Bay Times looks at the historic Castro Theatre Page 11
Dr. Betty Sullivan remembers Whitney Houston Page 8
Gary Kramer predicts 2012 Oscar Winners Pages 2 and 13
The LGBTQ Newspaper and Events Calendar for the San Francisco Bay Area | July 28 2011 www.sfbaytimes.com
February 23-March 7, 2012 | www.sfbaytimes.com
/SanFranciscoBayTimes
The Oscars: Who Should Win and Who Will Win
PHOTO: SPECIAL TO BAY TIM ES BY M ARIO PIPERN I ( M ARIOP IP ERN I.C OM )
PHOTO SOURCE: M OTION P IC T URE AC AD EM Y OF ARTS & SC IEN C ES
President Obama Visits SF
/SFBayTimes
By Gary M. Kramer
Artist rendering of President Obama and accompanying LGBTQ symbols.
By Betty Sullivan & Jennifer Viegas A sold out crowd estimated at 3000, including more than 200 LGBT community members and allies, attended a fundraiser at San Francisco’s Masonic Auditorium on February 16th to hear President Barack Obama speak. Rock musician Chris Cornell of Soundgarden entertained during the program. Organized by Jim Haas of the Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club and
Kathy Levinson, Obama for America LGBT National Finance Committee co-chair, the LGBT group included those who paid the $100 general admission seat ticket price and others who paid $1000 for VIP seating and a photo with the President.
“People left there so excited about the passion he brings and his commitment to the idea that everybody has a fighting chance, even if you started from a tough place,” Levinson told the Bay Times. “This country is ideally about everybody having a chance and about fairness.”
A not able moment ca me when Obama emphasized his conviction that it shouldn’t matter who you love when you serve your country. A 30 second standing ovation followed.
By the end of the event, people felt moved and appreciative, she reported. “One of my friends talked about the energy and excitement in the room and how the President looked her in
the eye when he shook her hand,” Levinson said. “He spoke from his heart that he really cares about restoring the American dream.” Cornell helped to establish a contemplative mood for the evening, including John Lennon’s “Imagine” and a version of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” in his set. The latter honored Whitney Houston, who memorably recorded the Parton song and died just 5 days before the San Francisco event. (continued on page 17)
World premiere: No Secret Anymore, The Times of Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon 2/3/2003.
A lt hough Hol ly wood usua l ly grabs the spotlight this Academy Aw a r d s mo nt h , t he B a y T i m e s wou ld l i ke to s h i ne some wel ldeser ved l ight on our ver y ow n Castro Theatre, which is so much more than an historic San Franc i s c o mov ie pa l a c e. For m a n y it fe e l s l i k e a s a c r e d m e e t i n g g rou nd , prov id i ng com for t a nd connection when we most need it, such as on Christmas Eve, other important occasions and even just a quiet night after work. Desig ner Timothy Pf lueger (189 4 -19 4 6) never ma r r ied a nd
instead poured his immense energ ies and talents into his creative work . He f i r s t l it t he C a st r o’s spir itual spark when it was built in 1922, choosing a design remin iscent of a Mex ica n cat hed ra l for the exterior. T he Cast ro’s inter ior br ing s to g e t h e r S p a n i s h , O r i e nt a l a n d Ita l ian desig n elements, but t he ef fect is pure fantasy. Even before mov ies or show s beg i n, v isitor s can lose their thoughts in classic mot if mura ls, which were created in a rare wet plaster process called “scraf itto.”
Best Picture The Artist, The Descendants, Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, The Help, Hugo, Midnight in Paris, Moneyball, Tree of Life, War Horse. What Should Win: Hugo was the best film of last year, an enchanting story of cinema masterfully told. What Will Win: The Artist, another enchanting story of cinema that is masterfully told, and pretty much a lock to win. Best Actor Demián Bichir, A Better Life, George Clooney, The Descendants, Jean Dujardin, The Artist, Gary Oldman, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Brad Pitt, Moneyball Who Should Win: Brad Pitt, who proved in Tree of Life and Moneyball that he is an amazing, accomplished actor.
PHOTO BY DAN I EL NI COLE TTA
PHOTO COURTE SY OF WOMAN VI SI ON
Castro Theatre Strengthens Our Community
The 84th Academy Awards will take place Sunday, February 26, at 7:00 pm Eastern Time, and while many viewers will care more about who wears what, here are some educated guesses on how to fill out the ballot for an Oscar pool.
Castro Theatre dressed up for the world premiere of MILK, 11/29/2008.
T he t he a t e r h a s e v o l v e d o v e r the decades, ref lecting the needs and neighborhood culture of the times. In 1937, an Art Deco chandelier was added. During the 40’s, t he Ca st ro helped Sa n Fra ncis cans cope with World War II. The 50’s showcased Technicolor musica l extravaganzas. The Theatre held its own during the turbulent 60’s, and 1976 was a year of major cha nge, w it h t he ex h ibit ion format transit ioning from mainstream f ilms to repertory cinema, foreig n f i l ms, f i l m fest iva ls and special f irst run presentations.
A t pr e s ent , t he C a s t r o i s we l coming new General Manager of O p e r a t i o n s D o n N a s s e r, w h o br i n g s mor e t h a n a d e c a d e of ex per ience work ing in f i l m a nd v e nu e o p e r a t i o n s . P r e v i o u s l y, book ing was hand led out side of San Francisco, but Nasser is now handling it in house. “By bringing the programming home we will be connecting the world to our community and project our community to the world,” he said. Like an old fr iend, the Castro cont inues to grow and change while retaining its power and presence within our lives.
Who Will Win: Jean Dujardin in The Artist. Clooney was the favorite in this category, but The Artist has a groundswell of support, and will pull ahead. Besides, Oscar tends to award international stars more than it does Americans. Best Actress Glenn Close, Albert Nobbs, Viola Davis, The Help, Rooney Mara, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Meryl Streep, The Iron Lady, Michelle Williams, My Week with Marilyn Who Should Win: Anyone but Streep, who continues to give hammy performances (see Doubt, Julia and Julia, etc.) that get the Academy’s attention. Glenn Close, because she has six nominations and no Oscars. (continued on page 13)
Department of Justice Will Not Defend DOMA
P HOTO SOURC E: SL DN
of Department of Defense policy guidance on the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the commitment from senior Pentagon leaders to study this issue and create a path to equality for all ser v ice members. In a letter to Panetta, Sa r v is had enu merated speci f ic benef it s t hat may be con fer red under existing law.
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aurbrey Sarvis
By Dennis McMillan T he Depa r t ment of Just ice ha s sent a let ter to Hou se S pea ker John Boehner ( R-OH ) stating its position with respect to McLaughlin et al v. Panetta et al, which challenges t he so - ca l led Defense of Marr iage Act ( DOM A) and federal statutes related to benef its for t he spouses of ser v ice member s and veterans. “We are pleased that the Attorney General has decided not to defend the constitutionality of DOM A in t he m i l it a r y contex t , just a s he has declined to defend it in other contexts,” said Army Veteran and S er v icemember s L eg a l Defen se Net work Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis. “We are also delighted that, for the f irst time, he has
Advertise with the Bay Times.
said that separate def initions that appl y t o m i l it a r y vet er a n s a r e also unconstitutional. This is an important step for the McLaughlin plaintif fs.” SL DN is a nonpar t isa n, nonprof it, lega l ser v ices a nd pol ic y organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equalit y to America’s military and ending all for ms of d iscr iminat ion and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Sarvis had called upon Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta to take i m med iate act ion on equa l recognition, benef its and family suppor t for gay and lesbian ser v ice members as we approach the oneyea r a n n iver sa r y of t he relea se
“The year that has passed since t he Depar t ment of Defense sa id it would continue to study this issue should have been more than enough time for it to come to agree w ith the Comprehensive Rev iew Work ing Group’s v iew that fairness a nd equa l it y shou ld be t he order of t he day when it comes to a l low i ng ser v ice member s to designate a person of their choosing for existing militar y benef its wherever t here is not a rest r ict ion i mposed by t he Defense of Marriage Act,” Sarvis wrote. “To date, they have not done that, and for ser v ice members af fected by this, every day they delay matters to them and their families.” In Aug ust 2011, SL DN had sent a let ter to Pa net t a out l in ing s p e c i f i c b e n e f it s t h a t m a y b e con fer red upon gay a nd lesbia n service members without conf lict with the Defense of Marriage Act ( DOM A). I n t hat let ter, Sa r v i s asked Panetta to do all in his aut hor it y to add ress t he l i nger i ng i nequ it ies i n t he a rea s of fa mily support, pay and benef its that will exist for gay and lesbian service members following the repeal of DA DT.
Academy of Friends Gala Announced
Now – April 2012 Voyager of the Seas® Mariner of the Seas®
7-Night Western Caribbean
7-Night Western Caribbean
New Orleans, Louisiana • Cozumel, Mexico George Town, Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica New Orleans, Louisiana Starting from: $399†*
Galveston, Texas • Roatán, Honduras Belize City, Belize • Galveston, Texas Starting from: $449†*
Oasis of the Seas®
7-Night Western Caribbean
Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Labadee®, Haiti Falmouth, Jamaica • Cozumel, Mexico • Fort Lauderdale, Florida Starting from: $1,325†*
BOOK NOW AND RECEIVE A PASSPORT TO SAVINGS COUPON BOOKLET, UP TO $200 VALUE!
American Express Travel Walnut Creek 1645 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 938-0800 (800) 964-6593 walnutcreekctn@aexp.com
San Francisco 455 Market St. San Francisco, CA. 94105 (415) 536-2600 (800) 551-0210 embarcaderoctn@aexp.com
†ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL® RESERVES THE RIGHT TO IMPOSE A FUEL SUPPLEMENT OF UP TO $10 PER GUEST PER DAY ON ALL GUESTS IF THE PRICE OF WEST TEXAS INTERMEDIATE FUEL EXCEEDS $65.00 PER BARREL. *Prices are per person, cruise only, double occupancy, and in U.S. Dollars. All itineraries and prices are subject to change without notice. Certain restrictions apply. Government taxes and fees are additional. ©2012 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registry: The Bahamas. American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. acts solely as sales agent for travel suppliers and is not responsible for the actions or inactions of such suppliers. We want you to be aware that certain suppliers pay us commissions and other incentives, and may also provide incentives to our travel counselors. CST#1022318-10. 11026196 • 01/05/2012
2 BAY TIMES FEBRUA RY 23, 2012
PHOTO BY RI N K
SPEND YOUR HOLIDAY IN THE CARIBBEAN!
MC Donna Sachet pulls winning raffle ticket at the 2011 Academy of Friends.
By Dennis McMillan Academy of Friends (AoF ) announced the select ion of f ive HI V/A IDS agencies covering multiple Bay Area counties as the benef iciaries of money to be ra ised at t he 32nd A nnual Academy of Fr iends Gala. Academy of Friends has been one of t he lead ing cont r ibutors to the Bay Area’s frontline battle against HIV/AIDS, and has t hus far d istr ibuted $8.5 mi l lion to 72 d if ferent agenc ies over t he pa st 31 yea r s. T h i s yea r’s g a l a , “ S c a nd a lous,” is scheduled for the night of the Holly wood Oscar telecast on Sunday, Feb. 26 at the SF Des ig n C enter Ga l ler i a , 101 Henry Adams Street, from 5 until 11pm. Add res s i ng 15 0 V I P u nderwriters and guests at a special “Toast to t he Nom inees” reception hosted by the Bubble
L ounge on Ja nua r y 26 , AoF B oa r d Ch a i r How a r d E delman commented, “T he need to raise money for A IDS Services in San Francisco is real. We have an opportunity right now to make a dif ference for ou r f i v e b e n e f i c i a r i e s w ho have asked for our suppor t Huckleberry Youth Programs, M a it r i , S h a nt i , Te n d e r lo i n Health and the Women’s HIV Program at UCSF.” Ticket sa les d i rect ly benef it t hese agencies, and t hey are counting on the community of San Francisco to step up and buy tickets to the event in their support. To become a 2012 underwriter, cor por ate sponsor, lea r n more about this year’s Gala or simply to volunteer, please call (415) 995 -9890 or visit Academyof Friends.org.
HIV/AIDS News New Studies Show Which AntiHIV Drug Combinations Work Better Than Others, and Why
AIDS experts at Johns Hopkins have calculated precisely how well dozens of anti-HIV drugs work, alone or in any of 857 likely combinations, in suppressing the virus. Results of the team’s latest research reveal how some combinations work better than others at impeding viral replication, and keeping the disease in check. “Our study results should help researchers and clinicians develop simpler treatments, using either existing or new drugs, for people who are just starting therapy or people who have already tried and developed resistance to another combination,” said senior study investigator and infectious disease specialist Robert Siliciano. Siliciano and his team’s findings, published in the journal Nature Medicine, provide valuable information and can help in streamlining and tailoring so-called highly active antiretroviral therapy, or HAART, to as few possible drugs as needed. Several hundred thousand of the more than 1 million Americans living with HIV disease are currently using HAART to fight the disease. Among the latest study’s key findings was that the most potent drug combos included the drugs efavirenz (a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor) and darunavir (a protease inhibitor.) According to the Hopkins
team’s calculations, the drug mix suppressed viral replication by more than a trillion times, enough to prevent infection of every single lymphocyte, or immune system cell, of which there are a trillion in the body. The least-powerful drug was found to be one of the oldest anti-HIV medications, d4T, or stavudine (a nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor), which had the power to suppress viral replication by less than 10 times if used on its own (although, Siliciano points out, it works much better when taken in combination with other drugs). Siliciano says the most widely used combination, a single pill known as Atripla, consisting of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (a nucleotide analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor), emtricitabine (a nucleoside analogue reverse transcr iptase inhibitor), and efavirenz, was able to reduce viral replication to as few as one in a billion. Scientists have for decades focused on multiple drugs targeting different enzymes that are key to the viral life cycle. Although the strategy worked, scientists had, until now, no theory to explain why some drug combinations worked well and others did not. Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine Larger Belly Linked to Memory Problems in People with HIV A larger waistline may be linked to an increased risk of decreased men-
tal functioning in people infected with the AIDS virus HIV, according to research published in Neurolog y®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. “Interestingly, bigger waistlines were linked to decreased mental functioning more than was general obesity,” said study author J. Allen McCutchan of the University of California, San Diego. “This is important because certain anti-HIV drugs cause weight gain in the center of the body that is most dramatic in the abdomen, neck, chest and breasts.” People with memory and concentration problems had waist circumferences of an average of 39 inches, compared to 35 inches for those without memory difficulties. The mental challenges were also linked to older age, a longer time living with HIV and diabetes in people older than 55 years. For example, five times as many people with memory problems also had diabetes compared to those with no memory problems. “Avoiding those HIV drugs that cause larger waistlines might protect or help to reverse (the memory and concentration problems),” said McCutchan. He added, however, “People with HIV should talk to their doctors before considering changes in their anti-HIV medications.” Source: American Academy of Neurolog y
Sister Dana Sez ready have, prov id ing resources to secure new housing and pro mot i ng publ ic pol ic y to ex pa nd oppor t u n it y for a l l.” Kd K i s a volunteer ba sed orga n i zat ion made up of indiv iduals (gay and straight) who care about GLBT issues with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion. SFK inque.com.
Sister Dana Van Iquity wonders why so long after Mardi Gras there is still a massive amount of beads and glitter all over his body K rewe de K inque threw a fabu lous M a rd i Gr a s ma sked ba l l, “Occupy Bourbon St reet: Par t y w i t h t h e N a u g h t y - n i n e% ! ” a t Trigger. The décor was all Mardi Gras themed from the pur ple, g r e e n a n d g o l d b a l l o o n n e c klaces by Coy Ellison to the giant gold glitter comedy and tragedy mask s. Par t iers wore color fu l m a s k s a nd c o st u mes , d i ned on aut hent ic N ’Awl i ns cu isi ne a nd drank delicious Stoli vodka cocktails, including f laming chocolate decadence. Sister Da na went as a bi l l ion a i r e nu n , b e c au s e t he Church is not taxed, and we are the wealthy 1%. It was the steppi ng dow n of Kd K Q ueen V I I Garza and King VII Frank Vera, and the crowning of Queen V III Bebe Sweetbr iar and K ing V I I I Tony Leo. Brian Basinger, execut ive d i rec tor of A I D S Hou s i ng A l liance/SF spoke about his organization, the benef iciary of the night. “A IDS Housing A lliance/ SF believes in a world where all people have a safe, decent, and affordable home,” he said. “Toward that v ision we prevent homelessness for people w it h H I V/A I DS by protecting the housing we al-
I at tended a n elega nt recept ion for Re present at ive Ba rba r a Lee, presented by Miguel Bustos and emceed by Donna Sachet at 12 Ga l l a gher L a ne a r t g a l ler y. Rep. Lee is also vice chair of the LGBT caucus. Lee said, thanks to the Tea Party Republicans, there w i l l be more a nd more da mage to repa i r on t he H i l l. She sa id it wa s a rel ief to be a mong her const it uent s who “ i nspi red a nd motivated” her, and commented, “We need to do everything we can to get back the House.” She was t h r i l led to h ave helped get t he next International A IDS Conference in Washington D.C. in July, jok i ng she w ished it cou ld have been in Oakland. She told me she agreed we need to abolish the ridiculously unnecessar y Electoral College system. Rep. Lee has the distinction of being the only congressperson to vote against going to war in Iraq. Darrell Mcelvane and BeBe Sweetbriar hosted a fun, fabulous “Divas K araoke 2” for the Stop A I D S/O u r L ove pr og r a m (en gaging gay, bi and trans A frican Americans in HIV risk-reduction and the promotion of community he a lt h a nd we l l nes s) at Q - ba r. Special guests were Carla Blackwell singing “At Last” by the late Etta James and f LO (CallMeFlo. com) si ng i ng a n or ig i na l, “ You Can Look, But Don’t Touch” and her latest v ideo, “N-R- G.” Bebe
Sweetbriar sang a gorgeous tribut e t o t he l at e, g r e at W h it ne y Houston with “I Have Nothing.” Our Love’s Terry Dyer sang “The Way You L o ok Ton i g ht .” T he Amer ican Idle judges were Ter r y, Sister Hera Tique, Emperor John Weber and Norman Tanner. First pr i ze went to Posit ive Resource C enter D i rector Bret t A nd rew s for a spectacular a cappella tribute to Whitney with “The Greate s t L o v e ; ” 1s t r u n n e r - u p w a s “L ady” L ennie; and yours tr u ly garnered 2nd runner-up with my “ Ebb Tide.” M a ndy Ca ndy got “Most Congenia l” for her “ bold attempt at melody and rhythm.” M a rk R hoa des pr o duc ed a de l ight fu l Cupid’s Back 6t h A nnu a l Va lent i ne’s D ay Pa r t y t o benef it the GLBT Historical Societ y w it h specia l g uest DJ a nd drag queen extraordinaire Juanita More. There was an open bar w it h Ketel One vod k a a nd Don Julio tequila all night long. Party g uest s were “ hea r t i ly ” encou raged to wea r Va lent i ne’s red or pink to match the ambiance and décor. M a rk Huest is brought t he cla s sic L ove Story and its still beautif u l st a r, A l i Ma cG r aw, to t he Castro Theatre with juicy gossip about her “moody but nice” co star Ryan O’Nea l, her producer husband Bob Evans, and her torr id a f fa ir w it h Steve McQueen. Hu e s t i s a l s o s how e d e x c e l le nt clips from MacGraw’s f ilms.
That’s all from Tinseltown North, and save two on the aisle for cinema maven Sister Dana.
See more
Stories @sfbaytimes.com Twitter, and find us Facebook.
and follow us on on
BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23, 2012 3
4 BAY TIMES FEBRUA RY 23, 2012
BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23, 2012 5
6 BAY TIMES FEBRUA RY 23, 2012
BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23, 2012 7
A Whitney Memory Mona, singing her song to Burt Reynolds who played the part of Sheriff Ed Earl. That song was “I Will Always Love You.” It was good and the lyrics touched my soul.
Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011
2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-503-1386 Fax: 415-503-1389 E-mail: editor@sfbaytimes.com www.sfbaytimes.com
Years later there came a day when I heard that song sung by the biggest voice I’d ever, ever heard. Whitney on The Bodyguard soundtrack belted it out with style and panache. It was truly good.
STAFF Dr. Betty L. Sullivan
This week, that song plays once more in honor of Whitney “Nippy” Houston who has passed away.
Editor & Publisher
Ayana Baltrip Balagas
Editorial
Design Direction, Art & Production
Abby Zimberg + Melissa Walker Design
Dr. Betty L. Sullivan
Karen Williams Special Ambassador & Advertising Executive Karen@sfbaytimes.com
Just two weeks ago in the Bay Times, I said something in the Valentines Gift Guide about finding at Amoeba Records my favorite love song, written by Dolly Parton and covered by Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You.”
Liz Bell Advertising Executive Liz@sfbaytimes.com Juan Torres Advertising Executive Juan@sfbaytimes.com
Robert Fuggiti Operations & Circulation
There was no way of knowing then how many times that song would soon be playing again and again memorializing Whitney after the announcement of her sad and untimely death.
Manny Apolonio Assistant to the Publisher
Barbara Brust / Lucille Design Webmaster & Technology Director
My personal Whitney memory goes back to evenings spent like a whirling dervish on the dance f loors of gay bars around Washington, DC. You may have heard about those places, like Tracks or The Hung Jury, The Phase II or even the pavilion at DC Pride, set-up behind Francis Jr. H.S. at P Street Beach.
Kate Laws Business Manager Juan Ordonez Distribution
ADVISORY BOARD Tracy Gary Nanette Lee Miller, CPA James C. Freeman Judy Young, MPH Gary Virginia
Whitney’s voice echoed around the dance floors, the big ones and the small, and she smiled down from video screens, a golden goddess bringing forth the music and it was good.
CONTRIBUTORS
That Favorite Love Song Back before knowing of Whitney, at the Orpheum Theater in Memphis, TN, I saw a Broadway show called “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.” In the movie by the same name, I saw Dolly, as Miss
Writers
Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Melissa Myers, Linda Ayres-Frederick, Annette Lust, Kirsten Kruse, Natalia Cornett, Teddy Witherington, Kim Corsaro, Lori Major, Christine Dumke, Alexandra Bringer, David Grabstald, Kate Kendell, Pollo del Mar, Linda Kay Silva, Albert Goodwyn, Tom W. Kelly, Heidi Beeler, Lynn Ruth Miller, Jeanie Smith, K. Cole, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Kelly Fondow, RoiAnn Phillips, Paul E. Pratt, Terry Baum Dayna Verstegen, Liz Bell.
Private Dancer My one-on-one relationship with Whitney, a happy memory, happened in my car. Driving from Arlington, VA down the Toll Road toward Dulles to our office in Reston. Grooving in my car, dancing in the driver’s seat to a Whitney song called “Love Will Save the Day.” I was moving, and yes, it was good. “Love Will Save the Day” made its way into my iPod and is still there now. The Club Mix version, the synthesizer version, the karaoke version, an acappella version and more. Great song, “Love Will Save the Day.” Are We So Moved? Celebrity. Death. Why do we fall in love with celebrities? Or, why are we at least fascinated with them? Why are we pre-occupied by celebrity death? Is it the mystery surrounding both? We don’t, most of us, know what it’s like to be a celebrity. Not really. We don’t know what it’s like to die either. Not yet. The death of a superstar becomes national lore for sharing at our water fountains. Someone is gone. Gone, and all too often, in a tragic way amidst a story filled with angst. Rumors & More Was Whitney lesbian or bisexual? Anxiety over denial or staying in her closet has been cited as a contributing factor to her demise. But do we really
know, and does it matter anyway? Do religion and upbringing play a role? We do know Whitney had her Robyn. Robyn’s memorial comments are easily accessible on the Internet (autostraddle.com). And then, too, Dolly has her Judy, and Oprah has her Gayle. All rumors, or maybe not? Substance Abuse The human condition requires that we are weak and frail in the face of temptations. The human condition also calls us to live with honor and responsibility, to embrace an inner desire to contribute and participate as constructive members of our home society. Are we charged with a responsibility also to self-monitor? To pay attention to what we do? We are left with emptiness and deep sorrow for those who have turned to the crutch of substances and as a result, awkwardly or unannounced, exited the stage. Be they individuals here in our Bay Area neighborhoods or grand divas on the world stage, we are saddened by untimely exits. Much is spoken now about Whitney Houston’s achievements as a talented recording artist who broke down barriers and built bridges. She did do so, and we celebrate her life. As Rev. Jessie Jackson said on CNN, “At the end of the day, she was a winner.” So, we are left with hope that those remaining behind - and those forthcoming too - may find the poise required to stay on stage. That all of us left behind, all of us of all ages, may keep standing, stick around and find peace in continuing to make a difference. That all of us may find meaning in this life through service and contributing to help the lives of others, through our own families and friends, our LGBTQ community and through our own most private and personal tribe. Reach Dr. Betty Sullivan: publisher@sfbaytimes.com
Photographers/ Illustrators
Rink, Dennis McMillan, Steve Underhill, Phyllis Costa, Biron.
BACK PAGE CLUB Catch Restaurant Fountaingrove Lodge Jordan, Miller & Associates Pelican Art Gallery NAPA Cellars Wines Olivia Travel Thank you to our leading advertisers.
Display Advertising Rate cards are available by calling 415-503-1386 #3 or e-mail ads@sfbaytimes.com. Classified Advertising: Refer to the order form in The Classifieds section, which you may mail or fax in, or e-mail us at classifieds@sfbaytimes.com. Deadline is 3 p.m. the Thursday preceding publication. For display classified information, please call Display Advertising at 415-503-1386 #3.
PHOTO BY R INK
ADVERTISING
The untimely death of superstar entertainer Whitney Houston spawned spontaneous memorial recognitions such as the one depicted here at the 18th and Castro “Hibernia Beach” corner in the Castro.
Person of the Week: Police Chief Greg Suhr
National Advertising: Contact Bay Times / San Francisco. Also represented by Rivendell Media., Mountainside, NJ 908-232-2021. CALENDAR
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR If you would like to write a letter to the editor with comment on an article or suggestions for the Bay Times, email us at editor@sfbaytimes.com. © 2012 Bay Times Media Co, Inc. Co-owned by Betty L. Sullivan & Jennifer L. Viegas Reprints by permission only.
SO UR C E : SAN FR AN C I SC O PO L IC E DEPART MEN T
Calendar performers, clubs, individuals or groups who want to list events should mail, e-mail or fax notices so that they reach us by 5 p.m. the Thursday prior to publication. Please e-mail items to be considered for the Calendar to calendar@sfbaytimes.com. We cannot take listings by phone.
8 BAY TIMES FEBRUA RY 23, 2012
S a n Fr a nc i s c o p o l ic e c h ie f Greg Suhr earns our Person of t he Week honor for h is work on the “SFPD It Gets Better” video project, which is part of t he nat ionw ide ca mpa ig n to end bullying of LGBT youth. Mayor Ed L ee & Ch ief Suhr recently unveiled the project, with the SFPD now being the f irst and on ly pol ice depar tment i n t he cou nt r y to pro duce a video for the campaign. The video provides a message of t ra nsfor mat ion, hope a nd encouragement that life does get better. These messages let young people know that they are not alone and that help is available.
The making of this video was a concerted ef fort by numerous members of t he SF PD w it h t he a s s i s t a n c e of S a n Fr a nc i sco f i l m ma ker Shaw n Northcutt, who produced and ed ited t he v ideo a long w it h San Francisco local musician Ly nden Ba ir, who developed t he musica l score. A s Mayor Ed L ee sa id, “San Francisco is a cit y t hat pr ides itself on embracing equality for all and this video is another great example of our commit ment to reinforcing our City’s values.” Chief Suhr suggested that the video might help anyone who feels like an outsider and suffer s t he of t en t r a g ic c on s e quences of intolerance. “This is a f irst of its k ind v ideo for
the SFPD and for any law enforcement agency in the United St ates,” he sa id. “ I hope t h i s me s s a g e of enc ou r a g e ment will give hope to anyone who might be bullied because of who they are. The members of the SF PD w ill continue to work w it h a l l you ng people and reach out to the communities, as mentors and role models. Suicide is not the answer.” Mayor L ee pred icted t hat Chief Suhr would work to refor m and moder n ize t he po lice depar tment. The “SF PD It Gets Better” video project is just one very important step in t hat d irect ion. You can v iew the video at http://www.itgetsbetter.org/video/entry/8104/.
The Week in Review By Ann Rostow Week in Review February 22, 2012 Special Note: As Bay Times goes to press, a federal judge in San Francisco has struck the Defense of Marriage as unconstitutional in one of our most significant challenges to the 1996 ban on same-sex marriage. U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey White issued a 43-page opinion in favor of attorney Karen Golinski, a married employee of the Ninth Circuit who sought spousal benefits for her wife. Golinski originally asked her employers at the Ninth Circuit to provide the benefits after she married her partner during California’s 2008 window of opportunity. Acting in his capacity as an administrator, Ninth Circuit Chief Judge Alex Kozinski agreed that the benefits were required, and ordered the Office of Personnel Management in Washington to pay up. Instead, the Office refused to comply, citing the Defense of Marriage Act. Golinski sued to force the hand of the federal government, but the court ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act was binding on D.C. bureaucrats. Then, the court suggested that Golinski refile her complaint as a challenge to DOMA. With the help of Lambda Legal, Golinski made her case, and on Wednesday, won a key victory in the legal fight for marriage. The ruling will likely be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. When that happens, the Golinski will become the second DOMA challenge pending in the federal appellate courts, one rung down from the U.S. Supreme Court. In April, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit will hear oral arguments to our DOMA challenges out of Massachusetts. Two other cases are also soon to be decided by federal district courts in New York and Connecticut. -Ann Rostow Prop 8 Game Changer: Full Ninth Circuit Asked to Weigh In The plot has thickened in the Prop 8 case. On Tuesday, Prop 8 proponents asked the full U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit to review the three-judge panel’s decision to strike the ban on same-sex marriage. We will now wait to see whether a majority of the 25 active judges on the Ninth Circuit vote to take the appeal, or whether the judges decline review. If the Ninth Circuit says yes, the Prop 8 case will be heard by a panel of 11 judges, including Chief Judge Alex Kozinski and ten others picked at random. Since 16 of the 25 Ninth Circuit judges were nominated by Democrats, there’s a decent chance that the panel will lean to the left. As for Kozinski, he is a Reagan appointee who has demonstrated a gay friendly disposition in the past, a fluke of sorts that just increases the odds in our favor by leaving only eight other Republican nominees available for the banc. (What are the odds that six of those eight are selected by chance?) Like their colleagues in federal appellate courts around the country, the Ninth Circuit accepts only a tiny fraction of petitions to the full court. En banc requests, as they’re called, are to be avoided unless the decision clashes with Supreme Court or Ninth Circuit precedent, or the case involves an issue of exceptional importance. I think we can all agree that the second premise is met. And in their 50-page request to the full court, the Prop 8 proponents insist that the decision to strike Prop 8 as unconstitutional also conflicts with binding case law (which is nonsense, Bay Times analysts agree). Combine that with the fact that the issue of marriage equality is probably the most historic and interesting game in the legal arena, and I can’t imagine that the Ninth
Circuit will have the discipline to resist the case. Think about it. These are the cases that appellate judges live for. They spend most of their time unraveling arcane regulatory conf licts or arbitrating one-off distinctions in the fine print of the tax code. Do you really think they’re going to avoid an exciting tangle with the constitutional status of marriage? They won’t, but they should. Progressive judges who favor the right to marry should leave this decision alone and force the Prop 8 side to take the case to the Supreme Court as is. As it now stands, there’s a chance that the High Court would decline review of this very narrow decision, restoring marriage in California and keeping their powder dry on marriage until they confront one of our Defense of Marriage Act cases. On the other hand, if the full Ninth Circuit takes the case, the carefully crafted panel opinion we saw two weeks ago goes out the window. Instead, the court will vacate that opinion and examine the trial court ruling from scratch. The “safe” outcome is gone, and the risk returns. We could lose. Or, we could “win” with a decision so expansive that the Supreme Court reverses the ruling with an antigay opinion. Keep in mind that the Supreme Court can easily decline to review the Prop 8 ruling as currently written. The three-judge panel deliberately ducked all the major issues in the case, refusing to say whether gay couples have a fundamental right to marry, or whether sexual orientation deserves heightened scrutiny when equal protection is threatened. Plus, the 2-1 majority based its ruling on an old gay rights case from 1996 which is settled Supreme Court law. All they said, legally, is that you can’t withdraw the word “marriage” from gay couples if you already provide them with all the marital rights and responsibilities. There’s no reasonable justification for such a distinction, ergo Prop 8 ref lects nothing more than impermissible bias against a minority group. This analysis only applies to California (although it’s possible that the same conditions could be met in Washington if state voters kill the new marriage law next November). In other words, the decision was not earth shattering. But what if the full Ninth Circuit decides that marriage is a fundamental right, or that strict scrutiny applies to sexual orientation cases? On one hand, it would be historic. On the other hand, the Supreme Court would have no choice but to accept review of such a monumental decision. We would face either the final victory in the legal fight for gay rights, or more likely, a major setback that could derail much of the progress we’ve made in the last decade. I can hear some of you say, come on! Let’s take a chance! And indeed it would be tempting to root for an all-or-nothing High Court confrontation were it not for the alternative path to victory that also lies before us. We have five major federal challenges to the Defense of Marriage Act. And we are much more likely to convince the Supreme Court to strike DOMA than to strike the marriage laws of over 40 states. With DOMA gone, and with another Supreme Court precedent on our side, our chances for overall victory increase tremendously. To fall back on my favorite analogy, it’s as if we’ve been moving steadily up the field and now have third and two on the other team’s 40 yard line. Do we try a long
Professional Services pass to the end zone, or do we run the ball? Oh, and by the way, we’re in sudden death overtime, their defensive line sucks and every gay person in the country gets a million dollars if we win. Well, I could go on and on with this topic, and I didn’t even explore the unlikely possibility that the full Ninth Circuit could rule against us. Actually, depending on their reasoning, we might have a better chance at the Supreme Court if they issued some horrible antigay decision that would be overturned by Justice Kennedy and our four champions on the left. But keep in mind as well that a leisurely stroll through the full Ninth Circuit leads us to a point in the future where we can’t predict the composition of the Supreme Court. What if a Republican wins the presidency this year and one of our five supporters leaves the bench for some reason? All bets are off in that event, and the prospects for marriage rights go south in a big way. Indeed, I suspect our adversaries decided to seek en banc review in part as a stalling tactic with this scenario in mind. Speaking of timing, the decision to ask for en banc review probably adds more than a year to the case. All the judges must confer among themselves. They may possibly ask for briefs from our side. If they then decide to take the case we’ll have more briefing, oral arguments and then the months spent waiting for a decision. Add another three months to petition the Supreme Court, and tack on a few months more for the Court to decide what to do. Even if things go smoothly, we’re looking at the Supreme Court’s 20132014 session. By that time, the Court may have been presented with at least one of our DOMA cases, specifically the Massachusetts suit now awaiting oral arguments in April before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. But that case could also be sent up to the First Circuit en banc, delaying it further, and/or the High Court may wait until some of the other DOMA cases go through the appellate courts before they take review. (As I write, we are waiting for three other DOMA decisions from federal judges in California, New York and Connecticut.) In short, God knows what will happen next. That said, it’s fun to speculate, and it’s exciting to be on the sidelines of history in the making. Maryland Comes Through on Marriage I find it hard to believe that the imminent passage of marriage rights in Maryland is not the lead story this week. As you know by now, we managed to squeak through a “yes” vote on marriage in the House of Delegates, a result that inspires me to capitalize their name even though state legislative bodies are usually left in lower case. In truth, I’ve always had a problem writing “house of delegates,” because the name sounds majestic enough for caps. Last year, however, I made a special effort to avoid capitals when the marriage equality bill was pulled off the house floor for lack of support, killing our 2011 efforts to bring fairness to the Crab State. Now, even though it’s incorrect, I will give them their due. And I will even extend the courtesy to the Maryland State Senate, in anticipation of their “yes” vote later this week. (Don’t make a liar of me, guys.) Governor Martin O’Malley is expected to sign the bill, at which point we will see if the forces of evil manage to put a repeal measure on the (continued on page 17)
Read more @www.sfbaytimes.com and check us out on Twitter and Facebook. BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23, 2012 9
National News Briefs compiled by Dennis McMillan
Seattle, WA- Washington State Legislature Passes Marriage Bill- 2.13 The Washington House of Representatives joined the state Senate in passing a freedom to marry bill that, if signed by the governor, would make Washington the seventh state to end the restriction on marriage for gay and lesbian couples and, counting the District of Columbia, the f ifth to do so through legislative action. The law would take ef fect at the end of the legislative session in June, but marr iage opponents are expected to attempt to deny its implementation by forcing it onto the November 2012 ballot. “Freedom to Marr y is proud to be a lead coalition partner in Washington Un ited for M a r r iage, wh ich worked t i relessly to educate leg islator s a nd citizens about why marriage matters to gay couples and their families,” said Thalia Zepatos, director of Public Engagement at Freedom to Marry. “Today’s win also comes as the result of dedication from elected of f icials like Rep. Jamie Pedersen, whose courageous leadership paved the way for this bill’s passage in the House. Freedom to Marry is prepared to see this victory through so that loving and committed couples in Washington are free to exercise their freedom to marry.”
Washington, DC- Romney, Santorum and Gingrich Promise to Ban Porn- 2.14 The top three Republican presidential candidates pledged a war on porn, which means that they have promised more action to ban porn than to create jobs. The conservative group Morality In Media is head over heels after all three top Republican candidates promised to go to war against the distribution of porn. In a written statement, Rick Santorum said, “Federal obscenity laws should be vigorously enforced. If elected President, I will appoint an Attorney General who will do so.” Not to be outdone, M itt Romney gave a statement to the group that said, “( I )t is imperat ive that we cult ivate the promot ion of fundamental family values. This can be accomplished with increased parental involvement and enhanced super vision of our children. It includes strict enforcement of our nation’s obscenity laws, as well as the promotion of parental software controls that g uard our children from Internet pornography.” Then we have Newt Gingrich, who wasn’t satisf ied with a written statement concerning the issue.
Governor Chris Gregoire has championed the measure since announcing her support of marriage for gay and lesbian couples in early January. She is expected to sign the bill shortly.
What the candidates and the group really are saying through the usual right wing code is that they want to ban pornography. We have had the war on poverty, the war on drugs, the war on terror, and if a Republican gets elected president, we will have the war on porn.
Source: Freedom to Marry Foundation
Source: woodhullalliance.org
Sacramento, CA- Pelosi Endorses Freedom to Marry Plank- 2.15 Just two days after Freedom to Marry announced its “Democrats: Say I Do” campaign calling on the national Democratic Party to include a plank supporting gay and lesbian couples’ freedom to marry in the party’s 2012 platform, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi endorsed Freedom to Marry’s proposed plank. “Freedom to Marr y is proud to have L eader Pelosi joining our call to put the Democratic Party squarely on record in support of the freedom to marry as part of t he nat iona l plat for m,” sa id Freedom to M a r r y founder and President Evan Wolfson. “A strong major it y of Democrat s and I ndependent s suppor t t he freedom to marry, and standing up for all families is not just the right thing to do morally, it’s also right to do politically. I hope more people will quickly join Leader Pelosi by signing Freedom to Marry’s ‘Democrats: Say I Do’ petition so together we can get the party, and the country, where the majority of Americans already are.” In the two days since launching the campaign, Freedom to Marr y’s petition has garnered nearly 10,000 sig nator ies from across the countr y. The campaig n will enlist Democratic Party leaders, elected of f icials, activists and voters to make the case to the Platform Dra ft i ng Com m it tee i n suppor t of t he freedom to marry plank. Source: Freedom to Marry Foundation
Florence, AZ - Congressional Candidate Comes Out Amid Allegations- 2.20 Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu’s reputation as a rising, conservative star has since taken a beating, after he was recently forced to confirm in public that he is gay and was involved in a relationship with a Mexican immigrant. Babeu just a few years ago appeared alongside Sen. John McCain in a re-election ad in which McCain urged federal officials to just “complete the danged fence.” Babeu denies any wrongdoing, and has vowed to continue his battle for the GOP nomination in an extremely conservative rural congressional district. He is now fighting an uphill battle, especially in a state where family values, as defined by a large evangelical Christian and Mormon population, often join forces with fierce, anti-immigrant beliefs to define conservatism. Even Arizona Sen. Ron Gould says Babeu is sure to lose major support.
Trenton, N J - New Jersey L eg islat u re Passes Ma r r iage Bill, Gov Vetoes- 2.18 The New Jersey Assembly passed A-1, the freedom to marry bill that could have made New Jersey the eighth state in the nation to end the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage. The state Senate approved the legislation by a bipartisan vote of a 24 -16. Freedom to Marry contributed more than $200,000 to the ef fort to secure passage of the marriage leg islation. These funds paid for elevating the voices of New Jersey families, radio and online advertisements, lobbying and program support for their partners at Garden State Equality. The bill then went to Governor Chris Christie for his signature, and he vetoed the leg islation. Advocates and leg islative leaders will have until January 2014 to make the case to override the veto, as was done in Vermont in 2009. A Rutgers-Eagleton poll released recently shows that 54% of New Jersey voters support the freedom to marry, and the momentum ref lected in the Senate vote is clear, given that just two years ago, on January 7, 2010, the State Senate rejected a marriage bill by a 20 -14 vote with three abstentions. Source: Freedom to Marry Foundation
Babeu is now trying to appease the conservative voters, while also coming out in favor of at least certain gay rights. “I can be a supporter and get out there and help articulate as we progress as a culture and a society, that there should be individual liberties and there should be individual freedoms,” Babeu said during a press conference. “For any other person to define somebody else’s relationship and say it not OK, that is not who we are as Americans.” Source: Associated Press
Local News Briefs Let Our People Wed
Plaza Legislation Passed and Signed into Law
Despite the Ninth Circuit ruling, Prop 8 continues to hurt lesbian and gay couples and their families. On February 14 at San Francisco City Hall, loving, committed same-sex couples, accompanied by their friends and supporters, asked for marriage licenses as part of Freedom to Marry Week. The annual event has never been more important or appropriate given the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals declaring Proposition 8 unconstitutional and Washington State becoming the next state to have marriage equality.
The Board passed Super visor Scott Wiener’s leg islation to create basic rules in Harvey Milk Plaza and Jane Warner Plaza, both at Castro and Market. These critical public spaces in the neighborhood need to be accessible to everyone, with no one person or group dominating them at the expense of others. However, due to quirks in the law, the plazas were in a legal limbo, and it was unclear what laws could be enforced.
“The Ninth Circuit’s ruling that Prop 8 is unconstitutional was an early Valentine to loving couples and fair-minded citizens ever y where,” said Stuart Gaf fney, Marriage Equality USA media director. “While the court’s ruling gives us renewed hope for the restoration of marriage equality in California soon, lesbian and gay people still can’t wed pending any further appeals.” This is the 12th year in a row that same-sex couples have appeared at clerk’s off ices across the country to request marriage licenses and to render visible the harm that excluding them from marriage causes them and their families. The San Francisco event was just one of many similar actions that took place across the country on Valentine’s Day, from Virginia to Texas to California, created by a coalition of diverse organizations. Source: Marriage Equality USA
10 BAY TIMES FEBRUARY 23, 2012
To address this situation and to ensure good management of the plazas, Wiener introduced legislation to apply certain aspects of the Parks Code to the plazas, including banning camping, sleeping and smoking, and requiring permits to sell merchandise. The legislation also reaff irms that the plazas are open to the public 24 hours a day, that they are key public gathering spaces and that First Amendment activities are exempt and to be respected. The Mayor signed the legislation last week. It will take effect next month. Wiener thanked the broad coalition of Castro-area neighborhood organizations that supported and advocated for this important legislation. Source: Supervisor Wiener newsletter
Use the News Foundation Education Program with the Bay Times:
The Castro Theatre
Architect Timothy L. Pflueger’s drawing of the theater’s exterior facing Castro Street. – Photo courtesy of Steve Levin Collection for Use The News Foundation education program
Cast ro T heat re is fa mous for World P rem ieres such as for Focus Features’ MILK, starring Sean Penn – Photo courtesy of Focus Features
Castro Theatre interior from Balcony as seen in 1922. – Photo courtesy of Steve Levin Collection for Use The News Foundation education program.
Special screening nights continue to build in popularity, such as the Alice in Wonderland in 3D event on March 12, 2010. – Photo by Daniel Nicoletta
The Castro’s Mezzanine Lobby, in Art Deco décor style with Moorish inf luences, is the site of private receptions, Opening Night parties and other private events. – Photo courtesy of The Castro Theatre
The World Premiere of No Secret Anymore attracted a sold out crowd on February 13, 2003. – Photo courtesy of WomanVision
BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23, 2012 11
’round About in Photos
Big crowd of women laughing at Valentines Soiree held Feb 10th at The Bellevue Club at Lake Merritt, Oakland. Photo by Phyllis Costa
Laughing was unavoidable for longtime fans and newcomers at Karen Williams’ Valentines Soiree with “Betty’s List.” Photo by Phyllis Costa
Comedy diva Karen Williams led “Let’s Talk About Sex . . . and Love Too!” in the Terrace Room at Valentines Soiree. Photo by Phyllis Costa
Barbara “Boo” Price welcomes singer/songwriter Cris Williamson to the Montclair Women’s Cultural Arts Club, Feb 12th. Photo by Phyllis Costa
John Weber, decked out for Mardi Gras, is surrounded by dancers Jason Medina and Bunny at the Krewe de Kinque Bal Masque on Feb 18th.
Singer Della Reese was honored at The Rrazz Room where she made a rare appearance to the delight of fans. Photo by Steven Underhill
The Bear Flag flying over at Harvey Milk Castro in the Castro signaling a special weekend of Bear activities. Photo by Rink
Deana Dawn and Mark Paladini letting good times roll at Krewe de Kinque Bal Masque, Feb. 18th. Photo by Rink
12 BAY TIMES FEBRUARY 23, 2012
Jerry, Jimmie, Lions Club President Troy Brunet, Eddie and Heart Throb Contest winner John at the Castro Lions Club Benefit Contest held at Cinch Bar on Feb 12th. Photo by Rink
Photo by Rink
Arts&Entertainment Oscar Predictions continued Film
Gary M. Kramer Who Will Win: Viola Davis, an actress who is consistently great in parts large and small, and gave a worthy performance in a popular film. Best Supporting Actor Christopher Plummer, Beginners and 4 other nominees. (Kenneth Branagh, My Week with Marilyn, Jonah Hill, Moneyball, Nick Nolte, Warrior, Max von Sydow, Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close). Who Should/Will Win: Plummer. The veteran actor is great in Beginners, and will be deservedly honored for lifetime achievement as well. Best Supporting Actress Berenice Bejo, The Artist, Jessica Chastain, The Help. Melissa McCarthy, Bridesmaids, Janet McTeer, Albert Nobbs, Octavia Spencer, The Help Who Should/Will Win: Spencer. This great character actress stole the show as the comic relief in The Help. Best Director Michel Hazanavicius, The Artist, Martin Scorsese, Hugo, Alexander Payne, The Descendants, Woody Allen, Midnight in Paris, Terrence Malick, The Tree of Life. Who Should Win: Martin Scorsese, Hugo. After finally being honored with his first Oscar for The Departed, the Academy should recognize him again. W ho Wi l l Wi n: Hazanav icius for The Artist, as the f ilm is likely to “sweep.”
Best Animated Feature Film A Cat in Paris, Chico and Rita, Kung Fu Panda 2, Puss in Boots, Rango. What Will Win: Since The Adventures of Tintin was snubbed, Rango will win. Best Foreign Language Film Bullhead (Belgium), Footnote (Israel), Monsieur Lazhar (Canada), In Darkness (Poland), A Separation (Iran). What Will Win: A Separation, and deservedly so. It was one of the best films of the year. Best Original Screenplay The Artist, Bridesmaids, Margin Call, Midnight in Paris, A Separation. What Will Win: Look for Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris to squeak past The Artist here. Best Adapted Screenplay The Descendants, Hugo, The Ides of March, Hugo, Moneyball, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. What Will Win: Expect The Descendants to take home the statue, but it really should go to Moneyball. Best Documentary Feature Hell and Back Again, If a Tree Falls, Paradise Lost 3, Pina, Undefeated. What Will Win: Paradise Lost 3 will win, unless Pina pulls an upset. Best Art Direction The Artist, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, Hugo, Midnight in Paris, War Horse. What Will Win: Maybe because of the 3D, Hugo will be awarded here— and justifiably so. Best Cinematography The Artist, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hugo, The Tree of Life, War Horse.
What Will Win: The Tree of Life because the cinematography was astonishing. Best Costume Design Anonymous, The Artist, Hugo, Jane Eyre, W.E. What Will Win: Another win for The Artist in this category. Best Editing The Artist, The Descendants, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hugo, Moneyball. What Will Win: Yet another win for The Artist in this category. Best Makeup Albert Nobbs, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2, The Iron Lady. What Will Win: The Iron Lady for makeup put on with a trowel. Best Score The Adventures of Tintin, The Artist, Hugo, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, War Horse.
What Will Win: No contest, The Muppets.
Mr. Morris Lessmore, La Luna, A Morning Stroll, Wild Life.
Best Sound Editing Drive, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hugo, Transformers Dark of the Moon, War Horse.
What Will Win: The smart money is on La Luna, because it’s Pixar, but Flying Books is much more deserving.
What Will Win: Since The Artist wasn’t nominated in this category, Hugo will win. Best Sound Mixing The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hugo, Moneyball, Transformers Dark of the Moon, War Horse. What Will Win: Again, since The Artist wasn’t nominated in this category, Hugo will win. Best Visual Effects Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2, Hugo, Real Steel, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Transformers Dark of the Moon.
What Will Win: And the Oscar goes to… The Artist.
What Will Win: Although The Artist wasn’t nominated in this category, Hugo won’t win. Expect Rise of the Planet of the Apes to walk off with the award.
Best Song “Man or Muppet” (The Muppets), Real in Rio (Rio).
Best Animated Short Dimanche/ Sunday, The Fantastic Flying Books of
Best Live Action Short Pentecost, Raju, The Shore, Time Freak, Tuba Atlantic. What Will Win: Raju is on track to win this award. Best Documentary Short The Barber of Birmingham, God is the Bigger Elvis, Incident in New Baghdad, Saving Face, The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom. What Will Win: While Incident in New Baghdad has picked up awards at f ilm fests, The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom is predicted to take this category. © 2012 Gary M. Kramer
Frameline Funding Recipients Announced Frameline, the nation's only nonprof it org a n i zat ion solely ded icated to the funding, exhibition, distribution and promotion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender med ia a r t s, ha s a n nou nced t he recipients of its annua l Frame l i ne C omplet ion Fu nd . T he announcement provides a glimpse of L GBT f i l ms t hat we may a l l soon enjoy in the coming months. E xec ut ive D i r ec t or K .C . P r ic e said, “It is such an honor to sup-
por t t hese seven excel lent f i l m project s, each of wh ich ref lect s the talent, diversit y and mar velous current state of LGBT f ilm.” Since 1990, Frameline has awarded complet ion f u nd i ng to more than 100 f ilm and video projects by and about the LGBT commun it y. Pa st recipient s of t he Frameline Completion Fund include Dee Rees' Pariah, Rashaad Ernesto Green's Gun Hill Road, Cynthia Wade’s Osca r-w i n n i ng F ree h el d,
a nd Dav id Weissma n’s We We re Here: Voices from the AIDS Years. This year, the Frameline Complet ion Fu nd r ec eived 8 4 subm i s sions, the most submissions ever, a nd awarded a tot a l of $25,0 0 0 in funding to seven independent f ilm and video works that are in the f inal stages of production. An independent jury selected the following seven recipients of this year’s grants:
P H OTO SO UR C E : F R AME LI NE
“ G e o r g e T a k e i : Te r r e s t r i a l H e l m s m a n ,” d i r e c t ed by Jenn ifer M. K root “ Ter rest r ia l Hel m sma n” ex a mines the life of actor George Takei: a gay man, a Japanese American, and a civil rights activist who rose to fame by driving a spaceship. “Kate Bornstein is a Queer & Pleasant Danger,” directed by Sam Feder T h is docu ment a r y ex plores t he r ich l ife and work of celebrated author, gender theorist and transsex ua l act iv i st K ate B or n stei n. It ex plores K ate’s a r t ist ic pract ice, her inf luences and the way
she has created language, space, and permission for generations of people to live their lives. “Gayby,” directed by Jonathan Lisecki Best friends Matt (gay and heartbroken) a nd Jen n (st r a ight a nd single by choice) fulf ill their old promise to have a child together – the old fashioned way. “Gayby” i s a n i r r e ver ent c ome d y ab out f r iend sh ip, sex , lonel i nes s , a nd the families we choose. “Big Joy P rojec t ,” d i rec ted b y E r ic S l a de a n d S t e phe n Silha T h is docu ment a r y ex plores t he exceptional life of James Broughton , pre - B eat poet , f i l m m a ker, and af fect ionately k now n as t he “Father of West Coast experimental f ilm.” " T h e H a p p y S a d ,” d i rected by Rodney Evans This feature-length narrative follows t wo couples, one black and one white, whose lives collide as they nav igate open relationships and sexual identity. “The Happy
Sad” explores the questions that a lter n at ive t went y- a nd t h i r t yyear olds face in a culture where there appears to be end less possibilities for sex, but also a resistance to any def initive model for a proper relationship. “ T h e Ne w B l a c k ,” d i r e c t e d b y Yo r u b a R i c h e n T h is document ar y uncovers t he complicated and often combative histories of the African-American a n d L G B T c i v i l r i g ht s m o v e ments. Specif ica l ly, the f i lm examines homophobia in the black communit y’s institutional pillar: the black church. “ We Were T here,” d i rec ted by Emmanuelle A ntolin Through interviews and archival mater ia l, “ We Were T here” reveals the personal, political, and cultural impact of the lesbian response to the early A I DS cr isis. “We Were There” is the f irst document a r y to ex plore t he untold stor y of t he lesbia n response to A IDS.
BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23,
2012 13
See more
Stories @sfbaytimes.com
and follow us on on
Twitter, and Facebook. Facebook.
MUSIC
Cris Williamson Performs Love Songs on Valentine’s Day Concert Review
San Francisco’s Best Cafe Breakfast Lunch Dinner Cocktails
Full Service Bar Pastries Desserts
2298 Market Street • San Francisco, CA (415) 621-8579 • www.cafeflore.com
I f inally made it to my f irst Cris Williamson concert. It’s hard to believe, I know, since she is such a n icon of women’s music. Cr is celebrated her 65 th birthday February 15, so we def initely have a generation gap since I’m 42 and could be her daughter. But being t here at t he Montcla ir Women’s Cultural Arts Club among at least 120 women, many of whom must have been present with the women’s movement a nd music si nce day one, was a rea l ly wonder ful experience. Cr i s sa ng to a f u l l house, even t hough she h ad ju st per for med at Berkeley’s Freight & Sa lvage in December, and it was her idea to do a Va lent ine’s Day concer t w it h Ba rba ra “ Boo” P r ice, who o w n s t he C lu b . B o t h w o me n have k now n each for more t han 40 years. Barbara produced Cris’ f irst concer t in 1974. This show was pa r t of t he L ove Song tour that went from Oakland to Santa Cruz and San Diego. The Montclair Club is a cozy, intimate venue and a for mer Women’s Club, with a very homey feeling, perfect for small, acoustic concerts. Many women quiet ly sang along to Cris’ older songs, happily reminiscing about t he past, and creat ing an at mosphere f i l led w it h warmth and love. “I was just happy that everyone could get together and hear Cr is sing again and again,” said Tia. “When she sang ton ight, her voice was i n excellent condition. Of course, it has so much heart in it,” said Joan Antonucci, who was in the studio when
Inspiring LGBT Prof iles
Your SupreMe Source For MuSic & MovieS!
5
off
$
Your purchaSe oF $25 or More at AMoebA MuSic!
Buy - sell - trade • new & used • rare & collectiBle dVDs • Blu-rays • Games • cDs • poSters lPs • 45s • 78s • turntaBles & more! *Coupon is valid for $5 off your purchase of $25 or more. Cannot be combined with any other discount offers or coupons. One coupon per person, per transaction, per day. Not valid on Amoeba.com. Expires 4/30/12.
san FrANcisco
1855 Haight st • (415) 831-1200
AMOEBA.COM
berkeleY
2455 telegrapH ave • (510) 549-1125
Free Shipping on MuSic & MovieS- no MinimuM!
14 BAY T IMES FEBRUARY 23,
2012
Kathleen Archambeau Banned in Iran, Circumstance explores the world Iranian President M a h moud A h mad i nejad c la i m s does not ex ist. L esbian act iv it y, just l i ke homosexua l act iv it y, is punishable by death on the fourth conv icted of fense in Iran. Being queer is i l lega l i n ma ny M idd le E a s t er n c ou nt r ie s , e xc e pt Jor d a n , I r a q , Tu r k e y a n d I s r a e l . So, to create a f ilm that explores t he bud d i n g r om a nc e b et we en two g irls who are best friends in moder n I r a n w a s so d a ngerou s t h at 36 yea r- old bi sex ua l f i l mmaker Maryam Keshavarz had to f i lm in L ebanon where enforcement is lax. Keshava r z t r aver ses t he world s between A merica and Iran to illuminate the tensions bet ween a f u nda ment a l ist Mus l i m gover nment in today’s Iran and liberal,
P HOTO BY P HY L L IS C O STA
Kirsten Kruse
Cris Williamson on stage.at the Montclair’s Women’s Cultural Arts Club
Cris recorded her f irst album T he Changer and the Changed. Antonucci added, “She was younger, but her voice is rich and full.” C r i s p er for me d a n ent i r e e ve n i n g of love s on g s , s ome w r itten by her sel f, some t rad it iona l and some cover songs. The show started out slow and mellow with “ Tu mbleweed,” “ Teach Me To n i ght ,” “ T he Mo on Wa s Blue” a nd “ T he Water I s W ide.” She continued with a very sweet song, “ Ton ight You’l l Belong to Me,” dating from 1926. She accompanied herself on the ukulele, which pr ompt e d a s p ont a ne ou s s i n ga long. T hroughout t he even ing, Cris maintained a playful mood, joking about getting older, easily rely ing on long-t ime fam i l iar it y a nd fr iend sh ip w it h t he women in the aud ience. She was available for questions and conversations during the intermission, and signed copies of her CD’s. T he second ha l f of t he concer t st a r ted w it h “ T he Rea l D ea l ,” a s on g s he w r ot e for her g i r l friend. It’s the kind of song that
educated, upper middle class Iranians, disappointed in their 1978 79 revolut ion aga i nst t he Sha h. For t he you ng, l i ke t he cousi n s Keshavarz spent summers with in I ran, t he on ly escape is a world of forbidden underground parties, black market DV Ds and sk impy Wester n clot hes wor n under t he vei l . It i s i n t h at u nder g r ou nd world that the two main characters, Atefah and Shireen, explore, g oi n g f r om s c ho ol g i rl s pa s s i n g or iga m i birds to one a not her in secret to young women nav igating their love for one another in explicit sexual scenes. Trouble comes home to roost in the f ilm when the two young girls’ budd i ng roma nce i s d i scovered by A t ef a h’s r eh a bi l it at e d d r u g a dd ic t- mu s ic i a n br ot her, Meh ran, now a devoted Musl im. He t u r ns h i s si ster a nd her lesbia n lover over to t he S ec r et Pol ice for their participation in a plot to dub Milk into Farsi and d ist r ib ute the banned f ilm. This is where t he f i lm t ur ns to hy perbole and r u n s t he r i s k of over st atement . Nonet heless, Keshavarz is brave enough to tack le the extremes of Iranian societ y w ith extremes of her ow n i n her debut na r r at ive feature f ilm. She appl ied to f i l m school a nd won a t h r e e -ye a r st i nt , f i n i s h ing her MFA in 2006. Sponsored by t he Su nda nce F i l m Fest iva l, Keshava r z wowed t he i ndependent f ilm world with her groundbreaking f ilm.
speaks not only of sweet love and r om a nc e, but a l s o of st r en g t h , st ic k i ng toget her, a nd com m itm e nt – t h e k i n d o f s o n g t h a t makes you happy to have a good, lon g- t er m r e l at ion s h ip. I , who on ly k new Cr is’ f irst a lbum before this concert, loved it because it rocked a l itt le more t han fol k music, and it’s on my iPod now. “Dream Child,” another song the women soft ly sang and hummed along to, was on that f irst album. “It’s got some mag ic to it, some k i nd of juju… Women st i l l d is cover it,” said Cris, but then she jokingly refused to perform “Waterfall” – though loudly requested - reminding everyone that there’s a reason she makes CD’s. She continued with a John Lennon cover, reminiscing about John and Yoko. She t hen closed w it h a nother song, “You Belong to Me,” w r it ten by Ch i lton P r ice i n t he 1950’s. Cr is not on ly per for ms, but she also teaches song writing seminars. Her next song writing weekend will be in Tokeland, WA, at the end of March.
Keshavarz has been banned from retur ning to Iran by Iranian aut hor it ie s s i nc e t he f i l m w a s r e le a s e d . S he h a d t o k e e p t he project secret from family still in Iran or they might have suf fered repercussions from t he aut hor it a r i a n reg i me. Even f i l m i ng i n more liberal Lebanon, she had to of fer a fake scr ipt to the censorship board. Any reference to sexualit y or relig ion had to be taken out. Keshavarz says, “The whole s y stem t r aps people…You g row up in A mer ica and they tel l you not to lie…when I went to school in Iran during the war…you were taught to lie as a way to protect your family.” Circumstance is expected to do well in the underground f ilm industry of Iran. In fact, Brokeback Mountain , despite being i l lega l, was a huge h it i n I ra n. W h i le Keshavarz’s f irst feature f ilm focuses on the lives of two lesbian teenagers, it is a universal f ilm about families, repression, love and freedom. T ho s e t he me s r e s o n a t e a c r o s s borders.
Being, Doing, and Depression obsessed he becomes with what’s happening in his mind. This sets up a v icious circle of increasing w it hd rawa l a nd sel f-preoccupation.
Examined Life Tom Moon, MFT
Henr y has been feeling down for days, a nd is a fra id t hat he may be sliding into another severe depression. His last bout, his third, was paralyzing and debilitat ing, and cost him his boyfriend. He’s f ight ing his mood by alternately t r y i ng to suppress it a nd st r uggl ing to t h in k h is way out of it, most ly t hrough r u m i nat ion a nd sel f-bl a me. Suppress ion doesn’t work : he i ne v it a bl y r et u r n s t o himself and becomes aware, with i ncrea si ng a la r m, of how bad ly he’s feeling. And when he tries to think his way out of it, he dredges up pa st pa i n a nd wor r ies about t he f ut u re, wh ich just d ig s h i m deeper into the hole. In his imaginat ion, he t r ies out solut ion a fter solut ion, and feels more and more like a failure because none of his thoughts pull him out of the g at her i n g d a rk ne s s . Mor e over, t he more he t r ies to f ig u re out what’s wrong and f ix it, the more
W h i le Hen r y ’s i nter na l f la i l i ng is dragg ing h im deeper into t he quicksand of depression, his fears of relapse are unfor tunately not unfounded. Depression is an il lness characterized by a tendency to relapse: Each episode increases the likelihood of another episode by 16%. I n 20 07, a tea m of resea rcher s went public with a new treatment for depression that appears to reduce relapses sig n i f ica nt ly. According to a related theory, Henry is making the common mistake of tr y ing to ward of f depression by using what they call the “doing mode.” T he doing mode is t r iggered whenever the mind sees that t h i ng s a re not t he way it wa nt s them to be. W henever that hap pens, negat ive feel ing s are t r iggered, and the mind tries to f ind ways out of the pain by reducing the gap between the current and t he desired state. This problemsolving mode works ver y well for t h i ng s l i ke f ig u r i ng out how to drive across town, but is counterproductive when applied to internal states. When the doing mode is used on even mild unhappiness by people who h ave prev iou s ly su f fered depres s ion, it act ua l ly seems to set in motion a cascade of increasing unhappiness. This is an important f inding, because it’s common to believe that practical,
problem solv ing attitudes, which a r e e f fe c t i v e for d e a l i n g w it h problems i n t he exter na l world, a l s o ought to work for m a n a ging our internal lives as well. But t h i s a s s u mpt ion a pp e a r s t o b e incorrect. What seems to help prevent a temporar y blue mood from spiraling i nto a bl ac k hole of depres s ion is what the researchers call “ bei ng mode,” wh ich i s cha r acteri zed by at tent ion to t he present rat her t han t he future. In being mode, t he focus is on accept ing a nd a l low i ng i nter n a l st ates to be as t hey are instead of t r y ing to change them. The idea is that when we get out of t he way and s t o p f i g ht i n g w it h ou r mo o d s , they ebb and f low on their own, and are less likely to congeal into deep depression. There is a well-researched stressreduct ion technique t hat faci l it ates t he t ransit ion from do i ng to bei ng mode fa i rly ea si ly. It’s known as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction ( MBSR). In the past four years, I’ve used it w ith many patients who have dealt with mu lt iple episodes of depression. A l l of my pat ient s who’ve practiced it have experienced positive results, including Henry, the man I described above, who appears to be n ipping a potent ia l ly ser ious relapse in the bud. Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. His website is tommoon.net.
Year of the Dragon: Marching for Grace
Sweet Inspiration Bakery Cafe Brass Tacks Heidi Beeler It wasn’t our drum major Mike Wong’s f irst year leading the Sa n Fr a nc i sco L esbi a n/Gay Fr e e dom B a nd t h r ou gh t he red- crack le-gold of t he Ch inese New Year’s Parade, but last Saturday’s parade will be one that sticks out. A s we l i ned up, M i ke a nnou nc e d he w a s de d ic at i n g his march to his g randmother, Grace Lahn Heung Wong, who passed last August. Born in Chinatown in 1917, Grace l i v e d mo s t of her 9 4 ye a r s there. Turns out M ike’s fami ly members are among Chinatown’s early natives. In Ross A l ley, a brass plaque honors t he Wongs among ot her pio neering families of the district. M ike’s grandmother not only g rew up t here, she st ar ted a sew ing factor y. For decades, she worked a mong her 20 sea mst resses, ret ir i ng i n her late 80s. When she passed last year, Mayor Ed L ee honored her life with a mayoral certif icate. Over its 10 0 years in Chinatown, Grace’s extended family
Drum Major Mike Wong.
has been involved in the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, producers of the Chinese New Year’s Parade. One of Mike’s earl iest memor ies is of going to the parade with his parents. A s a t i ny b oy, he w a s awe struck by the parade running t hrough h is g ra ndpa rent s’ ba c k y a r d - t he su l f u r s mel l of t he f irecrackers, t he f lap jawed lions and golden snaking dragons. The Band began its own histor y w it h t h i s pa r ade about that same time. Ever since the parade started in the 1860s, its organizers opened it to the ent ire communit y to build harmony. So when the Gay Castro kicked off a band, they opened their parade to the new group. It was t he 3 rd one t he Ba nd ever ma rched i n – a f ter t he Gay Freedom Day and Columbus Day parades in June and October of 1978. Mike told me he was ner vous the f irst year he led the Band. Many of his fami ly members were active, or even ministers, i n c hu r c he s a nd h a d i s s ue s with homosexuality. Mike had marched in the Band as a horn
pl ayer, but a s d r u m m ajor, t here wou ld be no blend i ng in. His name would be broadcast to the crowds –broadcast by his dad’s cousin, a minister and long-t ime announcer at t he parade’s f ina l Kear ny S t r e et r e v ie w i n g s t a nd . A s M i k e p a s s e d t he b l e a c he r s w it h t he Band in tow, he set his teeth and saluted the minister as drum major. His cousin stood to his feet and saluted Mike back.
2239 Market Street www.sweetinspirationbakery.com coltercakes@gmail.com 415.621.8664
Since the time of that f irst parade, Mike noticed his family’s attitudes have changed. More have seen him lead the band at Ch i nese New Yea r’s, a nd others saw him lead the Band at AT&T Park for the Giants’ LGBT Night. Mike said after years of not d iscussing being gay, most family members support him. And what did matriarch Grace t h in k? M i ke sa id she was always gracious to his partner, Kevin. A nd when his parents took her to the Band’s DanceA lon g Nut c r a c ker ®, her biggest t hr i l l was hav ing Tr au ma F l i nt stone croon to her in the front row. BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23,
2012 15
Take Your Metaphysical Temperature ARIES (March 21 – April 19) You thrive on action, Aries, but it's wise to practice stillness and tap into psychic instincts now. Relationships and career will benefit if you focus on the “big picture.” TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) Feeling like a baby bull in a big rodeo lately? Current group dynamics are rendering you a bit distressed. Have confidence in yourself, Taurus. Your tribe needs you.
Astrology Gypsy Love
Think about a time when recovering from a wound made you even stronger in the long run. Over the years, we've each nursed countless injuries incurred by our bodies, minds, and spirits. Sharing this common thread, humans cultivate compassion and strength with every healing experience. Current astro-vibes remind us to take our metaphysical temperature and mend long-standing karmic wounds that may be festering subconsciously. Where is your soul craving TLC?
GEMINI (May 21 – June 20) Angels are currently behind-the-scenes, helping you re-align your sense of purpose. Why do you work so hard, Gemini? To feed your passions, or someone else's? Think about it. CANCER ( June 21 – July 22) As the zodiac's consummate “homebody,” you may be caught off-guard by new excitement bubbling in your social life. Get out there, Cancer. Connections you're making could rock your world. LEO ( July 23 – August 22) You've outgrown a job or task that's no longer serving its soulful purpose. Meanwhile, your public image is brighter than ever, Leo. Good things happen when you go for it.
VIRGO (August 23 – September 22 Current partnerships are making your pretty little head spin. Abandon your quest for control. Rather, use this period of cosmic fertility to expand your own horizons. Exotic adventures await you. LIBRA (September 23 – October 22 Experiences at work stir your subconscious, introducing opportunities for growth. Just remember, growth involves surrender. Let go, Libra. Change can be beautiful...And isn't “beautiful” your middle name? SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) Everybody knows that sexy-time is one of your specialties, Scorpio. But “Big O” isn't the only gatekeeper at lover's lane. Explore alternative paths to intimacy. Get creative! SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) Rewards are flowing career-wise, while at home you may be spinning. Have faith. Current astro-waves are helping you harmonize these two worlds. Feeling stuck? Start by articulating your innermost desires.
CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) Your usual communication tactics may feel fuzzy and inadequate these days, Capricorn. The Universe wants you to explore more creative ways of conveying your ideas. Unleash your inner muse. AQUARIUS ( January 20 – February 18) Your entire value system recently checked into rehab. What made life worth living before has changed now. New inspiration is knocking at your soul's door, Aquarius. Unlock and answer.
PISCES (February 19 – March 20) Waves of boundless imagination, expansive ideas, and new social structures wash over you now, Pisces. Thankfully, you're a natural swimmer! Release unnecessary fears, and the right path will reveal itself. www.Astrolog yByGypsyLove.com
Gypsy Love’s astrology readings have helped 1000’s of people attract what they authentically desire.
Be the Change
Speak Up! Speak Out! Laugh Often! Karen Williams "Be the change we want to see in t he world..." is a ph ra se t hat is par t icularly popular t hese days. Yet , h ave you t r ie d t o c h a n g e e ven one t h i n g a b out you r s e l f lately and d iscovered how d if f icult it is? Ta ke ciga ret te smok i ng, for example. I used to smoke cigarettes so I know the pleasure of the af-
ter-mea l puf f. In fact, in my effort to quit smok ing, it was that c i g a r et te a f ter eat i n g t h at w a s the most challeng ing one for me to give up. A lthough that last cig was almost thirty years ago, I can recall how defeated I felt even before I began to take on the notion of quitting. Smoking was going on ever y where...in clubs, bars, restaurants, in and outside of of f ice buildings. At the time, it seemed l i k e E V E RYON E w a s h a p pi l y pu f f i n g aw ay. Me a nw h i le, t he war nings on t he side of t he ciga ret te pa c k s b ec a me more a nd more blatant about the serious effects of continuing to partake in this earthly pleasure. It didn't help that society treated smokers l i ke lepers. L iv ing in a cold climate, I would see smokers hudd led out side of of f ice bui ldings. People wou ld wa l k by and sneer at them, turn up their noses, or indu lge in fa ke coughing.
S ome fol k s wou ld c r ue l ly ye l l , "Get a patch!" Clearly, they were missing the point completely. For on ly t r ue creat ures of t he habit know the divine pleasure of defying t he laws of good hea lt h and i ndu lg i ng i n one of l i fe's g u i lt y indulgences. Call it an oral f ixation, call it hand to mouth resuscitation...whatever you call it, all but the die-hard cigarette smokers k now t hat one day t hey w i l l need to relinquish their habit. S o , a r m e d w it h t h e d e s i r e t o change, one embarks on the journey, loaded w it h posit ive a f f i rmat ions a nd cr y st a l l i ne v isua lizat ions. Not! Few people move to ma ke changes out of rea l izat ion; it is often loss or pain that sha kes us up enough to t a ke on the uncommon challenge. W hen ou r breat h i ng becomes labored or we're ex hausted a fter cl i mb ing a f light of stairs, the thought may occu r t hat perhaps a need
to cut down on smok ing may be warranted. When conf irmed by a doctor after yet another bout with a cold or bronchitis, the thought may i nspire a ca l l to act ion. A nd it is t he act ion t hat br i ng s about the needed change. My c h i ld r en wer e my tou r- de force a nd u lt i m ate c h a l leng er s to my c ig a ret te smok i ng. T hey would chant around me, "Face it, Mom! You're addicted! You're addicted!" My youngest son got right to the point, "Mom, you're gonna d ie! " S o t here I wa s, snea k i ng cigs in the bathroom, with a towel under the door, burning incense and smoking out of the bathroom window. Was that fair? No! But for t hei r sa kes I conv i nced myself. I gave up my habit, one I'd wanted to abandon for some time. T he c h a l len g e br ought out my humanity because I realized how d i f f ic u lt it cou ld b e to ch a ng e even one habit. W h i le cigarette
smoking seemed like an external problem, it really ref lected how I felt about me. On a deeper level, I had to f ind other ways to manage my emot iona l st ate a nd rema i n present for others, in addition to caring about my physical health. I found greater empathy for myself and thereby for other people because while we make resolutions to change, it takes a great deal of ef fort to carry through. We need suppor t, encouragement, prayer and dedicated action to keep going. The change I want to see in the wor ld t o d ay i s mor e k i nd ne s s . Since cha nge beg ins w it h me, I vow to be just a little kinder, one day at a time, to you, to me, and t o t he e ver- c h a n g i n g env i r on ment around me. Join me, won't you? Enjoy being kinder today! Reach Bay Times special ambassaddor Karen Williams: karen@sfbaytimes.com
As Heard on the Street . . .
A L L P H OTO S B Y R INK
What is your favorite movie, and why?
Jenni Olsen
Aimee Forster
“Tongues Untied, because filmmaker Marlon Riggs inspired me with his groundbreaking personal documentary.”
“Forrest Gump because of the way it traces a person's life.”
16 BAY T IMES FEBRUARY 23,
2012
Cookie Dough
“Carrie, because the lead character was bullied, and her reaction came out of fear instilled by her mother.”
Juanita Fajita
“I love the film Cars because its message about finding true friends makes me tear up.”
Photo of The Week
On Valentine’s Day, February 14th, singer Tony Bennett and the 50th Anniversary of his famous song “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” were honored at San Francisco City Hall. Members of the San
Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, the Girls and Boys Choruses and other entertainers performed. Mayor Ed Lee presented Bennett the Key to the City declaring “Tony Bennett Day.” Photos by Steven Underhill
(ROSTOW continued from page 9) November ballot. I gather it’s difficult, but far from impossible, to qualify an initiative in Maryland. So we prepare for the worst.
(PRESIDENT OBAMA continued from page 1) There were some potentially tense really important that you knew you moments, which occurred near the were part of something bigger than beginning of Obama’s talk. He was yourself.” interrupted a few times by critics who shouted about “the killing of innocent Assistance in spreading the word civilians in Afghanistan and Paki- prior to the event was provided by stan” and deepwater drilling. Each the Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club, of the shouters was subsequently es- BAYMEC, “Betty’s List” and the San corted out. Obama didn’t miss a beat Francisco LGBT Community Center. in saying, “This is what San Francisco is always about. There’s always The upcoming plans of Obama for something going on in San Francisco. America in the Bay Area include a Folks are not shy about sharing their Speaker Series, which will feature appearances by top White House ofideas in San Francisco. It’s fun.” ficials. The series will occur between Levinson said she was particularly now and the election. In March, a pleased that the LGBT community visit by Michelle Obama is planned, members and allies were able to sit to- although the date has not yet been gether in one area, making it possible announced. to meet and hold discussions. Having the group made it possible to focus Those wishing to connect and particion matters affecting our particular pate can do so by writing to Levinson, needs. It also permitted the forging K at hy @ le vc o.c om , or by c omof new connections, since some in menting on the event’s Facebook attendance did not previously know p a g e , h t t p s : //w w w. f a c e b o o k . each other. Levinson added, “It was com/events/276769012388414.
By the way, did you know that none other than Bill Clinton was personally lobbying Maryland delegates as the vote approached last week? What a turnaround. And what a nice behindthe-scenes gesture from our former POTUS. Over in Washington, where we won marriage rights earlier this month, hostile petitioners are scurr ying around to meet a mid-June deadline for 120,000 signatures. It sure looks as if we’ll be proactively fighting for marriage rights in three states this fall; Washington, Maryland and in Maine (where our side has optimistically put an equality measure on the ballot). We’ll also be fighting anti-marriage campaigns this May in North Carolina, and next November in Minnesota. I’m still not sure what’s going on with the effort to take back marriage rights in New Hampshire. They have the votes to do so in the newly Republican legislature, but even as they wave the gun around, they seem oddly reluctant to pull the trigger. And finally, since this is a state recap, don’t forget that we have until January, 2014, to override New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s marriage veto. It sounds like a long time to me. Meanwhile, Lambda Legal’s second New Jersey marriage equality lawsuit got a shot in the arm this week, as Judge Linda Feinberg reversed herself and reinstated Lambda’s federal equal protection claim in Mercer County Superior Court. Our legal eagles are arguing that Jersey’s civil unions have not created the equality mandated by the state supreme court’s earlier marriage ruling. Basically, they’re having to relitigate the entire case from start to finish, thanks to the wishy-washy
See more
2006 decision. Now’s not the time for details, unless you beg me. I hear nothing. Some Other Stuff I know I should dig into the story of the Arizona sheriff and GOP congressional candidate, who came out of the closet under accusations that he threatened his Latino boyfriend with deportation. But he strikes me as a very unpleasant character, so I will leave his story to the mainstream media. You’ve probably heard as well that Nancy Pelosi is pushing for the Democrats to put a marriage plank in their party platform. A trusted Bay Times advisor pointed out that there’s no way she would have gone public with such a campaign without White House approval. That’s something I hadn’t thought of, but which must be true. I can also tell you, as a Texan who pays attention to state affairs, that a state appellate court has cancelled a recall election in El Paso due to violations of election law. The recall attempt, designed to punish the gay-friendly mayor and two council members, was organized by a church (which is against the law) with the help of undeclared funds (ditto). A trial court had allowed the campaign to proceed, insisting that the “will of the people” trumped the election code, but the appellate court ruled that the judge abused his discretion in the matter. A nd now another dense column comes to an end, unleavened by wit, trivia or tangents. I’m sorry for that, but it can’t be helped these days. Maybe next week. --A new column by Ann is available every week on sfbaytimes.com. You can reach her at arostow@aol.com.
Stories @sfbaytimes.com Twitter, and find us Facebook.
and follow us on on
BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23,
2012 17
CALENDAR
See many more Calendar items @www.sfbaytimes.com
compiled by Robert Fuggiti
Stephanie Teel Band performs at Luscious Live! East Bay Live Band Dance, Bench & Bar, Oakland (See listing Sunday, March 4th)
23 Thursday
4Bidden – The Cellar. A night where ladies are “4Bidden” to play nice. Drink specials all night. FREE before 11PM/$4 after. 685 Sutter St. www.cellarsf.com Comedy Bodega – Esta Nocha The new weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night’s hosted by “Mr. Gomez” (retired Telemundo extra and “associate” of comic Marga Gomez). 8PM-9:30PM. 3079 16th St. www. comedybodega.com
5PM). Exhibit Hall and Embassy Suites Ballroom, 10 Ave. of the Flags, San Rafael. www. marinshow.com Porter Robinson – Fox Theatre, Oakland. He’s young, he’s cute, and he’s incredibly popular; the dance/dubstep DJ electronic songster spins live. $25. 7:30PM. 1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland.
www. thefoxoakland.com
25 Saturday
Deepening Into Sacred Love Through Tantra – The Center for Healing & Expression Learn energy-moving breathwork, enjoy a sexual healing meditation that deepens your connection with self, and explore open-hearted, sacred interactions with others.
Tubesteak Connection – Aunt Charlie’s Lounge. Retro tunes and diverse crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10PM-2AM. 133 Turk St. www. auntcharlieslounge.com
Dick Gregory & Will Durst – The Rrazz Room. Political satirists Dick and Will share a comical, on-stage discussion . $35-$45. 4PM Also Feb 26, 3PM & 7PM; Feb 27, 8PM. 222 Mason St. www. TheRrazzRoom.com
24 Friday
AIDS Project of the East Bay – Good Vibrations AIDS Project of the East Bay host a special mixer and info night! Enjoy a light reception and store tour by staff sexologist Dr. Carol Queen, and meet the good folks at this wonderful organization. FREE. 5-7PM. 2504 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. 161 Erie St. www. apeb.org
1 8 BAY TIMES F EBRUARY 2 3 ,
Noise Pop and Hard French present Big Freedia – Public Works. This is a party for everyone: Drag queens mingle with lesbians, leather daddy’s soul dance with Cholas, sharps share hot dogs with activists, and jocks make out with twinks. $16. 9PM-2:30AM. www.publicsf.com Blowoff – Slim’s. Bob Mould and Richard Morel’s Blowoff is a musical smackdown of a party that has become a destination event for a wide cross-section of appreciative fans. Or as Mould succinctly puts it, “A music- centric gay dance party, drawing mainly, but not exclusively, men in their 30s and 40s.” $15. 10PM. 333 11th St. wwww.silms-sf.com
Visiting Vintners – Press Club Weekly wine-tasting event, with by-the-glass offering and tastings. Prices vary. 6-9PM. 20 Yerba Buena Ln. www.PressClubSF.com
Marin Art Show – Marin Civic Center, San Rafael. Art of the Americas showcase and sale of contemporary indigenous art and culture. Opening night preview party includes $25 and up. General art viewing/sales $15, Feb 25 & 26. 10PM-6PM (Sun til
Discover the nature of this sacred path that opens you to more sexual aliveness and to living the ecstatic life. $130. 10AM-6PM. 1749 O’Farrell St. www. lovejourneytantra.com
annual Oscar party. Cheer for your favorites during the live broadcast on multiple large screens while making the circuit through a stunning array of lounges, bars, restaurant booths, silent auction items, raffle drawings and live entertainment. $125 and up. 5-11PM. 101 Henry Adams St. www.academyoffriends.org Ellyn Marie Marsh – Martuni’s Star of Broadway’s Priscilla Queen of the Desert and the local production of Tommy performs her cabaret act; part of Ray of Light Theatre’s new Spotlight Cabaret Series. Open mic afterwards with Ray of Light musical director Ben Prince at the piano. 7PM. 4 Valencia St. www.ellynmarsh.com John Pizzarelli – The Fairmont Hotel. Pizzarelli performs with his wife Jessica Molasky in their biographical cabaret show When Worlds Collide. $40-$45. 8PM. 950 Mason St. www. bayareacabaret.org
27 Monday
26 Sunday
Writing from Life Experiences for Lesbians – The Pacific Center. Looking to jumpstart a project? Get thoughtful, supportive feedback and encouragement. Don’t miss this event. Eight Sunday afternoons. 6:30-9PM. 2/26-4/15. $250-350. 2212 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. www. pacificcenter.org New Orleans’ own Allen Toussaint is at Yoshi’s Oakland (See listing Wednesday, February 29th) 2012
Academy of Friends Gala – Galleria Design Center Scandalous is the theme of the
Andy Warhol’s Polaroids Exhibit (See listing Monday, February 27th)
Piano Bar 101 – Martuni’s Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. www.dragatmartunis.com
CLASSIFIEDS
Business Opportunities Graphic & Web Designer www.imagineit-design.com lori.au3@gmail.com
Andy Warhol: Polaroids – Berkeley Art Museum A selection of Andy’s polaroids are currently on view at the Berkeley Art Museum through May 20th. $7-10. 11AM-5PM. 2626 Bancroft Way. www.bampfa.com
Catering Gloria Swanson- Personal Chef, Cooking Demonstrations. Call 415.552.3232 to discuss your next menu! www.chefforhiresf.com, glofriasws@aol.com
28 Tuesday
Nellie McKay – The Rrazz Room Comic singer-actress performs I Want to Live, a musical parodytribute to the classic Susan Hayward film; “a zany film noir musical biography.” $30. 8PM. 222 Mason St. www.TheRrazzRoom. com
Financing
Above, Katharine Cole, Acoustic Again at Delores Park Café (See listing Friday, March 2nd). Below, Lou Harrison – A World of Music at Castro Theatre (See listing Tuesday, March 6th)
29 Wednesday
Allen Toussaint – Yoshi’s Oakland. Allen Toussaint has crossed many paths in his illustrious 40 years plus career in music. He has produced, written for, arranged, had his songs covered by, and performed with music giants Paul McCartney, Paul Simon, Elvis Costello, Patti LaBelle and countless others. $30. Feb 29 – Mar 1. 510 Embarcadero West. www.yoshis.com
1 Thursday
Sister Spit Kickoff Show – San Francisco Public Library The legendary, raucous, rowdy performance gang, Sister Spit, comes to your town with a vanload of multimedia, queer-centric brilliance! Don’t miss this multimedia explosion of tastemakers, novelists, luminaries, chanteuses, performance artists, poets and filmmakers. FREE. 2-5PM. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl. com
2 Friday
Katherine Cole, Acoustic Again – Dolores Park Café. One of the first artists to perform at Dolores Park Café over ten years ago returns for a rare solo performance. 7:30 PM. 501 Dolores St. www.doloresparkcafe. com
Wilde Chats – Sweet Inspirations Bakery. Wilde Chats is a loosely structured community-driven group get together every Saturday morning to discuss specific issues affecting us as gay men and our gay community. 10:30-11:30 AM. 2239 Market St.
Lauraarringtondance.com
6 Tuesday
Garage All Stars – The Garage Garage All Stars featuring Mister Ri’s Deceptively Strong Dance Project in Vindicated Violence and new work by Dominika Bednarska, Anna Nowka, and Kai West. $1020. 8PM. 975 Howard St. www.975howard.com
Luscious Live! – Bench & Bar. East Bay Live Band Dance with Stephanie Teel Band. $11 preevent/$15. 6-10PM. 510 17th St., Oakland. www.bettyslist.com
Lou Harrison: A World of Music – Castro Theatre. A feature-length portrait of the extraordinary composer/humanitarian, Mr. Lou Harrison with 20 years of collected footage. One night only! $25-125. 5:30 & 7PM. 429 Castro St. www. harrisondocumentary.com
Fortunate – Stage Werx 446 Some folks are born made to raise the rainbow flag. A solo show written and performed by Thao P. Nguyen Director: W. Kamau Bell. $20-40. 7PM. 446 Valencia. www. stagewerx.com
Secret Lovers – The Lexington Slow jams to make out to... Soul, oldies, and R&B dance party. DJ’s Lil MC, Katie Duck, PonyBoy and Durt. FREE. 9PM-12:30AM. 3463 19th St. www.lexingtonclub.com
4 Sunday
TLC Benefit – Edge SF A Day of TLC - a benefit for the Transgender Law Center. Open show at 5pm with special guest CASSANDRA CASS! and Emcee Kit Tapata. $10 beer bust. 4PM. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com
5 Monday
Donation Based Yoga – Sun Room Yoga Studio. Learn Yoga with Laura Arrington. $10-20 suggested. 9:15-10:45 AM. 2390 Mission, 3rd floor. www.
7 Wednesday
“I Do. Who Can’t?” Silicon Valley Leaders on Marriage Equality - The Commonwealth Club. Kathy Levinson, former president and COO of E*Trade, philanthropist and LGBT rights activist, will show the documentary “I Do. Who Can’t?”, a film designed to foster discussions about marriage equality. $12-20. 5:30 PM. 595 Market St. www. commonwealthclub.org
SURF DOG large dog boarding at Ocean Beach. Queer Owned. sfsurfdogs.com. (415) 637-7717 DOG TRAINING in Your Home Cindy Gehring, Dog Trainer 408-238-1540, DogHelpNow@gmail.com, www.cindygehring.com
Self Defense Soko Joshi Judo & Self Defense Club for Women. 415-821-0303 phdshelley@sbcglobal.net
Tax Preparation The Lesbian Tax Mom 510-653-4323 taxmomsusan@yahoo.com
Therapy
B. Scott Levine 510-763-2300 bscottlevine@gmail.com
Experienced Psychologist - LGBTQ Issues Castro - Sliding Scale - Diana Gray, PhD (PSY10607) 415-309-4729
Massage
Barbara A. Adler, LMFT. PsychotherapyConsultation- Education- Training. barbaraadlerLMFT.com, 415-990-9137.
Gay-Latino Fiction
Parenting Bearracuda – Rickshaw Stop Featuring DJs Matt Consola and Craig Gaibler. $6-8. 9PM-2AM. 155 Fell St. www.bearracuda.com/sf
Pets
Legal Services
El Cerrito Hills-I80-Men: Info: www.rickoz2.com
Kinky Beats - Café Flore Sergio’s weekly DJ night at the popular café-bar, with 2 for 1 martinis. 9PM-1:30AM. 2298 Market St. www.cafeflore.com
You want children, so do I. Let’s talk. For more information about me, visit http://sites.google. com/site/mike949h/
www.BellicoseBoys.com features two Mexican-Americans: An academic Harvard and an athlete Matt-the-jock.
In Memory of Our Friend Who Left Us 20 Years Ago “Troy” Harry Roy Naranjo June 12, 1951 – February 20, 1992 You went into God’s care twenty years ago and left your friends here in San Francisco and the Bay Area, California, missing you. Your family in the Denver area and in Pueblo, CO, where you were raised and graduated from Centennial High School, think of you too. Marc, John, Diane, Marilyn, Sandy, Norty and I still miss your GQ style in clothes, cat eyes, smile and gusto for life and partying in The City. You were the little brother I never had, Troy, and my best friend I had hoped to party with until too old. We were supposed to grow old together as friends or brothers. I still remember you whenever I hear your favorite songs, “Gloria” and “I will survive!” and the few times now when I hear the saying from SNL on television: “Oh no, Mr. Bill!” Some day we will join you and your other friends who are with you now: Daven Balcomb, David Peck, Bill Beck, Jeffrey Heefner, Kim Nelson, Tony Grech, Daniel Klundt , Ted Yukor, Bill Spalding, John Watson, to name a few. Bless You, Troy Naranjo!
Lots more Calendar
3 Saturday
Three’s Company – Finn’s Funhouse. Don’t miss the wacky high-jinx, misunderstandings and pratfalls with San Francisco’s take on Three’s Company. Catfights and Shoulderpads Productions presents two of your favorite Three’s Company episodes live! $20. 7 & 9 PM. 814 Grove. Eat Our Shorts 4 – Stage Werx 446. GuyWriters Theatre Company presents an evening of 7 comedic short plays that explore the ups and downs of dating, relationships, and love in that often unpredictable world called San Francisco. $15-20. 8PM. 446 Valencia. www.stagewerx.com
Insurance COVER YOUR ASSETS: Insurance for YOUR community. Life, Disability, Final Expense. Aaron Van Arsdale 415-717-4984. aaron. insure@gmail.com. Life Agent Lic # 0G10774
Susan Surftone – Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge. Lesbian surf guitarist performs classic and contemporary surf music with her band. Free. 5OM. 1304 Lincoln Ave., Alameda. www. forbiddenislandalameda.com Carly Ozard’s Farewell SF Cabaret – DNA Lounge. San Francisco native & favorite Carly Ozard says a fond adieu to her native SF. This fond farewell is a musical look back on one of San Francisco’s beloved cabaret singers. Proceed to Benefit PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support). $20. 7PM. 375 11th St. www. paws.org, www.dnalounge.com
Is a Reverse Mortgage for You? Are you at least 62 years of age and own your home? Get paid a monthly amount, line of credit or a lump sum payment. You always retain full ownership. Call Lauren Dunlap, Nova Mortgage. (510) 540-7911 / (415) 753-2272.
Gay Man Looking to be a Known Donor for a Lesbian/Couple. 5’10’’, excellent health, HIV neg., with high fertility numbers, educated (Masters), athletic, attractive, and descend from two loving and long-lived Spanish families. www.gayfamilyoptions.com item /221
items await you
online Carly Ozard’s Farewell SF Cabaret at DNA Lounge on Tues., February 28
@sfbaytimes.com BAY T IM ES F EBRUARY 23,
2012 19
HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US. HIV ENDS WITH US.
All of us have the basic tools to end HIV. To see what you can do, visit nmac.org and watch the exclusive Wendy Williams video. Then pass it on. UN11863 1/12
5011-14_GIL_WendyWilliams_BayTimes.indd 1
2/3/12 10:11 AM