San Francisco Bay Times April 3, 2014

Welcoming The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco to the Bay Times – Page 4

April 3-April 16, 2014 | www.sfbaytimes.com

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Singer/Songwriter Audra Mae Has Judy Garland’s Genes and Her Own Show-stopping Style Audra Mae’s talent is so raw and real that she literally can stop you in your tracks. She is the powerful voice heard in Avicii’s “Addicted to You,” now playing in San Francisco clubs. The song received a fashionable boost from designer Ralph Lauren, whose team co-produced the video for the song that is now running on Vevo.com. Audra Mae is not shown in that video, but you will remember her nonetheless.

Born in Oklahoma, Audra Mae is the great grandniece of Judy Garland and is the latest powerhouse performer to come from that impressive musical dynasty (see page 17). Her great grandmother Virginia was a member of the Gumm Sisters, whose youngest member Francis Ethel Gumm grew up to be Judy Garland. Virginia was quite a performer in her own right, and later changed her name to “Jimmie.” This is a family of strong women who continue to defy stereotypes while charting their own unique course. Audra Mae certainly carries on that legacy.

On Elvis’ birthday, with just $20 in her pocket, Audra Mae moved to California seven years ago. One of her first gigs here was performing at a Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation benefit. Leave it to brilliant executive director Ken Henderson to once again discover a budding talent. Since then, she has signed a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell.

She recorded Bob Dylan’s “Forever Young,” heard on the hit F/X series Sons of Anarchy. Audra Mae also has written songs recorded by Susan Boyle, Celine Dion and other wellknown artists.

But we want to know more about Audra Mae, who is now recording her third album. (Check out her acclaimed debut, The Happiest Lamb, and her follow-up, Audra Mae & The Almighty Sound.) She generously took time for a rare interview.

Audra Mae: Yes, I did! It was my “Divine Roots Pilgrimage.” As far as Rock and Roll goes, I learned that it happened because people from different forms of folk music were inspired by each other’s stories of oppression. Especially “The (continued on page 17

PHOTO BY J BRENT K YLE

Bay Times: We heard that you recently went on a 4-month, cross-country pilgrimage to find out where and why rock and roll came about. What did you find out? Also, please share any memories/anecdotes from the trip.

Creating Community Through Music

By DJ Lamont Young (Editor’s Note: Legendary Bay Area DJ Lamont Young has been spinning music for over three decades, helping to provide the soundtrack to our lives. In addition to his own impressive work, he mentors young DJ’s and has taught over 350 private DJ lessons since 2008 from h is music st ud io in the Mission District.

We love the range of his musical choices, and the masterful way that he mixes different genres together. A set could include 1940’s early jazz, soul, funk, disco, smooth and sexy house music, the latest electronic and pop hits, and more. Whatever the mix, they all represent DJ Lamont’s soulsatisfying and distinctive, stylish approach.)

Music connects me to people. Being a DJ, I am able to share a moment or experiences with folks that I may never know personally or intimately, even though we spend countless hours

in the same environment. Choosing the right song at the right time is based on trust, musical knowledge, musical history, and a great deal of internal instincts in order to cause the response that is anticipated.

I have been playing with records for 43 years, ever since I was given my first Close N’ Play record player at the age of 5. Although I now use the latest DJ technologies, such as DJ apps, software, and computers, the basic process for me of selecting music remains unchanged. Music has remained a constant, major force in my life.

Maybe you met me at Mecca Restaurant & Bar, where I was the music director and DJ from 1997 to 2007. The first year I spun music at Mecca, I was promoted from part-time status to full-time director. It was one of the first places where I was told to put down my playlist and express myself based on my passion in the moment and the vibration of the environment.

In addition to my work as a DJ, I have strived to create a musical community beyond the night(continued on page 12)

Top 10 Tax Tips for Legally Married Same-Sex Couples Courtesy of Nanette Lee Miller, CPA

2. Non-taxable Fringe Benefits

1. Married Tax Status

Consider amending income tax returns to exclude previous taxable income that was used to purchase job-related benefits for your spouse, such as health insurance, life insurance, and other fringe benefits. Employers may be entitled to a refund of matching FICA payments on fringe benefits that are now non-taxable.

The Statute of Limitations for refund claims also applies.

Determine if there is any benef it to f iling amended income tax returns using “married” status. Marr ied tax status, as compared to single or head of household status, could result in a lower joint tax liability because of the netting of income and deductions, eligibility for certain tax credits, and income exclusions. It could also result in an increased tax liability due to the marriage penalty tax or because of limitations on deductions based on combined adjusted gross income. File amended returns as soon as possible. Amended returns must be filed before the Statute of Limitations runs—generally 3 years from the filing of the original return or 2 years from when the tax was paid, whichever is later.

3. Employer Spousal Benefits Save current tax dollars by contacting your company’s Human Resources Department for a list of marital benefits available. Take advantage of all non-taxable fringe benefits available to your spouse. Also, look for a benefit that may pay you a buy-back amount if you no longer need employer-paid benefits (because you are now covered under your spouse’s plan). (continued on page 22)

National News Briefs compiled by Dennis McMillan

Lansing, MI - Obama Administration to Recognize Michigan Same-Sex Marriages - 3.28

NYC, NY - Newsweek’s New Owners Funded Anti-Gay Discrimination - 3.31 New reporting highlights the links between Newsweek’s new owners, IBT Media, and an evangelical college that threatens to punish students if they’re caught engaging in “homosexual activity.”

The marriages of same-sex couples who wed in Michigan when marriage equality was briefly allowed in the state will be recognized for federal purposes, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has announced.

After a one-year print hiatus, Newsweek is back on newsstands and under the new ownership of IBT Media. In-depth reports document the extensive ties between IBT and David J. Jang, the leader of an evangelical Christian sect called “the Community” and founder of the Bay Area Olivet University.

“I have determined that the same-sex marriages performed last Saturday in Michigan will be recognized by the federal government,” Holder said. “These families will be eligible for all relevant federal benefits on the same terms as other same-sex marriages.”

IBT CEO Etienne Uzac and Chief Content Officer Johnathan Davis have cultivated deep ties with Olivet and the Community: Olivet and IBT are linked to a web of dozens of churches, nonprofits, and corporations around the world that Jang has founded, influenced, or controlled, with money from Community members and profitable ministries helping to cover the costs of money-losing ministries and Jang’s expenses. Money from other Community-affiliated organizations also helped fund IBT’s early growth.

More than 300 same-sex couples wed in Michigan after U.S. District Judge Bernard Friedman struck down the state’s 2004 ban on same-sex marriages. But after Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and Attorney General Bill Schuette appealed the decision and requested a stay, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals indefinitely halted the weddings pending appeal of the lawsuit.

As they criticized Snyder for withholding the state benefits, Democratic members of Michigan’s federal delegation to Congress called on the Obama administration to deem the marriages valid for the purposes of federal recognition.

Jang sees Community-affiliated media organizations, including IBT, as an essential part of his mission to build the kingdom of God on Earth. He has said that media companies affiliated with the Community are part of a new Noah’s ark designed to save the world from a biblical flood of information.

“For purposes of federal law, as I announced in January with respect to similarly situated same-sex couples in Utah, these Michigan couples will not be asked to wait for further resolution in the courts before they may seek federal benefits to which they are entitled,” Holder said.

IBT has also donated money to the college.

Guidebooks from the university’s business and journalism schools state that the university will take “disciplinary action” against students who violate “Christian standards,” including by participating in “homosexual activity.” Olivet places “homosexual activity” on a par with “drunkenness,” drug use, “cheating, plagiarism, forgery, lying,” and sexual harassment.

After a federal court struck down Utah’s ban on same-sex marriage, an estimated 1,300 same-sex couples wed in the state before the U.S. Supreme Court halted the weddings with stay pending appeal.

Governor Gary Herbert announced he wouldn’t recognize the weddings, but Holder announced they would be valid at the federal level.

Davis himself has drawn fire for having praised a 2013 op-ed by fringe “ex-gay” activist Christopher Doyle. Davis called Doyle’s piece “shockingly accurate” and lauded it for “cut[ting] like a hot knife through a buttery block of lies.” In the op-ed, Doyle argued that “a sensitive nature,” “an over-attachment to the opposite-gender parent and peers,” and childhood sexual abuse predisposed people to samesex attraction. Doyle also touted the discredited work of Mark Regnerus, who produced a bogus study claiming that same-sex parenting leads to negative outcomes for children.

The Human Rights Campaign, which had also called for federal recognition of the Michigan samesex marriages, praised Holder as having “once again demonstrated his steadfast commitment to equality and upholding the core values of the U.S. Constitution by affirming federal recognition of these marriages.”

“These legally married and loving couples shouldn’t have to wait any longer for the recognition and benefits they are entitled to under the U.S. Constitution,” Representative Dan Kildee (D-Mich) said.

“It’s my hope that Governor Rick Snyder and Attorney General Bill Schuette will also drop their appeals in this matter and recognize the inherent rights of these Michiganders to love and marry one another.”

And the facts show that Newsweek’s corporate parent is complicit in anti-gay discrimination elsewhere.

Remind me to cancel my subscription to Newsweek!

Source: mediamatters.org

Holder concluded, “We will remain steadfast in our commitment to realizing our country’s founding ideals of equality, opportunity, and justice for all.”

Saint Paul, MN – ‘Ex-gay’ Therapy Ban for Minors Fails in Minnesota, Activists Promise Reprise in 2015 - 3.27

So take that, snider Snyder!

Source: washingtonblade.com

Los Angeles, CA - Biden Talks Global LGBTQ Rights, ENDA at HRC Dinner - 3.23 Vice President Joe Biden spoke to more than 1,000 LGBTQ people and allies at the Human Rights Campaign’s annual dinner in Los Angeles, California. He spoke emphatically and powerfully about America’s commitment to advancing equality across the globe, and criticized countries like Uganda, Russia, and Nigeria for enacting anti-LGBTQ laws.

“I’ve traveled to most countries in the world,” the vice president said. “And I can tell you, they’re looking to us as an example, as a champion of LGBT rights everywhere.”

Noting that being gay is illegal in 80 countries, Biden laid out the challenges faced by LGBTQ people overseas. In places like in Jamaica, he decried the practice of “corrective rape” for lesbians, and was critical of the anti-gay law in Nigeria that makes entering into same-sex marriage or supporting LGBTQ rights punishable with time in prison.

The vice president also criticized Russia, which has recently been condemned by the United States by military incursion into Ukraine, over its law banning pro-gay propaganda to minors.

“By the way, as the great Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov said, ‘A country that does not respect the rights of its citizens will not respect the rights of its neighbors,’ and we’re seeing that today in Ukraine,” Biden emphasized.

Biden also emphatically called on Congress to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). The measure, which makes it illegal to discriminate in the workplace on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, was passed by the Senate last November, but is being held up by obstructionist anti-LGBTQ Republicans in the House.

“It shocks the conscious [sic] that this very moment in American history, in some states, an employer can fire you just because of who you are, or who you love. It’s close to barbaric,” said Biden. “Imagine, twenty years from now, as America looks back and says how in the hell could that have ever been allowed? The country’s moved on. The American people have moved on, it’s time for the Congress to move on, and pass ENDA. Pass ENDA now! Not tomorrow, now!”

You GO, VP Joe B! Source: bilerico.com

Local News Briefs

In early 2014, it looked likely that a ban on harmful “reparative therapy” for minors would pass in a Minnesota Legislature that a year before had passed marriage equality; but as the deadline to pass the bill expired last week, the bill has effectively died. Ex-gay groups mounted significant pressure on legislators to stop the bill, sending petitions and emails to lawmakers and hitting the conservative radio circuit. They declared victory this week.

Washington, DC - Justice Department Now Training Police to Work with Transgender People - 3.28

Gabe Aderhold and fellow University of Minnesota student Alec Fischer have been pushing for the bill. Late last year, the two created a petition with more than 114,000 signatures urging lawmakers to ban “ex-gay” therapy with minors. Aderhold and Fischer were successful in getting the bills introduced this session. California and New Jersey have enacted similar laws, and a half dozen other states are considering similar legislation.

“It’s clear that such a training is as necessary as it is overdue,” Associate Attorney General Tony West said. “Because too often, in too many places, we know that transgender victims are discouraged from reporting hate crimes and hate violence due to their past negative interactions with and perceptions of law enforcement.”

“The votes were there in the Senate committee, but Tina Liebling, chair of the Health and Human Service Policy Committee in the House would not hear the bill, citing lack of time and not wanting to regulate the industry - leave it up to the licensing boards, etc. - as her reasoning,” Aderhold said.

One such group is Pro-Family Forum, formed out of the ashes of the Pro-Marriage Amendment Forum. After the passage of marriage equality in Minnesota, the Pro-Family Forum appears to have transitioned to “ex-gay” causes. The group created a petition that generated 176 signatures.

The PFF also promoted a letter from the American College of Pediatricians, which is not to be confused with the American Academy of Pediatrics. The former is a small splinter group of socially conservative physicians who have misrepresented valid research on LGBTQ people. The latter is a well-respected professional organization relying on sound science to draw conclusions.

“The next steps are to build a broader base of support and raise greater awareness,” said Aderhold. “We will be back during the 2015 legislative session to try again. The session is longer and we will have more time to ‘whip the votes’ so to speak. The downsides to waiting another year are that more children will be subjected to this terrible ‘therapy,’ and the risk of a GOP house majority coming in and blocking the bill.”

For many years, transgender rights advocates have criticized how the nation’s police departments have addressed hate crimes against transgender people.

“Cops will deal with trans folks and assume because you’re trans, then in some kind of way you’ve caused this kind of violence on you,” said Tiq Milan, a spokesman for advocacy group GLAAD. Harper Jean Tobin, policy director at the National Center for Transgender Equality, helped to design the program, but said there is still more work that will need to be done in order to fix the problems between transgender people and America’s police departments.

“You can’t train your way out of this problem. It’s one piece of the puzzle. It’s one tool that we can use,” she said.

Source: lawofficer.com

Another option is to threaten the tenant with an Ellis Act eviction and do a Buy Out. One hundred of these happened in one month (February 2014), mostly in the Mission and Tenderloin. This is the primary form of displacement today.

Most of this speculative profit is from turning former rent controlled units into TIC’s (Tenancies In Common) using Fractional TIC mortgages. Some units are used for AirBnB or corporate suites. These add to the loss of rent-controlled apartments.

Creating a TIC in rent-controlled housing removes one group of people (usually low-income), and replaces them with another group of people with more income. It does not create new housing, and it eliminates the rent-controlled housing stock, often permanently.

Proposed new laws and regulations include the Harvey Milk anti-speculation tax. Signature gathering begins in April for the November ballot. At stake are the legalizing of illegal units, increasing relocation payouts, better defining Fractional TIC’s in the planning code, and the requirement of permits that include “Building Code compliance” before conversion from rentals to TIC’s. Poor tenants could offer their units to a nonprofit like the S.F. Land Trust for purchase when the building goes on the market and register “buy outs” with the rent board. If there were disabled and/or senior tenants, then no condo conversion could be allowed in the future, and no rent increase would be allowed if re-rented.

If such regulations pass, the City could buy small rental buildings, regulate conversion of rentals to TIC’s, and allow the right to add one additional roommate (regardless of the lease/rental agreement), which would dramatically increase the housing supply in the tens of thousands.

What has been accomplished so far is that there is a 10-year suspension of the condo conversion lottery. Limitations exist for mergers of multiple rentals into single units, and there are to be no demolitions of rent-controlled buildings to build market rate rentals. Much is left to do, however. The next citywide rally will take place on April 26 from noon to 3pm at City Hall.

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“This is not a result that can or will be tolerated by the Department of Justice, and it runs counter to the very role your community public safety officials want to promote,” Cole said.

It’s time cops figure out how to get along with trans people.

Owners have the option to invoke the Ellis Act and evict tenants to increase the sale value of the property, or the speculator can do that after the purchase to increase the value of the property and resell it (on the average at a 116% profit).

BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

Deputy Attorney General James Cole said that “the [transgender] community’s fears about law enforcement’s support and perceptions” prevent them from reporting acts of anti-transgender violence, a situation he described as unacceptable.

Source: thecolu.mn

Discussions were held at the Anti-Displacement Coalition policy briefing. The ADC is a coalition of all renters’ advocacy organizations in the City. The big problem is that speculators are targeting rent-controlled units with long-term (low rent) renters, many of whom are disabled and/or seniors. These units tend to be the cheapest to buy.

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The program will be overseen by the Justice Department’s Community Relations Service, which works to prevent and respond to hate crimes. Lesson plans include suggestions for addressing school bullying, and lists of do’s and don’ts, with don’ts including using terms like “transvestite” and asking whether a transgender person has had “sex reassignment” or “sex change” surgery.

Ex-gay therapy in this modern age is utterly unthinkable!

Anti-Displacement Coalition Tackles Affordable Housing Problems

Story by Dennis McMillan

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a program to educate local police departments to better understand and act on issues affecting transgender people.

The new initiative is aimed at helping police identify hate crimes and build trust with a community that law enforcement officials say is too often reluctant to report crimes.

Bill to Improve Safety and Prevent Bullying in California Schools Clears Committee with Bipartisan Support A bill – authored by Senator Ricardo Lara and co-sponsored by Equality California and GSA Network – that would improve the handling of bullying and discrimination incidents in public schools, has passed the Senate Education Committee by a bipartisan vote of 7-0-2.

The bill, SB 840, addresses shortfalls in existing school safety and nondiscrimination law enforcement and implementation in California schools. The legislation was prompted by the findings of the School Safety and Nondiscrimination Laws Audit released in 2013, reporting that school bullying prevention efforts are falling short.

“While California has been at the forefront in adopting legislation to protect our youth from bullying and harassment, including Seth’s Law in 2011, last year’s audit showed that compliance with the law is falling short,” said John O’Connor, EQCA executive director. “The bipartisan support that this bill received reaffirms the notion that every student should feel safe at school and have the opportunity to succeed.”

“No student should fear going to school because of bullying,” said Senator Lara. “We have a responsibility to provide school officials with the tools they need to appropriately protect and support our students and ensure academic success.”

Bullying and harassment in schools is occurring at alarming rates in California. While students are bullied for a variety of reasons, data has shown nearly 200,000 students in California schools are harassed because of sexual orientation.

These statistics translate to multiple negative consequences for students, including higher risk for poor academic performance, depression, suicide and substance abuse. The cumulative cost to school districts is an estimated minimum of $39.9 million each year due to school absences when students feel unsafe to attend school for fear of being bullied.

In 2012, EQCA and GSA Network joined then Assemblymembers Lara and Betsy Butler to request an audit by the State Auditor that reviewed current state laws on the issue and recommended improvements to increase prevention. Released in 2013, the report found that while a majority of districts and schools have implemented some nondiscrimination policies, many lacked adequate enforcement measures. Additionally, the audit revealed that California law was not fully aligned with federal Department of Education nondiscrimination policy.

Story by Dennis McMillan

“Bay Times” Exclusive One of the most powerful and influential positions in the city is that of Civil Grand Juror. Currently, the Civil Grand Jury of the City and County of San Francisco is seeking applicants, and has reached out to the LGBT community as part of that effort. Judge Gail Dekreon, a member of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Institute, shared more with us about San Francisco’s Civil Grand Jury.

Bay Times: Please give a brief sy nopsis of what t he Civ i l Grand Jury is, and what it is responsible for in San Francisco.

Judge Gail Dekreon: California’s constitution mandates that each court annually impanel a “watchdog” grand jury with the duty to investigate the operations of the City and County’s officers, departments, and agencies. The Civil grand jury consists of nineteen members randomly drawn from a pool of applicants who volunteer to serve for one year from July through June.

Each jury determines which issues related to the governance of the City & County of San Francisco it wishes to investigate with the goal of making recommendations to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of government services. Each jury chooses its own methodology. In recent years, the jury has divided itself into several investigative committees, which then select the City and County offices, departments, or agencies that will be investigated. During the investigations, jurors may inspect and audit books, records and financial expenditures; interview civil servants and others who may have pertinent information; inspect government facilities; and issue reports with findings and recommendations.

The entire grand jury meets once per week, generally in the early evening. Investigative committees meet as frequently as needed. Most investigative committee work takes place during regular business hours. Members receive $15.00 per diem for each meeting attended during their term.

The Presiding Judge of the Superior Court reviews the reports issued by the Grand Jury to make certain they meet legal requirements. The reports are then sent to the affected department heads, who are required by law to respond. The reports are published for the public and the Board of Supervisors is required to hold public hearings on each report.

Bay Times: Why is it important to have a diverse group of applicants, and why has it been challenging to get a group of diverse individuals from the community to apply?

P HOTOS C OURT ESY OF AIDS HEALT H F OUN D AT ION

Interview with Judge Gail Dekeron

Judge Gail Dekreon: We are very pleased with all of our grand jurors, and we want to insure that they represent all of our citizens in our wonderfully diverse community of San Francisco. The challenge of achieving a diverse group of grand jurors is the time commitment of one year; this can be difficult for many people because it is like a second job. We want to emphasize that the grand jurors can decide how often to meet and when. They make their own schedule, and it can be as flexible as they want.

Bay Times: What is the term of service?

Judge Gail Dekreon: The term of service is one year, July 1, 2014–June 30, 2015.

Bay Times: Is there any f lexibility with people’s work and school schedules?

Judge Gail Dekreon: Each jury sets its own schedule and sets the number of reports that will be issued in the one year term. There is always flexibility to accommodate work and school schedules.

Bay Times: What types of reports have previous Grand Juries completed?

Judge Gail Dekreon: In 2013, the Civil Grand Jury issued the following reports, which can all be found at civ ilgrandjur y.sfgov.org/report. html: Build ing a Better Future at the Department of Building Inspection Aud it ing t he Cit y Ser v ices Aud itor : You C a n O n ly M a n a g e What You Measure Use of Nonprof it C om mu n it yBased Organizations: Measuring Outcomes Log Cabin Ranch: Planning for the Future G olden G at e Pa rk ’s Home le s s Population: Are San Francisco’s Policies Serving Us Well?

Optimizing the Use of PubliclyOwned Real Estate A r e t he W he e l s Mov i n g For ward?

Bay Times: W here can people obt a i n a n appl ic at ion , and what is the deadline for applying?

Judge Gail Dekreon: The appl icat ion dead l i ne is A pr i l 30, 2014, a nd appl ic at ion s c a n be obtained from the Jury Of f ice at 400 McA llister, Room 007, and on l ine at: civ i lg ra ndjur y.sfgov. org/index.html P H OTO S C O URT E SY O F SF SUPE R IO R C O URT

Judge Gail Dekreon

P H OTO B Y RE E D SAXO N

Civil Grand Jury Seeks LGBT Juror Applicants

BAY T IM ES APR IL 4,

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Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco

April Artist-in-Residence Tim Roseborough victims. Authorities destroyed the pictures, but I re-imagined them, posing as both victim and perpetrator in order to exorcise my fears.

(Editor’s Note: The Bay Times is proud to launch a new column highlighting artists, exhibitions and more from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

The FAMS, comprising the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park and the California Palace of the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park, is the largest public arts institution in San Francisco. Its Director, Colin Bailey, is a specialist in 18th and 19th century French Art. Bailey lives in the city with longtime partner Alan Wintermute, an Old Master paintings expert at Christie’s.)

Lastly, Shirley Clarke’s 1967 documentary, “Portrait of Jason,” chronicles the musings of Jason Holliday, an African-American man and selfavowed “stone whore” over the course of an evening in late 1960s New York City. Portrait of Jason II” is a playfully serious sequel: an extrapolation and re-evaluation of this landmark f ilm, in which I revive Holliday’s spirit.

Bay Times: We have this wonderful quote in mind from you: “As an artist, my perennial endeavor is to expand my audience. The more senses I can touch, in a pluralistic sense, the more souls I can reach.” Please explain how, through your present work, you attempt to touch the senses of your audience.

W hat kind of connection do you hope to establish with your audiences? The word “souls” stands out for us in the aforementioned quote.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DE YOUNG MUSEUM

This month, FA MS artist-in-residence Tim Roseborough will present his visual quiz event Contenda at the de Young Museum. Roseborough recently discussed it, as well as some of his other thought-provoking projects, including pieces that explore the LGBT black experience and that challenge traditional views on gender.

Singing Garden (2010) 3D Animation, Custom Programming, Microphone, Video Projection, Apple Computer. Below, CYMN Installation (2012) Touch Screen Monitors, Apple Mac Pro, Stainless Steel Stands, Custom Interactive Software, Sound.

I see art as extremely important for its alternative approach to culture. The opportunity to be thoughtful about, critical of, and experimental with our culture – which an engagement with art can provide – should be the domain of persons at all levels of society, not just the academic or financial elite. Art deserves a larger space in our society.

At the same time, I can find enjoyment and depth in what art aficionados might term lowbrow, pop and middlebrow culture. My work attempts to bridge mainstream culture and contemporary art by presenting challenging — and sometimes critical — ideas in a form that might be appealing, familiar and fun to a broad range of people. This strategy is not forced or awkward for me, as I am a sincere disciple of all forms of culture.

It has been famously said that a viewer “completes” an artwork though her or his interaction with it. My work has continually evolved to incorporate interactivity. By this, I mean that the “viewer” becomes “participant” — experiencing a more engaging relationship with the artworks though the senses of sight, hearing and touch.

My “Singing Garden” and “CYMN” pieces are examples of this.

I believe in a “soul,” whether in the spiritual, humanistic or scientif ic sense. This entity holds the potential to be wise, reasonable, sympathetic, knowledgeable, and in touch with emotion. At its best, art feeds and nurtures this soul, by allowing for 4

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These three pieces are my way of showing that Art can fill in the blanks that history leaves.

What also ties these pieces is a shared concern with queerness: the ignominies suffered by queer black male bodies in the Dahmer case, the resurrection and “revenge” of the black and queer Jason Holliday, and my reimagining of Marilyn Monroe, the most legendary heterosexual female “sex object,” as interpreted by a gender illusionist.

Tim Roseborough: Contemporary art competes with an ever expanding set of cultural products, including television, cinema, video games, computers, mobile technology, and social media, among others. Art simply has a different history and a divergent set of priorities and values.

Unfortunately, contemporary art has traditionally been appreciated by a rarefied coterie of enthusiasts, institutional workers and collectors.

The often-repeated charge that Jason Holliday was no more than a “middleaged black homosexual prostitute” reduces the richness of his experience and character to facile stereotypes.

By blurring the lines between of selfconfession and acting, performance and reality, I sought to add a more triumphant epilogue to an already complexly constructed film personality. With this video, I give Jason the final word.

Bay Times: Where are you from originally? Do you enjoy working here in the Bay Area? What do you think is unique about Bay Area audiences?

measured thought, conversation and critical evaluation.

Bay Times: Please tell us about Contenda. How is it an “experimental” contest?

Tim Roseborough: Contenda is based on the quiz bowl format prominent in high schools and universities across the globe. Contestants are provided with a “buzzer” system and a host asks questions about artists, artworks, artistic movements, and other queries pertinent to visual culture.

Contenda is “experimental” because I am exploring ways to re-present the history of art in a novel, challenging and entertaining way.

Artists in the 21st century are burdened with history. We are haunted by every artistic innovation that has come before. I found that one way to confront this wealth of information is to “trivialize” it and integrate it into a knowledge-based game.

With Contenda, I am exploring whether there is something truly measurable in art. So many aspects of the art field are vague, obscure and undef ined that I found myself drawn to certain “facts.” As artists are constantly subject to the vagaries inherent in the art field, the more tangible realities of “Who did what when?” seem all the more appealing to me.

In a creative milieu, it seems counterintuitive to focus on images, dates and names, but Contenda is a reaction to the nebulous workings of the art world, itself.

Bay Times: One description of your work reads: “Mining the past and the subconscious of our society to highlight profound, but under-recognized notions and ideas, his animations, installations, and videos focus on cultural phenomena and artifacts t hat have been lost, ignored, or forgotten.”

Please share some examples of those phenomena and artifacts, and why you think they merit our attent ion.

Also, our paper focuses on the LGBTQ community. We were struck by your “Portrait of Jason II” project. Please share a bit about it for our readers, and mention any other projects of you r s w it h more direct, or maybe even indirect, LGBTQ connections.

Tim Roseborough: This description of my work refers to pieces in which I revived, invented or re-imagined artifacts that are “footnotes” in popular history.

I cast popular local gender illusionist, Raya Light, as the “Marilyn” in this project. The fact that this alleged “sex film” did not exist gave me artistic license to play with gender and other tropes in what can now be named the “official” version.

Tim Roseborough: I am originally from a suburb of Chicago, Illinois.

I f ind the Bay Area a vibrant and comfortable environment in which to practice. There is something about the light and abundant natural beauty in and around the Bay Area that allows my mind to breathe and conjure new concepts. I walk or run our hilly terrain each morning and am rejuvenated and exhilarated every time, ready for new challenges and opportunities.

Bay Times: What projects are in the works for the future?

Ti m Roseborough: I only know the future when it happens.

Bay Times: Please mention anything else that you’d like our readers to know about you and your work.

Tim Roseborough: Almost all of my projects are viewable or documented online, so my art is truly accessible to everyone.

“The Of f icial ‘Marilyn “Show Me The Race...” Black One (2011) Archival Inkjet Print, 24” “Contenda: A Visual Quiz Monroe’ [sic] Film,” is x 18”, From the “Pan-African” Series.

Event” will be presented an example. News outlets My piece, “Here Is The Room,” was April 2-May 4 in the Kimball Educain 2008 covered a collector’s claim inspired by the murders committed tion Gallery/Artist Studio at the de that he had sold an FBI-classif ied

by Jeffrey Dahmer, which intrigued Young Museum. deyoung.famsf.org/ “sex film” featuring legendary actress Marilyn Monroe. The film was re- and terrified me at the time of their calendar/april-artist-residence-timvealed as a hoax, but the notion in- revelation. Dahmer left behind a roseborough For more information spired me to construct a camp re-cre- collection of Polaroid photos, which about Tim Roseborough, please visit ation of this slice of historical fiction. chronicled the gruesome fate of his www.timroseborough.com/

My San Francisco Village Experience: Finding My Identity Through Connection & Community I felt I wasn’t at a point in my life where I needed the services offered as part of Village membership—including rides to the doctor’s office or grocery store, transition to home support after an operation, etc. Instead, I gravitated toward the community building activities, and found myself

Aging in Community

more socially enriched than I had been in years. Eventually, I threw myself into the Village, and joined those

Ralph Beren, Ed.D.

groups that interested me: a play-

Throughout our lives, we identify our-

even started a group around my pas-

selves in many different ways. Some are identities that we create through

reading group, a book group, and I sion for movies.

our personal development, such as via

Three years into my membership, I

professional expertise, parenthood,

was diagnosed with prostate cancer

and artistic interests. Others, like

and needed to receive radiation treat-

gender, sexual orientation and age,

ments for 45 days. The services that I

are fundamental in nature and less

believed I wouldn’t need until years

likely to change over the years.

later all of a sudden became a neces-

Throughout my life, I’ve identified myself as many things—an educator, a father and a gay man, to name a

sity. While this revelation was both shocking and frightening, I knew I had somewhere to turn to ask for help.

few. But when it came to aging, and

San Francisco Village immediately

identifying myself as a “senior citi-

responded to my request for help. Vol-

zen,” I was having trouble seeing how

unteers and members drove me to and

I fit into that mold. However, when I

from my treatments, and even waited

stopped for a minute and picked my

for me during the procedures. I re-

head up, I noticed that, not only was I

ceived check-in calls from other mem-

growing older, but also that my social

bers and offers for people to come by

network was diminishing. I was re-

and hang out during the more diffi-

tired from my job as an educator, my

cult days. When I joined the Village,

children had moved away from San

I didn’t think I would need the care

Francisco, and I felt like there was a

services they provide. However, when

significant hole in my life.

crisis occurred, I was lucky to have a

It was around that time that a friend introduced me to San Francisco Village, a nonprof it organization empowering older adults to continue to live active lives in their homes and neighborhoods. My friend asked me several times to check it out and I balked, at first. Eventually, I went to a meeting and looked around the room.

All I saw were old people. “What is this?” I asked. “These people are too old for me!” Despite the fact that they were discussing topics that interested me and activities that seemed fun and engaging, I was determined it wasn’t for me.

At the time, I identif ied myself as someone who is active and engaged, not old and frail. I had my blinders on and couldn’t see that everything I was looking for—community, connection, engagement, and an ability to live my passions with like-minded people— was right in front of me. I was afraid that being a member of such an organization would project an identity of someone who was not in control of his own life.

I couldn’t have been more wrong.

trusted ally in SF Village helping me navigate the scary and complicated waters of cancer treatment. While I joined the Village for the social aspects of membership, it was the services that reinforced my belief in the Village model and the community they’ve created here in San Francisco.

Once recovered, I began to re-ex-

LGBT A f f irming Resources • O pen house: open house- sf. org/ •Institute on Aging: www.ioaging.org/ • S AGE: w w w. s a g eu s a .or g/ about/ •Nat iona l Resou rce C enter on L GB T A g i n g : w w w. l gbtagingcenter.org/ •Memor y Cl inic, K a iser Per ma nente Cla r a Med ica l Center: mydoctor.kaiser permanente.org/ncal/facilities/ r e g i o n /s a n t a c l a r a /a r e a _ master/depar t ments/memo ryclinic/index.jsp A lzheimer’s A ssociat ion Programs and Services: www.alz.org/norcal/ •24/7 Helpl ine: 1(8 0 0) 2723900 •Support Groups •Educational Programs • On l i ne Commun it y: w w w. a l zhei mer sblog.org/lgbt-fo rum •Safety Services

Dr. Marcy Adelman oversees the new Bay Times Aging in Community column. For her summary of current LGBT senior challenges and opportunities, please go to: sf baytimes. com/challenges-and-opportunties

Bay Times co-publishers Betty Sullivan & Jennifer Viegas invite you to join their table at the 10th Annual Spring Fling, supporting Openhouse, on Sunday, April 27th.

Contact: Publisher@sfbaytimes.com

amine my identity, as well as how I identified with aging in general. No longer did I view my later years as a proverbial hammer waiting to drop.

Thanks to the Village, I now see the years ahead of me as an invitation to participate in life and my community.

San Francisco Village is a citywide network that empowers older adults to continue to live active and full lives in their own homes and neighborhoods. The Village enables older adults to stay in charge of their lives as they manage the transitions of getting older by proactively offering expert guidance, support, services and community for a monthly fee. San Francisco Village, located at 3575 Geary Blvd., respects the rich diversity of San Francisco and embraces members from all walks of life. For more

After a few months, and some scary

information, please visit www.sfvil-

looks in the mirror, I figured out that

lage.org/ or phone 415-387-1375.

I may actually be one of “those people,” and that the Village might fill

Ralph Beren, Ed.D., is a retired teach-

my need for being with others who

e r a n d con s ult a nt in orga nizat i onal

share similar passions. I began to at-

behavior. He is the proud father and

tend meetings and activities, quickly

grandfather of three children and two

making a number of connections with

grandchildren . His hobbies are wr it-

people who enjoy similar activities,

ing , music, reading , working out and

such as movies, yoga, and comedy.

yoga. Ralph turned 80 this March.

BAY T IM ES APR IL 4,

2014

5

Real Estate and Design

‘But Zillow Says My Home Is Worth…’

Real Estate Mark Penn There aren’t a lot of things that drive me crazy, but that line about Zillow is probably one of them. Almost everyone uses the Internet for information, so why not depend on it to help us estimate one of our most valuable personal assets?

Well, there are a few good reasons.

First of all, do you really think that Zillow knows what your home looks like on the inside? Do they do some kind of Google-like drive-by that gives them the knowledge that’s needed to correctly value a property? No, they aren’t that technologically advanced, yet. There are lots of things that they can’t include in their “Zestimate®” – updates and upgrades, f loorplans, remodels, views, and so much more.

Zestimates® are arrived at by using lots of statistical data that feeds into their database. Local tax data and recent sales are the main factors, and they use algorithms to factor in what the market has been doing in the region. But the fact is, real estate value

is based on a number of things, not the least of which is the “emotion factor,” which includes the dramatic features that, as of now anyway, can only be interpreted by a human brain, and not a collection of databases.

More importantly, and I don’t have a percentage on the accuracy of county-by-county tax data, but I can tell you that in general, it’s not very dependable. Property tax records are only as accurate as the poor underpaid, overworked municipal employee who is entering the data. So if county tax assessor data is a large influencer on Zillow’s estimate, well, you know what they say: “Garbage, in, garbage out.”

By Zillow’s own admission, their estimate is only a “starting point in determining a home’s value,” and they suggest that anyone looking for accuracy should consult a local real estate agent for a comparative market analysis (CMA). And the more unique or volatile a local market is, the less accurate that Zestimate® is.

It’s not a coincidence that by Zillow’s own in-house ranking, their SF Bay Area estimates only earn a two-outof-four-star rating for accuracy.

They also confess that, in our area, about 4 out of 5 of their estimates come within 82% of actual value.

Let’s play that out a bit. If a property sells at the current Bay Area median price, $675,000, then the Zillow estimate would be somewhere within a $243,000 range of accuracy. On a $1,000,000 home the range would be $360,000. Would you really find that helpful in trying to decide what your home is worth?

The most accurate tool for discovering your home’s value is by putting it on the market and seeing what a buyer might be willing to pay. But that’s not always feasible, or even ethical, unless you truly intend to sell it.

The next most accurate tool is with the assistance of a local REALTOR® - a professional who will give you the benefit of expertise, a careful and inperson examination of your property and the local statistics, and who won’t be at all reluctant to give you that value without the attachment of costs or other strings.

I’m a huge fan of the Internet, and the tools that are available on it. But let’s be sure that you are giving your property the scrutiny and accuracy that it deserves.

A Bay Area native, Mark Penn has been a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker since 2004. He is also active in animal welfare, and is a former educator, facilitator, and air traffic controller. Mark can be reached at mark@MyHomeInSonoma.com.

LGBT Community: Pioneers of Gentrification

Real Estate America Foy (Editor’s Note: With this issue, the Bay Times welcomes new columnist America Foy, a top-producing real estate agent at Sotheby’s International Realty. Foy has over a decade of experience in the industry and a lifetime of experience in the San Francisco Bay Area. Both he and Taylor Sublett, also from Sotheby’s, can assist you if you want to buy or sell residential, commercial, or investment properties throughout the Bay Area. Recent East Bay residents, Taylor and America will help you sell in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo and Marin Counties. They specialize in high-end luxury real estate in Oakland, Berkeley, Piedmont, and San Francisco.)

Our community has a long and rich history of pioneering. Courage is one of our defining characteristics as a group. From Alexander the Great to Angela Davis, the LGBT community is on the forefront of any push forward. This is true for real estate as well, so put on your big person pants and let’s talk about what’s happening in real estate.

Many of you may be long term San Francisco residents, or some of you may be new to the area, but we all need a quick refresher about the San Francisco real estate market and the dreaded “g” word: gentrification.

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BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

2014

Gentrification, per Wikipedia, is “… typically the result of investment in a community by local government, community activists, or business groups, and can often spur economic development, attract business, and lower crime rates.” Sound familiar? Being from, or living in, San Francisco we know it does because we have all seen it. I grew up in Bernal Heights, and spent a lot of time in the Castro over the last 25 years, and I can tell you from personal experience it has really changed.

Our community went to depressed areas and spiffed them up. Our community started businesses in those neighborhoods.

Our community elected politicians in those areas to represent us. So, for those railing against gentrification and unaffordable housing in San Francisco, here’s a simple reminder: It’s all our fault.

The Castro was not always the neighborhood we know today. Bernal, Noe Valley, South of Market, The Fillmore, Pacific Heights...none of these neighborhoods were quite as nice, and definitely were not as expensive as they are today, just a few years back. Of course, every tech person in the world wants to live in San Francisco’s beautiful and vibrant and safe neighborhoods. We made them what they are today.

That damnable pioneering spirit gentrified San Francisco so completely that our work here is done. It’s become a homogenous place totally acceptable to the mainstream. We’ve planted our seeds and tended our crops and now it’s time to reap what we’ve sown and head off to new areas to do it all again. It’s time to saddle up the horses, or pack up the Volvo, and head east.

A number of viable, vibrant, and affordable cities and neighborhoods in the

East Bay are crying out for our pioneering spirit, and this time it doesn’t need to be hardscrabble. Imagine we’ve just sold your 2-bedroom condo in the Castro for a million plus dollars. Well, that money will go pretty far in the East Bay, where the median price for a single family home is roughly $450,000.00. What are you going to do with the proceeds of your sale?

Maybe a less desperate lifestyle is in order?

The lifestyle in the East Bay is higher quality and less stressful than that of The City. Want to join a country club, swim and tennis club or city club, ride horses, be on the board of directors for the symphony or ballet, or just not have to worry about street parking? The East Bay is for you. Restaurants, culture, theatre, dance and music await you, and all are just a 10-minute BART trip to San Francisco from Oakland.

For those worried about cutting the proverbial cord to the community, the East Bay is one of the most culturally diverse communities out there. A relatively recent census of same sex couples shows that the East Bay has the highest concentration of women same sex couples in the entire region. Oakland, in particular, has a number of gay-borhoods with Piedmont Avenue, Montclair, and the Upper Dimond being particularly gay friendly.

Maybe it’s time to rethink the pioneer lifestyle and head out for some new adventures. Call or email us if you would like to find out more about the East Bay, get an idea of what your house is worth, or if you want to make the jump.

To reach America Foy, please e-mail him at America.foy@sothebysrealty.com or phone him at 510-473-7775. To reach Taylor Sublett: taylor. sublett@sothebysrealty.com or 510-301-9569.

Real Estate and Design

Remodeling Return on Investment

Project Remodel Jim Tibbs Return on Investment (ROI) is a common financial term that can be easily misinterpreted when used in a remodeling context. The simple definition of ROI is “the profit or cost savings realized for a given use of money.” ROI is usually expressed as a percentage that is calculated by dividing the profit (or cost saving) by the amount of the investment times 100. A $100 investment that produces a $25 profit is said to deliver a 25% Return on Investment.

Less than Five Years: If you are planning to sell your home in the next five years, it is smart to spend your money on improvements that will maximize the resale value of the house. In this scenario, quantitative factors will probably outweigh the qualitative ones.

Consult with a real estate agent before finalizing the scope of work and budget for the projects you are considering.

Five to Ten Years: With this timeframe, you want to optimize the combination of quantitative and qualitative factors to inform your decision-making. A tenyear horizon gives you plenty of time to enjoy the results of the remodel, while

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JIM TIBBS

Remodeling Return on Investment includes both quantitative and qualitative factors that should be considered when making a budget decision. The quantitative results are measured by the increase in property value related to a remodeling project, while the qualitative results are determined by the increased enjoyment derived from living in the improved space. Both quantitative and qualitative criteria should be considered, but their relative importance will vary based on your intended length of stay in the house.

gaining some financial benefit when you sell the house.

Over Ten Years: If you plan on staying in your home for more than ten years, prioritize your remodeling decisions based on your family’s needs and what you can afford, versus focusing heavily on resale considerations.

If you want to learn more about the types of projects that produce a high financial return on investment, refer to the Remodeling Magazine “Cost Vs.

Value” report, www.remodeling. hw.net/cost-vs-value/2014/pacif ic/ san-francisco-ca/, for guidance. This report provides a wealth of information about remodeling costs and ROI at the national, state and regional level.

Remodeling ROI calculates the increase in property value as a percentage of the cost of the remodel. For instance, a $30,000 bathroom remodel that increases the value of the house by $36,000 has a 20% ROI ($6,000/$30,000).

Below is a sample of the high producing remodeling projects for homes in the San Francisco Bay Area based on the recently released data: • window replacement: 20-30% ROI • major kitchen remodel: 12-35% ROI • major bathroom remodel: 18-35% ROI • deck addition: 26-77% ROI Remodeling projects that convert unconditioned space (garage, basement or attic) into living space (home office, home gym or guest room) are the projects with the highest ROI. The real estate market in the Bay Area is very strong right now, which makes it an ideal time to recoup a significant return on the money that you invest in remodeling, especially if you are planning to sell your home in the near future.

Jim Tibbs is the creative director of HDR Remodeling. If you would like to learn more, please read his blog at hdrremodeling. wordpress.com or follow him on Twitter @ HDRremodeling1.

See more Stories @sfbaytimes.com BAY T IM ES APR IL 4,

2014

7

Swimming in the River of Blah Blah engage in these monologues. We’re constantly interpreting, evaluating, and judging both our own and other people’s actions, and since most of the time we’re more or less unconscious that we’re doing it, we continually conflate what is happening with our evaluation of it.

Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011

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Examined Life 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.

Dr. Betty L. Sullivan Jennifer L. Viegas Co-Publishers & Co-Editors

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Abby Zimberg Design & Production Kate Laws Business Manager Robert Fuggiti Calendar Editor

Kit Kennedy Poet-In-Residence J.H. Herren Technology Director

Barbara Brust / Lucille Design Technical Adviser

Tom Moon, MFT Whenever my friend Aaron f inds himself lost in habitual and unproductive thoughts, he describes himself as “swimming in the river of blah blah.” Buddhists call this river papanca, or “mental proliferation,” and see it as one of the chief causes of human suffering. Cognitive therapists refer to it as “automatic thinking.” Whatever we call it, it’s a powerful force.

We’re all subject to automatic, fleeting thoughts that arise so quickly and are so habitual that they tend to f ly below the radar of conscious awareness. A series of automatic thoughts forms an internal monologue. We all

Eckhart Tolle, in The Power of Now, describes one kind of suffering that results from swimming in the river of blah blah: “You have probably come across ‘mad’ people in the street incessantly talking or muttering to themselves. Well, that’s not much different from what you and all other ‘normal’ people do, except that you don’t do it out loud.” Most so-called “normal” people are plagued with an inner voice that “comments, speculates, judges, compares, complains, likes, dislikes, and so on…It is not uncommon for the voice to be a person’s own worst enemy. Many people live with a tormentor in their head that continuously attacks and punishes them and drains them of vital energy.

It is the cause of untold misery and unhappiness, as well as of disease.”

These self-attacks are implicated in, or directly responsible for, a myriad of problems, such as anxiety and de-

pression, dissatisfaction and despair, addictions and compulsions, discord in relationships, and on and on.

Cognitive research has convincingly established that automatic thoughts are important casual factors in many emotional issues. For instance, people who suffer from depression tend toward automatic thoughts that tell them that they’re helpless to alter their circumstances. People with anxiety issues often engage in thoughts that exaggerate future threats. This is called “catastrophizing” or, my favorite, “disasterbation.”

Fortunately, the techniques for changing automatic thinking patterns are so simple that some people can learn them from self-help manuals. A simple way to do this is to pick up a copy of David Burns’ book Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy and do the written exercises for changing cognitive distortions. As far as I know, this is the only self-help manual whose effectiveness has actually been scientifically tested. In five separate studies, during which depressed patients were given no other treatment than a copy of Feeling Good, and the suggestion that they read it, it was found that Feeling Good “bibliotherapy” could be as effective

as a full course of psychotherapy or treatment with antidepressant drugs.

The process is simple, but it’s not so easy to do, because the human brain evolved to believe itself. When we’ve thought the same thoughts for a long time, they begin to feel like mere common sense realities, which seem so obviously true that they need no proof. So the work involves a constant and vigilant attempt to relate to our thoughts rather than from them.

One helpful exercise is to spend some time making an inventory of your “top ten tunes,” meaning the automatic thoughts that cause you the most difficulty. (Ex: “It’s foolish to trust other people,” “I’m lazy,” etc.)

People who do this exercise often find that it enables them, sometimes for the first time in their lives, to look critically at their own minds. They begin to see how sweeping its judgments are, how often they’re based on childhood misperceptions rather than mature thinking, and how unforgiving and lacking in compassion their minds can be. The entire process is governed by one simple principle: “Don’t believe everything you think.”

Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. His website is tommoon.net.

San Francisco, Where Are We Going?

Jennifer Mullen Web Coordinator

a nd perhaps most devast at i ng, wave. These waves are eroding our city’s foundational culture, heritage and spirit. I have watched our loved ones being washed out by the imbalances present in our city’s evolution.

Through this tidal action, deposited on our shores, are a lot of new people from all over the U.S. and abroad.

Mario Ordonez Juan Ordonez Distribution

Writers Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Kirsten Kruse, Kate Kendell, Pollo del Mar, Heidi Beeler, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Paul E. Pratt, Terry Baum, Gypsy Love, Rafael Mandelman, Shelley MacKay, Kit Kennedy, Leslie Katz, Karen Williams, Gary Virginia, Stu Smith, Zoe Dunning, Jim Tibbs, Mark Penn, Marcy Adelman, Stuart Gaffney & John Lewis Brandon Miller & Joanne Jordan, Kippy Marks, Naomi Jay, John Wesley, Jamie Leno Zimron Thom Watson, Shaun Haines, America Foy Photographers Rink, Dennis McMillan, Steven Underhill, Phyllis Costa, Cathy Blackstone, Robert Fuggiti, Bill Wilson, Jo-Lynn Otto

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Old School San Francisco Native Shaun Hassan Haines The city I love, and the people that make San Francisco a place to leave one’s heart, are going away. Where are we headed? Some of us, a prevailing minority, are “moving on up” and replacing the rest, a diminishing majority who are headed “down and out.” I’ve heard this problem labeled as an “affordability crisis.” Over the years, I have observed a jagged prosperity. This growth is rapidly reshaping our city, society, culture, politics and economy. My only hope is that this prosperity becomes more evenhandedly managed.

In the last several years, I have observed cyclical waves of exodus. At this time, I am observing my third,

It is apparent to me, and many old timers, that the latest waves of people that are coming to San Francisco are not doing so for the same reasons as many of those who arrived during the last several decades. Most of the latter were seeking acceptance, opportunity and a place to build a home. They wished to engage in a common culture, and to connect with our accepting community. Now, there is little loyalty to, or preservation of, these important foundational characteristics. Our differences are leading to clashes over policy and limited resources.

The streets tell this story, for those willing to listen. Stenciled on the pavement in black ink is “5%”. This indicates the population of Blacks estimated to reside in the city. Also stenciled are words like “clusterf**k.”

I feel that these, and other such statements, underscore the overwhelming consensus that we are in a predicament that will not be resolved easily.

The streets are filled with many such

references for those willing to take a moment to see, and to understand, what is happening in our world. Sadly, everybody is working so hard that few have time for community, art, local culture, or to become actively engaged with our common fight for survival.

The job and housing markets are over saturated, as are our social service systems. The cost of living and minimum wage are light-years apart.

There are more exclusionary roadblocks to opportunity and prosperity than there are programs and incentives to ensure equality and a nondiscriminatory playing field.

As I ref lect upon my own experiences, and interact with other residents, the general sentiment is that even while the city prospers, many things are becoming worse than ever before. The situation, in my option, is unsustainable. I find that we are all on the razor’s edge. I, personally, am uncertain of which side of the widening divide I will land. I’m facing the same hardships and misfortunes that are affecting countless others. I am hoping that we will work together to find the solutions to these problems.

Shaun Hassan Haines is a philanthropist, community organizer, LGBT activist, Information Technolog y Operations Management professional and photographer. shaunhaines.net/

CALENDAR Event listings for consideration to be included in the Bay Times online or print Calendar section should be sent by e-mail to: calendar@sfbaytimes.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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PH OTO S B Y R I NK

If you would like to write a letter to the editor with comment on an article or suggestions for the Bay Times, email us at editor@sfbaytimes.com.

A Celebration of Stu Smith’s World was held at the Julia Morgan Ballroom on Sunday, March 23rd. The program featured remembrances presented by family and friends, musical performances and a commendation from the California State Senate presented by Senator Mark Leno. Stu was a beloved columnist for the Bay Times until his death in early February this year. Stu’s husband Dave Earl welcomed guests.

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BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

2014

Fortnight in Review

By Ann Rostow The Litigious Month of April It’s April, which means that oral arguments on marriage are around the corner at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. It also means that we now know the names of the three judges who will sit on our panel, and there’s reason to be cautiously optimistic, emphasis on cautiously.

First, we’re happy to see Clinton nominee Carlos Lucero on the list, a man who is thought to be on the side of the angels. Judge Lucero’s partners on the case, however, include two GOP appointments; Paul Kelly (Bush One) and Jerome Holmes (Bush Two).

Before you despair, keep in mind that we’ve already chalked up a half dozen or so victories from GOP appointed federal judges. Further, Judge Holmes recently voted not to stay the marriage decision out of Utah, based on the premise that the Mormon State would not suffer undue harm by continuing to marry gay couples while the marriage litigation went up through the courts.

So that’s good, right? Judge Kelly, on the other hand, voted in favor of Hobby Lobby in the “religious freedom” case now on appeal at the Supreme Court, not a great sign.

Read the tea leaves as you like. These judges will hear the Utah case on April 10, and they are expected to stay together for arguments in the Oklahoma case on the 17th. Both states, obviously, fall under the jurisdiction of the 10th Circuit.

Meanwhile, one of the two Virginia marriage cases has been suspended pending the outcome of the first case, which is now before the Fourth Circuit.

That makes sense, particularly since the attorneys from Lambda and the ACLU have been allowed to intervene and participate in the main lawsuit.

Oral arguments before the appellate judges are set for May 13, so the panel will be announced early next month.

Don’t forget we have four more cases now headed to Sixth Circuit, and a case out of Texas en route to the (unfriendly) Fifth. Let’s just say we’re off and running!

Gay Juror Case Still Alive?

Now, here’s a strange and unnerving development over at the Ninth Circuit.

Do you remember the groundbreaking, historic, fantastic ruling in the gay juror case two months ago? You know, the ruling that called for sexual orientation bias to be held to a very high legal standard?

The ruling basically ended sexual orientation discrimination throughout the nine Ninth Circuit states (and Guam!), and we were thus delighted when the deadline to appeal the decision expired with no action from Abbott Labs, the losing party.

But wait! Apparently one or more Ninth Circuit judges are now asking the court to consider a full bench review, even though Abbott Labs hasn’t requested one. On March 27, the court asked both parties to present briefs on whether or not a review is warranted.

The briefs are due in mid-April.

Clearly, the frustrated judge or judges who revived the issue are not concerned with the dynamics of selecting a jury pool. They are determined to undermine what is perhaps the most significant gay rights victory in American law to date, and I am including all the High Court opinions in that assessment. We can only hope that the full Ninth Circuit decides to leave the opinion alone, and that there’s no weird mechanism to pursue the decision to the nine justices. Keep an eye on this, everyone!

Oh, by the way, I still don’t know why the Ninth Circuit is delaying arguments in the Nevada marriage case, but it reportedly has something to do with a scheduling problem. That said,

perhaps they’re waiting to see what happens to the legal standards that will guarantee marriage equality in the Ninth Circuit as long as our gay juror ruling stands.

Here’s a quick refresher for those of you who missed Judge Stephen Reinhardt’s late January opinion. In a case that questioned whether or not a lawyer could dismiss a prospective juror for being gay, Judge Reinhardt ruled that sexual orientation discrimination must be evaluated with heightened scrutiny, meaning that the antigay side must justify the discrimination with an important or compelling interest. The standard is virtually impossible to meet in gay cases, since there’s really no reason to act against our community that doesn’t rest on prejudice.

Every lawsuit we’ve ever filed would be settled in our favor if heightened scrutiny were applied, which is why courts have been reluctant to address the issue of scrutiny to begin with. Even our allies on the bench seem to feel that the gay rights movement should follow the long arc towards freedom rather than the short cut through heightened scrutiny. That’s why Judge Reinhardt’s opinion was breathtaking.

Springing Right Along I’m sorry to say that we have a lot more actual news to cover, which means that I can’t afford to meander along irrelevant tangents. Like basketball, for example. Sadly, we had to take down our Kansas Jayhawk flag after one weekend of madness. It will now sit in the closet for five long months until Mel will drag it out in a futile effort to rally the Big Twelve bottom-feeding KU football team. Good luck with that, honey!

On the other hand, the end of basketball means the beginning of spring and the return of eighty-degree afternoons in Austin. The trees are already in bloom. The bluebonnets are out. The indoor thermometer is now permanently set to “cold.” We can now tee off at two and play eighteen holes of golf, and the refrigerator is once again stocked with Campari.

I can’t enjoy Campari in cold weather, can you? Last night I made “Jasmines,” which feature squeezed lemon juice, gin, Campari and Paula’s orange. I have a device that makes slow-melting tennis ball-sized ice spheres, so I poured it over those with a slice of orange. Beware of hangovers. These drinks are delicious, but very alcoholic.

(3/4 oz., 1 ½ oz., ¼ oz., ¼ oz. respectively, shaken over ice and poured.)

Oh wait. Didn’t I just say that we couldn’t afford to let our minds wander? So sorry. Here’s something for all of us to monitor. The Supreme Court has not yet decided whether or not to review the case out of New Mexico, where the state Supreme Court ruled that a photographer might not refuse to do business with a lesbian couple based on religious objections.

There’s an added twist to this particular variation on what is becoming a familiar theme. The photographer now insists that she also deserves First Amendment protection because taking photographs involves artistic expression. As we’ve noted before, it seems that there’s an artistic element in making a wedding cake or designing invitations or making a flower arrangement.

In other words, a lot of businesses could cloak prejudice in the raiment of artistic freedom just as easily, and just as unfairly, as they now disguise bias as religious expression.

The High Court has twice listed the Elane Photography case on its agenda, but so far the justices have yet to decide one way or another. The case is again scheduled for discussion on April 4, with a decision (maybe) to be announced the following Monday.

Keep in mind that the New Mexico case, like the others we’ve seen, involved a violation of state antidiscrimination law. Many states do not protect

Professional Services GLBT clients against mean business owners, who are free to turn up their noses at our custom to their hearts’ content. Of course, they risk negative publicity on Yelp and elsewhere, which might actually be worse than a lawsuit.

By the way, Mississippi has passed a milder version of the antigay religious freedom law that was vetoed in Arizona. Again, since Mississippi has no law against gay bias to begin with, the new law is superfluous, albeit nasty. To be honest, I really don’t care what Mississippi does, because my expectations are quite low to begin with. It’s Mississippi, for God’s sake.

Death Be Proud Speaking of low expectations, Alabama is another state where I’m not exactly on the lookout for examples of progress in the gay rights movement.

Yet here, as in virtually all the U.S. states, we have another federal marriage recognition lawsuit. And this one is a little different. Here, the case involves a married man whose husband was killed in a crash. He is the sole inheritor, but because of Alabama’s refusal to acknowledge his married status, he may not sue for wrongful death.

Into the breach has stepped Pat Fancher, the dead man’s mother, who is trying to collect on the morbid rewards. She has hired the Foundation for Moral Law, and has been given leave to intervene in the suit. Indeed, husband Paul Hard did not object to the mother’s effort to join the litigation, and I can sort of see why.

In her filing, Fancher’s lawyers said she was “deeply disturbed that the death of her son David, whom she loved deeply and with whom she had a good relationship, is being used by Plaintiff Paul Hard to advance the cause of samesex marriage which she strongly opposes.” Quite frankly, this is just the sort of stone-hearted family member who personifies the naked hostility that the anti-marriage gang so artfully tries to hide. She had a “good relationship” with her son? Really?

Thanks to Fancher’s intervention, we can expect the Alabama case to include the ugliest sorts of legal arguments, compliments of the Foundation for Moral Law. I don’t have high hopes for Alabama in general, but this is a federal case. And we can only benefit from a matchup against extremists.

Fred Phelps, RI? Speaking of extremists, you all saw that Fred Phelps died a few days after our last column hit the press. Interesting that the man drew a few headlines, and then…nothing. Just what he deserved in my opinion: a quick exit into oblivion.

I hope he’s now clinging to a thin string, dangling over an inferno while all around him gay men and lesbians are drinking Champagne and eating oysters on the half shell at a giant outdoor cafe. I can hear the soft murmur of conversation, the occasional burst of laughter, soft music floating in the air (Edith Piaf? It’s not Paris, but they’re all in France somewhere). Fred is invisible to them, but he can see them and he is now aware of the ruinous flaws in his convictions. Yes, he was insane. But it seems that is no excuse in this new world. He is damned.

“Forgive me!” he cries. The heat rises.

He hears no answer, only a drifting chorus. “Quand je me prends dans ses bras….”

Does he fall? Or does he suddenly find himself seated at one of the tables. A beautiful woman pours him a glass (of vintage Krug bien sur) and smiles at him. “We’re all the same here,” she tells him as she opens another oyster.

“Saints and sinners.”

The answer depends on your view of the afterlife, of course. I’m putting him at the café, but only after he experiences several hours of pure terror. (continued on page 22)

Read more @www.sfbaytimes.com and check us out on Twitter and Facebook.

BAY T IM ES APR IL 4,

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9

Heterosexism in the Sports World

Sensei Jamie Leno Zimron Peak Performance Speaker and Trainer April and springtime of 2014 are already here. Has your Inner Athlete come out yet?! We’ve all got bodies, as well as minds, that need to be exercised and that love to be engaged and enjoyed. Whether you’re gay or straight, female or male, younger or older, physical activity and fitness are key to your vitality, empowerment and good health. Be sure to get up and out there every day, if you’re not already doing so. Raise your heart and breathing rates. Stretch. Break a sweat.

Challenge yourself to go beyond your current physical and mental limits. It’s so worth it and you’ll feel so good!

Speaking of limits, kudos to Michael Sam, the all-American college football star from Missouri who shocked football and the world when he came out while the Olympics were on and before the NFL draft. With his future on the line, Sam has courageously refused to be closeted or be untruthful about his sexuality. At a packed press conference where he stood as the first-ever out NFL-bound player, Sam proudly wore a rainbow pin on his chest inscribed “Stand With Sam.” It’s important that we do!

When a beautifully handsome, talented, articulate, well-mannered 260-lb young man likes to be a mean defensive end, throw blocks and tack-

In Memoriam Joan Ellen Deady October 3, 1953 – March 23, 2014 Joan Ellen Deady, a long-time friend and supporter of the Bay Times and Betty’s List, as well as a member of the Ladies Go Biking group, died at her home in San Francisco after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

That same mindset continues to be surprised by girls who prefer baseball mitts and hockey sticks to dollhouses or frills, and to call them tomboys and dykes. Since when does being athletic and strong mean a girl is male-identified or manly? Who says

Sensei Jamie teaching Aikido in Jerusalem Joan was predeceased by parents Robert James Deady and Lucille Holmquist Deady, and is survived by brother Timothy Edward Deady of Fairfax, VA, sister Catherine Deady Wilcox of Glastonbury, CT, nephews Benjamin Deady Wilcox of Redding, CA, William Christopher Wilcox of Newport, RI, nieces Siobhan Lucille Wilcox and Dana Carlson Wilcox of Glastonbury, CT, and several cousins who loved and supported her. She is also survived by many dear friends.

Following completion of her master’s degree, she moved to San Francisco.

She graduated from the University of California School of Pharmacy with a Doctor of Pharmacy in 1987. She completed a Residency in Hospital Pharmacy in 1988 at the University of Minnesota Hospitals in Minneapolis. She worked for two years in Albany, NY, as a pharmacist before returning to San Francisco, where she lived for the last 32 years. During her long career as a pharmacist, Joan worked at the University of California Poison Control Center, and most recently with Sutter Health. She retired from Sutter Health in 2013.

on

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BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

2014

Homophobia in sports seems to be rooted in the patriarchal effort to preserve traditional male dominance, and to continue the subjugation of women and disempowerment of genderbenders. That’s a big statement, about which books have been, and are being, written. Suffice it to say that much of sport glorifies male values, top-dog masculinity and testosterone-driven mentalities. Language that trashes women and bashes LGBT people still flows unchecked in locker rooms, behind the scenes and on-the-field. In the most “manly” sports, high school to high-paid pro athletes commit rape and violent crimes at alarming rates, and with even more alarming impunity from serious legal or economic consequences. That they often retain role-model status and command multi-million dollar contracts is only explicable in a still deeply misogynist and homophobic society.

Validating the talents, rights, and very existence of individuals such as Michael Sam—who break sex-role molds and fundamentally refute stereotypes—requires that people shift their perceptions and beliefs about both gender identity and who gay people are. Our society hasn’t known what to do with boys who like flowers and decorating more than football or rough-&-tumble competition. They’re name-called sissies, fairies and “girlie” right in line with the denigration of women and of LGBT people. It’s the same narrowly conditioned mindset that makes it so hard for people to comprehend a guy who’s gay and does like football.

Joan spent her first eight years in El Cerrito, CA, before her family moved to Grand Junction, CO, and later Edison, NJ, where Joan graduated from John P. Stevens High School in 1971.

She then attended the University of Vermont, graduating in 1975, at which time she returned to her roots in CA to attend and graduate from the University of California at Davis with a Master of Science in Nutrition in 1979.

See more

womanhood or femininity don’t go together with power, competitiveness, excellence, achievement? We saw on television that straight women can be enormously gifted, daredevil Winter Olympians, and that these top women can also be moms. Slowly but surely, perceptions and opportunities have been progressing for women in sports.

But not in Sochi, and not in America, is it yet safe for elite female athletes to come out and say when they’re lesbians. And if they publicly married their same-sex partners or had children, their careers would really be done in!

Joan was an excellent cook and published “Low-fat Cooking in the Cultural Blur of California” in 2000. It combined her interest in cooking, nutrition and science.

Joan loved San Francisco and all it had to offer. She enjoyed the food and wine of San Francisco, Napa and Sonoma

PHOTO BY IGOR FARBEROV

The KiAi Way

les, rush passers, and kiss and sleep with men instead of women, most people’s minds go on tilt. They don’t know what to do when confronted with the reality of such a person (especially when he’s black, thanks to racism on top of heterosexism). Homophobes typically choose to discredit the individual, seeing him as an aberration, perhaps not really gay or not really a football player. And they rush to defend the supremacy of macho heterosexuals-only space, spewing specious arguments to damn gay people and keep us out of “their” games and the big leagues.

Meanwhile, salaries, media coverage, and support for professional women’s sports literally pales in comparison to men. I remember watching latenight TV some years ago, when Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam were both winning golf tournaments like crazy. Jay Leno was interviewing Annika, whose records rivaled and even eclipsed Tiger’s. Jay asked about practice rounds the two were reputed to be playing together, and if they bet on the golf course, to which Annika pointedly replied, “Tiger makes 7 times more than I do.” (continued on page 22)

Valley. She enjoyed cycling with local cycling groups, golfing, walking, admiring the beauty of the city and surrounding landscape, and skiing in Tahoe. She took countless photos and videos of California, family and friends. She was devoted to her nieces and nephews, and crafted homemade birthday cards supporting their interests.

She was a focused and determined individual who worked extremely hard as a pharmacist. Once diagnosed, her determination focused on living as long as she could, and as fully as she could. She continued to walk, go to the gym, take yoga, ride her bike, and golf.

She did some form of exercise each day, and enjoyed the outdoors as much as possible throughout her treatment for cancer. She never complained.

Joan left behind a legacy of humility for her professional accomplishments, and served as a model of using sheer will, courage and determination to live each day fully, in spite of rough circumstances. Her family is grateful to all who supported and loved her during her life, and throughout her illness.

A celebration of Joan’s life and legacy is being planned for sometime in the future. Memorial donations in her memory may be made to The American Cancer Society by visiting the website cancer.org, or by calling 800227-2345.

Business Outings

Meet Shane Glacken, VP & Branch Manager Bank of the West, Castro District Office

Photos by Rink Shane Glacken, Vice President and Castro Branch Manager of Bank of the West, joined the bank last year.

With seven years of financial services experience in California and Nevada, Shane has expertise in personal banking and team management. He brings to the new Castro branch an enthusiasm for customer service and problem solving that supports the needs of the community. He’s a Renaissance man too, whom you might spot at the Castro Theater or walking his dog.

We hope that you will “Go West!” as the bank suggests, and meet him in person. We did just that recently.

Bay Times: How did you decide to make the move from your hometown, Reno, NV, to San Francisco? When did you move here and what was it like to find yourself in a new city?

Shane Glacken: Reno was a great place to grow up. Tahoe was my backyard and there was always something to do, no matter the season. After many visits, I realized that San Francisco would be a great place to live and I moved here in May of 2011.

The move was challenging at first, because I only knew one person in the area, but at the same time it was a great experience getting to know new people and building a life in a new city.

Bay Times: What do you enjoy most about living in San Francisco? Do you have any recommendations for friends who come here to visit for the first time?

Shane Glacken: Like the Reno area, there is always something to do in San Francisco. On any given day, I find myself checking out new culinary haunts with friends, or catching a show at the Castro Theatre. I take visitors to as many neighborhoods in the city as time permits. I think it is important for people to see the diversity and richness of the different neighborhoods that make up San Francisco.

Bay Times: Tell us about your career in the banking industry and how you became interested in this field.

Shane Glacken: I started my career in banking as a teller. My college roommate worked as a teller and really enjoyed it, so I decided to give it a try as well. I loved being a teller and the experience of working with people in the community. After six months, I knew that I wanted a career in banking. At the time, I had a great branch manager who helped me learn and understand the business of banking, and I have been in a number of branch roles since.

Bay Times: What has it been like introducing the new Castro Branch of Bank of the West?

When did you learn you would be moving to the branch, and how involved were you in its opening?

Shane Glacken: Introducing the new branch has been a very reward-

ing experience. A big component of being a branch manager is getting to know, and being involved in, the community. It’s even more special because I live here. The Castro is my home. Now that I also work here, I’ve gotten to know the community even better. It also helped that the community and merchant associations have been so welcoming.

Sha ne Glacken: In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. When I need to relax, you can usually find me at the Duboce Triangle Dog Park or catching up on some on my favorite TV shows.

Bay Times: When you aren’t busy being a banker, what are your other interests?

Reach out to Shane at shane.glacken@ bankofthewest.com or stop by at the corner of Market, Noe and 16th and say hello!

Bay Times: Tell us about your volunteer role(s) with the SF LGBT Community Center and any other organizations you Bay Times: In what ways has Bank of the West been actively are active with now. becoming part of the Castro Shane Glacken: I have been inneighborhood? volved with the SF LBGT Center Shane Glacken: Bank of The for two years. When I first started West has partnered with a number working in the neighborhood, I was of community organizations. The introduced to some of the staff and bank has been a long-time support- a member of their board. I was imer of AIDS Walk San Francisco. pressed by the amount of services We have embraced the opportunity they provide and their commitment to partner with other community to empowering the LGBT comgroups since coming to the Castro. munity. I started by volunteering In October, the bank sponsored in their “f irst time home buyer” the SF LGBT Centers Economic classes. I was asked to join the SF Empowerment Week. During the LBGT Center’s Board of Direcweek-long event, numerous Bank tors in June 2013. I also attend the of The West employees lent their monthly Castro Merchants meettime and skills to help facilitate the ings. These meetings help me better workshops and even offer one-onunderstand the community’s needs one coaching. The branch staff also volunteered at the Castro Street and how we can support it. I also Fair during the same week. It was enjoy attending them because they another great way to introduce the showcase how the Castro is such a thriving and vibrant neighborhood. bank to the community.

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(DJ LAMONT continued from page 1) life of clubs and bars, and one that is based upon creativity, education, and inspiration. With that goal in mind, I started Fingersnaps Media Art Services. Fingersnaps is a DJ school where music enthusiasts are taught DJ skills. I founded it in 2003, after cashing out my savings and purchasing new turntables, CDJ players, a mixer and monitors. I also cleared out a spare room in my Mission District apartment to set up an educational DJ studio.

My first marketing efforts were posts on craigslist. Within a week’s time, I got my first call from someone wanting my services. Since then, I have taught hundreds of youths and adults in my studio. I have also taught others at the YMCA, Hamilton Family Center, The California Men’s Gathering, through the San Francisco and Oakland Unif ied School Districts and more.

I f ind it amazing and organic that music has granted me the opportunity to enter such places as a classroom with youth as young as 5 years of age, as well as private homes and some of the finest entertainment venues in the Bay Area. I really have to pinch myself sometimes.

I also am the host and programmer of The Fingersnaps Music Salon on community radio KPOO 89.5 from Wednesdays 12midnight to 4:00amish spinning Disco, The San Francisco Street Inspired House Mix (where I use my self-powered, compact mobile DJ gear to record my set on the streets of San Francisco), NuJazz & Soul and Classic House Music. I also invite literary artists, singer/song writers, and other performing artists to my program in order to showcase the rich and diverse arts in our community.

I still play numerous events throughout the year, from family events; such

Bay Area DJ’s

as weddings, birthday parties, and anniversaries; to large-scale events, such as for the National Center for Lesbian Rights and for SF Pride’s Homo Hip Hop Community Stage, where I have been the stage manger and DJ for 7 years. I also work as a DJ at bars and cafes throughout the Bay Area.

I believe that music is not just sounds, tempo, and rhythm. DJ-ing and music are communication. When I am spinning, I achieve moments of clarity and purpose; I become very emotional. I am able to see the possibility of humans being more than who we are.

Spinning music brings me joy, and I share that joy though each individual song I select for you, my guests.

For more information about DJ Lamont Young, and to hear sample music mix demos, please go towww.fingersnaps.net/dj-lamont.html Photos Courtesy of DJ Lamont

We are lucky to have so many talented DJ’s working in the Bay Area.

The Bay Times asked legendary DJ Lamont to select some of his favorites.

DJ Julio

DJ Lamont at Pride

look@themoonhoney.com DJ Julio’s mother sold records in Mexico, so he was born into a music-loving family with an impressive collection of dance records. He sizably added to that collection in the late 90’s, when he frequently visited San Francisco clubs while working in advertising.

DJ Julio worked at clubs in the city before moving to New York City in 2002. There, he continued his work in the music scene. He took his music to “Burning Man,” where he also built an art car with his father. California beckoned, so he’s back in San Francisco now and will be starting his residency at Driftwood on April 10. “Two by Four” will be every second Thursday of the month. All of the music proceeds will help to fund projects for artists.

Playlist: “Full of Fire” - Al Green “Getting Off on Your Loving” - Skying High “Espero” - Zuco 103 “Can’t Stop” - Tutto Matto “D Train Dub” - D Train “Funkin’ Around” - Longineu Parsons “Get Ready” - Lady “Don’t Nobody” - Fred Everything “Ballad of Dorothy Parker” - Prince “Din Daa Daa” - George Kranz DJ Jason Mitchell Jasonspins.com Jason Mitchell is a club style DJ available for public, private, and social bookings. A dedicated student of the Fingersnaps DJ Academy, Jason has spent hundreds of hours training with DJ Lamont in his Mission District

gender-queer boi and SF native who loves to make you dance!

10. “Show Me The Money” - Petey Pablo

DJ Andro’s Top Ten

DJ Dreme

“Do What U Want” (Feat. Christina Aguilera) - Lady Gaga

facebook.com/DaveonStarDustSadusky

“Heavy Cross (RAC Mix)”- Gossip

Rising star Daveon Sadusky, aka DJ Dreme, is just 18 years old, but this DJ already can get a crowd moving and dancing. DJ Dreme says, “I play all types of music from the oldies to the present. I like to play from an open playlist so that requests can be made for all types of music and songs. Most of all, I just love seeing people have a great time. Let the LGBTQ community commence its partying!”

“It’s Not Right But It’s Okay (Thunderpuss Mix)” - Whitney Houston “S&M (Come On)” - Rihanna “Believe” - Cher “All That She Wants” - Ace of Base “Run Away” - Real McCoy “Show Me Love” - Robin S. DJ Julio Studio. A believer in creating funfilled dance sets that appeal to broad audiences with the ability to mesh generational gaps, Jason keeps busy, rocking dance f loors across the Bay Area 3-4 days per week.

Jason has shared the stage with amazing talent, including The B-52s, P. Diddy, Will.I.Am, Susan Sarandon, Meryl Streep, The Spazmatics and more.

In 2012, Jason created the group Ibiza Vibes, which adds live musicians to DJ sets to create a unique performance experience. For lounges and ambient background sets, a drummer and saxophone player embellish Deep House tracks. For dance sets and stage performance, a drummer and electric violinist bring Jason’s sets to life.

An accomplished video DJ, Jason can combine elements of sound, video, and live music to create exciting dance sets that are dynamic and motion filled. Jason is also the Vice President of the San Francisco Chapter of the National Association of Catering & Events. Jason was awarded the “New Face of Nace Silicon Valley” in 2012.

“Team (Panic City Remix)” - Lorde DJ Rapture 3. Masters At Work - “The Ha Dance” 4. Patti LaBelle - “If Only You Knew” 5. Amel Larrieux - “For Real” 6. Whitney Houston - Every song of hers!

7. Waka Flocka Flame - “No Hands” 8. Beyoncé - “Love on Top,” “Dangerously in Love,” “Cater 2 U” (with Destiny’s Child) and other songs 9. YG - “My Hitta” 10. Sage the Gemini - “Red Nose,” “Gas Pedal”

“Firework” - Katy Perry DJ Milestone www.djmilestone.com Nathaniel Adkins, aka DJ Milestone, lives in the wonderful Bay Area and has a complete love and passion for all manner of people and music. He thrives on the opportunity to mix and match two as often as possible.

DJ Milestone’s Top Ten 1. “Respect” - Aretha Franklin 2. “Running Away” - Roy Ayers 3. “Let’s Start the Dance” - Bohannon 4. “Lovin Is Really My Game” Brainstorm

DJ Andro

5. “Big Time Sensuality” - Bjork

https://www.facebook.com/thedjandro djandrosf@gmail.com

6. “Mesmerized” - Faith Evans

Communicating with the sound and vibration of music, DJ Andro is a

8. “Dreams” - Gabrielle

7. “Old Landmark” - Kenny Bobien

DJ Milestone

9. “The Way You Make Me Feel” Michael Jackson

DJ Rapture Djrapture1@gmail.com DJ Rapture is another exciting talent to come out of DJ Lamont’s Fingersnaps DJ Academy. You can hear a profile, in DJ Rapture’s own words, at: fingersnaps.net/dj-rapture.html.

Here’s DJ Rapture’s list of current song favorites: 1. Janet Jackson - “I Get Lonely” 2. Aly-Us - “Follow Me”

DJ Jason Mitchell 12

BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

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DJ Andro

DJ Dreme

www.facebook.com/page.hodel www.mondayheartsformadalene.com Here at the Bay Times, we had been planning to do a DJ special feature for quite a while, so we were slightly miffed that the San Francisco Chronicle beat us to the punch with an impressive spread on DJ Page Hodel by respected journalist Meredith May (see the piece at www.sfgate. com/music/article/Pioneer-femaleDJ-Page-Hodel-has-marched-toher-5341381.php). But that minor shock quickly turned to happiness, as Page more than deser ves the adulation.

From Bay Times co-publisher and “Betty’s List” founder Dr. Betty Sullivan: “For many women, and men too, in the Bay Area’s LGBT community, there’s no memory of a time when DJ Page Hodel wasn’t there - wasn’t spinning and smiling and bringing the desire to dance into our lives. Who can recall when there was no Page Hodel at the controls, spinning, smiling and shaking

the groove thing of everyone in her presence?”

Sullivan continued, “Page Hodel is a genuinely kind person. She’s always tried to please her audience, and that’s no small task, given the diversity of the many events where she’s been in the control room. Making sound happen and doing so with a smile and unmatched enthusiasm for her assignment - that’s what one might say about DJ Page Hodel.”

“In addition to the gigs she herself has sponsored, DJ Page Hodel has served as mixtress of song for many benef it events in the Bay Area’s LGBT community. Name the cause, and she has probably served as DJ for a benefit event addressing it.” “ DJ Pa g e Ho de l i s g ener ou s , thoughtful and caring. She is a huge asset toward the success of any event she is involved in,” Sullivan added.

“I can no longer count on my fingers and toes the times I’ve moved on a dance f loor with Page nearby in the control booth.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF CASTRO STREET FAIR

DJ Page Hodel

DJ Page Hodel “Sometimes, when I had no one to dance with, I danced anyway with DJ Page Hodel in mind as my dance partner. When I mentioned that once, she smiled and said, ‘Of course

I’ll dance with you!’ and indeed she did. She put her hands up and danced back at me from the control booth, smiled and even maneuvered out on the dance f loor from time to time -

always with one eye on the turn table and ready to head back and fix it if anything needed her attention.”

To cont a ct D J Pa ge Hod el , e m a il page.hodel@gmail.com

DJ Lamont

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Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Weddings, Anniversaries & Occasions section. Inquire how your social announcement can appear free of charge, or how your wedding services ad can be included at a special rate: Publisher@sfbaytimes.com or 415-601-2113.

Round About - Castro Construction Progress - Photos by Rink According to the SF Planning Department’s final concept diagram, Castro Street will soon have wider sidewalks, coordinated trees, bike racks and leaning posts, rainbow crosswalks, etchings of historic figures immortalized in concrete and so much more.

Some call it the Castro Canyon. Some call it “my driveway.” No matter what you call it, the famous twoblock strip on Castro Street between Market and 19th is on the list of famous places sought out daily by visitors from far and near. But changes are not just on the way, they’re here.

For additional information, visit the SF Department of Public Works DPW Projects page (sfdpw.org) and check out the “Castro Street Streetscape Improvement Project.”

Work on the redesign of Castro Street began recently, and Bay Times photographer Rink went to work snapping his cameras to show us what’s underway.

TODAY

A NEW CASTRO STREET

PROPOSED

PROPOSED DESIGN

Mid-Block (Both Blocks)

South of 18th Street Intersection

South of Market Street Intersection

A

B

C

35

35

EUREKA

Diamond Heights

24

21.25

8’

SIDEWALK

PARKING/ LOADING

+/-

35

EUREKA

Diamond Heights

35

24

K

K

12’ SOUTHBOUND

12’

8’

NORTHBOUND

+/-

PARKING/ LOADING

15’

21.25 SIDEWALK

SIDEWALK

EUREKA

Diamond Heights

35

K

8209

8209

8209

19’

10’

SOUTHBOUND WITH CURB-SIDE BUS LOADING

NORTHBOUND LEFT TURN

19’ NORTHBOUND WITH CURB-SIDE BUS LOADING

19.5’

20’

18’ SIDEWALK

SIDEWALK

SOUTHBOUND WITH CURB-SIDE BUS LOADING

20’ NORTHBOUND WITH CURB-SIDE BUS LOADING

24.5’ SIDEWALK

Provide new crosswalk between Muni stop and sidewalk.

B

A

Convert curb-side PM tow-away lane into permanent parking lane.

C

Recongured crosswalks Remove 17th Street-Only Lane Extend Bike Lane

Jane Warner Plaza Improvements, details TBD Historic Harvey Milk Residence and Castro Camera Shop Site mini-plaza.

Pedestrian-Scale Lighting

Maintain and demarcate gas station driveway

Roadway Lighting/Muni Pole Exact placement of site furnishings including street trees, leaning posts and bike racks will be nalized during the detailed design phase of the project.

N Bike Rack

Leaning Post

Relocated Kiosk

C A S T R O S T R E E T D E S I G N - F I N A L CO N C E P T UA L D E S I G N

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BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

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Muni Shelter

Ginkgo Tree

King Palm

Existing Tree

COURTESY OF SAN FRANCISO PLANNING DEPT.

A

A Whirlwind Six Weeks Ahead for Marriage Equality Last year at this time, the United States Supreme Court had just f inished hearing oral arguments in two LGBT cases that resulted in land mark mar r iage equa lity rulings striking down Section 3 of DOMA and Proposition 8. Although LGBT rights are not before the high court in 2014, this year promises to be a barnburner of a year for marriage equality litigation in lower courts with a dizzying sixty cases pending in thirty states or territories of the United States.

Consider what’s ahead in just the next six weeks: On April 10, all eyes will be on the Tenth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals when they hear oral argument in the Utah marriage equality case, Kitchen v. Herbert. In December 2013, the federal district court in Salt Lake City struck down Utah’s exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage, and hundreds of LGBT couples married in Salt Lake City and other parts of the state before the decision was stayed pending appeal.

A week later, on April 17, the Tenth Circuit will also hear arguments in the Oklahoma freedom to marry case, Bishop v. Smith, where the district court in Tulsa invalidated that state’s ban of marriage for LGBT couples. On the same day, a state court in Little Rock will hear arguments in same-sex couples’

Marriage Equality Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis, Marriage Equality USA lawsuit seeking marriage equality in Arkansas, Wright v. Arkansas.

Less than a week after that, on April 23, the federal district court in Eugene, Oregon, will hear arguments in LGBT couples’ challenge to Oregon’s denial of marriage for same-sex couples. The Governor and Attorney General of Oregon have stated in court filings that they consider Oregon’s marriage ban unconstitutional and are ready to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples if the court strikes down the ban. In addition, the LGBT community and allies in Oregon have collected suff icient signatures to qualify an initiative to reverse the ban on the November 2014 ballot.

The community has until July 3 to decide whether or not to pursue the measure, and if the district court

strikes down the ban and marriage equality becomes the law in Oregon, the community will likely not submit the initiative for the ballot.

And three weeks after that, the action moves east to Virginia where, on May 13, the Fourth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals will hear arguments in Bostic v. Shaefer, a challenge to Virginia’s exclusion of LGBT couples from marriage.

In February 2014, a federal district court in Norfolk ruled the state’s marriage ban unconstitutional.

Same-sex couples in a separate class action challenge to Virginia’s ban, Harris v. Rainey, will also appear in the appeal. Virginia’s Governor and Attorney General are not defending the ban, but other state officials are pursuing the appeal.

Decisions in the district and trial courts could come immediately, or shortly after the hearings. Decisions in the federal appellate courts (the Fourth and Tenth Circuits) will likely come within months of the oral arguments. The case for LGBT equality has never been stronger. Stay tuned.

John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney, together for nearly three decades, were plaintiffs in the California case for equal marriage rights decided by the California Supreme Court in 2008. They are leaders in the nationwide grassroots organization Marriage Equality USA.

Wedding Party Etiquette It takes the combined effort of a great team of people to put on a f lawless wedding production, and we sometimes forget to acknowledge that the couple getting married needs all the help they can get. The wedding planning team will handle the décor and all day-of essentials, but there are always lingering duties. It’s natural to think that the couple will handle these, but I’m here to send a message to all wedding parties out there: It’s your job to help! Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll be recognized for being a topnotch member of the party.

Of fer your help. When you’ve agreed to be in a wedding party, make sure you ask the couple if they need your help. They may say they don’t need anything at the time. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, however, make sure you check in again. Usually there will be something for you to do then.

ing out programs or signs, and doing other things. If you’re crafty, you are the perfect person to help. Announce those creative skills early on. You’ll be a source of relief.

Elements of Style Chanda Monique Eddens Split the duties. There is power in numbers, so consider splitting the lingering duties among all members of the wedding party. Guess what? The grunt work will then get done on time.

Get crafty. There are many loose ends in the weeks leading up to a wedding, involving preparing favors, typ-

Frank Woo and Sheldon Sloan are celebrating the anniversary of their marriage 14 years ago, officiated by Rev. Chip Barker.

Sandy Sachs and Whitney Walters, founders of girlbar and Dinah Vegas, were married recently in West Hollywood. The happy couple is expecting a baby!

Enlist your talents, or not. We all have special talents. If those talents involve entertainment, it’s acceptable to offer them to the couple for their wedding day. For example, maybe you’re an accomplished singer or a poet. Conversely, many of us may not have as much great talent as we think, or your style could not match that of the couple. If the couple declines your offer, don’t take it personally. There are plenty of other ways you can help.

Chanda Monique Eddens is the executive designer and owner of A Monique Affair.

Chanda aims to provide a beautiful and memorable experience, delivering an event that will enchant both you and your guests. www.amoniqueaffair.com/

A surprise wedding, officiated by Senator Mark Leno, for Neil Sims and Timothy Lucas during Neil’s birthday party at the Flood Mansion.

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Kneel Only to Truth, Follow Only Beauty, and Obey Only Love LEO (July 23 – August 22) Out with the old, Leo. Face the truth about philosophies and health habits that have become more harmful than helpful. Renew both body and spirit by reinventing long-running rituals.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) Let it go, Sagittarius. Now’s your chance to shed unwanted baggage that has harbored in your heart long enough. Ditching unfounded fears will free up space for a fresh start.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) Reboot your belief system, Taurus. Answers that appeased you in the past are no longer likely to satisfy you now. Muse with an open mind. Your soul speaks in mysterious ways.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) Venture out, Virgo. Your creative prowess is profoundly potent now. Galvanize the go-getters who vibe with your vision, and give it your best. Permit your passion to take the wheel.

CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) Stand tall, Capricorn. Cosmically, you’re confronting climactic opportunities to command some respect.

Don’t allow the past to dominate your dreams or dictate your future. Step into your power.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20) Difficult slowdowns in your daily routine are designed to remind you where your motors need a tune-up.

Your public responsibilities require peak performance now, Gemini. Take a pit stop.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22) Though your sign is lovingly lauded in the partnership department, every union comes with its ups and downs. Look closely, Libra. Rocky relationships reflect where you must restore balance.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18) “Mind over matter,” Aquarius. Planetary pulses are helping to shape new perspectives on inner peace and well-being. Explore alternative approaches that bridge subconscious patterns with self-care. Meditate much?

ARIES (March 21 – April 19) Your growth spurt is gaining new ground, Aries.

Take a closer look at conditions that cramp your style – particularly where home and career are concerned. Deconstruct whatever constricts you. better.

Astrology Gypsy Love Lebanese-born Kahlil Gibran’s philosophical 1923 classic The Prophet gained phenomenal popularity in America’s 1960s counterculture and New Age movements. Because Gibran’s creative stylings courageously defied classical cultural standards, he’s regarded as a literary hero and political rebel.

Currently, we’re roused to renounce restrictive routines. Consider Kahlil’s comments: “Yesterday we obeyed kings and bent our necks before emperors.

But today we kneel only to truth, follow only beauty, and obey only love.”

CANCER (June 21 – July 22) Are you wrestling with restlessness, Cancer?

Erratic impulses are derivations of deeper cravings. Who or what pushes back against your personal growth? Now’s a fine time to reclaim your freedom.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) Own it, Scorpio. The Universe urges you to celebrate the art of self-expression. Whatever you’ve suppressed will emerge one way or another, so you may as well make it sparkle!

PISCES (February 19 – March 20) Prioritize your higher purpose, Pisces. Intellect and inspiration join forces now. Higher learning takes on a magical new meaning when you feed on facts that align with your authentic mission.

Visit www.GypsyLoveProductions.com

Gypsy Love Productions is dedicated to inspiring love and unity with music, dance, and astrology.

As Heard on the Street . . .

compiled by Rink

AL L PHOTOS BY RIN K

What do you wish was a tax deduction that is not?

Nina Grossman

Garza Peru

“Service dog expenses, which are medically necessary, and should be deductible.”

“Fake boobs for drag shows.

It’s essential to have them to perform, and they are always sold out in San Francisco.”

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Yoko O-Yes

(the dog - with owner Bruce Beaudette)

“I would like to write off real jewelry, real diamonds and real gold, not the fake stuff that Bruce Beaudette makes me wear.”

Edward Mycue

Frank Pietronigro

“Purchases of tickets to cultural events and the cost of transportation to anything that Smack Dab or Magnet sponsors.”

“The value of the time in nonpaid internships and the time invested in volunteering.”

Arts&Entertainment !

Applause and admiration for Liza Minnelli, who was stunning at a recent, intimate Davies Symphony Hall performance. She has raised millions of dollars for AIDS research and prevention, and included the Charles Aznavour song “Comme ils disent” (poetic words about sexuality and unrequited gay love) in her performance. She preceded it by sharing her support for the LGBT community.

Like her famous mother, Judy Garland, Minnelli takes audiences to the edge, diving fearlessly into performances with tremendous integrity, vulnerability and muse-driven talent. A revealing moment came about halfway through the show, when the basic mike she was holding conked out. Her long-time music director and accompanist, Billy Stritch, came to the rescue and quickly fixed the mike. How refreshing it is that she does not rely on fake-microphone adjusted sounds.

Liza lets you see her very soul in performances, and if you are receptive, the impact is exhilarating.

The concert included numerous favorites, such as “New, York, New York,” “Cabaret,” “Maybe This Time,” “The World Goes Round,” “Love Is Here to Stay,” and the delightful “Ring Them Bells.” All were backed by Stritch on piano and a 6-piece seamless ensemble that included horns, reeds, two percussionists and a bass player. Most

of the musicians have been with Liza for years.

Stritch—brilliant, as a lway s — sa ng w it h Liza on “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love.” Another melancholy Aznavour song, “You’ve Let Yourself Go” (about a marriage on the rocks), had the audience riveted to her every word.

Liza is one of the world’s great storytellers, selecting rich, often poetic, material. She made her name with brassy showstoppers, but pieces like those of Aznavour are a better match now for her focused, emotion-filled delivery that relies more upon vocals than dancing.

She looked beautiful on stage, even in quiet moments while just watching Stritch play. She has evolved her own, distinctive style that radiates her character, elegance, sharp wit and intelligence.

Liza has always been a true artist, daring audiences to join her for the ride. She came out of the great American theatrical tradition instilled in her by her father, stage and film director Vincente Minnelli. Outside of the theater, as for opera, the art form might seem overwhelming, but in a performance hall, it can be transformative.

Like an abstract expressionist painter, Liza even reminds you of the “in the moment” realism and power.

For example, she stopped the show a

(AUDRA MAE continued from page 1) world. What killed me about it was when I heard Nina’s, it took me bethat most of the actual places this yond where I thought “popular” mumusic came from are still oppressed. sic could go. No other voice in the These places changed history, but entire history of the world has ever history has forgotten them. I didn’t affected me like hers. She sings the see many monuments to true heroes, truth. She makes me laugh and cry ya know? Mostly old white guys who and she demands my attention with caused the pain and suffering that just a breath. Her piano playing is “The Blues” was born of, in the first absolutely gorgeous, and I consider place. It was incredibly haunting and her the true Queen of Soul. Long mysterious and Clarksdale, Missis- may she reign. sippi, will cry out in my heart forever.

Bay Times: Your work resoBay Times: Speaking of journates with palpable integrity. neys, your career has already Is it challenging to preserve taken all of us listeners on an such creat ive freedom and incredible ride. How did you honesty in the music business? first know that you wanted to be a singer/songwriter?

Audra Mae: Thank you!!!! That Audra Mae: I grew up onstage, so means so much to me! Yes, it’s hard I was performing before I was fully to explain to people who aren’t artpotty-trained. It wasn’t until my ists why you can’t take that job that friends got me a guitar for my 17th pays like crazy because it’s “ just not birthday that I started to channel you” or it “ just doesn’t feel right.” my creativity through playing and However, it’s hard for artists to do writing music, myself. Even then, it the daily, on-the-grind, work it actutook me about four years to actually ally takes to get your art out into the consider myself a songwriter. I was world. So, the goal should be to build always a singer. So I guess I should a team around you who believes in have known, but it was second na- you. If they believe in you and you ture the moment it started, so it took work your ass off, you learn to trust me a while to see what was right in each other and beautiful things can front of me. happen in this business when teamBay Times: Who are some of work is at its most efficient. your mentors and musical in- Bay Times: You are such a powf luences, and how have they af- erful role model for women, givfected your life and music? en your intelligence, command Audra Mae: Nina Simone is it. I of the stage and how you’ve hangrew up listening to every kind of dled your work. Do you think music I could get my ears on, but it’s still harder for women, as

couple of times when she was unsatisfied with her performance. She did the sections again, until she hit the notes to her satisfaction.

has forged her own unique path, which takes guts in this often sexist, stereotype-driven world. It is all the more astounding, considering the inherent pressures brought on by her family, which was forever in the spotlight.

She received several standing ovations throughout the concert. For her encore, she performed Cole Porter’s “Ev’r y Time We Say Goodbye.” It seemed fitting that she chose a song written by a gay man. Many in the LGBT community—and particularly gay men— have long appreciated how Liza

Long live Liza! Our love for you is here to stay. Please come back to San Francisco soon.

Jennifer Viegas is the co-publisher of the “San Francisco Bay Times.”

Bay Times: Our paper is the oldest fully LGBT owned and operated publication for the gay com mun it y in t he Sa n Francisco Bay Area. We know you a l ready have a st rong queer following that continues to grow. What do you think about the advancements made in terms of LGBT rights over the past few years, and do you think that music has helped in that effort?

opposed to men, to be taken seriously for their music?

Audra Mae: Yes, it’s harder. Absolutely. But what are you gonna do?

You can’t change it from the outside.

Shoulders back, chin up and walk, with a smile, directly into the belly of the beast. Otherwise, go home.

You’re in the way.

Bay Times: One of the videos for “Addicted to You” tells of a torrid lesbian love affair. Did you help with that story line?

Any thoughts about it?

Audra Mae: I’m so blessed to be alive and making music at a time when compassion seems to be the global issue. On every level, the people all over this planet are demanding compassion above all virtues. I wish it was such a no-brainer to everyone in the world but maybe, someday, it will be for our children.

Music has always been, and will always be, the medicine, but without publications like yours, the LGBT communit ies around the world wouldn’t have a steady source of truth and community. To know you belong is the most important feeling a human being can feel.

Audra Mae: I wish I could say I thought of it, but I didn’t see it until it came out. I thought it was beautiful!

So much fun! And it was nice to see two young actresses own the screen without showing much skin. It was steamy and dangerous and classy all at the same time. I’m excited to be a part of it.

PHOTO COURTESY OF REAF

By Jennifer Viegas

Bay Times: We would love to see you perform again here in SF. Do you have a tour in the works that might bring you here?

Audra Mae: I don’t have any tour dates in San Fran at the moment. I love that town! When the fog rolls in, it seems like you’re in a city in the sky. The food is wonderful, music is

everywhere, people are paying attention to life, and the history of art and culture is so rich and unique. I’d love to head up there soon and just go museum-hopping for a few days.

Bay Times: Your career is so full of twists and turns. It’s hard to predict what you might do next?

Care to fill us in on any of your future goals with your music?

Audra Mae: I’m making my third record right now and writing and singing for lots of other projects. It’s truly a wonderful time to be making music. There are so many artists finding each other and working together like mutual muses. I can’t wait for the world to hear what I know is coming!

Bay Times: Please mention anything else that you would like our readers to know about.

Audra Mae: I would like to let your readers know that, though we surely have a long way to go, we’ll never get there by focusing on our pain. We must focus on our joy! Go celebrate tonight! Raise a toast to those who came before us, and to the legacy we leave behind!

Be good to each other. We’ve got work to do.

To learn more about Audra Mae and her music, please visit: www.audramaemusic.com/ BAY T IM ES APR IL 4,

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Round About – All Over Town – Photos by Rink

Historical novelist Steven Saylor introduced his new book, Raiders of the Nile, at Books Inc’s Castro location.

Activist and entertainer Randy Jordan (right) accompanied his husband Mali (Ernest Andrews) who performed at Magnet’s Smark Dab program in March.

Self defense instructor Ken Craig led a seminar sponsored by Magnet and the Castro Community on Patrol organization.

Garza Peru and Toran Jones staffed the SF Department of Public Health’s table at the Castro Farmer’s Market offering information on HIV prevention.

The Castro storefront window of the Johnson Tax Group featuring a promotion for Project Open Hand’s Dessert First Gala to be held on Wednesday, April 16.

SF Pride board member Jose Cital and Patrick Noonan of the Grand Ducal Council sold raffle tickets at the VIP Society of Supporters Party at Lookout bar.

SF Pride’s George Ridgely, Lisa Williams and Joe Wagenhoffer at Lookout bar for the VIP Society of Supporters Party benefitting the Pride organization.

Reigning Empress Misty Blue and Emperor JP Soto were among the SF Pride supporters at Lookout.

Steven Satyricon belted out a song in the re-mounted spectacular Cockettes show “Pearls Over Shanghai.”

See more

Stories @sfbaytimes.com Twitter, and find us Facebook.

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UCSF AIDS Health Project’s Lori Thoemmes and Dr. Jim Dilley led the cake cutting during the organization’s 30th Anniversary Party.

UCSF AIDS Health Project staff members at the organization’s Anniversary event.

The Strange But True Tale of The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden the fact that it contains “one mystery on top of another.” However, despite some intriguing moments, this overlong documentary is as slow as the giant tortoises that inhabit the island paradise of Floreana, where much of the action unfolds. Moreover, viewers unfamiliar with the source material (“Satan Came to Eden” by Dore Strauch) will need a scorecard to keep track of the many extraneous characters.

Film

Gary M. Kramer The pre-credit sequence of The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden promises a “strange and sinister drama,” and uses dramatic headlines to sensationalize

This strange, but true, story opens in 1929. Friedrich Ritter (voiced by Thomas Kretschmann), decides to turn his back on civilization and live with his mistress Dore Strauch (voiced by Cate Blanchett) at the “world’s end,” in the Galapagos islands. The filmmakers, Daniel Geller and Dayna Goldfine, make the point that Ritter didn’t quite fit into conventional Berlin society. He was a “genius with a dark side,” and his efforts to get away from others only

proved he didn’t get along with others when “intruders” came to Floreana.

The f ilm sets up the conf lict with the arrival of another couple, Heinz (voiced by Sebastian Koch) and Margret (voiced by Diane Kruger) Wittmer.

They adapt well to island life, whereas vegetarians Friedrich and Dore (who has multiple sclerosis) struggle, and find their new home is no place to rest. While not especially friendly, the increasingly tense situation is further complicated by the arrival of Baroness Eloise von Wagner Bosquet (voiced

by Connie Nielsen), who is accompanied by Robert Philippson and Rudolf Lorenz, her two lovers. She hopes to realize her dream of building a grand hotel on the island, much to the other couples’ chagrin.

Suffice it to say, the Baroness’ arrival disrupts things greatly. When she re-

ceived gifts from visitors to the island, it sparked jealousy. And her antics generated unwanted (and maybe they are true?) headlines about having a court of twelve noblemen or a terror regiment.

In one of the film’s best vignettes, a pirate film the Baroness made, entitled, The Empress of Floreana is shown, and features seduction, betrayal, and even some cross-dressing. Mid-way through

the short, it is revealed that the Baroness may not be who she says she is. This is an interesting, but not unexpected, wrinkle in a story full of unanswered questions.

a nd honor s it s d iver se h i stor y. T he Cast ro St reet Redesig n was t he f irst “streetcscape” project funded under a $248 million street repair bond measure approved by voters in 2011. This includes the 20 hanging f lower baskets already installed. The Rainbow Honor Walk will be installed this summer. An exa mple of a squa re is on d isplay at t he H RC store i n t he Cast ro. Boa rd President A lan Lau welcomed Castro neighbors and friends and introduced board members a nd a nnounced t hey are looking for more members. I must say I a m t h r i l led we w i l l be hav i ng rainbow crosswalks, but would like to please request a yellow brick road leading to my apartment. Executive Director A ndrea A iello thanked the design and reconstruction team for their help i n i mpr ov i n g t he C a s t r o a nd men t ioned t he of f icia l t heme: “ It’s ha rd work looking beautiful!” She said even t hough t he streets are tor n up, “The Castro is still open for business.” She said the sidewalks should be f inished

by Ju ne 17, i n t i me for P r ide Week .

T he Com mun it y Pa r t ner Awa rd was presented to The Cafe for constant ly mon itor i ng t he t ables a nd cha i r s at Jane Warner Plaza. castrocbd.org

The Galapagos Affair raises many theories about the island’s inhabitants. Was there jealousy among the women? Did (continued on page 22)

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb From a Fun Nun

Sister Dana sez, “Here’s the latest homophobic quote from the irReverend Pat Robertson: ‘’’In Jesus’ time, if t wo men decided they wanted to cohabit together, they would have been stoned to death. So Jesus would not have baked them a wedding cake, nor would he have made them a bed to sleep in because they wouldn’t have been there.’ Wow! Can’t ya just FEEL the Christian love?! No?”

A L L I A N C E H E A LT H P RO J E C T celebrated their 30th anniversary with an open house at A HP Services Center at 1930 Market Street with a reunion of current and former staf f, clients, and suppor ter s . T he L GB T Q a nd H I Vaf fected clients they ser ve experience h igh levels of st ig ma and st ress. Too m a ny a re m a r g i n a l i zed , u n i n su red , a nd under-ser ved. T he resu lt is t hat they are disproportionately af fected by mental illness, substance use, violence, a nd homelessness when compared to the general population. So despite the fact that in 1984, they imag ined that A HP would be gone, along with A IDS, within a few years, they now pledge to be here for the next 30 years.

A n i m pr e s s i v e t i m e l i n e s t r et c he d f rom one wa l l to t he ot her, st a r t i ng with 1979, when people avoided being ident i f ied a s bei ng from SF because of “a st r a n g e, new, g ay i l l nes s .” I n 1981, Center for Disease Control reported the f irst rare pneumonia case.

Later, CDC reported 1,112 U.S. cases

of A IDS - with 176 in San Francisco.

Thirty years of HIV followed. Now, in 2014, there is hope that gene therapy might prevent HIV; but regarding the neg at ive new s , s i nce 2013, N iger i a , Uganda, and Russia passed repressive anti-LGBTQ laws under international protest.

In the memorabilia room were framed resolutions and certif icates of honor to A H P from va r ious pol it icos, t-sh i r t s from the past, photo albums, newsletters, pamph lets, book lets, and book s from 30 years of A HP history.

THE C A STRO/U PPER M A R K ET COMMUNIT Y BENEF IT DIS T R ICT held it s A N N UA L SOC I A L at the Patio Cafe. The mission of the C a s t r o/ U p p e r M a r k e t C o m mu n it y Benef it District is to prov ide ser v ices that improve the quality of life in the n e i g h b or h o o d , e m ph a s i z i n g c l e a n , safe, beautiful streets. It also promotes t he a rea’s econom ic v it a l it y, foster s t he Cast ro’s un ique d ist r ict ident it y,

LUSTER - A N A MER ICA N SONG BOOK , wa s per for med at Dav ies Sy mphony Ha l l by t he S A N F R A N CISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS, featuring special guest star A nn Hampton Callaway and the world premiere of Tyler’s Suite. It was a celebration of 20t h Cent ur y A mer ica n music, sung by the men of the chorus and Callaway doi ng t i meless c la ssics f rom G eorge Gershw in, Cole Por ter, Duke El l ington a nd I r v i ng Berl i n. A nd w it h Tyler’s S uite in t he second act, SFGMC brought toget her eight of A mer ic a’s most celebrated composers to add to the 21st Century Songbook. At the VIP pre-part y, SFGMC Conductor Tim Seel ig lauded Nola n Gasser, composer of “ I Have Song s You Haven’t Heard,” Lance Horne for “A Wish,”

(continued on page 22)

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See many more Calendar items @ www.sfbaytimes.com

compiled by Robert Fuggiti

Vampire Lesbians of Sodom – Virago Theatre Company. $28. 8 pm.

(1301 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley) www. viragotheatre.org. One of the longest running plays in Off-Broadway history, Charles Busch's outrageous comedy tells the saga of two fatally seductive vampiresses.

Mr. Little Jeans – Rickshaw Stop. $12. 9 pm. (155 Fell St.) www. rickshawstop.com. Enjoy a special performance of the Norwegian chanteuse’s debut album, which was released in March of 2014.

Women’s Jazz Festival – The Escena Country Club. $55. 7 pm to 10 pm. (1100 Clubhouse View Dr., Palm Spings) www.lucyandgail.com.

The festival opens with an unforgettable evening of music, comedy and performance art.

Aging As A Spiritual Practice – Point Reyes Presbyterian Church. Donation based. 1 pm. (11445 Highway 1, Point Reyes Station) www.ptreyesbooks.com. Share your journey of aging with a small, caring community of others on the same path.

Mommy Queerest – Exit Theatre. $15-$25. 8 pm. (165 Eddy St.) www.divafest.com. Mommy Queerest is a comedic, autobiographical, one-woman show written and performed by Kat Evasco.

Boy Bar – The Café. $5. 9 pm to

PHOTO BY C ARL STUDNA

HAIM will be at The Fillmore on April 9.

2 am. (2369 Market St.) www.guspresents.com. The Castro’s hottest weekly party with go-go dancers and early drink specials.

LGBT Center Soiree – LGBT

Community Center. $95. 6 pm to 12 am. (1800 Market St.) www. sfcenter.org. A fun-filled night that celebrates the beat and rhythm of our diverse community.

Chaos – Beatbox. $10/$20. 10 pm to 4 am. (314 11th St.) www.beatboxsf.com. Tristan Jaxx and DJ Big Kid present the April edition of Chaos.

Trainwreck Cabaret – The Dark Room. $20. 10 pm. (2263 Mission St.) www.trainwreckcabaret.com.

Enjoy San Francisco’s most unusual variety show with hilarious twists and outrageous fun.

California Dreamin – Herchurch Lutheran. Free. 4 pm.

(678 Portola Dr.) www.sflgfb.org.

San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band presents California Dreamin, a musical celebration of our Golden State.

The World’s Funniest Bubble Show – The Marsh San Francisco. $11. 11 am. (1062 Valencia St.) www.themarsh.org. A show packed with spellbinding bubble tricks of every kind that will conjure laughter and gasps of amazement.

Glamazone – The Café. Free. 9 pm to 2 am. (2369 Market St.) www.cafesf.com. Enjoy drink specials during the day and drag performances through the evening.

Macy’s Flower Show – Pier 30/32. Free. 10 am to 3 pm. (Pier 30/32) www.macys.com/flowershow. A flower show and sale held

by Macy’s Union Square that will benefit San Francisco’s own Delancey Street Foundation.

Radical Vinyl – El Rio. Free. 8 pm. (3158 Mission St.) www.elriosf. com. A revolving cast of well known record collectors spin the 20

BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

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most eclectic mix of vinyl you'll find in San Francisco.

Karaoke Night – Toad Hall.

Free. 8 pm. (4146 18th St.) www. toadhallbar.com. Sing your heart out on stage at Toad Hall’s weekly karaoke night.

Make Contact – AMSI Real Estate Services. Free for members/$20 for guests. 6 pm to 8 pm.

(2800 Van Ness Ave.) www.ggba. org. Make contact and connect with LGBT & allied business professionals at this month's Make Contact event.

Chicks with Shticks Exhibit – San Francisco Main Library. Free. 10 am to 6 pm. (100 Larkin St.) www. sfpl.org. Now for the first time, Kinsey Sicks artifacts— scripts, sheet music, costumes, photos and other memorabilia—are gathered in one place.

Beach Blanket Babylon – Club Fugazi. $25-$130. 8 pm. (678 Green St.) www.beachblanketbabylon.com.

Enjoy Steve Silver’s famous musical revue packed with hilarious pop culture and political antics.

Trivia with Miss Kitty – Wild Side West. Free. 7 pm (424 Cortland Ave.) www.wildsidewest. com. A free weekly trivia night filled with fun prizes. .

The Habit of Art – Z Below Theatre. $15-$35. 8 pm. (470 Florida St.) www.zspace.org. Alan Bennett’s latest play about theatre, poetry and music.

HAIM – The Fillmore. $25. 7 pm.

(1805 Geary Blvd.) www.thefillmore.com. The musical trio from San Fernando Valley that has gained global recognition comes to the Fillmore for one night only.

Queer Ancestors Project 2014 – LGBT Community Center.

Free. 6 pm to 9 pm. (1800 Market St.) www.queerancetorsproject.org.

The Queer Ancestors Project is devoted to forging sturdy relationships between LGBTQI people and our ancestors.

Go Deep – El Rio. Free. 8 pm to 2 am. (3158 Mission St.) www.elriosf. com. Cruisy guys, drag queens and man-on-man lube wrestling make this a night to remember.

Nightlife – California Academy of Sciences. $12. 6 pm to 10 pm. (55 Music Concourse Dr.) www.noisepop.com. Enjoy a fun evening of science, cocktails and live music.

Cinderella – SF War Memorial Opera House. $22+. 8 pm. (301 S. Van Ness) www.sfballet.org.

Following an enormously successful run in 2013, Christopher Wheeldon’s magical production of Cinderella is back.

Classixx – The Independent. $15.

9 pm. (628 Divisadero St.) www. theindependentsf.com. This electronic musical duo brings a refreshing change from the trance and techno inspired Electro that has been dominating dance floors.

Fever – Endup. $20. 10 pm to 10 am. (401 6th St.) www.theendup. com. An all night dance party with guest DJs late into the night.

Couples Workshop – Dr. Illana Berger. $250/couple. 10 am to 4:30 pm. (1832 Goulding Rd., Oakland) illana@mindfulpartnership.com. A 2-part seminar designed to strengthen your relationship through mindfulness, skill building exercises, teachings and collabora-

tion with your partner.

Midnight Show – Divas. $10. 10 pm. (1081 Post St.) www.divassf. com. The premier transgender club in San Francisco, with live DJs and performances.

La Bota Loca – Club 21. $5. 9 pm to 4 am. (2111 Franklin St.) www.club21oakland.com. A weekly Latino dance party with hot go-go dancers and strong drinks.

Resilient – OMG. Free. 5 pm. (43 Sixth St.) www.clubomgsf.com. A free monthly dance/social event for HIV+ guys and allies.

Arlo Guthrie – Marin Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium. $25-$40. 3 pm. (10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael) www.marincenter.org.

Enjoy a performance by American folk singer Arlo Guthrie.

Beer Bust – 440. $8. 3 pm to 8 pm. (440 Castro St.) www.the440. com. Drink or bust!

Georgia O’Keeffe and Lake George – de Young Museum. $25.

9:30 am to 5:15 pm. (50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.) www.deyoungmuseum.org. Presenting Modern Nature: Georgia O’Keeffe and Lake George, organized by The Hyde Collection in association with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Through May 11.

Monday Night Bluegrass – Amnesia. Free. 6 pm. (853 Valencia St.) www.amnesiathebar.com. Enjoy a night of Bluegrass music every Monday at this cozy Mission bar.

Mahogany Mondays – Midnight Sun. Free. 8 pm. (4067 18th St.) www.midnightsunsf.com.

A live drag variety show with $5 drink specials all evening.

show happening every Tuesday night.

Funny Tuesdays – Harvey’s.

Free. 9 pm. (500 Castro St.) www. harveyssf.com. Ronn Vigh hosts an LGBT comedy night.

Castro Farmers’ Market – Noe St. Free. 4 pm to 8 pm. (Noe St. between Market and Beaver St.) www.pcfma.com. The very popular

Castro Farmers’ Market features Northern California’s freshest fruits and vegetables, live music, and fun.

Smack Dab Open Mic Night – Magnet. Free. 8 pm. (4122 18th St.) www.magnetsf.org. An open mic night for all with host LarryBob Roberts.

Tiga – 1015 Folsom. $15. 10 pm.

(1015 Folsom St.) www.1015.com.

The Montreal based DJ/producer delivers an electrifying set.

Drumming Series with Barbara Borden - $425-$445. 7 pm to 9 pm. (85 Liberty Ship Way #103, Sausalito) barbara@bbbeat. com. Learn drumming techniques and explore rhtyms in this 6 series class meeting every other Wednesday.

Gay Comedy Sketch – Mark I. Chester Studio. Free. 6:30 pm.

(1229 Folsom St.) www.markichester.com. A hilarious queer comedy

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(ROSTOW continued from page 9) No Promo Homo Only a short space left to cover the dismissal of a gay Boy Scout troop leader (c’mon guys, give it up already for Christ sake) or perhaps the ten-yearold tomboy who was told by her school to act more feminine (say what?).

Instead, let’s consider whether it’s time to officially designate “homosexual” a pejorative term, as suggested recently in the New York Times.

I say that, although there’s still a place for the word alongside “heterosexual” in some contexts, I agree with the Times that the term is negative. Our orientation far transcends sex, and yet our adversaries relentlessly present us as nothing more than sexual malfeasants. And they do it for a reason. We are not gay men and women to them.

We are bad actors, perverts with deviant and unnatural sexual habits. Our claims to civil rights are as laughable

as the protests of the pedophile or the farmer caught humping a sheep.

growing up on the island as being a wonderful experience. They also address the possibility of the island being haunted, as well as “inbreeding,” as when one living relative, Carmen Angermeyer, explains how marriage between islanders made her father-inlaw her brother-in-law. It may be an amusing anecdote, but it seems slightly irrelevant to the central mysteries at hand.

of their tale. These moments may be breathers to allow viewers to absorb all the dense information, but they also seem to emphasize that this story could have been told more briskly and efficiently.

“Homosexual” strengthens this association, and it’s no coincidence that the only people who commonly rely on the term are the denizens of Fox News and the religious right. The divide between people who use it and people who don’t is reason enough to consign “homosexual” to the trash heap of linguistic exiles. Be gone with you, “homosexual!” arostow@aol.com

(FILM continued from page 19) the Baroness have an affair with Ritter?

And when the Baroness and Philippson disappear, were they murdered? There are emphatic, dramatic moments about Lorenz’s insistence on selling his lover’s things. It is “shocking” when a tablecloth and a copy of “The Picture of Dorian Gray” that belonged to the Baroness turn up on the island after she is gone, suggesting murder is afoot.

The filmmakers play up the “everyone has a motive” for killing her (and Philippson), but it seems to be only speculative. The Galapagos Affair espouses theories that build without payoff.

When Ritter dies, there are two stories—one about Dore and one accusing Margret—that “explain” his demise.

Audiences are asked to choose the one they think is appropriate. It is an unsatisfying approach to the mystery.

THE KAIA WAY continued from page 10) The LPGA, the most enduring (since 1950) and successful professional women’s athletic organization in any sport, is far from on-par with their male PGA counterparts in prize monies, tournament events and job opportunities. It has been resorting more to “sex-sells” strategies to gain fan interest and corporate sponsorships, and has seen only 2 star players feel able to come out through the years (Muffin SpencerDevlin and Rosie Jones), despite the prevalence of lesbians amongst tour players and teaching pros.

Like music and art, sports are an integral part of our humanity. What images do you have of yourself as a physically active person? What ideas do you carry about boys and girls in sports, about femininity and masculinity, and about gay men and women as athletes, competitors and winners?

Every time an LGBT athlete comes out, entrenched sexist attitudes and

heterosexist power structures are challenged. Like marriage equality, strides are being made, the playing field is shifting and strides are being made.

Change is happening! Every woman and LGBT person who takes to the field is a heroine and a hero, breaking stereotypes, tearing down walls and shattering glass ceilings. As athletes at any level, we are redefining what have been patriarchically-determined gender “norms.” We are f linging doors open for the next generation, and for ourselves right now, to come out and play beyond limiting sex-role boundaries, to be as happy and healthy as can be, freed from ridiculous restrictions and embodying our own true selves, every moment of our lives.

For more information about Jamie Leno Zimron and her work, please visit www. thekiaiway.com/

(TAX TIPS continued from page 1) 4. Retirement Accounts To save taxes your beneficiaries will pay after your death and allow the pay out to be stretched out as long as possible, check your IRA/401K plan designations. A same-sex spouse may now elect to roll over such a plan to his/her own IRA plus postpone required minimum distributions until he/ she turns 70 1/2. Also, consider making a year-end retirement account contribution for your spouse (if applicable) and receive an additional deduction.

5. Social Security Apply for social security marital benefits and the lump sum death benefit, if applicable. Currently, the Social Security Administration is only processing claims for samesex married couples who reside in a state that recognizes their marriage. If you reside in a state that recognizes same-sex marriage, apply for benefits before you move to a state that does not recognize same-sex marriages.

6. Estate Taxes If your spouse died and the estate paid estate taxes on the portion of the estate that you inherited, file a claim for refund. If you and your spouse did not do any estate planning prior to death, be sure to consult with an attorney or an accountant in a timely manner, as there are estate planning techniques and elections available for married couples after death. Even if you are not required to file a federal estate tax return, consider filing one to take advantage of portability. Portability allows your deceased spouse’s unused federal exemption amount to be rolled over to you as the surviving spouse. The estate must timely file an estate tax return to elect portability.

7. Making Gifts Consider the effect of transferring assets, gift tax free, to your spouse. When making 22

BAY TIMES APRIL 4 ,

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gifts to loved ones and children, consider the benefits of gift-splitting. One spouse may now utilize the other spouse’s annual gift tax exclusion amount by electing to split gifts (annual gift tax exclusion: $14,000 for 2013 and 2014).

8. Estate Planning If you reside in a state that has a death tax and recognizes same-sex marriages, establish a marital trust, Qualified Terminable Interest Property Trust (QTIP) or disclaimer trust for your spouse in your Will. If you reside in a jurisdiction that does not recognize same-sex marriages, you must plan as if you are single and execute a Will as state laws control inheritance rights. Your spouse will not automatically inherit or be entitled to any of your estate if you die without a Will.

Throughout the film, there are interviews with living descendants of Floreana families and they talk about

Pa mela Stewa r t, who w rote Tyler’s Suite, Stephen Schwartz for “Brother, Because of You,” and John Jacobs, genius choreographer.

trade czars. And there’s plenty of lively d a nc i ng a nd si ng i ng en ha nced w it h ornate costumes and gobs of glitter in the mix!

C lement i’s fa m i ly w a s a l so present .

S eel ig ca l led Tyl e r ’s S u it e one of t he most important works the Chorus has exec uted - not ju st for t he L GB TQ community alone, but for anyone who has experienced the tragedies resulting from bullying. On screens were meaning ful photos from Tyler’s childhood.

Ca l laway soloed a gorgeous “ Wit h a Song in My Hear t.” The whole show brought tears of sadness and of joy as well, especially when Callaway gave a “ d iva blessing” and improv ised a hilarious Castro love song w ith suggestions from the audience. The program concluded w ith an encore of Harold A rlen’s iconic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” A n absolutely stel lar concert!

The musical stars in order of appeara nce: T he 3 Wobbl ing Robin Sisters - Zelda K oznofsky (as Del ight fu l), B i r d ie - B ob Wa t t ( D e lu xe), Je s s e C or t ez ( D e l ic iou s); S t e ve n S a t yricon (A ll A mer ican hero Captain Eddy), Eric Tyson Wertz ( poor little L i L i Fr u st r at a), Ru sse l l Bl a c kwood (ev i l Mot her Fu), E a rl Pau s ( h e n c h m a n C h o p C h o p) , o r i g i n a l C oc ket te Ru m i M i ssabu (n a st y Madam Gin Sl ing), Joh n F law ( bad C h a n g ) , S l o a n e S m i t h ( Wo o d y ) , James Toczyl (Shangri La idol), Flynn Witmeyer (Hank, Wuwu), Bonni S u v a l ( L ot t ie Wu), G a b r ie l R o s s ( lovelor n Sebast ian), Noa h Haydon (Russian temptress Petrushka), Bruna Pa l meiro, Diego Gomez, Jessica Fi n n , Br y n L au x ( W hores), R o se Bobrick, Victoria Hibbert ( Denizens), Steve Bolinger (Stewpot), and “Sweet Pam” Tent ( Mrs. Goldberg, t he i n s u f f ic ie nt c h a p e r one). A l l together, this cast is a well-oiled, eyepopping, i mmora l mach ine of hysteria. My only complaint is the dearth of weenies waving in the wind, as in the old Cockette days. I mean, consider the f irst syllable of their name, for gawd’s s a ke! A ny w ay, go see t h i s del ic iou s show and rock out with your Cockette out! thrillpeddlers.com

Hosted by gorgeous d rag legends Peaches Ch r ist a nd Hek l i na, t he a n nua l DR AG QU EE N S OF COM EDY at t he Cast ro T heat re feat ured fabu lous l ive per for mances by com ic D Q s C o c o Pe r u , pr o duc er S a s h a Soprano, Vicky Vox, Lady Bunny, Shangela, Pandora Boxx, Willam, and Bianca Del R io. I do loves me my SI NGI NG D Q s , s o pr op s g o t o Lady Bunny for her string of hilarious pa rod ies, i nclud i ng « A l l T hat Ji zz;» to Shangela’s or ig ina l nast y ly r ics to « Pr ivate Dancer;» to Willam dressed as an adult Little Orphan Annie singing her ver y adult lyrics to «The Sun W i l l C ome O ut Tomor row ;” a nd to Coco for her “That’s Life,” dedicated to a l l us “elderly fol k s over 30.” A l l the comics were really funny, although each set could have been edited a tad for brevity.

CUMMING UP!

Update your Form W-4 with your employer to change your status to married and increase or decrease your exemptions. Make a note and place it with your tax preparation documents so your tax preparer can advise you if another revision is recommended.

THR ILLPEDDLERS presents PEAR LS OVER SHANGHAI as a 5th anniversary production at the Hypnodrome, 575 10th Street, now through May 31st, Thursdays, Fr idays, Saturdays, 8pm. This show is an incredible EssEf f historical piece - f irst done by the famed Cockettes in 1971. New dialogue is by Cockette Scrumbly Koldew yn and Cockette “Sweet Pa m” Tent, musical direction by Koldew yn, directed by Russel l Blackwood.

This is a comic mock- operetta about wh ite slaver y, opiu m dens, a nd m is cegenation set in the colorful world of 1937 Sha ngha i. L i n k M a r t i n pl aces his stor y of good and ev i l in t his exotic “old sin town” f illed with singing sailors, humorous whores, foolish immortals, handmaidens and henchmen, all taking their places in streets teeming w ith a mix of foreig n ar istocrats, opiu m add ict s , a nd g a ngl a nd s l ave -

Same-sex couples in a Domestic Partnership or Civil Union should consider getting married, as different laws apply. Same-sex married couples who divorce may now be able to take a deduction for alimony payments. Same-sex spouses may now take advantage of innocent spouse protection rules.

Nanette Lee Miller, CPA, is the National Leader of Marcum LLP’s LGBT Practice Group. Marcum LLP is one of the largest independent public accounting and advisory services firms in the nation. For more information, please visit: www. marcumllp.com/lgbt

Geller and Goldfine further stretch out the film’s running time by showcasing scenes of the flora and fauna of the Galapagos throughout the telling

© 2014 Gary M. Kramer Gary M. Kramer is the author of “Independent Queer Cinema: Reviews and Interviews,” and the co-editor of “Directory of World Cinema: Argentina.” You can follow him on Twitter @ garymkramer.

(SISTER DANA continued from page 19)

9. Payroll Tax Withholding

10. Other Points

In addition, a sequence featuring the childhood home of Ritter, and a scene at his family gravesite, seem extraneous. Photos show, and a voiceover explains, how he was scarred by World War I. This may provide context for his obsession with Nietzsche, and his need to drop out of society, but it just hangs there like most of the facts on display.

That said, the use of photographs, film clips, and voiceovers of letters and other published writings, are well done.

There is something interesting about this unsolved mystery. Alas, The Galapagos Affair buries the lede.

T H E L GBT COM M U N I T Y CE N T E R’s a n nua l f u nd ra isi ng soi ree, A JA Z Z T R I B U T E T O S F ’ S B E A T GENER ATION, at Cit y View at t he Met reon , w i l l feat u re a hosted ba r, gourmet morsels, music, dancing, and l ive enter t a i n ment . Sat u r d ay, A pr i l 5th, 8pm to midnight, V IP reception: 6:30 to 8pm. It w i l l be a bohem ia n, ja zz-f i l led n ight t hat g ives beat n i k s, hipsters, poets, and romantics the opportunity to celebrate and support all the ways in which the Center inspires our community to be stronger, healthier, and more fabulous. sfcenter.org L E S B I A N/G A Y C H O R U S O F SA N F R A NCISCO joins with CIT Y SW ING to present SW ING BR EA K, two sparkling evenings of singing and big band jazz on Friday and Saturday, A pr i l 11t h a nd 12 t h , 7:3 0 pm . T he Mission Cultural Center, 2868 Mission Street, will be mag ically transformed to resemble a Holly wood supper club of old. lgcsf.org or call 415-779-5428 EQUA LITY CA LIFORNI A is proud to honor two City and County of San Francisco of f icials, Barbara Garcia a nd D e n n i s He r r e r a at t he S A N FR ANCISCO EQUALIT Y AWAR DS, Saturday, April 12th, 6pm cocktail reception, 7pm dinner, 9pm after-party,

the Palace Hotel, 2 New Montgomer y Street. Music by Frenchie Dav is of TV’s American Idol. eqcaawards.org THE BIG GAY COMEDY SHOW is a f u n f u nd ra iser for R ICH MON D/ E R M ET A I DS F OU N DAT ION on Apr il 13th at the Mar ines’ Memor ia l Theater, 609 Sutter Street. It’s a queer musical and standup comedy treat with a dozen of your favor ite funny fagg y friends. richmondermet.org T H E S I ST E R S OF P E R P E T UA L INDULGENCE are getting ready for Ea ster. M ag net (at 18t h a nd Ca st ro) w i l l host a sma l l A RC HI V E E X HI BITION/CEL EBR ATION at 7-9Pm on April 17 with a short program - so let the Holy Thursday commence! Later at 10 pm, we’re put t ing on a show at t he E dge ba r, COOK IE DOUGH MONSTER SHOW: HOLY BROAD WAY! with music from these Heavenly Broadway Musica ls: Book Of Mor mon , Jes u s C hr i st S upe rst ar, G od spell , Joseph And T he Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat , and Sister Act. Sister Dana is rumored to perform along with his fellow nuns.

A nd SPI 35TH A N NIV ER SA RY EASTER IN GOLDEN GATE PAR K is the following Sunday. More info on that in the next issue.

SISTER BA R BI MITZVA H’S CEL EBR ATION OF LIFE will be held at the MCC Church on April 12th. Doors open, 5:30pm w ith the event starting at 6pm sharp. Dress theme = wear her favorite habit color of pink. thesisters. org We l l s Fa r g o a n d S H A N T I P RO J ECT present t hei r 13t h a n n iver sa r y f u nd r a i s er, D OU B L E D OW N F O R SHANTI, on April 12th, 3-6pm at the City Club of San Francisco, 155 Sansome St reet, for casino games, cockt a i l s , enter t a i n ment , s i lent auct ion, and a short inspirational program. A ll proceeds directly benef it Shanti’s Margot Mur phy Breast Cancer Prog ram, wh ich prov ides ca re nav ig at ion, advocacy, emotional support, and health and wellness activities for 500 women with breast cancer annually. shanti.org Sister Dana sez, “Fred is Dead! Is it wrong to thank God that vile homophobic preacher F red ‘G od Hates Fags’ Phelps is dead and gone? Maybe I’ll let Nathan Phelps, his son, speak: ‘Fred Phelps is now the past.

Unfortunat ely, Fred’s idea s have not died w ith him , but live on , not just among the me mbers of Westboro Baptist Church , but a m o n g t h e m a ny co m m u n i t i e s a n d s m a ll minds that ref use to recognize the equality and humanity of our brothers and sisters on this small planet we share. I will mourn his passing, not for the man he was, but for the man he could have been.’ Sister Dana sez, Amen!”

Round About - SF Gay Men’s Chorus - LUSTER

Photos by Steven Underhill & Jo-Lynn Otto

P HOTO BY S TE VEN UN DER HI LL

PHOTO BY S TEVE N UNDERHI LL

PHOTO BY S TEVE N UNDERHI LL

PH OTO B Y JO -LYN N OTTO

PH OTO B Y ST EVE N U NDE RH I L L

PHOTO BY JO-LYN N OTTO

P HOTO BY JO-LYNN OTTO

PHOTO BY STEVEN UN DERHIL L

PHOTO BY JO-LYN N OTTO

PHOTO BY STEVEN UN DERHIL L

P HOTO BY ST EVEN UN DERHIL L

P HOTO BY ST EVEN UN DERHIL L

P HOTO BY ST EVEN UN DERHIL L

P H OTO B Y J O -LYN N OTTO

Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall came alive on March 25 and 26 with talents of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Tim Seelig, and special guest Ann Hampton Callway. Act I of LUSTER An American Songbook included classics by George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Richard Rogers & Lorenz Hart, Duke Ellington.

Act II, Tyler’s Suite, featured the premiere a multimedia presentation of the story of Tyler Clementi. Next SFGMC event: Jazz Hot Casino Cabaret, a fundraiser, Friday, April 25 at Beatbox. More info: sfgmc.org

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