry commercial that included two lesbians getting married d) A rainbow chip pride packaging promotion by Frito-Lay Q5. Trump said the anti-trans North Carolina law, HB2: a) Was a “self-inflicted wound” b) Did not go far enough c) Was nothing more than “common sense” d) Was a matter of state policy and should be left alone e) Was “no big deal” Q6. Gavin Grimm is: a) A transgender teen f ighting for bathroom access in his Virginia high school b) An Indiana teacher arguing a workplace bias case before the full 7th Circuit c) An intersex Lambda Legal client trying to obtain a passport without selecting male or female on the application

d) A high school football player charged with 69 misdemeanors for exposing his genitals in his yearbook’s team photo (From a back row) Q7. In Australia: a) The parliament voted for a marriage equality referendum, which will take place in early 2017 b) The parliament voted against a referendum, but planned a free vote on marriage equality in early 2017 c) The parliament voted for both a referendum and planned a free vote on marriage equality d) The parliament delayed marriage votes of all sorts e) The parliament voted against a referendum, but has not scheduled a free vote f ) No one cares what these guys do because it’s too confusing and they can’t manage to pass equality, even though majorities are in support and the country remains a decade or two behind the rest of the world Q8. The Michigan legislature reinstated its sodomy law because: a) Lawmakers wanted to make a symbolic antigay statement b) It was the only practical way to ban bestiality c) The legislative clerk made a typing error in the official record d) State officials were planning a test case against Lawrence v Texas Q9. Which of these events did not happen in 2016: a) Clinton said she would release government files on extraterrestrial aliens if elected b) Scientists said men might someday be able to give birth without women c) High school kids started drinking hand sanitizer to get high d) GLBT physicists at the Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland were subjected to antigay emails and bullying at work e) The Republican governor of South Dakota vetoed an anti-trans law after meeting with transgender men and women f ) Two lesbian women crashed their cars on a deserted highway in Nevada and realized while exchanging information that they had both had affairs with ex-lovers of the same person Q10. Our country has reason for optimism because: a) The arc of the moral universe bends towards justice b) We are hitting rock bottom and have only one way to go from here c) The non-Trump majority will grow as it faces adversity d) We have alcohol e) Our national institutions are strong and will survive a few years of chaos Answers: Q1: b) Phillips has petitioned the High Court. Stutzman is waiting for a ruling from the Washington Supreme Court. Klein is (reportedly) broke.

Q2: b) The High Court’s 1989 ruling in Price Waterhouse v Hopkins made it illegal to discriminate based on gender norms. Courts have started to put the precedent to work in the last decade or so.

Q3: c) All of the above are threats, but the biggest threat is behind the scenes in the attitudes of the Justice Department, the Department of Education and their respective agencies, moving from strongly pro-equality to strongly antigay. The implications will be insidious. d) is hyperbole. Honestly.

Q4: c) It was Zales. For the record, P&G says Mr. Clean is not gay. He was found on a farm as a baby, and as (continued on page 19) S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES DEC EM BER 15, 2016

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social services for LGBT adults over the age of 50. http://www.thecentersd. org/programs/seniorservices/?referrer=http://search. aol.com/aol/search?enabled_ terms=&q=LGBT%20senior%20 services Sacramento

Aging in Community Dr. Marcy Adelman After the President-elect takes office, we will need to be prepared for an assault on federal programs that benefit elders and people living with disabilities. We can expect the Republicans will attempt to privatize Social Security and overhaul and reduce Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare, unlike Medicaid is not income limited. It is a federally administered and funded health insurance program for people over 65 and for some people with disabilities. Medicaid funding is the major source of public funding for longterm senior services and for assisting low income elders and people with disabilities to stay in their homes and communities.

While it is important to support the national organizations and politicians that are advocating and fighting to keep these programs intact— National Committee to Preserve Socia l Secur it y a nd Med ica re, House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senators Elizabeth Warren, Chuck Schumar and Bernie Sanders—it is also important this holiday season to remember local LGBT senior serving community non-profits that are on the front lines of senior service delivery.

San Francisco Openhouse is the only San Francisco non-profit exclusively serving the LGBT senior community. Openhouse provides health and wellness programs, services to reduce isolation, monthly lunches, educational classes, housing, housing counseling, resource and community events and LGBT senior cultural competency training. This year, Openhouse will have completed phase one of creating a hub of affordable LGBT affirming senior housing and services. When completed, there will be 119 apartments, Openhouse service space and 8000 square feet of activity space for LGBT elders citywide. http://openhouse-sf.org/ East Bay Lavender Seniors of the East Bay provides support groups, community engagement programs, advocacy, education seminars, and monthly lunches in partnership with Life Eldercare. http://lavenderseniors.org Los Angeles The LGBT Center’s Senior Service Department offers a wide range of community building programs and activities, health and wellness services. It just recently developed an intergenerational affordable housing project. https://lalgbtcenter.org/social-service-and-housing/senior San Diego The San Diego LGBT Community Center’s Senior Services offers workshops, classes, monthly community meals and activities. Senior Services provides referrals to health care and

The Sacramento LGBT Community Center serves a 9-county area with social, arts, and support programs for youths, seniors, veterans, and the community at large. The center provides social opportunities and elder support groups. http://saccenter.org/ With the recent changes in Washington and inevitable attempts at cutting funding, these LGBT senior serving programs will need your help more than ever. Support your local senior serving non-profit with a generous year end gift to ensure that they can continue to advocate, protect and serve their communities.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

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.

LOCAL LGBT RESOURCES FOR SENIORS • Openhouse: 415-296-8995 openhouse-sf.org/ • Family Caregiver Alliance: 415-434-3388 www.caregiver.org • Institute on Aging: 415-7504111, www.ioaging.org/ • National Resource Center on LGBT Aging www.lgbtagingcenter.org/ • Project Open Hand San Francisco: Nutrition Services, 415-447-2300 www.openhand.org/ • SAGE: 212-741-2247 www.sageusa.org/about/ • Shanti Project, Inc: HIV Services and Life Threatening Illnesses, 415-674-4700 www.shanti.org/ Alzheimer’s Association Programs and Services:

Bereavement and the LGBTQ Community The holidays can be a difficult time for those who are grieving. We sat down with Michelle Miller, M.A., MFTI, who is a bereavement counseling intern at Hospice by the Bay, to talk about grief and her experience as a bereavement counselor.

San Francisco Bay Times: What is it about the holidays that make grief more intense?

Michelle Miller: For many of us, the holiday season brings up memories of special times with loved ones whom we have lost, so it’s natural that we may grieve more than other times of the year. The most helpful way to cope with these feelings is not to suppress them, but to embrace them— making a special visit to the cemetery, lighting a candle at home, or visiting a place that was special to your loved one.

San Francisco Bay Times: Do you think members of our LGBTQ community have special bereavement issues or needs?

Michelle Miller: Coping with loss is hard for everyone, and we all grieve in different ways. For members of the LGBTQ community, the grieving process can present some unique challenges.

Although people are more accepting of our lifestyle than in the past, and although same sex marriage is now legal, we still experience stigma. Imagine losing a partner of 25 years and not being acknowledged by your partners’ biological family—being left out of end-of-life decision-making or excluded from planning and attending the funeral. Or, having to grieve in secrecy because you haven’t come out. Grieving in isolation can be devastating.

There can also be a tremendous impact on LGBTQ families. Even though families with two moms or two dads are legally equal, marginalization still exists. For example, I’ve been married for a while now, and straight people often still refer to my wife as my “partner” or “special friend.” If a family or relationship is not held with the same value as a “traditional” one, this can cause disenfranchisement for both those who are grieving and those supporting them.

What’s the answer? Have a discussion about your end-oflife preferences with your partner or spouse—before you get ill; document it in an Advance Directive so that wishes and roles are clear. If there is family discord, identify close friends as “chosen” family with whom you can be open about your grief. Hold a separate memorial service surrounded by your support system. Seek outside professional LGBTQ-friendly support, either individual counseling or a support group; this is particularly important for those who have a limited support system or are not fully out. Local LGBTQ resource centers, such as the San Francisco LGBTQ Community Center and The Spahr Center in Marin, can be of support as well.

San Francisco Bay Times: What bereavement resources are available? How does someone find resources sensitive to the LGBTQ community?

Michelle Miller: Hospice by the Bay has a comprehensive Grief Program that is available to anyone in the community—regardless of whether or not the loved one received end-of-life care from us. We provide bereavement counseling to individuals and families, ongoing support groups, Camp Erin for grieving youth, and annual Services of Remembrance. We also provide community crisis outreach and grief education, often a critical need when a death impacts a school or workplace.

If you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are seeking help, Hospice by the Bay provides a safe place. We welcome everyone, honor diversity, and understand that you may have unique needs. Whether it’s Hospice by the Bay or another professional, look for someone who is involved with the LGBTQ community. You may want to interview them ahead of time to ascertain their sensitivity.

San Francisco Bay Times: Why did you become a bereavement counselor? Is it difficult to do this kind of work?

Michelle Miller: I’ve experienced many profound losses in my own life. Most significantly, in 2001, my eight-yearold daughter suddenly died. I’ve also lost a partner due to health issues and a brother to suicide, and went through a painful divorce. As part of my healing process, I became a peer grief counselor. That experience helped me to find

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOSPICE BY THE BAY

California LGBT Senior Services on the Front Lines

Michelle Miller

purpose again and to realize that I wanted do something more meaningful. So, at age 48, I began a new journey. Previously a supervisor at REI and a life coach, I returned to school for a Masters in Counseling Psychology and found my calling—grief work.

In helping others, I have found my own measure of personal healing. Grief is a landscape that I am personally familiar with, and I find healing in helping others who must navigate this difficult path. I like to think I hold a “lantern of light” to assist others on their journey.

Grief is not something you get over; it is something you go through and live with.

San Francisco Bay Times: W hat if someone is interested in becoming a bereavement counselor?

Michelle Miller: Bereavement counseling takes special training—and special people.

It’s not for everyone, but it is a calling for others. The qualifications: emotional maturity, respect for others, excellent listening skills, and that sense of “a calling.”

The need is great and we at Hospice by the Bay are looking for qualified individuals to join our bereavement team. Interns start with participation in our paid, year-long, part-time Bereavement Internship Program. Candidates must have a master’s degree in mental health, counseling, psychology, or social work, and be registered as an intern with the Board of Behavioral Sciences.

I am currently an intern in the program and it’s my “dream come true.” The work is fulfilling, I have felt well supported by my supervisors and colleagues, and it’s an opportunity to give back to the community. I get to be myself and I feel appreciated. I am a proud member of Hospice by the Bay’s bereavement team! To me, Hospice by the Bay exemplifies grace and integrity in its practice of caring for those at the end of life, and in caring for those left behind.

For more information about Hospice by the Bay, including its bereavement services, visit www.hospicebythebay.org or call 415-927-2273. For information about the Bereavement Internship Program, email sohri@hbtb.org

• 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-2723900, www.alz.org/norcal/; Online Community: www.alzheimersblog.org/lgbt-forum • Memory Clinic, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center: 408-5306900, mydoctor.kaiserpermanente.org/ncal/facilities/region/santaclara/area_master/ departments/memoryclinic/ index.jsp

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Deck the Halls of Schools, Workplaces and Courts with LGBT Equality

6/26 and Beyond John Lewis & Stuart Gaffney Whenever we hear the ubiquitous holiday music that pervades the airwaves this time of year, we can’t help but want to sing along—not with the traditional lyrics—but with the new and improved words that Marriage Equality USA wrote and performed for shoppers at this time each year.

For example, to the tune of Jingle Bells, we sang: “Equal rights, equal rights, equal all the way! Oh what fun it is to sing for equal rights today!” We followed it up with: “Deck the Halls with marriage equality!

‘Tis the season for equality! Don we now our gay apparel … .” And we belted out many others, hoping to bring a smile to people’s faces while spreading a message of the importance of love, dignity and equality under the law.

This year ‘tis the season for workplace and transgender student equality as LGBT people will don their gay apparel and argue for these essential rights in five key federal cases over this year’s holidays. These cases could result in rulings of nationwide scope next year or the year following. It’s time for our entire community, not just the parties and their lawyers, to be engaged in these cases that could shape LGBT rights for decades.

As we have discussed in earlier columns, transgender teen Gav in Grimm’s case to be able to use the school restroom that matches his gender is being briefed before the United States Supreme Court right now for hearing sometime in early 2017. That case could have a major impact on the rights of transgender people all across the country. Four other cases asserting that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation as unlawful sex discrimination are now before Federal Courts of Appeals and could easily go to the U.S. Supreme Court later next year.

Recently, Lambda Legal argued before the 7th Circuit in Chicago on behalf of Kimberly Hively, a lesbi-

an who asserts that her employer, Ivy Tech Community College, terminated her as a part-time adjunct professor after 14 years of service because of her sexual orientation. In court papers, Hively explains that she “never had a negative evaluation,” but that she applied for six different full-time positions for which she had all the qualifications and never even got an interview. Seven months after she filed a discrimination complaint against the college with the EEOC, the school let her go. After the recent argument before the 7th Circuit, legal observers believe a favorable outcome is likely.

In another case, Lambda Legal is arguing before the 11th Circuit in Atlanta on behalf of Jameka Evans, a lesbian hospital worker. Jameka claims that Georgia Regional Hospital fired her because she publicly identified as a lesbian, did not “carry [her]self in a traditional woman manner,” dressed in traditionally male clothing, e.g., “(male uniform, low male haircut, shoes, etc.),” and did not otherwise “conform” to “gender stereotypes associated with women.”

Just after the New Year, the 2nd Circuit in New York will hear the case of Donald Zara, a gay skydiving teacher who asserted that he was fired from his job for being openly gay.

Two weeks later, the same court will hear the case of Matthew Christiansen, an openly gay creative director at the international advertising firm DDB Worldwide Communications Group. The complaint alleges he suffers from PTSD and severe anxiety and depression because of horrific anti-gay abuse from his boss. The district judge concluded that the alleged conduct, which included his boss drawing lewd pictures of Matthew on an office whiteboard and circulating to the office and via Facebook a movie poster he altered with Matthew’s “head on the body of a bikini-clad woman ‘in the gay sexual receiving position’” was “by any metric … reprehensible.”

For years, many courts have held that Title VII does not prohibit anti-gay conduct such as that alleged in these cases because Congress made no explicit reference to sexual orientation back in 1964 when it outlawed sex discrimination. Indeed, the district judge in Matthew’s case stated that prior 2nd Circuit precedent required her to dismiss his case despite his allegations of his boss’ egregious behavior. The enormous gains in public understanding of the lives of LGBT people, the powerful landmark marriage equality decisions, and a recent EEOC ruling applying Title VII to sexual orientation are

causing courts now to openly question the soundness and validity of earlier decisions. The district judge in her opinion explicitly asked the 2nd Circuit to reconsider its prior decision.

The United States Supreme Court has never addressed the issue of whether employers treating employees unfavorably because of their sexual orientation constitutes sex discrimination under Title VII. However, the Court has held that Title VII’s plain wording outlaws any form of mistreatment of an employee based on sex, regardless of whether Congress actually considered the particular circumstances back in 1964. The Court has explained that Title VII‘s prohibition on sex discrimination is broad, encompassing “the entire spectrum of disparate treatment of men and women resulting from sex stereotypes.” Title VII pertains to all employer “treatment of a person in a manner which but for that person’s sex would be different.”

By its plain terms, the crux of sexual orientation discrimination—firing a woman who dates another woman, but not firing a man who dates a woman—is sex discrimination pure and simple. One recent court described the assumption that a woman will be romantically attracted to a man to be “the quintessential gender stereotype.” We look to these appellate courts and subsequently the U.S. Supreme Court to come to the same conclusion.

During the marriage equality struggle, we sang “We Wish for Marriage Equality” to the tune of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” Later in the carol, instead of demanding “figgy pudding” as they did back in 1935 when the song was written, we demanded marriage licenses and vowed “we won’t go until we get them.” This holiday season our community must commit that we won’t go until we get workplace and transgender student equality. With our community’s enormous talent, resources, and commitment to living our lives freely and openly, we know that together we can.

You can follow updates on all of these cases through Equality Case Files’ Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/EqualityCaseFiles/ 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 samesex marriage legal nationwide.

San Francisco Bay Times Holiday Party with SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band Photos by Paul Margolis Caroling with the brass and wind ensemble, posing for selfies with Santa under the 65-foot decorated tree, and sharing toasts to the holidays were highlights of the San Francisco Bay Times Holiday Party. Hosted by Dr. Jerry Goldstein and Tom Taylor and held in conjunction with the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band, the party included an array of attendees. SFBT contributors, SFLGFB band members and friends, civic and community leaders and community allies from as far away as Sonoma County came to enjoy the fun. Thanks to our friends at Extreme Pizza, NAPA Cellars and Robert Mondavi Wines for supporting the event.

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Reindeer Games

THE HOLIDAYS CAN BE A LONELY TIME. We are here to listen.

The holidays can just wear you out. Take heart, they’ll be over soon enough.

Even holiday music can get old really quickly—like two days after Halloween (but don’t tell anyone I said that). We are always searching for something fresh or a new way to tell the same stories and tales.

Dr. Tim Seelig

R

udolph, the red nose reindeer, was a pretty ordinary reindeer; at least as far as flying reindeer go. He had two eyes, two ears, four feet, and a soft, furry brown coat.

There was really only one small thing that was unusual about Rudolph. Somehow, that one thing was enough to make him different from all the rest, peculiar, odd … queer, if you will. He had a very shiny nose.

At first, he did a good job keeping it hidden. He even managed to convince himself that his nose wasn’t really much different than anyone else’s. Rudolph hoped it was just a stage and he would soon outgrow it and be just like all the others with a nice wet, brown nose. He tried to cover it up with make-up so no one would notice he was different.

But it was still shiny. Nothing seemed to help.

The other reindeer laughed and called him names. They never let poor Rudolph join in any reindeer games. He was desperate to fit in. He even went to a plastic surgeon to see about getting it fixed.

Not even nose grafts could dim the bright red glow. Things just got worse.

Rudolph was misunderstood, ostracized, and ridiculed by people, even his family. Rudolph’s father was so embarrassed, he worked very hard to hide his son’s peculiarity.

Rudolph went to see his pastor for counseling. Surely he had not been created this way—perhaps there had been a mistake? He wanted desperately to be like the other reindeer. He just wanted to fit in.

Maybe he should get more therapy.

There were rumors that others had been “cured” of his same malady.

One day, Rudolph came to his end.

He simply gave up trying to be something he was not. Through his long process, he finally accepted the fact that, no matter what he did, his nose would always make him different from the other reindeer. He would just have to play with the hand—or hoof—that life had dealt to him.

Dejected and rejected, Rudolph moved away from home—to a city much larger than the North Pole.

To his delight, Rudolph discov-

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

TLC: Tears, Laughs and Conversation

Many years ago, while living in Dallas, I heard a sermon by Rev. Michael Piazza, the pastor of the Cathedral of Hope.

I was so smitten with his twist on this beloved story that I asked him if I could adopt and adapt it. He said “yes,” and it’s been one of my favorites ever since. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. You may see yourself in it as well.

ered that he was not the only reindeer in the world that was different! He wasn’t the only reindeer with a red nose! He found that being among those like him, his nose shined even brighter—it actually flamed! Rudolph began to embrace his difference. He found a place where others like him were safe and loved.

Then one day, a foggy day, someone very special saw Rudolph and his wonderful nose. He saw him just the way he was and chose him for a very special task—not in spite of, but because of his uniqueness. It was that very uniqueness that made him special and useful.

His glowing nose became the very thing that set him apart and allowed him to be the one that was chosen—among thousands of applicants.

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Rudolph discovered an important lesson: the one who is scorned or disrespected or despised often becomes the source of light for others to follow when living a life of authenticity.

Because of this, Rudolph has, indeed, gone down in history.

THE END

It is a great time of year to take a look back and take stock of the steps along our own path. Those of us in the LGBTQ community can look at the thing that makes us “different” with pride and, yes, holiday joy! It is our difference that draws us together. It’s what makes us special. And, by George, we are already going down in history—and proud of it.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year. May your nose shine bright every single day!

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

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus’ Babes in Joyland

COURTESY OF SFGMC

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS COURTESY OF SFGMC

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

COURTESY OF SFGMC

COURTESY OF SFGMC

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Timothy Seelig, presented a series of concerts at the Nourse Theater on Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10. With the theme “Babes in Joyland,” the program included guest artist Marnie Breckenridge as well as songs presented by the Chorus’ ensemble groups. The Chorus concludes its Holiday Season schedule with three upcoming “Home for the Holidays” performances, with special guest Melody Moore, at the Castro Theatre on Saturday, December 24, at 5, 7 and 9 pm. sfgmc.org

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Madeline Gleason and the Poetry of San Francisco Duncan had studied at the University of California, Berkeley, during the 1930s, but dropped out in 1938.

He returned to the campus in 1945, where he met Jack Spicer and Robin Blaser, two aspiring gay poets. The three men shared so many avantgarde ideas about what poetry should be that they became a new literary movement, soon known as the Berkeley Renaissance.

Faces from Our LGBT Past Dr. Bill Lipsky Across her long creative career, Madeline Gleason was a motivating inf luence and major champion of new poets and poetry of the Bay Area. By the time her own first book, titled simply Poems, was published in 1944, she was deeply enfolded in the local literary potpourri.

Gleason was an avid supporter of the Berkeley Renaissance poets— and many other local poets. To present them to a wider audience, she organized San Francisco’s Festival of Modern Poetry in 1947, the first public celebration of poetry in the United States. Over two evenings at the Lucien Labaudt Gallery on Gough Street, twelve Bay Area poets read from their work, sometimes accompanied by music. For many of the participants, it was their first important recognition.

Because of Gleason’s festival, San Francisco acquired a reputation as a Gleason was especia lmajor center of modern, exly close to the poet Robert perimental American poetry.

Duncan. The same year GleaIn addition to Spicer, Blaser son published Poems, his essay, Robert and Duncan, of course, Duncan “The Homosexual in Society,” Muriel Rukeyser, not appeared in Dwight Macdonald’s yet out, was there, as journal Politics. During an era when well as James Broughton, homosexuality was diagnosed as a who later became a memmental disorder, Duncan argued sim- ber of the Radical Faerply that “a man’s sexuality is a nat- ies and then Sister Serural factor in a biological economy monetta of the Sisters of larger and deeper than his own hu- Perpetual Indulgence. man will.” A pioneering and still fundamental document of gay liberation, it influenced gay and lesbian rights groups from the Homophile ‘50s until the activist ‘70s and ‘80s.

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creative partner for 37 years—and the painter Harry Jacobus opened the King Ubu Gallery for alternative art in what had been an auto repair shop on Fillmore Street i n Sa n Fr a nc i s co. Two years later Spicer took over the space, renaming it the Six Gallery.

Madeline Gleason

The Berkeley Renaissance metamor phosed into the broader San Francisco Renaissance and t hen the Beat Generation of the 1950s.

James Broughton None was ever a single aesthetic or literary movement. They were loose associations of overlapping creative communities, made up of innovating minds who came to San Francisco looking for, and writing about, bohemian life in a world that was becoming increasingly conventional, conformist, and intellectually repressive.

The LGBT poets, however, often wrote of their loves and lives, ideals and realities denied and rejected by the mainstream culture.

The Festival was a tremendous success. Not only aspiring Robin Gleason continued to be influenpoets, but also painters, authors Blaser tial within each new movement, and playwrights from all over the however. In 1952 Duncan, the country began moving to the city. artist Jess Collins—his loving and

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In 1955 five young poets, including Allen Ginsberg, until then mostly unknown beyond a close community of friends and writers, gathered at the Six Gallery to present selections from their latest works, some still in progress. The evening was transformational.

Ginsberg read “Howl,” considered by many to be the greatest poem of his generation, one of the most important poems of the 20th century. Hugely influential and highly controversial, it confirmed to the world that San Francisco, always “an oasis of civilization in the California desert,” was a true and vital center of counterculture originality.

Gleason’s efforts to support and promote new poetry and its new ideas were confirmed with The New American Poetry 1945–1960, edited by Donald Allen. The first—now classic— anthology to include San Francisco Renaissance and Beat poets, it contained many of those Gleason championed: Blaser, Duncan, Spicer, Ginsberg and Broughton. Her work also was there, one of only four women chosen.

The Six Gallery, 1957

In the late 1960s, Gleason and Mary Geer, who would be her life partner for more than 25 years, moved from North Beach to the Outer Mission. During the 1970s, she could be found on a Sunday afternoon at poetry readings at the Wild Side West, a lesbian bar in Bernal Heights. Her Collected Poems, with an introduction

by Duncan, was published in 1999, 20 years after her death.

Making poetry so prominently and publicly the center of their lives, Gleason and her colleagues guided tremendous attention to their chosen art. They truly took poetry out of the ivory towers of academia and into the coffee houses—occasionally into the parks and onto the streets—making it available to anyone who wanted to listen to their words and hear their ideas. Because of her own work, and her work on behalf of poetry and the poets of San Francisco, Gleason remains a principal figure in the poetry of modern America.

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

NEWS (continued from page 5) election. Seven in 10 voters across the nation—including 55 percent of those who voted for President-Elect Trump—support the Equality Act’s non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ people. The federal government should never be in the business of creating taxpayer-funded discrimination against LGBTQ Americans.” hrc.org New Survey Shows Need to Protect Transgender Youth from Conversion Therapy San Francisco-based National Center for Transgender Equality released the findings of the U.S. Transgender Survey, the largest survey of transgender people in the United States.

Conducted in 2015, the anonymous, online survey examines the experiences of 27,715 adults from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as three U.S. territories and U.S. military bases overseas. Among the findings is that 18%—nearly one in five—of transgender people who had contact with a medical professional about their gender identity reported that the professional tried to stop them from being transgender.

Transgender people who had these negative experiences were also more likely to experience psychological distress, to have attempted suicide, run away from home, been homeless, and have engaged in sex work than those who did not have the experience. The survey also found that 14% of transgender individuals— more than one in 10—who disclosed their transgender identity to their family were sent to a professional to stop them from being transgender.

NCLRights.org North Carolina “Bathroom Governor” Pat McCrory Reluctantly Concedes to Democrat Roy Cooper North Carolina Republican Gov. Pat McCrory conceded the gubernatorial race to Democrat Roy Cooper in a stunning outcome for an election that held few bright spots for Democrats.

Having previously protested the votes in 50 counties, ultimately, in a video message, McCrory said, “Despite continued questions that should be answered regarding the voting process, I personally believe that the ma-

jority of our citizens have spoken and we now should do everything we can to support the 75th governor of North Carolina, Roy Cooper.” McCrory’s defeat was first and foremost a referendum on the disastrous antiLGBTQ law he signed into law earlier this year that made North Carolina a pariah to business and sporting events alike. Within weeks of McCrory signing the law, PayPal announced that it was scrapping a planned expansion into the state, providing the first in a string of perpetually negative headlines for the Tar Heel State throughout the rest of the year. dailykos.com Openly Gay George Takei Inducted into California Hall of Fame George Takei and seven others were inducted into the California Museum’s California Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Sacramento. Takei— a second-generation Californian best known for his activism and acting, including the roles of Lt. Hikaru Sulu in Star Trek and Sam Kimura in Allegiance—joins 96 other individuals, whom the California Museum calls “legendary people who embody California’s innovative spirit and have made their mark on history.” In addition to acting, Takei has advocated for LGBTQ issues, been involved in politics, and chairs the council of governors at East West Players.

He also developed the musical Allegiance, which was based on his experience in a Japanese-American incarceration camp during World War II. “To be inducted to join the inspiring trail blazers in the arts, industry, academia, sports and political affairs is an honor beyond words,” Takei said in a statement. nbcnews.com Donald Trump Tweets New Attack on the First Amendment, Threatens Exile for Flag Burners “Nobody should be allowed to burn the American flag—if they do, there must be consequences—perhaps loss of citizenship or year in jail!” tweeted President-elect Donald Trump.

Many of us protesters in the early days of ACT UP used to burn the flag in the Castro as a demonstration against the government’s igno-

WALKER (continued from page 6) around the world and the tendency for blaming that tears kindred spirits apart, I am called to ask you to engage in looking forward. If you need to look inward to start, then do that.

We will be bombarded in the coming years, and these are the times that define us. This disarming moment of shock and its causes will never be our ‘new normal.’ We cannot rest in bickering and blaming. We must fix our creative attention to securing affordable housing and arts spaces, to Supreme Court nominations, to cabinet appointments, to the growing disparity, and to so much more.

The tide has shifted. The water is rising, and before we lose more of our footing, we need to define our own new normal. Locally there are so many things we will need to do, together, to ward off and defend proactively by having a plan to get us through this mess. In California, we will not be able to look to Washington for help. We must come together to save ourselves.

To hold up an example of the positive and powerful effect of political

rance about AIDS. State laws against flag burning were overturned by the Supreme Court in 1989, and a 1990 decision confirmed the same applies to federal law. Flag burning as a means of protest is considered protected speech under the First Amendment. Several attempts have been made to introduce a constitutional amendment against flag burning. The last of these failed to pass the Senate by a single vote in 2006.

However, Trump’s proposed penalty isn’t just ridiculous, it’s impossible. In rare instances, a naturalized citizen can be stripped of citizenship (the process is called “denaturalization,” and it’s mainly invoked for those who falsified information when applying for citizenship). Citizens born in the United States can’t have their citizenship revoked against their will. dailykos.com

The Castro’s 2016 Santa Skivvies Run Raises Funds for AIDS Foundation Castro denizens stripped down to their running shoes and their most festive undies for the 2016 edition of the Santa Skivvies Run. A fundraiser for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, the one-mile fun run raised tens of thousands of dollars for free HIV testing, prevention, and support services, and brought out a variety of creative skivvies and other costumes.

Drag queen Suppositori Spelling kicked off the festivities with a performance and countdown. Santa Claus made a surprise cameo. The run began, turning past the Noe-Beaver mini-park up toward Castro Street.

The course continued down 18th Street, in front of Moby Dick. Volunteers ensured runners didn’t veer into oncoming traffic. Revelers headed back toward the finish line, where refreshments and a packed house awaited at Lookout. hoodline.com

Walmart Settles Class-Action Suit Alleging Anti-LGBT Bias “Making Change at Walmart (MCAW),” the national campaign to change Walmart into a more responsible employer, along with Pride at Work and UFCW OUTreach, a constituency group dedicated to building mutual support between the UFCW’s International, regions, and locals and the LGBT community and their allies, released a statement as the company announced a settlement in the Cote et al. v. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. class-action lawsuit, which accused the company of discriminating against employees who were married to same-sex spouses by denying their spouses health insurance benefits: “Actions speak louder than words, and until now, Walmart’s actions regarding LGBTQ workers’ and their spouses’ health benefits were discriminatory and hurtful. We are pleased to hear that Walmart has admitted wrongdoing in Cote et al. v. Walmart Stores, Inc., and that they have agreed to abide by anti-discrimination policies, and to make those who have been discriminated against whole.

It is our hope that Walmart accepts how wrong they were so that not one more Walmart worker will have to experience such injustice and bigotry.” prideatwork.org TING (continued from page 8)

art: Krissy Keefer, Dance Brigade, Dance Mission will be celebrating their 40th anniversary next month on Jan 11–13 at Yerba Buena Center.

You can get tickets here: http://dancemission.com/performances/upcoming.html#gracias Supporting our artists and art spaces is always important, but never more so than now. Those of us who are artists should mentor others, helping to ensure that our culture survives.

Krissy Keefer, myself and numerous others try very hard to do what we can, but we need your participation, too. Join us in January as we celebrate Krissy and the Dance Brigade legacy!

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/

Private therapeutic institutions must become licensed and regulated to ensure they are not illegally practicing conversion therapy.

Colleges and universities receiving state funds must disclose if they discriminate against their students on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

HIV-positive individuals may donate their organs to others who are HIVpositive.

The next four years will be a battle for our values. California shows the nation that another, better way is possible. Each of us shares the responsibility to stay united against hate, intolerance, and injustice. Each of us must be vigilant and get involved, should we see our federal government undermine the rights of people in our communities.

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

ROSTOW (continued from page 11) he grew “so did his love of cleaning.”

The rainbow chips were in 2015.

Q5: d) First he said a) but then he flip flopped to d).

Q6: a) Grimm’s case, which he won at the Fourth Circuit, has been accepted by the Supreme Court for review

this session. The Indiana teacher is Kim Hively.

Q7: e) and f).

Q8: Answer: b) If they had tried to re-

ment, they would have triggered an antigay sideshow Q9: f) That could never happen!

Q10: Answer: d)

move the now-moot sodomy ban from

See you next year!

the text of their animal rights amend-

arostow@aol.com

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‘Tis the Season for Science Now through January 8 The reindeer are back! Meet our Arctic friends and learn how these sturdy animals adapt to extreme conditions in this one-of-a-kind interactive experience. Plus, enjoy indoor snow flurries, music, and other festivities at our annual winter exhibit—now open every day this holiday season!

Get tickets at calacademy.org

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12/13/16 9:18 AM

From the Coming Up Events Calendar See page 32 Wednesday, December 28 Hanukkah in the Castro – 6 pm @ Congregation Sha’ar Zahav, 290 Dolores Street. shaarzahav.org

Saturday, December 31 - Brava’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Fiesta – 8 pm @ Brava Theater Center, 2781 24th Street.

Fifth annual laugh fest featuring Marga Gomez, Tom Ammiano, Carla Clayy and special guests Butch Escobar and Chey Bell and host Priya Prasad. brava.org

When We Rise Documents LGBTQ History Through the Perceptive Eyes of Legendary Activist Cleve Jones

Inspired, Jones joined thousands of dreamers, adventures, and smalltown escapees flocking to San Francisco in the 1970s. He eventually settled in The Castro—then a burgeoning gay neighborhood—where he developed intense friendships, met lovers, and found his life calling in activism. In his memoir, published

by Hachette Books and recently released just two days before World AIDS Day, he details the nearly 40 years he has spent at the center of the groundbreaking movement, f ighting to give voice to people who, for much of human history, have been silenced.

The book is a witty and uncompromising account of Jones’ remarkable life, which included the heartbreak of losing Milk to an assassin’s bullet.

What follows is an excerpt from that emotional chapter: I got up early on Monday, November 27, because I knew that Harvey’s City Hall aide Anne Kronenberg would be out of town, visiting her parents in Seattle. Dick Pabich, Harvey’s other paid staffer, was planning on leaving City Hall soon to start a political consulting firm with Jim Rivaldo. Harvey had told me that I could have Pabich’s job if I would agree to take at least one class per semester towards my degree. I was eager to show Harvey how useful I could be and arrived at City Hall before him. I wasn’t the only intern; working with me was a baby dyke named Kory White and Deb-

As it turned out, Harvey was less than impressed with me that morning. I’d left a file in my apartment that he wanted to see. Anticipating a reelection campaign challenge, I’d been doing some research on potential opponents, including Leonard Matlovich and Chuck Morris, publisher of the gay and lesbian newspaper the Sentinel. He frowned when I told him I didn’t have the file and told me to go back to my place on Castro Street and bring it back. He was abrupt, but when he saw my crestfallen face he softened and said, “Take your time, I hear Local 2 is picketing the Patio Café. Say hi to them, get some lunch, and I’ll see you this afternoon.”

The Patio Café was originally a bakery. In the early ’70s it was transformed into the Bakery Café, one of the most lovely and relaxing places to have an espresso and a pastry while reading or studying. Behind the building was a large space covered with lawn and a beautiful garden of hydrangeas, abutilons, foxglove, and fuchsias. The flowers attracted hummingbirds and butterf lies that hummed in abundance.

The Bakery Café was sold, and a guy from Germany named Wolfgang took over. He was tall and handsome but I couldn’t stand him and neither could his employees, who approached Local 2 of HERE, the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees Union, for help in organizing.

I retrieved the file from my apartment and walked the half block to the Patio Café, grabbed a picket sign, and began walking with the other picketers. I knew a few of them, told them that Harvey sent his regards and got in a conversation with one about the giant ugly deck hat Wolfgang had built over the beautiful garden area. The flowers and hummingbirds were gone.

A fter about f ifteen minutes the 24‑Divisadero bus drove up and slowed down to stop at 18th Street. A woman I recognized from the Women’s Building yelled at me out of the bus window, “Cleve, it’s on the radio, they shot Mayor Moscone.” I dropped my picket sign and ran to the curb to hail a taxi. As the cab sped down Market Street, I wondered who “they” were. I figured it was either death squads from People’s Temple or the cops.

The driver dropped me off on Van Ness Avenue at the western side of City Hall. I ran in, seeing the police swarming around the mayor’s office

Marching at the National Equality March, Washington, D.C. in 2009

Released on November 29, 2016

PHOTO BY RINK

His life’s stor y, told in riveting prose, tracks much of our community’s movement over the past four to five decades. The book vividly reminds that in the 1960s—not so long ago— gay life took place largely underground, hidden from mainstream America in bars, bathhouses, and other gathering places. The advent of the Internet was decades away, and young LGBTQ Americans like Jones had little information and no way to meet. He, like many, grew up alone and isolated. Then, one day in the high school library, he came across a Life magazine article titled “Homosexuals in Revolt!,” and his eyes were opened. A fledgling gay liberation movement was slowly taking root across the country, and its center was San Francisco.

ra Jones, a black heterosexual woman who adored Harvey and wanted to help build coalitions between the gay/lesbian community and African Americans. She was also keenly interested in urban planning issues, more so than me.

PHOTO BY GIL GOLDSTEIN

The San Francisco Bay Times has had many legendary contributors over its lengthy history, including pioneering gay rights activist Cleve Jones, who is listed in even the earliest issues of the paper. Jones worked with Harvey Milk, co-founded the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, conceived the idea of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, and much more. When an advance copy of Jones’ new book When We Rise came to the office, we therefore picked it up in a flash, began to read and literally could not put it down.

Celebrating with Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom at San Francisco City Hall on Supreme Court Decision Day, June 26, 2015.

Speaking at a recent amfAR Conference

on the other side of the building. The cops frightened me and I ran up the stairs. The Board of Supervisors was on the second floor, and each supervisor had a small office opening to a private hallway that ran parallel to the public hallway. There was a passageway that connected the ornate supervisors’ chambers to the reception area and the hall to the individual offices.

The only thing I can think is that it is over.

It is all over. He was my mentor and friend and he is gone. He was our leader and he is gone. It is over.

Harvey had given me a key to the passageway, and as I let myself in I saw even more police officers running up the stairs. I felt panic in my chest and turned left towards the offices, looking for Harvey, when Dianne Feinstein and an assistant rushed past me. Feinstein’s sleeve and hand were streaked with dark red.

I’d known of the tape and teased him a bit, “Who do you think you are,

I looked down the hallway and saw Harvey’s feet sticking out from Dan White’s office. I recognized his secondhand wingtip shoes immediately.

that he always knew this is how it would go down.

Then my memory shifts to slow motion.

I float to the door of White’s office and peer in. There is a cop there, on his knees, turning Harvey’s body over. I see his head roll.

I see blood, bits of bone, brain tissue. Harvey’s face is a hideous purple. I feel all the air leave my lungs. My brain freezes. I cannot breathe or think or move. He is dead. I have never seen a dead person before.

I struggle to comprehend, as my mind begins to understand what my eyes are seeing.

We are there for hours, trapped in his little office as they bundle up his body.

People come in. More cops. We find Harvey’s old cassette player and the taped message he had recorded in anticipation of his assassination.

Mr. Milk? Dr. King? Malcolm X? I don’t think you’re important enough to be assassinated.” We press the play button.

And now he is dead and it is all over and we are listening to his voice tell us

This is what he expected.

This is what he was willing to do.

This is what had to happen.

And all I can think, all I can say to myself, is, “It’s over. It’s all over.” And then the sun goes down and the people begin to gather.

They come from all over the Bay Area: young and old; black and brown and white; gay and straight; immigrant and nativeborn; men and women and children of all races and backgrounds streaming into Castro Street—Harvey’s street—faces wet with tears, hands clutching candles. Hundreds,

then thousands, then tens of thousands fill the street and begin the long slow march down Market Street to City Hall, a river of candlelight moving in total silence through the center of the city. ________________________________ Our city and community have never been the same since, but the LGBTQ movement forged ahead. The book chronicles other seemingly unsurmountable challenges, like the advent of HIV/AIDS, which Jones was diagnosed with early on. Luckily he is still very much with us, with the memoir presenting the harrowing, sexy and sometimes hilarious stories of his passionate relationships with friends and lovers during an era defined by electrifying liberation, prejudice, and violence alike.

Jones is still at the center of queer activism. Just a few weeks ago, for example, he gave impassioned speeches at protests in San Francisco following the election of Donald Trump. His life’s work is truly remarkable, and he is far from being done yet. Will there be a sequel to When We Rise? We certainly hope so. In the meantime, do yourself a favor and read this riveting book. Like us, you will probably find yourself picking it up again and again, discovering aspects of your own life in its pages.

Follow Cleve Jones online at www.clevejones.com

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ABC Mini-series When We Rise Benefits from Cleve Jones Collaboration with Dustin Lance Black Cleve Jones’ memoir inspired the ABC mini-series of the same name, When We Rise, which is scheduled to run on ABC in February 2017. We cannot wait to see it, and can only guess that there will be numerous local viewing parties organized around its showing, once the air dates are announced. Many of us watched the creation of the series, since much of the filming took place just steps from our homes and work places here in San Francisco.

Academy Award-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black wrote and created the series, which chronicles the real-life personal and political struggles, setbacks and triumphs of a diverse family of LGBT men and women who helped pioneer one of the last legs of the U.S. Civil Rights movement, from its turbulent infancy in the 20th century to the once unfathomable successes of today.

Black, an honors graduate of UCLA’s School of Film and Television, has been repeatedly named one of the 50 most powerful LGBT people in America today. He wrote the original screenplay for MILK, the biopic of Harvey Milk starring Sean Penn.

He is a founding board member of the American Foundation for Equal Rights, which successfully led the federal cases for marriage equality in California and Virginia with lawyers David Boise and Ted Olson, putting an end to California’s discriminatory Proposition 8.

In 2012 Black merged his creative and civil rights work with “8,” a play based on the Federal Proposition 8 trial. “8’s” Los Angeles cast included George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Martin Sheen, Kevin Bacon and John C. Reilly. The play was broadcast live, and has been staged in eight countries and all fifty states. It continues to break viewership records online. Given Black’s track record, expectations are incredibly high for When We Rise.

Starring in the mini-series are Guy Pearce (“Memento,” “L.A. Confidential”) as LGBT activist Cleve Jones, Mary-Louise Parker (“Weeds,” “Angels in America”) as women’s rights leader Roma Guy, Rachel Griffiths (“Brothers and Sisters,” “Six Feet Under”) as her wife, social justice activist Diane, Michael K. Williams (“Boardwalk Empire,” “The Wire”) as African-American community organizer Ken Jones and Ivory Aquino as transgender-activist Cecelia Chung.

Joining them are Austin McKenzie (“Spring Awakening”) as Younger Cleve Jones, Emily Skeggs (“Fun Home”) as Younger Roma Guy, newcomer Jonathan Majors as Younger Ken Jones, and Fiona Dourif (“The Master”) as Younger Diane.

The story unfolds from Jones’ youth as a Quaker from Arizona, to his leading the National March for Equality in 2009 and beyond. Black’s close collaboration with Jones should be evident throughout the production.

In terms of some of its other prominent figures, Ken Jones, an AfricanAmerican Vietnam veteran, joined the gay-liberation movement in San Francisco, only to discover and confront racism within the gay men’s community. For years he organized services for homeless youth, worked to diversify the gay movement, and led efforts to confront the devastation of the AIDS epidemic.

From rural Maine, Roma Guy is a lesbian and a long-time social justice leader who co-founded the San Francisco Women’s Building. Then, as a Public Health Commissioner, she worked with others to bring healthcare access to all San Franciscans.

She is currently a criminal-justice activist.

Diane, a lesbian mother and grandmother of three, joined the Women’s Movement in the 1970s in San Francisco, co-founded the Women’s Building and has worked as an HIV/ AIDS nurse and social justice activist at San Francisco General Hospital for 33 years.

Special guest stars include Henry Czerny, Whoopi Goldberg, Arliss Howard, Sam Jaeger, T.R. Knight, Mary McCormak, Kevin McHale, Rosie O’Donnell, Denis O’Hare, Pauley Perrette, David Hyde Pierce, Richard Schiff, Phylicia Rashad, Rob Reiner and William Sadler.

When We Rise is executive produced by the Dustin Lance Black (“Milk,” “Big Love,” “J. Edgar”), Gus Van Sant (“Milk,” “Elephant,” “Good Will Hunting”) Laurence Mark (“Julie & Julia,” “Dreamgirls,” “I, Robot,” “Jerry Maguire”), and Bruce Cohen (“American Beauty,” “Milk,” “Silver Linings Playbook”). Van Sant directs the two-hour premiere of the eight-hour mini-series event.

For a preview, check out the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CB ZZgXaE_A

‘When We Rise’ Book Release Party

Photos by Rink

Entertainers Juanita More and DJ Tweaka Turner hosted the When We Rise Book Release Party held on Saturday, December 3, at Strut. The event featured a performance by the Brass Liberation Orchestra.

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Photos courtesy of ABC TV

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The Year in Queer Film 2016

Film Gary M. Kramer The year in queer film 2016 had both notable achievements—Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight, about three stages in the life of an African American man, chief among them—and some dubious ones. Sea of Trees by out filmmaker Gus Van Sant was critically panned and barely got a theatrical release.

When it did, audiences stayed away in droves.

Moonlight

Here is a rundown of the year’s best LGBT films.

Best Gay Male Film: Moonlight by Barry Jenkins shrewdly investigated what it means to be black and gay and in a world that revolves in and around drug culture. The film’s sensitive moments and indelible, internalized performances keep Moonlight from playing into stereotypes, illuminating the characters’ humanity.

Best Debut Film: Andrew Ahn’s Spa Night, about David (the remarkable Joe Seo) a Korean American grappling with his sexuality, his parents, and the reality of a just out of reach American Dream, was simply astonishing. From the hothouse sexual atmosphere of the spa to the issues of Asian American assimilation, Spa Night was an immersive debut that captured the tensions of sexuality and family.

Hail, Caesar

Gaycation

Best Lesbian Film: Park Chanwook’s The Handmaiden was a mesmerizing adaptation of lesbian author Sarah Waters’ celebrated Victorianera novel, The Fingersmith. It was the year’s most highly satisfying Sapphic drama. The narrative twists were as breathtaking as the rich vivid colors, ornate interiors, and luscious exteriors that made Park’s film visually stimulating.

Best Gender-Bending Film: Don’t Call Me Son had a teen (Naomi Nero) learning he was stolen from his birth mother. Reunited with his biological family, he causes more conflict when he displays his penchant for crossdressing. Like its characters, this film took risks.

Best Documentary: Hockney is a marvelous and profound portrait of the artist that captures its subject through a mélange of quotes by Hockney, anecdotes by his friends, and outstanding archival footage and photographs. It showcased and emphasized the painter’s way of seeing, and allowed audiences to see Hockney in a new way, too.

Most Homoerotic Sequence: The “No Dames” dance number from Hail, Caesar not only features clever lyrics sung by soon-to-be lonely seamen, but also Channing Tatum’s expression when caught with another man’s ass in his face was priceless.

And the bit where he is sandwiched between two dancing male behinds was especially delicious.

Most Seductive Male: Naked and lying in bed, Luis Alberti was muy caliente as Palomino Cañedo, who seduced and deflowered Sergei Eisenstein (Elmer Bäck) in Peter Greenway’s hypnotic Eisenstein in Guanajuato.

Best Male Ass: In the love scene between Ryan ( Jake Choi) and Ning 24

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The Handmaiden James Chen) in Ray Yeung’s charming Front Cover it is unclear whose naked ass is seen (even Yeung, when pressed to identify the actor, demurs, “I forget.”) Regardless of the ambiguity or the nudity, Front Cover emphasized that Asian-American men, long (and unfairly) desexualized on screen, are hot, and both Choi and Chen were fabulously sexy.

Best Gay Teen on Screen: Stephen Cone’s modest, incisive gem, Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party, had every character reveal themself in a look or a line of dialogue, and out actor Cole Doman made a striking film debut in the title role.

Best Ellen Page Performance: The terrific Ellen Page’s finest screen work in 2016 was not actually a film (she had two films, Tallulah and Into the Forest, in release this summer) but her documentary TV series, Gaycation.

Travelling with her gay best friend Ian Daniel, the pair explored LGBT life in Japan, Brazil, Jamaica and the U.S. It was a fun and informative trip worth taking.

Best Non-Gay Film Made by a Gay Man: Fashion designer turned filmmaker Tom Ford’s sophomore ef-

fort, Nocturnal Animals, about an art gallery owner (Amy Adams) and her ex ( Jake Gyllenhaal) was as stylish as it was spellbinding.

B e st G ay Fi l m M a de by a Straight Man: Matt Sobels’ stunning Take Me to the River, chronicled gay teen Ryder (Logan Miller), at the center of escalating tensions with his extended family during a reunion in the heartland.

Best Re-release: Multiple Maniacs John Waters’ crude—and crudely made—classic underground “celluloid atrocity,” long out of release, features one helluva performance by Divine. It was great to revisit Lady Divine getting a “rosary job” from Mink (Mink Stole), and raped by Lobstora, a fifteen-foot broiled crustacean.

Here’s to more great LGBT cinema in 2017. © 2016 Gary M. Kramer Gary M. Kramer is the author of “Independent Queer Cinema: Reviews and Interviews,” and the co-editor of “Directory of World Cinema: Argentina.” Follow him on Twitter @garymkramer

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun

By Sister Dana Van Iquity Sister Dana sez, “The holidays are here!

I will not be enlisting in the Christian Far Right’s fight against the ‘War on Christmas,’ and will feel free to just wish everybuddy happy holidaze. But remember to keep the ‘X’ in “Xmas!!!”

The Castro’s 2016 HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY was held at Castro and 18th streets (the site of the present Bank of America & formerly “Hibernia Beach”) for the annual event. On the heels of Thanksgiving, a crowd of over 200 revelers of all ages gathered to hear witty and wise remarks from emcee Donna Sachet and two of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Sister Kitty Catalyst and Sister Dana, invoking an emotional blessing of the tree (reflecting on past queer history, our legacy, and hoping for a better present regarding the T-rump Administration. There was the highly anticipated arrival of Santa, escorted by the San Francisco Police Department, and even a cameo by district supervisor soon to be Senator Scott Weiner. Holiday music was provided by members of the S.F. Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band, S.F. Gay Men’s Chorus, Lesbian/Gay Chorus of S.F. and Golden Gate Men’s Chorus as the 28 -foot tree was lit up for the first evening of this year’s holiday season.

On the eve of WORLD AIDS DAY, on this 25th anniversary year of the creation of the NATIONAL AIDS MEMORIAL GROVE, we were invited to the SEVENTH ANNUAL LIGHT IN THE GROVE fundraising gala, a one-of-a-kind occasion of remembrance and celebration. The mission of the National AIDS Memorial Grove is to provide, in perpetuity, a place of remembrance so that the lives of people who died from AIDS are not forgotten and the story is known by future generations.

This iconic event offered a unique evening experience in Golden Gate Park; an outdoor celebration in a glowing clear tent, with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dinner, featuring music, performance artistry, and evocative light displays throughout the memorial. The site was specially lit along pathways and up in the trees—including trees with names of the deceased projected on and scrolled up the trunks. Dancers performed modern contemporary interpretations to the music piped in. The Circle of Friends (names inscribed on the cement of those who had died from AIDS and their friends) had votive candles placed in circular patterns amounting to a display of dazzling light.

“As we gather in this beautiful meadow, we pay tribute to the lives lost to this pandemic,” said John Cunningham, Executive Director of the National AIDS Memorial. “It was within their struggle and the grief and pain that followed that the Grove was born 25 years ago. Today, we join together to honor their legacy and recognize some of the leaders who have made lasting impacts in the fight against AIDS.” Cunningham screened a video about the Grove and the many people honored there, including the grand diva singer/songwriter Sylvester. Entertainment continued with a delightful medley of Sylvester’s songs performed by the renowned disco diva Jeanie Tracy. We all got up and danced to her classic “Dance with Me,” as flaggers twirled huge silver flags outside the tent to the beat of the music inside. This was followed by a set of diverse tunes from golden oldies to new numbers by Josh Klipp & the Klipptones.

The following afternoon, on World AIDS Day, the Grove held it 23rd annual WORLD AIDS DAY OBSERVANCE entitled “HEARTS RISING.” The tribute focused on Jeanne White-Ginder, AIDS activist and mother of the late Ryan White, who accepted the Thom Weyand Unsung Hero Award on behalf of the national Hemophilia community, 50% of which perished between 1980–2010 due to a tainted blood supply. Paul Kawata, executive director of the NATIONAL MINORITY AIDS COUNCIL also received the National Leadership Recognition Award for his work to building leadership in communities of color to address the challenges of HIV/AIDS. The National AIDS Memorial, in collaboration with HIV STORY PROJECT, also unveiled a series of personal video stories that captured the vast and diverse voices of the epidemic through personal stories by survivors aimed at inspiring future generations. This year, those personal stories focused on the horrific plight of the Hemophilia community and the tragedy and loss caused by a tainted blood supply. A firstever “Powering Through” panel discussion was also held, bringing together leaders in the national Hemophilia community to discuss the need for a feature in the National AIDS Memorial to commemorate those infected by the blood contamination crisis and the ongoing processing of and healing from the disaster.

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Inside the tent, the program began with music and song by Crystal Lee, who had also composed a number in honor of her mother who had

passed from AIDS. Event co-chairs Kate Kendell & Martin Tannenbaum were emcees. It was a time for honoring San Francisco community leader Alvin Baum for his more than five decades of unwavering service as an activist and philanthropist dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS and the LGBT community at large.

He received the “Lifetime of Commitment” award for his service as a board member or advisor at numerous organizations, including ACLU/ Northern California, Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, Horizons Foundation, James C. Hormel Gay & Lesbian Center of the San Francisco Public Library, AIDS Research Institute at UCSF, and many more. Baum joked he had never been on the workforce in the memorial garden, because he “had a brown thumb and would kill the plants.”

Among his many honors, Baum was named Lifetime Achievement Grand Marshal in the LGBT Pride Parade in 2013. Senator Mark Leno presented his final proclamation—being termed out of the Senate—to Baum for his tireless years of volunteerism and philanthropy.

Sister Dana with friends at Donna Sachet’s Songs of the Season 2016 held at Halcyon SF on November 28-30.

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Stir, Rise Up, Move Forward The kitchen is the heart of intention. Stir the root soup, the senses rise up the tongue moves forward away from hunger.

Poet in Residence Kit Kennedy Kit Kennedy is the Poet-inResidence of the San Francisco Bay Times and at her church Ebenezer Lutheran. She has published 5 poetr y collections, and for the past several years she has hosted the poetry series at Gallery Café. For more information, please visit her blog: http://poetrybites. blogspot.com

Like wildflowers, soup is never singular. Full of this-and-that coming together to feed mouth to fuel memory.

Who doubts the sea is a place of raw hunger and beauty?

Waves push pebbles into luster, that treasured sea glass your lover gave you.

Ah, yes, the moon. She rises.

She changes. Sliver-slim into the fullness of promise. A kiss, savored. You swear on her light there will be another harvest.

Stacy Boorn, Photographer

Sometimes soil is barren & fields fallow. But life is stirring with many eyes, many hands, many voices ready to protect & celebrate.

Rise up. Move forward. Harvest.

– Kit Kennedy

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE DE YOUNG AND LEGION OF HONOR

At the Milliner’s by Édouard Manet On display at the Legion of Honor One hallmark of Impressionist painting is the artists’ decision to represent the modern world, rather than scenes with allegorical themes or historical narratives. Édouard Manet’s depictions of contemporary life employed bold and painterly brushwork, which significantly influenced the style that would become known as Impressionism.

At the Milliner’s was painted only two or three years before Manet’s death and portrays one of the themes that Manet preferred later in his career: feminine elegance. The depiction of women in shops or boudoirs trying on hats was also favored by several of Manet’s contemporaries, including Edgar Degas and Camille Pissarro.

Although the title indicates that Manet’s subject is in a milliner’s shop, the woman’s exposed shoulders and the room’s luxurious detailing suggest an intimate setting, or perhaps the privacy of a home. The figure’s exquisitely outlined and flattened profile is contrasted against the patterned wallpaper background, evoking Manet’s interest in Japanese prints. The flurry of vigorous brushwork composing the wallpaper demonstrates the artist’s painterly skill even in the face of a disabling disease. Despite Manet’s illness, At the Milliner’s shows no sign of the artist’s diminishing artistic power.

It is unknown who this woman is, and efforts to identify her have proved unsuccessful. The painting may have been considered unfinished by Manet, as it remained in his studio until its posthumous sale in 1884. The almost indistinct signature at the lower left was also added after his death.

For more information about the Legion of Honor: http://legionofhonor.famsf.org/

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Édouard Manet, “At the Milliner’s,” 1881. Oil on canvas. 85.1 x 73.7 cm (33 ½ x 29 in.). Museum purchase, Mildred Anna Williams Collection. 1957.3

Tell Your Story with Flowers “The earth laughs in flowers.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson Laughter is needed at every wedding celebration … and so are flowers!

The floral decor sets the scene and mood for a wedding. Bright yellow sunflowers will emanate a different mood than blush peonies. Having thoughtfully placed floral decor lets your guests know they have arrived at a celebration and welcomes them even before their first glass of bubbly.

While important, flowers do not have to cost more than a down payment on a home (especially in the SF market). When I work with clients we start with their budget because, let’s face it, most couples are on a budget. To get you started in planning your celebration decor, here are a few tips from the Chelsea Events & Floral Design team. These tips will help you stay in budget and also stay away from gray hairs along the way!

Tip Number One: Hire a professional.

DIY projects can be fun but also may add stress to a time that should be festive. Couples who try to do their own flowers or who have friends handle these details often call us at the last minute for help. Your wedding is one day; don’t spend it exhausted because the night before you were putting together centerpieces. Many couples don’t take into account the day-of set-up and takedown of their decor as well. Time is money and supplies add up.

Tip Number Two: Trust us.

We want your flowers to be absolutely breathtaking! We make helpful suggestions and select the freshest flowers for you. We are detailed and diligent over stems of dahlias, treat hydrangeas as if they were egg shells, and fluff roses to perfection. We’d pay off mother nature to deliver off-season flowers and treat every wedding as if it were our own.

Tip Number Three: Don’t feel stressed or pressed to pick wedding colors or a theme.

I’ve witnessed couples select expensive, out of season flowers just to stay within their color scheme. In my opinion, the best weddings don’t have a color palette or follow a magazine layout. Select flowers that make you smile, invitations that you’re drawn to, and choose a cake that makes you forget about the calories.

I then take your selections and tell your story. I make it all come together. What we then see is your unique and personal style emerge. Your guests will leave your wedding knowing they attended your wedding and not one on Pinterest or contrived to fit the look.

Tip Number Four: Recycle and reuse.

This works with bottles and cans … and flowers too! Altar pieces can be moved to anchor your sweetheart or head table. Bridesmaid bouquets can be placed in vases to spice up your dessert table. Centerpieces can be given as gifts to guests with birthdays closest to your wedding date.

In the days, months, and years following your perfectly planned epic wedding celebration, please remember to still bring home flowers as a surprise for your sweetheart because, as John Lennon wrote, “Love is the flower you’ve got to let grow.”

Chelsea Bowman Wonnell is the owner of Chelsea Events & Floral Design, one of San Francisco’s premier wedding and event planning companies. Chelsea is a specialist who has planned and coordinated hundreds of weddings over the past decade that are enhanced with her over 20 years of floral design experience. She can handle all of your details, from the planning to the petals! You can contact her at 415-310-4430 or chelsea@chelseaeventsandfloraldesign.com

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 (http://sullivanbotelloevents.com) and SnB Party Rentals (650-877-0840, www.snbpartyrentals.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.

National AIDS Memorial Grove -

World AIDS Day 2016 Photos by Rink and Paul Margolis

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

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 PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

The 23rd Annual World AIDS Day National Observance, held on Thursday, December 1, with the theme “Hearts R ising,” included the presentation of Young L eaders Scholarship Awards, the National Leadership Recog nition Award to Paul Kawata of the Nat ional M inor it y AIDS Council and the Thom Weyand Unsung Hero Award to The National Hemophilia Community. Also included was a performance by artist Paula West, a complimentary luncheon and panel discussion by leaders of The Hemophilia Community. Ryan White’s mother Jeanne White-Grinder was also honored.

PHOTO BY RINK

The National AIDS Memorial Grove presented the beautiful and poignant Light in the Grove event on November 30, the eve of World AIDS Day. Co-chaired

by Kate Kendell and Martin Tannenbaum, the event honored philanthropist Al Baum with the Lifetime of Commitment Award.

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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2016 Sports Year End Review: New Records and Standards Established Photos courtesy of John Chen

Sports John Chen 2016 has been a really intriguing and exciting year in sports. LeBron James finally won the NBA Title for the “land,” ending a 52-year pro sports championship drought for the city of Cleveland. The Chicago Cubs won the World Series and overcame a 108-year baseball championship drought and broke a 71-year “Billy Goat Curse.”

2016 also saw record-breaking accomplishments at the Rio Olympics from Michael Phelps, Usain Bolt and Simon Biles. But in this writer’s opinion, one of the most important records broken concerned the 56 openly LGBT Olympians who competed. Collectively it was an all-time high, and they more than doubled the number (23) of such individuals at the 2012 London Olympics. This is of great importance, signaling cracks at the apex of the proverbial homophobic massive wall of sports, the Olympics.

Unfortunately, out of the 56 openly gay athletes, there were no transgender competitors and only 12 men.

Additionally, none of the out male Olympians were American, suggesting that we still have a lot of work to do to breakdown “locker room” stereotypes and to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for LGBT athletes. Currently, elite athletes don’t have access to the same support system such as the everyday, average sports hacks like me. Over the course of 2016, I’ve discovered numerous local LGBT sports organizations that provide support networks, safe havens and family-like environment. I guess it’s lonely at the top, and a price LGBT athletes pay for dedicating their lives to the sport they love. But it shouldn’t be that way.

SF Sketch Randy Coleman 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.” © Randy Coleman, 2016 28

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2016 saw North Carolina pass House Bill 2 (HB2) that enforces the usage of bathrooms based on the sex appearing on birth certificates, a bill that blatantly discriminates against the transgender community. North Carolina quickly discovered sports can be a powerful gorilla in the room with tremendous social and economic pull.

In a matter of months, the National Collegiate Athletic Association pulled seven of its championship venues out of North Carolina. The National Basketball Association moved its annual All Star game from Charlotte to New Orleans. The Atlantic Coast Conference moved all neutral site championship games out of North Carolina.

In a part of our country where sports is a way of life, the gorilla can throw its weight around. And the pressure is mounting for North Carolina to repeal HB2. 2017 may be that time.

Although some of the most recognizable sports conglomerates support equality and rights, its athletes com-

pete in a culture that’s far less understanding and supportive, especially in the locker room. For this reason, we consistently see the National Football League, NBA and Major League Baseball—three of the most powerful professional sports leagues in the world—publish statements supporting and enforcing policies centering on equal rights and condemning discrimination based on sexual orientation. Yet, there are zero currently active, openly gay athletes in the three associations combined. Why? Nevertheless, there have been a lot of positives in 2016. Moving forward to 2017 and beyond, I feel cautiously optimistic (despite the election results) that out athletes will be more commonplace, and that sports will be one of the many gorillas in the room pushing for equality and human rights.

John Chen, a UCL A alumnus and an avid sports fan, has competed as well as coached tennis, volleyball, softball and football teams.

Inside Out Is Going Easy

Take Me Home with You!

might stop trying. Maybe your friends or family struggle with fitness too.

Inside Out Fitness Cinder Ernst We are changing our name to Easy Fitness! Why, you might ask? Because when you use the Inside Out Fitness techniques, the result is that you exercise easily. Easy Fitness works great for reluctant exercisers because our systems are based on the Easy Fitness Success Formula: “Doing what I said I would do about exercise, consistently and without struggle.”

This formula was partially derived from the teachings of my mentor, Dr. Maria Nemeth, as she helps people in her book Mastering Life’s Energies.

As we look at the first part of the formula, it says “doing what I said I would do.” That line is a kicker because we usually let other people— doctors, TV stars and more—influence or dictate what we decide to do about exercise. This usually leads to us hardly exercising at all because that information just doesn’t work for most people. Think about this for a minute: How many times have you tried to follow traditional fitness guidelines? It doesn’t work, so you

How do you then decide what to say you will do? At Easy Fitness, we approach exercise as an inside job. We look at how you’re feeling physically in this moment to help you figure out what’s next. In this way, we help you keep your exercise practice appropriate and doable. After all, if it’s appropriate and doable, then you have a pretty good shot at doing it consistently. This appropriate and doable procedure satisfies the first part of the Easy Fitness Success Formula: doing what I said I would do about exercise consistently. You decide on a path that is just right for you. Can you feel the empowerment in that?

There is no hurry tied to all of this.

You have the rest of your life to figure this fitness thing out. Set aside any regrets or worry; they will not help you. We’re going to help you figure out your next best step.

When was the last time you exercised consistently? Never, too long ago to remember, or not in the last year? If this is you, then you could begin with a small sweet step. Do something that takes about 2 minutes and do it every day for a week. A small thing done each day with some ease will give you momentum in the Easy Fitness direction. Focus on building a good feeling momentum that comes from doing something easy and doable. Then you increase 1 minute at a time. Don’t sign up for a marathon just yet! Some examples to start with are: A 1-minute walk, march around, chair dance or kitchen dance and then a Flop Over hamstring stretch.

There are many knee healing and back healing small step exercises posted on YouTube. Search for Cinder

“Hello there, my name is Libertyi Liberty. Or Lady Liberty, if you prefer! I’m easy going, well mannered, and love everyone I meet—kids and canines included. My 2017 New Year’s resolution is to get my figure back. I’m hoping to find someone special who will cheer me on and be my exercise buddy!”

Ernst. My favorite beginning exercise is the Tush Tilt and you can find it on YouTube or in the September 1 San Francisco Bay Times archive. Combine it with the Flop Over.

Do you have knee pain?

Try the Miracle Knee Exercise which you can find in the September 22 San Francisco Bay Times archives. Combine it with the Flop Over. You can also get great knee healing info at http://cinderernst.com Do you have back pain?

Liberty 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 Liberty.

To meet Liberty 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: sfspca.org/adoptions/pet-details/33969721 sfspca.org/adopt

Try the back-pain relief exercises from the October 20 San Francisco Bay Times archives. Combine these with the Flop Over.

pain. That’s a lot of bang for your buck!

The following are instructions for the Flop Over stretch, which creates flexibility in the back of your legs (calf muscle), the back of your thighs (hamstring muscle) and your lower back.

Stretching these particular muscles can reduce foot, knee, hip and back

Stand in front of your bed or table or desk. Keep your legs pretty straight.

Bend forward from the waist, resting your upper body on the bed. At a table or desk, you might fold your arms and let your forehead rest there. This is supported forward flexion. Many

people just bend over and try to touch their toes—not a good idea— as this is unsupported forward flexion. Support yourself!

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

15th Anniversary Gala - REAF’s Help Is on the Way for the Holidays Photos by Rink and Paul Margolis

Fitness SF Trainer Tip of the Month Leah Anne Whitson – Fitness SF Mid Market Strengthen Your Core Using Your Legs Stand tall, hold onto something, lock both knees, and keep your pelvis level. Keep your left foot planted on the step and your right foot suspended in the air. Next, lift your right foot above the position of your left foot, and then drop your right foot down below the position of your left foot. Repeat 15 times on each side. Take a walk, and notice how much more freedom you have in the hips, pelvis, and lower back.

PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY RINK

Richmond Ermet Aid Foundation’s 15th Anniversary of Help Is on the Way for the Holidays on Monday, December 5, was a festive occasion featuring the show at Marines Memorial Theater and an after party with the cast at the Clift Hotel’s Velvet and Redwood Rooms. Entertainers on the program included Sharon McNight, Jason Brock, Paula West, Carly Ozard and cast members from The Lion King and The King and I. Beth Schnitzer, founder of Spritz Public Relations, was honored for her community service and achievements. Larkin Street Youth Services was the event beneficiary.

He can be reached at tmacfarland@fitnesssf.com PHOTO BY RINK

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

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

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Speaking to Your Soul

Astrology Elisa Quinzi Most of us have suffered an outlook on life, especially as of late, that has begun to crystalize to some extent. The current energies prompt us to seek, and find, a break from routine that reinspires us.

ARIES (March 21–April 19) New relationships, both lovers and friends, bring much-desired adventures and rejuvenating experiences into your life. While in some cases, this can upset the apple cart, you’re ready for more freedom now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) For the past 9 months, you’ve been nurturing a more confident and resilient version of yourself. Reflection comes in the way of romance. You attract companions who teach you about space and the freedom to be yourself.

TAURUS (April 20–May 20) Your mind is open to receive a download of spiritual data. Beliefs and ideas expand to open avenues for your life to unfold in a new direction. Stay loose.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You’ve been incubating spiritual seeds. Help them sprout with practices like meditation and dream journaling. Consider also supporting your journey with herbs, nutrition, and alternative health practices.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your self-confidence gets a boost, encouraging you to pursue a more authentic trajectory toward your future.

Take creative risks.

CANCER ( June 21–July 22) A growing atmosphere of love, warmth, and harmony at home help you navigate necessary career changes.

You’ve outgrown your shell and it’s time to pick a more suitable role to match who you have become.

LEO ( July 23–August 22) It’s a good time to upgrade your body of knowledge and skill set. Your curiosity is high. Taking a foreign language class could serendipitously result in a sudden opportunity for travel, or the realization of the desire for a degree.

VIRGO (August 23–Sept. 22) Your developing sense of self-worth attracts people and opportunities now that invite you to claim your authentic self. You feel the inner security to show your true colors.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Responsibilities may have had the best of you for a while now.

Pent up energy requires an outlet via play and pleasure. Conviving with your tribe brings rejuvenation. Romance is revitalized when you fill your well with what you need.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22–Jan.19) Sifting through your roots and discarding what no longer serves you allows you the space and freedom to take advantage of opportunities for recognition and next-level success in the world.

AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20–Feb. 18) There is a link between your penchant for uncensored expression and the expansion of your mental perceptions. Free-flowing dialogue strengthens your faith in people and your belief in the intrinsic good of life.

PISCES (Feb. 19–March 20) A period of soul-searching reveals that your deepest values have not been made fully manifest in your life circumstances. Prioritize these values and renew your faith in the universe’s capacity to deliver.

Elisa has been enjoying the art of astrological counseling since earning professional certification many years ago. In addition to astrological knowledge, she brings a high degree of conscious presence to her work, and creates a safe, comfortable atmosphere for sessions to unfold organically. Contact her at futureselfnow@gmail.com or 818-530-3366 or visit www.ElisaQuinzi.com

As Heard on the Street . . . What do you see as the best and worst things that happened in 2016? compiled by Rink

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Beth Schnitzer

Carly Ozard

Phylicia Pearl

LaTonya Lawson

Skye Paterson

“The best was Hillary Clinton was nominated for the presidency, and the worst was the divisiveness in this country.”

“The best was meeting the love of my life, Chris, and the worst was the Pulse Nightclub massacre.”

“The best was that I finally found myself and my life, and the worst was that I told a man that I loved him and he did not love me, so it is over.”

“The best was spending time with my 92-year-old father, and the worst was that jerk getting elected.”

“The best was that, even with setbacks, we are moving forward, and the worst is that he won, but it is only for four years.”

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Professional Services

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

PHOTO BY SANDY MORRIS

NewPer specti ves Center for Counseling

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY   T IM ES DEC EM BER 15, 2016

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Compiled by Blake Dillon

15 : Thursday

17 : Saturday

In the Name of Love - 15th Annual Musical Tribute Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – 7 pm @ Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland.

With the theme “Marvin Gaye, What’s Going On?”, this year’s concert features a lineup including LGBT community favorite Tammy Hall and others. mlktribute.com

Krewe de Kinque’s Benefit for Oakland Warehouse Fire Victims – 4 pm @ Edge Bar, 4149 18th Street. The charitable Madi Gras club will host a benefit evening in the Castro with funds going to the Fire Relief Fund for Victims of the Ghost Ship Oakland Fire. qbarsf.com/EDGE/

Smuin Ballet’s The Christmas Ballet – 8 pm @ Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard Street. smuinballet.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

16 : Friday Megan Hilty @ Feinstein’s – Repeats Dec 17 & 18 @ Feinstein’s at The Nikko, 222 Mason Street. Broadway star Megan Hilty returns to perform traditional and modern holiday tunes. feinsteinsatthenikko.com eXposed SF Street Photography Exhibit – Through January 22 @ Harvey Milk Photo Center, 50 Scott Street. A juried exhibit featuring works by the SF Street Photography Group. harveymilkphotocenter.com LGBTQ Holiday Mixer Party at Lyft – 6 pm @ Lyft HQ, 185 Berry Street. Equality Federation presents LGBTQ mixers for fun and fundraising. lgbtqholidaymixer.eventbrite.com

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Maitri Holiday Open House – 2 pm @ Maitri Compassionate Care, 401 Duboce Avenue. Annual gathering with holiday appetizers and festive holiday music. maitrisf.org The Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl – 2 pm @ Mayes Oyster House, 1233 Polk Street for check-in. A jolly ‘ol holiday pub crawl complete with cheap drinks. crawlsf.com Jason Brock’s 4th Annual Holiday Show – 7 pm @ Martuni’s, 4 Valencia Street.

Accompanied by Dr. Dee Spencer on the piano, Jason will sing traditional favorites and welcome special guest Halili Know. jasonbrockvocals.com

18 : Sunday Soulful Christmas – Repeats through December 24 @ Buriel Clay Theater, 762 Fulton Street.

Presented by the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. lhtsf.org Katya and Friends A Holiday Delight! – 7 pm @ Martuni’s, 4 Valencia Street. Katya presents Veronica Klaus, Norman Vane, Ethel Merman and Mz. Belle Bottoms with Joe Wicht accompanying. facebook.com/events/ 1350638411634179 ButcHer: Disney Edition – 9 pm @ The Stud, 399 9th Street.

Queer deviant performance art playground featuring music of DJ Rosegold (Luna SF). studsf.com

Dashing Through The Divas – 7:30 pm @ Oasis, 298 11th Street. Courtney Act performs songs from famous holiday albums of grand dames. sfoasis.com Curator’s Talk: Through Knowledge to Justice – 7 pm @ GLBT Historical Society Museum, 4127 18th Street. Curator Gerard Koskovich will lead an information tour “Through Knowledge to Justice: The Sexual World of Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld.” glbthistory.org Strut Book Club Reads Lay Your Sleeping Head by Michael Nava – 7:30 pm @ Strut Second Floor, 470 Castro Street. Featuring the celebrated local author. strutsf.org

20 : Tuesday Juanita More! Tamale & Tequila Dinner – 5 pm @ Hecho, 2200 Market Street.

Executive chef Cory Armenta presents a prix-fixe dinner featuring port tamale based on the family recipe of Juanita More. hechoinsf.com The Christmas Ballet SF – 8 pm @ Yerba Buena Center for The Arts, 700 Howard Street.

Smuin Ballet’s annual holiday tradition. smuinballet.org Nyre, Psychic Mind and Pit Stains – 8 pm @ El Rio, 3158 Mission. Performances at everyone’s favorite dive bar. elriosf.com

21 : Wednesday Mittens and Mistletoe: A Winter Circus Cabaret – Repeats through December 31 @ Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th Street. A theatrical circus experience with a holiday theme presented by Sweet Can Productions. sweetcanproductions.com Queer Fires for Peace – 7 pm @ Flesh & Spirit Community, 924 Presidio Avenue. Peaceful acts of conscious activism. fleshandspirit.org Trivia with Kitty Tapata – 8 pm @ The Wild Side West, 424 Cortland Avenue. Multicultural funfilled evening of trivia competition. facebook.com/events/133314598 3387060/?active_tab=about

22 : Thursday It’s a Wonderful Life – Repeats @ Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street. A perennial Christmas favorite. Castrotheatre.com Intercollegiate Mixer – 6:30 pm @ Royal Exchange, 301 Sacramento Street. An alumni evening of Intercollegiate Pride and holiday festivities. josephlee@ berkeley.edu Dirty Christmas Cabaret: Naughty + Nice, Booze, Spice! – 7:30 pm @ PianoFight, 144 Taylor Street. Holiday mayhem produced by Alison Quin and Amanda Jane Salmon. pipanofight.com

23 : Friday Ali Wong at Cobb’s Comedy Club – 9:45 pm @ Cobb’s, 915 Columbus Avenue.

Cobbscomedyclub.com Kung Pao Kosher Comedy – Repeats Dec 24 and 25 @ New Asia Restaurant, 772 Pacific Avenue

(Grant & Stockton). 24th annual alternative Jewish Christmas event featuring producer Lisa Geduldig with Elayne Boosler, Eddie Sarfaty and Alex Edeloman. koshercomedy.com 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

24 :Saturday December Bear Brunch – 10 am @ Crepevine (Church @ Market). bosf.org Christmas Spectacular Featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas – 2 pm & 8 pm @ Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Avenue. San Francisco Symphony performs with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Lucy and the whole Peanuts Gang. sfsymphony.org San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus Home for the Holidays – 5, 7 & 9 pm @ Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street. 27th annual Christmas Eve concerts featuring the Chorus with special guest Melody Moore. sfgmc.org Christmas Eve Carols & Mass – 9:30 pm @ Most Holy Redeemer Church, 100 Diamond Street. An annual tradition in the heart of the Castro. mhr.org

25: Sunday Otter Festivities – 10 am @ Aquarium of the Bay. The Embarcadero at Beach Streets. Three resident river otters join in daily holiday festivities through December 28. aquariumofthebay.org/tis-the-season MCC San Francisco Christmas Day Services – 12 pm & 6 pm @ 1300 Polk Street.

All are welcome. mccsf.org Holiday Ice Rink Union Square – 10 am @ Union Square, Stockton and Post. unionsquareicerink.com

26 : Monday Sing-Along Sound of Music – Repeats through January 1 @ Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street.

Hosted by Sara Moore and Laurie Bushman, an annual Castro Theatre event. castrotheatre.com.

The Nutcracker – Repeats through December 29 @ War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Avenue. San Francisco Ballet’s annual presentation of the classic program. sfballet.org/nutcracker Macy’s Cats & Dogs Holiday Windows – Repeats through January 1 @ Macy’s Union Square, 170 O’Farrell Street. SF SPCA presents cats and dogs ready for adoption. holiday. sfspca.org

27 : Tuesday

6 pm @ Congregation Sha’ar Zahav, 290 Dolores Street. shaarzahav.org Gertrude Stein and a Companion by Win Wells – 8 pm @ Eureka Theatre, 215 Jackson Street. Presented by Theatre Rhinoceros, the show directed by Kathryn L. Wood and John Fisher repeats through January 8. therhino.org

29 : Thursday Cinema Twain with Val Kilmer Appearing Live – Repeats December 30 @ The Stage Theatre, 490 S. 1st Street, San Jose.

Kilmer will introduce the one-man play about Mark Twain. thestage.org Straight No Chaser: I’ll Have Another – 7:30 pm @ Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Avenue. 20th Anniversary Tour. The 10 man a-cappella group returns to San Francisco.

30 : Friday Hanukkah Frydays – 4 pm @ Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, 3200 California Street.

Honoring Hanukkah’s fried food tradition. jccsf.org NYE with Unknown Mortal Orchestra – 9 pm @ The Independent, 628 Divisadero Street. apeconcerts.com/events/unknownmortal-orchestra/

31 :Saturday Paula Poundstone Headlines the Nourse – 8 pm @ Nourse Theatre, 275 Hayes Street. A quickthinking, unscripted comic wellknown to LGBTQ audiences. facebook.com/PaulaPoundstone/?fref=nf Red Hot Mama – The Sophie Tucker Songbook starring Sharon McNight – 9 pm @ Cinnabar Theatre, 3333 Petaluma Blvd N., Petaluma. Repeats through January 28. cinnabartheater.org New Year’s Eve Masquerade – 8 pm @ The Starlight Room, 432 Powell Street (atop the Sir Frances Drake Hotel). A “Black & White” affair to ring in the new year. electrostub.com/events Brava’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Fiesta – 8 pm @ Brava Theater Center, 2781 24th Street.

Fifth annual laugh fest featuring Marga Gomez, Tom Ammiano, Carla Clayy and special guests Butch Escobar and Chey Bell and host Priya Prasad. brava.org Steve Silver’s Beach Blanket Babylon Holiday Extravaganza – 5 pm & 8 pm @ Club Fugazi, 678 Green Street. The annual tradition features a chorus line of dancing Christmas trees, parodies of traditional Christmas carols and the legendary gigantic Yuletide hat. beachblanketbabylon.com

Cirque de Soleil Luzia – 8 pm @ AT&T Ballpark, Parking Lot A. A walking dream of Mexico. cirquedusoleil.com/luzia The 2016 Naughty & Nice Holiday Art Shop – 10 am repeating through December 30 @ Creativity Explored, 3245 16th Street. Blessed by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. creativityexplored.org

28 : Wednesday Hanukkah in the Castro –

PHOTO BY RINK

19 : Monday

A rainbow holiday wreath installed again at Jane Warner Plaza, placed by the Castro/ Upper Market CBD

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SISTER DANA (continued from page 25) “We have to honor and respect those who went through this horrible, horrible epidemic,” said White-Ginder.

“Too many people we loved were lost and the Hemophilia community needs to come together to share our stories and communicate with one another the sadness and the sorrow, but also the joy that maybe nobody has to live with this again.”

Recognizing that today’s youth will ensure past generations are never forgotten, ten college students from around the country were awarded scholarships as part of the NATIONAL AIDS MEMORIAL PEDRO ZAMORA YOUNG LEADERS SCHOLARSHIP AWARD PROGRAM to pursue their education and for their active commitment to fighting AIDS and taking on roles of public service and leadership in the community. The World AIDS Day ceremony concluded with supporters gathering for the reading of the names of those engraved this year into the Circle of Friends, which is now at capacity.

We joined ACADEMY OF FRIENDS at their annual “HOLIDAY PARTY,” commemorating WORLD AIDS DAY, and helped them support Bay Area HIV/AIDS service organizations. Through the generous support of their sponsor WILLIAMS-SONOMA UNION SQUARE, we enjoyed live entertainment, festive cocktails, and bites prepared by the Williams-Sonoma chefs while shopping for all our holiday essentials. Matthew Denckla, AoF Vice Chair, called for a moment of silence in remembrance of those who had died from AIDS. He introduced Gil Padia, Board Chair, who spoke about the upcoming world’s premier “ACADEMY AWARDS NIGHT CHARITY GALA” as the centerpiece of its efforts to raise funds, award donations, and encourage volunteerism that benefit a diverse set of HIV/AIDS organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Save the date for their 2017 Gala, Sunday, February 26, at The Midway SF, 900 Marin Street, 5–11:30 pm. Everyone at the Gala will enjoy foods provided by the Bay Area’s finest restaurants and caterers, wine and champagne by amazing vintners along with a fun way to watch the 2017 Oscars. There is always incredible live entertainment, then DJ dancing until the doors close. 100% of ticket sales will be distributed to their six HIV/AIDS services beneficiaries: including AIDS Legal Referral Panel (ALRP), Aguilas El Ambiente, Maitri Compassionate Care, Openhouse, San Francisco Suicide Prevention: HIV Nightline and Spectrum LGBTQ Program at The Spahr Center/Marin Aids Project. academyoffriends.org To commemorate World AIDS Day there was a live two-light installation atop the third floor of STRUT in the Castro, which flashed at regular intervals, symbolizing the rate of new HIV infection (every 15 seconds with yellow light) and the rate of lives lost to the illness (every 20 seconds with red light). Strut is the home for health and wellness in the heart of the Castro. They are a program of San Francisco AIDS Foundation, and their three-fold mission is to promote the health and wellness of gay, bi & trans men, to strengthen the diverse communities, and to reduce the impact of HIV in San Francisco. To that end, the art reception, “GOODLUCK …

MISS YOU TOO” included an installation performance by visual artist AARON KISSMAN. The artist’s statement: “My work regularly investigates modern day stigma cen-

tered on HIV/AIDS from a personal experience. Themes of negotiation of intimacy and diagnosis; questions of isolation, failed communications, apathy, and disclosure are all investigated and re-examined in a ‘post’ AIDS crisis environment. Through modes of photography, video, sculpture, and installation—I continue to unapologetically push the conversation through work that is both arresting and spectacular.” Kissman’s art remains on the Strut gallery walls, metaphorically illustrating his journey from first learning of his HIV diagnosis three years ago (“Goodluck”) in Hawaii (thus the lush foliage in the photo) to the present (“Miss You Too”—with an icy cold mountain top) of those who have died from AIDS. strutsf.org HELP IS ON THE WAY FOR THE HOLIDAYS XV was the annual holiday celebration for everyone.

The RICHMOND/ERMET AID FOUNDATION (REAF)’s 15th anniversary holiday gala took place at the Marines’ Memorial Theater. ‘twas an evening of love, hope, and compassion—for this is the true spirit of the holidays and our hope for this nation. The tone for the evening was set while we still wrestle with postelection disappointment and anger, and with the Oakland Ghost Ship tragedy breaking our hearts. REAF producers Ken Henderson (executive director/CEO) and Joe Seiler (chairman of the board) opened the show. The star-studded night benefited the ASIAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER WELLNESS PROGRAM and LARKIN STREET YOUTH SERVICES. A special award was presented to decade-long board of director Beth Schnitzer for her service at REAF (and many other worthy charitable organizations) by former Mayor Willie Brown.

Just a few of the talented performers included cast members from the Tony award-winning Disney’s The Lion King, cast members from the national tour of the Lincoln Center Theater production of Rodgers & Hammertstein’s The King and I, Jason Graae (as the singing sad Scrooge) and cast members from 42nd Street Moon’s Scrooge in Love. Broadway, TV and recording stars Maureen McGovern sang a lively Christmas medley & Sam Harris gave us two emotional pieces once requested by Oprah Winfrey for her “Songs of Healing” program airing soon after the horrible 9/11 catastrophe—becoming all too relevant again with the current Oakland warehouse disaster), “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” and “Walk On: You’ll Never Walk Alone”).

Cabaret stars included Paula West (with a silky smooth jazz version of “Chestnuts Roasting in an Open Fire”), Jason Brock (with an extremely uplifting “I Believe I Can Fly”—including an aside: “I believe we can overcome Trump”); Sharon McNight (with an hilarious song about being “Raised by Elves”); & Carly Ozard (with the—at first cynical and then hopeful—”Just in Time for Christmas You Came Along”). Since most of the audience was gay or gay-friendly, it behooved two of the male stars from The Lion King to do a medley of Broadway show tunes. Ah, but not the male roles. Nope, the famous female roles and songs—ranging from Barbra to Angela Lansbury to every imaginable Lady of the Stage. The otherwise masculine duo released their inner stage actress to give us everything from “We’re your Dream Girls” to “I Enjoy Being a Girl.” Hysteri-

cal! McNight returned to the stage to sing the anti-holiday pessimistic, sarcastic “Laughing Matters”—giving a rundown as to why these dark days are no “laughing matters;” but positively concluding that this is why laughing matters so much these days.

McGovern returned to sing “Ordinary Miracles” and then brought onto the stage the entire cast to sing “White Christmas” (the San Francisco version, of course”) and encourage all of us to sing along with gusto!

After the show, we went to the lovely VIP after-party at the Clift Hotel to congratulate the fabulous performers.

RAINBOW WORLD FUND held a private reception in the lovely home of John Newmeyer to welcome Orlando Pulse Nightclub survivors Ilka Reyes Malpica, Mayra and Daniel Alvear to San Francisco. RWF Executive Director Jeff Cotter introduced Ilka, Mayra, and Daniel who were in town from Florida to light the WORLD TREE OF HOPE at San Francisco City Hall the next night. In the attack that claimed 49 lives, Ilka survived nine shots, and Mayra and Daniel Alvear lost their beloved daughter Amanda. Also speaking was Iris Martinez Cintron, who was not in the club, but she had many friends who died, and she has become a huge support to the survivors—particularly the monolingual Spanish-speaking parents and family members. Mayra handed out sweet #Orlando United & #HugsNotHate rainbow bracelets.

Mayra was also the stunning lead soprano when we gathered around the grand piano to sing carols and Broadway show tunes.

RAINBOW WORLD FUND (RWF) invited the public to the 11th Annual RWF WORLD TREE OF HOPE OFFICIAL TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION. This year’s tree was dedicated to the victims and survivors of the Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting. There was a concert by the Grammy-winning San Francisco Boys Chorus to open the ceremony. RWF Executive Director Jeff Cotter introduced the emcees, Emmy award-winning journalist Cheryl Jennings and Donna Sachet. Orlando Pulse night club survivor Ilka Reyes Malpica and Mayra Alvear, mother of her slain daughter Amanda, spoke in an emotional account of the Orlando tragedy. Iris Martinez Cintron talked about being a needed volunteer in the days following the attack.

Origami expert Linda Mihara instructed us in the making of paper cranes. Mayor Ed Lee was in China and could not participate this year with Consul General Jun Yamada exchanging peace cranes. Interfaith Consul Director Michael Pappas led a healing ritual. Students from the Japanese Community Youth Counsel read some of the wishes inscribed on the cranes. Rev. Debra Johnson spoke. A duo from the cast of The Lion King performed “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”

Veronica Klaus sang beautifully accompanied by Tammy Hall on keyboard. Sister Kitty Catalyst, Sister Guard N.O.Pansies, and Sister Dana of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence blessed the tree in prose and litany. And we all counted down dramatically from ten to zero for the very anticipated tree lighting.

The RWF World Tree of Hope is a holiday tree decorated with thousands of white origami cranes, each containing written notes of hope & peace from children and individuals from around the world. The tree

is a gift from members of the LGBT community to the world—given to inspire hope and promote peace, love and humanitarianism. It will be on display all through the holidays.

ARTSAVESLIVES, the Castro gallery and studio, presented another glorious reception and party for more than twenty local artists’ works—curated by studio owner/artist THOMASINA DE MAIO. The show is hanging now through December the 31—open every day but Monday from 12 to 4 pm at 518 Castro Street. This is a non-commission gallery, where all sales go to the artists. The Friday night event was stellar as usual: Kristine Wilson emceed: opening with breathtaking opera by Julia Austenfeld; graceful modern dance by Scarlett Astrid; the Jefferson Airplane classic, “White Rabbit,” sung

by Whitney Moses; a sing-along

by Nancy Connolly; and one of SF’s famous drag Cockettes, Carl Linkhart, and his band, People, who rocked out with their Cockettes out.

This year’s (31st annual) DANCEALONG NUTCRACKER included a dazzling array of local celebrities at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in a fun fundraiser for the SAN FRANCISCO LESBIAN/GAY FREEDOM BAND. Written by San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band’s own trumpeter Heidi Beeler, “THE FANTASTIC ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN NUTCRACKER” took us on a wild and crazy adventure in “Metro Cisco” as we were thrust into the world of villains and superheroes. Sister Dana wore a red, green, and gold ballet skirt with red shirt, green leggings, and red tennies—perfect for both dancing and fighting villains! Under the baton of SFLGFB’s Artistic Director Pete Nowlen, Flynn De Marco directed with choreography

by Marilynn Fowler. It starred Ruby Vixen as Clara; Flynn De Marco (co-creator) as Captain Nutcracker & Father Stahlbaum; Dee Nathaniel as Fritz; Drew Todd as evil Dr. Ratopolis; Cameron Eng as Uncle Drosselmeyer; and Marilynn Fowler as Lady Moonshadow & Mother Stahlbaum.

SISTER DANA SEZ, “GET OUT FROM UNDER THAT MISTLETOE AND GO CHECK OUT THESE COOL EVENTS!” SALVATION SISTERS is the annual takeoff on the Salvation Army bell ringers, but in the Castro on Saturday, December 17. This will be preceded by caroling in the Castro

by The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence from 3–5 pm and then the Salvation Sisters bell ringing for donations, followed by more caroling.

Please give to LGBTQ charities.

Take 4 talented drag performers, cast them in two new Xmas episodes of the uproariously funny TV show: THE GOLDEN GIRLS, and you have an assured night of theatre for the entire family. The four drag stars playing the characters the entire world has come to know and love are Heklina (dry-witted, sarcastic Dorothy), Matthew Martin (over-sexed senior slut Blanche), D’Arcy Drollinger (dim-witted bimbo Rose), and Holotta Tymes (aged, wisecracking Sophia). Manuel Caneri plays three different gentleman callers, and Tom Shaw plays piano with carol sing-alongs during scene changes. THE GOLDEN GIRLS: THE CHRISTMAS EPISODES 2016 is superbly directed by Matthew Martin. Cos-

tumes have many changes by Daffney D’Luxe. Heklina’s voiceover will caution you not to talk or shout out familiar lines—lest you be sent to Shady Pines. However, feel free to sing along with theme song, “Thank You for Being a Friend.” Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th Street & Mission. Now through December 23, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 8 pm/ Sunday, 7 pm. Xmas Bonus: 3 added shows December 21, 22, 23.

GoldenGirlsSF.com In response to the tragedy of the Oakland Warehouse Fire on December 2 that caused 36 deaths confirmed to date, and survivor victims, (KDK) KREWE DE KINQUE’s DECEMBER BEER BUST BENEFIT & SHOW will support the “FIRE RELIEF FUND FOR VICTIMS OF THE GHOST SHIP OAKLAND FIRE” organized by Gray Area Foundation for the Arts, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that has been involved in the greater Bay Area artist community for the last 10 years. The fundraiser will be on December 17, 4–7 pm at the Edge. We also will have a Moment of Silence to honor the victims and their loved ones. To maximize our proceeds, our hosts Miss Eva Sensitiva & Absolute Empress XLII Chika Diva have assembled a fantastic show with tips going to the Fire Fund. We’ll have our usual $10 Beer & Soda Bust and usual KDK shenanigans. Our Festive Performers include: KDK Queen XIII China Silk, Miss Gay SF Piper McGroin, KDK Queen V Cockatielia, KDK Queen II Deana Dawn, Patrice Samek, Gem N’Aye, Leilani Price, Absolute Empress XLVIII Patty McGroin, & live singing by Mark Alan. KDK Queen VII Sister Dana will take your dollars at the door.

“KATYA … THE GYPSY IN ME” is Monday, December 17, at 8 pm in The Rrazz Room at Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason Street. Join San Francisco’s favorite Russian redhead, the COUNTESS KATYA SMIRNOFF-SKYY at The Rrazz Room for her most favorite show, Katya’s Holiday Spectacular, an evening of song, storytelling, holiday cheer ... and vodka ... lots of it. russianoperadiva.com The December GOLDEN GATE GAYME (3G) NIGHT is on December 21, 7–10 pm at Lookout bar in the Castro, 3600 16th Street. Come join Mr. & Miss Golden Gate if you’re ready for more games or join in on the holiday fun if you missed the last one! The vision of this event is to use their titles as the Golden Gates to “bridge” the community by extending invitations out to other groups/organizations to join 3G Night as a social mixer to get to meet and learn more about each other in a (mostly) relaxed and casual setting (some of the games can get a little wild!) This month they are featuring THE SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE. They’re at Lookout every 3rd Wednesday of each month with lots of games and game performance-enhancers (aka jello shots!) Net proceeds will go to the Rainbow World Fund. Drop by for some casual fun with great company!

Sister Dana sez, “Happy HoliGAYS and have a Queer New Year!!!

Wishing Happy Holidays and a Wonderful New Year to All from the San Francisco Bay Times! www.sfbaytimes.com 34

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Fall and Holiday Seasons - All Over Town

Photos by RINK

Brightly lit trees form a glistening gauntlet along the tracks at the Powell and Market Street cable car turnaround.

The sparkling wreaths light up the storefront at Macy’s on Geary at Union Square.

The Macy’s Holiday Tree at Union Square with the St. Francis Hotel as its backdrop

Maitri’s Toni Newman with Academy of Friend’s Gil Padia and Beth Feingold at Williams-Sonoma

PR maven Beth Schnitzer and Celebrity Cruises’ LaTonya Lawson paused for a photo op at the Academy of Friends event at Williams-Sonoma.

Academy of Friends board member Todd Creel (right) and a guest at Williams-Sonoma

Williams-Sonoma at Union Square welcomed LGBT community members and friends to a holiday benefit for the Academy of Friends

Host James Holloway (left) with Donna Sachet, Jerrrey Doney and Xavier Caylor at the “Merry and Bright” holiday party

The Zuckerberg SF General Hospital’s heart along with lighted palm trees create a frame for the tree and wreath’s at Macy’s in Union Square.

Publicist Lawrence Helman and Frameline’s Kevin Schaub at the Larsen Associates holiday party

Host James Holloway (right) welcomed Mark Leno to the “Merry and Bright” holiday party in the Castro.

Programmer Jennifer Morris (right) with Vince Johnson and Karen Larsen at the Larsen Associates holiday party

Host Karen Larsen (center) with Nancy Fishman and Diana Fuller at the Larsen Associates holiday party held at Victory Hall and Piper Moderator Sampada Aranke (left) with youth scholars Julian WongNelson, Elena Gross and Stahis Gerostathopoulis who spoke at the GLBT Historical Society Museum’s Emerging Queer Visual Culture event

Immune Enhancement Project’s Debi Shargel, comic Marga Gomez and gallery coordinator Thomasina DeMaio at the Art Saves Lives Exhibit Opening Night at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Castro location

Yurik Riegel with his paintings at the Art Saves Lives Exhibit opening at AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Angels of Light veteran Carl Linkhart (right) performed with his band at the Art Saves Lives Exhibit opening at AIDS Healthcare Foundation.

Angels of Light veteran Carl LInkhart at the Art Saves Live Exhibit opening at AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Coordinator Jared Hemming (right) of the SF AIDS Foundation with friends participating in the highly successful Bridgemen Toy Drive and Holiday Party held at Strut on Castro Street S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES DEC EM BER 15, 2016

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