San Francisco Bay Times - September 19, 2024

About Our Cover ELECTION 2024

The September 19, 2024, issue of the San Francisco Bay Times looks at this year’s San Francisco mayoral race with an LGBTQ+ lens. Doing so would have been unthinkable at the time of the city’s first mayor, John White Geary, who was in office from May 1850 to May 1851. The initialism LGBT was not even in use until around 1988. Geary and other early politicians, however, made a lasting mark on San Francisco. In addition to Geary, members of the first city council included those with the surnames Green, Harrison, Townsend, Davis, and Brannan—all key streets in the city to this day.

The first San Francisco mayors were in office for a year or less. That began to change in 1856, with Ephriam Willard Burr, who served from November 1856 to October 1859.

Mayor Breed, in contrast, became acting mayor in December 2017, and assumed her present position as the 45th Mayor of San Francisco on July 11, 2018. She is far from being the longest serving mayor, though. That distinction goes to James Rolph, who served for over 18 years before being elected as the 27th governor of California (1931 until his death during the height of the Great Depression on June 2, 1934).

Polls about the current race have been all over the charts. A month ago, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Mayor Breed was surging ahead while one of her opponents, President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Aaron Peskin, was struggling to gain support. Peskin signs on homes now blanket the Castro, showing his strong base in the district. Last week, a KRON4 poll found that former mayor and supervisor Mark Farrell had edged ahead of Breed. Days later, attorneys for three opposing mayoral campaigns hold that Farrell’s ads violate campaign law.

All of the candidates are emphasizing their views on crime and safety, homelessness, the impacts of drug addiction on the city, and other issues that affect nearly every resident, not to mention those who work in San Francisco or who visit the city. The LGBTQ+ community has particular concerns, however, such as supportive housing for queer youth, and on the other side of the age spectrum, serving LGBTQ+ seniors in culturally sensitive ways with dignity and compassion. The mayor must also make critical decisions about funding, helping to make or break LGBTQ+ focused programs and more. Which mayor then, out of this race’s candidates, would be the best for San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community, a community that often has global influence and impact? Consider that as you read the statements provided by Mayor Breed, Supervisor Peskin, Daniel Lurie (the founder and former CEO of Tipping Point Community), and small business owner Keith Freedman.

There are a total of 13 candidates, with the top five being Mayor Breed, Supervisor Peskin, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, Lurie, and Farrell. Supervisor Safaí’s team and campaign did not respond to San Francisco Bay Times queries. Farrell’s campaign said that he could not respond in time for this issue due to capacity. To see the list of all mayoral candidates and the information they provided when filing their declaration for candidacy, go to: https://bit.ly/4d979qv

What I Plan to Do for the LGBTQ+ Community During My Next Term as Mayor of San Francisco

By Mayor London Breed

I believe my administration has done more to uplift the LGBTQ community than any in city history. I am proud of our record together and excited for where we go from here. San Francisco has never rested on its laurels and neither will we.

In my next term, I will build on our work to:

elevate LGBTQ leaders across the board; defend and celebrate the transgender community; end trans homelessness; protect LGTBQ youth; serve LGBTQ seniors; Get to Zero; complete major improvements in the Castro; and cement the city’s role as the global leader in gay culture.

I am proud to have appointed LGBTQ leaders, including the heads of our Departments of Public Health, Human Resources, Fire, Homelessness and Supportive Housing, the Municipal Transportation Agency (Muni), and more. I’ve appointed gay District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey and more than 100 LGBTQ city commissioners. And over half of my own policy staff identify as LGBTQ. I will always ensure LGBTQ people are part of city leadership.

Sadly, the most pressing fight these days is for the basic human rights of our transgender siblings. I’ve been fighting beside you for years and will stay beside you for the next four years.

I have worked hand-in-hand with the Office of Transgender Initiatives (OTI), the first trans-serving and trans-led government office in the nation. I recently appointed Honey Mahogany to lead the office, the first trans Black woman to hold this position.

We became the first city in the country to declare August Transgender History Month. We launched a guaranteed income program for transgender women of color, the first of its kind in the country. The program helped ease the financial insecurity faced by those who suffer some of the worst discrimination. With Honey at the helm, we’ll continue developing new and innovative solutions like this, unafraid to try new approaches. And I am dedicated to ending trans homelessness by 2027.

We opened the first shelter in the nation specifically for trans women. We launched Our Trans Home SF, the first rental subsidy program specifically for transgender individuals. We’ve already invested over $10 million and housed hundreds of people, many of them seniors and people of color. About 40% of transgender individuals in San Francisco face housing instability. I intend to bring that to zero.

We will continue our work to protect LGBTQ youth and the organizations that serve them, both of which, sadly, face disproportionate rates of threats and violence. And we will keep fighting LGBTQ youth homelessness, which is disproportionately high. LGBTQ kids have often been rejected by their community, disavowed by their church, even kicked out by their parents. The City of Saint Francis should always welcome them.

We’ve acquired a site for supportive housing for homeless LGBTQ youth. It will provide shelter and comprehensive services, like mental health care and job training. We are on track to open it in my next term.

On the other end, my administration will keep supporting LGBTQ seniors. We will create more innovative solutions like the senior tele-mental health program we established with Openhouse during Covid to provide support during a period of isolation.

We will continue not just funding Getting to Zero, but working to actually get to zero new HIV infections. My administration always has and always will offset federal funding cuts to HIV services, ensuring accessible services for those living with HIV. I was proud to be the first mayor in over 12 years to create new rental subsidies for people living with HIV, because we know that housing security is part of getting to zero.

Our efforts are working! New HIV infections are at an alltime low, dropping by almost a quarter last year and almost in half among the Latino community.

We will continue our work to solidify the Castro as a beautiful, welcoming gay neighborhood. I’ve implemented a number of laws to help our small businesses and activate vacant spaces, and I want the businesses in the Castro/Upper Market succeeding and vacancies going down.

I also placed a measure on the November ballot to provide tens of millions of dollars to rebuild Harvey Milk Plaza, transforming it into a proper monument to him and a great community gathering space. The measure will also invest in City Clinic, to continue meeting the health needs of our LGTBQ community.

Lastly, I intend to continue cementing San Francisco’s role as the global LGBTQ cultural leader. We’ve invested over $12 million locally and secured another $5 million thanks to Senator Scott Wiener to build the nation’s first LGBTQ history museum. And we created the first ever Drag Laureate in the world, standing firmly against efforts to curtail LGBTQ expression.

We will end trans homelessness in my next term. We will rebuild Harvey Milk Plaza. We will open the doors to the first LGBTQ history museum. We will finally meet our goal of getting to zero new HIV infections.

And we won’t stop there.

Other candidates in this election offer empty promises, or a blank stare when asked to name a gay advisor or drag queen. I offer my decades of work side-by-side with the LGBTQ community, the countless successes we’ve shared together, the losses we’ve overcome together, the love and support we have for one other, and the hope for an even stronger future. I am London Breed and I am always proud to serve as your mayor.

London Breed is the 45th Mayor of the City and County of San Francisco. https://www.londonformayor.com/

ELECTION 2024

My Vision to Elevate San Francisco

By Keith Freedman

As the top-performing openly gay candidate for mayor this year, the San Francisco Bay Times asked me to write about my plans and goals for the LGBTQ+ community. Now, don’t get me wrong. I love the Bay Times, and I’m an out-and-proud gay man, but the question left me feeling a little ... meh.

I mean, come on—it’s 2024, and we’re in San Francisco, the gayest city in America. Do we still have battles to fight here? Outside of our special bubble? Of course! But here in the city Mrs. Madrigal called “the lost Atlantis,” with our Transamerica Pyramid glowing like a beacon of hope to queers everywhere, is there really more work to do? Sure, there are still challenges, but aren’t they the same for everyone at this point? Does being gay make the heartbreak of homelessness hit us any harder than it does straight people? My plan to fix this city and tackle the homeless crisis (check it out at https://bit.ly/4gs7ffr ) isn’t some sort of “super gay” plan—it’s just the best one out there. Well, maybe it is a little queer in that it’s pretty darn fabulous.

And about the housing crisis—is it a GAY problem that people can’t afford rent because housing supply hasn’t caught up with demand? Do our gay dollars not stretch as far? Or do we just need smarter policies on construction for everyone (another little idea of mine, by the way)?

Then there was the time the police took months to respond to a robbery at my small business. And no, it wasn’t because I’m gay. Trust me, I know—I’ve served on the SFPD Small Business Security Advisory forum and gone out on patrol with the brave officers sworn to serve and protect. It’s our outdated policies that prevent them from doing their jobs, which is why I’m pushing for a stronger community policing program (plan also on my website).

So, is there still work to do for the LGBTQ+ community? Well, my candidacy alone kind of answers that. Harvey Milk believed in electing queer people to represent us, and yet both queer Democratic Clubs, the Alice B. Toklas and the one that took Harvey’s name, endorsed straight candidates this year. Equality California, which only endorses openly gay candidates, is still deciding whether or not they will endorse anyone this year.

You might only know about me and my ideas thanks to this article because—here’s the kicker—the very openly gay politicians who inspired me to run? They haven’t exactly helped get my name out there. But they do love to talk about how we need to elect more gay people.

At the local level, many of our struggles as queer folks mirror those of the larger community, but let’s be real—we still see the world through our unique lens. We’ve always been a part of the system, yet, somehow, always felt like outsiders. As the only candidate who grew up closeted, I bring the kind of empathy for outsiders that you don’t just learn—it’s lived.

San Francisco gave me the space to find magic, beauty, and the freedom to accept myself and others. And now, I’m the leading gay candidate, treated like an outsider by all the gay politicians and institutions.

So, what would it mean if you elect me as San Francisco’s first openly gay mayor? Well, it might mean absolutely nothing—or it might just mean everything.

Keith Freedman is a small business owner who previously worked as a software engineer at Los Alamos National Laboratory and as an educator at City College of San Francisco and the University of California, Berkeley. https://mayor.keithfreedman.com/

Building a Future of Pride: My Commitment to LGBTQ+ Inclusion in San Francisco

By Daniel Lurie

Our city needs a mayor who will stand up for the LGBTQ+ community not just during election season, but every single day. San Francisco has long been a leader in LGBTQ+ rights, but words are not enough. The challenges facing the community—especially trans women of color—demand real action, not just lip service when votes are on the line.

As a lifelong San Franciscan, I’ve always felt the heartbeat of our LGBTQ+ community. Since launching this campaign, I’ve deepened my understanding through nonprofit site visits, roundtables with service providers, and conversations with the Alice B. Toklas and Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Clubs. These experiences have revealed urgent needs we can’t ignore. The LGBTQ+ community has always been central to San Francisco’s identity, and we must do more to protect and uplift it—especially during times of uncertainty.

My plan focuses on key initiatives to uplift and support our LGBTQ+ community:

Ensuring Public Safety for All

Every San Franciscan deserves to live without fear. I will strengthen protections for the transgender community, fight hate crimes with real consequences, and ensure everyone feels safe reporting violence and discrimination. Safety is a right, not a privilege, and my administration will ensure that no group is left behind.

Defending the Transgender Community

A resident once asked me, “What will you do to protect my community?” That question drives my campaign. The murder of Michelle Henry, a trans woman, is a tragic reminder that hate still lurks. We must be unwavering in our commitment to the transgender community. I will champion gender-affirming care, mental health services for LGBTQ+ youth, and the creation of safe spaces for trans students. And yes, I will make San Francisco a sanctuary city for transgender rights.

Revitalizing the Castro and LGBTQ+ Nightlife

Our LGBTQ+ cultural districts—like the Castro, Leather, and Trans districts—are pillars of our identity. I’ll focus on public safety and cleanliness to bring

vibrancy back to these areas, supporting local businesses, and promoting LGBTQ+-friendly nightlife that reflects the heart of our city. The Castro isn’t just a place; it’s a symbol of hope and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community worldwide.

Elevating LGBTQ+ Arts and Culture

Art tells the story of who we are. It’s time our cultural institutions serving the LGBTQ+ community receive the support they deserve. I’m committed to making sure these groups are funded equitably, strengthening our city’s cultural fabric, and amplifying LGBTQ+ voices. By doing so, we ensure that San Francisco remains a beacon of creativity and pride.

Ending LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness

Recent surveys show that 38% of our homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+. When I led Tipping Point Community, we worked with Larkin Street Youth Services to develop programs for these young people. As mayor, I will build on this work, focusing on housing, healthcare, education, and job opportunities, with the goal of bringing LGBTQ+ youth homelessness down to zero.

Expanding HIV/AIDS Prevention and Support

San Francisco was a beacon of hope during the AIDS crisis, and we must continue that legacy. I will allocate significant resources toward HIV/AIDS prevention and care, especially for long-term survivors. I’ll also support the city’s Getting to Zero campaign to end new infections, particularly in communities of color.

Strengthening Mental Health Support

LGBTQ+ individuals face unique mental health challenges. I’ll prioritize programs that provide targeted mental health services and train healthcare providers to offer compassionate, competent care to our LGBTQ+ community. Mental health support is not just a service; it’s a lifeline for many, and we must ensure these resources are accessible to all.

Affordable Housing for LGBTQ+ Seniors

Visiting Openhouse opened my eyes to the housing needs of LGBTQ+ seniors. We need more affordable housing, and I’ll streamline the city’s bureaucracy to get it done. Our seniors should age with dignity, security, and community. Housing is fundamental to the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ seniors who often face isolation and financial insecurity.

Removing Prop 8 Once and For All

Prop 8’s ban on same-sex marriage still exists in our state constitution. This November, we have the chance to remove this stain from our laws. I stand firmly with the effort to strike it down and reaffirm our commitment to marriage equality. Vote yes on 3. San Francisco must remain a city that leads the way on LGBTQ+ rights. As your mayor, I’ll ensure the community’s progress continues—not just in words, but in action. Together, we can create a future where every LGBTQ+ San Franciscan feels safe, supported, and proud. Learn more about my vision at https://daniellurie.com/priorities/lgbtq/ Daniel Lurie is the Founder and former CEO of Tipping Point Community. https://daniellurie.com/

ELECTION 2024

A Mayor With a Queer Agenda

By Supervisor Aaron Peskin

Recently I stood with the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club and a veritable rainbow of queer activists, trailblazing leaders, and young community organizers in support of my campaign for mayor and its message of hope and progress. One of the messages that stood out to me was allyship, and the need for politicians to be better allies to the queer community during tumultuous times.

community is facing diffi-

On that day in 2013, Harris said, in part, “It is gratifying to see the highest court in the land deliver an across-theSan Francisco’s history of queer liberation, where LGBTQ individuals have taken on tough fights, organized and won, has always made me proud to call this city home. I am also proud of my long track record of standing up for gay rights, including officiating the first legal same-sex marriage in San Francisco on June 17, 2008, and appointing one of the city’s first trans commissioners.

cult and dark times. San Francisco must be a beacon of light and lead the national effort to stand up and fight back against these far-right assaults on LGBTQ rights and queer people. And that means starting at home with a real queer agenda that will make San Francisco a safe and affordable haven for those who need it most.

As mayor, I will not only continue to carry Harvey Milk’s torch but also fan its flames to reach even more in our queer community and beyond. Throughout my time in City Hall, I have already been a voice for LGBTQ causes that go beyond just keeping nightclubs and bars open. Here is my Queer Agenda for San Francisco:

Public Safety: Much like Jane Warner and her hard-fought patrol special, community policing has always been central to my public safety work. In North Beach and Chinatown, I implemented a plan for real community policing, with bi-fluent and culturally competent officers who come from the community and know the shopkeepers and residents by name. It not only keeps people safe; it also makes them feel safe. As mayor, I will expand this homegrown model of community policing to every neighborhood in San Francisco, ensuring that the SoMa, Castro, and Tenderloin all have foot-patrol officers that know the unique communities and characters that make San Francisco so special. I have proposed a College to Community Policing recruitment plan with forgivable student loans to make sure we are attracting officers to serve in the communities they come from.

End Homelessness for the LGBTQ Community: 28% of the 8,300 people who are homeless in San Francisco identify as queer. We need to end homelessness for the LGBTQ community, but empty tough talk and cruel sweeps only move homeless people from one neighborhood to the next. I am the only candidate for mayor with a comprehensive homeless plan, “From Crisis to Care,”

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Rink Throwback: Kamala Harris

Mayoral Debates

In 2008, as the 27th District Attorney of San Francisco, Kamala Harris attended an event at the San Francisco LGBT Center supporting marriage equality. Among those standing behind her is, at the far left, San Francisco Bay Times columnist John Lewis. He and his husband Stuart Gaffney previously wrote in the Bay Times about Harris’ longstanding support for the LGBTQ+ community and marriage equality.

2008 was a pivotal year in the marriage equality movement. From June 16 to November 5 of that year—a period of 4 months and 20 days—the State of California first issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples. This was as a result of the Supreme Court of California finding that barring same-sex couples from marriage violated the state’s Constitution. The passage of Proposition 8 halted the issuance of the licenses. They were reinstated on June 26, 2013.

board victory for equality and justice today. Edith Windsor deserved to have her marriage recognized by the United States, and today’s decision is a historic step forward in the fight for civil rights for same-sex couples across this country.”

Windsor, who died in 2017, was the lead plaintiff in the case United States v. Windsor, which overturned Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act and was a landmark legal victory in the same-sex marriage movement in the U.S. Same-sex marriage became legal nationwide on June 26, 2015, after a Supreme Court ruling in another high-profile case: Obergefell v. Hodges. Lewis and Gaffney—and Harris—fought for U.S. marriage equality all those years, never wavering in their desire for social justice. Lewis and Gaffney still fight for marriage equality rights worldwide.

With over 500 anti-LGBTQ pieces of legislation being pushed by hard-right forces nationwide, the LGBTQ

New York Times Bureau Chief Heather Knight and Manny Yekutiel of Manny’s moderated the first San Francisco Mayoral Debate held on Wednesday, June 12, at the Sydney Goldstein Theater. Candidates included Mayor London Breed, Mark Farrell, Daniel Lurie, and Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí.

On Thursday, July 18, a lively debate, organized by the San Francisco Firefighters Local 798, was held at the union hall on Newhall Street. Moderated by former San Francisco Chronicle columnist Phil Matier, the discussion included issues such as homelessness, drug addiction, crime, downtown renewal, housing, and more. The union’s endorsement, announced in August, went to former mayor Mark Farrell.

The second Mayoral Debate in 2024, organized by the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee, was held at the University of California College of Law on Monday, June 17. Public safety emerged as one of the the top issues discussed among the five candidates attending. Moderated by KRON4’s Terisa Estacio. KTVU-TV’s Betty Yu reported from a watch party held in conjunction with the debate hosted by The San Francisco Standard

ELECTION 2024

This Ain’t No Fooling Around

6/26 and Beyond

Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis

We decided to tune in a few minutes early last Tuesday to watch the presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and Donald Trump and by so doing happened to catch the tail end of ABC News’ pre-debate coverage. We came in as ABC co-anchor Jonathon Karl was noting that the debate could be “perhaps the most consequential general election debate we have ever seen.”

He then hyped the drama that lay ahead:

“With the stakes so high, the presidential debate just moments away, we have the entire news division keeping an eye on everything ... . It’s all going to be happening right here. The debate now just 10 seconds away.”

Finally, trying to entice viewers to stay tuned after the actual debate ended, Karl reminded everyone that “we will be back with our post-game show as soon as it’s over.”

Post-game show?

We were taken aback. Did we hear it right? Had Karl just signaled to millions of viewers the national presidential debate was just a “game”?

This year’s presidential election, like every presidential election, has enormous realworld consequences for all Americans, especially those most in need, and for billions of people around the world. To quote some earlier “Talking Heads” before Karl’s time: “This ain’t no party. This ain’t no disco. This ain’t no fooling around.” It’s certainly not a game.

We first assumed that Karl had made an embarrassingly revealing slip of the tongue, but in reading post-debate online coverage, we were disturbed to see such reputable news sources as NPR and The Guardian employing the same “pre-game” and “postgame” vocabulary. Had equating the presidential debate to a football game become normalized in mainstream news outlets? Was it simply the latest example of mainstream media’s decades-long elevation of coverage of the election “horse race” over

reporting the candidates’ actual positions on substantive issues?

The use of football in presidential politics is nothing new. For example, Republican Presidents Nixon and Reagan strategically exploited their very different connections to the game. This year’s Democratic ticket has taken every opportunity possible to highlight Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz’s tenure and persona as an assistant high school football coach, with Harris proclaiming him “Coach Walz” at their first joint campaign appearance. Walz himself has said that football “isn’t that much different” from politics.

And in Walz’s first national address, which took place at last month’s Democratic National Convention, he doubled down on the metaphor, boasting, “I haven’t given a lot of big speeches like this, but I have given a lot of pep talks.” He concluded: “Let me finish with this, team. It’s the fourth quarter. We’re down a field goal, but we’re on offense and we got the ball,” urging supporters “to get in the trenches and do the blocking and tackling.”

For Trump, the apt sports metaphor would not be football, but the fictional gladiator universe of World Wrestling Entertainment’s SmackDown television show. We had generally been aware of the brutality of

staged “professional wrestling,” but several weeks ago at the gym we were on the elliptical machines when we looked up and saw the spectacle of SmackDown for the first time on the large TV screen in front of us. Elaborately costumed heroes and villains beat their chests and exchanged touts and taunts before they sadistically attacked each other. Bodies flew through the air as the crowd cheered and jeered wildly.

It suddenly dawned on us. Donald Trump—with all his shouting, taunting, name-calling, outlandish claims, baseless attacks, and bravado—thinks of himself as the political version of a SmackDown character. He even invokes the fictional villain Hannibal Lecter as if he were real.

And sometimes his followers engage in actual violence strikingly similar to the staged SmackDown combat, such as when thousands of Trump adherents felt free to kill Capitol police officers and engage in other acts of terror as they stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. One of the most visible leaders was a bare-chested painted and tattooed man, known as “Yellowstone Wolf” and “QAnon Shaman” (among other names), who sported a racoon headdress with large horns coming out from his head. He could have come

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Wagging the Dog

My favorite political satire is the 1997 movie Wag the Dog, in which political operatives attempt to deflect attention from their candidate’s potential sex scandal by teaming up with a Hollywood producer, distracting the press by creating a fictional war in Albania. Sounds absurd, right? Yet look at how the controversies-du-jour eat up the media cycles, distracting voters from more substantial issues. While the resulting memes and online snark can be fun, let us not lose track of the real issues at hand. We have elections looming, with candidates to vet, propositions to study, and votes to cast. Let’s keep our eyes on the prize, folks, and not let the tail wag the dog.

The End of an Era: AIDS LifeCycle Back in the 1980s, when AIDS was first rag-

ing through our communities, the government response was too slow, and too little. So, people rose up and took matters into their own hands. People organized, finding ways to take care of their loved ones and neighbors. They fed them, raised money to pay their rent, walked their pets, helped them with their legal matters, cleaned their homes, held their hands, and comforted them in their time of need. Many of these grassroots efforts grew into nonprofit organizations. Some of those organizations are still with us today.

When those grassroots efforts began, and when those nonprofit organizations were started, none of us could have envisioned that we would still need to be doing this forty years later. Over the years, some of those nonprofits have consolidated with organizations with similar missions to streamline services and save on costs. Some have adapted and changed to meet the changing needs of their clientele. And others have simply closed their doors.

As the world of HIV/AIDS has changed, so has the ecosystem of fundraising for this cause. Raising funds from both corporate sponsors and from individuals gets harder each year, while the costs of producing big fundraising events has skyrocketed. Hard decisions have had to be made.

The news that the San Francisco AIDS Foundation (SFAF) and the Los Angeles LGBT Center will end their popular co-sponsored fundraising event, AIDS LifeCycle, with a final ride in June 2025 hit

hard last week. The 2025 ride will celebrate the Ride’s more than 30 years, and the more than $300 million its participants have raised for the HIV services of the two organizations. New ways to raise the needed funds must and will be found.

But the AIDS LifeCycle has always been about so much more than just raising money. The event has created a passionate community of participants—riders, trainers, volunteers, and roadies—whose lives have been forever changed by the experience. People in towns along the route have been changed, becoming part of the AIDS LifeCycle family. Cherished traditions and customs have developed throughout the decades, and lifelong bonds have been established.

Over the next few months, we will all learn more about the future plans for the SFAF and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. But in the meantime, save room on your calendar for next June. You will not want to miss this final AIDS LifeCycle.

ing holes meaningful to the Leather community, and will conclude at Eagle Plaza by 3 pm for the raising of the Leather flag, and the Eagle’s Leather Pride Fest. LeatherWalk is raising money for the District’s Leather Legacy Landmarks sidewalk plaques initiative, with plans to install commemorative plaques at 77 locations honoring SoMa businesses that started serving the community as far back as the 1960s. To register: https://tinyurl.com/LLCDW24

LeatherWalk, and a Dedication

The Leather & LGBTQ Cultural District is holding its annual LeatherWalk 2024 on Sunday, September 22. Billed as a fundraiser, celebration, and march for visibility, this year’s event will begin on the Polk Street steps of San Francisco’s City Hall at 11 am, will stop at a variety of locations and water-

LeatherWalk is also the kickoff to Leather Week, which culminates in the Folsom Street Fair. The District will be holding a special ceremony on Tuesday, September 24, at 6 pm, to unveil an official plaque honoring Rachele Sullivan, a longtime straight ally and leatherwoman who died in 2022. She helped found the Cultural District, sat on the board of Folsom Street, and was also prominent in SoMa’s Filipino community. Her plaque will be unveiled in Eagle Plaza at 398 12th Street.

Who Is a Long-Term Survivor? New Government Definitions

Words matter, and in the world of public health and government programs, precise definitions can make all the difference in funding and care.

An excellent new article by Hank Trout in

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In Case You Missed It

Joanie Juster

AIDS/LifeCycle 2025 Will Be the Last

On Tuesday, September 11, 2024, in a virtual town hall for participants and supporters, San Francisco AIDS Foundation’s Dr. Tyler Termeer and Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Joe Hollander announced that the 2025 AIDS LifeCycle ride will be the last. The two organizations are the beneficiaries of the annual ride.

With ridership in 2024 having fallen to 1,400, down from the 2,500 riders in 2022 cited as a post-COVID surge, Termeer acknowledged that the growing costs to produce the annual event, a 545-mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles, have become prohibitive.

Since its beginning in 1994, the AIDS LifeCycle has raised more than $300 million for HIV and AIDS-related services and raised awareness about the ongoing epidemic and need for continuing HIV testing, prevention education, care, and more. Cyclists, roadies, and organizers spend 7 days on the ride route from San Francisco to Los Angeles each year in June.

For 2025, Termeer, who is a 21-time rider, predicts the event will reach capacity as many lapsed riders step up to participate in the final ride.

The San Francisco Bay Times supports the fundraising efforts of roadie Terry Asten Bennett of Cliff’s Variety who serves as President of the Castro Merchants Association. Bennett has raised more than $10,000 annually. Learn more about her story and help with her fundraising: https://bit.ly/4e75Jy2

For more information about AIDS/LifeCycle and to sign up for the 2025 ride: https://giving.aidslifecycle.org/

PHOTO BY RINK

Sister Roma with AIDS LifeCycle volunteer Jon from San Jose, Harvey Milk Day at Jane Warner Plaza (2013)

Kate Kendell, Half Way to LA! (2013)

Deb Kinney and Pam Schmitz (2019)

Team Leprechaun (2019)

Richard Bennett (2019)

Terry Asten Bennett, Roadie Captain (2023)

LifeCycle Rider (2023)

Tent Volunteers (2023)

Deb Kinney, Pam Schmitz and a friend, Half Way to LA! (2019)

Volunteer Brian from San Jose, Harvey Milk Day @ Jane Warner Plaza (2013) Red Dress Day (2023)

Otter Pop Stop (2014)

Potential Tax Changes on the Horizon You Should Be Aware Of

Money Matters

Brandon Miller

With an election right around the corner, taxes may be a central issue on the campaign trail. With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) set to expire in a year and a half, candidates are being pressed on their positions regarding the future of U.S. tax policy. Let’s break it down.

Capital Gains Tax Increases

One of the most significant proposals being discussed is an increase in the capital gains tax rate. Currently, the highest capital gains tax rate is 20%, which many argue favors the wealthy, who own most of the capital assets like stocks and real estate. Many Democrats propose increasing this rate to 39.6% for

individuals earning over $1 million annually, aligning it with the top marginal income tax rate that existed before the TCJA, though Kamala Harris has suggested the max under her administration would be 28%.

However, the potential increase in the capital gains tax rate doesn’t tell the whole story. Currently, an additional 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) applies to many taxpayers, effectively raising the capital gains tax to 23.8%. Under the aforementioned proposal, this NIIT would also apply on top of the proposed 39.6% rate, along with a proposed 1.2% additional Medicare tax, potentially bringing the total capital gains tax rate to as high as 44.6%.

Step-Up in Basis Elimination

Another contentious proposal is the elimination of the step-up in basis at death. The current step-up in basis rule allows heirs to reset the value of inherited assets to the market value at the time of the original owner’s death, significantly reducing potential capital gains taxes. A plan to eliminate this provision is a move that would have significant implications for estate planning and investments. Although similar policies exist in other countries, such as Canada, past attempts to eliminate the step-up in basis in the U.S. have failed. Given the strong opposition from various interest groups and even within the

(continued on page 20)

Power of Attorney: Your Guardian Angel in Case of Need

Trust Essentials

Jay Greene, Esq., CPA

Imagine this: You’re enjoying a well-deserved vacation, completely relaxed, when an unexpected accident leaves you unable to make decisions for yourself. Or perhaps you’re diagnosed with a condition that gradually impairs your cognitive abilities. Who would handle your finances, pay your bills, or make crucial healthcare decisions?

This is where a Power of Attorney (POA) becomes your guardian angel. A POA is a legal document that authorizes someone you trust to act on your behalf when you’re unable to do so. It’s like appointing a trusted friend or family member as your temporary representative.

Why Is a Power of Attorney Important?

Without a POA, your loved ones might face significant challenges if you become incapacitated. They could be entangled in legal proceedings, such as guardianship, which can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive. A POA streamlines the process, ensuring your wishes are followed and your affairs are managed smoothly.

Types of Power of Attorney

There are two primary types of POA:

• Financial Power of Attorney: This grants someone the authority to handle your financial matters, such as paying bills, managing investments, and signing legal documents.

• Healthcare Power of Attorney (Healthcare Proxy): This allows someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.

It’s essential to choose someone you trust implicitly for both roles. Consider their financial acumen, decision-making abilities, and your comfort level with them handling sensitive information.

Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones

A POA offers several benefits:

• peace of mind: knowing your affairs

(continued on page 14)

Message from Leadership

By Nancy Geenen,

In this upcoming presidential election, each of us must be proactive in our efforts to further the protections of the LGBTQ+ community, as entrepreneurs, employees, consumers, and valued members of the American democracy.

The headlines often highlight those handful of companies that are more focused on adverse economic and political pressure than about their own employees and diverse customer base. These companies are canceling or pulling back on their DEI efforts as a response to a politically narrow constituency that is

Volunteer and Vote

J.D.

well-versed in social media exploitation and very well-funded to achieve their goals. That constituency has worked hard to make diversity a “dirty” word and poses a direct threat to the protections our community enjoys, both in the workplace and at home.

What the headlines ignore is the plethora of companies that continue to support DEI efforts to increase inclusion and to detox biased systemic policies that appear neutral on their face and are inequitable in their application. We are not likely to see a mass dismantling of DEI initiatives. Relying on research from Harvard, McKinsey, Deloitte, and Accenture, many continue to stay the course

on their DEI efforts. The data demonstrates that DEI initiatives directly and indirectly affect performance, productivity, and profitability.

Further, many of these studies point out that consumers prefer brands that have a robust DEI program. Many of the leading companies, those that value the diversity of lived experiences and identities, are measuring their efforts, and using these metrics as part of the manager performance evaluations.

As a community, we must be proactive and engage with our diverse supplier advocates to ask how we can work together to demonstrate

GGBA Member Spotlight Body Language and Executive Presence: Develop the Same Techniques Kamala

The presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris on September 10, 2024, is now in the history books. Immediately thereafter, political insiders were saying, “If you want to know who won the debate, who commanded the stage, then watch it with the sound off. The body language of each of them said it all.”

A quick Google search will show many experts say 70%–93% of communication is non-verbal. The primary data source for many of these articles is the work of Dr. Albert Mehrabian, and his “7-38-55 Rule” from his 1971 book Silent Messages. Dr. Mehrabian’s rule states:

• 7% of communication is the words we say;

• 38% is how we say them (tonality, rhythm, modulation, inflection, etc.);

• 55% is body language;

• and, in short, what we see overrides what we hear.

that diversity is good business.

Volunteer – 3 Ways to Help

1. Register to vote and help others register.

2. Canvasing – phone bank and direct mail.

3. Create a voting plan with your friends to get to the polls!

And vote by absentee, early, or on election day. Be counted.

Nancy Geenen is the Acting President of the Golden Gate Business Association. She is also the Principal and Chief Executive Officer at Flexibility

https://www.flexability.com/

Harris Used to Win the Presidential Debate

By Gina Grahame

Using this rule, and politics aside, it’s easy to say that, yes, Vice President Harris won the debate and Donald Trump lost. Vice President Harris commanded the stage from the opening moment as she walked tall and with purpose across the stage to shake the former president’s hand. Trump, by comparison, walked out slowly, slightly hunched, and stopped at his podium.

In her rallies, Vice President Harris has repeatedly said, “If you got something to say, then say it to my face.” Yet former president Trump would not look at her, never once making eye contact; even as she attacked his judgement, his temperament, and even his ability to entertain supporters at his own rallies.

The “faces of Kamala” meme that has gone

viral since the debate further shows her command as she looks to the former president in disbelief, incredulity, determination, ownership, and even pity at his rambling, spiraling, demonstratively false statements.

Vice President Harris’ focus moved between Trump and us (the camera). Former president Trump stared only at the moderators, his head tilted slightly down, looking through the upper part of his eyes, in an attempted power play. He held onto the podium, hunched slightly, for most of the night. His pursed “duck lips” and fake smile were attempts at masking the anger and contempt he felt toward her and her comments. His repeated sniffs were meant to give him a quick moment to pull another outlandish accusation out of the air. All of this shows the importance of knowing what your body is communicating while you are talking and listening.

In my work as an executive communication coach, I regularly see people whose body lan-

guage stands in direct contrast to what they are saying. Reading an individual’s body language isn’t about using a single gesture to determine fact or fiction; rather, it’s about noting each inconsistency to create a fuller picture of what the person is really communicating.

Recently, one of the 16 emerging leaders in a corporate team training on “executive presence and influence” was deaf. During the exercise portion of the workshop, each person stands at the front of the room and gives a short speech, after which I ask the group, “Do you believe them? Are you ready to follow their leadership?” This time, most of the class repeatedly said “yes” for each person. But the individual who was deaf said “no” every time, because they weren’t listening; they were only watching—watching the person from the moment they stood up and started walking toward the front of the room, through when the person finished speaking. This clever observer would notice the lack of eye contact, the swaying on their feet, the odd hand gesture, the lack of emotion on their face, the excessive blinking, or the out of place head shake. You may say statements with confidence, but one’s nervousness, personal insecurity, and uncertainty with the content can often shine through in their body language.

To help you develop your own positive body language, here’s one of my “go to” exercises you can do in just 5 minutes a week, in the privacy of your home:

1. Put your cell phone on a tripod and record in video mode to make a video.

2. Go to a random question generator site, of which there are many, such as: https://bit.ly/4gu0zxI https://randomquestionmaker.com/ https://questionsgenerator.com/

3. Imagine you’re speaking with someone specific, such as a boss, a client, a col-

league, an underling, or an investor. If you don’t imagine someone specific and you’re thinking, “I’m talking to my phone,” your vocal pattern will change.

4. Answer the random question; 30–45 seconds is enough. If the question doesn’t promote a thoughtful answer, simply add, “And why?” to the question.

5. Study the playback in 3 distinct ways: a. 1st playback - audio only. Turn the screen away and just listen. b. 2nd playback - video only. Turn the volume down and just watch. c. 3rd playback - audio and video together.

6. Amplifier: In the next session or with the next question, change up your audience or your position (standing versus sitting) and see how your body language changes.

In just 5 minutes you can record and review a single question and answer. Do this, and your ability to effectively communicate on your feet will improve. Do this, and your ability to handle Q&A in your next presentation will improve. Do this, and your ability to have influence on your audience, be it one person or one thousand, will improve.

Pro Tip!

Try watching a movie or TV show with the sound off; you’ll be surprised at how easily it is to follow the story without hearing a single word of dialogue—all while developing your own awareness of the body language of others.

Gina Grahame, a GGBA member since 2015, has helped over 2,000 Googlers to develop their own unique voice and leadership style through her 1:1 coaching, workshops, and lectures. She is also an adjunct lecturer and communication coach at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. She is the Founder of Authentaceous Leadership. www.Authentacious.com

MA Ed.,

San Francisco Man Helps Mother Navigate New Life With Dementia

By Jennifer Tinkelenberg

Frank, a San Francisco resident, is a caregiver for his mother Gundi, who lives on the other side of the world in Berlin, Germany. Through the help of technology and a very supportive local community near his mom, Frank is able to care for her long distance. Now Frank is looking for his caregiving community in San Francisco, which he hopes to find this fall at the 2024 San Francisco Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, October 19 ( https://bit.ly/3MPrFkY ).

Saving a Life

Gundi was raised by a single mother in Germany after World War II. An only child, Gundi was afraid of everything and was constantly bullied. As a young woman, she met a man whom she thought she might love and got engaged. Just before the wedding, she decided she didn’t want to get married. Her mother informed her that not getting married wasn’t an option and the couple were wed.

“My mum never learned how to love herself,” said Frank. “When I was a kid [my parents] had a love/hate relationship. [My] connection [with her] was always easy, I always laughed and smiled, and my mother put all the love in me. My mother saved my life, she took me away from my father. My father wanted me to not be a gay teen. He would have talked me into hating myself.”

Finding the Love

In 2016, Frank moved away from Germany

to San Francisco. There he became a tour guide for German-speaking tourists. San Francisco is also where Frank met his partner, Brent. One day, after Frank got off the phone with his mother, Brent commented that Frank was screaming at his mother and how angry Frank sounded.

Frank was able to take a step back and realize that Brent was right. From then on, Frank changed the way he connected with his mother. He started asking her questions about her life. Frank said, “I suddenly listened to her, I took her as a real woman with a story and background, not just my mom.”

For the next three years, Frank did everything he could to bring love into his mother’s life.

“I taught my mother love in every way possible and I saw it was working,” he said. “She let go of the anger for my father, she let go of the anger of her life. She had never traveled. I took her everywhere. I took her to New York; I took her Hawaii; I went with her to Disneyland. For three years, I showed her the world.”

In 2020, Gundi was diagnosed with cancer, and then in 2021 she received a dementia diagnosis as well. Frank reflected, “Once the hate was gone and there was a huge corner not filled; love was there and love cannot fill everything and suddenly the dementia filled that place.”

A Caregiving Community

Frank is the primary caregiver for his mother despite living half a world away. He has an

amazing support system of friends who have become family. One friend in particular, Inge, does the bulk of the caregiving for Gundi and communicates her needs to Frank in his absence. In addition to Inge and other friends who check on his mom regularly, Frank has also set up a camera system in his mother’s house. Thanks to the time difference, as Frank is ending his day, Gundi is just waking up. He wishes her a good morning as she starts her day. Each morning is filled with caregivers coming to get her ready for the day and take her places, such as adult daycare.

Then, as Gundi’s day comes to an end, Frank’s day is just beginning. While he and Brent drink their morning coffee, they’re able to virtually tuck Gundi into bed each night.

Dancing With Mom

Now that Gundi is in the later stages of the disease, Frank travels to Berlin every three months. “You can’t get back that time,” said Frank. “I want to see her, it’s very important to me. [I used to] ask her about her childhood, but she can’t answer [those questions] anymore. Now I’m connecting with her through ABBA [the music group]. I dance with her all the time.

“We dance and we laugh and [we tell] dirty jokes. Our biggest connection is humor. Sometimes I feel like we’re really in the later stages, every time [I leave] Germany I have to say goodbye to another version of her. [But] whenever there is humor and music it’s like, oh, there’s my mother.”

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

In 2024, Brent and Frank attended a networking event where the Senior Director for Walk to End Alzheimer’s - San Francisco was in attendance. Brent, who had been introduced to the organization a year before, thought Frank might like to connect with the Alzheimer’s Association® and introduced him to the Senior Director. This was Frank’s first connection to the organization and to learning about Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease.

Finding His Community

Frank and Brent signed up for Team Aviva

In-Home Care ( https://bit.ly/4d6C2f1 ) and are looking forward to their first Walk. “I have a support network in Germany but I don’t have one in America,” said Frank. “The most important thing is having a community and [I’m looking forward to] getting to know other people who have friends who have dementia. A support network is the most important thing. I love learning about people’s stories; we can only learn from each other.”

Be Patient

Alzheimer’s caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress. It can be overwhelming to take care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, but too much stress can be harmful to both of you.

Frank remembers when he first found out about his mother’s diagnosis. He went through a range of thoughts and emotions:

• fear;

• not knowing how to help his mom;

• wanting to know everything;

• wanting to be perfect;

• feeling like he was the only person who could help his mom;

• convinced he was doing everything wrong;

• feeling overwhelmed and wanting to quit.

“Be so patient with yourself and [the person living with the disease],” said Frank. “You cannot control your emotions. You can get therapy; you can get educated; find a support group; get advice; go to a group you can talk to. Surround yourself with knowledge and with what is possible right now.”

Frank not only considers himself a tour guide for tourists but also now, for his mother, navigating her through her new life. “It’s like

(continued on page 14)

Dr. Marcy Adelman oversees the A ging in Community column. For her summary of current LGBT senior challenges and opportunities, please go to: http://sfbaytimes.com/challenges-and-opportunties/

Alegre Home Care is proud to support Dr. Marcy Adelman’s Aging in Community column in the San Francisco Bay Times

Gundi with his mom at Alamo Square Park

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Luis Zamora Becomes First Openly Gay Latino Trustee for City College

Mayor Breed on September 10, 2024, swore in Luis Zamora to serve on the City College Board of Trustees.

Zamora is currently the Director of Community Relations and Executive Affairs for the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office and an active board member for many San Francisco community organizations.

As a new board member, he fills the vacancy left by former trustee Murrell Green, who resigned for personal reasons and had not filed to run for reelection to the seat. Zamora will serve the remaining four months of Green’s term, which expires in January.

Zamora is a first-generation college graduate with an associate degree in liberal arts from Santiago Canyon College. He is also the first in his family to earn a higher education degree and the first openly gay Latino Trustee City College of San Francisco (CCSF) has ever had.

TINKELENBERG (continued from pg 12)

“Luis is a dedicated public servant who has worked at both the local and state levels, and I believe his voice and experience will be an asset to City College,” said Mayor Breed. “Through his personal experience attending community college, he understands how critical that pathway is to creating opportunities for future generations, and through his work he has demonstrated a commitment to strengthening and supporting public institutions. I believe he will bring a critical voice for accountability and stability to help guide City College through this crucial period.”

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve on the City College Board of Trustees,” said Zamora. “Growing up, I was the first in my family to get a higher education degree. It’s incredibly meaningful to have a chance to give back and strengthen City College so that future generations of San Franciscans can continue to benefit from local, affordable higher education.”

Prior to joining the City Attorney’s Office, Zamora was District Director for then Assemblymember David Chiu, representing San Francisco’s 17th Assembly District for Eastern San Francisco. Zamora also formerly served as an Immigrants Rights Commissioner for the City and County of San Francisco.

Zamora also worked for many years with the nation’s top 100 law firms as an administrative account manager with an emphasis on

GREENE (continued from pg 10)

facilities management overseeing day-to-day operations and managing multi-million-dollar budgets.

In addition to his work in public service, Zamora has been an active member in the San Francisco community, having served on the Board of Directors for Openhouse SF, the Golden Gate Business Association, and as former President of the San Francisco International Facilities Management Association. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club. He currently resides in the Duboce Triangle neighborhood.

“Luis has been an incredible force for good in both my former Assembly district and now in the City Attorney’s Office,” said City Attorney Chiu. “I’ve seen firsthand his work bringing people together to find consensus and common ground. He has the heart and mind of a public servant, and I’m excited to see him take on the task of guiding City College through its current challenges to new heights.”

https://bit.ly/3XLcUpI

Alice and Wonderland. Your parent is now in Wonderland,” said Frank. “Think of yourself as the gatekeeper and helping your loved one guide through this land. It can be wonderful, scary, and magical. It can leave you in tears and laughter [when you] see the magic in everyday life. That’s what [people living with dementia] mostly react to; magic, music, and love.”

For more information on caregiving or to find an education program or support group, call the Alzheimer’s Association’s free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900

You can join Frank and Brent’s team, Team Aviva In-Home Care ( https://bit.ly/4d6C2f1 ) or start your own team for Walk to End Alzheimer’s in San Francisco. This year’s Walk will take place on October 19, 2024, at Pier 27 on The Embarcadero. For those reading this who are not in or near San Francisco, you can find a Walk near you by visiting https://bit.ly/3Zsszvp

Jennifer Tinkelenberg is a Senior Communications Specialist at the Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California and Northern Nevada.

are in capable hands can reduce stress for both you and your loved ones;

• efficiency: a designated agent can handle financial and healthcare matters promptly, avoiding delays and potential complications;

• avoids guardianship: a POA can help prevent the need for a courtappointed guardian, saving time, money, and emotional distress.

The Importance of Legal Counsel

Creating a Power of Attorney is a crucial legal matter. Consulting with an estate planning attorney ensures your document is comprehensive, legally sound, and tailored to your specific needs. An attorney can also guide you in choosing the right person as your agent and addressing potential complexities.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect yourself and your loved ones by creating a Power of Attorney today.

Choose to secure your legacy, protect your loved ones, and gain peace of mind.

Contact us at obed@greenelawfirm.com or call us at 415-905-0215 to schedule your consultation. Your future deserves the attention to detail and care that you have established for your life.

Statements In Compliance with California Rules of Professional Conduct: The materials in this article have been prepared by Attorney Jay Greene for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. This information does not create an attorney-client relationship. Individuals should consult with an estate planning and elder law attorney for up-to-date information for their individual plans.

Jay Greene, Attorney, CPA, is the founder of Greene Estate, Probate, & Elder Law Firm based in San Francisco, and is focused on helping LGBT individuals, couples, and families plan for their future, protect their assets, and preserve their wealth. For more information and to schedule an assessment, visit: https://assetprotectionbayarea.com/

Luis Zamora with Vice President Kamala Harris

Luis Zamora with SF City Attorney David Chiu

GLBT Fortnight in Review

By Ann Rostow

Still Up for Debate

I know it’s been ten days or so, but I’m only now just coming down off my debate victory high. I was nervous that whole day, having experienced the trauma of Biden’s self-destruction just a few weeks earlier. Subsequently, Harris had been surging, but was it all too good to be true? It felt as if even a satisfactory or good performance would not be enough to sustain her momentum. But then came the crucible itself. Not only did Harris win the debate, not only did she do extremely well, but she was brilliant and Trump was even worse than usual. My wife and I luxuriated in the post-debate analysis and watched MSNBC nonstop for several days in a row. We always record Nicolle and Stephanie, but we were glued to live television like 20th century children on a Saturday morning. Gradually, however, our frustrations have begun to rise from below the surface.

We are tired of the pet-eating stories and annoyed that Vance and Trump are still being allowed to claim a) that the immigrants in Springfield are illegal, and b) that some people somewhere have actual proof that dangerous Black strangers who don’t really belong in Smallville, Ohio, are killing neighborhood dogs and cats. But Hello, Mainstream Media! This is not a “he said, she said” story. It’s total nonsense!

Further, it’s irritating that Trump is not being called out for two extraordinary debate remarks: first, his refusal to say whether or

not he wants Ukraine to win the war, and second, his reference to “the other side” during his discussion of January 6. “The other side,” in this case, was the Capitol Police and members of Congress. Why did these outrageous statements get swept under the rug while we all obsessed on the pets?

And recently comes news of this crazy guy outside Trump’s golf course. It doesn’t seem as if this incident put Trump in any danger, considering the guy never took a shot, had no line of sight position on Trump, and never got within 500 meters of the ex-president. But it’s certainly a distraction and it allows the Trump campaign to drift further away from his debate fiasco and even edge back into victimhood.

Finally, I’m sobering up because I’ve been hoping for some serious polling gaps. Five to ten point leads in the Blue Wall states. Healthy leads in the other swing states. Possible leads in a few of these long shots. Come on, pollsters!

Instead, we’re seeing a point or two turn in our favor. Good news, I guess, but still within the margin of error. Calculating the outcome if polls underestimate Trump’s appeal is not recommended for the faint of heart. The number of Republicans who somehow think Trump will be better than Harris for the economy is extraordinary. Many of these people believe the stock market has dropped under Biden and we’ve been through a recession. Oh, and they think crime is up. Can they not read a chart, google a statistic, check

historical data? Even Vance seemed unaware that the United States has the strongest economy in the world—now, not in some Trumpy future.

As for Trump’s tariffs on foreign imports, either American consumers of those imports will pay higher prices, or the importing companies will eat some of the costs. It’s not clear where Trump gets the idea that foreign countries will send money to the United States if tariffs are imposed because that’s not how tariffs work. No, I’m not an economist. But you don’t have to be an economist to figure this out. You just have to read what economists say or listen to their remarks and recognize that the experts make sense and Trump does not.

I could go on, but you get the idea. We’re still in the fun house. The mirrors are still distorting reality but we have to keep moving towards the exit.

Are You Ready?

At least football season is back. Do you remember when Chief’s kicker Harrison Butker told a graduating class that women should aim to be wives and mothers? I think I imagined that the Chiefs, my favorite team, would drop the guy, but that did not happen. Instead, everyone said that Butker was a good teammate and that politics was not discussed in the locker room.

Um, okay, whatever. I am ashamed to report that I quickly abandoned my feminist outrage, left my politics in the parking lot,

and was rooting for Butker as he kicked a fifty-something yarder to put Kansas City on top of the Bengals on Sunday. Go, Harrison!

I was also not aware that ex-Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins gave an interview with someone from Focus on the Family last year, and although the subject of GLBT people didn’t come up, we’re guessing that he’s not a fan. It’s a good thing I was not aware of that walk on the wild side when I faithfully supported the Vikings all last year. Happily, he moved to the Atlanta Falcons, so I can still back Minnesota out of loyal friendship and also these days (Oh! Hold my beer, my politics are back!) out of solidarity with our next Vice President.

Don’t worry, dear Readers. The Forty Niners are my second favorite team, but I married a Kansan, as you may recall, so the Chiefs come first. Plus, Taylor and Travis!

Finally, in NCAA news, I see here that Donald Trump has suggested that he might attend the Alabama Georgia game on September 28. I’m sure the Secret Service loves that idea. I’m guessing they’ll ask him not to do this, and I’m guessing he might just defy them much as he defied them on the matter of playing golf in public. Because as long as he’s not hurt, he likes it when people take pot shots at him or roam too close, much as he liked being indicted earlier this year. It makes him the center of attention and lets him strut around with a heroic posture.

(continued on page 22)

Gilbert Baker’s Rainbow Flag Gains City Landmark Status

Photos by Rink and Bill Wilson

San Francisco Mayor London Breed officially made the rainbow flag flying at Harvey Milk Plaza a city landmark in a signing, on Friday, September 13, 2024, held at the GLBT Historical Society Museum. The designation ensures that the original rainbow flag designed by Gilbert Baker is recognized as the official design and any suggested changes to it must be reviewed by the city’s Historic Preservation Commission.

In the final interviews with Baker before his death, with ABC7 News and the San Francisco Bay Times, Baker shared, “Pink is for sex and red for life, and orange for healing, yellow for sun, green for nature, turquoise for magic, blue for serenity, and purple for the spirit.”

The flag designed by Baker is now recognized internationally as a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride. In recent years, the original design has been modified to include additional colors to acknowledge Black, Brown, trans, and other identities.

Following the ceremony at the museum, civic and community leaders carried a new flag to Harvey Milk Plaza for the installation. The Castro Merchants Association oversaw the flag installation, as it does at other times when needed. As part of that effort, the association periodically holds community ceremonies to replace the flag, making sure that it is in good condition with its vibrant colors evident in the Castro for all to see year-round.

Disco for Democracy

On Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the venue SVN West in downtown San Francisco, DJs Austin Millz, David Harness, and more were spinning tunes for democracy in three sets. Disco for Democracy, organized by Manny Yekutiel of Manny’s, included 360-degree sets featuring indoor dancing and outdoor roller skating on the rooftop.

In the final month of the election, Manny’s will be organizing phone banks, writing thousands of letters, and bussing people to Reno to get out the vote. Nevada, a neighboring state of California, has during recent weeks come within the margin of error for chances of turning it blue for Kamala Harris and delivering a key state in her campaign to be the next U.S. president.

Yekutiel shared, “Our plan is to bus at least 100 San Franciscans each weekend in the final month to Reno to knock on doors all weekend, doing our part. San Franciscans can make the difference but we’re going to have to work hard to do it. The funds raised from this iconic Disco for Democracy event will go straight to this effort—funding stamps for letters to Nevada voters, bus rides and motel stays and meals for folks coming to Reno to knock on doors, and to our weekly and then daily disco phone banks.”

http://www.welcometomannys.com @welcometomannys

Photos courtesy of Sister Roma

ABy Donna Sachet

t times, we are desperately short on events to cover, urgently seeking out events of interest to our readers. This is not one of those times. The past few weeks have kept us frantic, hurrying from event to event and we now report to you here some of the many recent happenings in our vibrant community.

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”

—Robert Brault

That long awaited pinnacle of San Francisco’s social calendar arrived on Friday, September 6, Opening Night of the SF Opera! We attended in the excellent company of Michael Loftis, decked out in white tie for the occasion. Starting in City Hall at the Bravo! pre-party, we chatted with Tony Bravo, Muriel Paul, Joma Petit, and others, while enjoying delicious dinner selections and chilled champagne in one of the Light Courts decorated with shimmering orbs, silver and white colors, and fragrant blossoms. At the appointed hour, we crossed Van Ness with hundreds of other well-heeled patrons to the Opera House, where opera benefactor and generous philanthropist Dede Wilsey greeted us as we entered. As always, glorious gowns and sumptuous jewelry abounded, as we caught up with John Newmeyer, Joel Goodrich, Heide Betz, Tom Horn, and more. Giuseppe Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera was the opening opera, featuring remarkable sets and lighting and incredible vocal performances. If one can get beyond the doubtful credibility of hidden identities and dated moral values, the drama and emotion of operas like this one are captivating. We were particularly impressed by the evocative visuals in Act II, conjuring up images of a graveyard and predicting the coming tragic finale.

After the performance, we returned to City Hall for another party, combining all the guests and revealing additional ravishing looks. We spent time with Salvador Tovar, Billy Repp, Christopher Wiseman, John Rosin, and others. After six hours of formality, we headed home with new memories of a truly grand San Francisco night and our profound gratitude for being included. Please support the rest of the season of the SF Opera, one of oldest and most revered in the nation, providing world-class entertainment of the highest order. We combined a couple of events on Thursday, September 12, starting at The Academy for Amplify!, the annual celebration of CHEER SF, where thousands of dollars raised at various events during the year were distributed to worthy local recipients. The mood was positive and upbeat, especially when the biggest check of the night for $30,000 was presented to Maitri, represented by CEO Michael Armentrout. Next time you see CHEER SF spreading joy, know that they also spread financial support where it is needed.

We then made a quick costume change before heading to SVN, the long-vacant car dealership at Market and Van Ness, for Disco for Democracy, a dance party to support efforts of the Democratic Party. We think that Kamala Harris herself would have loved this event with music by top DJs Austin Millz and David Harness, roller skating on the roof, and smiles all around. Manny Yekutiel was the key organizer behind this fresh idea. The place was full of joyful warriors!

After months of work on the part of many individuals and the support of the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor, the rainbow flag at Castro and Market is now a a San Francisco Landmark, ensuring its protection in perpetuity. On Friday, September 13, an amazing group of city leaders gathered at the GLBT Historical Society Museum on 18th Street for official ceremonies, including signing of the legislation by Mayor London Breed, surrounded by Charles Beal of the Gilbert Baker Foundation, Suzanne Ford and Nyguen Pham of SF Pride, Patrick Carney of the Pink Triangle, Executive Director of the LGBT Historical Society Roberto Ordeñana, Supervisors Matt Dorsey and Rafael Mandelman, City Treasurer José Cisneros, and many others. Gary Virginia brought a beautiful framed portrait of

Saturday, September 21

Grand Opening of Catch French Bistro Cleve Jones, Dr. Dee Spencer, Donna Sachet Champagne, speakers, and entertainment 2362 Market Street 5–7 pm Free!

www.catchfrenchbistro.com

Thursday, September 26

Divas & Drinks Bay Times event at The Academy

Hosted by Donna Sachet DJ Olga T The Academy SF, 2166 Market Street 6–10 pm $15 www.academy-sf.com

Saturday, September 28

Grand Ducal 50th Coronation Grand Duke Ray Ray & Grand Duchess Christina Ashton Holiday Inn Golden Gateway, 1500 Van Ness 6 pm $65 www.sfducal.org

Saturday, September 28 Magnitude Brian Kent’s Folsom Street main dance party DJs Brian Maier, Thunderpuss, GSP SVN West, 10 Van Ness 9 pm $100 & up www.folsomstreet.org

Tommy Taylor, longtime caretaker of the flag, to the event. From there, we ceremonially carried a new rainbow flag to be raised on the Landmark Flagpole, as television cameras and press photographers captured the moment. Only because of the forward thinking and tireless efforts of many can we preserve our LGBTQ+ history and its many manifestations. Now, all who see (continued on page 22)

PHOTO BY SHAWN NORTHCUTT

Donna Sachet at San Francisco City Hall on September 6, for Opening Night of the SF Opera

which addresses systemic management reform, a regional approach to treatment, stopping evictions, standing up shelters, and creating affordable housing.

We also need to expand affordable housing opportunities for extremely low-income queer folks, like our fixed-income seniors who survived the AIDS crisis only to have to choose between paying for healthcare and paying for rent. I’ve introduced Proposition G for the November ballot aimed at helping to provide rental subsidies for thousands of extremely low-income seniors with an Affordable Housing Opportunity Fund. As your mayor I will work to expand this platform to ensure that low-income queer individuals have more housing options and don’t risk facing homelessness.

Expand and Protect Vital Health Care Programs: LGBTQ individuals have unique health care needs, and as mayor I will work to ensure that these needs are met. I worked hard to get funding restored for the City Clinic, Laguna Honda Hospital, and SF

GAFFNEY/LEWIS (continued from pg 6)

right out of SmackDown central casting. And his fellow rioters chanted “Hang Mike Pence” and erected a scaffold as if it were all a game.

Except it’s not—and ABC anchor Karl and other news outlets reinforce this dangerous misconception that it is when they characterize the presidential debate as such.

We understand the temptation for the media to follow the presidential election this way. Many people root for their candidates like sports teams, feed off the suspense, and on election night experience “the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.” But unlike a football game or the SmackDown show in which fans go on with their lives after the game ends, unaffected in any tangible way by who won or lost, the outcome of a presidential election has serious real-world consequences for us all.

JUSTER (continued from pg 8)

the SF AIDS Foundation’s Beta Blog tells of new wording created by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration’s HIV/AIDS Bureau. The new definitions clarify the differences between populations with different needs, and should have a positive impact. The new definitions include:

• older adults with HIV: people with HIV aged 50 and older, who acquired HIV after 1996, when life-saving anti-retroviral treatments became available;

• long-term survaivors: adults who acquired HIV prior to the availability of antiretroviral treatments in 1996;

• and life-term survivors: adults who acquired HIV at birth or as young children. These new definitions mark a turning point, as the government has become aware that it is dealing with the first population in the history of the world that is aging with HIV—and they must create the tools and funding to provide appropriate services. This is a new field, and things are changing rapidly. For more details, and for more insights into what this means both for local programs and in the bigger picture, please read Hank Trout’s article

General Hospital, which all provide critical services for the queer community. When Queer LifeSpace was threatened with eviction, I immediately authored legislation to keep its affordable mental and behavioral health services for the queer community in place. We need more, not fewer, programs like this.

Protect Trans Refugees in San Francisco: Many trans individuals seek refuge and political asylum in San Francisco. With attacks on the trans community growing, my administration will work to expand protections for trans individuals who seek safety in our city—regardless of where they come from.

I have long been proud to be an ally of the queer community, and as mayor will continue this work with a real queer agenda for San Francisco.

Aaron Peskin has served as the President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors since 2023. https://www.aaron2024.com/

MILLER (continued from pg 10)

Democratic Party, this proposal faces significant hurdles.

Marginal Income Tax Rate Increases

Currently, the top marginal income tax rate is 37%, down from 39.6% under the TCJA. It could return to the top rate of 39.6%. This change would represent a significant shift, particularly for those near the top of the income brackets who benefited from the TCJA’s broader 24% tax bracket.

The TCJA expanded the 24% tax bracket, covering a wide range of incomes, which has resulted in many taxpayers falling into this bracket. If the TCJA expires without adjustment, individuals in this range could see their rates jump to 25%, 28%, or even 33%, depending on where their income falls within this wide bracket.

Medicare Tax Increases

Medicare funding is another area of concern, with discussions of increasing the Medicare tax rate from 3.8% to 5% for individuals earning over $400,000. Although changes to the Medicare tax may not directly impact most taxpayers, it highlights ongoing efforts to address underfunding issues in this essential program.

Corporate Tax Increases

The TCJA made corporate tax cuts permanent, lowering the corporate tax rate to 21%. The Democratic plan may propose increasing this rate to 28% and limiting deductions on executive compensation over $1 million. These changes aim to address perceived inequities in how the TCJA benefited large corporations, particularly in contrast to the temporary nature of individual tax cuts.

1031 Exchange Reforms

For those who treat the presidential election as a game, we’re confident they have fun following it all, especially when their candidate wins. But there’s a deeper joy that can be experienced when we actually engage together in social and political movements to make the world a better place and celebrate the real impact that doing so has on real people’s lives. In fact, this could be what Harris means when she invites us all to be “joyful warriors.”

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.

Section 1031 exchanges, which allow for the deferral of capital gains taxes on likekind real estate exchanges, are also under scrutiny. While once primarily utilized by sophisticated investors, these exchanges have become more common among average taxpayers as real estate values have risen. Proposals to eliminate or limit 1031 exchanges could face strong resistance from the real estate industry.

Carried Interest Loophole Closure

The carried interest loophole, which allows investment managers to pay lower capital gains tax rates on their income, is another target for reform. Closing this loophole would require these earnings to be taxed as ordinary income, aligning the tax treatment of these earnings with that of most other income earners.

Billionaire Minimum Tax

Another proposal, currently in the Ways and Means committee, is a 25% minimum tax on households with a net worth exceeding $100 million. This would target unrealized gains, a controversial move since it involves taxing asset value increases before they are sold. The Supreme Court has recently addressed related issues, which could influence the feasibility of such a tax.

Higher Excise Tax on Stock Buybacks

A higher excise tax on stock buybacks is also on the table, with an existing 1% tax potentially being increased. Stock buybacks have been criticized for benefiting shareholders at the expense of other corporate priorities, and this proposal aims to curb that practice.

at: https://tinyurl.com/TroutBeta

In Memoriam: Kevin Fisher-Paulson

San Francisco has lost a great writer, and even greater human being. For the past eight years, Kevin Fisher-Paulson’s column appeared every Wednesday in The San Francisco Chronicle He was a sheriff’s deputy by day, and his column invited us into his home and his family, where he and his husband raised two adopted boys and a series of adopted dogs in what he always referred to as their Bedlam Blue Bungalow in the Outer, Outer, Outer, Outer Excelsior.

Kevin tackled the big questions in life, but always through the lens of the deeply personal. His profound love of humanity, and his willingness to share his family’s own struggles and foibles endeared him to countless readers. Kevin died September 5, but his work lives on in his books and columns. You can read his columns here: https://tinyurl.com/KFParticles

Joanie Juster is a long-time community volunteer, activist, and ally.

As the expiration of the TCJA approaches, the debate over tax policy is set to intensify. The Republicans generally favor maintaining the TCJA, while Democrats push for reforms that target the wealthy and corporations. However, the cost of fully maintaining the TCJA—estimated at $4.5 trillion—presents a significant fiscal challenge, likely leading to compromises and adjustments.

The upcoming elections will be crucial in determining the direction of these tax policies. For now, it’s important for taxpayers and advisors alike to stay informed and prepare for possible changes that could affect everything from individual tax rates to estate planning strategies.

The opinions expressed in this article are for general informational purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual or on any specific security. It is only intended to provide education about the financial industry. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. Any past performance discussed during this program is no guarantee of future results. Any indices referenced for comparison are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. As always, please remember investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital; please seek advice from a licensed professional.

Brio Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Brio Financial Group and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. No advice may be rendered by Brio Financial Group unless a client service agreement is in place. Brandon Miller, CFP®, is a financial consultant at Brio Financial Group in San Francisco, specializing in helping LGBT individuals and families plan and achieve their financial goals. For more information: https://www.briofg.com/

Mario Mieli: Homosexuality, Humanity, and Liberation

As one of the founders of Italy’s gay rights movement in the 1970s, Mario Mieli (1952–1983), knowingly or not, lived the way poet, playwright, and LGBT icon Oscar Wilde advised. “One should always be a little improbable,” he wrote in Phrases and Philosophies for the Use of the Young. Among the most important thinkers and activists of his generation, Mieli was that and more, combining “a vision of a new sexual utopianism” with an audacious, defiant, and controversial way of life.

He was an “irreplaceable provocateur” described as “queer dynamite,” and his usually flamboyant and often shocking public behavior scandalized people both within and outside the crusade for gay liberation. His ideas, however, created a defining and hugely influential theory of queerness before he was

24 years old, when homosexuality was widely regarded as a pathology that could be “cured” with the proper “treatment.” First and foremost, “You cannot be cured of a disease that you do not have,” he told anybody who would listen. Many did.

Equally crucial, Mieli believed that “everyone is born with a complete range of erotic capability,” which meant that “homosexual desire is universal.” It was only through a process he termed “educastration,” designed “to eradicate those congenital sexual tendencies society deemed perverse,” that people “become either heterosexual or homosexual” by “repressing their homoerotic impulses in the first case, and their heterosexual ones in the second.” For him, it was “the forces that inhibit and restrict the direction of the sexual drive” that were unnatural.

Writing during a time when same-sex intimacy was illegal in much of the world and discrimination against it was widespread, even where homosexuality was not forbidden, Mieli wanted to understand why so many institutions denied LGBT people their deepest natural passions and marginalized them for their sexual behavior. His conclusion: “The hatred generated towards us within heterosexual society is caused by the repression of the homoerotic component of desire in those individuals who are apparently heterosexual.”

He simply refused to accept what he termed “the prejudices of certain reactionary rabble, i.e., all of those doctors, psychologists (whom he termed ‘psychonazis’) magistrates, politicians, priests, etc. who peddle as truth on the homosexual question the crudest lies.” Their purpose, he was convinced, was to validate and enforce the constraints against homosexuality that were “imposed by society” for its own reasons, but mostly “to encourage conformist sexual behavior based upon heterosexual marriage.”

Because Mieli insisted on “an original wholeness to all sexuality” and “the universal presence of homosexual desire,” he also disagreed with the popular belief “that the homosexual question exclusively concerns a minority,” which, for him at least, it did not. “As long as homosexuality remains repressed,” he stated, “the homosexual will be a problem concerning everyone, insofar as gay desire is present in every human being, congenitally so, even if in the majority of people it is repressed or semi-repressed.”

His solution was “the complete disinhibition of homoerotic tendencies,” which would “guarantee the attainment of a totalizing communication between human beings, independent of their sex.” The “liberation of gay desire among all,” he believed, would eventually create a sexual utopia where “the enforcement of the heterosexual norm through the removal of other components on the erotic spectrum is regarded as deeply oppressive of human nature.” Only an understanding of homosexuality as “an intrinsic part of the human being ... can guide us to full sexual freedom.”

Ultimately, this would lead “not only to the negation of heterosexuality as a heterosexual norm, but also to the transformation of homosexuality, which today is still in large part subject to the dictatorship of this norm. The antithesis of heterosexuality and homosexuality will be overcome in this way, and substituted by a transsexual synthesis; no longer will there be hetero- and homosexuals,

but polysexual, transsexual human beings; better, instead of hetero- and homosexuals there will be human beings. The species will have (re)found itself.”

In 1972, Mieli helped to create the Milan chapter of FUORI! (an acronym for Fronte Unitario Omosessuale Rivoluzionario Italiano that also means “OUT!” in Italian), founded the year before in Turin by Angelo Pezzana (1940–). Soon after, joined by French writer and feminist Franc?oise d’Eaubonne (1920–2005), he led Italy’s first demonstration for gay rights at the Congress of Sexology in San Remo, where they protested against using aversion therapy to “convert” homosexuals. (In 1979 Pezzana became the first openly LGBT person elected to public office in Italy.) Convinced that the gay liberation movement should be independent of all political organizations, Mieli left FUORI! in 1974 when it became part of the Radical Party.

He then helped to organize the Collettivi Omosessuali Milanesi (Milanese Homosexual Collective), whose all-male theatrical group Nostra Signora dei Fiori (Our Lady of Flowers) performed his intentionally provocative and very popular play La Traviata Norma for the first time in 1976. On stage, (continued on page 22)

Faces from Our LGBT Past

Dr. Bill Lipsky

Mario Mieli at a public demonstration by homosexuals in Sanremo (1972)

Protest at the Vatican during V Congresso Nazionale del Fuori, April 1976

Mario Mieli

PHOTO BY FABRIZIO GARGHETTI

PHOTO BY

Photos courtesy of Bill Lipsky

Eat Less Chiken

I was going to write about how the attacks on diversity programs in corporations and universities and public services have started to undermine the efforts by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) to rank employers according to the criteria of its Corporate Equality Index. I’ve been alarmed to see some high-profile companies, like Ford and Harley Davidson, stop cooperating by deciding to withdraw from the HRC project and stop providing data.

The coverage of this phenomenon, which seems to involve six or seven companies, makes mention of a far-right Tennessee-based activist named Robby Starbuck, who along with his wife, focuses his energies on anti-GLBT efforts of all sorts. But despite the Starbucks campaigns, it looks as if the Corporate Equality Index is just fine. Yes, a few big names have distanced themselves, but HRC says some 1,400 corporations are ranked by the Index; 93 percent of Fortune 500 ban gay and trans bias, while 75 percent provide trans health benefits.

It’s true that some of our champions, like Target and Coors, have taken a step back, but if you’re like me you never quite figured out whether or not Coors was a good company or a bad one in the first place. Likewise with Target. Everyone was mad when they took down some of their Pride gear last year, but they only took down the merchandise that was manufactured by a company that worshiped Satan, so it was okay. Did I get that right? Possibly not, but if so, it’s because it was a long time ago and I didn’t much care.

Speaking of corporations that have gotten on our bad side, here’s an article in The Advocate that asks whether or not we still hate Chick-fil-A. The answer seems to be yes; they’re not making headlines, but they’re still not great. And because Popeye’s made fun of Chick-fil-A in an ad, they are now seen as the gay friendly chicken franchise. Again, I don’t care, although I’m reminded of the time Mel and I joined other gay men and women at a “kiss in” to protest Chick-fil-A’s anti-GLBT donations back in the day. Everything went great. We all kissed. And then eight or ten guys lined up to buy sandwiches earning eye-rolls from every lesbian in attendance! Talk about missing the point of a political protest.

Do the Dew

No column is really complete without a visit from One Million Moms, who are currently upset with Mountain Dew. The latest ad stars the “Mountain Dude,” who has disturbed the Moms with a most inappropriate play on words.

“For example, in one ad,” a Mom tells us, “a man is sitting on a donkey when the Mountain Dude appears and says, ‘Hey, on the mountain, we’ve got a saying: ‘Get off your [sound of donkey braying]!’”

And lest you think this is simply an unfinished or mysterious piece of dialogue, the Moms assure us that the viewer “knows what is being said, even though the animal’s bray covers the final word.” Even worse, the YouTube version of the ad, Mom adds, “does contain the a-word.”

The “a-word!” Is it my imagination or are the Moms scraping the bottom of the barrel in their search for offensive broadcasts? As for YouTube, they’re not even blocking the “a-word” with a bray! They come right out and say it!

Sometimes I imagine that the Million Moms are staffed by a bunch of fun young interns who find these outrages and write up the press releases over French 75s or gin and tonics. At times, they make each other laugh so hard tears come to their eyes. Every two weeks they collect small paychecks from the American Family Association, and every month or so they put on their frocks or suits and conduct polite Zoom calls with their supervisors.

I think I’ve mentioned that I helped write and edit a monthly health magazine for a time, years ago. Both my boss and I smoked, drank to excess, and did not exercise whatsoever. That didn’t stop us from coming up with “Top Ten Tips for Better Health!” or “Lose Five Pounds in Five Days With This Secret!” And yes, tears often came to our eyes as we collapsed in laughter over the phone while proofreading our copy.

(Instead of that fattening pie, why not have an apple for dessert? Park your car at the end of the lot and enjoy a brisk walk to the door! Take the stairs! Is it cocktail time? Order a wine spritzer! My boss also wrote some articles under the persona of a commonsense housewife who was always trying new diets and fitness programs. Fun times.)

Some People!

I don’t really have time or space for a new subject. Did you see that “some people” (Trump and my favorite source) say that Laura Loomer looks like “Jigsaw” from the Saw movies? I can’t see it myself, but that doesn’t mean I like her looks. Mel thinks her lips are grotesque. Aetna is being sued in federal court in Connecticut for failing to cover facial surgery for transgender patients. These operations can be critical, spelling the difference in some cases between an unremarkable appearance and disfigurement. I haven’t read much of the back story, but these are not tweaks or removing bags under people’s eyes. This is a key step in some transitions.

Over in Nassau County, Florida, a school district must now return three dozen banned books to school libraries as part of a legal settlement. According to NBC News, a far-right group, Citizens Defending Freedom, stripped the libraries of everything from The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison to And Tango Makes Three, featuring one of our favorite gay penguin families. The books were targeted and removed without public hearings, as part of Ron DeSantis’ war on woke. Parents, kids, and some of the authors of the banned books filed suit in May, and agreed to settle earlier this month.

arostow@aol.com

DONNA SACHET (continued

from pg 19)

that proud symbol waving over the Castro will know its meaning and be assured of its longevity.

We joined Gary Virginia at one of the community’s most creative annual events, Chrysalis, GAPA’s Runway Pageant last Saturday at Herbst Theatre. Once again, the crowd was exuberant, the costumes were fantastic, and the competition was intense. Returning for the 30th year, emcees Nyguen Pham aka Sir Whitney Queers and Jezebel Patel kept the audience in stitches with topical references, sharp humor, and good-natured banter. Stepping down were Mx. GAPA Lotus Party and Ms. GAPA Kiki Krunch, showcasing fabulous costumes and touching performances. Beyond the contest, the appearance of the Producer of the event, Jethro Patalunhug aka Virginia Please, in a fabulous floral ensemble brought down the house. Ten competitors faced five judges in multiple categories, as the enthusiastic crowd cheered on their favorites, especially during the talent portion of the pageant. The judges faced no easy task! Finally, after hours of fantastic costumes, crowd-pleasing talent, and witty responses to questions, the winners were announced: Kalypso and Ari Ola. (Ari’s contestant number with a rice theme will go down in history as one of the most original ever.) What a night!

We finished the evening back in the Castro at 440 for a special guest set by DJ Lester Temple, courtesy of Paul Goodyear. The bar was electrified with excitement as Lester spun vinyl for a couple of hours, bringing back vivid memories of nights at Dreamland, I-Beam, Trocadero Transfer, The End-Up, and more. His birthday arrived at midnight, so we celebrated with cupcakes and celebratory toasts.

Cosmic Jungle, the 52nd annual Mr./Ms./Miss/Mx. Pageant of the Imperial Council of San Francisco, attracted 8 worthy contestants and an enthusiastic crowd of supporters last Sunday night to the Harvey Milk Center for the Arts. Reigning Empress Linda Summers kicked things off with a rousing Latin number, emcees Emperor XXXVIII Stephen Dorsey and Absolute Empress LI Emma Peel kept the evening rolling along, and an esteemed panel of judges did the hard work of selecting the winners. To say the competition was intense would be a gross understatement; each contestant brought their best in costuming, personality, talent, and more. Additional entertainment included anniversary numbers by former Gay title-holders and the stepping-down Mr. Gay Josue Henriquez and Miss Gay Nikita Vega. When all was said and done, the results were announced: Mx. Gay San Francisco Sue Trowtower, Miss Gay SF The One and Only Rexy, runners-up Xochhitl and Joryss Basaid, Ms. Gay SF Bettyie Jayne, runner-up Ladycuki Couture, and Mr. Gay SF Josue Henriquez (for the second year in a row), runner-up Candi Mint Mercury. Heads were crowned, sashes adorned, and flowers distributed, as the crowd went wild.

One more special moment at the pageant was the recognition of all the previous Gay title-holders present, starting with this humble columnist who was crowned in 1992 as Miss Gay San Francisco, followed by many familiar faces and several more recent Imperial participants. How time flies! Our take-away? Follow your dreams; don’t wait for them to be delivered to your door. Congratulations to the Imperial Council for continuing this significant historic pageant for 52 years!

If the past few weeks are any indication, San Francisco is alive and well. Get out of the house and join the fun!

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

LIPSKY (continued from pg 21)

“diversity made fun of normality and repression decided to manifest itself as a living force that contagiously incites transgression.”

Partly because of his activism, partly because of his flamboyance, Mieli became a leading figure in Italy’s growing debate about homosexuality and sexual expression. He often appeared in public wearing a simple string of pearls and “the clothes of a lady of good family.” Always provocative, he once interviewed workers leaving an Alfa Romeo factory in full make-up, overalls, and stiletto heels. “Try to live with a clear conscience,” he wrote, “an existence that the regular mass, in its idiotic blindness, despises and tries to suffocate.”

Mieli’s pioneering blueprint for gay liberation was based upon a concept that has mostly disappeared from contemporary queer theory and politics: the foundational significance of sex. “The liberation of Eros,” he stated, “and the emancipation of the human race pass necessarily—and this is a gay necessity—through the liberation of homoeroticism, which includes an end to the persecution of manifest homosexuals and the concrete expression of the homoerotic component of desire on the part of all human beings. Baisé soit qui mal y pense. (To hell with anyone who thinks this is wrong.)”

The words of Mario Mieli are taken from Homosexuality and Liberation: Elements of a Gay Critique, published in English in 1977, and Toward a Gay Communism, a revised and greatly expanded edition of the work that appeared in 2018

Bill Lipsky, Ph.D., author of “LGBTQ+ Trailblazers of San Francisco” (2023) and “Gay and Lesbian San Francisco” (2006), is a member of the Rainbow Honor Walk board of directors.

Take Me Home with You!

Introducing Cole: Your Next Great Adventure Buddy

Meet Cole, a lively Kelpie mix with a zest for life as big as his heart! Bursting with energy and affection, Cole is the ideal companion for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their daily routine. Like the trusty Coleman stove, Cole is always ready to ignite the fun, whether it’s a spontaneous hike or a game of fetch. And with a heart as warm and inviting as a Nat King Cole melody, he’ll fill your days with joy and loyalty. Adventure or relaxation, Cole is your go-to sidekick, ready to share life’s moments. And like a beloved The Bachelor contestant, he’s here to win your heart!

Foster-to-Adopt: The Perfect Trial

Wondering if Cole is your perfect match? Try fostering him for a week! You’ll have the chance to bond and see if he’s the right fit for your home. If it doesn’t work out, no worries—bring him back to us. Interested? Visit us or reach out via adoptions@sfspca.org to learn more.

Come meet Cole at the SF SPCA’s Mission Campus, located at 201 Alabama Street. We’re open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 am–6 pm, and Tuesday, 1 pm–6 pm (closed Mondays). Stop by, spend time with Cole, and discover if he’s the adventurous companion you’ve been dreaming of. A week with him could be the start of something wonderful!

https://www.sfspca.org/adoptions/

Let’s Go Home!

Here are two of the many pets now available for adoption at Oakland Animal Services (OAS):

Kirby, one of our longest foster dogs, is a fun-loving 3-year-old, 32-pound pup looking for his forever home. He’s independent but loves attention, enjoys quick walks, and is great with working-fromhome humans. Kirby gets along with confident cats, but he needs to be the only dog in the home. You’ll love his adorable quirks, like playing catch with himself! Interested in Kirby but not sure? Try our foster-to-adopt program and see if he’s the right fit for you!

Meet Cheesecake, one of our other longest foster pups and the ultimate 4-year-old party animal! This sweet girl is the life of the yard, sprinting off-leash with pure joy and coming back with equal enthusiasm when called.

She adores attention, belly rubs, and toys, and she’s a pro at “sit” and “down.” While she’s a bit sensitive about her head, Cheesecake’s unique little head tilt only adds to her charm. Though she prefers to be the only dog in the home, Cheesecake is ready to soak up all the love and fun with her forever family.

The OAS adoption process focuses on matching you with a pet who is a good fit for you and your family. Come by during open adoption hours Thursdays 12–7 pm and Fridays/Saturdays/Sundays 12–3 pm to adopt your new best friend, or to learn more about the OAS adoption process. Please see the OAS website to learn more about how you can help by adopting, fostering, volunteering, and donating: www.oaklandanimalservices.org

Cole

Kirby

Cheesecake

When I meet a powerful woman like Kamala or Hillary, I’m not in awe but filled with admiration and (dare I say it?) identification. The journey to achieve as a bright woman is filled with pain and potholes. I know that achieving as a male is tough too, but being a woman brings with it specific hurdles. Getting through those without giving up is a miracle of fortitude and courage. Working in network television in the 1970s as part of a crew was lonely. I was the second woman to take on the job of Associate Director (Assistant Director in film) at a network. This coveted job got me into the Directors Guild of America (DGA) and a position with benefits and good income. I bought my first car, an orange VW convertible bug, through the ABC credit union. It was a challenging gig, sitting next to the director in the booth giving orders to cameramen (all men back then) and some days being on the floor throwing cues at stars and supporting players. Pressure. But worse was the resentment of the men I worked with. To them, a young woman in her twenties did not deserve to make a salary meant for a family to live on.

This was also before the MeToo movement. We all look good in our twenties, and nothing stopped men like Richard Dawson, Lawrence Welk, and many guys on the crew from coming on to me. The good news is what I found out when I reported one of them to my Guild after a particularly nasty encounter. I was told to report every time I encountered this behavior, and I did. Soon word got around and I was left alone. I felt sorry for the other women I saw, mostly secretaries, makeup girls, and production assistants. I was lucky to have the DGA and then NABET (National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians) and SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists).

As I climbed up in the industry, taking on producing and directing, I got tough. Virginia Mayo once told me she would never let her daughter be in show business because “if you’re a woman, you have to have the hide of an elephant.” I began to have that toughness, whether it was dating like a guy

How I Not Just Survived But Thrived as an Ambitious Woman in 1970s Hollywood

or swearing like a sailor. I still do the swearing thing!

I worked two jobs and rarely slept, winning a couple of Emmys and becoming “someone.” I was beginning to move in front of the camera, too. About this time, something happened to me I thought was totally impossible. I fell in love with a shy, quiet guy from small town Iowa whom I picked up on a plane. Even though my bosses and colleagues told me it was a huge mistake, I moved to the Bay Area with him and began again. I never thought I would put anything ahead of Manhattan and Los Angeles, the only places to climb even further in my career. Love won, and many years later we are still together.

So many more films featuring strong female characters come to mind, such as Frida, Madame Curie, IronJawed Angels, Norma Rae, and Fried Green Tomatoes, just to name a few. Onward and upward, sisters, and our brother allies. It is our time!

Jan Wahl is a Hollywood historian and film critic on various broadcast outlets. She has two Emmys and many awards for her longtime work on behalf of film buffs and the LGBTQ community. Contact her at www.janwahl.com

Beginning again let me make choices. I went in front of the microphone and camera, carving out a nice career, just me and my hats. The world of broadcasting had changed, and I was no longer the only woman anywhere. Plus, I became active in the LBGTQ community, which has the most welcoming people in the world. I’m still working actively in it and loving communicating my passion for movies more than ever. Here are a few films that inspire me every day:

Hidden Figures is a 2016 movie set in the early sixties at NASA. Three African American women are working on the Mercury Program. They are mathematicians with a pivotal role in astronaut John Glenn’s launch into orbit. All three deal with racial and gender discrimination with courage and persistence. I can close my eyes and see determined Octavia Spencer, Taraji P. Henson, and Janelle Monae. This is a bold, profound, and uplifting film.

1996 gave us the quirky, sassy, and funny The First Wives Club. At their friend’s funeral, three women (Bette Midler, Diane Keaton, and Goldie Hawn) reunite. Together, they seek retribution on their men for having left them for younger women. Some of this is silly, but it is the strength of the three main characters that drives this fine film along, causing us to invest in them and root for their success on their own terms. Even though the film was a huge success and grossed 181 million worldwide,

Hollywood decided not to make a sequel. Bette told me that all three women were up for it, but studios turned it down. How about now?

Off the Wahl

Jan Wahl

New Coming of Age Comedy Considers a Teen’s Identity

Film

Gary M. Kramer

More wise than witty, writer/director Megan Park’s low-key comedy My Old Ass, now playing at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema New Mission and opening September 20 at the AMC Metreon 16, is about learning to trust yourself and developing appreciation for the simple moments in life.

Elliott (Maisy Stella) is 18 years young and getting ready to head off to college in 22 days. While she feels her life is finally about to start, her biggest aspiration—other than leaving her small town of 300 people—is to hook up with Chelsea (Alexandria Rivera), the girl she’s been crushing on.

When she and her besties, Ro (Kerrice Brooks) and Ruthie (Maddie Ziegler), celebrate Elliott’s birthday with hallucinogens, Elliott’s trip becomes truly metaphysical; she comes face to face with her 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza).

Of course, Elliott has questions. What stock should she buy to get rich? Am I married to a woman, and do we have three kids? And, can I kiss you and touch your, or rather my, old ass? Older Elliott, however, is a bit of a buzzkill, giving Elliott no market tips, and explaining there are no kids and no dream job. She cryptically tells her younger self, “The only thing you can’t get back is time.”

But Older Elliott does emphasize being nice to her mother, spending more time with her brothers, and if she heeds no other advice, it is critical that she stay away from Chad.

Who is Chad, and what terrible things happened with him, Elliott wonders. Older Elliott does not reveal, but she does show off a toe she lost (and misses). Shortly after this magical encounter, Elliott meets a summer worker on the family’s cranberry farm, named Chad (Perry Hynes White). He is both charming and annoyingly perfect. And despite all Elliott’s efforts to resist him, she starts to

develop “weird feelings” for Chad. She even wonders if she is gay anymore. Maybe she’s bi or pan?

My Old Ass is sweet as it chronicles Elliott’s changing desires, as well as her efforts to bond with her brother Max (Seth Isaac Johnson) and spend more time with her mom, Kathy (Maria Dizzia). But it is Elliott’s periodic phone calls to her older self that provide the film with its heart. As Older Elliott doles out life lessons about healthy love and realizing that what you think you want may not be what you really want, Elliott tries to reconcile what she knows with what she feels. And when Chad talks with Elliott about childhood memories and moments, or Kathy recounts caring for Elliott as a baby, the film is more bittersweet than comic.

The various heartfelt scenes provide some meat on a film that otherwise feels pretty slight. Elliott’s character may be young and naive, but she seems almost unformed. Her interactions with Chelsea stop almost immediately after she connects with Chad. If she struggles with her sexuality, it happens mostly off-screen. There is not sufficient sexual tension or chemistry between Elliott and Chad to make viewers care as deeply about their romance as the characters do.

While Elliott is likeable, one subplot has her outraged when she learns something about her family farm that everyone else has long known. But it is hard to feel sympathy for her, because, as everyone indicates, she wasn’t all that interested.

The comedy is also uneven. Some of the humor is gently amusing, such as Elliott’s clumsiness in a motorboat, and some of it feels lame, such as a gag about Elliott’s younger brother Spencer’s (Carter Trozzolo) obsession with actress Saoirse Ronan. One humorous moment that will work only for viewers of a certain age involves a fantasy sequence where Elliott mimics a once

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Two-Step Devil (fictionhardcover) by Jamie Quatro

This is the story of a reclusive prophet who rescues a teenage girl with a troubled past, believing she’s a divine messenger destined to carry his warnings to the White House. This is a Book Passage First Edition pick for September.

Top of your stack

Tell Me Everything (fiction - hardcover) by Elizabeth Strout

Lovely One (non-fiction - hardcover) by Ketanji Brown Jackson

This memoir is the story of Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman ever to be appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court. It chronicles her life story and her extraordinary path to becoming a jurist on America’s highest court.

Familiar Elizabeth Strout characters like Lucy Barton, Olive Kitteridge, and Bob Burgess come together in Crosby, Maine, to confront life’s big questions amidst a murder investigation of an isolated man accused of killing his mother.

Upcoming

Events

Friday, September 20 @ 6 pm (non-ticketed - Corte Madera store) Mitch Anderson and Nemonte Nenquimo, authors of We Will Be Jaguars: A Memoir of My People

In We Will Be Jaguars, Nemonte Nenquimo, born in the Amazon region of Ecuador in 1985 and a leader of the Waorani people, partners with her husband, Mitch Anderson, founder of Amazon Frontlines, to dig into generations of oral history, uproot centuries of conquest, and hack away at racist notions of indigenous peoples. The authors

will be joined in conservation by Jared Blumenfeld.

Tuesday, September 24 @ 5:30 pm (non- ticketed - SF Ferry Building store) Terry Szuplat, author of Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience

Terry Szuplat, one of former president Barack Obama’s longest-serving speechwriters, shares his advice on how anyone, anywhere can become a better speaker, communicator, and leader. Szuplat will be joined in conservation by former senior advisor to Obama, Dan Pfeiffer.

Tuesday, October 1 @ 6 pm (ticketedLeft Bank Brasserie, Larkspur) Tyler Florence, author of American Grill: 125 Recipes for Mastering Live Fire

This event includes an unforgettable dinner with Tyler Florence, who is a celebrated chef, restaurateur, and star of Food Network’s Tyler’s Ultimate. His new cookbook dives into the art of grilling.

https://www.bookpassage.com/

The Contemporary Jewish Museum Presents Transgender Artist Nicki Green’s First Solo Museum Exhibition

The Contemporary Jewish Museum (The CJM) is now presenting Nicki Green: Firmament, the transgender and transdisciplinary artist’s first solo museum exhibition. In this presentation, Green explores identity, transformation, and Jewish tradition through artworks that invoke imagery of fermentation, Jewish ritual, mycelium, and more. Bringing together new and existing works, the exhibition includes large-scale sculptures, fiber works, ritual objects, and drawings. It is on view through February 2, 2025.

headed androgynous figures, presented as angels, luxuriate and co-mingle amongst reinvented ritual objects, including wash basins and ornamental fermentation vessels. Despite their mass and heft, the sculptures in the exhibition also communicate a sense of mobility, with many displayed atop

Green’s inspiration for this exhibition comes from the concept of the firmament—a thin dome or expanse referenced in the Book of Genesis that divides the earth from the heavens. This form of separation in the Torah offers Green a reference to imagine an architectural object that functions as a sanctuary for in-between states of being and thinking, and an environment of warmth, welcome, and liberation for trans and nonbinary bodies.

The central sculpture appears as a large tent-like structure situated in the center of the gallery and frames several of the largescale clay works on view. In addition to the firmament, the structure is inspired by descriptions of the biblical mishkan or tabernacle—a portable sanctuary constructed by the Jewish people to represent God’s earthly domain while in exile. The “skin” of the tent—a sculpture made by Green’s longtime collaborator, artist Ricki Dwyer— is woven to reach up to the heavens, while also anchoring and sheltering the artworks and bodies in the space.

A large vessel situated in the middle of the tent symbolizes a mikvah (the Jewish ritual bath), a space from which queer and trans bodies have traditionally been excluded. Under and surrounding this canopy, multi-

their own travel and storage crates. Green’s emphasis on portability throughout this exhibition positions diaspora—the dispersion of a people from their place of origin and across regions—as a core tenet of her lived Jewish experience.

“Green’s work with clay, and her process of shaping it into new forms, is analogous to the shaping and interpretation of religion,” said Senior Curator Heidi Rabben. “Many religions have left a void for gender non-conforming and other marginalized communities. Green demonstrates how new space and a sense of belonging can be intentionally reinvented and created.”

Green has had a longstanding interest in fermentation and mushrooms, drawing on them as visual cues for resiliency, constant states of transformation, and metaphors for her trans and Jewish identities. These interests play out thematically throughout the exhibition, with motifs of mushrooms and mycelium decorating the ceramic vessels, many of which reference containers used for the fermentation process.

These metaphors all center on processes of transformation or metamorphosis including elements of destruction, resilience, and regeneration, ideas that have also informed Jewish thinking and practice for thousands

of years. These ideas are further underscored by a new text piece written by local Maggid and queer elder Eli Andrew Ramer that wraps around the walls of the gallery enveloping all of these objects in a metaphorical embrace. By reclaiming elements of her Jewish upbringing, reinventing functional uses and forms of ceramic objects, and reimagining ways of being, Green challenges and expands the binary limits of contemporary society.

The exhibition is presented concurrently with a solo exhibition Eye of the Fountain at local gallery, CULT: Aimee Friberg Exhibitions, which offers a complementary take on the artist’s rich oeuvre. There, the entire gallery is contextually engaged as a mikvah, inviting visitors to look downwards, which conceptually complements the elevated objects and themes presented in Firmament About Nicki Green

A former longtime Bay Area resident, Green received her BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute and MFA from UC Berkeley before settling in New York where she is currently Assistant Professor of Ceramics at Alfred University. Green has exhibited internationally, including at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C.; La Biennale de Lyon, Lyon, France; the New Museum, New York; and Musée d’Art Moderne, Paris, France. Green is a 2022 Tiffany Foundation Award Winner, a 2022 Nancy Graves Foundation Grantee, and a 2020 ART MATTERS fellow.

https://www.thecjm.org/

Nicki Green

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun

By

Sister Dana sez, “Happy LEATHER WEEK to one and all! You don’t have to proudly love or wear leather—but you need to respect us LGBTQ folx and friends who do! Leather plays a big part in the Queer Community!”

The introduction to LEATHER WEEK is always LEATHERWALK , which this year is on Sunday, September 22. Meet at City Hall at 11 am, visit our favorite SOMA venues, and end up at Eagle Plaza around 3 pm to raise the LEATHER PRIDE FLAG! Get your gear on (or not); bring your kink (or don’t); and join fellow leather folx, kinksters, and queer community members and friends to celebrate our vibrant heritage, foster community spirit, and encourage authentic self-expression. The event benefits the L eather Legacy Landmarks

Sidewalk Plaques Initiative. Details at https://leatherwalk.org/

This year, Leather Week is packed with parties, programs, and other activities that celebrate our queer and kinky lives. Here is an overview of some of these joyous events: https://bit.ly/3XJMPqV

The Grand Finale of LEATHER WEEK is the annual FOLSOM STREET FAIR on Sunday, September 29, on Folsom Street, between 8th and 13th Streets, from Howard to Harrison. The organization, FOLSOM STREET EVENTS, is committed to cultivating a safe, open, and inclusive environment for the kink, leather, and alternative sexuality communities while centering equity for BIPOC and LGBTQ people in their work. They unite, strengthen, and affirm the community through support, resources, education, advocacy, visibility, and celebration by centering and uplifting marginalized voices. They are dedicated to sexual liberation and the right to pleasure as a crucial part of the whole liberation movement. https://www.folsomstreet.org/

On September 6 at the Asian Art Museum in Samsung Hall, Mayor London Breed announced Genny Lim as San Francisco’s 9th POET LAUREATE. Lim is now the city’s first Chinese American ever to serve in this role.

On September 11, “a day we will never forget,” Trump invited known conspiracy

theorist, radical right-wing, 9/11 denier Laura Loomer as his guest on his private plane to the Memorial Flight 93 crash site and Ground Zero Sister Dana sez, “That is ironic and unconscionable!”

A Community Celebration produced by CASTRO COMMUNITY BENEFIT DISTRICT to Landmark the GILBERT BAKER RAINBOW FLAG was apparently held on September 13 at 11 am at 4127 18th Street and then later at Harvey Milk Plaza. Sister Dana (The Lame Nun) could not attend—still trapped at home with a mangled ankle. The grand event was advertised previously: The SAN FRANCISCO PRIDE BAND to open and close; remarks by SF Supervisor Rafael Mandelman , GILBERT BAKER FOUNDATION Chair Charley Beal , Senator Scott Wiener, former Mayor Willie Brown ; speech and bill signing by Mayor London Breed; Flag Changing Ceremony led by Castro Merchants Association President Terry Asten Bennett ; and everyone to walk across the street to Twin Peaks Tavern for a celebratory drink. I trust everything went well as planned.

RUTH’S TABLE is a Front Porch Community Services program committed to increasing access to creative opportunities for older adults and adults with disabilities, providing an inclusive and inspiring environment for creative expression and meaningful connections. Participation in the arts—whether as a maker, supporter, or observer—enhances the quality of life for individuals, providing opportunities for self-expression, social engagement, and personal growth. With intergenerational exchange at the core of their mission, “Ruth’s Table” offers a dynamic combination of rotating gallery exhibitions, creative programming, and community initiatives. For older adult participants, engagement in multidisciplinary arts also contributes to their physical, intellectual, and emotional well-being, reduces isolation, stimulates cognitive functioning, and promotes personal growth and an active lifestyle. Ruth’s Table is funded by the City of San Francisco’s DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITY AND AGING SERVICES

Located at 3160 21st Street, Ruth’s Table offers a variety of ongoing services, workshops, galleries, and more to anyone and

everyone—that really should be checked out further at https://www.ruthstable.org/

SF PRIDE will present the 2024 EXCELLENCE IN GOLF AWARD to Tisha

Alyn , former pro golfer and media personality, for her outstanding leadership in advancing LGBTQ visibility and inclusion in the sport of golf. A fundraising reception will be in the Fairmont Hotel Crown Room, 7 pm on September 20.

https://sfpride.org/golf

Sister Dana sez, “In a big ol’ slap to Fox-TV (Trump butt-smooching) News, James Murdoch, son of Fox media mogul Rupert Murdoch, has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for President! ‘Fair and balanced’ Fox news? Karma’s at work, Rupert baby!”

The legendary MONSTER SHOW, famously known as “San Francisco’s most ridiculous drag show,” will celebrate its 21st birthday. As the longest-running weekly drag show in the Castro, the Monster Show is renowned for welcoming wildly creative styles and expressions of drag, keeping the art form weird in an era of increasing conformity. The Monster Show will host its 21st Anniversary Show on Thursday, September 26, 10 pm, at the Edge Bar, 4149 18th Street. The show will feature a dozen favorite local performers, each doing an “especially Monster Show” number. Founded by the late legendary drag queen Cookie Dough and her partner DJ MC2 , The Monster Show has become a beacon for drag experimentation and inclusivity. The show is currently hosted and co-produced by Elsa Touche, KaiKai Bee Michaels, and Oliver Branch , with co-producer/stage manager Otter and DJ Real of Melbourne The Monster Show goes on at 10 pm every Thursday night at the Edge.

Sister Dana sez, “As we go to press, OHIO Senator JD Vance is doubling down on Springfield, Ohio, Haitians eating pets. Nor has ANY Congressional Republican denied this heinous, racist lie! Reprehensible!”

Get ready for a special concert experience that blends the worlds of music and visual art! Join the SAN FRANCISCO PRIDE BAND for PORTRAITS OF

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Sister Dana Van Iquity

Dennis McMillan (aka Sister Dana) with Cleve Jones at the GLBT History Museum (2018). Cleve’s 70rh Birthday Party Celebration is coning up on Friday, October 11. http://www.clevejones70.com

Oakland Pride 2024

“Rooted in Pride” was the theme of the 2024 Oakland Pride Parade and Festival held in the heart of downtown Oakland on Sunday, September 8. The day was preceded by a week of special Pride activities and events held at participating venues.

The San Francisco Bay Times team was surprised and excited to learn of the Bay Times’ selection by the Oakland Pride Board of Directors as one of the four Grand Marshals to lead the Oakland Pride Parade this year.

Also honored to serve as Grand Marshals of Oakland Pride 2024 were:

• community activist Anita Phaye Thomas, who has served for more than 25 years as an HIV and mental services advocate;

• transgender activist and organizer Jupiter Peraza, who is noted as a Founder of the City of San Francisco’s Transgender District;

• and the Royal Grand Ducal Council of Alameda & Contra Costa Counties, a service and philanthropic organization founded in 1998 and recognized as a member of the International Court System that began in 1965 and has local affiliates throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

We are grateful to Oakland Pride, the incredible Oakland Pride Board that is one of the strongest yet, and to our team of volunteers and contingent members who joined us in the parade as well as staffed the Bay Times booth throughout the day. The Bay Times booth was just one of many, including those of vendors, at the Oakland Pride Festival that stretched down several large blocks packed with attendees, especially later in the afternoon.

Special thanks to contingent sponsors Big Bus Tours and Sparky’s Balloons—and to San Francisco Pride President Nguyen Pham, who saved the day when our vehicle started to run over one of our very large rainbow flags! Pham, rocking glittery stilettos, went on to help wave the flag proudly during the parade.

We are also grateful to Oakland Vice Mayor Rebecca Kaplan, who biked to the event and rode in the parade alongside our contingent. The parade, along with so many other Oakland LGBTQ-related events, programs, and more, was largely her vision. She is a longtime Bay Times columnist, and her Chief of Staff, Kimberly Jones, rode with us as well.

Known for its commitment to family-friendly activities included as part of the celebration, Oakland Pride is dedicated to educating the greater Bay Area and promoting equality, social justice, civic involvement, and responsibility within Oakland and neighboring communities. Members of our contingent and others all commented on the impressive age diversity of attendees, ranging from kids happily playing, blowing bubbles, and more, to beaming seniors.

http://www.oaklandpride.org

Barr Hill Gin Launches 8th Annual ‘Bee’s Knees Week’ to

Protect Pollinators, September 20–29,

Cocktails With Naj

Barr Hill Gin, America’s most awarded gin and creator of Landcrafted® spirits, announces its 8th Annual Bee’s Knees Week, set for September 20–29, 2024. This initiative combines cocktail culture with conservation, aiming to protect vital pollinator habitats across the United States. As a 1% for the Planet partner, Barr Hill will provide funds to 1% for the Planet-approved partners such as the Garden for the Environment, located here in San Francisco. This year’s habitat program will pilot

outcomes that benefit pollinators and community gardens.

Since its inception, Bee’s Knees Week has helped create more than 700,000 square feet of new pollinator habitat. This year, Barr Hill has set an ambitious goal: to reach 1 million square feet of new habitat pledged and planted by the end of the event.

The urgency of this mission is clear. North American bumblebee populations have plummeted by nearly 50% since 1974. These pollinators are essential not just for Barr Hill’s distinctive spirits, but also for food security. Bees contribute to over 90 different food crops in the U.S., adding more than $20 billion to the economy annually.

How to Help the Bees

Participation in Bee’s Knees Week is simple and delicious!

1. Join a celebration or cocktail competition. There is a Bee’s Knees Week celebration at The Factory Bar in Richmond on Sunday, September 22, from 3–5 pm, hosted by the Barr Hill Team. For tickets and more information: https://www.thefactorybar.net/

2024

At the competition we’ll be:

- enjoying unique cocktails crafted by the incredible bar team at The Factory Bar;

- planting pollinator habitat for guests to take home for their own gardens;

- sharing bee trivia with prizes;

- tasting honey from around the world; - and learning from a beekeeper & observation beehive.

You can also check out the great cocktail competition on September 22 at Brasserie du Monde in Sacramento! https://brasseriedumonde.com/

Visit Bee’s Knee’s Week online ( https://bit.ly/4cQsg0C ) or follow @barrhillgin on Instagram to learn more and find participating venues.

2. Visit other participating bars, restaurants, and stores on the Bee’s Knees website ( https://bit.ly/4dPxWsO ).

3. Post your Bee’s Knees cocktail on social media using #beeskneesweek and tagging @barrhillgin.

4. For every cocktail/mocktail shared, Barr Hill pledges to plant 10 square feet of new pollinator habitat.

Plus, each bottle of Barr Hill Gin purchased at a participating store or online at the Barr Hill website ( https://bit.ly/4eaU8gK ) will result in 20 square feet pledged.

Whether you’re a professional bartender or a home cocktail enthusiast, Bee’s Knees Week offers a chance to enjoy exceptional spirits while making a positive impact.

Barr Hill Gin is on a mission to connect cocktail culture with agriculture by crafting world-class spirits, educating consumers, and protecting the hardworking bees that make it all possible. Now that’s something worth raising a glass to. Learn more at https://bit.ly/4cQsg0C

Naiady “Naj” Porta Oliveira, a queer San Francisco native, blends a deep love for mixology with a passion for vibrant LGBTQ+ culture. As a cocktail columnist, they craft unique drink recipes that reflect the eclectic spirit of their city and community. When not shaking up new concoctions, they’re exploring San Francisco’s dynamic nightlife and advocating for inclusivity in every pour.

Naiady Porta Oliveira

Magical Mendocino Bay Times Dines

The Gay Gourmet

David Landis

There’s no doubt that the charming town of Mendocino on the North Coast of California is a mystical and magical place. Ancient redwood groves, the dramatic rocky coastline, and a gorgeous setting make this Victorian village worthy of the 3-plus hour trip north of San Francisco.

The first inhabitants were the Pomo Native Americans, followed by the titans of the lumber industry. But it was artists who saved the burg when it was in decline in the late 1950s. According to Wikipedia, “After the Mendocino Art Center formed in 1959, Mendocino experienced a forty-year art renaissance, led by artist and real estate developer Bill Zacha.” Most people may also remember Mendocino as the location where Same Time, Next Year and Murder, She Wrote were filmed. You can still stay at both places: the Heritage House for the former and the Blair House for the latter.

We’re the lucky modern-day recipients of the artistic explosion. The good news

is that aesthetic expression has now even permeated the culinary arts. The result? Some terrific restaurants that hit a high bar, even for spoiled foodie San Franciscans.

So, here are the Gay Gourmet’s recommendations for a wonderful weekend in Mendocino.

Stay

Our hotel of choice is the Stanford Inn & Resort . Why? First of all, it’s one of the most dogfriendly accommodations anywhere. Our little pound pups, Gaston and Alphonse, can attest to that fact. You can dine comfortably with your canine friend in the inviting lounge, and the beautifully manicured grounds are perfect for walking leashed pooches.

One of the manifestations of this philosophy is that the fine dining in-house restaurant, Ravens, is completely vegan. As a restaurant reviewer who is a self-proclaimed omnivore, I was admittedly skeptical. But after tasting the culinary creations at Ravens, I’ve become a total convert.

I’d describe the design as artsy 1970s Big Sur woodsy comfort. Our lovely suite included a generous living area with a working fireplace; a huge deck big enough to sip a cocktail while overlooking the flowering gardens; a separate and large bedroom (with terrific lighting for reading at night and ample storage space, one of my pet peeves); a large closet; and a semi-remodeled bathroom big enough for a family of four. The ethos of this wonderful hotel is guided by mindfulness, the result of the vision of owners Jeff and Joan Stanford. In their own words, “We noted mental and physical resilience ... from embracing that we are within nature; from consuming predominately whole plantbased foods; and importantly, playing with art and meditation.”

Vegan does not have to mean bland or flavorless. It can mean delicious—and it does at Ravens. Let’s start with the fact that Ravens has a full, well-stocked bar, with great brands like Hendricks and all the makings for the Gay Gourmet’s beloved Negroni. The wine list is carefully curated, mostly from nearby Anderson Valley, which in my humble opinion is an underrated wine region. We selected a Long Meadow Ranch Pinot Gris white wine that was clean and a perfect complement to the vegan delights to follow.

An appetizing amuse-bouche arrived unannounced. It was a potato frittata croquette with basil, lemon, and thyme, and this tasty morsel signaled the meal was going to be something special. For starters, we split a very creative vegan futomaki (a kind of Japanese roll) offering: two with avocado and cucumber; and two with red pepper, tofu, and cucumber. An added accent of real wasabi hit the spot. Also to share was a local roasted yellow and red beet salad with pecans and a creamy Dijon vinaigrette, tasting as if those beets had been picked just yesterday.

For his entrée, my husband Sean opted for the ravioli, stuffed with hemp sunflower ricotta, and topped with house made marinara—a classic,

yummy Italian dish with a vegan twist. I chose Ravens’ sea palm pad Thai, a marvelous vegan play on a Thai classic with rice and sea palm noodles, broccoli, cauliflower, mung bean sprouts, green onion, peanuts, and cilantro. It all was delivered with just the right amount of spice. One word of warning: the portions are huge. They’re enough for two, which meant we didn’t have room for dessert. That said, our knowledgeable server Vernoica recommended the homemade strawberry shortcake with an almond crust. Next time!

If you stay at the Stanford, breakfast also is included. The menu includes such delicious vegan choices as a cappuccino with soy milk, fresh-squeezed orange juice, polenta with sundried tomatoes and cashew cream, and a buckwheat and oat waffle with fresh fruit and real maple syrup (accompanied by soy and vegetable whip butter). Simply scrumptious!

Dine

Also high on the list is the two Michelin star fine dining spot Harbor House Inn. It’s a bit of a schlep: it’s a 30 minute plus drive south of Mendocino on a windy road to Elk. But having the restaurant (which also houses a hotel) perched on a dramatic coast side cliff makes the view worth the drive. Sadly, however, on the day we visited, our famous California fog was in residence.

The special attention at this eight-table restaurant begins as you are greeted by name at the door! The dining room is modern with a nod to woodsy decor, and accented with colorful abalone shells displayed on the walls. We opted for the fourplus course prix fixe lunch (at $135/person, a bargain for this quality). I would recommend the noontime repast in order to (hopefully) enjoy the rocky North Coast view (and a better value than the more extensive $325/dinner choice). We chose a French Moreau-Naudet Chablis, a light and perfect accompaniment to our meal. I’m not sure how they do it in such a

Gaston in the spacious suite at the Stanford Inn & Resort Vegan pad Thai at Ravens

Village of Mendocino PHOTO

Bay Times Dines

remote location, but the curated wine list is substantial.

Our midday fare began with the Harbor House’s creative interpretation of Japanese sunomono: the central focus was paper-thin sliced tuna that was so tender it tasted like butter, with cucumber three ways (cooked, raw, and fermented). The bread course featured a homemade sourdough with sea lettuce and flax seed, accompanied by cultured sea lettuce butter. They even harvest their own sea lettuce right outside their door! A rich and buttery local black cod followed, with yellow flowers and shishito peppers, adding color and spice to the silky and sweet fish.

The star of the lunch, in my opinion, was the homemade lamb sausage. The Harbor House version is a riff on cassoulet, with white mayocoba beans and mustard greens instead of mustard. Ingenious!

The sausage is served with an unusual and tasty cabbage dressed with sesame and breadcrumbs, along with a farm green salad with squash blossom dressing. Then came the desserts (not just one, mind you!). First there was an “amazake” (a non-alcoholic sweet sake) custard with cucumber ice and meringue. A zucchini cake—crispy on the outside but so moist on the inside—topped with buttermilk sorbet and marigold petals followed. To finish? A bronze fennel candy. Magnifique!

Right smack dab in the middle of downtown Mendocino is the majestic 1882 Victorian hotel and restaurant, MacCallum House

What a dining surprise! Mostly, when I think of Mendocino restaurants, I think of eateries stuck in the 1980s, with mediocre selections, and even more boring concoctions. Not so at MacCallum! The food here is firstrate. On top of that, at this gem of a dining establishment, you have numerous choices of where to dine and drink: outside on the porch (perfect for dogs); inside at the cozy Victorian Era bar for an aperitif or nightcap; inside at the Conservatory with glassed-in

views of the verdant gardens; or in two cozy, intimate dining rooms with their own fireplaces. We chose the outdoor porch for Gaston and Alphonse, and got to greet everyone arriving at the restaurant that night.

Again, the wine list tends toward the local varietals from Anderson Valley, so we ordered the Lichen Pinot Gris. What a terrific, crisp white wine at a truly affordable price. Another one of my pet peeves is restaurants that put “heirloom tomatoes” on the menu when they’re either out of season, not ripe, or worse yet, tasteless. That’s why one of my true tests is always to order the “heirloom tomato” salad in whatever form they’re offering. At MacCallum, that means a caprese salad with homemade mozzarella and pistachio pesto, which adds an Italian tri-color visual, along with a one-of-akind color texture. When they say they’re vine ripened? They are vine ripened! These tomatoes were everything: sweet, deep red, and full of flavor. Executive Chef Alan Kantor and Sous Chef Aaron Welge clearly know what they’re doing.

House-made sourdough bread arrives with softened butter (why doesn’t everyone do that?), and better yet, without a charge! My husband ordered the special duck pasta (he called it a “duck stroganoff”) with both trumpet and lobster

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Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

Lamb sausage at Harbor House Inn

Bay Times Dines

Sbrocco Sips

Though summer is fading, fall is ramping up and bringing colorful days and cool nights. One style of wine that spans the seasonal spectrum is rosé. Made primarily from red grapes crushed quickly to gain a whisper of color, refreshing rosés are ideal with both waning summer sunsets and crisp fall days.

T hese three pinks showcase a variety of styles, grapes, and places, showing the versatility and affordability of rosé.

2023 Lapostolle le Rosé, Colchagua Valley, Chile $16 https://bit.ly/47rq7Y1

Hailing from South America, Lapostolle calls itself “French in essence, Chilean by birth.” That’s true not only in the winery’s

Rosés for Waning Summer Sunsets and Crisp Fall Days

heritage but also its expression in the bottle. Founded by the French family of Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet in 1994, the impressive winery is located in Chile’s bustling wine country town of Santa Cruz.

A lightly pink-hued, succulent-to-sip wine that’s ideal with everything from barbequed shrimp to braised meats, this rosé is made from grapes including cinsault, syrah, and grenache. Its floral freshness and fruitdriven flavors make it a high-quality pink that’s worth twice the price.

2022 Chateau La Mascaronne Rosé, Cotes de Provence, France $25 https://bit.ly/4eoH5bM

When it comes to elegance in a bottle, you can’t beat the beauty of this rosé. From the sleek bottle design to the delicious wine inside, it’s a superstar.

Superstar is an apt word to describe the wine, but also the winery’s co-founder, basketball legend Tony Parker. Though he’s made a name for himself in the American NBA, he is French by birth. His winery is in the village of Le Luc en Provence, and its wines express the hilly, breathtaking land where the vines are grown. This juicy, spicy dry-styled pink is vibrant and racy, but also

complex and layered. It’s a wine for serious wine lovers that’s seriously fun to drink.

2022 Cantina Zaccagnini Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC, Italy $15 https://bit.ly/3Zv6dt8

With its intense garnet pink color and creative packaging, this wine will catch your attention. But what is it that makes this rosé special? The name tells you everything. Born in the Italian wine region of Abruzzo, the local red Montepulciano grape is made into a hearty rosé through brief contact with the purple-hued grape skins during the winemaking process.

The word cerasuolo means “cherry red,” referring to its deep color. Overflowing with strawberry and cherry tartness that makes your mouth water, it’s a deliciously unique wine from one of the region’s top producers, Cantina Zaccagnini.

Author, speaker, wine consultant, and television host Leslie Sbrocco is known for her entertaining approach to wine and food. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her work on PBS, which includes hosting the series “Check, Please! Bay Area,” “Check, Please! You Gotta Try This!” and “100 Days, Drinks, Dishes & Destinations.”

www.LeslieSbrocco.com

Leslie Sbrocco

Tony Parker

THE AMERICAS, a program featuring composers from North, Central, and South America. “The San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band” has updated its name to “The San Francisco Pride Band,” reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity across the LGBTQ spectrum. The new name reflects extensive community feedback and aligns with the organization’s broader initiatives. The Band will be returning to the historic Herbst Theatre stage, 401 Van Ness Avenue on Sunday, September 29, 4 pm to 6 pm. https://sfprideband.org/

Disgraced, four times indicted ex-president Trump has recently vowed to greatly reshape the federal bureaucracy in a wide-ranging, raging, as usual unhinged speech at his Wisconsin campaign rally. There he pledged to ultimately eliminate the DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, redirect the efforts of the DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE to suit his means, and fire any and all civil servants charged with carrying out Biden administration policies that he disagreed with. He will order longterm prison sentences to anyone—in his actual written capitalized words—including “Lawyers, Political Operatives, Donors, Illegal Voters, & Corrupt Election Officers ... prosecuted at levels never seen before in our Country.” And this autocrat made many more radical pledges suggested by a group of ultra-conservative organizations to develop policies for the next Republican president. Sister Dana sez, “In other words, while before he was distancing himself, Trump has now CONFIRMED that he intends to implement ‘PROJECT 2025’! Be afraid! Be very afraid! And go everywhere to Queer the Vote!”

In a fierce, emotional, spine-tingling, nationwide televised debate on September 10, Vice President Kamala Harris easily put Trump on the defensive, and kept him there. Harris opened by first approaching and extending and shaking Trump’s tentative hand, and then getting under his (orange) skin for a full 90 minutes.

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popular singer—but even that joke goes on a little too long.

To the film’s credit, the magical realism is well handled. Although there are only two scenes featuring Elliott conversing with Older Elliott—with most of their exchanges consisting of phone calls—Park wisely resists having Older Elliott side-by-side with her younger self, commenting on her every action. And when Older Elliott fails to respond to Elliott’s calls and messages, it provides an opportunity for Elliott to figure things out for herself, which is valuable. (Older Elliott does, though, repeatedly emphasize that she needs to wear her retainer and that she should moisturize!)

As Elliott, Maisy Stella is appealing, but she is better in her carefree moments than her dramatic ones. Aubrey Plaza is fabulous as the Older Elliot, even if she mostly phones in her performance. As Chad, Perry Hynes White is asked to play nice and

She shrewdly, skillfully revealed exactly who she was and positively what she stood for—while her weak opponent did sorta the same, but revealed his same old self and one-trick pony of negativity, while telling us our country was currently “going to hell.” Sister Dana sez, “If anyone still has doubts after that great debate, they must be suffering from Trump AMNESIA. Do they not recall the HELL that Trump brought during his terrible reign as ruler of AmeriKKKa?!”

Sister Dana sez, “During the debate, Harris kept tossing out the bait, and Trump kept taking the bait like the fish that he is. As TV’s Jimmy Kimmel remarked, ‘I’ve never seen such master baiting!’”

Taylor Swift encouraged her fan base to vote for Joe Biden in 2020, and voter registration SPIKED. Sister Dana sez, “I’m a Swiftie nun, and now even more than before—because Taylor Swift has endorsed Kamala Harris in a post to her 283 MILLION Instagram followers! Note: More than 400,000 new voter registrations occurred the day Swift convinced them to register! And the numbers keep climbing!”

PROJECT 2025 has become a flash point in the 2024 presidential election discourse. Dubbed the “2025 Presidential Transition Project,” Project 2025 is a framework for using the power of the federal government to impose “traditional family values” and a Christian Nationalist agenda across the country. It’s evil. But how would it target LGBTQ equality, civil liberties, and human rights? Join me at the upcoming HORIZONS FORUM on Zoom—free with advanced registration—on Wednesday, September 25, 5–6 pm, for PROJECT 2025: A FRAMEWORK FOR THE EROSION OF LGBTQ CIVIL RIGHTS, a virtual public discussion about the implications of Project 2025’s blueprint for the LGBTQ community. It will be featuring HORIZONS FOUNDA -

noble, which he does admirably, but he is also kind of bland. Even the reliable Maria Dizzia is given too little to do until she delivers a moving speech at the film’s end.

And that is what is best about My Old Ass The film kind of figures itself out, like a teenager, and then it sneaks up on viewers providing a surprisingly emotional scene or two in its final moments. Somehow, when it does this, all its flaws are absolved, if not forgiven.

© 2024 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.” He teaches Short Attention Span Cinema at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute and is the moderator for Cinema Salon, a weekly film discussion group. Follow him on Twitter @garymkramer

TION moderator Francisco O. Buchting, PhD, and panelists Wendy Via and Heidi Beirich from the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism (GPAHE). Come prepared with questions to be answered live by their experts, and be a part of this important conversation! I will be asking how “Project 2025” could affect those already legally married same-sex couples. Register at https://bit.ly/3Xu1Zzf

NATIONAL HISPANIC (LATINO) HERITAGE MONTH is annually celebrated from September 15 to October 15 in the United States for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans (Latinx, Latinos, Latinas) to the history, culture, and achievements of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It began as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Johnson, and was expanded to a month by President Reagan 20 years later in 1988. The day of September 15 was significant because it is the anniversary of Independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrated their Independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.

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mushrooms, cream, mustard, shallots, and white wine. It was so good, he was licking the plate. I deemed it one of the best pasta dishes we had in Mendocino. I ordered light that evening, so I had the special soup. A coconut curry soup arrived, with shrimp and chicken stock and a “kick” of cilantro, chilis, and Asian spices that made the dish sing. MacCallum’s homemade coffee fudge swirl ice cream with real caramel sauce was a perfect topper to the evening, partly because of the crispy accompanying pistachio and anise biscotti.

For lunch, Café Beaujolais’ The Brickery is truly a hidden gem. You amble down a brick walkway next to the restaurant to a surprising floral garden paradise. It’s a casual place where you order at the window, and sit at tree-hewn tables while you wait for your meal. The eatery specializes in numerous pizzas (the sausage pie is excellent) and a selection of salads, along with several craft beers and local wines. It’s divine—and also dog friendly.

Play

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens outside of Fort Bragg are a 47-acre wonderland of perennials, roses, succulents, camellias, rhododendrons, fuchsias, magnolias, and dahlias. Best of all, well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome. You can take your time wandering the paths through landscaped and wilderness gardens, all on your way to the most spectacular and unexpected ocean views.

Located on the property at the Stanford Inn & Resort, Catch A Canoe and Bicycles, Too offers canoes, kayaks, catamarans, and bicycles. We didn’t take part in this activity on this trip. But during our last

Join PRC at their signature annual fundraiser, MIGHTY REAL , when they celebrate their clients’ journey as they imagine the possibility of a better life, inspire the motivation to take the first step, and act to make it a reality. October 4, 6:30 pm, The Pearl, 601 19th Street. Named after the signature song, “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real),” of PRC’s patron saint and greatest benefactor, “Queen of Disco,” Sylvester, this event pays homage to the star who benefited from PRC’s services and, in turn, gifted his future music royalties to PRC. There will be more info in my October 3 column. In the meantime, go to: https://prcsf.org/

Another Government Shutdown looms as Congress grapples with a funding bill that is set to expire October 1. Speaker Johnson had to remove it because it had attached the anti-voting SAVE ACT requiring— among other bad pork—proof of citizenship to vote. Congressional Democrats were against it, and remarkably some Republicans joined them. Sister Dana sez, “Here we go again! Anti-immigrant, hate-mongering rhetoric flows from Trump into our Halls of Congress! Do NOT shut down our Country!”

Mendocino trip, we rented a dog-friendly catamaran that even our then dogs, Shasta & Whitney, thought was the bomb! You can easily while away a morning or afternoon down the lazy river while admiring the astounding views of redwoods covering the neighboring hillsides.

Navarro Vineyards in the Anderson Valley has astounding views of the basin and its surroundings. The tastings are, unbelievably, only $10 for non-members (and free for members)! You can also bring your own picnic lunch and sit outside (with your dog), dining al fresco, while enjoying one of the best pinot blanc wines this side of Alsace.

Stanford Inn & Resort: https://stanfordinn.com/ Harbor House Inn: https://www.theharborhouseinn.com/ MacCallum House: https://www.maccallumhouse.com/ Café Beaujolais and The Brickery: https://bit.ly/3XKhqol Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens: https://www.gardenbythesea.org/ Catch A Canoe and Bicycles, Too: https://catchacanoe.com/ Navarro Vineyards: https://bit.ly/3XWdy41

David Landis, aka “The Gay Gourmet,” is a foodie, a freelance writer, and a retired PR maven. Follow him on Instagram @GayGourmetSF or email him at: davidlandissf@gmail.com Or visit him online at: www.gaygourmetsf.com

KRAMER

LANDIS

Fifth Annual African Arts Festival

The fifth annual African Arts Festival was held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, on the Great Lawn at Yerba Buena Gardens. Co-presented by Duniya Dance and Drum Company and the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, the event is a family-friendly celebration of live music and dance representing regions of Africa and the African diaspora. In addition to special activities for children, the festival includes vendors offering a variety of foods and merchandise.

http://www.ybgfestival.org

“More

http://sfbaytimes.com/

pooky Season has officially arrived! Halloween decor from 6-inch skeletons to 9-foot Sandworms! We have everything you need to make your space spooky, fun, and festive!

https://cliffsvariety.com/

compiled by Rink

Robyn Adams

a Doris Fish statue” Crystal Liu

Photos by Rink

Wall Hanger Possessed Girl $249.99

Inflatable Sandworm $299.99

Disco Scream Mask $32.99

AMPLIFY! 2024

Photos by Rink

The Cheer for Life Foundation’s Annual Spirit Soirée was held on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at The Academy SF. CHEER SF is a nonprofit that, through its foundation, raises funds to support and benefit selected service organizations.

Maitri, the primary beneficiary for 2023–24, was represented by CEO Michael Armentrout and other board members who accepted the $30,000 contribution presented during the check-granting ceremony at the event. AMPLIFY! is held each year to celebrate the philanthropy of the organization’s volunteers and supporters and to kick off a new fundraising year.

http://www.cheersf.org