San Francisco Bay Times - November 28, 2019 by San Francisco Bay Times

BAY TIMES S

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019) November 28–December 4, 2019 | http://sfbaytimes.com

Sister Dana Rises from the Ashes

PHOTO BY PHYLLIS COSTA

See pages 2–3

Fire in the Castro

Community Rallies to Help Those Impacted by Castro Fire At least two GoFundMe pages are now up to help those who were affected by the fire that broke out at 454 and 456 Castro Street on the morning of November 16. The first to be established, by The San Francisco Bay Area Leather Alliance, Inc., shares that the blaze was among the Castro’s biggest residential fires in decades.

PHOTO BY RINK

“Starting at the back of the buildings above the beloved Q Bar and Osaka restaurant, the fire gutted several apartments before dawn Saturday morning. Seven residents have lost their homes. Neighboring homes and stores are damaged. At least one person is facing immediate health challenges and all have been through a severely traumatic event. Folks’ treasured possessions and furnishings have been destroyed. Even those things that escaped burning may be filled with toxic smoke residue and need to be replaced.” “The neighbors are looking at severe water damage and related issues such as mold. Q Bar and Osaka will be closed for the time being, and their employees are out of work as well. San Francisco’s housing crisis and astronomical rents only pile on the challenges for these individuals who have already faced a tragic loss.”

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“Our community needs our help at this time. While the City is doing what it can, public resources are limited and likely come with more

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San Francisco Bay Times columnist and longtime Sister of Perpetual Indulgence Dennis McMillan/Sister Dana Van Iquity was among those impacted by the fire. He shares his personal account of what happened in this issue.

Please consider contributing to the online fundraisers, attending the fundraiser at Beaux, and doing your holiday shopping this season in the Castro. As Supervisor Rafael Mandelman told the SF Chronicle, “Our neighborhood is struggling with vacant storefronts. It’s a challenge. This is another blow our neighborhood didn’t need.”

Q Bar/Osaka Sushi Fire Relief Fundraiser to Take Place on November 30

A View from a Fire (With Apologies to Claude Lévi-Strauss)

But when I drew up the blinds, I looked down and to the left to see a building completely engulfed in flames. The whole roof was on fire. The entire side was blazing. Fire shot through all the doors and windows. I opened my window and popped my head out to get a closer look, but soon backed up to avoid the scorching heat, billowing smoke, and terrible fumes. Watching the fire make its way up the banister leading to the outside of my little studio, I prayed like never before. In the middle of my prayers and wailing (yes, I was afraid and felt it necessary to wail), a firefighter grabbed me away from the window and ushered me downstairs to stand outside on Castro Street with the other victims. It was freezing cold that early morning. Fortunately, I was wearing sweat pants and grabbed a coat; but many were caught with only light clothing and blankets issued by the Red Cross.

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Castro Street had been closed off with over a dozen fire trucks and EMT vehicles occupying both sides of the street. Caution tape was everywhere. Streams of water swept the curbs. We residents stood freezing in the morning air—constantly requesting entrance to our homes. The Fire Chief, proudly revealing she was lesbian, kept giving me updates. She assured me, “Your cat is safe. It’s just a little water in your place.” Just a little water? So, after standing helpless since 4 am, we were allowed back into the building at 10:30 am where my feet squished on my carpet (like a little pond), windows had been smashed, and a hole in the left ceiling corner had been axed. Pieces of wood, big glass shards, and plaster chunks were everywhere. My TV had been thrown face-down on top of some furniture on the bed. The picture was thus destroyed—with huge cracks on the glass. A friend joked, “Makes it rather difficult to watch porn, huh?” Yes, not to mention any programming at all. And I’m a TV addict—notably a politics junkie. Fast forward a few days. Workers came to furiously rip up carpet (six hours of wretched noise and foul stench in my presence, with ceiling hole covered up with plastic and duct tape). So attractive. And they

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PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

By Dennis McMillan It was about 4 am on Saturday, November 16. Night owl insomniac that I am, I had just taken my Zolpidem sleeping pill to get ready for bed, when I noticed my white Levolor blinds were a blaring orange color. Living right next door to Castro’s Q Bar, I figured they were trying out a new light system.

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A second GoFundMe has since been established by Troix Boyd. Boyd writes: “The fire in the Castro in the early morning of November 16th, 2019, destroyed my home. Basically, I lost everything and the structural fire resulted in my home being red tagged. I’m raising money to replace household items such as a bed, bedding, a dresser, clothes, work clothing, shoes, kitchen appliances, dishes, pots/pans, bath and hygiene needs, etc., and all of the things I need to create a new home, rebuild my life, and return some sense of normalcy. So I just kindly ask for your support.” https://bit.ly/2q JeNGP

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rules and regulations than private funds. Please dig a little deeper and help make sure these folks have a buffer to help them through this holiday season.” https://bit.ly/33hKiou

upgraded (!?) me to an even noisier, massive Phoenix 200 dehumidifier. Perhaps it somehow pertains to my “rising like a Phoenix from the ashes”? Anyway, my dear friends bought me a brand new 50-inch Smart TV— but workers broke that one too. Two dead TVs in one week: gotta be a record! So now I only have Internet. Sigh. Side note: after this, I can truly separate my many many loving, caring close friends from mere Facebook “friends.” In conclusion, I think I should clarify that I am NOT a victim of the fires; I am a victim of the firefighters. But that’s just me being selfish about their not being overly careful with MY stuff. So what? They have lives to save. Get over it, Dennis! Meanwhile, if you care about my fellow survivors, check out https://bit.ly/2KJu5SL

Heklina, Tom Temprano, Juanita MORE!, Just Shannon, Shawn Vergara, and Christopher Vasquez are hosting a Castro Fire Fundraiser, which will take place on Saturday, November 30, at Beaux. They write that since Osaka Sushi and Q Bar suffered from serious water, fire, and smoke damage that have forced these businesses to close for an undetermined amount of time, all of the staff at these businesses are now out of work. The impacted individuals, if possible, are relying on their other gigs to get by while the damage is accessed and the necessary repairs are made. (Q Bar is using its social media space to promote upcoming events featuring its popular staff, dancers, and DJs.) The organizers of the Beaux event write: “We will be having a HUGE unity fundraiser to show solidarity with these two businesses to raise money to support their displaced employees, and to come together to show our love

for everything they have given us over the years.” The fundraiser at Beaux will include an afternoon of drinks, music, raffles, and, most importantly, fundraising from the community. There will be a beer bust from 4–7 pm, but the entertainment—with gogos, DJs, and drag queens—will start at 3. The raffle will feature prizes from many of the fellow queer-owned bars, restaurants, and shops in San Francisco. For supporting the event and/or providing raffle prizes, thanks go to the organizers, State Senator Scott Wiener, District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman’s Office, The Detour SF/Blackbird, Jolene’s Bar San Francisco, Lookout, SF Oasis, DAD/Dudes and Disco, and many others, including Beaux. Q Bar/Osaka Sushi Fire Relief Fundraiser Saturday, November 30 3 pm–7 pm Beaux 2344 Market Street, SF

BAY TIMES S

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun

Davies Symphony Hall (2019)

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Three Sisters sewing at the Names Project

Light in the Grove (2018)

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Dennis McMillan (aka Sister Dana) with AGUILAS’ Eduardo Morales and

Community Relations Senior Consultant, whose unwavering commitment, compassion, and generosity have resulted in myriad philanthropic partnerships with Bay Area organizations and communities. https://www.facebook.com/events/438252236809276/

Sister Dana sez, “With all this evidence piling up against tyrant Trump, will Repugnican Congressmen eventually grow a pair, impeach and remove the presi-dense; or will the fool just save his orange skin and STEP DOWN?!!”

Burning Man (1996)

Cleve Jones' birthday celebration (2017)

Project Nunway (2019)

With performer Sharon McNight at Songs of the Season (2017)

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PHOTO BY RINK

ACADEMY OF FRIENDS 40TH ANNIVERSARY GALA KICKOFF was held on November 22 at The Academy, 2166 Market. The

THE T-MOBILE WINTER PARK AT CIVIC CENTER celebrated the opening of its second annual season on November 22 with an official ceremony featuring remarks from California State Senator Scott Wiener, District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney,

PHOTO BY RINK

THE AIDS MEMORIAL QUILT is moving to San Francisco under the stewardship of the National AIDS Memorial, while the Library of Congress will preserve the quilt’s vast archival collections. See the story on page 5 of this issue and watch the video of the important announcement: https://bit.ly/37toHwF

It was a busy night on Thanksgiving Eve with a BENEFIT FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE CASTRO FIRES at Oasis nightclub at 8 pm. This flawless fundraiser was hosted by us Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence with a helluva lotta gorge drag performances. As most people are aware, a large fire broke out across from the historic Castro Theatre early last Saturday morning, injuring two people and displacing at least 13 residents.

PHOTO BY RINK

Sister Dana sez, “Good news: Chick-fil-A says it’s going to stop donating to anti-LGBTQ organizations as it tries to expand its business into more liberal parts of the country and abroad. Hoorah! Our activism has finally paid off!”

HARVEY MILK LGBT DEMOCRATIC CLUB sponsored “41- REMEMBERING HARVEY MILK & GEORGE MOSCONE,” which took place on November 27, starting at 7 pm in Harvey Milk Plaza. On November 27, 1978, Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk were murdered in cold blood. Every year, the Milk Club remembers the movement these men created and how their tragic and senseless deaths galvanized our communities to fight. We therefore gathered with candles and flowers at Milk Plaza in our vigil of reflection and to reaffirm our commitment to the vision these men had. A short audio-visual program was followed by a procession to the site of Castro Camera (575 Castro Street, Milk’s old supervisorial campaign headquarters) where those who knew them said a few words.

Sister Dana sez, “Here are some Jorge Sanchez enjoying the Soirée on the Bay II aboard the Celebrity Eclipse at Pier 27 on Wednesday, November 13.Photo by Paul Margolis Upcoming Events you might want to check out as part of your HORIZONS FOUNDATION presents Dear Santa Wish List!” the 10TH ANNUAL STATE OF THE The 26th annual WORLD AIDS DAY LGBTQ MOVEMENT. Join national and NATIONAL OBSERVANCE will be held on international leaders of the LGBTQ moveSunday, December 1, from 12 pm to 1:30 pm at ment for a discussion on where our movement the NATIONAL AIDS MEMORIAL. The is headed as we approach 2020. December 3, 6 observance is open to the public, free of charge. to 7:30 pm, San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin Street, Koret Auditorium. 2019 World AIDS Day Unsung Hero Honoree https://www.horizonsfoundation.org/ is Leslie Ewing, LGBTQ & AIDS Community Leader & Activist. Leslie Ewing is a longTHE SAFEWAY HOLIDAY ICE RINK IN time resident of the Berkeley/Oakland area UNION SQUARE is celebrating a decade who has dedicated much of her life to LGBTQ of DRAG QUEENS ON ICE! San Franciscivil rights. On July 31 of this year she retired co’s most fabulous holiday tradition returns as Executive Director of the Pacific Center in on Thursday, December 5, at 8 pm. To celeBerkeley, the oldest LGBTQ+ center in the brate the milestone, this year’s event will feaBay Area (and third oldest in the nation), offerture new acts, audience surprises, and, of ing vibrant youth programs, peer groups, coun- course, dozens of San Francisco’s fiercest seling and psychotherapy, serving more than drag queens. Emmy Award-winning radio 3,000 people at four locations throughout and TV personality Liam Mayclem will Alameda County. She served for over a decade, join Donna Sachet as co-host of the event. helping the organization to grow, evolve, and https://unionsquareicerink.com/ better meet the needs of the thousands who Each year, the SAN FRANCISCO LESbenefit from its services. BIAN/GAY FREEDOM BAND blends Prior to that, the 10TH ANNUAL LIGHT Tchaikovsky’s classic The Nutcracker Ballet with an entertaining theme. The result is a fun-filled IN THE GROVE fundraiser is on Saturday, original musical production brimming with wit, November 30, 6 to 9:30 pm. This unique event artistry, and ingenuity. The talented cast sings has become an iconic San Francisco staple. On and dances their way through a parody version the eve of every World AIDS Day, the National of the The Nutcracker. And when the “DanceAIDS Memorial is artistically-illuminated with brilliant light displays. Guests experience a can- Along” sign flashes, the audience is invited to tug on their tutus and sashay along with the dlelight reflection at the Circle of Friends and cast. DANCE-ALONG NUTCRACKER wander reflectively through the illuminated Redwood Grove to a warmly-lit tent where they - NUTCRACKER IN SPACE is at Yerba will enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a buffet Buena Center for the Arts Forum, 701 Mission Street; Saturday, December 7, 3 pm & 7 pm dinner with musical and choreographed perforand Sunday, December 8, 11 am & 3 pm. mances. This year’s Lifetime of Commitment honoree is Mario P. Diaz, former Wells Fargo https://dance-along-nutcracker.sflgfb.org/

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

SOIRÉE ON THE BAY II was a fabulous fundraiser for RICHMOND-ERMET AID FOUNDATION (REAF) on November 13 aboard the docked Celebrity Eclipse ship, Pier 27. Starting with champagne and wine in the lounge, ogling the mermaids and mermen in the pool; then ship personnel offering a live band for dancing and watching acrobats perform; and for the grand finale: Franc D’Ambrosio belting out songs from his world-renowned stage role of The Phantom of the Opera. Mayor London Breed presented certificates of commendation to REAF and to LaTonya Lawson of Celebrity. Everything was utterly ship shape!

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

City Administrator Naomi Kelly, General Manager of the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department Phil Ginsburg, and Senior Community Engagement Advisor at the San Francisco Police Department Derick Brown. German Wheel Artist Cornell Freeney and 2019 U.S. National Champion Alysa Liu dazzled the crowd with on-ice entertainment, and 100 local youth from San Francisco City Academy took to the ice for the first skate of the season.

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Sister Dana sez, “Christmas came early for me—in the form of Impeachment Hearings, despite the two Grinches, Congressmen Nunes and Jordan!”

PHOTO BY RINK

By Sister Dana Van Iquity

Academy of Friends celebrated their 40th Anniversary Gala Kick-Off along with announcing their new partnership. We friends were there to hear about these exciting new developments and enjoy a few cocktails, as well as some delicious hors d’oeuvres. So now I can with much exhilaration mention that the Academy of Friends is partnering with THE LGBT ASYLUM PROJECT as a “long-term relationship,” including as their annual Oscar Gala beneficiary. Asylum Executive Director and cofounder Okan Sengun reminded us that being HIV+ abroad is often both illegal and punishable by death. He took pride that 100% of their HIV+ cases had successful outcomes. Oh, and BTW know that the Oscar Gala theme is Ruby Red (as the so totally proper 40th anniversary color). So put on your ruby red slippers and celebrate! Through their annual ACADEMY AWARDS NIGHT GALA, they have raised almost $9 million to support more than 73 HIV/AIDS service organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area. http://www.academyoffriends.org/

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Will an Ambulance Dump You on the Side of the Road? sonal religious beliefs. Under the Trump-Pence administration’s new religious “conscience” rule, more aptly called the “denial of care” rule, they could refuse you services at any time because the medical provider, like most medical facilities nationwide, received particular types of federal funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

6/26 and Beyond Stuart Gaffney & John Lewis Imagine you’re a transgender person who after years of waiting finally has been able to have lifeaffirming gender confirmation surgery. But some unlikely and unexpected complication arises, and you need to be rushed to the nearest ER. When in the ambulance en route you tell the EMT what’s going on; the EMT commands the driver to stop the car immediately. After the EMT and driver exchange a few words among themselves, they open the door and dump you on the side of the road— left on your own to somehow make it to the ER.

Fortunately for the time being, this scenario is less likely to take place because Northern California Federal District Judge William Alsup last week joined federal court judges in New York and Washington State in ruling that the denial of care rule had no basis in law and enjoined its enforcement nationwide.

The breadth of the Trump-Pence Administration’s denial of care rule that they are attempting to enforce is astonishing. The rule’s preamble focuses on abortion-related care and services, but the new regulation applies to any medical service provider who objects to providing their services to anyone for any religious belief. In the context of TrumpPence political strategy, it is clear that the rule panders to conservative political Christian interests and targets women, LGBTIQ people— You later learn that your having especially transgender people—and gender confirmation surgery had other politically vulnerable popuoffended the EMT and driver’s per- lations.

Judge Alsup in his ruling explicates how the denial of service rule does not just apply to physicians and nurses, but to ambulance drivers and many other staff who have at best a remote connection to the medical care being provided. Using abortion (and that includes emergency abortions necessary to save the life of the mother) as an example, Alsup explains that “a clerk scheduling surgeries for an operating room could refuse to reserve slots for abortions ... . So could an employee who merely sterilizes and places surgical instruments or ensures that the supply cabinets in the operating room are fully stocked in preparation for an abortion.” Professional staff who provide “[p] re- and post-op tasks [that] include monitoring and ensuring that a patient is stable and/or recovering following a procedure such as taking vitals and placing an intravenous line” could refuse to do so based on their religious objections. “Medical laboratories run tests that assist in diagnosing or in analyzing the outcome of certain procedures” could close their doors to people they chose to based on religious grounds. Pharmacists whose “only possible role in an abortion ... procedure would be dispensing advance medication to facilitate the procedure or post-procedure medication to stabi-

lize or heal the patient, such as pain medication” could turn their backs on a patient. Housekeeping staff could even object to cleaning a patient’s hospital room. And “an entity could lose all of its HHS funding if it fired a hospital front-desk employee for refusing to tell a woman seeking an emergency abortion for a [life-threatening] pregnancy which floor she needed to go to for her procedure.” Although we are gratified that three federal district courts have struck down the denial of care rule that could cause so much harm, these cases will very likely wind their ways through the federal appellate courts and could ultimately end up at the U.S. Supreme Court. And that’s one of numerous reasons that arch anti-LGBTIQ conservative Brian Brown’s October 29th tweet of a photo of himself with Justices Samuel Alito and Brett Kavanaugh and very conservative Catholics advocates inside the Supreme Court itself deeply disturbs us. The New Yorker reports that Brown believes that “the rights of L.G.B.T. people shouldn’t be protected at all—that, in his ideal society, there would be no L.G.B.T. people, in fact.”

Brown’s misnamed National Organization for Marriage is a strident opponent of LGBTIQ equality in the U.S. and worldwide. The group has filed numerous legal briefs against LGBTIQ rights, including briefs in the employment discrimination cases now pending before the Court—even as Brown met with Alito and Kavanaugh inside the Court. We are a democracy, not a theocracy. But even from a religious point of view, it seems particularly incongruous for people who purport to be devout Christians to trumpet denying medical care to other human beings. After all, one of the things that Jesus of the Gospels is most famous for is healing the sick. He didn’t assert conscience-based religious objections to caring for people. Where is that compassion now? John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney, together for over three decades, were plaintiffs in the California case for equal marriage rights decided by the California Supreme Court in 2008. Their leadership in the grassroots organization Marriage Equality USA contributed in 2015 to making same-sex marriage legal nationwide.

Marching Toward Universal Healthcare with Subsidies ing federal help will also qualify for the new state subsidy. With the future of federal subsidies unclear since the Trump Administration has been trying to sabotage the ACA, additional support for our most vulnerable residents is critical. California is determined to push forward and leave nobody behind.

Assemblymember Phil Ting If you are fortunate enough to have health insurance through your employer, you probably filled out your forms recently, allowing you to adjust or continue your coverage for next year. But over seven percent of Californians, or 2.7 million, are still uninsured, despite big gains made under the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA). While 93% of our residents have health coverage, we need everybody to be insured. To move the needle toward universal healthcare, the state is offering financial assistance for the first time to help middle-income residents afford health insurance through Covered California, the state’s marketplace for health plans. In fact, we’re the first state in the country to extend subsidies to this group. This benefits people who don’t qualify for existing federal subsidies or government programs because they exceed income limits; yet they don’t make enough to comfortably afford insurance on their own. Through the budget process, the Legislature allocated $429 million to help individuals who earn $50,000 to $70,000 a year; or up to $154,500 for a family of four. We estimate nearly a quarter-million Californians fall into this category. New state subsidies for them will average $170 a month— welcome relief from paying the entire cost of premiums, which often top $1,000 a month. Another 663,000 low to moderateincome Californians already receiv4

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A thriving health insurance market only works when everyone is in it, both sick and healthy people. That helps prevent premiums from rising. Otherwise, those without insurance tend to use the emergency room where services are more expensive. The uninsured are also more likely forego preventative care, which is key to catching ailments early when they’re cheaper to treat, compared to later stages. The higher cost of care for a few consequently drives up the price of insurance for all. To ensure premiums stay reasonable, California will begin to mandate health coverage, beginning in 2020. (Note that there is no longer a federal mandate to carry health insurance.) Again, we cannot just have sick people in the insurance pool. The Franchise Tax Board will be responsible for enforcing the cost of not having insurance: $695 per adult; half that per child; or 2.5% of annual household income, whichever is higher.

Lambda Legal, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Center for Reproductive Rights have joined forces in opposition to the Denial of Care Rule. Americans United president Rachel Klaser has said, “The Denial of Care Rule condones discrimination by health care workers–our trusted medical professionals on who we rely in our most vulnerable moments.” #denialofcare https://bit.ly/2J8auvk Americans United for Separation of Church and State http://www.au.org

Photos by Rink

The 10th annual Light in the Grove fundraising gala will be on November 30. Completely unique and always a sell-out, it is attended by 700 guests and was voted best LGBT fundraiser in the Bay Area. On the eve of World AIDS Day, the National AIDS Memorial is artistically illuminated with light displays. Guests experience a candlelight

reflection at the Circle of Friends and wander reflectively through the illuminated Redwood Grove to a warmly-lit tent where they enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a buffet dinner with musical and choreographed performances.

We’re hoping that the state subsidies and individual mandate will bring us closer to having 100% of Californians insured. Once the state Legislature reconvenes in January, I’m committed to continuing our work to achieve universal healthcare.

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Center for Reproductive Rights http://www.reproductiverights.org

Tenth Light in the Grove to Be Held on November 30

The good news is there’s still time to sign up! Open enrollment to buy your own health insurance is underway at the Covered California website ( https://www.coveredca.com/ ). The deadline is January 31st, however, if you sign up by December 15, your coverage will take effect at the beginning of 2020.

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

Lambda Legal http://www.lambdalegal.org

This year’s Lifetime of Commitment honoree is Mario P. Diaz, former Wells Fargo Community Relations Senior Consultant. Since 1989, Diaz has held various positions within the Wells Fargo Foundation, and most recently, up through his retirement of July 15, 2019, managed the charitable philanthropic program and volunteerism for the Greater San Francisco Region. https://aidsmemorial.org/2019-light-in-the-grove/ Last years Light In the Grove (2018)

AIDS Memorial Quilt Is Coming Home to SF Photos by Mike Shriver, National AIDS Memorial

The NAMES Project Foundation (NPF) on November 20 announced that the National AIDS Memorial will become the new caretaker of the AIDS Memorial Quilt and NAMES Project programs. As part of the transition, the NAMES Project and the National AIDS Memorial have agreed to jointly gift care and stewardship of The Quilt’s archival collections to the prestigious American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, making this collection available through the world’s largest public library. This historic decision will return The Quilt to the San Francisco Bay Area, where 32 years ago during the height of the AIDS epidemic, a group of strangers gathered at a San Francisco storefront to remember the names and lives of their loved ones they feared history would forget—and with that seemingly simple act of love and defiance, the first panels of The Quilt were created. “This is the culmination of decades of work that achieves a vision long held by The NAMES Project leadership who, armed with an unwavering commitment to The Quilt, were determined to see that the AIDS Memorial Quilt would stand the test of time,” said Julie Rhoad, President & CEO of the NPF. “With this set of new caretakers, we are confident

that the legacy of The Quilt and The NAMES Project is secure.” Since 1987, the NPF has cared for The Quilt and its associated archives. Headquartered in Atlanta since 2001, as the caretakers of this memorial and vast cultural archives, it has been dedicated to the mission of remembrance, education, and conscience. Last week’s announcement is the culmination of long-term planning and vision to seek new institutional partners to care for The Quilt, and in doing so, secure not only the legacy of The Quilt, but also its ability to teach for generations to come. Center for Social Conscience The Quilt and its programs, which include display activities, panel making, conservation, and public education efforts, will transition to the National AIDS Memorial in early 2020, becoming an integral part of its mission to provide, in perpetuity, a place of remembrance so that the lives of people who died from AIDS are not forgotten and that their stories are known and understood by future generations. The Quilt will be an essential component of a “Center for Social Conscience” that the National AIDS Memorial plans to build in the coming years, which will be grounded in the story of the AIDS epidemic, social justice, action, and change.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi applauds the return of the historic commemorative AIDS Memorial Quilt to its original home in San Francisco, where 32 years ago during the height of the AIDS epidemic, a group of strangers gathered at a San Francisco storefront to remember the names and lives of their loved ones they feared history would forget and created the first panels of The Quilt to remember them.

“The National AIDS Memorial and The Quilt, through their very existence, have had a tremendous impact in telling the story of the AIDS crisis and the AIDS movement, a story of social justice,” said John Cunningham, Executive Director of the National AIDS Memorial. “This announcement honors the stewardship by The NAMES Project Foundation over the past three decades in passionately caring for The Quilt and ensures its permanent home will continue to forever honor its history, the lives, struggles, despair, inequity, and hope that it represents.” Archival Collection

John Cunningham, Executive Director of the National AIDS Memorial, talks about the significance of the AIDS Memorial Quilt and its move back to its original home in San Francisco as part of the National AIDS Memorial.

The American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress will become the new home for the National AIDS Memorial Quilt Archive in 2020. This archival collection currently totals more than 200,000 items. It includes biographical records, correspondence, photographs, tributes, epitaphs, news clippings, and artifacts submitted by panel (continued on page 26)

Four individuals ceremoniously unfold one of the first AIDS Memorial Quilt panels ever sewn, memorializing Marvin Feldman at a special event announcing the return of the historic AIDS Memorial Quilt to its original home in San Francisco. S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

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Thank You, #44 So, hey, if I might ask, exactly what are you doing these days? I do appreciate that you and former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder have launched a new initiative ( https://allontheline.org/ ) to end partisan gerrymandering of congressional districts. Thank you for that. I’ve also watched Factory, your first Netflix production with Michelle—fantastic. So good on you both for that, and thank you.

Cross Currents Andrea Shorter Oh, President Obama. Mr. President, you have been on my mind. Yes, you have. As we pause to give thanks for all of the good things and blessings we have in our daily lives, might I just say that I am so thankful for you. Yes, I can? I so am.

I’ve also noticed that you unleashed the more woke than you’ll ever be twitter furies when you recently advised, counseled, chastised, whatever you want to call it, against confusing twitter wokeness by calling out and canceling out folks with actual activism to create real social change. Word? Damn, Obama, you are bold. You are right about all that, but poking at that buzzy twitter-hive? It needed to be said. Thank you.

If that’s what you’re saying, I think we should listen. It’s not the popular thing that some party faithful, or Democratic Socialist party faithful want to hear right now as the seductive press for big revolutionary and structural upheaval abound in contest with a sure thing to win in 2020. This internal big-tent party tension is heating up; that’s for certain. If we only had that one candidate who could actually bring and hold those apparently divergent path-takers together through to victory in 2020. President Obama, any idea, hints, or clues as to whom you think that might be? Hm? Oh, you’re staying mum on that, guiding the process along the way, but letting the process process? Ok, then. That probably remains the better policy. To our former leader of whatever is left of the free world, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for not having moral-deficient, scandal, and indictment riddled, definitely about to be impeached two-term administrations. Instead, your leadership inspired pride.

What I am most appreciative of about is your semi-reluctant engagement (maybe, meddling to some) in discussions about the Democratic presidential primary to Make America Sane Again. Your word to the wise: steering policy platforms too far to the left makes for certain defeat of a Democratic win for the White House in 2020. Ouch, Obama! You’re killing us here. What do you mean? Are you just taking swipes at top-tier candidates #2 and #3 who are promoting mandatory Medicare for All over improving your landmark Affordable Care aka ObamaCare? Is that it? I don’t think so. You’ve never been that kind of petty, self-serving guy we now have in the White House.

No President was or will ever be perfect. After all, thus far you have only been mere mortal men. You might, however, be as close to the most perfect president I will know in my lifetime. I guess as the first Black president, you’d have to be, right? You couldn’t have gotten away with even a tenth of the mess that this man ... ooh, don’t get me started.

I see you over there, and you know you look good. Even in a photoshopped pic of your sporting a George Clooney-esque salt and pepper beard that went viral as #ObamaBeard, fake beard or no beard you look good doing whatever you do wherever and with whomever. Presi-

No, no. See, I think you are warning Dems against flubbing up what could be a close but so totally winnable race against the worst and most dangerous president ever by NOT alienating crucial middle American blocs, every pinkish suburb bordering on purple, and ready to douse and defect from this Trumpster-fire Republicans that can help to fortify what should be the coalition that Obama built—oh, that’s you!—to win two terms as POTUS.

Andrea Shorter is a Commissioner and the former President of the historic San Francisco Commission on the Status of Women. She is a longtime advocate for criminal and juvenile justice reform, voter rights and marriage equality. A Co-Founder of the Bayard Rustin LGBT Coalition, she was a 2009 David Bohnett LGBT Leadership Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

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I know your initial post-presidential plan was to lay low and stay out of the limelight, other than providing us that rare photo-op of you court-side at an NBA Finals game sporting stylish not-so-mom-ish jeans, ultra-suave lambskin leather or nylon bomber jackets that have “44” stitch on the left sleeve, or the occasional semidaring semi-athletic stuff you like to do such as wind surfing in warm Oahu beach waters, just enjoying a well-deserved, semi-retired good, good life at 58 years old.

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Anyway, thank you, thank you, President Obama. And thank you in advance for the guidance and support that you will provide to the next must be damn near perfect Democrat president, be he gay or be she she—thank you. Don’t be a stranger, and stay in touch, ok? XOXO.

MICHELLE OBAMA/INSTAGRAM

dent Obama, you so chill, I get chills just thinking about ‘cha. You know I do.

Michelle Obama visiting the portrait of Barack Obama at the National Portrait Gallery, Washington, D.C.

Michelle Obama’s book has sold more than 10 million copies since its release. The recorded version is Grammy nominated in the Best Spoken Word Album category. The Grammy Awards event will be held on January 26, 2020. Michelle Obama/Twitter: "So thrilled to receive a #GRAMMYs nomination! This past year has been such a meaningful, exhilarating ride. I’ve loved hearing your stories and continuing down the road of becoming together. Thank you for every ounce of love and support you’ve shared so generously." #IAmBecoming

Message from Leadership

Looking Back to Look Forward

By Michael Gunther As another year comes to a close, I always find this to be a good time to reflect on the lessons learned and in order to begin charting the path for the coming year. As a member of the Board of Directors for the GGBA, it is always surprising to me what a committed group of volunteers can create to enhance the advocacy for LGBTQ businesses, as well as the community as a whole.

As we look into a new year, the GGBA and the Board are looking forward to enhancing our monthly Make Contacts, creating new education opportunities, such as the High Performance Acceleration Program, continuing with our advocacy (especially with the Supreme Court determining if it is okay to fire LGBTQ individuals without cause), along with establishing new ways to engage and connect members with each other and with organizations that desire to grow their diverse supplier spend.

In fact, I am quite amazed at what the GGBA can accomplish in a year without any staff and with only a handful of contractors and volunteers. I have been on more than 10 nonprofit boards over the years that have the power of a paid staff to implement the programs that we create together. Simon Sinek stated, “A small team, committed to a cause bigger than themselves, can achieve absolutely anything,” and I believe this describes the GGBA.

In addition, we want to encourage members to become volunteers to support our current and future activities this coming year. Whether you have a few hours a month or a few hours a quarter, your involvement matters and can have a huge impact on the success of our organization. Furthermore, for individuals who want to grow their leadership skills and impact the LGBTQ community, we invite you to join our active Board of Directors so that we can continue providing services and advocacy for our members and community.

Over the last 12 months, our volunteer GGBA Board of Directors created 12 monthly Make Contacts networking events with over 1000 attendees throughout the year. They generated opportunities for more than 30 LGBT certified businesses to “pitch” their products and services to organizations such as GAP, PG&E, AT&T, and Wells Fargo. Their Power Lunch program had over 400 attendees with speakers from the UN and Mexico to educate members on the work being done worldwide on behalf of LGBTQ individuals and businesses. They also generated newsletters, introduced a New Member Orientation Program, and created a new Request for Proposal process for chamber vendors, while also updating the 45-yearold bylaws, advocating for LGBTQ businesses locally, statewide, and nationally, and supporting numerous LGBTQ nonprofits through providing access to events, expos, and donations. In addition, we added multiple new members and corporate sponsors in 2019.

GGBA Member Spotlight

Bottom Line Take some time this season to reflect on your own business’ 2019 accomplishments and lessons learned. Then, begin to identify the areas that you want to enhance or add to your business for 2020. I hope that your plans will include continued support of the GGBA, as well as committing some time to volunteering to our efforts to grow sustainable, profitable LGBTQ businesses and to build a stronger, supportive community. Cheers. Michael Gunther is a Board Member of the Golden Gate Business Association and leads Collaboration Business Consulting, which is a team of highly skilled business professionals who are dedicated to assisting proactive individuals to build scalable, profitable businesses. For more information: https://collaboration-llc.com/michael-gunther/

Island Acupuncture Business Mission + Values

Island acupuncture is a holistic, reproductive, and health-focused practice. Their mission is to provide excellent and expert care to all, while creating and holding a space where each patient feels respected, heard, and truly seen. They align their mission and values with dedication and consistency in all areas not only to provide stellar service, but also to enhance the lives and communities that they serve. Founder’s Personal Experience Inspired Business Founder Tracy Zollinger discovered Chinese medicine when she had a shoulder injury that left her barely functional and in tremendous pain. At the time, she was also on a variety of medications just to get through her days. Not only was pain limiting her mobility, but also the medical treatment provided to her was limiting her ability to conceive a child. A friend recommended acupuncture, and after her first treatment, Zollinger realized that this was the answer she had been seeking. She was hooked from her very first appointment. Through acupuncture and herbs, she was pain free, fully functional, and had newfound hope at conceiving. Giving birth was a life-changing experience that solidified her path.

When her child was 14 months old, Zollinger started acupuncture school and loved every moment. In 2008, she received her acupuncture license and in 2011 opened her private practice focused on reproductive health. In school, she learned about reproductive health and saw firsthand how well it worked for most hormonally related issues. Traditional Chinese medicine has taken her passion for reproductive health and paired it with her deep need to help people to achieve their best lives, physically and emotionally. There has yet to be a single day in 12 years where Zollinger didn’t feel love and joy for the healing she shares through acupuncture and eastern medicine practices. Tracy Zollinger

GGBA CALENDAR 2019 GGBA Holiday Make Contact December 10 6 pm–8 pm Blade Runners Hair Studio 1792 Haight Street, SF Free to Chamber Members and Partners $25 to non-members Register to attend: https://bit.ly/34hIX2s GGBA Member Roundtable January 14 5:30 pm–6 pm Members will engage in a roundtable discussion regarding the chamber’s member programming. Location TBD. For more information, email: events@ggba.com Register to attend: https://bit.ly/2KPyPWW Make Contact Mixer Hospitality Spotlight January 14 6 pm–8 pm Location TBD. For more information, email: events@ggba.com Free to Chamber Members and Partners $25 to non-members Register to attend: https://bit.ly/2XHWXA1 New Member & Ambassador Orientations February 11 5:30 pm–6 pm Location TBD. For more information, email: events@ggba.com Register to attend: https://bit.ly/2Dfjb2M Make Contact Mixer Construction Spotlight February 11 6 pm–8 pm Location TBD. For more information, email: events@ggba.com Register to attend: https://bit.ly/2qGVv4S A Proud GGBA Member “I discovered GGBA in a roundabout way,” Zollinger says. “While focusing on expanding my business into a multi-modality holistic reproductive health center, treating all populations with a specialty in our LGBTQ community, I was researching the best way to quickly convey this focus. I encountered the NGLCC’s LGBTQ business certification. That led me to GGBA, my local LGBTQ business association.” (continued on page 26)

GGBA November Make Contact Photos by Paul Margolis The November Make Contact mixer was held on Tuesday, November 12, at the Covo San Francisco co-working space located on Mission at 6th in the SOMO neighborhood. Showcased at the event were members in the Real Estate Industry, including those who specialize in residential, commercial, short-term rentals, moving services, financing, legal, escrow, mortgages, and staging. A pre-mixer segment was included for new member and ambassador orientation and for speed networking. GGBA’s annual Holiday Make Contact will be on Tuesday, December 10, 6-9pm at Blade Runners Hair Studio, 1792 Haight Street. S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

NOVEM BER 28, 2019

Reflecting Changes to the Media Landscape for change in where they are posted to use options that exist now given the changes to the media landscape. For example, we have multiple diverse and useful weekly newspapers in Oakland serving many communities—but no longer a local daily. So, our requirements of where notices are posted need to accommodate reality and reach all of our communities. Therefore, I have successfully advocated the City to place a measure on the March 2020 ballot that would allow us to utilize the various diverse media options in our communities for public noticing purposes, and to eliminate obsolete requirements for how to select the City’s official newspaper. I look forward to allowing a broader representation of our communities to participate in the process.

Out of the Closet and into City Hall Oakland City Councilmember At-Large, Rebecca Kaplan

Councilmember At-Large Rebecca Kaplan was elected in 2008 to serve as Oakland’s citywide Councilmember; she was re-elected in 2016. She also serves on the Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC). Follow Councilmember Kaplan on Twitter @Kaplan4Oakland ( https://twitter.com/Kaplan4Oakland ) and Facebook ( https://www.facebook.com/Kaplan4Oakland/ ).

The American media landscape has changed dramatically in recent years and continues to change, with significant reductions in daily newspapers. The estimated total U.S. daily newspaper circulation—print and digital combined—in 2018 was 28.6 million for weekday and 30.8 million for Sunday, down 8% and 9%, respectively, from the previous year. As a City, it is best to explore how best to include local and culturally based newspapers with a diverse readership. By having the Oakland City Council, through a public process, be able to respond to changing media conditions and ensure inclusion of our communities, our noticing systems can become more inclusive. This legislation allows the City to adapt our noticing provisions to accommodate changing circumstance and practices. I am not proposing to do away with public notices, but rather to allow

Real Estate Announce Your Real Estate in San Francisco Bay Times Publisher@sfbaytimes.com

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Transgender Day of Remembrance Photos by Rink

Suzanne Frank

The Transgender Day of Remembrance for 2019 was observed on Wednesday, November 20, with a program entitled “Not One More.” It was held at UC Hastings and was followed by a march and rally at San Francisco City Hall. Alejandra De La Vega and Anjali Rimi were emcees for the program that included an elaborate altar prepared by El/La Para Trans Latinas and a performance by the New Voices Bay Area TIGQ Chorus. After the program and march to San Francisco City Hall, Mayor London Breed and community leader and transgender activist Clair Farley were among the speakers at the podium positioned on the steps of the main entrance facing Civic Center. Additional speakers included Holy Old Man Bull, Ebony Ava Harper, Socorro Cory Moreland, and Star Amerasu.

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NOVEM BER 28, 2019

An Attitude of Gratitude reality. It evolved as a tool for anticipating and overcoming dangers, for protecting us from pain, and for solving problems; so dangers, pain, and problems are what it notices. What’s pleasant and harmonious, what isn’t painful or problematic, tends to slip into the background.

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

2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-601-2113 525 Bellevue Avenue Oakland CA 94610 E-mail: editor@sfbaytimes.com www.sfbaytimes.com The Bay Times was the first newspaper in California, and among the first in the world, to be jointly and equally produced by lesbians and gay men. We honor our history and the paper’s ability to build and strengthen unity in our community. The Bay Times is proud to be the only newspaper for the LGBT community in San Francisco that is 100% owned and operated by LGBT individuals. Dr. Betty L. Sullivan Jennifer L. Viegas Co-Publishers & Co-Editors

Beth Greene Michael Delgado Abby Zimberg Design & Production

Kate Laws

Business Manager

Blake Dillon Calendar Editor

Kit Kennedy

Poet-In-Residence

J.H. Herren

Technology Director

Carla Ramos Web Coordinator Mario Ordonez Distribution

Examined Life Tom Moon, MFT (Editor’s Note: Tom Moon is on hiatus. This is one of his more popular past columns.) The distinguished philosopher Lily Tomlin once said, “Humanity invented language out of a deep need to complain.” It’s sad that those who are Homo sapiens, the most intelligent and resourceful beings on the planet, are also, by and large, the most miserable. If I feed, pet, and walk my dog, he’s happy and fulfilled. But if you’re that easily pleased, you probably either have a room temperature I.Q. or you’re the Dalai Lama: either you’re challenged or enlightened. Why is it so much harder for us to be happy than our pets? I sometimes wonder if we’re just wired in such a way that it’s easier for us to be unhappy than happy. The thing that makes us distinct—our complex cerebrum—isn’t an organ for dispassionately understanding

CONTRIBUTORS Writers Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Patrick Carney, Kate Kendell, Alex Randolph, Heidi Beeler, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Tim Seelig, Cinder Ernst, John Chen Rafael Mandelman, Jewelle Gomez, Phil Ting, Rebecca Kaplan, Kin Folkz, Leslie Katz, Philip Ruth, Peter Gallotta, Bill Lipsky, Karen Williams, Donna Sachet, Gary Virginia, Zoe Dunning, Marcy Adelman, Stuart Gaffney & John Lewis Brandon Miller, Jamie Leno Zimron Michele Karlsberg Lyndsey Schlax, Randy Coleman, Debra Walker, Howard Steiermann, Andrea Shorter, Lou Fischer, Karin Jaffie, Brett Andrews, Karen E. Bardsley, David Landis Photographers Rink, Phyllis Costa, Jane Higgins Paul Margolis, Chloe Jackman, Bill Wilson, Jo-Lynn Otto, Sandy Morris, Abby Zimberg, Deborah Svoboda, Morgan Shidler, JP Lor ADVERTISING Display Advertising Standard Rate Cards http://sfbaytimes.com/ or 415-503-1375 Custom ad sizes are available. Ads are reviewed by the publishers. National Advertising: Contact Bay Times / San Francisco. Represented by Rivendell Media: 908-232-2021 Circulation is verified by an independent agency Reprints by permission only. CALENDAR Submit events for consideration by e-mail to: calendar@sfbaytimes.com © 2019 Bay Times Media Company Co-owned by Betty L. Sullivan & Jennifer L. Viegas

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But some of our unhappiness must also be culturally induced. When I visited India a few years ago, I was astounded at how many smiling, serene, unhurried people I met in the streets—many of whom were in what we would consider desperate conditions. When I came back home and watched my fellow affluent Americans rushing around impatiently, scowling, honking, and swearing at each other, I felt a wave of intense pity for my country. Visitors to Central America, Asia, and other places often have the same reaction. We are the wealthiest nation in human history, but almost all of us believe that we don’t have enough money. Our affluence has seduced us into the belief that our happiness lies outside of ourselves, and so we think that our poverty is financial instead of emotional and spiritual. I was interested to watch the starkly differing reactions of gay people who are single to the explosion of gay marriages in San Francisco. Some were thrilled and grateful to be alive at this time in our history. They talked about going to City Hall to cheer for their friends, volunteer to

help, take pictures, and give roses to couples. Others said that they stayed away because all of the excitement just made them feel envious and more embittered about not being in a relationship. For some, the response was celebration; for others, it was self-pity, and some felt a little of both, but there was clearly an element of personal choice in which reaction predominated. This example is a reminder that our outward circumstances are less crucial to our happiness than our attitude toward them. In this example, the important attitude is sympathetic joy, the capacity to delight in the happiness of others. Buddhists consider this quality an essential aspect of happiness, and have created meditative practices for deliberately cultivating it, by focusing on empathizing with others and mentally sending them wishes for their well-being. A similar practice well-known in twelve-step programs is to work at cultivating “an attitude of gratitude,” by making regular, even daily, lists of everything in your life for which you’re grateful. This practice counteracts the tendency of the brain to focus on problems, pains, and deficiencies by concentrating, instead, on the background abundance that is almost always there, if we’ll only look. So, for instance, a man wakes up on a cold, rainy Tuesday, sour and grumbling about having to go to his boring, dead-end job just to pay the exorbitant rent on his tiny stu-

dio apartment. But in a morning practice, he concentrates on gratitude that he does have a roof over his head and a job; that he’s going to have dinner with a loving friend that night; that he’s healthy and has many sources of pleasure in his life, etc. Afterwards, while nothing outwardly has changed, he can go to work feeling a little lighter and more cheerful. A common unconscious idea is that there’s some way to live so that eventually we won’t have problems, disappointments, and losses. We’ll get all of the parts of our lives together, and then we’ll nail the whole thing to the floor so that it doesn’t move. But it never happens, because life is constant change, and so no state of static perfection can exist. That means that no matter how we live, losses, disappointments, and difficulties are inevitable. Maybe that’s what that old wistful joke was about—that you can have a great apartment, a great job, and a great lover, but you can’t have all three at once. If happiness is to be found at all, it has to be found within an acceptance of this reality. When Lincoln said, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be,” he was pointing to a truth too-often forgotten in our outwardly-focused culture. Happiness is an inside job. Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. For more information, please visit his website http://tommoon.net/

GLBT Fortnight in Review By Ann Rostow Cuckoo! I find myself looking forward to the day after Thanksgiving when I’ll be able to cross two holidays off my mental list, with only three to go. Ironically, I actually like these holidays at this stage in my life, but after decades of grumpy seasonal affective disorder, vague anxieties, and memories of crowded travel, I can’t completely let go of this annual sulkiness. It all starts with grocery store decorations, specifically with the pumpkins and skeletons around mid-September. It’s bad enough that summer’s not half over before we get the “back to school” business thrown in our faces, but then, with the days still warm and the leaves still green and heavy, we get barraged with Halloween and by extension the onset of dark evenings, cold nights, heavy stews, and I want to scream that it’s still summer out there. Worse, it means that we stand on the brink of winter. Months of it, marked by ritual pauses. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, until finally, one horrible day in the freezing rain as we pull our grocery cart away from its mates and walk it through the automatic doors, we see a new display. With bunnies. We’ve made it! “Sumer is icumen in.” Loudly sing cuckoo and break out the Campari and soda. As I mentioned, however, I’ve grown to enjoy winter. I like the holidays. Every season has its positives and negatives and summer itself is not always an extended sojourn on the beach now, is it? Mosquitoes, sweltering heat, all that Campari. By contrast, who doesn’t love an outdoor fire on a cold crisp night? The crunch of snow on a brilliant winter day? A velvety boeuf bourguignon with a 12-year-old Nuits-Saint-Georges? Well, I haven’t had a fine bottle of Nuits-Saint-Georges in years, but it sounds good in theory. At any rate, I have my cake and can eat it too at this point. I like winter and the holidays, and yet I still retain an atavistic satisfaction as each one is over and done with. It’s schizophrenic. Like hating Christmas commercials, but going out of my way to watch those Lifetime movies about Santa’s daughter who lives in Manhattan and has an MBA but who comes back to the North Pole to help out with the “family business” when Santa gets sick. Except, he’s not really sick. It was a ploy by Mrs. Santa to reconcile the two since Santa was originally mad at his daughter for leaving home, so Mrs. Santa put something in the old man’s cocoa. But she revives him after Know-it-all Daughter with the fancy degree manages to screw up the manufacturing timetable, and after a shouting match the two of them realize that they each have something to learn from the other and, with help from the wise elf who has been foreman of the toy factory for lo these many years, they save Christmas! For Pete’s Sake Can you guess that I’m avoiding GLBT news and information this week? Can you blame me? It’s the holidays! I had planned on leading off with Mayor Pete and his sudden rise to the top of the heap. I have a thousand articles on this subject, and I have my own misgivings to analyze. In short, I worry that Pete can’t beat Trump because he’s gay. And what does that say about me? I’ve spent my career reporting on GLBT discrimination and our communal fight for civil rights! Am I now to shrug my

shoulders and dismiss a leading presidential candidate based on residual social prejudice? Oh well. Don’t even try, Pete. You can’t win? I also am not a hundred percent behind him to begin with, but I could say that about any of the candidates. In Buttigieg’s case, I think he’s too young and inexperienced. But that said, look who’s running the country as I write. Ethelred the Unready reincarnate. On the other hand, if we use Trump as a standard, virtually anyone would be better suited to the presidency. (Note: I was taught that “unready” in Ethelred’s nickname meant “unread,” as in ill-educated. I just checked and learned that it means “poorly advised,” which still works as a Trump comparison.) At any rate, after spending a lot of time reading about the primary, on top of the time I already spend reading about the primary for my own pleasure, I read myself over the top and now don’t want to discuss it further with you the readers. You might call me Ann the Ready. Still, I am torn about Pete. He’s like the elusive potential boyfriend or girlfriend who suddenly becomes available. Woah, Nelly! Not so fast! I still have feelings for Elizabeth. And I’ve always thought Kamala was cute. Bad Penguins! So, I have also seen a lengthy article on same-sex behavior in animals. Perhaps some of you also read it, the results of a serious-sounding Yale study that explored why same-sex behavior would survive the Darwinian mandate to reproduce the reproducible. The answer, posits lead author Julia Monk, is that a generalized urge that encompasses both sexes maximizes the number of potential mates, and in cases where it’s hard to tell the sex of another animal, this could be helpful. Hmm. Okay then! The study also points out that there’s very little downside to same-sex behavior, so assuming it’s always been a feature of animal behavior, there has been no reason for it to be drummed out by evolution. But, but. Why the penguins, we wonder? Actually, I’ve read that it’s hard to figure out the gender of a penguin, so maybe that fits with the scientific theory. Perhaps penguins survived by attempting to mate with all of the other penguins regardless of gender, thereby increasing the chances that they’d arrive at a male/ female pairing. Maybe this free-forall led to the evolution of gay and bi penguins with indiscriminate proclivities. Loose penguins, louche even. I’m imagining the dystopian Pottersville from It’s a Wonderful Life, except it’s Penguinville, with drunk penguins shuffling through neonlit streets, honky-tonks and penguin porn shops. I see them bellying up to the bar. No mulled wine for these birds. Neat whisky, if you please. For the record, I have another penguin story. A couple out of DierenPark Amersfoort zoo in the Netherlands stole an egg outright from heterosexual parents. That egg is due to hatch (if fertilized) any day now, and the straight penguins have already produced another egg, so they don’t seem to care. This all fits with our new theory on penguin morality, or lack thereof. Corporate Culture Before we go any further, please stop and google “lesbian Renault commercial.” Unfortunately, Renault does not sell cars in the United (continued on page 26) S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

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SPQR: Michelin Dining, Neighborhood Style

BAY TIMES S

An acronym for Senatus Populusque Romanus, SPQR translates to “The People and Senate of Rome” and was the emblem of the Roman Empire. A medallion to that effect stands outside this unpretentious yet esteemed Pacific Heights eatery.

A typical SPQR brunch is anything but typical. The Gay Gourmet loves to sit at the marble counter, because part of the fun of dining at SPQR is the imaginative, one-of-a-kind wine program. Wine selections change

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area

Available: https://www.spqrsf.com

almost weekly, generally sourced from smaller and lesser-known producers. The servers gladly pour a taste so that diners can get to know the all-Italian wine list. Every brunch begins with Chef Matthew’s homemade biscuits and jam that changes seasonally. Some of my personal brunch menu favorites are the creamy chicken liver mousse, with a modern twist of fruit marmellata and balsamic gelatin. The homemade, rustic bucanti straw and

hay pasta also is a winner and adds a tangy combination of blue cheese, kale, walnut, and sage butter. At a recent Cirelli winemaker dinner, our evening started with Accarrino’s own caviar, coupled with potato frittelle, egg yolk, and crema fresca (paired with a refreshing sparkling rose from Montepulciano). The next course took full advantage of the season: a re-invented little gem lettuce salad highlighted by bacon-wrapped dates, fuyu persimmons and a mulled wine vinaigrette (paired with a Trebbiano Anfora from Abruzzo). PHOTO COURTESY OF SPQR

Parsnip casonsei with smoked mushrooms and Sartori espresso cheese

Chef Matthew Accarrino

PHOTO BY MATTHEW ACCARRINO

Now at the helm for more than 10 years, Chef Matthew Accarrino doesn’t rest on his laurels. “Food

PHOTO BY CONNOR ROBERTSON

Chef Accarrino is well-known for making his own caviar, foraging for his own ingredients, and creating his own modern take on desserts. “I’m motivated by passion, but I want to be focused,” Accarrino says. “Nowadays, there’s an urgency and expectation for successful chefs to quickly open many restaurants. I resisted that. With time, wisdom is derived through practice.”

Innovative. Inventive. Italian. But most of all, delicious. Those are just a few words to describe the elevated dining experience at Fillmore Street’s neighborhood, Michelin-starred gem SPQR.

SQPR Interior

PHOTO BY CONNOR ROBERTSON

David Landis

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

should be comforting,” says the youthful, award-winning chef, “but we’re very grounded in flavors and technique. My approach has 3 elements. The first is ingredients: shopping and cooking need to be well-sourced. The second starts with what I call a ‘flavor memory.’ For instance, the genesis for our broccoli dish was cream of mushroom soup. The ingredients include broccoli pesto, marinated hen of the woods mushrooms, and gouda cheese, but I asked myself, ‘How do I pack that flavor into a custard?’ The third element is innovation: how do I compose these ingredients to make something new?”

The Gay Gourmet

SPQR kitchen

fectly-cooked to medium rare and served with a chestnut and delicata squash gratinate in a red wine sauce. The Montepulciano Anfora from Abruzzo expertly complemented the tastes and textures of the tender meat.

A slice of heaven followed: mushroom cannelloni as light as air, paired with a delicious Montepulciano wine from Abruzzo; and the final course was one of the best beef ribeyes offered at any San Francisco restaurant: per-

Desserts, created by Chef Accarrino, currently range from a PSB spiced biscuit donut with pumpkin bavarese, cranberry, and egg nog gelato to a carmel budino with pecan, toasted meringue, and graham cracker gelato.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPQR

Duck and smoked sweet potato pasta “rotolo,” with collard greens and duck prosciutto

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPQR

Duck confitura, parsnip, pink pearl apple, Brussels sprouts and cherry agrodulce

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPQR

Intimate and inviting, the compact restaurant features table seating, bar seating, and a chef’s counter, where diners can watch Chef Matthew in action, making the most of the tiny 200-square-foot kitchen.

Corn polenta, rabbit ballotine, fig and habanada pepper

Customers can take SPQR home with them since Chef Matthew teamed up with former owner Shelley Lindgren to write one of the most (continued on page 26)

Final Greens’ Anniversary Series Dinner, Permanent Collection Pop-Up

The final dinner in the series will take place on December 11 and will feature Pam Mazzola of Prospect. Mazzola is known for dishes driven by top-quality seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors. Whether treating visiting guests to an historic, special occasion meal, or just treating yourself, the night is sure to be memorable. Don’t miss the wine pairings, and the non-alcoholic pairings, too. We love that Greens offers both, allowing even teetotalers to indulge.

Also be sure to admire the large redwood sculpture inside Greens. It was created by mid-century artist JB Blunk (1926–2002), who additionally created The Planet piece highlighted at the Oakland Museum. Greens sometimes even allows diners to eat on the sculpture, which was carved to include tables and seating areas. Blunk’s daughter Mariah Nielson and Waters’ daughter Fanny Singer run Permanent Collection, a line of clothing, accessories, and objects based on historical and contemporary originals. They recently opened a popup at Marin Country Mart in Larkspur, and are featuring in-store events with their favorite brands and designers. We miss the Celebration of Craftswomen that used to happen annually during the holiday season at Fort Mason. “Betty’s List” and the San Francisco Bay Times had a booth there for many years. Permanent Collection also supports independent craftspeople offering unique items made with skill and passion. The items, as a result, do not come with box store prices, but as the line’s name suggests, they hold lasting quality and appeal. For more information: https://bit.ly/33cP8nb

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Greens Restaurant this year has been celebrating 40 years of delicious and healthy vegetarian cuisine in their beautiful location with incredible views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more. Their Anniversary Dinner Series has highlighted renowned local women chefs: Reem Assil (Reem’s California), Alice Waters (Chez Panisse), Suzette Gresham (Acquerello), Kim Alter (Nightbird), and Tanya Holland (Brown Sugar Kitchen). Each evening provided a rare opportunity not only to enjoy vegetarian meals from these culinary superstars, but also to speak with them at length in Greens’ cozy, casual setting.

Donna’s Chronicles

By Donna Sachet

oirée on the Bay II, benefiting Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation, once again swept several hundred guests into a night of glamorous cruise ship living! We arrived at the spacious Pier 27 building recently opened to greet the many large cruise liners that visit our City, welcoming them in modern comfort. As you approach the pier, you are overwhelmed by the size and scale of the ship, in this case the Celebrity Eclipse, over 1000 feet long, holding 2850 passengers plus crew, and with 12 guest decks packed with restaurants, shopping, spa, pool, waterfalls, and more! We were welcomed into the Solarium by LaTonya Lawson, Regional Marketing Leader at Celebrity Cruises, and Joe Seiler & Ken Henderson of REAF, as mermaids and mermen swam in the adjacent pool and floated inside oversized transparent beach balls. Ship tours were available also during this cocktail hour. Among those on board were Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, Gary Virginia, Ken Hamai, Beth Schnitzer, Ludmila Kisseleva, Shelley Hann, John Newmeyer, Andrew Hirst, Casy Kretzer, Lawrence Wong, Charles Sanderson & Kelley Wagg, Adam Sandel, Mark Pressler, Matt Buchanan, Greg Wick, and John Hunter. At 7 pm, everyone ascended to the Sky Lounge where refreshments continued and intermittent entertainment delighted the crowd. Emcees Dan Ashley and Dion Lim guided us through a brief program, including an award to Okan Sengun of The LGBT Asylum Project that has been doing amazing work for the past few years under his leadership. Besides the high-energy performers from Celebrity Cruises, special guest Franc D’Ambrosio sang a moving medley of songs from the long-running Broadway show The Phantom of the Opera in which he starred for years. Party organizers began to despair of a certain high-profile guest’s absence when, sure enough, Mayor London Breed arrived, having just left dinner with Governor Gavin Newsom. (We were personally given permission to include that detail in this column.) The response was wonderful, especially when she presented not only REAF with City recognition, but also LaTonya and Celebrity Cruises. Needless to say, photographs flashed well into the night! As amazing as being on the Celebrity Eclipse was, gazing back on the City we love was breathtaking! Rarely are you so close to the skyline and at such an elevation so that you feel surrounded by the Bay Bridge, sparkling buildings, sloping hills, and Coit Tower crowning Telegraph Hill. That clear night provided the perfect opportunity to remind ourselves of the magical place in which we live! The conclusion of a week-long celebration of the birthday of Absolute Empress XXV Marlena came last Saturday at Twin Peaks, long a favorite bar of Empress I José Sarria and the entire Imperial Family. Friends appeared from all over the Bay Area and beyond to wish her well. We joined Emperor Brian Benamati on the balcony above the crowd to lead the birthday song and Marlena thanked the assembled with brief, heartfelt remarks. A classy birthday for a magnificent person! As we turn the corner into another Thanksgiving, we know the festive holiday season is upon us, so let’s look at some of the upcoming events you simply must attend! Join us on Sunday, December 1, for the first of three holiday shows at Sunday’s a Drag at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel. This show only happens December 1, 15, and 22 this year, so treat yourself to a sumptuous brunch buffet starting at 10:30 am and celebrate with Mahlae Balenciaga, Lady Tia, this humble columnist, and our weekly guest stars at 11:30 am. The following evening, we light the Castro holiday tree at 6 pm right in front of Bank of America with members of the SF Gay Men’s Chorus, the Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band, and the Lesbian/Gay Chorus. This is a community favorite event, full of revelry, music, an occasional elected official, and Santa Claus himself. Rise and shine early the following day for the SF AIDS Foundation’s ACTivate Breakfast at 8 am at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. The event is free, but contributions and pledges to support the important work of this organization will be welcome. Come see what SF AIDS Foundation is all about and get involved. Drag Queens on Ice is now in its tenth year bringing fabulous ice-skating drag queens to Union Square! On Thursday, December 5, you’ll thrill to the talents of Kylie Pop, Mahlae Balenciaga, Kylie Minono, Paju Munro, Khmera Rouge, Dusty Porn, and Mutha Chucka with yours truly, as always, not on the ice, but on the mic, joined this year by the Foodie Chap Liam Mayclem. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence will be there to add to the mayhem. On Friday, December 6, 6 pm, we hope to see you at Home for the Holidays, a benefit cabaret for Tenderloin Tessie Dinners at First Unitarian Universalist Center, 1187 Franklin Street. Vanessa Bousay and Michael Gagne host and the list of entertainers is broad and exciting. The SF Gay Men’s Chorus presents Holigays Are Here: Ring Them Bells, Friday, December 6, 7:30 pm, and Saturday, December 7, 3 pm & 7:30 pm, at the Sydney Goldstein Theater, 275 Hayes Street. No holiday is complete without seeing and hearing this legendary chorus, all 300 of them, as they pay homage to traditional religious music and poke fun at the whole season with their wry humor and choralography. If you can’t make either of these dates, they also appear in three concerts 5, 7, and 9 pm, Christmas Eve at the Castro Theatre. Take the whole family, whatever that means to you; you’ll be glad you did. Toys for Tots has gathered thousands of toys over the past 15 years for children who might otherwise go without. This year, the stellar host committee invites you to bring three or more new, unwrapped toys to the Fairmont Hotel on Sunday, December 8, from 4–7 pm and join a heartwarming holiday party with likeminded people. This is a party where you definitely want to dress up; you’ll be glad you did. The very next night, Richmond/Ermet PHOTO BY SHAWN NORTHCUTT

“The lovely thing about Christmas is that it’s compulsory, like a thunderstorm, and we all go through it together.” –Garrison Keillor

Calendar a/la Sachet Every Sunday Sunday’s a Drag! The Starlight Room Sir Francis Drake Hotel 10:30 am Brunch, 11:30 am Show $75 inclusive https://starlightroomsf.com/sundays-a-drag Monday, December 2 Castro Holiday Tree Lighting Music & community Bank of America, Castro 6 pm Free! Tuesday, December 3 ACTivate Breakfast SF AIDS Foundation Yerba Buena Center for the Arts 8 am Free! www.sfaf.org Thursday, December 5 Drag Queens on Ice, 10th year Safeway Ice Rink in Union Square 8 pm Free! Friday, December 6 Home for the Holidays Cabaret benefits Tenderloin Tessie Dinners First Unitarian Universalist Center, 1187 Franklin Street 6 pm $25 & up https://bit.ly/2QRbl7y Friday, December 6 & Saturday, December 7 Holigays Are Here: Ring Them Bells Music and laughter with SF Gay Men’s Chorus Sydney Goldstein Theater, 275 Hayes Street 3 pm & 7:30 pm $25 & up www.sfgmc.org Sunday, December 8 Toys for Tots Donate toys & mingle Fairmont Hotel, 950 Mason Street 4–8 pm Bring a toy! Free, but limited space, so RSVP https://bit.ly/2XJWMEp Monday, December 9 Help is on the Way for the Holidays XVIII REAF benefit for Project Open Hand and AGUILAS Marines’ Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter 7:30 pm $45 & up www.reaf.org Tuesday & Wednesday, December 10–11 Brian Kent presents Donna Sachet’s Songs of the Season Holiday cabaret benefiting PRC Feinstein’s at Nikko, 222 Mason Street 8 pm $60 & up www.prcsf.org

Aid Foundation presents Help is on the Way for the Holidays XXVIII at Marines’ Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter Street at 7:30 pm. We can’t say enough about this show! The stars include Sheryl Lee Ralph, Lisa Vroman, David Hernandez, Darnell Abraham, Shawn Ryan, Sony Holland, Steve Knill, Jessica Coker, Lisa Viggiano, and members of the cast from the touring company of the Broadway musical Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.

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Soirée On The Bay II

Photos by JP Lor, Paul Margolis and Bill Wilson Captain Michael Sympouras and crew of the Celebrity Eclipse welcomed guests, honorees, and entertainers for the Soirée on the Bay II benefit held aboard ship on Wednesday, November 13, at the Port of San Francisco’s Pier 27. Mayor London Breed joined emcees Dan Ashley and Dion Lim of ABC7 News at the microphone to honor The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation (REAF) for its twenty-five years of supporting service-providing organizations in the Bay Area, such as Project Open Hand and AGUILAS. The Mayor, accompanied by Clair Farley and Leonard Alfaro of her team, also honored Celebrity Cruises’ LaTonya Lawson for her initiative and influence in bringing support from Celebrity to the LGBT community. On behalf of REAF and representing the San Francisco Bay Times, Donna Sachet honored Okan Sengun, Executive Director and Co-founder of The LGBT Asylum Project. Special guest Franc D’Ambrosio (The Phantom of the Opera, Godfather III, and more) performed.

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PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS PHOTO BY JP LOR

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

PHOTO BY JP LOR

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

https://www.reaf-sf.org/

PHOTO BY JP LOR

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY JP LOR

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

PHOTO BY JP LOR

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY JP LOR

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PHOTO BY JP LOR

PHOTO BY BILL WILSON

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

NOVEM BER 28, 2019

Couples Who Play Sports Together Stay Together: Love Tackles

Sports John Chen Once upon a time, a young woman named Isabel Ongpin in San Diego wanted a nice woman for herself. “I wanted a tough woman, but with a soft feminine side,” she tells me for the San Francisco Bay Times. “I wanted her to be tall, but not too tall.” “Then I saw her (Erin Hollingsworth’s) photo on Plenty of Fish, a dating site,” she adds. “I took a chance and messaged her. Our first date was at a sushi bar and I remembered my hands were shaking because I was so nervous. I felt sick to my stomach and couldn’t eat the tempura I ordered and Erin finished it for me. That was nice.” After that first date, Ongpin felt little interest and chemistry from Hollingsworth since all of her responses were closed-ended, fewword answers. Ongpin had all but given up when Hollingsworth out of the blue messaged her right before Thanksgiving. “We went to BJ’s and shared a magical Pizookie (dessert). Suddenly we had chemistry. That night, after we said our goodbyes, I gave her an awkward hug. Went back to my little Nissan Versa and slammed my hands onto the steering, wheel ‘Why didn’t I kiss her?!’” Once upon a time a young marine named Erin Hollingsworth was transferred to San Diego and wanted to meet other women in her new city. She joined Match.com ( https://

www.match.com/ ). “Shortly after signing up, Match.com told me it was time to connect with my ‘matches’ and Isabel was a 100% match. I thought she was really cute from her photos and she had a well-constructed intro, so why not? But I never heard back from her.” “Months later, I received a message from Isabel on Plenty of Fish and I was like, hey this is the girl I liked who never responded on Match.com. We ended up going to a Japanese restaurant on our first date where I nervously ate everything including Isabel’s dinner. But we didn’t have much chemistry. There was gnarly a spark.” Hollingsworth continues, “Right before Thanksgiving we went on a second date to BJ’s, a restaurant and an acronym [unbeknownst] to me. This time around we started having chemistry and we flirted. At the end of the date, I was thinking, ‘Is she gonna kiss me? I am OK with that.’ But we ended up giving one another a cheek to cheek awkward hug even though I wanted a kiss.” Hollingsworth grew up in a small town in Iowa. She loved sports and played backyard football with the neighborhood boys. “I love football,” she says, “but couldn’t play on my high school team so I joined the cheerleading squad, not to get close to the football players, but to get close to the game. I had the best seat in the house!” Unlike Hollingsworth, Ongpin while growing up didn’t play sports and didn’t know much about them, either. But Ongpin wanted to learn football so that she could watch pro football with, and play alongside, Hollingsworth. Ongpin was and still is a true student of the

Take Me Home with You!

game, carefully analyzing plays, routes, and defensive schemes with Hollingsworth on football Sundays. “My position is the running back,” explains Ongpin, “so I take extra note learning techniques and how the pros make cuts, see the field, and run behind tackles.” After moving from San Diego to San Francisco two and a half years ago, Ongpin and Hollingsworth have been playing football together (continued on page 30)

Fitness SF Trainer Tip of the Month

Tony & Taylor- Fitness SF SoMa

Bill Nye

“There are so many benefits to incorporating lunges into your workouts. These exercises improve your balance, challenge your core muscles, and they are great for building your glutes! Begin doing lunges with just your body weight. Then, once you are comfortable with stability, add in the free weights.”

“My name is Bill Nye! I got my name because I love to learn. I’ve been training and know several tricks, including sit, high five, and touch! I can even spin clockwise or counterclockwise on command, and jump through your arms if you make a hoop. My ideal home would be with someone special who can keep me busy and mentally stimulated—lots of playtime is key! I’m very friendly and love meeting new people, so please come say hello.” Bill Nye is presented to San Francisco Bay Times readers by Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, the SF SPCA’s Co-President. Our thanks also go to Krista Maloney for helping to get the word out about lovable pets like Bill Nye. To meet Bill Nye, as well as other pets seeking their forever homes, please visit: San Francisco SPCA Mission Campus 250 Florida Street San Francisco, CA 94103 415-522-3500 Aside from major holidays, Dr. Jennifer Scarlett and Pup the Mission Campus adoption center is open Mon– Fri: 1–6 pm and Sat–Sun: 10 am–5 pm. Free parking is available for those wishing to adopt! For more information: https://www.sfspca.org/adoptions 18

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Tore Kelly, Director of Creative & Social Media for Fitness SF, provides monthly tips that he has learned from professional trainers. For more information: https://fitnesssf.com/

Esther Eng: Pioneering Filmmaker and Feminist Photos Courtesy of Dr. Bill Lipsky

(below) Poster for A Night of Romance, A Lifetime of Regret (1938), Hong Kong

Faces from Our LGBT Past Dr. Bill Lipsky

Wu Peng and Esther Eng, co-directors of Murder in New York Chinatown

Even before the lights dimmed for the 1936 world premiere of Sum Hun, known also as Heartaches, the audience was ready for a unique experience: watching the first motion picture made in Hollywood with only Chinese actors portraying Chinese characters, produced and directed by Chinese filmmakers. Equally extraordinary, one of its producers was a woman, Esther Eng, who would make film history again and again for the next dozen years as the only female producing and directing Chinese-language films anywhere.

Released in 1937, it told the story of a female pilot, played by Wai, fighting as an equal beside her male comrades for her country. Hugely successful, it received a “Certificate of Merit” from the Kwangtung Federation of Women’s Rights. Eng directed four more films in two years, again making history with It’s a Women’s World, the first film made in Hong Kong with an all-female cast. A “broad critique of contemporary society” in the city, especially its treatment of women, it was another success.

Born Ng Kam-ha in San Francisco on September 24, 1914, Eng grew up in the heart of the city’s Chinatown. As a teenager she worked at the Mandarin Theatre on Grant Avenue, where she saw traditional Chinese opera performed by companies brought over from Canton,

Even as a celebrated public figure, Eng never made a secret of her love of women. Journalists who reported about her private life often referred to those she was intimate with as “bosom friends” or “good sisters,” but in 1938 a writer for Hong Kong’s Sing Tao Daily News openly admired her as “living proof of the possibility of same-sex love.” The revelations did not hurt her in Hong Kong as they would have in Hollywood. Because of the growing war in Asia, Eng returned to the United States in late 1939. The next year she began work on Golden Gate Girl, the first feature-length Chinese film made in San Francisco. It premiered in May 1941 at Chinatown’s Grandview Theatre. Film Daily thought it “surprisingly good,” despite having a budget that “would about cover a Hollywood test.” Now lost, it also made history as the first screen appearance of future international star Bruce Lee—as a baby girl.

Ester Eng

Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Many of the leading actors became dear friends, including Wai Kim-fong, “the Chinese Sarah Bernhardt,” who would star in three of Eng’s films. Now considered lost, Sum Hun launched Eng’s career as a writer, producer, director, and distributor of Chinese language motion pictures. After the film’s American debut, she and “her dear friend” Wai journeyed to Hong Kong for the production’s international premiere. She made film history a second time when Hong Kong’s largest motion picture studio hired her to direct National Heroine. Its themes of patriotism, equality between women and men, and “self-sacrifice as the ultimate proof of personal love” would recur often in her work.

San Francisco’s Mandarin Theatre

Eng directed only three more films during the 1940s, all starring her “great and good friend” Sui Fei Fei: Blue Jade (1947); Back Street (1948); and Mad Fire, Mad Love (1949), which she also wrote, the first Chineselanguage color feature made in Hawaii. After more than a decade of writing, producing, directing, and distributing motion pictures, she retired from the business. She moved to New York, where she opened the Chinese restaurant Bo Bo in 1950 with Sui and four other partners. The extremely influential and socially out New York Times food editor and restaurant critic gave it three stars in the 1966 edition of his Guide to Dining Out in New York. The only problem with the restaurant, he wrote, was that “at times it is next to impossible to obtain a table,” although he admitted that “the fare is worth waiting for.”

After more than a decade, Eng returned to filmmaking one last time in 1961 for Murder in New York Chinatown, which she co-directed with Wu Peng. She opened two more restaurants, Esther Eng on Pell Street and Eng’s Corner on Mott Street. She died on January 25, 1970, only 55 years old, successful in two professions not always welcoming to women and during an era when society was not especially accepting of same-sex intimacy. Eng’s list of accomplishments in motion pictures was extraordinary. She was: • the first Chinese-American woman to produce a motion picture in Hollywood; • the first woman to direct a film in Hong Kong; • and the first woman to film in color. Working only for independent film studios, Eng lacked the resources to make “a major motion picture,” but she also was free of the restrictions Hollywood imposed, able to be her authentic self at work and in her personal life. During the years after Dorothy Arzner, then America’s foremost woman director, retired in 1943 and Ida Lupino received her first screen credit for directing in 1949, Eng was the only woman making commercial films in the United States. Unlike them, she was entirely self-taught; she had never worked in a movie studio before co-producing Heartaches and had received no formal training before she directed National Heroine. Even more impressive, she was only 22 when her first film premiered. Arzner had been 30. Lupino would be 31. Sadly, Eng’s films are now considered lost. Someday, however, a persistent archivist or a curious janitor will open a disused cabinet or a dusty storage box in an abandoned garage or a gloomy basement and come across unremembered reels of film that will return one or more of Eng’s films to us and to their place in motion picture history. The lights will dim and we will again witness the history she made. Bill Lipsky, Ph.D., author of “Gay and Lesbian San Francisco” (2006), is a member of the Rainbow Honor Walk board of directors.

Bruce Lee’s first screen appearance in Golden Gate Girl (1941) S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

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BAY TIMES S

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

From the Coming Up Events Calendar See page 28

Tuesday, December 10 - World Tree of Hope Tree Lighting @ Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street. This year’s event will include emcee Honey Mahogany with Breanna Sinclaire, Connie Champagne and more. 6:30-8:30pm. http:/www.rainbowworldfund.org

Broadway SF’s Summer: The Donna Summer Musical Has Mega-Watt Dream List of Musical Hits By Mark Notlaw

Photos by Matthew Murphy for Murphymade

“Toot toot, hey, beep beep!” Say those words, and you’ll immediately feel the beat, the spirit, the heat of the legendary Donna Summer. Her songs smashed every record. Her story shattered every barrier. Now, the queen arrives direct from Broadway to the Golden Gate Theatre for four weeks of performances December 3–29. She was a girl from Boston with a voice from heaven, who shot through the stars from gospel choir to dance floor diva. But what the world didn’t know was how Donna Summer risked it all to break through every barrier, becoming the icon of an era and the inspiration for every music diva who followed. From Janet Jackson to Beyoncé, they all began with Donna. Three actresses—Dan’Yelle Williamson, Alex Hairston, and Olivia Elease Hardy—play the role of musical icon Donna Summer at different points in her life as “Diva Donna,” “Disco Donna,” and “Duckling Donna,” while an inexhaustible ensemble of almost entirely women tear up the stage. Featuring choreography from Tony Award winner Sergio Trujillo (Ain’t Too Proud), who won a Chita Rivera Award for Outstanding Choreography in a Broadway Show for Summer, and directed by Des McAnuff, the Tony Awardwinning director of Jersey Boys and The Who’s Tommy, Summer takes us through her tumultuous life and tempestuous loves. Including a mega-watt dream list of musical hits—“Bad Girls,” “MacArthur Park,” “She Works Hard for the Money,” “Love, To Love You Baby,” “I Feel Love,” “Last Dance,” and more—Summer makes Winter the hottest season of all. Now is the time to brush up on your Summer trivia:

Alex Hairston (Disco Donna) and the Company of SUMMER

her career, she won six AMAs out of 12 nominations. The Walk of Fame

• “She Works Hard for the Money” was the first video by a black woman to be played in heavy rotation on MTV. • In 1980, the Grammys gave awards in Rock categories for the first time. “Hot Stuff” won Summer the award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance, making her the first woman to win a Grammy in the Rock field. • At the start of Summer’s career, her singles were never quite as popular in Germany, where she lived, as they were in other European countries. She used to joke that she could board a train in Munich as a regular person, but by the time she got to Holland, she was a star. • In 1998, almost 20 years after winning the first Grammy for Female Rock Vocal Performance, Summer also won the first Grammy for Best Dance Recording. The winning song, “Carry On,” is another collaboration with her famed producer Giorgio Moroder.

In 1992, Donna was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Summer passed away on May 17, 2012, and in 2013, she was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, on her fifth nomination. Her induction ceremony featured appearances by Kelly Rowland, Jennifer Hudson, and Summer’s family: Bruce, Mimi, Brooklyn, and Amanda. The Library of Congress In 2012, the Library of Congress added “I Feel Love” to the National Recording Registry, signaling its position as an historically important work of art.

Alex Hairston (Disco Donna) and the Company of SUMMER

The Grammys

From Diva to Diva

She didn’t display them in her home, but Summer still received plenty of industry awards. She was nominated for 18 Grammy Awards and won five. Impressively, these Grammys were awarded in four different genres: Rock, Dance, R&B, and Inspirational.

Upon her death, a vast number of artists paid tribute to Summer, including Aretha Franklin, Dolly Parton, and Barbra Streisand. Beyoncé has spoken publicly about how much her own music has been inspired by Summer’s example, while musicians like Madonna, Rihanna, and Janet Jackson still carry on her legacy of creating unapologetically powerful music by and about women.

The American Music Awards

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical December 3–29 Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor Street (at Market) Tickets at https://bit.ly/2OIXldo

Summer won three AMAs in 1980, for Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist, Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist, and Favorite Pop/ Rock Single for “Bad Girls.” In

Katherine Roarty, Brooke Lacy, Tamrin Goldberg, First National Tour of SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical

KIT’N KITTY’S

QUEER POP QUIZ

Mark Notlaw is a Bay Area-based theatre buff, critic, and journalist.

LADIES, LADIES Blues legend Billie Holiday had documented same-sex affairs, including one with this famous actress: A) Claudette Colbert B) Joan Crawford C) Greta Garbo D) Tallulah Bankhead ANSWER ON PAGE 26

Alex Hairston (Disco Donna)

Karin Jaffie, aka Kit/Kitty Tapata, won the title of Mr. Gay San Francisco in 2011 and has earned many other honors since. Connect with Jaffie via Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ktapata

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Happy Holidays from Castro Merchants! By Masood Samereie

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Businesses in the Castro/Upper Market neighborhood are ready for another bright, busy, and exciting holiday season—with great shopping, drinking, and dining opportunities. To get us all in the holiday spirit, Castro Merchants is putting up lots of holiday decorations. They include a brand new brightly decorated and lit Holiday Tree at Castro and 18th Streets; silver and red bows on the Upper Market Street Median Palm Trees from Valencia to Castro Streets; and a cheery Holiday Banner hanging at Castro and 18th Streets that acknowledges the many generous donors that make our holiday celebrations possible.

PHOTO BY RINK

Santa and his Elf (tunefully assisted by members of our fantastic community music groups) will help us light the Holiday Tree on the Monday after Thanksgiving, December 2 at 6 pm. Then, the Tree will glow nightly in front of Bank of America at Castro and 18th Streets until after New Year’s Day.

The Castro offers gift ideas and shopping for everyone, with selections from fashion to funky, with fun and practical in between. See, touch, compare, and discuss with friendly, knowledgeable staff live and in person before you buy those special gifts, not in the dark on a flat Internet screen! And, take it home then, to start wrapping when you’re ready, not after it finally (maybe) arrives on a truck.

watering holes. They include many traditional favorites, as well as several new bars and restaurants that have opened since last year. No need to fight the traffic and hordes in crowded shopping districts and at borrrring malls—we’ve got it all right here for you in the Castro! We hope that you’ll join us this holiday season—come out and play in the Castro! http://www.castromerchants.com Masood Samereie is President of Castro Merchants.

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

PHOTO BY RINK

And, don’t forget to enjoy some warm holiday get-togethers with friends and loved ones at the Castro’s great selection of restaurants and

PHOTO BY BETTY L. SULLIVAN

Later in December, we’ll also cohost with Sha’ar Zahav (our local Congregation that welcomes all) the fifth annual Castro Hanukkah Menorah Lighting on Wednesday, December 18, starting at 6 pm at Jane Warner Plaza (Castro at 17th and Market Streets). All are welcome, and bring your own Menorah from home to light along with the giant one we’ll have. There’ll also be music, Intentions, dancing, spinning the giant Dreidel, and special treats.

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HOLIDAY

BAY TIMES S

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

arts preview Drag Queens on Ice

Part I

Holigays Are Here - SFGMC

Dan Pfeiffer

Ghostbusters with SF Symphony

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Smuin Ballet’s The Christmas Ballet Friday, November 29 & multiple dates/venues through December 29 Mountain View, San Francisco, and Carmel http://www.smuinballet.org

Dan Pfeiffer Thursday, December 5 Cal Performances 101 Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley http://www.calperformances.org

Smuin’s talented dancers bring to life evocative choreography in a program combining styles of multiple genres—from ballet, to tap, jazz, and swing—with elegant visuals and unexpected costumes and staging.

The former White House communications director and noted political strategist Pfeiffer is credited with harnessing the power of social media during the Obama presidential campaign and subsequent administration. He is the author of The New York Times #1 best-seller Yes We (Still) Can: Politics in the Age of Obama, Twitter and Trump—a colorful account of how politics, the media, and the internet have changed alongside the evolution of social media.

The Velveteen Rabbit Friday, November 29, through December 8 Yerba Buena Center for the Arts 701 Mission Street, San Francisco https://ybca.org/event/odc-the-velveteen-rabbit/ ODC/Dance enlivens Margery Williams’ classic tale of a well-worn nursery rabbit that becomes real. Ghostbusters: Film with the SF Symphony Friday, November 29 Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall 201 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco http://www.sfsymphony.org

10th Annual Drag Queens on Ice Thursday, December 5 Union Square Ice Rink 333 Post Street, Union Square, San Francisco www.unionsquareicerink.com Join emcee Donna Sachet and the drag queens on the ice for a set of festive performances as only they can present.

The Symphony’s Film Series presents Ghostbusters featuring the unforgettable theme song that topped the Billboard Top 100. Peter Bernstein will conduct as the Symphony joins the fun with the eccentric band of paranormal investigators as they battle with the supernatural in New York City.

Andrea Bocelli with the San Francisco Symphony and Chorus December 5 Chase Center 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco http://www.sfsymphony.org

The Caribbean Allstars + DJ Sep (Dub Mission) November 30 Ashkenaz 1317 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley http://www.ashkenaz.com

In his first-ever appearance in San Francisco, Andrea Bocelli launches his new tour in a performance with the SF Symphony and Chorus at the new Chase Center. Bocelli is a legendary Italian singer widely regarded as one of the most popular classical voices in the world today.

With geographical roots from Jamaica, South America, West Africa, and the U.S., the Allstars are pioneers in the Bay Area reggae scene. The Caribbean Allstars not only play Jamaican reggae with a traditional electric bass-drums-guitars-keyboards lineup, but they also add steel drums to bring in South Caribbean calypso and soca styles of Trinidad and Tobago, producing rhythms that drive listeners to the dance floor. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Friday, November 30, through December 24 A.C.T.’s Geary Theater 405 Geary Street, San Francisco http://www.act-sf.org Dickens’ classic tale of a surly miser who finally sees the light, thanks to guidance from several ghosts, returns to A.C.T. for the holiday season. Golden Girls Live: The Christmas Episodes Friday, November 30, through December 21 Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th Street, San Francisco http://www.victoriatheatre.org Now an annual tradition, this drag send-up and loving tribute brings together local stars Heklina (Dorothy), Matthew Martin (Blanche), D’Arcy Drollinger (Rose), and Holotta Tymes (Sophia).

Gallery of Illustrious Queers: Portraits by Jordan Reznick Thursday, December 5, through January 16 Hormel LGBTQIA Center SF Main Library, 100 Larkin Street, San Francisco http://www.sfpl.org Photographer Jordan Reznick and curator Margaret Tedesco’s exhibit explores how trans people’s embodiments and life experiences build movement for transgender pride and liberation. Holigays Are Here - Ring Them Bells Friday, December 6 & Saturday, December 7 San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus Sydney Goldstein Theater 275 Hayes Street, San Francisco http://www.sfgmc.org With artistic director/conductor Dr. Tim Seelig, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus has reached new levels of performance excellence, choreography, costuming, and staging. Laughter, tears and cheers—it’s all there in an unforgettable program featuring 300 men’s voices. (continued on page 25)

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Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir

Handel’s Messiah

DanceAlong Nutcracker Christmas Revels

Dance-Along Nutcracker 2019 Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8 San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band Yerba Buena Center for heArts 701 Mission Street, San Francisco http://www.dancealongnutcracker All aboard the Sugar Plum Falcon with this year’s “Nutcracker in Space” theme for San Francisco’s unique Dance-It-Yourself holiday musical. Adventurers Clara and Fritz will take participants on a fabulous out-of-this world adventure. The program includes a blend of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker with contemporary music. You have to see this to believe it. Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir 34th Annual Holiday Concert Saturday, December 7 The Paramount Theatre 2025 Broadway, Oakland. http://www.paramounttheatre.com To anyone who has not seen this choir perform, go! And if you have already seen them, such as in the San Francisco Bay Times Pride Parade contingent or the film Gay Chorus Deep South, then we are preaching to the chorus. Conductor Terrance Kelly and his incredible singers will bring the house down. This holiday concert has become an Oakland tradition. REAF’s Help Is on the Way for the Holidays XVIII Monday, December 9 Marines Memorial Theatre & VIP After Party at Sir Francis Drake Hotel http://www.reaf.org The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation will present its annual holiday gala and concert, now approaching it third successful decade. Benefiting Project Open Hand and AGUILAS, the program will feature cast members from Summer: The Donna Summer Musical and Hamilton plus a lineup of other stars. Handel’s Messiah Wednesday, December 11 Grace Cathedral 1100 California Street, San Francisco http://www.gracecathedral.org Jeffrey Thomas will conduct the American Bach Soloists period-instrument orchestra, the American Bach Choir, and a quartet of soloists at San Francisco’s landmark Grace Cathedral with its Gothic Revival and French Gothic architecture. Oakland Gay Men’s Chorus: We Are Lights Friday, December 13, & multiple dates/venues through December 15 Montclair Presbyterian Church 5701 Thornhill Drive, Oakland https://www.oaklandgmc.org/ Dr. Ben Riggs, Artistic Director of the Oakland Gay Men’s Chorus, will lead the more than 50-voice chorus. Christmas Revels Presents A Solstice Journey Through Time Friday, December 13, through December 24 First Congregational Church 2501 Harrison Street, San Francisco http://www.califormiarevels.org The annual Revels tradition continues at a new venue with a focus on solstice celebrations throughout the ages. Additional dates through December 24.

Look for Part II of our Holiday Arts Preview in our next issue. S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

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AIDS QUILT (continued from page 5)

GGBA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT (continued from page 9)

makers that add context about the lives memorialized on The Quilt panels.

“I am now an LGBTQ certified business and proud member of the GGBA,” she adds. “As a new member, I am looking forward to participating fully and getting to know the members. As a person with a business in the East Bay, I am hoping to work with the GGBA and other East Bay members to facilitate more meetings in the East Bay as well.”

The archive also documents the creation, marketing, and exhibition of The Quilt over the past 32 years. Digital assets include images of all the Quilt blocks and detailed information about the creators of quilt panels. The American Folklife Center will preserve the archival records, which will be made available to researchers and the public after archivists process and organize the materials. “The Library of Congress is proud to serve as the home of the National AIDS Memorial Quilt Archive to preserve its legacy and give the memorial a home on both the East Coast and West Coast,” said Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden. “The Quilt and its archive—including letters, photographs, and personal mementos— help to humanize and demonstrate the scale of the AIDS pandemic in a powerful way while honoring the lives lost.” The announcement was made during a ceremony in the Great Hall at the Library of Congress with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congressman John Lewis and Congresswoman Barbara Lee, speaking to the power of The Quilt. They were joined by the founders of The Quilt, families who lost loved ones to AIDS, quilt panel-

makers, representatives from the NPF, National AIDS Memorial, Library of Congress, AIDS organizations, and quilt long-time supporters. “On behalf of the people of San Francisco, it is a privilege to welcome the AIDS Memorial Quilt permanently back to the Bay Area,” said Speaker Nancy Pelosi. “For over 30 years, the AIDS Quilt has stood as a beautiful tribute to those lost to the devastation of HIV/AIDS and has reminded us all of our responsibility to tell the personal stories lovingly stitched into every panel. We are deeply grateful to the NAMES Project, National AIDS Memorial, and Library of Congress for joining together to ensure that this powerful memorial continues to be a source of comfort, education, and engagement for generations to come.” Visual Reminder of the AIDS Pandemic The Quilt is a powerful visual reminder of the AIDS pandemic and continues as the largest ongoing community folk art project in the world. More than 50,000 individual 3-by-6-foot memorial panels—commemorating more than 105,000 individual lives of people who have died of AIDS—have been sewn together by friends, lovers, and family members and has

transformed into a national treasure. Each year, thousands of panels of The Quilt are displayed throughout the United States and world, serving as both a memorial and a storyteller. Each panel, along with its archival collections, visually documents the evolution of one of the nation’s ongoing civil rights struggles. Tragically, since 1981, close to 636,000 people have died from AIDS in the U.S., with more than 15,000 people having died from AIDS in 2016. Today, there are more than 1.1 million people living with HIV in the U.S., with the number of new cases having dropped by nearly 20% since 2008. To put that in perspective, there were 418,500 Americans killed during World War II. The enormity of loss The Quilt represents has a profound and lasting impact on those who experience it. The Quilt has been a powerful symbol to fight prejudice, raise awareness, promote healing, foster hope through education and prevention, and in memory to those who have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS. The Quilt is also a reminder that much work remains to be done to finally end the pandemic. For more information: https://aidsmemorial.org/ and https://www.loc.gov/

ROSTOW (continued from page 13) States, otherwise I would run right out, sell our Mazda, and buy one, just out of affection for the company that could produce and run such a magnificent ad. And before we drop the subject of commercials, let me say that I am annoyed by the red-haired slacker on the Amazon ad who wanders down the street in headphones musing about what’s on his “agenda,” looks like a moron talking to himself, and is seemingly unaware of his haircut appointment even though it’s the only thing he seems to have on his so-called agenda. That’s not an agenda, folks. It’s a single thing. I also dislike the GEICO ad where the office worker has to send the Gekko an email and it appears that the worker doesn’t know the Gekko’s name. But no. He doesn’t know the Gekko’s email address. That’s different. Just ask, “What’s your email address?” There’s no need to even broach the subject of whether or not the worker remembers the Gekko’s name. It’s irrelevant. A small irregularity perhaps, but I hate inconsistencies. Also, Knorr has a new gay-ish advertisement in India, featuring a handsome guy who knocks at the door on a rainy night and is invited inside by a well-known gay comedian who is not well-known to me, but is famous in India. The gay host hopes to “warm up” his visitor, but the handsome guy just wants soup. The gay guy makes Knorr soup and they kind of leave it at that. Still, there’s a lot of suggestive gay undertones, and unlike Renault, Knorr sells packs of instant soup in our country, so we can show our solidarity. Finally, speaking of solidarity or lack thereof, I’m confused by Chick-fil-A. I recently read that the company had decided to stop funding antigay groups like the Salvation Army and the Federation of Christian Athletes. I also read that some far-right commentators 26

Specialist in Transgender Fertility In her commitment to enhance reproductive health options, Zollinger is board certified in Oriental Reproductive Health (FABORM). In her quest to be a lifelong learner, she earned a certificate in transgender fertility. Zollinger is always learning and expanding her expertise in order to serve with comprehension and care. She explains, “This community has unique needs, which require respect, knowledge, and experience to effectively meet. Understanding, supporting and bringing ease to the hormonal process of those transitioning, trying to conceive, or experiencing any hormonal imbalance or shift is a passion and calling for me. This passion is embedded in the culture of Island Acupuncture.” The practice’s mission statement is really a personal mission statement and the way that Zollinger lives. As she says, “Being an advocate of every letter in our rainbow is so important. From little kids to elder communities, I speak to folks to help them learn and understand that which they may not know about our community.” Zollinger is a bisexual cis-female (she/her pronouns), fortunate to be married to an amazing wife of 22 years, mother to their 16-year-old child, and guardian to two cute little pups. She says, “My family fills my heart so that I can be present to dedicate my full self for my beloved patients.” For more information: http://islandacupunctureandfertility.com/ LANDIS (continued from page 14) beautiful cookbooks on the market: SPQR - Modern Italian Food and Wine (from Ten Speed Press). This nearly 300-page tome, available at the restaurant, provides some of the Chef’s more innovative recipes, as well as techniques such as stove-top smoking and more. SPQR creates special dining every day, but New Year’s Eve takes it to the next level. It’s a great way to celebrate the holiday at a more approachable and casual neighborhood restaurant. However, make your reservations now: SPQR only has 45 seats and books up early. Chef Matthew deliciously sums up the SPQR culinary experience like this: “The capacity to create memories for our customers brings us joy. It’s the greatest gift of the restaurant business. We’re part of that every night.” For further information, visit SPQR online at https://www.spqrsf.com/

were mad at this and were planning their own boycott. Bear with me now. I may have mentioned that back in the day when we first decided to boycott Chick-fil-A, I read a powerful opeditorial by some gay guy who loved Chick-fil-A with all his heart and was nonetheless prepared to join the boycott. Personally, I’m not a fried chicken fan and had never tried Chick-fil-A, so my own boycott required no sacrifice. But this man’s essay provided such a compelling description of Chick-fil-A deliciousness that I was tempted to run off and get one immediately. Later, the GLBT community held a kiss-in at Chickfil-A franchises around the country, and Mel and I loyally went to one of these. After it was done, some of my gay male comrades in arms bought sandwiches, which undermined the entire protest. I wanted one too, but courageously resisted. All of this is a long-winded way to say that I was thinking that now I might finally try one of these Chick-fil-A offerings! Guilt free. But then I read that the company is simply reevaluating its charitable donations and has stopped giving to numerous groups, including many that have nothing to do with our community whatsoever. The pause in gifts to the Salvation Army and many others has nothing to do with GLBT rights, and there’s no guarantee that the company won’t start funding these or other unpleasant operations in the future. So, the bottom line is, um, well, I’m confused and will continue to avoid the CfA temptation. One of these days. Into the Unknown I wrote myself a note about a ProPublica piece listing 31 ways that Trump has made life harder for the GLBT community. The article is clear and concise, an impressive presentation for anyone with a masochistic desire to remind themselves of the sheer nastiness of

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this administration and the insidious setbacks that we have been experiencing under the radar. In the end, I skipped the details, but those of you who feel like getting depressed can have at it. Happy holidays! Instead, let’s talk about Frozen 2. I haven’t seen it, but I read one review that suggests Elsa is a “queer icon,” and has always been. Writing in Vox, Emily Todd VanDerWerff provides a deft and really funny analysis, one that I was all set to joke around about until I kept reading and realized VanDerWerff was concluding with a legitimate point, namely that Disney presents itself as GLBT-friendly and woke, aiming to win credit for hinting at ambiguous sexuality here and there when, in fact, it’s high time for companies like Disney to just come out and put an actual GLBT character on the screen. Oh, and Elsa might be a lesbian at that. Now, it’s that time. Just a hundred or so words left and no opportunity to start a new section. I see from my list that one of the side topics I never got around to discussing was “dead tree,” the story of a tree, given to Trump by French President Macron, who dug it up from a forest outside Paris where American troops fought the Germans in World War I. The two leaders made a show of planting this baby tree on the lawn of the White House back in April of 2018. Fast forward a year or so and the French announced that the tree had died. Apparently, as soon as Macron left the U.S., our experts dug up the tree in order to put it into quarantine since it entered the country from abroad. The tree didn’t survive quarantine and was never replaced. I don’t know. To me, the incident just typifies the careless indifference to history and symbolism that represents just one of this administration’s countless deficiencies. Not to mention the incompetence. arostow@aol.com

You can make reservations at https://www.opentable.com/ David Landis, aka “The Gay Gourmet,” is a foodie, a freelance writer, and a PR executive. Follow him on Instagram @GayGourmetSF, on Twitter @ david_landis, email him at: david@landispr.com or visit him online at: https://gaygourmetsf.com/

SACHET (continued from page 15) It all benefits Project Open Hand and AGUILAS. And, as always, after the show, VIP guests and most of the performers celebrate at a reception, this time at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel. A couple of years ago, we officially retired Donna Sachet’s Songs of the Season after 25 years of performances benefiting the AIDS Emergency Fund. Last year, however, Brian Kent boldly stepped forward asking if he could produce this popular event, adding his own professional experience and contacts while maintaining the beloved community touches. We appreciatively agreed. This year, for the second time with Brian at the helm, Songs of the Season returns Tuesday and Wednesday, December 10 and 11, 8 pm, at Feinstein’s at the Nikko. Performers include Leanne Borghesi, Breanna Sinclaire, Kenny Nelson, Kippy Marks, Dan O’Leary, and Frenchie Davis (Tuesday, December 10, only). The intimate venue of Feinstein’s will embrace you in luxury and comfort. Word has it that Sister Roma will have a role this year and yes, Brian will sing and perhaps he will convince me to sing as well. Now benefiting PRC, which provides essential services to a wide spectrum of those impacted by AIDS, substance use, and/or mental health issues, Songs of the Season will bring you the warmth, humor, and music of the holidays. With this sampling of our favorite holiday events, we hope you are as excited as we are to enjoy first class entertainment while offering financial assistance to worthy organizations that keep our City thriving. Don’t let your holiday schedule overwhelm you! Take charge. Select your events judiciously, keeping in mind you own energy level, financial means, and social involvement. Put together some fun outfits and join in the cavalcade of holiday merriment! Above all, spend your holiday leisure time with those whom you love and those who love you. We’ll be seeing you soon! Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com

KIT’N KITTY’S

QUEER POP QUIZ ANSWER (Question on pg 21) D) Tallulah Bankhead Multiple sources report that Holiday and Bankhead were a couple in the late 1940s. They likely first met in Harlem in the 1930s, and rekindled the connection a decade or so later when both were performing on Broadway at the same time in different shows.

Cousins Is a Sweet Gay Brazilian Romance

Film Gary M. Kramer In Cousins, out on DVD and VOD December 3, lonely Lucas (Paulo Sousa) first meets his cousin Mario (co-writer/director Thiago Cazado) when the latter comes to stay with him and Lucas’ religious aunt, Lourdes ( Juliana Zancanaro). However, once Lourdes leaves for a trip, and the young men start to bond, Lucas falls in love with Mario and they act on their attraction. Their relationship, however, is threatened by Julia (Duda Esteves), a music student who wants Lucas for herself. Cazado infuses his romance with broad humor and tender sex scenes. He recently spoke via Skype with me for the San Francisco Bay Times about Cousins. Gary M. Kramer: Like Cousins, your last feature, About Us also depicted two young men in love. Why do you make romantic stories about young men in love?

Thiago Cazado: I really enjoy writing love stories, and I like to inspire young audiences who identify with these stories. But Cousins will be my last “youth” film because I think I can no longer fool the audience about my real age! Gary M. Kramer: There are strong religious overtones in the film. Can you talk about that aspect of Brazilian culture and how it is/is not accepting of homosexuality? Thiago Cazado: Brazil is a very diverse country in every respect. It is a very liberal country on one hand, and very biased on the other. It is a country where homosexuals are mostly killed in hate crimes. The reality I depict in Cousins is very

common in Brazil. When I was 15 and came out as gay to a friend, he thanked me because he also confessed to being gay. He said he asked God every day not to go to hell. Gary M. Kramer: The film is also about combating homophobia. Can you talk about gay backlash in Brazil? There seems to be fear for gays with the new president. Thiago Cazado: When Bolsonaro was elected, the queer community panicked. He has scary opinions about the LGBT community. It is sad, but thankfully, we have a solid democracy in Brazil, and we have many important people taking care of this democracy: artists, politicians, scientists, thinkers. It is important

for people to express themselves and defend their freedoms. The world moves forward, even though sometimes, things move backwards. I am confident that in the end, love will always win. That is why I make movies like Cousins, to encourage, and give hope and joy.

the film, you must decide how to show off your body.

Gary M. Kramer: The humor in Cousins is very broad. Can you talk about how you created the comedy?

Gary M. Kramer: I like that you co-write, co-direct and star in your films. Will you continue to make romantic films?

Thiago Cazado: Many of my fans ask for happy endings. I make my films totally for the public—especially those who identify with my work. If they like my work and it makes them smile, I feel fulfilled. The world is very heavy. I am also in a moment where I can’t stand watching movies that make me sad. Cousins was also a necessity for me to be able to watch a light, fun, happy ending movie. Being able to do this by mocking the prejudices is even tastier!

Thiago Cazado: There are movies that I wrote that I want to make but I have to wait until I am older. But it will be a natural progression. I am a romantic, and watching a romantic movie makes me feel love. I think it’s important to have references about love and how beautiful it is to love someone. This feeds our soul. It is important for artists to create these things. As an artist, I want to be able to make romantic films for people. We need to remind the world about having a boyfriend and being in love. I was at a film festival in North Carolina where a gentleman who saw Cousins was moved and hugged me so tight. I was delighted with the loving way they received the film and me.

Gary M. Kramer: What can you say about creating the sexual tension/attraction between Lucas and Mario? Thiago Cazado: Relationships between cousins are a common fetish. I wanted to play with viewer’s imagination. The sex scenes with Paulo were done in one take, and without much rehearsal. I like spontaneity. I tell the actors, “Live. Be present. Try not to act. You can’t fool the camera.” Gary M. Kramer: You frequently appear fully naked in Cousins. Given that you write and direct

Thiago Cazado: Yes, I am always naked in the movies. I think I’m really an exhibitionist. I think nudity is a natural, beautiful thing. It brings viewers into the story and the intimacy of the characters.

© 2019 Gary M. Kramer Gary M. Kramer is the author of “Independent Queer Cinema: Reviews and Interviews,” and the co-editor of “Directory of World Cinema: Argentina.” Follow him on Twitter @garymkramer

One Dyke’s Theater: Selected Plays 1975–2014 by Terry Baum By Tara Ayres

In addition to the plays themselves, there is an interesting forward by Baum’s long-time theater crony, Carolyn Myers, which is itself a slice of history. And Baum has written a new introduction to each play that sets it in personal and historical context. I found those introductions fascinating, as a look into the nexus between the playwright’s life and her work; the plays stand on their own without explanation, but the introductions enhanced my enjoyment of them. Each play is fronted by a collage of posters from different productions, which also serve as historical markers. The earliest play in the book, “Dos Lesbos,” is consistent with much of

early queer theater, with its theme of coming out. What’s different (and truly funny) about it is that the eponymous Dos Lesbos imagine coming out to their families in a variety of styles from Greek tragedy to restoration comedy to sitcom. Interestingly, while many know Baum for her comedy, “Immediate Family,” (1983) about a woman whose lover of 27 years is dying, is the most popular and most produced of her plays. It’s also Baums’s first play that didn’t draw directly on her own life. Aside from the obvious change of the legalization of same-sex marriage, the script really reminded me of how our views of our lesbianism changed over the years, as the world changed and as we changed. Perhaps the funniest play (among a lot of great comedy) is 1987’s “One Fool,” which includes the title character falling in love with audience member after audience member, before moving on to falling in love with a coatrack. It definitely contains one of the funniest scenes I’ve ever read, which involves our hero per-

forming cunnilingus on the aforementioned coatrack. And probably the most lesbian lines in the book, uttered by the Fool, after she suggests to her new lover that she relocate 6,000 miles to Amsterdam from San Francisco: “After all, love is more important to me than my friends, my family, my career, my country, and my entire life up to this point. And besides, I really like Amsterdam.” I want someone to produce this play again so that I can go see it! The other hysterically funny script is “Bride of Lesbostein” (2013) about a mad scientist who creates the woman of her dreams from the DNA of her 34 ex-lovers, each imperfect but with one perfect trait, the sum of which add up to her ideal woman. “Waiting for the Podiatrist” (2003) involves one actress who plays a slightly fictionalized version of Baum herself, and who uses hand puppets to portray her aging mother and father. The not-so-funny subject is the hellish world of doctors and hos-

pitals the family lands in after the father has a stroke and becomes comatose. But in Baum’s hands, the story is both seriously touching and seriously funny. “Hick: A Love Story” (2014) is a lovely telling of the story of Lorena Hickok, who was Eleanor Roosevelt’s lover (and lived in the White House for most of FDR’s Presidency) but was also a groundbreaking reporter and investigator. It’s not a comedy, although I doubt that Baum is capable of writing a play devoid of humor, but it is sweet and moving. Baum describes herself as a slightly world-renowned lesbian playwright. Based on the work represented here, she clearly deserves to have the “slightly” erased from that sobriquet. Tara Ayres is a singer, writer, actor, director, and general theater geek. She served as the Artistic Director for StageQ, Madison, Wisconsin’s queer theater company, for 10 years, and was the theater columnist for “Our Lives Magazine” before relocating to the Bay Area in 2014.

Terry Baum

PHOTO BY DENNIS STEINAUER

This collection of plays is a delicious read, really funny and often moving. I seldom laugh out loud while reading, but I did with this anthology. The plays also serve as a kind of lesbian feminist social history. If you’re a lesbian feminist of a certain age, reading Terry Baum’s collected plays is a bit like revisiting a wittier, more entertaining version of your past.

As Heard on the Street . . . Which presidential candidate is your favorite so far? compiled by Rink

Sylvia Vargas

Steve Martel

Kristen Beck

John Weber

Alexander Upchurch

“I like Elizabeth Warren."

“Right now I’m backing Joe Biden, but I’m open to anyone who can beat Trump."

“Beto O’Rourke"

“Pete Buttigieg, Kamala Harris, or Elizabeth Warren"

“Pete Buttigieg is my choice, and he should win.”

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NOVEM BER 28, 2019

BAY TIMES S

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

COMING UP

CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS http://sfbaytimes.com/ Compiled by Blake Dillon

28 Thursday THANKSGIVING DAY LGBTQ Veteran Outreach Project @ SF Vet Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Hosted by Swords to Plowshares, the event is a free clinic for LGBTQ+ veterans seeking assistance with benefits and military discharge upgrades. 9:30am-12:30pm. https://bit.ly/2rnR7Yk Thanksgiving Day Celebration @ Glide Memorial Church, 330 Ellis Street. The world renowned Glide Ensemble and the congregation will share what they are thankful for in a communal open mic service. 10am. http://www.glide.org Thanksgiving Luncheon @ Billy DeFrank Community Center, 938 The Alameda, San Jose. All are welcome at this community potluck. 11am-2pm. http://www.defrankcenter.org Tenderloin Tessie Thanksgiving Dinner @ First Unitarian Church, 1187 Franklin Street. Volunteers are needed to help at this holiday dinner held annually. tenderlointessie@yahoo.com Thanksgiving Potluck Lunch @ Castro Country Club, 4058 18th Street. Food, fun and fellowship are the goals of CCC’s Thanksgiving Day event where turkeys are provided and you’re encouraged to bring a side dish or dessert to share. 2-4:30pm. http://www.castrocountryclub.org Tater THOTS: A Thanksgiving Variety Show @ SF Eagle, 398 12th Street. The show features burlesque, drag, comedy, fur and fun served up with a special taste of gravy. 8-11pm http://www.eaglesf.com

29 Friday Bolinas Open Studios Thanksgiving Weekend @ Multiple studios in Bolinas. Artists working in various media open their studios and offer special small items for the holidays. 11am-5pm Nov29-Dec 1. http://www.coastalmarinartists.com Ghostbusters: Film with the SF Symphony @ Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness. The Symphony’s Film Series presents another classic with fantastic performances on the big screen and stage. 6pm. http://www.sfsymphony.org A Christmas Carol @ A.C.T.’s Geary Theater, 415 Geary Street. Charles Dickens’ classic returns to A.C.T. for the holiday season. Multiple times and dates through December 24. http://www.act-sf.org Gallery of Illustrious Queers: Portraits by Jordan Reznick @ James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center, SF Public Library, 100 Larkin Street. The exhibit, continuing through January 16, 2020, is based on the idea that honoring the breadth of trans people’s embodiments and life experiences will build the movement for transgender 28

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pride and liberation. Check daily schedule. http://www.sfpl.org Testmatch World Premiere @ A.C.T.’s Strand Theater, 1127 Market Street. A.C.T.’s Tony Award Winning artistic director Pam MacKinnon directs the launch of the new play by Kate Attwell that questions colonialism, gender and power. 7:30pm. Continues through December 8. http://www.act-sf.org Golden Girls Live: The Christmas Episodes @ Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th Street. Now an annual tradition, this drag send-up and loving tribute brings local stars Heklina (Dorothy), Matthew Martin (Blanche), D’Arcy Drollinger (Rose), and Holotta Tymes (Sophia). 8pm and continuing through December 22. http://www.goldengirlssf.com

30 Saturday Light in the Grove 2019 @ National AIDS Memorial, Nancy Pelosi & Bowling Green Drives. The 10th annual Light in the Grove fundraiser presents an artisticallyilluminated light display, candlelight reflection and tented space offering cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, buffet dinner and musical and choreographed performances. 6-9:30pm. http://www.aidsmemorial.org Kinky Boots @ KQED Great Performances. The Tony Award-winning musical, with songs by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein, about an unexpected duo embracing their differences to create an extraordinary line of shoes. 9pm. Check listings through December 15. http://www.kqed.org Learn to Skate @ Safeway Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square. Every Saturday and Sunday, learn to skate from professional instructors. 8:30-9:30am. https://bit.ly/37z21v1

DECEMBER

1 Sunday WORLD AIDS DAY World AIDS Day Observance @ National AIDS Memorial, Nancy Pelosi & Bowling Green Drives. Hosted by the National AIDS Memorial, the 26th annual World AIDS Day National Observance is open to the public, free of charge. 12-1:30pm. http://www.aidsmemorial.org Swagger Like Us @ El Rio, 3158 Mission Street. An afternoon of booty dropping hip hop, cookout with DJs and live performances each first Sunday. 2-8pm. http://www.sfaf.org Smack Dab Queer Open Mic @ Manny’s, 3092 16th Street. All are invited to the open mic to share, on World AIDS Day, expressions of survival, response and loss. 5pm. http://www.welcometomannys.com

2 Monday World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil @ Gather at SFAF, 1035 Market Street and walk to City Hall. http://www.sfaf.org

Do Ask! Do Tell! Servicemembers Support Group @SF LGBT Center, 1800 Market Street. Hosted by The Center and Swords to Plowshares, the event welcomes LGBT veterans seeking support and assistance with discharge paperwork and more. 6-7pm. http://www.sflgbtcenter.org Pubquiz at Virgil’s Sea Room @ The Big Queer Pubzquiz, 3152 Mission Street. This 90-minute quiz, based on current events and general knowledge with a special theme round, includes five rounds in ninety minutes with free drinks and weird prizes every Monday night. 7:30-9:30pm. nosportstrivai@gmail.com

3 Tuesday 10th Annual State of the LGBTQ Movement @ SF Public Library, 100 Larkin Street. Hosted by the Horizons Foundation and the James C. Hormel Center of the SF Public Library, the event will feature a panel of national and international leaders of the LGBTQ movement. 5:30pm. http://www.horizonsfoundation.org Being the Obama Advisor: A Conversation with Valerie Jarrett @ Manny’s, 3092 16th Street. Close friend and mentor to the Obamas, Jarrett will discuss her role as a friend and advisor to the Obamas. 6:30-8pm. http://www.welcometomannys.com The Chronicles of San Francisco Exhibit @ SF Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third Street. Internationally recognized artist JR’s work displays the voices of SF as an extraordinary, unique and diverse city. Check ongoing daily times except Mondays. http://www.sfmoma.org

4 Wednesday Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting @ Civic Center. Mayor London Breed will light the tree at this family-friendly event featuring holiday entertainment, “snow” flurries, holiday crafts and refreshments. 4-7pm. https://bit.ly/34mVsde GAPA Volleyball - Open Play! @ Betty Ann Ong Chinese Recreation Center, 1199 Mason Street. Make new friends, learn the basics or play competitively. 6:30-8pm. http://gapa.org Abby Stein @ Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, 3200 California Street. JCCSF’s Arts & Ideas presents the author of From Ultra-Orthodox Rabbi to Transgender Woman. 12pm and 7pm. http://www.jccsf.org Holiday Lights @ SF Conservatory of Flowers, 100 JF Kennedy Drive. The event is a nightly opportunity to revel in the Conservatory where light and sound infuse the one-of-a-kind plant collection and iconic facade. 5pm through January 5. http://bit.ly/nightbloom2019 Remarkable WWII Rosie Exhibit Opening @ Jewett Gallery, SF Public Library, 100 Larkin

Street. Artist Carol Witten exhibits 60 Digital Prints (diptychs) from her historical essay Remarkable WWII Rosie. Continues through January 26. http://www.sfpl.org

5 Thursday Castro Art Walk @ Multiple Castro businesses and Jane Warner Plaza. Merchants, artists and musicians present an evening of free fun on first Thursdays. 6-9pm. http://www.castroartwalk.com Fantasia: The Sketchbook Tour @Paramount Theater, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. The star brings her national tour to Oakland. 7:30pm. http://www.paramounttheater.com 10th Annual Drag Queens On Ice @ Union Square Ice Rink. Join emcee Donna Sachet and the drag queens on the ice for a set of festive performances as only they can present. 8pm. http://www.unionsquareicerink.com

6 Friday Tenderloin Tessie Christmas Cabaret @ First Unitarian Church, 1187 Franklin Street. Home for the Holidays is the theme for this annual benefit supporting the organizations’s holiday dinners. Volunteers are needed to help at this annual event. http://www.vanessabousay.com Ebabes TGIF with Ruby’s in Town @ The Terrace Room, Lake Merritt Hotel, 1800 Madison Street, Oakland. Join DB, Lynn and Jen and all the women for this longstanding mixer for women. 6pm. Ebabes on Facebook The Rainbow Flag: A Children’s History @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street. Author Michele Millar Fisher and illustrator Kat Kuang will present their new children’s book: The Rainbow Flag: Bright, Bold and Beautiful. 7-9pm. http://www.glbthistory.org

7 Saturday Family Builders By Adoption Orientation @ Family Builders, 1900 Embarcadero, Suite 303. You can bring your questions about adoption to this informational event held monthly on first Saturdays. 9:45am. http://www.familybuilders.org Bad Santa SantaCon Party @ Love & Propaganda, 85 Compton Place, Union Square. Hosted by Fisher & Dolby and Crossroads Nightlife, the event returns to this Union Square location in conjunction with the large Santacom meetup. 11am-6pm. nick@loveandpropaganda.com Noe Valley Holiday Wine Walk @ Noe Valley Town Square, 3861 24th Street. Sample delicious wines and explore the unique 24th Street neighborhood. 3-8pm. https://bit.ly/2OSIJbJ

8 Sunday Salsa Sunday with Mazacote @ El Rio, 3158 Mission Street. An afternoon party of live Salsa, Merengue and Cumbia bands on the patio, held every 2nd and 4th Sunday, supporting nonprofit groups. 3-8pm. Beginners class at 3:00pm. http://www.sfaf.org Sunday’s A Drag Brunch @ Sir Francis Drake Hotel, Powell Street. Hosted by Donna Sachet, the event features a brunch and a troupe of entertainers. Described as “The Greatest Drag Show in San Francisco,” we agree that it is great! 11am. http://www.startlightroomsf.com S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

NOVEM BER 28, 2019

Round About - All Over Town Holiday Season

BAY TIMES S

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2019)

Photos by Rink

items of the week Cuisinart Chef’s Classic 16in Roasting Pan

A holiday wreath is now on display on the BART and MUNI elevator shaft near the Powell Street Cable Car turnaround at 5th and Market Streets.

This stainless steel roasting pan with a rack is big enough for all your roasting needs, but is still stylish enough to display on your table. Priced at an affordable $59.99.

The Alexander Hamilton American Legion Post 444 color guard presented the flags at the “Do Ask/Do Tell” celebration at the SF LGBT Center on November 15.

If You Care NonStick Parchment Roasting Bags Avoid single-use plastic oven bags or potentially toxic paper grocery bags with these parchment paper roasting bags. Specifically designed to lock in moisture while being certified compostable and still easy to clean up. Price $11.99 for a pack of two.

The Safeway Ice Rink at Union Square opened on November 6 and will continue through January 20. More than 33,000 lights and 1,100 ornaments will shine when the Macy’s Great Tree Lighting takes place on Friday, November 29, 6-7:30pm.

Special guest Ms. Billie Cooper spoke during the “Do Ask/Do Tell” celebration at the SF LGBT Center.

he air is crisp and the glitter is out in abundance. Our Glitter Brigade of Clifflings is working hard to get out all of our amazing holiday decor.

Suzanne, Dana and Beverly were among the participants attending the “Do Ask/Do Tell” event on November 15.

Event greeter Anvar displayed a transgender flag during the “Do Ask/ Do Tell” event.

Eustinove Smith, Gene Dominique, curator Robert Melton, AfroSolor executive director Thomas Robert Simpson, Charles Blackwell, Alexandra Nunez and Larry Byrd were on hand at the Main Library for the “Standing on the Mountain Top” exhibit closing during the AfroSolo Arts Festival on November 10.

Artwork by Alexandra Nunez was on display during the AfroSolo Arts Festival.

CHEN (continued from page 18) in the San Francisco Women’s Flag Football League (SFWFFL). Oh, and they also were married in December 2017. “Communication and trust are the keys to success in football,” advises Hollingsworth. “Playing football together has definitely brought us even closer and further strengthened our relationship.” “I had to learn to listen to Erin on the field because she’s the quarterback, the leader of the team,” Ongpin says. “In the beginning, it was hard to hear about my mistakes, but over time, I realized Erin was really there to help and guide me. On the field, she always knows to say positive and encouraging things to me, just like at home. Erin compliments me. Tells me I did well and I look great, etc. She’s my guardian and my love!” Hollingsworth evidenced that during my interview with her. 30

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

“I love how Isabel is such a student of the game,” she says. “Playing football together has been a healthy outlet for the both of us. When she messed up or I made a terrible play, we tell each other something we did right. When she scored a touchdown, I felt most proud! Regardless of the results on or off the field, the most important thing is when we don’t succeed, we did it together. And when we do succeed, we did it together. Everything we do, graduating from college, playing football, we are bettering ourselves together.” And if you, like me, were wondering whatever happened to that message Hollingsworth sent to Ongpin on Match.com, Ongpin says she never got it. John Chen, a UCLA alumnus and an avid sports fan, has competed as well as coached tennis, volleyball, softball and football teams. NOVE MB E R 2 8 , 2 0 1 9

Singers and drummers performed during the “We Remember” Native American Social at the SF Arts Commission on November 19.

The Mint band performed at the SF Music Hall of Fame ground breaking event sponsored by the Lower Polk CBD in Fern Alley on November 10.

James C. Hormel Center’s Dee Dee Kramer shared a hug with emcee Randy Burns during the Gay American Indians “We Remember” Native American Social on November 19 at the SF Arts Commission Gallery. A slide show about the history of Two Spirits LGBT Native Americans was presented.

Participants at the SF Music Hall of Fame Ground Breaking enjoyed beverages served on November 10 by El Lopo owner Daniel Azarkman (left) and his colleague.

The popular Espanada Food Truck’s server offered their specialities for sale at the So Ma StrEat Food Park on 11th Street.