San Francisco Bay Times October 15, 2015 by San Francisco Bay Times

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October 15-28, 2015 | www.sfbaytimes.com /SF Bay Times

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See Interview on Page 21

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In the News

By Dennis McMillan

Protections for Transgender Foster Youth Signed into Law Legislation authored by Senator Mark Leno (and co-sponsored by the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Equality California and Transgender Law Center) that provides new protections for transgender foster youth in California was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown. Senate Bill 731 ensures that all foster youth, including those who identify as transgender, are placed in appropriate homes where they feel safe and accepted. It requires caregivers tasked with placing foster youth in homes to take a young person’s gender identity into consideration when making this critical decision. When a child enters California’s foster care system, welfare workers and caregivers consider a host of factors when choosing an appropriate placement. The Foster Care Bill of Rights gives all foster youth the right to fair and equal access to services and the right to be free from discrimination based on race, religion, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity. State law, however, does not provide specific guidance on placing youth who are transgender. SB 731 provides that direction. sen.ca.gov

Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the New de Young

Nanette Lee Miller Elected President of International Women’s Forum Northern California Chapter Nanette Lee Miller, CPA—Financial Advisor to the San Francisco Bay Times, Partner-in-Charge of West Coast Assurance Services for Marcum LLP and Co-leader of the national accounting firm’s Modern Family & LGBT Services Practice group—has been elected 2016 President of the International Women’s Forum Northern California chapter. “It is especially important at this time globally that women leaders be heard,” Ms. Miller said. “It is a time for action, not re-action, with creative solutions to our world problems.” The International Women’s Forum builds better global leadership across careers, continents and cultures by connecting the world’s most preeminent women of significant and diverse achievement. The organization is comprised of more than 6,000 dynamic women leaders in 33 countries and 74 forums around the world. www.iwfnorcal.org Sam Dodge to Replace Bevan Dufty as Interim Director of HOPE Mayor Ed Lee has appointed Sam Dodge as the Mayor’s Interim Director of Housing Opportunity, Partnerships and Engagement (HOPE), addressing homeless services and better outcomes for individuals who are homeless or live in supportive housing. Dodge served as the Mayor’s Deputy Director of HOPE and replaces openly gay former Supervisor Bevan Dufty as Director. “You have to give residents hope, and I look forward to working with Sam in his new capacity to champion our City’s efforts to combat homelessness,” said Mayor Lee. “I thank Bevan for his commitment to making a real difference in people’s lives and tackling the challenges of homelessness in our City, and for implementing this new Navigation Center model of care and compassion for residents on our streets. I also thank Bevan for his more than 30 years of public service and for mentoring and preparing Sam for this new challenge.” Dodge is a critical leader in the City’s new first-

Please join us Saturday October 17, 2015 10 am–10 pm All exhibition spaces and events are free and open to the public. Sponsors: First Republic Bank, Hanson Bridgett, Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund, PG&E, and Swinerton. Community Partners: Bay Area Graphics, BiRite Foodservice Distributors, Drew Altizer, Design Build Solutions, Gregangelo & Velocity Arts & Entertainment, NorCal Printers, Maruca Design, Pacific Coast Trane Service, Popcorn Movie Posters Company, and SD&A. Media Sponsors:

Golden Gate Park • 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco • deyoungmuseum.org PHOTO: GREGORY BERTOLINI

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Get Covered in 2016 Life-saving changes are well under way through federal health care reform, or the Affordable Care Act, and we must stand up to the challenge. We all know someone with no insurance or inadequate health care. We can help them get high-quality, affordable health care starting next month.

across California and over 93,000 of them are in the Bay Area.

In order to help more people get insured this year, I am hosting an enrollment fair with Covered California on November 1 to kick off their open enrollment period. Please come join us from 1:00–4:00pm at the Richmond Recreation Center located at 251 The enrollment challenge Assemblymember Phil Ting 18th Ave, in San Francisco. Bring ahead is greatest in the LGBT your Social Security number, lecommunity, whose members gal identification (driver’s license or state ID), proof are more likely to be uninsured. of income (tax return, W-2, pay stub) and proof of A Gallup poll conducted last year found onecitizenship or legal residency. quarter of LGBT adults do not have enough money for health care, compared with 17 percent of non-LGBT individuals. Additionally, 29 percent of LGBT adults lack a personal doctor compared to 21 percent of their nonLGBT peers. This gap is widest among women, with 29 percent of LGBT women lacking a personal doctor compared with 16 percent of non-LGBT women. Among uninsured LGBT people, the Center for American Progress found that 67 percent were without insurance for over two years and 60 percent had put off medical care in the past 12 months because they could not afford it. Complicating these figures is the lack of awareness about new insurance options now available through health care reform. Only 29 percent of uninsured LGBT people have heard about them. For these reasons, it is important to acknowledge the progress made in getting more Californians insured and that there is a lot more work to be done. During the first Covered California open enrollment period, in 2013, 1.3 million Californians obtained health care. Over 319,000 of them were in the nine-county Bay Area. Last year, we added another 495,000 individuals

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If you are not sure what kind of coverage is right for you, we will have counselors on hand to advise you about health insurance options and eligibility for financial assistance to help meet insurance costs. Certified Covered California agents will also be on hand to enroll attendees into health plans on the spot. If you or a loved one are thinking of skipping open enrollment, consider these figures. Before the Affordable Care Act, medical emergencies were the leading cause for personal bankruptcy—over 60%. And, living without health insurance in 2016 will cost you money. When filing your federal income taxes, penalties will be assessed at $695 per person and $347.50 per child under the age of 18. Freedom from these problems and the accompanying peace of mind are just some of the reasons why it is so important for Californians to take advantage of open enrollment. For further information, please visit www.coveredca.com Phil Ting represents the 19th Assembly District, which includes the Westside of San Francisco as well as the cities of Broadmoor, Colma and Daly City.

Oakland’s Housing Crisis— Success and Moving Forward

On September 30, I along with my colleagues on the City Council held a Special Council Meeting on Housing and unanimously passed Oakland’s Housing Equity Roadmap—a comprehensive plan to address Oakland’s displacement, affordable housing production, and housing habitability challenges. This means we have taken the first step in taking action to deal with our housing crisis, but more work remains.

Out of the Closet and into City Hall Oakland Vice Mayor

when forced to move, and adopt an amended ordinance to increase the required relocation assistance amount, and apply it more consistently; 2) Fund a community-based outreach strategy to provide public education about laws protecting tenants’ rights; and support enforcement strategies that will provide the enforcement of laws protecting tenants’ rights, discourage unjust evictions, and reduce violations;

3) Promote rapid rehousing The City of Oakland is facRebecca Kaplan for those in danger of homeing a serious affordable housing crisis, with numerous residents being dis- lessness by funding a rental assistance program placed from their homes. The displacement to enable people to pay first month, last month, crisis is tearing apart families and communi- and security deposit. ties, and, in many cases, includes people be- I and Councilmember Brooks successfully got ing kicked out of their homes in ways that are a vote scheduled on the proposal to fund imillegal. Oakland has laws on the books protect- mediate responses to the housing crisis, including tenants from unjust evictions, but many ing tenants’ rights education and enforcement, do not know about the laws, and they are not rapid rehousing to address homelessness, and adequately enforced. In some cases, tenants more. It will be heard at the October 20th City are being kicked out due to fake “owner move Council meeting. in” evictions, or simply being told they must leave, and the tenants have no resources to The passage of the Housing Equity Roadmap was a success because of all the support from fight wrongful evictions. Meanwhile, when tenants are forced to relo- the people of Oakland— attending and alcate, they are, in some cases, given no reloca- lowing for the City Council to hear their testion assistance funds, and, in other cases, given timonials. For us to win this next step to fund an amount that is far too small to be able to immediate responses to the housing crisis, cover the costs of relocating. The inadequate we will, again, need all the support from the relocation requirements also encourage more people of Oakland at the October 20, City Council Meeting on the 3rd floor Chambers at evictions, and more suffering by tenants. I have been urging action since receiving the 5:30pm, Oakland City Hall. Housing Equity Roadmap this past June. That is why prior to the Special Council meeting on September 30, I submitted and urged that the following actionable items be scheduled as an immediate response to Oakland’s housing displacement:

1) Amend our relocation assistance requirements to cover the real costs that tenants face

Vice Mayor Rebecca Kaplan was elected in 2008 as Oakland’s citywide councilmember. She serves currently as Vice Mayor. Vice Mayor Kaplan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the Massachusetts Institute of Technolog y, obtained a Master’s degree from Tufts University and a Juris Doctor from Stanford Law School.

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I’m safe being me. I’m free to be out, without having to drop out.

Inspiring confidence in LGBT youth Last year, 8 out of 10 LGBT students reported being harassed or intimidated at school. And many will see no other option but to drop out due to low self-esteem and fearing for their safety. But making small changes, such as helping students identify supportive educators, can have a huge impact. In 2014, we helped GLSEN reach its goal of putting a Safe Space Kit in every middle school and high school across the country. With the simple guide, poster, and stickers found inside, teachers are creating spaces where students feel empowered, safe to be themselves, and free to reach their maximum potential. Little by little, we can all do a lot to improve the lives of LGBT students. Small is Huge.SM Learn more about our continued support of the LGBT community at wellsfargo.com/lgbt. And remember to join us in wearing purple on Spirit Day, October 15.

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Path Forged, Next Steps Needed

Ready for Her Leslie R. Katz We just finished celebrating the DCCC Ultimate Women’s Power Luncheon hosted by Leader Nancy Pelosi. Last year, the luncheon featured Hillary Clinton. This year, it honored Senator Boxer, and every year, it highlights rising women stars running for, or who are already in, Congress. Rep. Pelosi, from her very first days in office, has understood and championed the importance of bringing more women into political office, as well as being a strong and effective champion for our community. She pushed for greater funding for AIDS treatment and research, for funding for women’s health, and so much more.

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In a remarkable moment in history, a woman was recommended by a woman (Rep. Sala Burton) to be her successor in the House. Another historical, and pivotal, moment was when this very publication, the San Francisco Bay Times, endorsed Nancy Pelosi and noted how important and beneficial it would be to lift up women’s voices for our City. How unbelievably prescient—not only did Rep. Pelosi rise rapidly through the leadership ranks, but she also became the first, and so far, only female Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Watching the machinations occurring over a successor to Speaker Boehner, we cannot underestimate how difficult and delicate holding such a position can be, and Leader Pelosi brought her colleagues together in a strong, dignified and unified fashion. The annual Women’s Power Luncheon brings together over one thousand women, and men, to offer support for current female leaders, but also, to highlight the next generation of leadership. This year, an issues conference preceded the lunch where breakout sessions occurred so that strong and meaningful dialogues could take place. Carol King later brought many in the room to tears as she touched on her career, and then Senator Boxer took center stage. She, too, has held countless events focused on empowering women. Her annual Women Making History lunch certainly does that. Perhaps we could wish it were not necessary to have these kind of focused events, yet, at the same time, we see

Representative Nancy Pelosi

Senator Barbara Boxer

Now, more than ever, we need to make sure that the path these strong women have created for so many continues to move forward. As noted in prior columns, we have made advances in our numbers, but there is still a long way to go. Seeing what happens when we have strong female leadership, not only in terms of policy, but also in terms of the focus on training, supporting and acknowledging others, cannot be discounted.

Senator Tammy Baldwin

how important such leadership and mentorship can be. I recently spoke to a group of women in the Central African Republic about leadership, and the central theme was both to find and to be a mentor. Senator Boxer and Rep. Pelosi have embodied those precepts and countless women have benefited from their guidance. My first official campaign position was on Nancy Pelosi’s campaign for Congress, and then on Barbara Boxer’s campaign for Senate, so I saw firsthand, and was the beneficiary of, their guidance and support for other women. They highlighted the importance of training and helping those that followed, and always acknowledged those who had paved the path and mentored them.

We have one of our own, Sen. Tammy Baldwin, in the U.S. Senate, and she would be one of the first to say that when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi was there for her, and now, in the Senate, Barbara Boxer is serving as a mentor. We see what a difference it can make when we expand the opportunities and leadership of women in elected office. The San Francisco Bay Times led the way via the courageous endorsement in 1987, so once again, we continue to be…Ready for Her. Leslie R. Katz is a former member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, was the co-author of the City’s Equal Benefits Ordinance, has served on the SF Democratic County Central Committee (as Chair, and as a general member), and serves on the California Democratic Party’s Executive Board. She is an attorney with a government law, policy and strateg y practice, with a focus on emerging technologies.

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And our greatest honor is the health and happiness of our members. Learn more at kp.org/sanfrancisco.

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• Neurology and neurosurgery • Pulmonology • Urology

BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

Making LGBT Lives Visible Again

statewide campaign that alone resulted in over 5000 postcards in support of the bill. Thanks to Assemblyman Chiu, Equality California, and each and every one of you who sent in a postcard, letter, email and or fax, we were able to persuade the Governor to sign the bill and make the lives of LGBT Californians visible!

HIV TREATMENT DOESN’T MEAN GOING BROKE

Aging in Community Marcy Adelman On October 7, Governor Brown signed the LGBT Disparities Reduction Act that requires four state agencies to collect voluntary self-reported demographic information on sexual orientation and gender identity. This bill is poised to usher in a new era of improved services and smarter policy to address the health and well being of all LGBT Californians. Assemblyman Chiu, the bill’s author, said, “A fter years of being left out of statew ide demo graphic data, LGBT individuals will now be able to share their experiences to provide much-needed data to understand, and ultimately reduce, long standing health disparities that have disproportionately impacted these communities.” The passage of this bill was never taken for granted. The Governor had vetoed similar legislation in 2013— due to the cost of updating the computer systems of the identified state agencies. Assemblyman Chiu’s office reached out to LGBT activists and worked closely with them. It was an honor to be part of this effort. Equality California, the bill’s sponsor, ran a

A single individual making $58,850 or less per year now qualifies for ADAP.

The trans community has been an intriguing topic to TV networks, especially after the success of the Amazon original series Transparent, which this year won the Golden Globe for Outstanding TV Series – Comedy or Musical in its freshman season. TRANSCENDENT on Fuse TV chronicles the multi-faceted lives of a group of bold and vibrant trans women who perform at the AsiaSF Cabaret and Restaurant in SF while creating their own surrogate family. Sister Dana was privileged to view the first two riveting half-hour episodes of six at AsiaSF during a screening party. World Of Wonder, run by executive producers Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey, also is behind Fuse’s Big Freedia, the network’s highest-rated series. Barbato, Bailey, Tom Campbell, Larry Hashbarger, Chris Shifflett, Brad Tiemann, and Cameron Kadison are exec producing this one. Hashbarger

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415.777.0333

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SERVING SAN FRANCISCO RESIDENTS

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The San Francisco LGBT Aging Policy Task in its final report, LGBT Aging at the Golden Gate: San Francisco Policy Issues & Recommendations, March 2014, identified the lack of data on sexual orientation and gender identity as a key barrier to under(continued on page 26)

noted Transcendent had its premiere in Los Angeles very recently - to great acclaim. It has been seven years in the making. It stars Bambiana, Bionka, LA, Nya, and Xristina - all gorgeous ladies from AsiaSF - with special guest stars. It’s about transgender women with the courage to “become who they are.” As Hash-barger said, “It’s all about diversity.”

Sister Dana sez, “Did everybody do their patriotic duty during Fleet Week - and take a sailor home?!”

It is only in the last few years, with the recent gains in LGBT civil rights, such as same sex marriage, that LGBT activists nationwide have moved from fear (that such data would be used to discriminate against LGBT people) to understanding how much we stood to benefit from having a more precise picture of health disparities and service needs of our LGBT communities, as well as having greater access to public and private funding to address those issues.

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun

By Sister Dana Van Iquity

SPONSORED BY SAN FRANCISCO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND GILEAD

The new law requires not only the collection of data by the departments of Health Care Ser vices, Public Health, Social Services and Aging, but also requires the aggregation of sexual orientation and gender identity data, which are indicators of health disparities. They must also make this information available to the public. The passing of this legislation is a watershed moment: For the first time in history, those of us who craft LGBT health policy and deliver LGBT services will be given the means to truly improve, in the most effective way possible, our community’s health as we age.

Author Pam Tent and Sister Dana at the Harvey Milk Branch of the SF Public Library

SPARK! was the TRANSGENDER LAW CENTER’s 13th anniversary celebration at Sir Francis Drake. Master of Ceremonies was Ian Harvie, Comedy Central co-star on the two-time, Golden Globe Award-winning TV series Transparent. Josh Klipp and the Klipptones returned, partnering again with Breanna Sinclairé to perform an exciting selection of jazz standards. And, Go BANG! DJs Steve Fabus and Sergio Fedasz served up delicious disco. Several awards were given. Herman Hoying and Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP have made giant strides for transgender and gender nonconforming people. Hoying received the Community Partner Award. Reverend Louis Mitchell’s extraordinary activism has spanned decades and radically transformed the lives of many in the racial and economic justice movements, as well as LGBTQ communities. He received the Vanguard Award. As prominent speaker, advocate, and educator about laws that target trans women of color and sex workers, Monica Jones received the Authentic Life Award. Zoey Luna, a trans youth leader, and Ofelia Barba, Zoey’s supportive and affirming mom, were both recognized with the Inaugural Youth & Family Award. Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants received the Ally Award. TLC (continued on page 26)

Round About - Art for AIDS 2015 Photos by Rink

Art for AIDS 2015, held on Friday, October 9, at City View at Metreon, included a juried live and silent auction benefiting the UCSF Alliance Health Project. Originating in 1996, Art for AIDS has evolved into one of the most prominent art events in San Francisco. The Alliance Health Project provides services supporting the mental health and wellness of LGBTQ and HIV-affected communities. Visit the website artforaids.org

Assemblymember

PHIL TING

invites you to a

Covered California Enrollment Fair

SUNDAY, NOV 1, 2015 | 1 - 4 PM Richmond Recreation Center 251 18th Avenue San Francisco 94121

LEARN HOW YOU CAN GET BRAND NAME, AFFORDABLE, HIGH QUALITY, HEALTH COVERAGE!

Please bring: R Social Security Number R L egal identification (Driver’s License or CA ID)

R P roof of income (Tax return, W-2, Pay Stub)

R Proof of citizenship or legal residency

Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is appreciated. Please call

415-557-2312 or visit

www.asmdc.org/cj to register.

Co-sponsored by Covered CA Paid for by Phil Ting for Assembly 2016 #1373572

BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

Your Inner Prosecutor He and another person in line make a few sarcastic comments to each other about the clerk, and he hopes she overhears them.

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

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Examined Life

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Tom Moon, MFT The Bay Times was the first newspaper in California, and among the first in the world, to be jointly and equally produced by lesbians and gay men. We honor our history and the paper’s ability to build and strengthen unity in our community. The Bay Times is proud to be the only 100% LGBT funded and owned newspaper for the LGBT community in San Francisco. Dr. Betty L. Sullivan Jennifer L. Viegas Co-Publishers & Co-Editors

Abby Zimberg Beth Greene

Design & Production

Kate Laws Business Manager Robert Fuggiti Calendar Editor

Henry maneuvers his shopping cart into the shortest checkout line in the market. Tired and hungry after a long day’s work, he’s in a hurry to get home and make dinner for his partner and himself. Unfortunately, the checkout clerk is as slow as molasses. She can’t seem to remember the prices of anything, and seems completely unfocused on what she’s doing. Henry feels his righteous indignation mounting as the minutes tick by. How can this big supermarket chain be so contemptuous of its customers as to hire such brain dead employees? He sighs loudly and shifts his weight from one foot to another to signal his displeasure.

Another store employee arrives to bag groceries and asks the clerk, “Are you doing okay?” She replies, “I’m all right. I’ve only got one more hour, and then I can go to the hospital and see him.” Their conversation makes it clear that she’s referring to her husband, who is in the final stages of terminal cancer. Henry awakens as if from a trance. His first reaction is shame at his selfpreoccupation, and then he feels a wave of sadness and compassion for the clerk who has to work at a market full of impatient and rude customers while her husband lies gravely ill in a hospital bed. His impatience gone, he quietly waits his turn. When he arrives at the front of the line, he searches for something comforting to say to her, but he’s afraid of embarrassing her, so he just makes eye contact and offers her the warmest smile he can. As he carries his groceries out of the store, he looks at the people around him and realizes how rarely he ever gives a thought to what’s going on in the lives of all the strangers he passes as he rushes through his day.

Most people can probably recall some incident like this from their own lives. We’re all skilled at personalizing the events that go on around us. Just as most of us have an “inner critic” that harshly critiques our own behavior, we also have an “inner prosecutor,” which builds cases against other people. The prosecutor creates stories about how the incompetence, stupidity or hostility of others is ruining our day and making us miserable, The more this part of ourselves convinces us to be hyper vigilant for violations of our “rights,” the more we live in an inner prison of agitation and fantasies of victimization. That isn’t to say that it’s not important to see other people realistically, or that there is no place for moral judgment. But chronic casemaking is a form of obsessive thinking that only makes the annoyances of daily life feel worse. When we do it, we increase our stress as well as the likelihood of over-reacting and making matters worse. There are some simple steps anyone can take to overcome the all too natural self-centeredness of the human brain. The first is just to notice how your stress level rises when you’re doing it, and then to do your best to relax the sense of being personally targeted. Notice when you make

assumptions about the character and intentions of others and question them. Don’t believe everything you think! Maybe that driver in the car in front of you slowed down for a reason you can’t see, and doesn’t deserve an impatient honk. Pay careful attention to the changes in your mood that result when you question your casemaking instead of just letting it run automatically. It also helps to remember that, while the habit of case-making may be deeply ingrained, so is the capacity for compassion, and we can intentionally feed and strengthen this capacity. If, for instance, you deliberately direct your attention to sensing the ways in which the other person is suffering, you’ll probably find that they start to move from the “them” to the “us” category. Your compassion won’t let them off the hook or weaken you, but it will make you feel better. The more we teach ourselves to take what is going on around us less personally, the easier we’ll find it to live in a more relaxed and peaceful state. Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. To learn more, please visit his website at tommoon.net

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Mario Ordonez Juan Ordonez Distribution

CONTRIBUTORS Writers Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Kirsten Kruse, Kate Kendell, Heidi Beeler, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Terry Baum, Gypsy Love, Rafael Mandelman, Kit Kennedy, Phil Ting, Rebecca Kaplan, Leslie Katz, Philip Ruth, Bill Lipsky, Karen Williams, Donna Sachet, Gary Virginia, Zoe Dunning, Marcy Adelman, Stuart Gaffney & John Lewis Brandon Miller, Jamie Leno Zimron Rebecca Kaplan, Thom Watson, Courtney Lake, Michele Karlsberg Photographers Rink, Steven Underhill, Phyllis Costa, Paul Margolis, Chloe Jackman, Bill Wilson, Jo-Lynn Otto, Sandy Morris, Abby Zimberg

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COLORS

GLBT Fortnight in Review By Ann Rostow She’s Still Standing My friends, I thought I was done with Kim Davis back in August. Yet every two weeks, the minute this column goes to press, the unpleasant Kentucky clerk manages to generate another headline or two that obliges us to recap her latest antics. Once again we f ind Kim and company on our story list, and I can only wonder what they will come up with a few days or week from now that will force us to run up her minutes of fame. When I first heard that Kim and her latest husband had a private interview with the pope, I didn’t believe it. Then, I was disgusted and felt betrayed by the kindly pontiff. After another few news cycles, it seemed as if Francis was manipulated by his conservative subordinates. And then we heard from the pope’s former student, a gay man who did indeed spend fifteen or twenty private minutes with the pope along with his husband and some friends. The Davis meeting, by contrast, was part of a meet and greet between the pope and various strangers, organized in part by the Vatican’s antigay U.S. ambassador, Carlo Maria Vigano. In the end, the publicity stunt backf ired. The outcry in the U.S. was overwhelmingly negative. Davis and her lawyers overplayed their hand by exaggerating the situation, drawing annoyed terse statements from Rome as the pope attempted to distance himself from their toxic activism. So what will be next? Will we be reading about Kim Davis in the October 29 issue of the San Francisco Bay Times? Maybe. She and her lawyers are still pursuing their pointless litigation. That said, for all the irritation, I still believe that our community benefits whenever Davis and her nasty entourage find the spotlight. As long as it’s Davis who personifies the fight for “religious freedom,” we win. For now, however, enough is enough. Worst Aunt Ever I’m back from an extended foray into cyberspace where I read about the fifty-something woman from Manhattan who is suing her 12-year-old nephew for $127,000 because he jumped into her arms when she arrived at his eighth birthday party and injured her wrist. Yes, four years ago the little boy rushed his mother’s sister, screaming, “Auntie Jen, I love you!” and leaping at her, leading her to fall and break her wrist. Oddly, she didn’t complain at the time because she didn’t want to spoil the party. Now, years later, her wrist still bothers her, making it difficult to hold an hors d’oeuvres plate at cocktail parties, she testified in court. Oh, and in case you’re wondering how a 12-year-old could rustle up a six-figure settlement, one article implied that his mother, who died a year ago, left him money in a life insurance policy. I tried to check to make sure this incident was not an urban legend, but it appears to be a true story. And like most of my original Internet discoveries, I expect it to be common knowledge by the time you read this column since I never seem to unearth the type of hidden tidbit that you won’t find anywhere else. Still, it’s worth a few lines for us all to pause and regard, with humility, the depths to which our shared human spirit may sink. What a lowlife! Come Out Come Out Last time around, I skipped over the mini-controversy ignited when Matt Damon said actors should keep their sexuality and private lives a mystery in order to better portray the various characters they inhabit in their roles. Well, he said something like that and

he was referring to gay and straight actors alike. I understood his larger point about acting. There are certain actors who are so public that you feel as if you’re watching the person, not the character. That said, heterosexuality is taken for granted, it’s only homosexuality that would have to be hidden. And hiding your homosexuality would entail forgoing marriage and family, so Damon deserved the criticism that followed his remarks, and indeed, he walked them back. Further, the clueless comment implied that a straight actor can play a gay man or a lesbian, but an openly gay actor would not be believable in a straight role. That’s as ludicrous as the notion that a devout Christian can’t play an atheist or a married mother of three can’t play a single CEO. These are actors! That’s what they do. But lastly, we all recognize by now that the closet is a debilitating place to live. October 10 was Coming Out Day, an important annual reminder that to hide your sexuality is to surrender to negative social forces that every GLBT individual should be fighting in their own way (and simply being open is one way to fight them). Those forces were once pervasive and dangerous. They are now isolated and weakened, but for those who still live in that atmosphere, coming out is hard. But let’s be honest and politically incorrect. As a rule, it no longer takes tremendous courage to come out of the closet in today’s America as an adult. Unless you’re a pro athlete or surrounded by evangelical Christians, it does not carry the terrifying sense of personal exposure that it once did. Oh, and maybe if you’ve been in the closet for decades you might be stuck there at this point. But let’s agree that famous actors, with the possible exception of John Travolta, don’t have much of an excuse for pretending to be straight when they’re not. Lastly, did anyone out there see Matt Damon’s fabulous performance as Liberace’s boy toy in HBO’s “Behind the Candelabra?” So what is it, Matt? You can convincingly switch hit for the camera, but a gay actor can’t? I Was a Teenage Bear Many people over the age of 12 do not dress up for Halloween, but then again, we are writing to a San Francisco readership that considers Halloween one of the major holidays of the year. With that in mind, here are a few of this year’s most popular GLBT costumes, as compiled by some website that I don’t want to retrieve at the moment. Number one, you know it, Kim Davis! Get yourself a stringy wig, a weird apron dress that comes down to your knees, wire-rim glasses and a crazed expression and there you go! More difficult, but no less timely, would be a Caitlyn Jenner outfit or a pope mask. Or if you really want to put some effort into it, you could go as Empire’s Cookie Lyon. They also suggested Pizza Rat, although I’m not sure how that would be tailored. I guess you’d put on a rat face and whiskers and carry around a slice, right? Last, you could wear that gold and silver dress that befuddled everyone on the Internet earlier this year because some people thought it looked blue or something. Nice idea, but where would you get the dress? I’m not sure I told you the story of the one time I went to a costume party as an adult. I was in my late twenties and it was a big wingding, so my partner and I decided to rent real costumes. I went as a bear, with a bear head, bear paws, bear suit, the whole deal. It looked great in the store, but, of course, I immediately had to re-

move the head and a paw in order to eat, drink and smoke. Worse, I had to carry these pieces around the whole night or risk losing a deposit. The experience made me question my core ability to think in advance and make decisions. It was a party. Did it even occur to me that I would be obliged to remove most of the costume at once and wander around all night in an unf lattering brown fuzzy suit with one paw? No. I never gave it a thought. Readers. Don’t be that girl. Big Gay Diplomatic Corp My news list includes numerous bits and pieces. Our gay ambassador to Denmark, Rufus Gifford, married his partner so congratulations to him. Did you know that we now have six gay ambassadors? In addition to Gifford, gay ambassadors serve in Australia, Spain, Vietnam, and the Dominican Republic. We also have a gay ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Under the circumstances, I’d say it was high time we had a lesbian ambassador. Nancy Pelosi went to New York’s Big Gay Ice Cream store with comic Larry Wilmore, where she dished the GOP over a hot fudge sundae in her own inimitable manner. When asked whom she would throw out of a sinking hot air balloon— Boehner, McConnell or Trump—she said (with no hesitation) that she’d toss all three of them overboard.

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ASSURANCE

TAX

ADVISORY

There was a mix of headlines about the latest gay gene study, which as usual, concludes that sexual orientation is indeed genetic. That’s all well and good, but most of the stories noted that the researchers from UCLA used a sample pool of three people and then skewed the results to suit their hypothesis. Okay, maybe it was more than three, but let’s just say that their methodology reportedly did not meet scientific standards. And the Christian Right is now ready to boycott Campbell’s after the company aired a cute ad featuring two gay dads who are feeding their son some Star Wars soup. The American Family Association’s hectoring subsidiary, One Million Moms, said Campbell’s “should not be highlighting who is attracted to whom or who sleeps with whom,” as if the commercial was staged in the master bedroom instead of the kitchen table. It never fails to amaze me how antigay conservatives inject sex into everything remotely gay and then accuse us of f launting our sexuality in the most innocuous contexts. Oh. The good news for Campbell’s is that boycotts from the American Family Association and their ilk have had zero impact on corporate bottom lines. That’s not surprising given that obedient Christian consumers are now in the position of having to boycott the vast majority of commercial enterprises in the U.S. Can There Be Too Much Lesbian Sex? Lea Seydoux, who won a top award at Cannes for her performance in the steamy lesbian romance ”Blue is the Warmest Color,” is gracing the cover of Vogue and is about to hit screens as the latest Bond girl, ergo she is in the news these days. I was reading along with little interest when I noticed that she said filming “Blue” was an awful experience and that she’d never work with director Abdellatif Kechiche again. Say what? The 2013 Palme D’Or went to Seydoux, Adele Exarchopolous, and Kechiche, along with mostly rave reviews for the film that features Seydoux as Blue and Exarchopolous as her younger lover, Adele. I finally (continued on page 26)

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Read more @www.sfbaytimes.com and check us out on Twitter and Facebook. BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

Castro Street Fair 2015 - Celebrating Cookie Dough Photos by Rink

“Always the first Sunday in October” is the Castro Street Fair’s promise, fulfilled this year on Sunday, October 4th. The 2015 Castro Street Fair marked the 37th anniversary since the founding of the Fair by Harvey Milk, who was then the owner of a Castro camera shop. This year’s fair, celebrating the memory of drag superstar Cookie Dough, included hundreds of local artists, vendors, craftspeople and organizations lining the streets, along with live entertainment stages and designated sections for dancing. Congratulations to the Castro Street Fair organization’s Board of Directors, staff and volunteers on yet another successful fair. Visit the website: castrostreetfair.org

BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

Post Fleet Week: LGBTs During the World Wars

Student- 12th Grade What I Missed In Class Visibility is a concept that most tenth graders can comprehend in the beginning of sophomore year, but are they being told the whole story? We learned in our LGBTQ class that history is a multi-factored topic, revolving around different sides of opinions, facts, and missing information. High school social studies teachers have the difficult task of picking and choosing what information will most benefit the class, but when this happens, we lose vital pieces of information. My question to these history teachers is: Is the information we are not learning not being taught because it is not available, or is it because no one is brave enough to teach it? In the first weeks of September, my liberal art high school’s LGBTQ class gave us a do-now. The prompt was, “Why might some LGBTQ people have been happy to have homosexuality acknowledged as a psychological disorder?” My first response, pen to paper, was, “I have absolutely no idea.” We talked about the answer in class and came to the conclusion that just mentioning the topic of LGBTQ in any context gave the idea of visibility to the gay and lesbian community. Even if homosexuality was being discussed as a disease, it was still being talked about and other gay/lesbian people could find community through these “medical discoveries,” which came to a head during the World Wars. During WWI and WWII, homosexuality was first being introduced as a medical condition that could possibly be cured. Left and right, soldiers in in the U.S. military were being dishonorably charged for being “emotionally unstable” and “easily succumbed to spy influences.” Although today we recognize this information as unconstitutional, this topic brings up the importance of community. With nowhere to go after leaving the military, enclaves for the LGBTQ community were being formed in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York. Those soldiers who were able to stay in the military found hidden gay communities that helped other gay soldiers to be able to explore their sexuality. In class, we read a deeply coded love letter from one soldier to his partner in a different platoon whom he had fallen in love with. By viewing the more personal side of war, we were able to see the true emotions of those involved in the gay and lesbian communities during WWII, whether they were feelings of being scared or being in love. Through acceptance in these distinct areas, gay and lesbian hubs attracted members of the LGBTQ community who have not been able to experience a life of openness and personal freedom. These enclaves created safe houses where young and old gay/lesbian people could come to be safe, feel accepted, and even find love.

BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

As a seventeen year old who has lived in San Francisco my entire life, my little SF bubble has finally caught up to me these past years. I wonder if it is better for us to keep innovating socially as the “gay capital of America,” or if this excessive love and affection has hindered us from trying to explore why the rest of America isn’t like this at all. I hope that through the visibility of these rapidly growing LGBTQ communities, more people

can be open minded about gay and lesbian people. Student- 12th Grade WWII Dishonorable Discharges

I rarely heard about LGBTQ experiences in my 12 years of history classes. I guess it was never really considered important enough to include in our textbooks. Combine that with the fact that six years ago, I would have felt awfully uncomfortable learning about people whose experiences explicitly highlight flaws in various societies, and our human tendency to misunderstand each other’s stories. One of the many cases we looked over in LGBTQ Studies were the gay and lesbian experiences in the military during WWII. They weren’t exactly…mmm…positive, to say the least. In class, Ms. Schlax shared a series of primary documents from WWII. They included a form discharging a South Carolinian private. Section VIII, Article 615-360, disqualified gay men and women from re-enlisting, or receiving veteran benef its once they were sent home. Multiple newspapers stood against discharging servicemen based on their sexuality. They argued that the law provided draft dodgers an easy way out, while keeping loyal citizens from serving their country. The dominant culture unfairly and unjustly feared homosexual existence as a sort of threat to societal order. In 1966, the SF Examiner reported that Reverend Charles Lewis, a North Beach Mission Pastor, had challenged the perspective that “homosexuals [were] security risks.” That same year, the Committee to Fight Exclusion of Homosexuals from the Armed Forces (CFEHAF) reported that thousands of veterans were discharged simply for being gay. Gay and lesbian allies wanted service members to at least be given honorable discharges. The “dishonorable” labeled their desires (not actions) as “equivalent to treason, murder, larceny, and rape” (CFEHAF). Such a disproportionate punishment was unarguably discriminatory, and an insult to our nation’s promise to provide liberty and justice for all. Other arguments fighting to end violation against their rights included that no man who wanted to serve in the army would sanely answer “yes” to the mandatory question: “Are you attracted sexually to men?” Therefore, some gay men were able to defend our nation without being discovered. Serviceman Brian Keith recounted his undiscovered relationship in an unsent letter to Dave. He described the heartbreak he experienced when they were separated on “a secluded beach beneath the starstudded velvet of an African night, and the tears that would not be stopped as…[he] watched [Dave’s] convoy disappear.” Having kept their feelings invisible clearly undermined the assumption that homosexuality threatened our safety. In addition to the gay population number being entirely inaccurate, disqualif ication was entirely irrelevant to their ability to fight. The CFEHAF took this legislation as an “insult to the moral character of [the USA’s] fighting men,” and explicit

PHOTO BY JO LYNN OTTO

Teacher Lyndsey Schlax of the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts is teaching the nation’s first onsite high school LGBT course, according to district officials. In this column, students from her class will be anonymously sharing with the San Francisco Bay Times their thoughts about related matters, and what they are learning in the groundbreaking course, “LGBTQ Studies.”

Student Voices “mistrust of a person’s willingness and capacity to defend his country.” Although studying unfamiliar perspectives can easily make me feel uncomfortable, it is nevertheless important to acknowledge them. The newly introduced narrative provides a lot of insight on why the early LGBTQ community flourished and continues to prosper in the cities where many veterans were discharged to. I think I understand much more about why finding their tribe can be so important to some gay and lesbian people. Those who grew up enduring a level of isolation were able to find people who shared not only the same feelings, but also underwent similar stories of misunderstanding and rejection. Student- 12th Grade Creating Enclaves In history classes, students learn about many awful things that happen in wars, particularly the f irst and second world wars, (or so they think). Little do many students know, much of the important history of the LGBTQ community is not even mentioned. Students aren’t told that during WWII, homosexuality was categorized as a mental illness and anyone found to have this “mental illness” was dishonorably discharged. Once these veterans were released, they often did not go home, for fear that everyone in their community would no longer respect or accept them because of their sexuality. So where did they go? New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco turned into destinations for homosexual people, who worked to create large, accepting enclaves within these port cities. Many thought they were alone, that they were never going to be able to live a happy life because of their sexual orientation. What they found out once they got to these enclaves was that there were, in fact, many people like them who were fighting for the same cause and had had very similar experiences. Once it was known that there were places where gay and gender non-conforming people were accepted, more people began to move to these cities. These cities became a place of refuge for people who identified as LGBTQ. If we dismiss this history, we are denying visibility for people who have struggled. The history of LGBTQ people should be taught so that people who identify as LGBTQ do not feel alone. They should know that there have been people like them as long as humans have recorded history, and that there still are. People who identify under the LGBTQ umbrella may feel less alone and less like they aren’t “normal” if they knew that they aren’t the only one who feels the way they do. We know black history; we know white history. Why not learn gay history, too? For more information about the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts, please visit http://www.sfsota.org/ Lyndsey Schlax has been a teacher in the San Francisco Unified School District since 2008. She is uniquely qualif ied to address multiple areas of LGBT studies, having also specialized in subjects such as Modern World History, Government, Economics and U.S. Politics. She is a National Board Certified Teacher, and earned her M.A. in Teaching at the University of San Francisco.

A MONTHLY HIGHLIGHT FROM THE DE YOUNG AND LEGION OF HONOR

10 Years of the New de Young

Photos courtesy of FAMSF

On October 15, 2005, amid celebrations, speeches and ceremonies, the people of San Francisco welcomed a new museum building unlike anything they had ever seen before. A decade later, this striking architectural landmark has been woven into the cultural fabric of our city, hosting groundbreaking exhibitions, iconic art and landscape commissions, pioneering performances, and unforgettable events.

2000. Today, the de Young is one of the most visited art museums in the country, and a landmark in the city of San Francisco. The museum showcases the institution’s significant collections of American painting, sculpture, and decorative arts from the seventeenth to twenty-first centuries; art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas; costume and textile arts; and international modern and contemporary art.

1894: Origins of the de Young

Save the Date!

The de Young museum originated as the Fine Arts Building, constructed for the California Midwinter International Exposition in 1894. Following the exposition, the building was designated as a museum for the people of San Francisco.

On Saturday, October 17, Community Day will be held at the de Young. Admission will be free from 10 am to 10 pm.

Construction and Opening June 2002 marked the groundbreaking for the new de Young building. Construction moved forward over the next three years, as the structure slowly rose above the trees of Golden Gate Park. The museum reopened its doors to the public in October 2005, four years after the old building closed in December

Music ensembles, art-making projects, presentations honoring the diverse cultures represented in the museum’s collections and much more will be featured, with events taking place throughout the entire museum. Complimentary timed tickets to the exhibit Jewel City will be available at the Main Level ticket desks. (See the October 1 issue of the San Francisco Bay Times for more about Jewel City.) For additional information about the 10th anniversary of the de Young, please visit http://www.10year.deyoungmuseum.org/ “Pixilated photographs of the tree canopy in the park were used as a point of departure for the design of the museum’s copper skin. A computer program transformed the images into an abstract pattern of dimples, bumps, and perforations.” —Diana Ketcham

SF Bay Times Photographer Rink Featured in New York Exhibit Three images taken by legendinto four primary themes: Home, ary San Francisco Bay Times phoWork, Play and Fantasy. “Home” tographer Rink are featured in presents domestic interiors and evthe Leslie-Lohman Museum of eryday life: individuals, couples, Gay and Lesbian Art exhibit, On and families in living rooms, bedthe Domestic Front: Scenes of Everyrooms, and bathrooms; as well as day Queer Life. Curated by James in “homes away from home,” such M. Saslow, it runs through Ocas hotels, motels, RVs, and hospitober 25 and is at the museum’s tals. SoHo location in New York City. “Work” focuses on the feminist The exhibit’s theme is timely in a goals of breaking down occupadecade that has seen the unpreceRink Foto, American (dates unknown) Divine on the Loose, tional gender stereotypes and indented mushrooming of same-sex 1977 creasing access to employment marriage, child-rearing, and dodemanding the right to do what everyand independence. “Play” inmesticity increase in acceptance both one else does. Queer genre imagery cludes social and recreational activities legally and socially. The thrust of queer is therefore a tool to secure what the and spaces from gyms and swimming politics, according to the exhibit’s orpools to vacation homes, bars, clubs, organizers refer to as the “radicality of ganizers, has shifted from asserting our right to be different and erotic toward the ordinary.” The exhibit is divided and theatres. “Fantasy” depicts “social

scenes that are wished for in the mind rather than observed in the body.” Rink is not the only Bay Area-based photographer whose works are featured in the exhibit. Visitors can

For more information, please check out LeslieLohman.org also see an image taken by renowned documentary photographer Cathy Cade. And, for those who cannot make it to New York, we are including Rink and Cade’s photos here.

Rink Foto, American (dates unknown) Sidewalk Diversity, 1990

Rink Foto, American (birth date unknown) Love-in, 1975

Cathy Cade, American (b. 1942) Emerson Street Household, Berkeley, CA, 1973, 1973 BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

Chaos, the Precursor to Change, Is Ruling Over Many Relationships Now moment when you shake the messenger’s hand, rather than trying to push the messenger off the cliff.

Astrology Linda Amburgey We cannot fully trust another if we are unable to maintain our autonomous self as relationships call us into negotiations. If you truly wish to be free from self-identification that habitually leaves you isolated, fearful, and disconnected, you must welcome the Cosmic assaults coming from irritating messengers jolting you to attention. Chaos, the precursor to change, is ruling over the domain of all relating right now. Sudden information, shocking behavior, and odd interactions will have you questioning your identity and all of your projections onto other people. The eyeopening disturbances will rattle the cages of your outdated ego positions that cause you to flatline in relationships. A sign that you are breaking free from your chains will be that

ARIES (March 21–April 19) Your close partnerships, like an early morning alarm clock, are about to jolt you into a sudden awakening. The true challenge here is that whatever the message, it will be delivered with an unexpected shock. If you had time to prepare for this news, you would miss the point of this life lesson, so don’t waste time trying to control your surroundings. TAURUS (April 20–May 20) The heavy load you have been carrying is now considerably lighter, and you are dancing in the Cosmic flow. However, your groove party is likely to be unexpectedly disrupted by someone or something at work. It may feel as if this coworker suddenly cuts off the music while you are hypnotically lost in the rhythm. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You have likely been coasting on what feels like solid ground in your love life. Prepare yourself for unexpected information that shakes your core into a new shape. You may find yourself renegotiating the needs of your partnership to keep up with both of your evolving needs. It will be best to choose truth over peac.

CANCER ( June 21–July 22) You crabs are known for your desire and need for a secure and comfortable home. Therefore, you may find the disruptive currents of Cosmic change unnerving, costly, and stressful to your sense of peace. Try your best to ride the shifting landscape like a surfer on a wave, trusting that you will eventually be safely planted on the shore. LEO ( July 23–August 22) The Universe will be throwing firecrackers all around your communication field. You may start feeling jumpy and over-sensitive due to the barrage of sudden explosions bombarding your once peaceful world. It is very likely to be a sibling or sibling-like person that sparks the fire of disruption. Try your best to keep your reactions direct and truthful. VIRGO (August 23–September 22) Unforeseen financial demands might shake up your sense of security and careful planning. The shocking additional expense will be a pain in the butt, but not more that you can handle. And I suspect that the Universe will make it up to you very soon, leaving you happy that you had faith through the chaos.

LIBRA (September 23–October 22) There is a powerful energy forcing you to make hard decisions around very important partnerships and relationships. Someone may drop a sudden bomb of information that doesn’t surprise you, yet still shocks you. This necessary jolt will shift you at the core of your current identity. SCORPIO (October 23–November 21) You may feel compelled to pull the covers over your head, hiding from the chaotic currents in the air. Although encapsulating yourself in a womb-like cave may serve your need for a deep healing cleanse, you will not escape entirely from the effects of the unstable atmosphere. Do your best to roll with the changes. SAGITTA R IUS ( November 22–December 21) As much as you would prefer that your social relationships be drama free and peaceful, the cosmic medicine is chaos right now. Money and resources are bound to play a part in the negotiations with friends and community this month. This taboo territory can be as awakening as it can be shocking and difficult. Be clear about what you are willing to give, and what you are not willing to give.

CAPRICORN (December 22–January 19) Disruptive changes at base camp leave you questioning your decisions in all areas of your life. People with more authority will assert an unexpected hand, leaving you shaken and unclear about how to move forward. Your most promising move is to find a compromise that will temporally serve everyone.

AQUARIUS ( January 20– February 18) Your genius plans are being disrupted by the sudden and unforeseen people who will appear in full mutinous form. Other people’s hidden agendas will cause sticking points in the negotiations. Best to ride the tumultuous terrain without rigid righteousness, and by holding loosely to your plans.

PISCES (February 19–March 20) Your f inancial matters may take a problematic sudden and shocking turn. There are always things that are beyond our control that tend to leave us feeling powerless. Try your best to roll with the unexpected, trusting that true power lies somewhere within acceptance. There will be a silver lining eventually.

Linda Amburgey has owned Crystal Way Metaphysical Center for 11 years, and has been an Intuitive Reader for 20 years. To book readings, on-going counseling for couples or individuals, events and parties, please e-mail her at ConsciousCounsel@gmail.com or call 415-218-5096.

As Heard on the Street . . . What are you planning for Halloween this year? compiled by Rink

Electra Fou

Raoul Thomas

Stuart Schuffman

Cristal Fennel

Jasper Patterson

“Dancing in Portland at the Deschutes Brewery”

“I am going to Palm Springs dressed as a caped superhero to win a costume contest.”

“Probably going to 40 parties and hand out campaign stickers”

“Going out dressed as a Halloween dominatrix”

“Performing ‘Whoa-Man! A Musical’ at the Shelton Theater show with Fou Fou Ha!”

Fitness SF Trainer Tip of the Month From Alissa Kaufmann, Fitness SF Marin Trainer:

Medicine ball slams are not only a cool variation of a squat, but they also incorporate your whole body and raise your heart rate without your having to hop on a cardio machine!

San Francisco Bay Times welcomes Troy Macfarland of Fitness SF as a contributor. Troy provides monthly tips he’s learned from his colleagues who are professional trainers at local gyms. He can be reached at tmacfarland@fitnesssf.com

BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

First Monday in October 2017

Marriage Equality John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney, Marriage Equality USA On the first Monday in October, the U.S. Supreme Court commenced a new term. To mark the occasion, Marriage Equality USA sent each of the five Justices who voted in favor of nationwide marriage equality last term a beautiful Rainbow Flag upon which attendees at this summer’s San Francisco Pride Celebration wrote personal messages thanking the Justices for upholding the Constitution. Although the Court may likely decide important cases this term regarding issues such as women’s reproductive health, voting rights, and affirmative action, we find ourselves contemplating not only the upcoming term, but also the first Monday in October 2017. When that Supreme Court term begins two years from now, a new President will reside in the Oval Office, and she or he could already have appointed at least one Supreme Court Justice. A single vote on the Court has decided many recent landmark decisions, and the next President will likely have a profound role in shaping future decisions that will have huge effects on the LGBT people and all Americans.

The Court’s landmark marriage equ a l it y dec i s ion s — t he 2013 Windsor decision that struck down DOMA, and the 2015 Obergefell decision that established nationwide marriage equality—were both 5–4 decisions with Justice Anthony Kennedy writing the majority decision. In future years, the Court may well address other key issues facing LGBT people, including 1) whether the Constitution more broadly protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in the same way it guards against discrimination based on race or gender; 2) whether laws that authorize discrimination against LGBT people under the guise of a claim of religious belief are permissible; and 3) whether federal laws that prohibit gender discrimination in employment and public accommodations, such as Title VII, include protection against sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination. We as voters and participants in the political process can profoundly affect these Court decision that greatly influence our lives by ensuring that the next President is someone who appoints Justices who will uphold the Constitution as the Court did in the Windsor and Obergefell marriage equality decisions. In 1987, a broad coalition of individuals and groups who valued civil rights and liberties organized tirelessly to successfully defeat President Ronald Reagan’s appointment of Robert Bork, an extreme conservative deeply opposed to LGBT equality. The person who became a Justice instead was none other than Anthony Kennedy. In the 2000 Presidential election, many people bought into the false message that Al Gore and George W. Bush essentially did not differ

because, among other things, Bush was a “compassionate conservative.” Of course, the two differed in many ways, none more clearly than their perspective on the Supreme Court. During the campaign, Bush declared his admiration for arch conservatives Clarence Thomas and Antonin Scalia, while Gore looked to former Justice Thurgood Marshall. Justice Marshall appreciated the Constitution’s role in protecting individual liberty and equality perhaps more than any other Justice in history, and argued Brown v. Board of Education when he was an attorney. As President, Bush appointed Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito, both staunch conservatives, who voted against marriage equality. Roberts and Alito have also provided key votes in many harmful Supreme Court decisions over the last decade, such as Citizens United, which has opened the floodgates to unlimited money pouring into election campaigns. The 2016 Presidential candidates have expressed starkly different positions on the Supreme Court. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in her September speech to the Human Rights Campaign warned: “The next president may get three Supreme Court justice appointments. We could lose the Supreme Court, and then there’d be a whole new litigation strategy coming from those who oppose marriage equality.” Senator Bernie Sanders has made a commitment to overturning Citizens United a “litmus test” for any person he nominated for the Court, noting that the decision was “undermining American democracy” and that “billionaires” should not “be allowed to buy politicians.” (continued on page 26)

An Ideal Wedding Rehearsal day prior to the ceremony! Fortunately, adults can generally adapt to the situation. On the other hand, young kids can freeze up. The wedding site full of people dressed up with jitters in the air can throw children off. I got a chuckle from this commentary I found on an officiantjudge’s website:

Weddings Howard Steiermann I was part of an ideal rehearsal the other week. I met the couple at their wedding venue, the Bernard Maybeck-designed Forest Hill Club House. We discussed logistics, chatted a bit about the weekend festivities, and then their adorable toddler took his focus away from his parent’s smartphone long enough to give me a high five! I viewed it as an ideal rehearsal as it allowed the couple to reduce their anxiety concerning the ceremony. Yes, rehearsals can help a bridal party understand where and when they are supposed to walk, stand and sit. However, I have learned over the years that rehearsals are more for schmoozing, and less for rehearsing the ceremony. Many people will forget their instructions, even if the rehearsal is only one

“…children are in a wedding for comic relief–don’t expect perfection– no one else does. It’s the imperfection that is adorable. If the Ring Bearer hesitates, or refuses to walk down the aisle, have matchbox cars, or other trinkets, in the pocket of a Groomsman, and let the child know there is a prize at the end of the aisle. Bribery works—that’s why there are so many corrupt governments in the world.” I also found this interesting from the aforementioned website: “Is a wedding ‘rehearsal’ necessary? About 60 to 70% of all weddings do not have a rehearsal. If you have a large Bridal Party, you may want a rehearsal sometime before the wedding. Most rehearsals take about 40 to 50 minutes. It takes longer than the actual ceremony because you should run through the movements at least twice and talk through each part.” I also recommend if you have invited friends or family to read or sing during the ceremony, include them in the

rehearsal so they can practice with a microphone. Have an extra copy (or two) of each reading in case they have forgotten to bring theirs. Memorization, even for trained public speakers, isn’t a good idea. Nerves and emotions have a way of sneaking in and affecting even the calmest souls during a wedding! The rehearsal is a great time to give your officiant the license and final payment (if any). Also, consider assigning someone to be responsible for ceremonial objects after the wedding, such as a wine goblet, glass (or lightbulb) that was stomped on, unity candle, ring bearer’s pillow, etc. Additionally, you can let your wedding party know where they need to go immediately after the ceremony. Will the photographer need them? Do you want them to help usher people from the ceremony to where bubbles will be blown or a reception will happen? Your attendants can help the post ceremony transition go smoothly if they know what role(s) to take on. Preparation, be it a rehearsal or through planning and communication, allows you and your attendants to relax, breathe and be more present during your special day. Howard M. Steiermann is an Ordained Ritual Facilitator based in San Francisco. For more information, please visit www.SFHoward.com

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All Faiths, All Beliefs, All Couples BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

#KateClinton

If the Pope could get John Boehner to resign, couldn’t he use his special powers to bring back Nancy Pelosi? It would be an answer to my prayers.

Arts & Entertainment Margaret Cho Provides Further Proof of San Francisco’s Magic

The stars, rainbows, fog banks and queer angels must have been in magical alignment on December 5, 1968, when Margaret Cho entered the world right here in San Francisco. The three-time Grammy and Emmy-nominated comedian, actress, singer, author and more is truly one of our city’s greats. There’s no I in team, but there’s a Cho in Chosen One. Cho’s parents, Young-Hie and SeungHoon Cho, ran the influential bookstore Paperback Traffic on Polk Street, which was then at the heart of the city’s LGBT community. She describes the diverse neighborhood in which she grew up in the 1970s as consisting of “old hippies, ex-druggies, burn-outs from the ‘60s, drag queens, Chinese people, and Koreans. To say it was a melting pot— that’s the least of it. It was a really confusing, enlightening, wonderful time.” That description is so Cho, with the humorous undertones flowing non-stop from her directness, honesty, and thoughtful perceptiveness. It goes without saying that she is absolutely brilliant, both on and off stage. Her range is extraordinary, encompassing everything from the raunchiest silly moments to astute observations about San Francisco’s most pressing current challenges. We were smitten with her from our first meetings many years ago. We were therefore delighted to catch up with Cho ahead of her two Castro Theatre performances of “The PsyCHO Tour.” San Francisco Bay Times: Do you have groupies? We could easily fall into that category. Margaret Cho: I don’t have groupies! I haven’t ever really! I mean, it’s something that I would enjoy, but I think that my touring schedule doesn’t really allow for it. I am usually leaving very early the following morning for the next tour stop, and since I am doing so many shows in such a short period of time, I can’t really party ever! But thank you, and if you are the kind of groupies who like to drink Sleepytea and go right to sleep, then you are absolutely welcome! San Francisco Bay Times: At least we have you for two performances on October 15 at the Castro Theatre. What memories–past or more recent–come to mind when you think of this landmark theater in the heart of the Castro? Margaret Cho: I have performed there for the gay porn awards, serenading Ricky Sinz with a song I had written about his very large penis appropriately titled “Your Dick,” which was spectacular. I attended with Janice Dickinson and we went to the Armory afterwards to celebrate with Violet Blue and Peter Acworth and Princess Donna. The Castro has long been my very favorite movie theatre, and I have enjoyed many screenings of All about Eve and Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? there. It really lends itself to Bette Davis movies, and she is my idol! San Francisco Bay Times: Paper-

back Traffic deserves greater credit, in our view, for strengthening LGBT power of the press back in the day. Did you ever read the San Francisco Bay Times then, and who were some influential gay people that you met in those early years? We’re not so much interested in their names, but what affect they and the community then had on you. Margaret Cho: Yes, of course! We carried the Bay Times in our front window and Armistead Maupin would do book signings at the store. The legendary Jerome Caja was an employee, and there were many drag queens and artists– diverse stars from Brian Eno to Robin Williams–who would come in and connect there. It was an incredible time and place to grow up! San Francisco Bay Times: What do you like to do, and where do you like to go, when you’re back in your hometown of San Francisco? Margaret Cho: I love to eat—this is the most important thing to do. From Mission Street burritos (Taqueria La Cumbre, which is actually on Valencia) to the House of Prime Rib to dim sum to Kate’s Kitchen and Cafe International down in the Lower Haight to my favorite pizza ‘You Say Potato’ slice at Escape from New York Pizza in the Upper Haight—I can eat my way through the 7x7 happily. San Francisco Bay Times: What has the response been like so far for the “Marry Me, Margaret” contest (where couples vie for a chance to be wed for real by Cho on stage during a performance), and are you good at matchmaking? We are guessing you are,

given your insightful nature. Margaret Cho: It’s been great, and I will be marrying some good friends at the Castro show! It’s such an honor and a privilege to do something like that, so I am very grateful! I am not such a good matchmaker really, but I can officiate a wedding ceremony very well! San Francisco Bay Times: So much of what you say resonates, especially about desiring “emotional monogamy.” Yes!!! What other qualities do you look for in a partner? Margaret Cho: I think I look for humor most of all—someone I can laugh with and who makes me look at things in a new way. Also, someone who loves to eat and cook, and talk about food, and make food the center of our existence. This is very important! Chefs are the sexiest people always! Sommeliers too! San Francisco Bay Times: You recently participated in a fantastic new documentary, “The Women’s List,” featuring Madeline Albright, Nancy Pelosi, pilot Nia Wordlaw and other notable women. You mention that “often times the women who are successful in comedy are women who don’t care what men think.” Why do you believe that’s so? Margaret Cho: I think it’s because men have such a solid sense of community and camaraderie in comedy, and that is not true of women on the scene because there are so few of us, so it’s about having a sense of security and not needing validation from men, because that is not available to female comedians. Comedy is often considered a male pastime: a traditional boys’ club where

women are not welcome. That is why women in comedy are always exceptional—they’ve had to come up virtually alone and unsupported and really, only an extraordinary talent is capable of that. (Editor’s Note: We agree, and have to add that Cho is also very humble and self-deprecating in person. Outside of interviews, she rarely talks about herself, and instead has an intense curiosity about other people concerning what they do and what makes them tick.) San Francisco Bay Times: Do you think the U.S. will have a woman President in our lifetime? Why do you think we haven’t had one so far? Margaret Cho: I would love to see a woman President—and I think Hillary Clinton had a lot of power in the Clinton administration—so we can look at it as if she has already been President for 8 years. There’s so much sexism still, and this is why we haven’t had one really yet. I mean, it’s hard to get a woman on late night TV; how do we get a woman in the White House?

San Francisco Bay Times: We can’t wait to see your show! Any chance that you’ll ever move back to San Francisco? Somehow just knowing that you are in town, like when you busked to help others last year, improved our spirits. Margaret Cho: I gave up my place in an art commune in San Francisco a few months ago, mostly because I wasn’t in town enough to appreciate it, and I really want to keep low cost housing available for artists who can actually live in the city, so I sacrificed my place to allow another artist to live there. I return to the city often, but now I am just staying in hotels and with friends! I’d really love to come back and do more busking for the homeless. I am concerned about the Super Bowl and what that means for homeless people in the city. Everything has gotten so expensive; it’s a real struggle for everyone! Margaret Cho performs “The PsyCHO Tour” tonight, October 15, at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco. The 8 pm show quickly sold out, so a second performance at 10:30 pm was added. As of this writing, some seats are still available for the second show, so see this comic genius and San Francisco treasure if you can! http://margaretcho.com/2015/05/11/fall-tour-announcement-the-psycho-tour/

BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

Eastsiders’ Kit Williamson Talks About Gay Role Models and Nudity (or Lack Thereof) in His Hit Webseries

Film Gary M. Kramer Kit Williamson, is one of those queer triple-threats: he’s an actor, writer, and director of the fabulous webseries, Eastsiders (out now at www.eastsiderstheseries.com; on DVD and digital platforms beginning November 3). The show, which just began its second season, depicts the romantic trials and tribulations of a handful of LGBT characters in Los Angeles’ Silverlake district. They include Cal (Willamson) and Thom (Van Hansis), a couple opening up their relationship to threesomes; Ian (John Halbach, Williamson’s real life fiancé), a straight guy throwing himself into a rebound relationship after breaking up with Kathy (Constance Wu); Quincy (a scene-stealing Stephen Guarino) who hangs out with drag diva Douglas (William Belli); as well as Jeremy (Matthew McKelligon) who is out of work and into a sex buddy; Cal’s sister Hillary (Brianna Brown), and a lesbian couple Bri (Brea Grant) and Vera (Vera Maio). Eastsiders offers humor and insight about dating and relationships as its often self-sabotaging characters get drunk, sleep around, and make a mess of their lives. One of the best episodes in the season has two characters visiting an STD clinic. Williamson seems to have things pretty much together when he chatted with me for the San Francisco Bay Times via Skype about Eastsiders. Gary M. Kramer: What prompted you to come up with the show and the characters and their situations? Kit Williamson: Originally I had really modest goals. I wanted to create characters I could relate to. I was frustrated by how stock gay characters are. I wanted to afford Cal and Thom to have the same opportunities to mess up their lives as straight characters do in their stories. I never had the opportunity to play a gay character. I was never cast as gay. As a birthday present to myself, I self-financed the first two episodes, and called in every favor I could call in. The cast and crew worked for free; through crowdfunding, it kept getting bigger and bigger. Gary M. Kramer: Season Two opens with Cal and Thom in a threesome, which is only one of several awkward personal connections depicted in the series. Why do you choose to explore relationships in the way that you do?

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BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

Kit Williamson: I’m really interested in the ways in which the characters are grappling with their broader place in society. We explore masculinity and gender expression with Quincy wanting Douglas to tone down some of his self-expression, to not really wanting to be the perfect lesbian married couple. All of the characters are rubbing up against archetypes and stereotypes and rejecting them. Gary M. Kramer: Did you feel a need for Eastsiders to have positive gay role models? Kit Williamson: I don’t think there’s anything wrong with promiscuity as long as everyone is communicating and safe and considerate with others—and not doing it for the wrong reasons. I’m sex positive. Anything can be self-destructive. Monogamy can be if you’re hiding from the world in your relationship. The show is not an argument for any kind of lifestyle; it’s not for or against open relationships. Gary M. Kramer: Have you had any negative response about how you depict the LGBT community? Kit Williamson: Mean gay men can be fascinating. The absolute nastiest infighting is between gay men. We cannibalize our own. The most backlash we have gotten is about the characters being flawed, slutty, drunks, and that has been from gay men. I don’t know what causes it; I’m sure it’s different for every person. Anyone who lashes out that way must have something they are working through.

Kit Williamson: I am really fascinated by self-sabotage. I think that there’s not a person I know who doesn’t fall victim to it. It’s essential to the human condition, and relatable. You’ll be disappointed if you come to this show looking for anything other than flawed, messed-up characters ruining their lives. It’s why the characters are drunk all the time. Being drunk leads smart people to do stupid things, which is what is so interesting. Some of the most interesting people I know have gone through intense phases of being horrible to themselves and others. There is something at the core that makes them feel they don’t deserve love or happiness.

Gary M. Kramer: You feature very little nudity in the show. Was that a deliberate decision?

Gary M. Kramer: What decisions did you (or the actors) make in developing the roles and their situations and relationships?

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

Kit Williamson: Yes, I didn’t want to rely on that. I don’t have a problem with nudity if it adds to the story, and provides greater intimacy. For the scenes I’ve written, nudity isn’t required, and would distract from what’s happening in the dialogue. If you want a storyline that leads to gratuitous sex and nudity, you can find it, and it’s available. I didn’t need to scratch that itch. Sex scenes are every bit as awkward as people say they are. © 2015 Gary M. Kramer

See many more Calendar items @ www.sfbaytimes.com

compiled by Robert Fuggiti

• 15 : T HURSDAY

Making the LGBT Vote Count - SF LGBT Center. Free. 5 pm. (1800 Market St.) Hear the perspectives of several LGBTQ community leaders on the economic realities facing San Francisco’s LGBTQ residents. www.sfcenter.org 5th Annual SFUSD LGBTQ Community Dinner - Aptos Middle School. Free. 5:30 pm. (105 Aptos Ave.) Meet, mingle, and share a meal with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer SFUSD parents, families, and students in a welcoming environment. www.visionsofpride.eventbrite.com Margaret Cho - Castro Theatre. $47. 10:30 pm. (429 Castro St.) Comedian Margaret Cho comes to San Francisco as part of her PsyCHO Tour. www.castrotheatre.com

• 16 : F RIDAY

Pound - Brava Theater. $20. 8 pm. (2781 24th St.) GLAAD Award winning solo performer Marga Gomez plays a cast of characters in a spoof on lesbians in film history. Through November 15. www.brava.org Amélie - Berkeley Repertory Theatre. $39-$90. 8 pm. (2015 Addison St., Berkeley) A captivating musical directed by Tony Award winner Pam MacKinnon. Extended through October 18. www.berkeleyrep.org Here/Queer Comedy Show El Rio. $5. 9 pm. (3158 Mission St.) Featuring Faith Choyce (America’s Funniest Lesbians), Sampson McCormick (MTV), and Keith

Marga Gomez’s new solo comedy “Pound’”makes its San Francisco premiere at the Brava Theater, October 15. Carey (Competitive Erotic Fan Fiction). Hosted by Irene Tu (SF Sketchfest). www.herequeercomedy.com

• 17 : S ATURDAY

Little Black Dress Run - Stow Lake. Free for members. 9 am. (Golden Gate Park) Join the LGBT Walking and Running Club for its 41st Annual Little Black Dress Run. www.sffr.org

Annual East Bay LGBTQ Youth Pride - Our Space. Free. 12 pm to 6 pm. (22245 Main St.) The only youth-specific LGBTQ Pride event in the East Bay, planned, organized and executed by a committee of youth leaders. 510-566-2739 Translife Conference - Glasser Center. Free. 9:30 am to 5 pm. (547 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa) Introducing the first-ever conference event for transgender individuals in the North Bay. www.srhealthcenters.org

• 18 : S UNDAY

Endless Summer Party Phoenix Hotel. $15. 12 pm to 6 pm. (601 Eddy St.) The GlamCocks host a poolside party to celebrate San Francisco’s “second summer” with live DJs and dancing. www.meettheglamcocks.com Macbeth – Theater of Others. $10-$20. 2 pm. (220 Golden Gate Ave.) San Francisco’s new nonprofit theater, Theater of Others, presents Shakespeare’s greatest play about ambition, evil, and the invisible world. Through October 25. www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2254601 The Other Barrio - Brava Theater. $12. 7 pm. (2781 24th St.) The sold out centerpiece film of the 2015 San Francisco Independent Film Festival returns to the Brava Theater. Also October 22. www.brava.org

• 19 : M ONDAY

Breast Cancer Panel - UCSF Mission Bay. Free. 12 pm. (600 16th St.) Join Congresswoman Jackie Speier and a panel of medical specialists from UCSF to discuss the latest research & treatment options for breast cancer. www.ucsfmissionbayhospitals.org Monday Night Marsh - The Marsh. $8. 7:30 pm. (1062 Valencia 24

BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

St.) Enjoy an ongoing works-inprogress series, featuring a variety of emerging solo performers, musicians, playwrights, and entertainers. Happening every Monday. www.themarsh.org Feminist Utopia Project Green Apple Books. Free. 7:30 pm. (1231 9th St.) In this collection, more than fifty feminist voices, including Melissa Harris-Perry, Janet Mock, Sheila Heti, and Mia McKenzie, invite participants to imagine a truly feminist world. www.thefeministutopiaproject.com

• 20 : T UESDAY

Beyond Equality: Building A Healthy LGBT Community Merrill Lynch 8th Floor Conference Room. Free. 6 pm to 8 pm. (555 California St.) Join a panel of experts for a solutions-oriented approach to improving the health of LGBT community. www.horizonsfoundation.org The Magic Flute - SF Opera. $36-$255. 7:30 pm. (301 Van Ness Ave.) A noble prince sets out to rescue a beautiful princess in this enchanting opera. Also October 25 & 27. www.sfopera.com Thunderdome - Stagewerx. $5. 8 pm. (446 Valencia St.) Every Tuesday, a rotating cast of teams goes head to head for a night theater and comedy. www.stagewerx.org

• 21 : W EDNESDAY LGBTQ Career Fair - SF LGBT Center. Free. 12 pm to 3 pm. (1800 Market St.) A showcase of leading Bay Area employers dedicated to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. www.sfcenter.org Socrates Cafe - The Commonwealth Club. $5. 6:30 pm. (555 Post St.) Each meeting is devoted to the discussion of a philosophical topic chosen that same evening.

www.commonwealthclub.org Marina and the Diamonds Fox Theater. $55+. 8 pm. (1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland) Singersongwriter Marina and the Diamonds comes to the Bay Area as part of her Neon Nature Tour. www.thefoxoakland.com

• 22 : T HURSDAY

Heromonster - Fort Mason Center Chapel. $45. Performance starts at sunset. (Bay St. and Franklin St.) A new production blending poetry, mythology, and interactive storytelling. Through November 1. www.fortmason.org/boxoffice Nightlife – California Academy of Sciences. $12. 6 pm to 10 pm. (55 Music Concourse Dr.) Enjoy a fun evening of science, cocktails and live music. www.calacademy.org This Is Our Youth - Custom Made Theatre Company. $21. 7:30 pm. (533 Sutter St.) This is Our Youth follows forty-eight hours in the lives of three very lost young souls. www.custommade.org

• 23 : F RIDAY

Fall Antiques Show - Fort Mason. $15. 10:30 am. (2 Marina Blvd.) Featuring more than sixty dealers offering an array of international art and antiques for sale. Through October 25. www.sffas.com Whoa-Man! - Shelton Theater. $35-$75. 7:30 pm. (533 Sutter St.) A satirical look at the lives of four women and the tortures in trying to find “perfection” in a modern world. Through November 28. www.sheltontheater.org The Huge - Stage Werx. $20. 8 pm. (441 Valencia St.) Anthony Veneziale and Chris Libby present an evening of music and comedy. www.stagewerx.org

• 24 : S ATURDAY

HRC SF 31st Annual Gala Westin St. Francis. $350. 5 pm. (335 Powell St.) Join the Human Rights Campaign for the 31st Annual Gala and fundraising event. www.sfhrcgala.org Reigning Queens: The Lost Photos of Roz Joseph - GLBT History Museum. $10 donation. 7 pm. (4127 18th St.) Celebrate the rediscovery of photos by Roz Joseph which give a glimpse into San Francisco’s drag culture during the mid-1970’s. www.glbthistory.org Leave It To Diva - La Peña Cultural Center. $15. 8 pm to 10 pm. (3105 Shattuck Ave.) Dance the night away with friends and the ladies of Leave It To Diva band. www.lapena.org

• 25 : S UNDAY

Inside The Maltese Falcon Tenderloin Museum. $10. 6:30 pm. (398 Eddy St.) Join local expert Don Herron for a discussion of The Maltese Falcon and it’s importance to the neighborhood, and stay for a screening immediately following. www.tenderloinmuseum.org Dog Fight - San Francisco Playhouse. $20-$120. 7 pm. (450 Post St.) Follow the story of three young marines on their last night before they are drafted to the Vietnam War. Through November 7. www.sfplayhouse.org

• 28 : W EDNESDAY Diana Nyad: Never Give Up - Schultz Cultural Hall. $20. 12 pm. (3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto) The Commonweath Club presents accomplished swimmer and author Diana Nyad as she shares her lessons in the pursuit of achieving her dreams.

“Rainbow Cable Car”

www.commonwealthclub.org Improv Workshop – Take 5 Café. $150. 7 pm to 9 pm. (3130 Sacramento St., Berkeley) Karen Ripley teaches a 6-week improv workshop with a focus on comedy. Classes are Wednesday, through November 4. www.take5cafe.net

SF Music Day - Veteran Memorial Building. Free. 12 pm to 10 pm. (401 Van Ness Ave.) A full day of live music with 33 ensembles and 148 musicians. www.sffcm.org Astronommo - SF Public Library. Free. 12:30 pm. (100 Larkin St.) Part of the international Black Women’s Film Festival, this series of short films features Black women filmmakers and actors in speculative fiction. www.sfpl.org Harp Concert and Labyrinth Walk - St. Mary’s Cathedral. Free. 4 pm to 5 pm. (1111 Gough St.) Enjoy harp music for healing and walking meditation featuring Diana Stork and Portia Diwa. www.stmaryscathedralsf.com

OCTOBER 28: The booths will be decorated for Halloween so stop by the info booth and pick up a form to vote on your favorite.

• 26 : M ONDAY

ALPINE BLUE: After taking the summer off, Alpine Blue is back with delicious walnuts and super tasty kiwis! Get your nut crackers ready!

EndGames – Stage Werx. $5. 8 pm. (446 Valencia St.) A night of LGBT improv theater hosted by Sarah Cohan. www.endgamesimprov.com Piano Bar 101 – Martuni’s. Free. 9 pm. (4 Valencia St.) Sing along to your favorite songs with friends and patrons. 415-241-0205

SERENDIPITY FARMS: By popular demand, Serendipity Farms will be sticking around until the end of the market season! Stop by for the kuri squash, killer kale, and tasty tomatoes! SHELLY'S GARDEN: Beautiful and delicious pasture raised eggs! Available every other week for the rest of the market season.

pcfma.org

1.800.949.FARM F

fb.com/castrofarmersmarket

DESIGN : LOGOMAN : logomantotherescue.com

With You In Mind - SF Conservatory of Music. $15-$35. 8 pm. (50 Oak St.) A program celebrating the intersection of composer and muse, featuring works created by composers inspired by a particular performer. www.leftcoastensemble.org

This October at the Market!

• 27 : T UESDAY

Opera Club - SF LGBT Center. Free. 1 pm. (1800 Market St.) An opera club for LGBT 60+ aficionados. Happening every fourth Tuesday. www.sfcenter.org

BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

NEWS (continued from page 3) of-its-kind Navigation Center pilot program and expanding the model. The Navigation Center provides 24/7 counselors to intake new clients, offers meals and safe shelter and connects homeless people with critical social services. sfgov.org Entertainment Commissioners Bryant Tan and Audrey Joseph Sworn in by Mayor Congratulations to openly, proudly queer Entertainment Commissioners Bryant Tan and Audrey Joseph for being sworn in by Mayor Edwin M. Lee. The San Francisco Entertainment Commission regulates, promotes and enhances entertainment and nightlife in the City of San Francisco. The Entertainment Visit NightlifeSF. org for news about events and programs to support the growth of the nightlife industry. sfgov.org Cycle For a Cause Fundraiser Benefits Castro Cares Program The public is urged to sign up for the fundraising SoulCycle session on October 17 at 1:30pm, 400 Castro Street. All proceeds go to Castro Cares and are tax deductible. Castro Cares is addressing quality of life issues with both compassion and added enforcement. Castro Cares funds additional dedicated homeless outreach workers and police officers walking a foot patrol in the Castro/ Upper Market. A Castro Cares case manager was recently able to get a homeless person with cancer into stable housing, case manage this person through surgery, chemotherapy and ADELMAN (continued from page 19 ) standing the service needs of not only LGBT seniors, but also all LGBT San Franciscans. The task force discovered early on in its tenure that San Francisco had little information on LGBT seniors and LGBT older adults, and commissioned a two-part study, as well as a series of focus groups in order to make recommendations based on actual data, rather than on estimates. Under the leadership of Chair Bill Ambrunn,

arrange for care of their pet during this time. This person is now in permanent housing and has written a letter to the case manager thanking him for his life saving support. castrocares.org Focus Group Survey Offered for Transgender Veterans By answering questions at surveymonkey.com/r/transvets regarding one’s military service and transition back to civilian life, those responses will help to streamline the discussion when you meet in person, and thus identify gaps in services, develop policy, raise public awareness and advocate for improved veterans’ services. All responses are confidential, and no personal information will be shared with anyone outside of the Swords to Plowshares Policy Department. Information from the survey will be compiled with the focus group results in a report of recommendations for services and support for transgender veterans. Swords to Plowshares phone:(415) 252-4787, ext. 350. stp-sf.org Awards to be Given Celebrating Exceptional LGBTQ Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders StartOut, a leading organization inspiring, educating and supporting LGBTQ entrepreneurs across the US, is pleased to announce the 2015 StartOut Award Honorees, selected by the Board of StartOut based on their business success and contributions to the queer community: Kara Swisher, executive editor of Re/code, host of the Re/code Decode podcast and cothe first recommendation voted by the task force was that the city should begin a policy of data collection citywide in all of its departments. In a Board of Supervisor’s Committee meeting in April 2014, Ashley McCumber, the Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of San Francisco Inc., and a member of the task force’s research team, cited data collection as one of the most critical recommendations the city needs to address.

SISTER DANA (continued from page 8) Executive Director Kris Hayashi Subhi Nahas - now living in the thanked the host committee co-chairs Bay Area - with Courage Awards. In Mark Huggins & Kristen Ver2004, Time magazine named Wolfrastro for putting on such a glorious son one of the “100 most influential event. Hayashi proudly announced people in the world,” and in 2012, he the brand new TLC co-office has been won the Barnard Medal of Distincinaugurated in Atlanta, Georgia. tion alongside President Barack Obama. Horizons Executive DirecPEACHES CHRIST PRODUCtor Roger Doughty spoke about TIONS presented another gem of the foundation, the many victories a live show, WHATEVER HAPaccomplished, and those to attain in PENED TO BIANCA DEL RIO? the future. as a delightful parody of the classic flick, Whatever Happened To Baby THE CASTRO STREET FAIR is a Jane? The Baby Jane movie perforcommunity street celebration foundmances are over-the-top, its dialogue ed by Harvey Milk in 1974. Sister is iconic (“But’cha are, Blanche! Ya Dana checked out the hundreds of are in that chair!”), and its place in local artists, vendors, craftspeople the drag canon is secure thanks to the and organizations here in the heart on- and off-screen bitchery between of the Castro. Some of my faves were stars/sworn enemies Bette Davis as follows: THE TREVOR PROJand Joan Crawford. But even betECT, founded in 1998, is the leadter was the bloody hilarious take-off ing national organization focused live show starring Bianca Del Rio on suicide prevention efforts among & Peaches Christ as themselves LGBTQ youth. Trevor noted Queer as aging drag queens at the Castro youth are four times more likely to Theatre. Heklina and Martiny attempt suicide than their straight were the nosy mother and daughter peers. thetrevorproject.org OPENnext door, Mahlae Balenciaga was HOUSE was announcing that they “Elvira the help,” and Lady Bear and Mercy Housing California are co-starred as Edwin Fagg. I know I partnering to open LGBT-welcoming say this with just about every Peaches affordable housing for older adults Production, but really - she outdid 55+ and that applications for 55 herself this time! Sooooooo clever! If Laguna are anticipated to be availyou saw the movie, you got all the inable in March 2016. openhouse-sf. jokes; but it wasn’t necessary to have org RAMP (RECYCLED AIDS seen the flick to enjoy the hilarity. MEDICINE PROGRAM) offered helpful information on how to donate HORIZONS FOUNDATION unused meds. rampusa.org BAY held its annual Gala Dinner & CasiAREA MUSICALS announced their no Party at the Fairmont Hotel. upcoming schedule of shows: How to Horizons honored Evan Wolfson, Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Founder and President of Freedom HAIR, and La Cage aux Folles. to Marry with the Leadership Award, bamsf.org and LGBT refugees and asylees Gertrude Metsiegoum & Carine and On the main stage, I caught the 26

BAY TIMES OCTO B E R 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

executive producer of the Code Conference; Andrew Tobias, author of The Best Little Boy In the World and The Only Investment Guide You’ll Ever Need; Patrick Chung, founding partner of Xfund, the early-stage venture capital firm; and Serafina Palandech, President and Co-Founder of Hip Chick Farms, a groundbreaking frozen food com. The event is Thursday, November 5, at Hotel Kabuki San Francisco. More info is available at startout.org Immigration Equality Celebrates Ex. Dir. First Anniversary Immigration Equality, a leading organization advocating for and representing LGBTQ and HIV-affected immigrants, honored its Executive Director Caroline Dessert on her oneyear anniversary leading the organization. Over the course of the past year, Immigration Equality has won 112 cases for queer and HIV-affected immigrants; advised over 1,500 families seeking to be reunited; supported 91 law firms providing pro bono legal services; responded to over 4,500 calls and emails from people seeking legal help; all while maintaining a 99% success rate. The organization also welcomed a new Communications Director, Jackie Yodashkin, who previously served as Communications Director for Freedom to Marry, the successful campaign to win marriage nationwide, and Project Director for the United Nations’ first-ever global campaign for LGBTQ rights, Free & Equal. immigrationequality.org The time has come for the city to take this important step forward. Supervisor Wiener is taking the lead in spearheading city legislation on this issue. Let’s support him in making visible the lives of LGBT San Franciscans. Marcy Adelman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in private practice, is co-founder of the non-profit organization Openhouse and was a leading member of the San Francisco LGBT Aging Policy Task Force.

SAN FRANCISCO LESBIAN GAY FREEDOM BAND; the amazing cheerleading acrobatics of CHEER SF; THE WHOA NELLIES! groovy hootenanny band; and THE ETHEL MERMAN EXPERIENCE, flawlessly femceed by DQ Honey Mahogany. Because the fair was dedicated to the late, great DQ of DQs, Cookie Dough, there was the 18th Street Cookie Dough Stage featuring D’ARCY DROLLINGER & SEXITUDE; AVENUE Q; gay allmale revue BALONEY; local band EJECTOR; and of course, THE MONSTER SHOW, co-emceed by Sue Casa & Sugah Betes. The wonderful DJ MC2 (also known as Michael Chu, Cookie Dough’s partner) played between sets. He was also sainted on-stage by The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. For the grand finale, the cast gathered onstage to lead us all in Queen’s “We Are the Champions!” BULLDOG BATHS MURALS: CELEBRATION was held at THE GLBT HISTORY MUSEUM in the Castro. The Bulldog Baths in San Francisco’s Tenderloin opened in the early 1930s as the Club Turkish Baths (a hetero steam baths). Starting in 1979, the new “Bulldog” branding emphasized a virile working-class sexual allure that reflected commercialized fantasy. The redecorated interior included murals by New York homoerotic artist M. Brooks Jones, including a few self-portraits. . Hurry! You still have time to witness this gay leatheriffic historic experience before the next awesome exhibit takes over. The 19th annual ART FOR AIDS brought together an unprecedented gathering of contemporary

MARRIAGE EQUALITY (continued from page 19) On the other hand, Louisiana Gover- times offer more nuanced statements nor Bobby Jindal said that he would about LGBT rights, one should make like to remove all of the Justices, ex- no mistake as to their approach to the cept Thomas, Scalia, and Alito. Sena- Supreme Court. Their appointments tor Marco Rubio declared, “We need would mirror those of the outspoken more Scalias and less Sotomayors,” Jindal and Cruz. They would apreferring to Justice Sonya Sotomayor, point very conservative Justices, who who among other things has voted in would reliably deliver consistent votes favor of marriage equality. Senator against LGBT rights at the Court. Ted Cruz stated at the last Republican We will face a stark choice regarddebate that the appointment of even ing the future of the Supreme Court the conservative Roberts to the Court regardless of whom the two major “was a mistake.” Former Governor Jeb parties choose as their nominees. We Bush implicitly criticized the appoint- must recognize the primacy of this ments of his own father and brother, issue to our lives as LGBT people. We Souter and Roberts respectively, by must ensure that when the Supreme saying, for example, that Roberts “did Court convenes on the f irst Monnot have a proven, extensive record.” day of October 2017, and for years Bush has also stated that he would thereafter, a majority of Justices will appoint Justices who “won’t use the enforce the liberty and equality guarbench to legislate,” well-trodden code antees of the Constitution that protect words for a social conservative. us all. We want to send more RainThe ultra conservative statements bow flags to more Justices, thanking them for upholding the legal rights of that many Republican candidates LGBT people. have made about Supreme Court Justices comport consistently with John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney, together for their anti-gay rhetoric and their other three decades, were plaintiffs in the Califoroutspokenly conservative views. Al- nia case for equal marriage rights decided though some of the Republican can- by the California Supreme Court in 2008. didates, such as Bush, try to speak They are leaders in the nationwide grasssomewhat more carefully and some- roots organization Marriage Equality USA. ROSTOW (continued from page 13 ) saw it on TV, and (to my astonishment) agreed with critics that the sex scenes were too long and verged on pornography. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with porn if that’s your thing, but I found myself fast forwarding to continue with the plot. One of the interminable bedroom romps lasted a full seven minutes. Now I read that Seydoux said that she and Exarchopolous were ordered to repeat some of these scenes up to a hundred times by a director who was living out a “male fantasy.” I guess this is old news, but it’s new to me. I’m guessing that some of my lesbian readers who haven’t seen the movie will now be fact-checking this story. If I have any straight male readers, they might want to do some research as well. Quickly, on a totally unrelated subject, the children of a Spanish duchess who married her lesbian lover on her art generously donated by some of the finest artists, galleries, and collectors in the Bay Area as a fundraiser for UCSF ALLIANCE HEALTH PROJECT at City View Metreon. The program began with remarks by AHP Community Advisory Board Chair Kate Shumate. This year’s auction presented 180 works of art in the mediums of painting, drawing, sculpture, prints, photography, and more. Patrick Walsh was auctioneer for the 19th time in a row. There was a noticeable lack of homoerotic art this year. But still, my faves: Rusty, painting with oil based lithography of a sailor in a tank top by Matt Pipes, mattpipes.com; because I am so patriotic, I Love You, California by Annie Galvin, 3fishstudios.com, acrylic on canvas of a bear lovingly hugging the state of CA; Jeremy Novy, jnovy6. wix.com, Transformation is spray paint on glass window of five koi fish representing his controversial spray paintings on SF sidewalks; Kristine Mays’ Mama’s Girl, kristinemays.com, as a black wire lattice sculpture of a gorge dress I wish I could copy in lifesize to wear as a fabulous Halloween drag costume. And everybody loved the painting by the celebrated artist, Rex Ray, Platismatia 2014, who died in February 2015 - and whose name was dedicated to the night’s event. COMING UP! THE GLBT HISTORICAL SOCIETY is presenting OPENING PARTY! “REIGNING QUEENS: THE LOST PHOTOS OF ROZ JOSEPH” on Friday, October 23rd, 7pm at The GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street. Enjoy wonderful photos with music, food, drinks, comments from curator Joey Plaster,

deathbed in 2008, are trying to nab the bulk of her multi-million euro estate, arguing that Spanish law did not allow their mother to disinherit them. (Spain legalized same-sex marriage in 2005.) The 21st Duchess of Medina Sidonia, Luisa Isabel Alvarez de Toledo, put her assets, which include priceless documents and art, into a foundation in order to keep her three children from liquidating the estate. She then married her secretary and lover of 20 years, Lilianna Dahlmann, and put her in charge of the foundation. Will these legalities be enough to trump Spanish inheritance law, which requires that at least a third of a family fortune be passed to surviving children? Her greedy children say no. Her lesbian sisters in San Francisco and Texas hope yes. arostow@aol.com and a diverse cross-section of the City’s arts, nightlife, and drag scene. glbthistory.org The San Francisco Bay Area chapter of HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN is honoring the admirable winners of three local awards presented at the 31ST ANNUAL GALA DINNER at the Westin St. Francis Hotel on Saturday, October 24th, including Frank Woo, recently retired after serving 13 years on the Human Rights Campaign’s National Board of Governors and National Board of Directors, and trans activist Candis Cayne. sfhrcgala.org HUSH UP SWEET CHARLOTTE, written and directed by critically acclaimed Film Director/Writer, Billy Clift is an homage to the 1964 Hush...Hush Sweet Charlotte film starring the iconic actresses Bette Davis & Olivia de Havilland. In Clift’s film at The Castro Theatre on October 28th, the leads are parody performances by gender-illusionist superstars Matthew Martin & Varla Jean Merman. castrotheatre.com PASSPORT MAGAZINE and THE SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE are hosting HOLLYWEEN, a night of cocktails, auctions, and dancing to benefit the RICHMOND/ERMET AID FOUNDATION. Hollyween will take over Madame Tussauds wax museum on Thursday, October 29th. hollyween.org Sister Dana sez, “I cannot believe we are again facing another government shutdown! What are these RepubliCAN’T Congress people thinking??!”

Round About - All Over Town

UCSF Center of Excellence for Transgender Health’s Joanne Keatley with event MC Ian Harvie from the TV show “Transparent”, at the Transgender Law Center Spark 13th Anniversary Celebration

Photos by RINK

REAF’s Jorge Colunga, Ken Henderson, Skye Paterson, and Stoli’s Patrick Gallineaux at the Positive Resource Center’s Windows of Opportunity reception at the SPUR Center

Senator Mark Leno, Supervisor candidate Aaron Peskin, Community College Board’s Rafael Mandelman and Austin Phillips at Peskin’s campaign headquarters

Performers, including comics, politicians, drag queens and kings, and more, at the San Francisco Political Squares, a game show and comedy event, held at the Oasis Lounge.

Lillian Faderman (right) joined the SF Public Library Hormel Center’s Karen Sundheim during an event hosted by the Hormel Center featuring Faderman’s new book, The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle.

SF LGBT Community Center executive director Rebecca Rolfe (left) with Associate Director of Economic Development Clair Farley during The Center’s Economic Justice Kickoff Month Reception

Sister Kitty, author Pam Tent, Sister Reyna Terror, the SF Bay Times own Sister Dana, and Noir Film SF LGBT Community Center’s Clair Farley and Festival’s Eddie Muller at the “Nuns Read Noire” discussion of David Talbot’s bestseller Season of Fresh! White (right) at The Center’s LGBT Ecothe Witch held at the Harvey Milk Library Branch. nomic Justice Kickoff Month Reception

Positive Resource Center honoree Beth Feingold with her Academy of Friends board colleagues Gil Padia (left) and Matthew Denckla.

Honorees Demetri Moshoyannis (left) and Beth Feingold with proclamations from Assemblyman David Chiu (second from left) and Postive Resource Center executive director Brett Andrews

Café Flore co-owner Stu Berry (center) with (l-r) Chris Walker and Bobby Blue of the Promise Kings, event producer Ras Joseph and co-star Veronica Blanco at Cafe Floré where Promise Kings entertained a large crowd of patrons

Panelists Marga Gomez, Heklina and Stuart Schuffman during the Political Squares show at Oasis Lounge

Harvey’s bar and restaurant on Castro Street has added outdoor tables on the newly widened sidewalk.

Folsom Street Events executive director Demetri Moshoyannis displays the award and proclamations presented in honor of the organization at Positive Resource Center’s An enthusiastic audience applauded for honorees at the Positive Resource Center Windows of OpporWindows of Opportunity reception tunity Reception. at SPUR on October 8.

Alix Sabin, Lia Romero, Joanne Keatley and Angel Ventura at the Transgender Law Center’s Spark 13th Anniversary Celebration at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel

Activist Trey Allen, the LGBT Center’s Breanna Sinclaire and Black Brothers Esteem’s Miss Billy Cooper at the Transgender Law Center’s Spark 13th Anniversary Celebration

Felicia Elizondo (center) with new friends attending the Transgender Law Center’s Spark 13th Anniversary Celebration

BAY T IM ES O C TO BER 15, 2015

CIty College trustee alex Randolph ▼

DIstrICt 3 supervIsor julie chRistensen

sherIff vicki hennessy

mayor ed lee

alice B. toklas deMocRatic cluB VOTE by Mail Or in PErsOn

Getting our city Back on track

aliceBtoklas.org

treasurer josÉ cisneRos ▼

CIty attorney dennis heRReRa

DIstrICt attorney GeoRGe GascÓn

Y v O tvE3 RB d no

“

San Francisco faces many challenges including addressing our housing affordability crisis, improving our transportation infrastructure, and creating a more livable city. Alice’s slate, including two female first-time candidates that have already proved their leadership, will help the city move forward in 2016.

” ElEcTiOn EndOrsEMEnTs – Supervisor Scott Wiener

elected officials

ED LEE, Mayor GEorGE GAsCÓn, District Attorney JosÉ CIsnEros,▼ Treasurer DEnnIs HErrErA, City Attorney VICKI HEnnEssy, Sheriff JuLIE CHrIstEnsEn, District 3 Supervisor ALEx rAnDoLPH,▼ City College Trustee ▼indicates that the candidate is LGBT Paid for by the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club PAC, FPPC #842018.

local Ballot MeasuRes

YES ProP A: Building More Affordable Housing

NO ProP G: Impractical Energy Restrictions

YES ProP B: Improving SF’s Parental Leave Policy

YES ProP H: Clean Energy Right to Know

YES ProP C: Broader Lobbyist Disclosure

NO ProP I: Mission Housing Moratorium

NO ProP D: New Housing, Parks and Shops in Mission Bay

no posItIon

NO ProP E: Unworkable Requirements for City Meetings NO ProP F: Short-term Rental Restrictions

ProP J: Historic Business Preservation Fund – No Position

YES ProP K: Surplus City Property Regulations