San francisco Bay Times May 29, 2014 by San Francisco Bay Times

May 29-June 11, 2014 | www.sfbaytimes.com /SanFranciscoBayTimes

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San Francisco Bay Times Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Steve Silver’s Beach Blanket Babylon Pages 13-15

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VOTE ELECTION ENDORSEMENTS JUNE 3

“

Alice stood with me from day one for our common goals of LGBT rights and a smart justice system. Alice and I know David Chiu will be a strong voice for the these goals in the Assembly. Be sure to vote in this important election on June 3.

”

Kamala Harris, State attorney General

STATe ASSemBLy DiSTriCT 17 david chiu candidates

local ballot measures YEs

Controller Betty Yee

Superior Court Judge Office 20 Kimberly Toney Williams

Governor Jerry Brown

Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones

Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom

Board of Equalization District 2 Fiona Ma

State Attorney General Kamala Harris

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson

Treasurer John Chiang

State Assembly District 19 Phil Ting

NO Prop. B will impede production of new housing throughout SF and could lead to back room deals made without environmental impact reports and contributions for affordable housing, transit, parks and schools.

Paid for by Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club PAC, FPPC #842018.

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Building Coalitions in San Francisco for Over 40 Years 2

BAY TIMES MAY 29 , 2 0 1 4

PROP A: Rebuilds San Francisco’s infrastructure to be disaster ready.

state ballot measures YEs

YEs

PROP 41: Provides housing for California’s homeless veterans. PROP 42: Protects transparency in local government.

Continuing Harvey’s Fight to Change the System about being true to one’s self and being different. Harvey Milk endured criticism and personal attacks so that everyone, regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation, had a seat at the table. Despite his leadership, our LGBT brothers and sisters endure discrimination and closet doors remain, even in San Francisco.

Building a Coalition of Us-es Supervisor David Campos Last week, I joined San Francisco’s LGBT community in commemorating the 84th birthday of Harvey Milk. With the unveiling of the United States Postal Service’s Harvey Milk stamp, it is hard to dispute that it has become mainstream to talk about Harvey Milk. Harvey Milk is celebrated for being one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States. He gave hope to the LGBT community when it was facing acts of aggression and hostility. However, Harvey Milk’s legacy is not only about being queer, but also

This week, controversy surfaced when Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory School announced that it would not include the senior portrait of Jessica Urbina because she wore the “wrong” outfit. Jessica’s tuxedo did not conform to the school’s policy that female students must wear dresses in their senior portraits. With an outpouring of support for Jessica by fellow students, the school recanted on its initial decision. I respect Jessica’s ability to remain true to herself and I believe that we should work to support and empower those with the courage to be different. In the 1970’s, Harvey Milk was trying to change the system. He believed in government’s duty to all citizens and spoke out as an advocate for LGBT rights. Today, we cannot forget that,

despite our many victories in the LGBT community, it is not enough to simply be a part of the system. When one person or one group is oppressed, we are all oppressed. When a person is discouraged from self-expression, our own individuality suffers. We need to continue Harvey’s f ight to change the system, so that it is just and fair for everyone. Harvey Milk’s legacy is one that calls us to fight for justice. I am urging you to join me because the fight for justice includes all of us and relies on all of us—whether you are queer, an immigrant, or a minority. Let us not only walk in the footsteps of a great leader, but also forge ahead together on the path to justice for all. David Campos is a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors representing District 9. This column for the “SF Bay Times” was inspired by Harvey Milk’s efforts to build a coalition of what Milk termed “us’es,” meaning communities that value diversity and attempt to leave no one behind. For more information about Supervisor Campos and his work, please visit www. sf bos.org/index.aspx?page=2117

You Can Play! and sexist name-calling as a typical part of sports banter.

The KiAi Way Sensei Jamie Leno Zimron Peak Performance Speaker and Trainer OK, kids, it’s almost summertime. Days are sunny and warm so, for most of you, there are no excuses to be inside or on the couch instead of up, out and about. This month’s message is: You Can Play! These three small, but important, words carr y a big impact for ever yone’s hea lt h a nd happi nes s. “You” means YOU! “Can” means you have the power and the capability. Physical activity and f itness are a choice each person makes, for their own well-being and even longev it y. “ Play ” mea ns f it ness can, and ought to be, fun, so f ind what you enjoy and just do it! You Can Play is also the name of a wonder f u l project suppor t i ng equal participation of LGBT people in sports. In recent columns, I’ve hoped to encourage g reater aw a renes s of t he ex tent of ho mophobia and sexism in the sports world, as well as the often deeply limiting effects these have had on our psyches and lives. There are, however, power f u l ways we a re chang ing stereot y pes and openi ng up fa lse gender bou nda r ies ever y t ime we come out to play athletically. T he “Ca n” i n You Ca n Play is aimed toward ensuring that LGBT people a re a ct ua l ly a l lowed to play sports and have equal access to at h let ic oppor t un it ies, wh i le bei ng able to be t r ut h f u l about who they are, including their sexuality. As things still stand, adults as well as k ids face homophobic

Coaches, teammates, commentators and fans are not suf f iciently aware of t he slur s, deg radat ion and outright bullying that go on, and that they too often per petuate. Just as consciousness has been r i s i ng to stop r a c i sm, a nt i- g ay la ng uage a nd behav iors ca n no longer be tolerated. Locker rooms and playing f ields need to become safer, more respectful places for gay people. Scholarships, jobs and pay need to be equally available regardless of gender or sexual orientation. From its found ing severa l years a go, You Ca n P l ay h a s been a joi nt ef for t of g ay a nd st r a ight allies who realize that homophobi a i n s por t s a f fec t s ever yone. Grow ing up, Pat r ick Burke had not iced how d i f f icu lt it was for his gay brother, Brendan, to feel comfortable or receive fair treatment as they both pursued their love of sports. The brothers knew this wasn’t only a gay issue. Ever yone suf fers when anyone fails to realize their potential, or worse yet, when young gay athletes even commit suicide due to bul ly ing, exclusion and despair. In a welcome statement on t he project’s website, Patrick writes:

practice and compete in fear and in si lence. Through educat iona l for u m s a nd s pec i a l L GBT a nd g ay/s t r a i g ht f r i e n d s h i p s p or ting events, these non-prof its are c at a ly zi ng cha nge “to create a spor ts landscape where at h letes and coaches are judged solely on the strength of their talent, effort and potential regardless of their sexual orientation.” If you like baseball, gay or profoundly mov ing stories, Rounding T hird by Walter Meyer is a must read. While f ictional, the book is a l l too rooted in t he har row ing realities of life in Ohio for two isolated teenage boys who make their h igh school ba seba l l tea m a nd f i nd t hemselves fa l l i ng i n love. Meyer is an excellent author who probes the awful irony of love inviting hate crimes simply because it’s gay, and whose message as a speaker is: “Ending bully ing, or coping with it, really comes down (continued on page 26)

“ We hop e t o pr ov ide a me a n s for at h letes , coaches , a nd fa n s to stand up and create an atmosphere of inclusion…Freed from t he burdens of fea r a nd sha me, LGBT athletes will be free to play to their full potential, making our teams, our leagues, and the sports t hemselves better, stronger, and more enter t a i n i ng. It’s t i me to change the way the world thinks about athletes—both straight and gay. Talent, work ethic, and character a re a l l t h at mat ter when eva luat ing a player. I f you can play, You Can Play!” T he project i s a n i n it iat ive of GForce Sports, which focuses on what they’ve aptly termed “The Inv isible Athlete”: lesbian, gay, bisexua l and t ransgender player s who have had to g row up,

The Bay Times is proud to be a sponsor of San Francisco Pride 2014. BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

Black Coalition on AIDS Announces Name Change, New Structure and New Programs

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Aging in Community

OurAge Fitness

Perry Lang I believe there are two critical questions facing small ethnic and LGBT nonprofit organizations today: How do we remain relevant and how do we combat charity fatigue?

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Richard Alexei Certified Personal Trainer / Biomechanic Medical Exercise Practitioner Geriatric Specialist

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In an effort to address the first question, it is my pleasure to announce that the Black Coalition on AIDS (BCA) will soon adopt a new name, a new structure and new programs. BCA is scheduled to take on the new name in July, becoming the Rafiki Coalition for Health and Wellness (RCHW ). The name change will better ref lect our diverse service menu and our core purpose, which is to promote health equity and eliminate health disparities in black and marginalized communities in San Francisco. If we don’t remain relevant and attempt to address the growing health needs of our community, shame on us. The health of black people in San Francisco, both old and young, is no secret. Black San Franciscans suffer disproportionately from most diseases when compared to their white counterparts. For example, the lung cancer rate for blacks is 85.5 per 100,000 cases, compared to 49.6 for whites; the asthma rate for blacks is 21.5% compared to 15.3% for whites; the death rate for black males due to ischemic heart disease is 219.1 per 100,000, compared to 148.8 for whites, and the overall rate of HIV/ AIDS diagnoses among blacks is 295 per 100,000, compared to 143 per 100,000 for whites. Our commitment to HIV/AIDS remains strong, but we also need to be fresh and relevant to the growing reality of our aging community. And I trust that we are on the right track.

We savored Budapest, Paris, Prague, and coming home to The Sequoias.

BCA/Rafiki provides a range of services, including: (1) disease education, (2) nutrition education, (3) movement/exercise classes, (4) complementary and alternative medicine, and (5) health screenings. BCA also manages an 11-bed transitional housing facility for formerly homeless HIV-positive clients. Remaining relevant to the community also entails addressing the health and wellness needs of an aging population, many with chronic illness. BCA/Rafiki is looking for opportunities to expand its work with seniors at the George W. Davis Senior Center in Bayview and explore palliative care services if and when appropriate. The agency is responsible for some of the most innovative health and wellness services in the Bay Area, including its Rafiki Wellness Passport Program, committed to improving health biomarkers or changing negative health behaviors for all graduates in 90 days. The agency also operates an LGBT-targeted program known as “Living Well,” a monthly wellness support gathering that also promotes HIV testing and monitoring of viral loads. In addition to a staff of 20, BCA has more than two dozen culturally competent health practitioners, including instructors in acupuncture, therapeutic message, yoga, ref lexology and more. No agency has done more to remain relevant to the growing health needs of our overall community. In terms of combating charity fatigue, BCA/Rafiki is looking beyond traditional funding and is also embracing social entrepreneurship. Last year, for example, the agency renovated an

LGBT Resources for Seniors • Openhouse: 415-296-8995 openhouse-sf.org/ • Family Caregiver Alliance: 415-434-3388 www.caregiver.org • Institute on Aging: 415-7504111, www.ioaging.org/ • National Resource Center on LGBT Aging www.lgbtagingcenter.org/ • Project Open Hand San Francisco: Nutrition Services, 415-447-2300 www.openhand.org/ • SAGE: 212-741-2247 www.sageusa.org/about/ • Shanti Project, Inc: HIV Services and Life Threatening Illnesses, 415-674-4700 www.shanti.org/ Alzheimer’s Association Programs and Services: • 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-2723900, www.alz.org/norcal/; Online Community: www. alzheimersblog.org/lgbt-forum • Memory Clinic, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center: 408-530-6900, mydoctor.kaiserpermanente. org/ncal/facilities/region/ santaclara/area_master/ departments/memoryclinic/ index.jsp

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 old nightclub space and moved to 601 Cesar Chavez Street, between Third Street and Pier 80, between Potrero Hill and Bayview Hunters Point in southeast San Francisco. Our plan is to remodel and open a café and commercial kitchen in September to supplement unrestricted revenues and offer culinary opportunities for those (continued on page 26)

Health News One of the World’s Most Powerful RNs Pens Lesbian Love Story Friends of Naomi Dr. Naomi Jay, RN, NP, PhD

Wouldn’t it be comforting to travel to exotic places knowing that someone’s taking care of your home? Morris Bol and Lewis Crickard do this all the time. They live at The Sequoias, where they enjoy the people, the gardens and the food, which is so good, they rarely cook. They also love the location, which is close to everything San Francisco has to offer. Does this sound like your kind of place? Call Candiece at (415) 351-7900 to learn more.

A Life Care Community 415.922.9700 | sequoias-sf.org 1400 Geary Boulevard

This not-for-profit community is part of Northern California Presbyterian Homes and Services. License# 380500593 COA# 097

Since 2004, BCA has steadily expanded its service menu to include health and wellness through its Rafiki Wellness programs. BCA’s service expansion was a natural progression in response to a growing number of HIV-positive clients who were aging and developed comorbidities, such as kidney disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. In 2005, the BCA Board of Directors off icially expanded the agency’s mission to include “health disparities.” Today, the agency records more than 3,500 community contacts, conducts more than 200 workshops and classes, and hosts the largest African American health summit in San Francisco.

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W hat do nursing, mat hemat ics, 18th centur y lesbian lovers, and the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell have in common? The answer is Anna Curren, whom I wish to introduce to you. She is a remarkable talent in the medical f ield who has invented several important instructional materials, including a tool to teach nurses how to g ive certain injections. There is a good chance that most nurses you meet have lear ned from A nna’s text s or other instructional products. I caught up with her during the recent NCLR anniversary gala. Born nearly 80 years ago in Newfoundland while it was still a Briti s h c olony, A n n a f i r st st ud ie d nursing in Mont rea l. T h is was

followed by a stint as a nurse in Boston and Maine. She returned to Canada and completed her BSN at Dahousie Universit y in Nova Scotia. Soon after this, she drove her brand new V W to San Francisco. Anna eventually went on to be a nursing educator who, upon realizing the inadequacy of the teaching materials, simply created her ow n. Her texts have sold over a m i l l ion copies and t hey include (continued on page 26)

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National News Briefs Compiled and with commentary by Dennis McMillan

NYC, NY - Fox News Helps Homophobes Hijack Christianity - 5.20 Seattle, WA - Gay Scouts Ask Amazon to Cut Funding as National Group Convenes - 5.22

Fox News is witnessing the nasty byproducts of its endless campaign to depict extreme, virulent homophobia as a normal part of mainstream Christianity.

The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is kicking off its national meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, after a difficult year in which the organization took flak from all sides for its decision to welcome openly gay children, but not openly gay adults. Membership has shrunk, businesses have dropped funding, and religious sponsors have condemned the popular youth organization for enacting a halfway policy of inclusion that offends practically everyone—whether you’re for or against LGBTQ equality.

It’s long been standard practice at Fox News to conflate anti-gay bigotry with Christianity. For instance, the network rushed to defend Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson after he compared homosexuality with bestiality and equated gay people with “drunks” and “terrorists,” with Sean Hannity describing his comments as “old fashioned traditional Christian sentiment and values,” and Fox News commentator Todd Starnes defending Robertson as upholding “the teachings of the Bible.”

Rather than descending on the national meeting, however, gay rights advocates decided to march over 2,000 miles away on Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle, Washington. The e-commerce giant includes the BSA in a list of nearly one million organizations that consumers can choose to donate to through the company’s charitable giving program, AmazonSmile.

Meanwhile, Fox has repeatedly touted business owners who refuse service to gay couples, taking up their mantle in regular “Fight for Faith” segments. Fox has championed some of the country’s most extreme anti-gay hate groups as mainstream Christian organizations. When New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio declined to attend his city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade over its ban on LGBTQ groups, Fox attacked him as a “religious bigot.” And the network regularly describes even basic legal protections for LGBTQ people as “anti-Christian.”

Members of the gay rights groups Scouts for Equality and GLAAD hand-delivered a Change.org petition with over 125,000 signatures asking Amazon to cut ties with the BSA for as long as it continued to discriminate against openly gay adults. That Amazon hasn’t already is somewhat surprising, given the company’s reputation as a strong ally to the LGBTQ community.

Now, a new anti-gay controversy has once again provided fodder for Fox to depict extreme anti-gay bigotry as grounded in mainstream Christianity. HGTV cancelled a forthcoming reality show to be hosted by brothers Jason and David Benham. The cancellation came after Right Wing Watch unearthed the brothers’ history of extreme anti-gay activism, including condemning homosexuality as “demonic” and “destructive.”

“Obviously, they’re known (at Amazon) for being very progressive and having great policies regarding LGBT employees,” said Pascal Tessier, considered the first openly gay Eagle Scout approved under the BSA’s new protocol. “We’re asking them to change this one little thing; we’re not asking them to change who they are and what they represent.”

Anchor Megyn Kelly asserted, “gay rights are more and more protected in this country,” while the same didn’t hold for “Christian beliefs and Christian rights.” Right-wing radio commentator Dana Loesch and Democratic strategist Jessica Ehrlich discussed the Benham brothers controversy. Perfectly encapsulating the right’s bogus homophobia-as-Christianity narrative, Loesch dubbed Ehrlich an “anti-Christian bigot” for criticizing the brothers’ extreme anti-gay views. Methinks Fox is too damned foxy!

In the Human Rights Campaign’s most recent Corporate Equality Index, which measures companies’ commitment to inclusivity, Amazon netted a high score of 90. Yet AmazonSmile is currently sticking by the BSA and other anti-LGBTQ equality groups, such as the National Organization for Marriage (NOM,) which campaigns against same-sex nuptials. Let’s just hope Amazon eventually refuses to smile on BSA!

Source: mediamatters.org

Source: msnbc.com

Drexel Hill, PA - Ellen DeGeneres Is a ‘Poor Role Model’ Says Catholic School Principal - 5.21

Salt Lake City, UT - Utah Governor Says Failure to Defend Marriage Bans Courts Anarchy - 5.23 Utah Governor Gary Herbert says public officials who refuse to defend their states’ bans on same-sex marriage are shirking their duty and courting anarchy. “For elected officials, governors, and attorneys general, to say pick and choose which laws they will enforce, I think, is a tragedy and the next step toward anarchy,” Herbert said at his monthly press conference. Herbert was referring to decisions in states such as Oregon and Pennsylvania, where governors and attorneys general have either not defended marriage bans in court at all or declined to appeal judicial decisions striking them down. Both states saw their bans voided by federal judges last week. “I find it very disappointing,” he said of these officials’ actions. “Voices here in our community, media and others, ought to, in fact, call them on the carpet and say, ‘You have a responsibility to defend the law that’s been put on the books by the people.’” Utah’s ban on same-sex marriage was struck down by a federal court in December, but the state is appealing the ruling. “My job is to represent the people of Utah and follow the law on the books,” Herbert said. “It’s very clear to me. I’ve sworn allegiance to the constitution of Utah and the constitution of the U.S.” Utah voters approved a constitutional amendment prohibiting same-sex marriage in 2004. However, some state laws, even state constitutional amendments, may violate the U.S. Constitution, and the latter document is the final word on the matter, law professor and Equality Utah Board Member Clifford Rosky pointed out. Also at the press conference, Herbert was asked if he thinks sexual orientation is innate or a matter of choice; at first he said it was a choice but then he backtracked. “I think it’s unclear.” No, Governor, you are unclear about equality! Source: advocate.com

Bismarck, ND - North Dakota To Be Nation’s Last Unchallenged Same-sex Marriage Ban State - 5.2 The nation’s last unchallenged state same-sex marriage ban is about to lose that status. “There will be a case filed challenging North Dakota’s same-sex marriage ban,” says Joshua Newville, a Minneapolis-based civil rights attorney who filed a suit against South Dakota’s ban on behalf of same-sex couples there. Newville is in talks with advocates and attorneys in North Dakota and confirmed that either he or another attorney will bring a lawsuit against that state’s ban within six to eight weeks. Until last Wednesday, just three of the 33 states that ban same-sex marriage had not been sued over those policies. But same-sex couples sued Montana that day and South Dakota on Thursday, leaving only North Dakota’s unchallenged. The same-sex marriage movement has enjoyed a streak of more than a dozen victories in federal courts since a pivotal Supreme Court decision last summer, striking down a central part of the Defense of Marriage Act and granting federal recognition to same-sex married couples. Since then, no state ban has survived a court challenge, according to the Human Rights Campaign, which advocates for same-sex marriage. The latest two federal decisions, overturning bans in Oregon and Pennsylvania, were delivered last week with officials in both states saying they would not appeal those decisions. Same-sex couples are now allowed to legally marry in 19 states. More than two in five Americans live in such states, according to HRC. North Dakota similarly lacks explicit protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation, a reality Newville has made clear to couples expressing interest in taking on that state’s constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, passed in 2004 in a 73% to 27% vote. Much has changed since DOMA was enacted in 1996. It’s only a matter of time when all America will be truly equal on the marriage front. Source: washingtonpost.com

The principal of a Catholic elementary school in suburban Philadelphia is apologizing to parents for having used a photo of celebrity Ellen DeGeneres on an invitation to an Oscars-themed graduation dance. St. Andrew Elementary School principal Nancy Matteo wrote in an email to parents that using the photo was “completely wrong” because DeGeneres “lives her life outside the teachings of the Catholic Church,” Philly.com reported. The site said it obtained the text of the email, which doesn’t specifically mention DeGeneres’ sexual orientation but calls her a “poor role model.” DeGeneres came out as gay in 1997 and married actress Portia de Rossi in 2008. “A role model, as defined by Webster’s Dictionary, is a person who is unusually effective or inspiring in some social role, job, position, etc.,” Matteo said. “This does not describe her at all. We work so hard to be good role models, and then I go and do something stupid!” DeGeneres hosted the Oscars in 2007 and 2014. The image on the invitation shows her holding an Oscar statue accompanied by the phrase “Live from the red carpet.” Matteo said in the email that she was “obviously NOT thinking” when she included the photo. She asked that the invitations be returned so she can destroy them and distribute new ones. Spokesman Ken Gavin of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia said the Bucks County principal apologized of her own accord after parents questioned the photo. He said Catholic schools are “firmly rooted in Gospel-based values and the teachings of the Church” and any promotional materials developed by the schools are expected to “feature images and themes that correspond with their core mission and identity.” No, Ms. Matteo, you did nothing stupid—that is until you and other homophobes were “not thinking” and decided to destroy the invitations! Source: edgeonthenet.com

Local News Briefs Major Construction Work in Castro To Be Completed Before Frameline Festival and Pride Parade Castro Street between Market and 19th Streets is one of the most well known neighborhood commercial districts in San Francisco, serving the needs of local residents and being the historic center of LGBTQ community. The renovation project will enhance the streetscape experience with widened sidewalks, repaving, new lighting, and street trees. Additionally, in coordination with the community and local businesses, the streetscape project will host the Rainbow Honor Walk, with inlaid plaques of LGBTQ heroines and heroes as well as decorative crosswalks. Bay Times sat in on a series of four meetings regarding the etchings in the Castro sidewalk to be known as the History Walk—20 different squares relating in chronological order the historical landmarks of the Castro, from “pre-1776: Eureka Valley is a verdant grassland where native Yelamu people live nearby;” to “1963: The Missouri Mule, the first gay bar in Eureka Valley, opens and an influx of gay residents and businesses revitalize the neighborhood, which comes to be known as the Castro;” to “2013: A jubilant crowd fills Castro Street to celebrate the Supreme Court decision allowing same-sex marriages in California.” The construction work on Castro Street between Market Street and 19th Street is still moving ahead on schedule and soon there will be a more walkable and beautiful street for all to enjoy. We have been promised by authorities that by the time of the Frameline San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival and San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration & Parade in June, all of the major renovations, including the sidewalk widening, will be complete, leaving only mostly aesthetic improvements like planting, painting the rainbow walk, refurbishing Jane Warner Plaza, and light post installations to be completed afterwards. Supervisor Scott Wiener urges everyone to make an extra effort to visit local merchants during this short disruption. Story by Dennis McMillan

BAY TIMES MAY 29 , 2 0 1 4

Anti-Eviction Mapping Project Report Reveals True Purpose and Harm of Ellis Act Over a hundred tenants from San Francisco took to the Capitol recently to protect their community from unfair evictions under the Ellis Act, a state law that requires a state solution. Tenants or advocates for tenants’ rights shouldn’t tolerate thousands of unfair evictions. State Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco), the author of the bill to reform the Ellis Act, said it best: “The business model of a landlord is 100% occupancy. The business model of a speculator is 100% vacancy. Those are two very different business models.” Help San Franciscans stop their community from being destroyed by real estate speculators! The recent Anti-Eviction Mapping Project report reveals that the Ellis Act and its legislative history shows the purpose of the Act was to allow landlords, not speculators, to exit the rental housing business. 3,610 units have been removed from the rental market in San Francisco under the Ellis Act (1997-2013). At least 10,000 San Francisco tenants have been displaced through the Ellis Act. Owners commenced 51% of the Ellis Act evictions within the first year of their ownership of the property. The majority of those were during the first six months of ownership. 78% of Ellis Act evictions are commenced by owners within their first five years of ownership of the property. 30% of units are Ellised by known serial evictors, meaning they have used the Ellis Act to evict tenants in other properties. Many of these investors have entered, exited, re-entered, and re-exited the rental business, evicting tenants from multiple buildings. Raising the Roof for Renters, the annual fundraiser to support tenants’ rights, will be held June 12, 6-9pm, at 111 Minna Gallery in San Francisco. Tenant-leaders and advocates for tenants’ rights from all over the state, as well as several esteemed honorees, will be in attendance. More information is at tenantstogether.org. Story by Dennis McMillan

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BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

Real Estate and Design Ring Them Bells

Since June is upon us and Gay Pride and marriage equality are on my mind, I am taking a break from remodeling to share some of my favorite ideas for creating a unique, romantic and memorable wedding celebration. Conventional weddings have grown incredibly stale from a lack of imagination and adherence to traditions that have lost their meaning. Since we now have the opportunity to plan our own versus other people’s weddings, the time has come to start new traditions that reflect the creative spirit of the gay community without rehashing the monotony of something old, new, borrowed and blue.

Living Arrangements A nother way to create a lasting memory of your wedding day is to (continued on page 26)

Dress Code Rented tuxedoes and one-time use gowns are examples of wedding traditions that are long past their prime. Establish a dress code for your wedding that is readily accessible to your guests and reflects the tone that you want to set for the event. If you want to have some fun with the dress code, outfit your wedding party in vintage apparel from your favorite era or encourage your guests to attend in clothing inspired

P HOTO BY BRADEN SUM M ERS

Jim Tibbs

by your ancestry. Keep it festive, fun and relaxed, so that the dress code doesn’t become a barrier to enjoyment.

PHOTO BY BRADEN SUM M ERS

Project Remodel

Braden Summers that opened my eyes to the opportunity of reinventing the design aesthetic of weddings. Admittedly, Mr. Summers staged his photographs using models in exotic locations, but that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve a similar effect with a little imagination and the beautiful scenery of San Francisco. Imagine projecting a large-scale photomontage of you and your intended as the backdrop for your ceremony or as a focal point at the reception. This is a beautiful way to record the story of your love with pictures and images that last a lifetime.

The Big Picture This article was inspired by the stunning photographs of same-sex couples taken by

What to Expect When You’re Inspecting

Foundation

Real Estate Taylor Sublett I attend as many of my clients’ home inspections as possible. One reason is that I care. The other reason is to learn the basic things to look for prior to writing an offer. Each inspection turns up something new, sometimes exciting and sometimes horrifying. Just recently, I was at a home inspection with a client for a property she was in contract to purchase. We were standing at the entrance to the crawlspace waiting for the verdict from the home inspector. It went something like this: “How does it look down there? Does the foundation look OK?” I called. From deep within the bowel of the 100-year-old house, the inspector replied, “Well, how does this look?” as he chucked a fist-sized chunk of foundation in our direction. It was slightly firmer than sushi rice that had been left in the refrigerator overnight. While the client got her deposit back, she still was out the inspection fees and time lost in her home search. There’s got to be a better way! The lesson to learn is that there are a few key things to check out when you’re open housing (inspecting) to make sure you don’t waste your time and inspection fees on a place that will ultimately be a soul-sucking, bank-draining, marriageending lemon. Just remember this mnemonic: FERP (Foundation, Electrical, Roof and Plumbing). 8

BAY TIMES MAY 29 , 2 0 1 4

Foundations are tires to never leave unkicked. Carry two tools with you when you go out open housing: a small screwdriver and a flashlight. Use the screwdriver to tap around different parts of the foundation. Look for loose, flakey or squishy concrete. This is a major red flag. If you can’t bolt to the foundation, it won’t be any good in an earthquake. You can also use the screwdriver to very lightly tap on the wood trim and framing around the house to see if you can detect areas of squishy wood. Use the flashlight to look deep into crawlspaces. Check for bolts, sheer panels and other seismic upgrades because they are very expensive to do yourself. Also, look to see that there isn’t a big stretch of brick foundation that you couldn’t see from the outside of the property. Look for signs of moisture in the subareas as well as this can be caused by poor drainage. Electrical Electricity is everyone’s favorite miracle that can also burn down your house. Fun! It’s also no fun when your electrical system is constantly shorting out because you are trying to dry your hair, microwave your coffee, and charge your Tesla at the same time. Here is a fast check that I always do: Find the electrical panel on the exterior of the house. Does it look like it was installed after 1985? Awesome! At least one of the previous owners realized that the glory days of the fuse were over. Check interior subpanels as well, because they are usually good signs that the electrical isn’t totally horrible. Roof Roofs or, as I like to call them, “House Crowns,” are not an end-of-the-world

expense to replace. However, a neglected roof could have been letting in moisture for some time causing all manner of ickiness. Step back away from the house, a little farther, almost there... got it! See how it looks like the roof is waving like a lake on a windy day? Yeah, that probably means that roof has two or more roofs underneath. Ironically, three roofs are not better than one. Plumbing Ask a pal to help you by turning on two or more faucets at the same time to see how that affects pressure. Remember the “dreaded toilet flush while showering” trick? That doesn’t happen with modern plumbing. Look at the pipes too. Galvanized pipes are not good. If there are galvanized pipes in the house you are considering, they are old. Very old. Like, Nixon/Kennedy old, at least. They will be all rusty inside and will need to be replaced sooner or later. Heating makes an honorable mention here. Is there a floor furnace? Is there a steam-punk inspired monster in the basement that looks like it’s from the set of a Buck Roger’s serial from 1939? That’s going to lead to another sizeable expense. These items on their own are not necessarily deal breakers. They just cost money to fix. You want to make sure that you have some idea of what you’re getting in to, so that you’re not in too far over your FERP. Happy hunting! Taylor Sublett, a life-long Bay Area resident who now resides in the East Bay, has been selling residential real estate since 2007. He was top producer of his office for 2013 and is a tough, but fair, negotiator who likes to work out solutions that make for win-win situations. Find out by contacting him at taylor.sublett@sothebysrealty. com or 510-301-9569.

DEFINED BY DESIGN, AN ATTENTION TO PERFECTION, GRACIOUS AND SPACIOUS.

TWO AND THREE BEDROOM UNITS AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY 8 TENTH STREET ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ CA 94103 RENTNEMA.COM / 415-881-5057 /

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Crescent Heights ® is a service mark used by a group of limited liability companies and partnerships. NEMA is being developed by Tenth and Market, LLC, which is a separate, single purpose entity that is solely responsible for its development, obligations and liabilities. Renderings, photographs and other information described are representational only. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of Equal Housing Opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

NCLR 2014 ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Round About — Photos by the “Bay Times” photography team Rink, Steven Underhill, Phyllis Costa The National Center for Lesbian Rights’ 2014 Anniversary Celebration was held on Saturday, May 17, with more than 1500 attending. The evening, which included a dinner at the Marriott Marquis Hotel and a party at City View at Metreon, is frequently referred to as the “hottest lesbian party of the year.” The event includes a meaningful program with reflection on the work of the organization. It is also a glamorous occasion to see and be seen having fun while dancing, watching highly skilled performers, trying out a variety of interactive games, and enjoying camaraderie plus fine food and beverages.

T RISH T UN N EY P HOTOGRAP HY

By all accounts, this year’s edition of NCLR’s gala was “the best ever,” featuring sellout crowds in both venues, commentary and comedy from perennial favorites Kate Kendell and Kate Clinton, and special featured guests and honorees. NCLR Board co-chairs Kelly McCown and Tamika Butler chaired the planning committee and worked closely with event planner Jennifer Bing, Bing & Associates. At the dinner, high school activist Jessica Urbina, who was involved in a controversy because of her tuxedo yearbook photograph, was accompanied on stage by her girlfriend Katie Emanuel. The couple received a rousing standing ovation from the audience.

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PHOTO BY JO-LYN N OTTO PH OTO B Y RI N K

PH OTO B Y PH YL LI S C O STA

TRI SH TUN NEY PHOTOGR AP HY

P HOTO BY P HYL L IS COSTA

PHOTO BY RI N K

TRI SH TUN NEY PHOTOGR AP HY

Also honored was University of Pennsylvania and Harvard professor Tobias Wolff for his role as counsel in many civil rights cases seeking equal treatment under the law for LGBT people.

PHOTO BY STEVEN UN DERHIL L

Receiving the Courage Award were activists Ryan Kendall and Samuel Brinton, survivors of so-called “reparative therapy,” who have been outspoken supporters of laws protecting young LGBT people.

PHOTO BY RIN K

Actress Meredith Baxter, who came out publicly in 2009 during an NBC Today Show interview, received the Visibility Award, which honors an individual who has helped to give voice and visibility to the LGBT community.

T R IS H TU NN E Y PH OTO G R APH Y

PHOTO BYJO- LYN N OTTO

TRI SH TUN N EY P HOTOGRA PHY

PHOTO BYJO- LYN N OTTO

PHOTO BY PHYL LI S COSTA

TRIS H TUN N EY PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO BY PHYL L IS COSTA

TRISH TUN N EY PHOTOGRAPHY

P HOTO BY P HY L L IS C OSTA

P HOTO BY J O- LY N N OTTO

NCLR 2014

a and Jo-Lynn Otto with Trish Tunney Photography for NCLR

DAY 1:

To get help for drug and alcohol addiction,

to start your day one now.

Outpatient Treatment in San Francisco, CA

(866) 494.7787

BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

Round About – Community Women’s Orchestra Concert Photos by Sandy Morris

The Community Women’s Orchestra’s Season 29 continued on Sunday, May 18, with the annual Spring Concert entitled Diverse Universe, held at the Lake Merritt United Methodist Church. Conducted by guest conductor Emily Ray, the program included Transit of Venus by Nancy Bloomer Deussen; Excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake; Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 in G Major; and Machine by Jennifer Higdon. Established in 1985 by Nan Washburn, CWO is a volunteer, all-female orchestra based in Oakland. For more information, visit communitywomensorchestra.org

BAY TIMES M AY 2 9 , 2 0 1 4

Beach Blanket Babylon 40th Anniversary

Photos courtesy of Beach Blanket Babylon

efore many of us were out and proud, or even born yet, Beach Blanket Babylon was showering gay energy over audiences like magical, uplifting fairy dust. Let’s face it. Much of the show is gayer than King Louis’ heart-shaped pink hair.

storms of all kinds over the years just as we have. Silver contracted AIDS and died of complications from the virus in 1995. His life force carries on through the show, however, thanks to his handpicked talented successor, Jo Schuman Silver.

Beach Blanket Babylon even premiered during Pride Month of 1974, first showing at Savoy Tivoli and then moving to Club Fugazi in 1975. SF Pride itself was just a baby then, so a show blatantly envisioned by a brilliant gay man— Steve Silver—contributed to the sheer joy of LGBT life in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

As of now, Beach Blanket Babylon’s impressive run includes well over 15,000 performances. The show has become a world-renowned recordbreaking success that has been seen by nearly six million people from around the globe. It is not just an internationally acclaimed musical revue. It’s a San Francisco iconic fixture.

Now celebrating its 40th anniversary, Beach Blanket Babylon has weathered challenging

Jewish Mother

As the city’s oldest and only fully LGBT owned and funded paper serving our community, the SF Bay Times happily salutes Beach Blanket Baby-

Prince Charles and Camilla

lon on its anniversary. We will join with city and civic leaders on Friday, June 6, at 12p.m. in a celebration of all things BBB. The event, which is open to the public, will feature Mayor Ed Lee, Chief of Protocol Charlotte Shultz, former Mayor Willie L. Brown Jr., Ann Getty, Dede Wilsey, San Francisco Symphony Music Director Michael Tilson Thomas, and the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. Other dignitaries are to be announced. We hope to see you at the event, but in the meantime, please enjoy our look back at memorable moments from the show’s past four decades. You can view the outrageously gigantic hats in person, as they are now on display at various locations throughout San Francisco.

Snow White

Miley Cyrus

BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

Beach Blanket Babylon 40th Anniversary

Sketch to Stage (sketches by Steve Silver)

“We are proud that Beach Blanket Babylon is an integral part of this City that we love so much. Steve thought the show would only run six weeks, but his celebrated genius and creative vision is as alive as the day the show opened in 1974. We are honored that San Francisco is celebrating with the ‘only in San Francisco’ event of the year on Friday, June 6, at San Francisco’s City Hall and that institutions across the Bay Area are showcasing our iconic hats from the past 40 years.” – Producer Jo Schuman Silver King Louis

40th Anniversary Self-Guided Tour of Hats on Exhibit Name of Hat

San Francisco Skyline Hat

Location

Date Exhibit Closes

Ascot Gavotte Hat California Shakespeare Theater Ascot Gavotte Hat Wilkes Bashford Banana Carmen Hat 1975 SFJAZZ Center Beach Blanket Babylon Macy’s Union Square Character Dolls New York City Hat Berkeley Repertory Theatre Pineapple Princess Hat American Conservatory Theater San Francisco Custom Macy’s Bayfair Skyline Hat San Francisco Custom Macy’s Concord Sun Valley Skyline Hat San Francisco Custom Macy’s Serramonte Skyline Hat San Francisco Custom Macy’s Stanford Skyline Hat San Francisco Custom Macy’s Stoneridge Skyline Hat San Francisco Custom Macy’s Union Square Skyline Hat

Friday, October 31

San Francisco Custom Skyline Hat San Francisco Custom Skyline Hat San Francisco Skyline Hat Silver Banana Hat and Tuxedo Mr. Peanut Silver San Francisco Skyline Hat Sundae Hat World Hat and Washington Hat

Macy’s Valley Fair

Friday, June 6

Macy’s the Village at Corte Madera The Fairmont San Francisco

Friday, June 6

The Westin St. Francis

Monday, June 9

Davies Symphony Hall

Wednesday, June 11

Ghirardelli Chocolate Marketplace, Ghirardelli Square De Young Museum

Wednesday, June 18

Monday, June 9 Wednesday, June 11 Friday, June 6 Monday, June 9 Monday, June 9 Friday, June 6 Friday, June 6 Friday, June 6 Friday, June 6 Friday, June 6

New York City Hat, 1982

Friday, June 6

Wednesday, June 18

Monday, June 9

Love Boat Hat

World Hat, 1986

Character Dolls

Silver Skyline Hat, 1999 Waitress Hat

Ascot Gavotte Hat, 1983 14

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Sundae Hat, 1978

Washington, DC, Hat, 1982

Beach Blanket Babylon 40th Anniversary

Cast Member Curt Branom Bringing King Louis XIV and dozens of other characters to the stage of Beach Blanket Babylon is talented performing artist Curt Branom. Originally from Alburqueque, NM, Curt went to work just after college as a CPA for a big eight accounting firm before pursuing his love of theatre. After his initial tenure at Beach Blanket Babylon, Curt performed in regional theaters, on Broadway in New York and on tour in Europe before returning to the Bay Area. Of his work at Beach Blanket, Curt has described it as organized chaos and said, “We don’t take anything too seriously and nothing is sacred.” About the character King Louis, Curt says, “He carries a torch for being who you are. He loves who he is.” A favorite memory of Curt’s is the one night only performance with Carol Channing as the featured guest. It was Steve Silver’s last time attending. “We all realized he was saying goodbye.”

Jo Schuman and Steve Silver

Beach Nuts - Legendary Moments King Louis in the Holiday Show

In 1999, Curt met opera composer Jake Heggie with whom he was married in 2008. They live in Nob Hill with their son Grayson.

Curt as Tim Lincecum

Curt as Kevin Jonas with Britney Spears

Jake and Curt

Steve Silver Through the Years

Armistead Maupin with Steve Silver, 1978

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Herb Caen and Steve Silver at the 20th Anniversary, 1994

Queen Elizabeth, Mary Martin, Tony Bennett and Steve Silver. 1983

Steve Silver with Mary Martin and Carol Channing 1988

Steve Silver (Christmas Tree) during the early years, 1974

Left, Check out the Beach Nuts Videos on YouTube, 3 - Annette Funicello, 1981 including a series presenting the 5 Legendary Moments: 4 - Scholarship for the Arts, 2002 1 - The Queen’s Smile, 1983 5 - The Largest Hat in the World, 1994 2 - VEGAS!, 1988 BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

What Makes Us Happy? Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011

2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-503-1375 525 Bellevue Avenue Oakland CA 94610 Phone: 510-504-9255 E-mail: editor@sfbaytimes.com www.sfbaytimes.com

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. The Bay Times is proud to be the only 100% LGBT funded and owned newspaper for the LGBT community in San Francisco. Dr. Betty L. Sullivan Jennifer L. Viegas Co-Publishers & Co-Editors

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CONTRIBUTORS 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, Kit Kennedy, David Campos, Leslie Katz, Karen Williams, Gary Virginia, 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. Sandy Morris

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BAY TIMES M AY 2 9 , 2 0 1 4

Tom Moon, MFT No question that we can ask is more important in helping us direct our lives than “What will make me happy?” But few of us ever seriously consider the question, because we assume that we already know the answer. We think it’s self-evident that getting what we want will make us happy. But is it really true that satisfying desire really delivers the goods? Oscar Wilde once said, “There are only two tragedies in life: one is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.” There’s been a mountain of research on the subject of happiness, involving more than a million subjects on five continents, and in recent years psychologists have reviewed and summarized the findings. The results challenge many conventional ideas.

Almost everyone says that money doesn’t buy happiness, for instance, but we don’t really believe it. We assume that we’d be a lot happier if we suddenly came into a fortune. The research on this question showed that abject poverty— meaning lack of the primary necessities of food, shelter, clothing, sanitation, and basic medical care—is misery. But it also showed that, once we have these basic necessities, further increases in affluence have little effect on our sense of well being. Studies of lottery winners showed that there was initial elation after winning, but soon the general level of happiness returned to about what it was before winning. And unexpected complications showed up when the winners quit their jobs and experienced lost relationships and lost sense of meaning and accomplishment. Some were even harassed by friends and relatives who expected financial assistance. The findings also showed that, contrary to what many believe, we don’t become unhappier, lonelier, or more depressed as we age. Most people’s level of happiness is surprisingly stable throughout their lives. And the idea that everyone goes through a stressful “mid-life crisis” appears to be mostly myth. What actually happens is that, as we age, our feelings stabilize and mellow. Highs become less high, but lows also become less low.

Contrary to the myth that the best looking people are the happiest, the research consistently found only a modest correlation between good looks and happiness, hardly enough to g ive scientif ic support to our culture’s intense obsession w it h our bodies. So what factors were correlated with happiness? The most important factor seemed to be intimate and enduring relationships with others, and a sense of belonging to a community. And yes, in general, married or partnered people were happier than single people. A second important factor was physical health. An avalanche of studies showed that regular aerobic exercise decreased anxiety and depression, and was correlated with a subjective sense of well being. An equally important finding was that happy people get adequate rest. Sleep deprivation, which is widespread in our culture, is associated with fatigue, diminished alertness, and gloomy moods. Also important to happiness are days of rest and regular time away from work and responsibility. A common belief is that we’d be happier if we didn’t have to work, but the research showed that too much time on our hands is one of the greatest causes of unhappiness. We need to work to be happy—but in order for the work to foster happiness, we have

to feel that it’s meaningful and that it creates value in the lives of others. By far, the most consistent f inding was that factors of age, health, sex, income level, race, education, marital status and life circumstances accounted for only 15 to 20% of the variance in subjective well being. It appears that it isn’t our life circumstances themselves, but how we react to them that determine how happy we are. People who are self-accepting, optimistic, warm, sociable, and open to new experience are happier regardless of their external circumstances. Those who have a sense of “self-efficacy”—the feeling that they have what is needed to achieve important goals—are happier and handle setbacks with greater resilience. Those who are interested in being helpful to others, and who can take sympathetic pleasure in the good fortune of others, tend to be happier people. There’s a widespread assumption that if we aren’t happy, we need to change something outside of ourselves. We need a better boyfriend, more money, a new job, etc. But the research suggests that what goes on between our ears—the feelings, attitudes and values that govern our lives—are far more important in determining our happiness. Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. For more information, please visit tommoon.net

Fortnight in Review By Ann Rostow Ninth Circuit Finally Schedules Nevada Arguments Another fortnight, another deluge of happy marriage equality news. As our last issue went to press came news that a federal judge in Idaho kicked the Spud State’s antigay marriage amendment to the curb in a decision that now heads to the Ninth Circuit. Oddly, the Ninth Circuit then agreed to fast track the case, and scheduled arguments for early September. Huh? This is the same appellate court that has been sitting on a marriage case out of Nevada for a couple of years. True, that case is not straightforward. First of all, we lost in lower court. Also, the Nevada case was tied to a similar marriage defeat out of Hawaii and had to be untangled once Hawaii legalized marriage by legislative vote. At the same time, the Ninth Circuit decided to shelve any action until the High Court ruled on the Prop 8 and Windsor cases. And finally, we all thought the judges were continuing to hold off until the Fantastic Gay Juror Case was over and done with. Once the Fantastic Gay Juror Case is nailed down, the Ninth Circuit will have to treat antigay discrimination as presumptively unconstitutional. Without going into the somewhat mysterious status of that case, let’s just point out that the state of Nevada has already abandoned its defense of marriage discrimination in anticipation of the new standards in the Ninth Circuit. And yet for months the court has refused to set a date for Nevada marriage arguments. But now they quickly decide to hit the accelerator on Idaho? The good news is that the Ninth Circuit has just announced that they will also hear arguments in the Nevada case in early September, but they have not set a date. Will they combine the two cases? Did Idaho force their hand? Have they been deliberately trying to avoid the subject of marriage equality? And what’s with the Fantastic Gay Juror Case? That litigation was decided in January with an historic gay rights decision. There was no appeal, but one or more Ninth Circuit judges asked the full court to consider reviewing the matter. We all hope the full court votes to let the ruling stand, but time has passed and no one knows when such a vote will take place. For the record, if the gay juror ruling stands, it’s not farfetched to say that we automatically win marriage equality throughout the western U.S., which is why I’m going on at length about this tedious situation.

ho case, the Ninth Circuit basically said that a stay was not legally appropriate, but that the Supreme Court obviously wants marriage to remain illegal until it can get its hands on the issue. That’s why no one is getting married in Boise at the moment. What’s up with that? I bring this up because one of our many marriage victories this month comes out of Oregon, where state authorities were not defending the state’s antigay amendment. Everyone was delighted in Beaverland. Marriages began at once. And there was no appeal. Yay! The one f ly in the ointment was a bizarre ongoing attempt by the National Organization for Marriage to intervene in the case. They were told “no” by the lower court judge, since they have no actual stake in the litigation. After the ruling, NOM went crying and whimpering over to the Ninth Circuit, asking the appellate court to put marriages on hold and let them fight the Oregon decision. They are unlikely to prevail, but nonetheless they are now running off to the Supreme Court, asking the justices to stop Oregon marriages while they plead their ridiculous arguments to the Ninth Circuit. Justice Kennedy is in charge of dealing with NOM’s motion. Usually, one justice handles these emergency requests. But in the Utah case, Justice Sotomayor called in the entire Court to make the determination. Will Kennedy ask his colleagues to help decide this motion? If he denies the motion on his own, will NOM appeal to the entire Court? Keep in mind that NOM’s desperate ploy has little or no legal validity. So if the High Court were to stop Oregon marriages, the signal sent would be disturbing in the extreme. That said, it does seem as if the High Court wants to preserve as much as possible of the so-called status quo until the marriage case or cases arrive on their docket. What will they do? We should know very quickly, perhaps by the time you read this column. I would be astonished if NOM succeeds here. For one thing, it’s very different from the situation in Utah. And second, I believe the High Court stayed the Utah ruling because it was the first of its kind and because it came from an extremely conservative state. Unfortunately, all the federal appellate courts have been cowed into submission by that preemptive strike. Tenth Circuit About to Decide?

Meanwhile, there’s another interesting question that keeps presenting itself as we continue to win marriage equality victories. Why is it that these decisions are stayed, or suspended, by appellate courts even though it appears likely that same-sex couples will eventually win? Usually, a decision is stayed when it would cause harm to the losing party, when the ultimate outcome could be a reversal, or when the ruling would cause some horrible disruption. (None of these criteria seem to have been met.)

And how about Pennsylvania? Here’s a case where the governor, Republican Tom Corbett, decided not to appeal a federal ruling striking marriage discrimination in the Cheese Steak State, even though he defended the antigay policies in court. Along with Oregon, Pennsylvania brings the number of marriage equality states up to 19, not counting all the states where our marriage rights have been put on hold pending appeal. It also illustrates the shift in the political balance. Corbett, like Chris Christie before him, recognized that leading a prolonged fight against marriage rights would alienate a majority of East Coast voters.

The obvious answer is because the Supreme Court weighed in on this issue on the Utah case, ordering marriages in the Bee State to halt during the appellate process. Still, why haven’t any other appellate courts tested this decision by refusing to stay a marriage ruling and forcing the High Court to reconsider? In the Ida-

So what are we watching for at this moment? In addition to the NOM decision by Justice Kennedy, I’m waiting for a decision by the Tenth Circuit on Utah and Oklahoma. Both cases were argued separately in early April to the same three-judge panel, a group that seemed like it might rule in our favor.

SCOTUS To Rule on Oregon Shortly

Professional Services Normally, a federal appellate court does not rule so quickly. But remember these cases are all “fast tracked,” whatever that actually means. Further, there were wild rumors a couple of days ago that the Tenth Circuit was about to release its verdict. The rumors came to naught, but where there’s smoke there’s fire, and something must have triggered all the excitement. Look, I’m delighted by all our lower court victories. But now I want a big one. I want a federal appellate court to write us a big fat juicy gay rights decision, and the Tenth Circuit is first in line to do so. Come on, guys! Let’s hear it. For those of you watching the schedule, the Fourth Circuit is next in line, having heard arguments in the Virginia case in early May. In early August, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit will review the Michigan marriage case, and then we have Idaho and Nevada coming up for arguments in the Ninth in September as mentioned earlier. We also have more cases heading to the Sixth Circuit. We have a case out of Texas that has been slow-tracked by the conservative Fifth Circuit (which is f ine by me). And I don’t know. I can’t really keep track of every single thing these days. This is enough. Plus, you have to believe that the High Court will take on marriage in its 2014/2015 session. Conventional wisdom says that the High Court waits for legal issues that percolate up the court system, leading to a split between the circuits. But the issue of marriage equality is not your run of the mill Court question. For one thing, the Court cannot continue to postpone marriage equality decisions unless it also agrees to review those decisions pronto. On the other hand, the Court cannot allow marriage equality to creep across the country, one appellate court at a time, over a period of years. Trust me. Next year will be the year, even for those of us who live in Texas. No More News; Let’s Drink So, I was looking for some GLBT stories that have nothing to do with marriage equality, and quite frankly, I have a hard time getting excited about the selection. Robert De Niro “revealed” that his father was gay. Hello? Not interested. And that’s the top story at the moment! The Census has stopped lumping all gay couples in the “partner” category and will now make a distinction between married gays and living together gays. Thanks, Census. There’s a gay guy who got elected prom queen. Again, nice but not earth shattering in this day and age. And I couldn’t bring myself to page through the ten best gay honeymoon hot spots, because really. With few exceptions, aren’t they the same hot spots that any couple would pick? No one’s going to Uganda for their honeymoon, so it’s not as if we need our own “safe” gay community list. We’ll go to Paris or Tahiti (given the funds) just like our straight neighbors. Actually, I guess you guys have your own special beaches picked out, right? Some island off the coast of Portugal. Thailand? Wherever. Have fun. I suppose you might want to check out the gay honeymoon list after all. So, what shall we talk about? I could go on a bit about the High Court’s recent ruling that upheld the right of a small town in New York to open council sessions with a Christian prayer. That bothered me, but I doubt (continued on page 26)

Read more @www.sfbaytimes.com and check us out on Twitter and Facebook. BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

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. Left, Bill Hirsh, AIDS Legal Referral Panel executive director, and Thompson Chambers were married at Bernal Hill Park in San Francisco. Bill’s son Jesse Tanenbaum, a Universal Life clergyman, officiated. Below, Bill and Thompson with family and friends.

Fred Sullivan and Jaime Botello, founders of the Gay Vanity Wedding Show, celebrated their marriage on Monday, May 19, in San Francisco.

Our First Collaboration! Mul and Russ’ Unforgettable Petaluma Wedding (Editor’s Note: We were delighted to hear that our two “Weddings” columnists joined forces: both in conducting a wedding ceremony together and in writing the below column about the event. Howard was the officiant, and made the wedding both legal and magnificent. Elizabeth gave the beautiful homily to the grooms and their guests, and offered the blessing. By all accounts, the grooms were delighted with the collaboration. Howard said, “Elizabeth and I were pretty joyous ourselves!” Here’s to love, friendship and collaboration. We celebrate them all.) There are many routes to get to the Petaluma Yacht Club. Yes, there really is a yacht club in Petaluma! There’s an inlet off San Pablo Bay that travels northwest. Not surprisingly, it’s called the Petaluma River, which then changes names and terminates as Lichau Creek. Why the geography lesson in a column about lifecycle events? Because a beautiful wedding took place there recently. It may take 45 minutes to an hour for most of us to drive to the Petaluma Yacht Club. For grooms Russ Coggeshall and Multono Hadisuryo, it took 31 years. Russ & Mul’s love story started oh so appropriately: aboard a cruise ship. Mul was the bar manager and Russ a passenger. Russ noticed the cute bartender, and was taken by his great smile and terrific personality. After that cruise, the two men met up in San Francisco. Russ played tour guide for Mul and his friends. They enjoyed each other’s company and began dating—31 years ago! For all these years, Russ has appreciated Mul’s warm and caring personality. Russ came to adore how close and supportive Mul is with family back in Indonesia. Mul’s youngest niece who lives in San Francisco became like a daughter to them. Russ stated that his partner helped him become more compassionate and empathetic. Mul admired how Russ presented himself. Mul learned to pay more attention to his appearance, becoming as well dressed as Russ. They both worked at the San Francisco Yacht Club. In that environment, the two men didn’t feel comfortable being ‘out,’ however, being 18

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To bring Russ and Mul’s 31-year partnership into legal matrimony, they wrote their own vows.

Weddings Reverend Elizabeth River and Howard Steiermann in close proximity allowed them to spend their work days together. As the decades wore on, time wasn’t kind to Russ, as he took ill. He could no longer work and become more and more dependent on Mul. Russ’ illness taught Mul how to overcome the enveloping sadness. Mul learned to become more patient and live in the present. He took on additional responsibilities, responsibilities they had shared for decades. Through all the difficulties, Mul has retained his positive attitude and Russ his quick wit. Both men were thrilled when samesex marriage became permanently legal in California. As both men desire to live each day of their lives to the fullest, they decided to get married. Mul was proud to get married, saying it helped him be out and open as part of a gay couple. Russ said that they have been engaged for 31 years and it was about time to finally get married! Mul’s response upon hearing that was, “Yes, we are perfect for one another.” They both feel that they are growing closer every day and appreciating not only each other, but also all that they have.

Mul wrote: “From today forward as I have each day in the past, I make my vows to you. This new beginning will brighten the journey of our life together. I will love you completely, we will love each other with our full selves. After 31 wonderful years, you are and always have been my hero, my best friend and a wonderful soul mate. I love you more and more each day. I am looking forward to sharing your happiness for many years to come, and I will be there in sickness and in health. I love you, I love you, and I will always love you, Russ.” Russ wrote: “My dearest Mul; you are the wind beneath my wings, my everlasting love and your compassion and empathy are endless. That I thrive when I am with you points to our great love. I live for your love. I am blessed to have you continually placed by my side…I love you, I love you, and I will always love you.” Rings were exchanged. “I do’s” were said. A blessing on the marriage was given that ended with “may everyone be lifted by this day, by these two beloved men, and by this joyous celebration.” Their nephew commented that Mul and Russ met one day before he was born! No matter what you may have been doing 31 years ago, whether you were already born or not, we hope that hearing Russ and Mul’s story through our eyes allows you to feel like you were with us. Everyone at the ceremony, including us, had tears of joy streaming down our faces as the sun was streaming down on the deck of the Petaluma Yacht Club and as Russ and Mul celebrated their wedding in front of family, friends and the universe. Rev. Elizabeth River is an ordained Interfaith Minister based in the North Bay. www.marincoastweddings.com Howa rd M . S t e i e r m a n n i s a n ordained Rit ual Facilitator ba sed in San Francisco. www.SFHoward.com

Getting to “I DO”: Sharing Stories to Change Hearts and Minds Over the course of the marriage equality movement, one key thing we’ve learned in state after state is that sharing our stories with others is critical. The single most powerful way to bring people to support civil marriage equality is by making the issue personal. Marriage Equality USA recently launched “Getting to ‘I DO’: Our Journeys to Marriage Equality,” a collaborative project aimed at collecting and sharing a wide range of multimedia-rich stories about relationships, family, marriage, advocacy, and equality. Ted shares, for example, the bittersweet story of how marriage equality came too late for him and Jack, his partner of more than 25 years. In 2009, Jack was diagnosed with cancer. Just days after a marriage equality lobby day in Albany that same year, Jack died. When the freedom to marry finally came to New York two years later, Ted—an ordained, former minister—noted his joy at having “the privilege of joining together the lives of two loving persons,” even though he and his own “beloved” were denied that opportunity.

Thom Watson, Marriage Equality USA an immigration officer asked her, after she explained, “I would be in danger as a member of a persecuted minority, if I were to be separated from my U.S. citizen partner of over a decade and deported back to Kazakhstan.” She continued, recalling the incident: “My wife was in the same room, but was not allowed to speak…I was asked to strike out her name and information as my spouse from my application for asylum.” Sveta concluded, “The Defense of Marriage Act rendered us legal strangers.” Such stories are as varied and unique as the LGBT community. Many of the “Getting to ‘I DO’” stories focus on the joy of marriage itself, or how the authors felt the day their states finally recognized the freedom to marry.

Every story is unique, and we never know which story will resonate with someone who is still unsure about marriage equality. By sharing your story today, you may be the change that helps someone finally get to “I do.” Browse our collection of “Getting to ‘I DO’” stories at cowbird.com/ marriageequalityusa/collection/ getting-to-i-do/, and then please share your own journey to “I DO” with us. Learn more at marriageequality.org/gettingtoido/ Thom Watson, a leader in the nationwide grassroots organization Marriage Equality USA, lives in Daly City with his husband, Jeff Tabaco.

PHOTO BY TR ISTAN CR ANE

PHOTO BY ELLEN SESKIN

Sveta shares her journey to receiving her marriage-based green card last year. She writes about a “surreal” interview with USCIS in 2010. “Why can’t you just go to Russia?”

Marriage Equality

We also have touching stories from allies, like Reenie, an interfaith minister who writes about how a burgeoning friendship with a lesbian seminary classmate led to advocating for “same sex couples in their quest to be together.” Roger, a former Marine, shared a deeply personal story about his journey to support full equality for same-sex couples, and his regret that it took him so long to do so. Roger writes, “We don’t need to look backward for a chance to stand up for principles. Life isn’t about always being right—I was wrong for a long time—but about learning from mistakes and making amends.”

Richmond Police Chief Chris Magnus and Terrance Cheung, chief of staff for Supervisor John Gioia, celebrated their marriage at the Berkeley Rose Garden. A recepiton followed at Salute’s waterfront restaurant in Richmond.

PHOTO COURTESY OF INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Oakland City Council member Rebecca Kaplan and Pamela Rosin have announced their engagement.

The Last Drag training expert Gloria Soliz celebrated a joint birthday with friends.

Actor Jim Nabors, beloved as an icon at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, sang “Back Home Again in Indiana” for the final time on Sunday, May 25. Nabors, who married this past year his longtime partner Stan Cadwallader, had recently announced that he would be retiring from the annual Indianapolis 500 following the 2014 event. He first sang the song at opening of the Indy 500 in 1972. BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

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#KateClinton

“My new book is out just in time for Gay Pride Month: Forcing the Summer: the Perils of Premature LGBT Triumphalism.”

Arts&Entertainment Be Sure to See Test and Burning Blue pany when he gets the opportunity to perform at one point in the film. Johnson explained that he used the world of dance to mirror the experiences of gay men at the time of the AIDS crisis.

Film Gary Kramer Two queer films opening June 6 in San Francisco deal with important issues for the gay community. Set in 1985 San Francisco, the lowbudget Test is a compelling drama about the onset of the AIDS crisis. Frankie (Scott Marlowe) is a dancer whose unease about the disease is palpable. His concerns are contrasted with those of his fellow dancer, Todd (the magnetic Matthew Risch), who has a more reckless attitude towards life and sex. In Frankie’s eyes, Todd seems more likely to get “it” because of his behavior, but Frankie goes to get tested after a series of sexual encounters scare him. In a recent phone interview, writer/ director Chris Mason Johnson discussed what prompted him to make Test. He explained, “AIDS films in general, if we can use that label, have been death-bed stories. That’s understandable; those stories needed to be told first for political and emotional reasons, and it’s understandable that sex is edited out of AIDS stories.” He continued, “But I have a young male dancer protagonist who wants to have sex. I wanted to put the sex back in the story, and make it tense and difficult because he is paranoid about illness. I also wanted to make it real, human, funny, and erotic. I didn’t want to sanitize the sexuality out of the story just because we’re dealing with the theme of HIV/ AIDS.” But Test is about tests other than just HIV status. Frankie is tested as an understudy in a dance com-

The dance sequences are beautifully done, and Johnson cast Scott Marlowe—a local dancer in San Francisco—in the lead role because he was a dancer who could act naturally in the part.

“The early AIDS epidemic chased a lot of young men back into the closet for a decade.” Another “test” in Test is a point raised in the f ilm’s end, where a character suggests AIDS enforces monogamy for gay couples—that it is “like a test.” Johnson develops this idea throughout the f ilm, as Frankie’s roommate, Tyler (Evan Boomer), embraces a heterosexual relationship despite an attraction to Frankie. “The early AIDS epidemic chased a lot of young men back into the closet for a decade,” Johnson acknowledged. “Tyler the roommate is an example of that trend or reaction, which is one fate for Frankie.” Considering the emotional state for gay men in the epidemic’s first decade further, he added, “There was this tension—assimilate or maintain your identity. I’m all in favor of gay marriage, but I want to point out that the assumption of normality and monogamy and being mainstream and just like everyone else is a great thing, but you also lose something, like you do with gentrification.” “I wanted to be provocative and also point out that in the beginning the move towards monogamy in the wake of the early AIDS epidemic was also fear-based and an ‘insurance’ plan. That’s not to say people didn’t value emotionally committed relationships, but that it was over determined.”

How audiences come to judge and appreciate the characters is part of what makes Test so absorbing. Burning Blue is another new movie worth your time. It’s an intense, engrossing drama about a military investigation that turns up a possible “gay cell” on a Navy Aircraft carrier. Daniel (Trent Ford) and his best friend William (Morgan Spector) are best buddies. When Matthew (Rob Mayes) enters their unit, a love triangle tinged with jealousy develops. (One of the men is straight.) Wr iter/d irector DM W ( Dav id) Greer, adapting his own play, has crafted a poignant story about masculinity and sexuality within the culture of the military. Burning Blue is really about wanting what others say you can’t have. Greer met with me for the San Francisco Bay Times and explained what prompted him to make Burning Blue, first as a play, and now as a film. “It was a need to exorcise very deep grief. It’s a personal story, but it’s a work of fiction, one very much inspired by my real life. I was in the military. I had been in love with a guy for years who was killed flying. I lost a lot of friends in aircraft accidents, but when this guy was killed, his death was the epiphany. It was the seed that was planted for me to tell the story. But the catalyst was my closest friend’s response to my telling him that I was in love with this other man.” He continued, “I had relationships with men prior to this, but not anything that was as deeply profound as this. It was a platonic relationship, but it was very special and intimate.” As viewers will see, the f ilm, whose story ends in 2001, is an emboldening cautionar y tale about Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.

terviews,” and the co-editor of “Directory of World Cinema: Argentina.” You can follow him on Twitter @garymkramer BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

Be Open to Exploring Unexpected Options ARIES (March 21 – April 19) Your readiness to rebel is particularly palpable these days. Choose your battles wisely, Aries. Hot-headed decisions could drastically derail you, but purposeful prioritization is sure to propel you far.

LEO (July 23 – August 22) Summon your sixth sense, Leo. Subconscious inklings are steering you along a path toward soulful satisfaction now. Be willing to stretch your perspective. Higher learning is on the horizon.

better.

Astrology Gypsy Love Academy Award-winning actress and spirited social activist Susan Sarandon has publicly attributed her remarkable success to one important fact: None of her best-laid life plans ever panned out. Ultimately, something even better would strike when least expected. Sarandon says that that “flexibility” has been, by far, her most beneficial asset. Cosmic cues convey a comparable message now. Be open to exploring unexpected options. Celebrate the element of surprise..

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) Have you fallen into a funk, Taurus? Planetary pressures encourage you to broaden your belief system now. You’ll soon discover why an updated outlook is precisely what the doctor ordered.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) Coalesce with kindred spirits in your community, Virgo. In the market for a new mantra? This gem jives perfectly with your current celestial circumstances: “Many hands make light work.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20) Serendipity sails by your side, Gemini. Unique opportunities pop up in unusual places now. What you desire is already en route. Reel it in by reading between the lines.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22) Be your own dream weaver, Libra. An abundance of substantial building blocks blesses your finances and boosts your career now. Bank on your bliss, and the best path will beckon you.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22) Feed your flair, Cancer. Cosmically, it’s time to cultivate your one-of-a-kindness. Ponder all the peculiarities you’ve probably been taking for granted, and proudly pronounce them as your own.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) Fiending for a fresh start? Astral awakenings are actively aiming to align body and soul now. Ditch the default settings, Scorpio. Your self-image is restless for a reboot.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) Bypass the shallow end and dive deeper, Sagittarius. The stars suggest you shed superficial distractions that stand in the way of your sweet center. It’s about to get real.

CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) Reconsider your commitments, Capricorn. Quirky catalysts at home could cause you to view colleagues and companions more clearly. Adjust the balance of give-and-take. Your greatest goals are now at stake. AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18) Honor the extensive scope of your skill set, Aquarius. You’re re-writing the rules in your professional playbook. Happiness hinges upon the ability to recognize your plethora of unparalleled talents. PISCES (February 19 – March 20) Your power of manifestation is peaking, Pisces. Vibrant visions yield meaningful results when you believe in what you conceive. Set sacred intentions now. The Universe will rise to the occasion..

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

If you were in “Beach Blanket Babylon,” which character would you be?

Alice Heimsoth

Frank Woo

Lawrence Helman

Raymond Hong

Jokie X Wilson

“Glinda the Good Witch”

“Mr. Peanut, because of my love of nuts”

“Jo, a producer who lives deep inside the Getty Mansion in a far off land”

“Glinda the Good Witch”

“A red heart skipping around”

Steven Underhill

PHOTOGRAPHY

415 370 7152

WEDDINGS, HEADSHOTS, PORTRAITS

stevenunderhill.com · stevenunderhillphotos@gmail.com 22

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Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb From a Fun Nun

Sister Dana sez, “June 3rd is Election Day. Queer the vote: get out and vote for the out candidates whenever possible!” H A RV EY MIL K STA MP U N VEILING was held at Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro Station on the of f icial H A RV EY MIL K DAY, May 22nd, to the excitement of the assembled crowd. Castro/Upper Market Community Benefit District Executive Director Andrea Aiello introduced Branton Burke, editor of California Stamp News, whose idea it was to have this special celebration in the Castro. He said within two and a half hours, every single Harvey Milk stamp of a 10,000 run had sold out at the local post office. Castro District Supervisor Scott Wiener spoke of the importance of the stamp to show queer visibility everywhere. Veteran activist Cleve Jones handed out post cards created by MILK movie author Dustin Lance Black to be addressed to the Sultan of Brunei demanding he resign as Beverly Hills Hotel CEO for supporting his country’s murdering of homosexuals. Jones said while this celebration would have pleased Milk, he would have been ashamed of the terrible disparity and inequality of income

and housing in the City. Journalist Wayne Friday commented how Milk would be thrilled to have a movie, a play, a book, and a stamp in his name. City Treasurer Jose Cisneros noted it would be an act of activism every time someone mailed a letter with Harvey’s face on the stamp. As a huge replica of the stamp was revealed, the crowd hooted, hollered, and blew their safety whistles in appreciation. The ceremony concluded with everyone singing “The Happy Birthday Song” to Harvey. THE NORMAL HEART premiered at the Castro Theatre on Harvey Milk Day, starring Mark Ruffalo, Matt Bomer, Julia Roberts, Jim Parsons, and A lfred Molina. Based on the Tony award—winning play by AIDS activist and author, Larry Kramer, the gut—wrenching, tear—jerking movie is brilliantly directed by Ryan Murphy (Glee) and co—produced by Dante Di Loreto (who spoke on stage, stressing the fight against AIDS is far from over). Frameline teamed up with HBO TV to screen the film that began running on HBO on May 25th. Frameline Acting Executive Director Frances Wallace welcomed everyone, reminding them of the upcoming June 19th—29th SF International LGBT Film Festival. HBO Development Director Tara Grace noted the absolute joy working with cast and crew on a project decades in the making. The film graphically, brutally, unf linchingly depicts the onset of the HIV—AIDS crisis in New York City in the early 1980s — and the politics, phobias, and grassroots activism that came with this then unknown plague. Do NOT miss this suref ire Emmy winner!

The mission of AIDS LEGAL REFERR A L PA NEL (A LRP) is to help people with HIV/AIDS maintain or improve their health by resolving their legal issues — providing free and low—cost legal services to people with HIV/AIDS in the Bay Area. ALRP celebrated their supporters at Sinbad’s on Pier 2. ALRP Executive Director Bill Hirsh was joined by Board members and Major Gifts Committee Co—Chairs Hailey Hibler and Matt Richards in honoring Karl Christiansen of Wells Fargo Law Department with the James C. Hormel Philanthropist Award, and the Eviction Defense Collaborative with the Community Partner Award, accepted by EDC Executive Director Tyler MacMillan. Over the last 33 years, ACADEMY OF FRIENDS has distributed over $8.6 million to more than 73 organizations serving people affected by HIV/AIDS. Funding for these agencies is supported primarily at their A nnual Academy Awards Night Gala. Board Chair Howard Edelman and Vice Chair Matthew Denckla distributed checks at a cocktail party at Westin St. Francis to Maitri, Pets Are Wonderful Support, Project Open Hand, LGBTQ Connection in Napa, Clinica Esperanza, and Shanti Project. More than 1,500 people from across the country attended the NATIONA L CENTER FOR L ESBI A N RIGHTS (NCLR) 37TH ANNIVERSA RY CELEBR ATION — emceed by comic Kate Clinton at the Marriot Marquis — to mark victories in the movement for LGBTQ equality and to honor those who have

become role models through their unfailing commitment to justice. Actor Meredith Baxter received the Visibility Award, which honors an individual who has helped to give voice and visibility to the LGBTQ community. Baxter gained fame on hit television shows like Family Ties, The Faculty, and Cold Case, and is a relentless and tireless advocate for queer equality. Survivors of so— called “conversion therapy,” Ryan Kendall and Sam Brinton, received the Courage Award, honoring individuals who have shown courage and perseverance in the face of great injustice, and whose bravery has become a model for all LGBTQ people. Kendall and Brinton shared their personal stories highlighting the terrible harms caused by these practices. They have testified to help California and New Jersey pass laws stopping mental health professionals from trying to change young people’s sexual orientation or gender expression. Many states have since introduced similar legislation, and both Kendall and Brinton continue to advocate for these groundbreaking protections for other young people. Executive Director Kate Kendell spoke of the many triumphs for civil rights achieved, and the fights for rights to come. CUMMING UP! BLOOM is the annual festive fundra iser for A &PI W EL L N ESS CENTER featuring hosted bar and a menagerie of restaurant sponsors to enjoy – all while delighting in a live performance by Monistat. Thursday, May 29th, 6:30—9:30pm, City View at Metreon, 135 Fourth Street, 4th Floor. apiwellness.org

The June 26th show will feature ASL Interpreted Performance. For details boxoffice@sfgmc.org

Season 36 Sponsors:

EYE ZEN & COUNTERPULSE present HOMO FILE as part of the National Queer Arts Festival, written and directed by Seth Eisen, at CounterPULSE, 1310 Mission Street, May 30—June 15, Fridays, Saturdays 8pm, Sundays 7pm. Homo File chronicles queer iconoclast Sam Steward — the sexiest professor on campus; seminal tattoo artist, author of pioneering homoerotic fiction; and sexual rebel. counterpulse.org Celebrate EVIE LEDER: THE OBJECTS on view at ASC Projects May 30th—June 29th, 3150 18th Street, #104 (entrance on Treat Avenue). ASC PROJECTS is pleased to present “The Objects,” featuring a new series of approximately 30 videos, along with a series of detail photographs and video stills by San Francisco—based filmmaker and video artist Evie Leder. The studies of (continued on page 26)

Broadway... Our Way!

presents

Featuring Tony Award winner Laura Benanti

NATIONAL HIV/AIDS LONG— TER M SURVIVOR’S AWARE NESS DAY is June 5th, presented by LetsKickASS.org, with HEART CIRCLE & TR EE PL ANTING in the National A IDS Memorial Grove, 10:30am—12:30pm. Register for free transportation at summittransport.eventbrite.com. Same day is AIDS SURVIVORS SUMMIT from 1—9pm at SF LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market Street (free but registration required: aidssurvivorssummit2014.eventbrite.com). Also from 1—6pm at The Community Center is THE EXPO with information tables staffed by local AIDS organizations. Join them for any part of the day or evening activities, where something is going on all day until 9pm. aidssurvivorssummit.org

June 25, 26, 27 8pm Nourse Theatre, San Francisco Tickets on Sale Now 415.392.4400 sfgmc.org Dazzle Sponsor: Don Julio Tequila Additional Support: Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, San Francisco Hotel Tax Fund Grants for the Arts, Bay Times, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the Bob Ross Foundation, Folsom Street Events

BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

See many more Calendar items @ www.sfbaytimes.com

compiled by Robert Fuggiti

LGBTQI Life in Cuba – SF LGBT Community Center. Free. 7 pm to 8:30 pm. (1800 Market St.) www.rainbowfund.org. Dr. Albeto Rogue gives a lecture on LGBTQI life in Cuba, HIV medical care and how the community is transforming Cuba. John Kiltinen Art Show – Mini Bar SF. Free. 7 pm to 11 pm. (837 Divisadero St.) Join artist John Kiltinen for the opening reception of his art exhibit, on display through July 29. Monster Show – The Edge SF. Free. 10 pm. (4149 18th St.) www. qbarsf.com/edge. Cookie Dough hosts an unpredictable cast for a wild show.

Friday Nights at de Young: The Gay Essay – de Young Museum. Free. 6 pm to 8 pm. (50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.) www. deyoung.famsf.org. Enjoy the festivities of Friday Nights with events celebrating San Francisco Pride and the special exhibition Anthony Friedkin:The Gay Essay. Walk Like A Man – The Costume Shop. $15-$30. 8 pm. (1117 Market St.) www.therhino. org. A series of spoken word monologues that spotlight issues in the African-American lesbian community. Through June 15. Animal Collective – 1015 Folsom. $15-$20. 10 pm(1015 Folsom St.) www.1015.com. Enjoy an evening of fun dance music with live DJ set by Animal Collective and Slow Magic.

Bowling Blues – Mission Bowling Club. $25. 3 pm. (3176 17th St.) www.odcdance.org. ODC Theatre

Azucar Con Ache will be at Freight and Salvage on June 6. proudly presents the Walking Distance Dance Festival with samplings of contemporary dance. Beach Blanket Babylon – Club Fugazi. $25. 7 pm. (678 Green St.) www.beachblanketbabylon.com. Steve Silver’s famous revue featuring hilarious satires on pop culture and political figures. Performances Tuesday through Sunday. Midnight Show – Divas. $10. 10 pm. (1081 Post St.) www.divassf. com. The premier transgender club in San Francisco, with live DJs and performances.

Heartbreak in Peanuts Exhibition – Charles M Shulz Museum. $10. 11 am to 5 pm. (2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa) www. schulzmuseum.org. This exhibition features the curator’s choice of 70 of the best punchlines in Peanuts. Sunday’s a Drag Brunch – The Starlight Room. 12 pm to 2:30 pm. (450 Powell St.) www.starlightroomsf.com. Donna Sachet hosts an elegant brunch with modern dance numbers, classic singing, and hilarious comedy. Jock – Lookout. $2. 3 pm to 9 pm. (3600 16th St.) www.lookoutsf. com. A weekly fundraising party for Bay Area LGBT sports groups.

Kelis – The Fillmore. $22. 7 pm. (1805 Geary St.) www.thefillmore. com. For the first time in 4 years, Grammy nominated artist Kelis goes on tour, with only one performance in the Bay area. Karaoke Mondays – Lookout. Free. 8 pm to 1 am. (2600 16th St.) www.lookoutsf.com. KJ Paul hosts a weekly karaoke night. LGBTQ Support Group – Petaluma Health Center. Free. 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. (1179 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma) www.phealthcenter.org. A positive support group for the LGBTQ community in Petaluma. Meetings happen every Monday.

Meow Mix – The Stud. Free. 9 pm. (399 9th St.) www.studsf.com. A weekly cabaret variety show with drink specials. Funny Tuesdays – Harvey’s. Free. 9 pm. (500 Castro St.) www. harveyssf.com. Ronn Vigh hosts an LGBT comedy night.

Mr. Irresistible – Alcazar Theatre. $25. 8 pm. (650 Geary St.) www.mrirresistiblemusical.com. A new sci-fi musical comedy thriller written by D’Arcy Drollinger. 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. Trivia with Miss Kitty – Wild Side West. Free. 7 pm (424 Cortland Ave.) www.wildsidewest. com. A weekly trivia with fun prices and free to play.

13th Annual SF DocFest – Roxie Theatre. Check prices. Check times. (3117 16th St.) www.roxie. com. SF DocFest is an annual festival devoted to documentary cinema. Since 2001, this two week-long event has brought the most weird

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Tribute to Nelson Mandela – San Francisco City Hall. Free. 12 pm. (1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl.) www.sfethnicdancefestival.org. Presented by Dancers’ Group and World Arts West, in partnership with San Francisco Grants for the Arts and San Francisco City Hall. Throwback Thursdays – Q Bar. Free. 9 pm to 2 am. (456 Castro St.) www.qbarsf.com. Playing dance and house music from the ‘80s and ‘90s with 2 for 1 drinks all night.

Azucar Con Ache – Freight and Salvage. Check prices. 8 pm. (2020 Addison St.) www.salvage.org. Azucar Con Ache is an exciting multicultural ensemble of women based in the San Francisco Bay Area who play salsa and Latin Jazz style music. Bad Ass Boots – High Street Station. $10. 9 pm to 12 am. (1303 High St., Alameda) www.highstreetsation.com. Join the Bad Ass Boots band for a night of dancing and fun. Crookers – 1015 Folsom. $15$20. 10 pm. (1015 Folsom St.) www.1015.com. Enjoy an energetic DJ set by Crookers as well as Whitenoize, Alex Sibley and more.

J. Althea – Take 5 Café. Free. 7:30 pm to 9 pm. (3130 Sacramento St., Berkeley) jalthea101@gmail.com. J. Althea will be at the piano playing the music of the Roaring 20’s and the Big Band era.

Off Shore – Southern Exposure. Free. 12 pm to 6 pm. (3030 20th St.) www.soex.org. A project focused on the waterways of San Francisco, featuring off-site excursions and in-gallery installations.

and wonderful aspects of real life to the big screen. Through June 19th.

Kelis will be at The Fillmore on June 2.

Music & Wine Benefit – SF LGBT Freedom Band. $60-$100. 2 pm to 5 pm. (3650 21st St.) www.

32nd Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival – SF Jazz Center. $40. 7 pm. (201 Franklin St.) www.sfjazz. org. Celebrate world-class jazz with 44 shows in 12 days.Through June 22. 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. San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus – Freight and Salvage. $22. 8 pm. (2020 Addison St.) www.thefreight.org. Enjoy a special pride performance by the world famous San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus.

The DJ duo known as Crookers will be at 1015 Folsom on June 6. sflgfb.org. A charity benefit to raise funds for the SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band. Lisa Lampanelli – The Warfield. $42. 9 pm. (982 Market St.) www. thewarfieldtheatre.com. The hilarious queen of comedy comes to San Francisco for a night of raunchy humor.

Gym Class – Hi Tops. Free. 10 pm. (2247 Market St.) www.hitopssf.com. Enjoy a night of fun at Castro’s only gay sports bar. Monster Show – The Edge SF. Free. 10 pm. (4149 18th St.) www.qbarsf. com/edge. Cookie Dough hosts an unpredictable cast for a wild show.

Lisa Lampanelli will be at The Warfield on June 7. Bear Coffee – Café Flore. Free. 6 pm to 8 pm. (2298 Market St.) www.cafeflore.com. A monthly meet-up and social for bears in the Castro.

37th Haight-Ashbury St. Fair – Haight Street. Free. 10 am. (Haight St. between Masonic and Stanyan) www.haightashburysteetfair.org. Celebrate the Annual Haight-Ashbury Street Festival with over 200 booths and two stages for live musical performances. Salsa Sundays – El Rio. $10. 3 pm to 8 pm. (3158 Mission St.) www.elriosf.com. Enjoy live music and dancing every second and fourth Sunday. Shangri-La – Endup. $20. 10 pm to 6 am. (401 6th St.) www.theendup.com. Keep the party going late in to the night at this monthly dance party.

Piano Bar 101 – Martuni’s. Free. 9 pm. (4 Valencia St.) www.dragatmartunis.com. Sing along to your favorite songs. Karaoke Mondays – Lookout. Free. 8 pm to 1 am. (2600 16th St.) www.lookoutsf.com. KJ Paul hosts a weekly karaoke night. Radical Vinyl – El Rio. Free. 8 pm. (3158 Mission St.) www.elriosf. com. A revolving cast of well known record collectors spin the most eclectic mix of vinyl you’ll find in San Francisco.

BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014

(KiAi WAY continued from page 3) to two things: Accept and respect, yourself and others.” If you’re a woman and like golf, don’t miss the upcoming Golf Fore

Good tour nament on June 13 at Chardonnay Golf Club in Napa. It’s a very fun fundraiser supporting the community-building work of the Horizons Foundation. Ev-

er yone can be a sponsor or contr ibute to t he cause, and t here’s still time to sign up. Contact Jenna Heat h at Hor izons: 415 -398 2333 ext. 115. Women: If you can

golf even a little, You Can Play on June 13!

need to open a thrift store and sell used goods; like Delancey Street, it may mean that some of us will need to sell Christmas trees.

corporations, foundations and individuals to assist our community to live healthy vibrant lives. Details of the agency’s ambitious plans will be highlighted on June 14 at our annual fundraising gala, Soulful Summer Soiree, an evening of fun, food

Jamie Leno Zimron is an LPGA Pro, Ai k i do 5t h D e g ree Bl a ck B elt , a n d

Corporate Speaker-Trainer. She’ll be at Chardonnay on June 13, and is happy to help women get ready with special pre-tourney golf lessons! Contact her at jamiesensei@thekiaiway.com

(AGING IN COMMUNITY continued from page 4) interested in food trucks or similar businesses. The recent recession hit small ethnic and LGBT agencies very hard and, for the sake of our constituents, we must not allow our agencies to be in that position ever again. Like the Girl

Scouts, it may mean that some of us will need to sell cookies; like Goodwill Industries, it may mean that others will need to promote and charge for job training and placement services; like the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, it may mean that some of us will

At BCA/Raf iki, we are committed for the long haul and are looking for innovative partnerships with

and community. Tickets are $50. For more information, call 415-615-9945 or visit our website at www.bcoa.org. Perry Lang is the Executive Director of the Black Coalition on AIDS and has been a resident of San Francisco for more than 30 years.

(FRIENDS OF NAOMI continued from page 4)

In 1981, she moved herself and her business to San Diego, where she still resides. A s if the prev iously mentioned achievements were not enough, she wrote a well-received screenplay/historical drama about t wo 18th centur y lesbian lovers, L ove Above the Reach of T ime: Two Stories of the Ladies of Llangollen.

Did I ment ion she is char ming? And ladies, she is single. Anna is truly a heroine of our community. Her involvement has made a difference for t housands of people. I n fact, November 9, 2013, was named A nna M. Cur ren Day in San Diego.

Anna is also an atheist who happens to be a Commander in the Order of St. John of Jer usa lem, which current ly supports an eye hospita l for Pa lest inians. In our L GBTQI world , she is perhaps best known for her work with the S er v icemember s L eg a l Defense Network (SLDF), which helped to overturn Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. I asked her why a non-military person would pick this cause of all the many compet ing and impor t ant LGBTQI causes. She ex pla ined that she passionately believes the route to full civil rights is through equal rights in the military. Once d i s c r i m i n at ion end s t her e, t he “dominoes will fall elsewhere.”

A n na cur rent ly is adapt i ng her work about the lesbian lovers into a screenplay for an LGBT theater company in San Diego. Its stage premier is planned for next fall. She looks for ward to fur t her ing her involvement in Organizing for Action, a non-prof it group dedicated to t ra in ing fut ure leaders and to advocacy of issues, such as gay rights and immigration. A n-

P HOTO C OURT ESY OF SL DF

the tomes Refresher Math, Clinical D rug Dosage Calculation, Math For Med s (now in it s 11t h pr i nt i ng), and Dimensional Analysis For Meds. Her Injecta-Pad, used for intramuscular injection practice, is now a standard. Before her invention, nurses often trained by giving injections to oranges!

Anna M. Curren was escorted on stage and congratulated by Stewart Bornhoft and Brian Humbles at the SLDF annual event.

other project of Anna’s is staying

Dr. Naomi Jay is a nurse practitioner

healthy. She plans to live for a very

in the department of Infectious Disease

long time.

at UCSF.

make contributions in your honor. This is a great way to invite participation by your guests in a thoughtful manner.

A wedding provides an opportunity to share the story of your love with friends and family through words, images and a beautiful setting. It’s not the tuxedos, gowns, flowers and food that people remember about a wedding; it is being part

of a joyous celebration that touches people’s hearts and creates a lasting memory.

ed season of frivolity and pleasurable indulgence. Starting with the French Open!

here. And I think I will have a Campari and soda right this minute to celebrate.

think I’ll have a touch of gin and or-

I know that “summer” goes from June 21 to September 20, but really it doesn’t. It’s June, July and August. It’s Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s

I actually got a message from Campari a month or so ago after I mentioned my favorite summer drink in this column. I was so touched. Indeed, I

Why don’t you join me? We’ll toast to

cisco City Hall (see pages 13—15). Free admission, but space is limited.

from Band ensembles, select California wines, and a gourmet luncheon. Proceeds support the SAN FRANCISCO LESBIAN/GAY FREEDOM BAND. Saturday, June 7th, 2-5pm, 3650 21st Street. musicandwine.bpt.me

Pornucopia: f lick pick of the week is Edge: Turn It Up, falconstudios.com. It’s edgy!

PHOTO BY BRADEN SUM M ERS

(PROJECT REMODEL continued from page 8)

Most same-sex couples get married later in life and don’t need wedding gifts to set up their household. Rather than specifying “No Gifts” on the invitation, create a food registry that allows your guests to contribute food and wine to the festivities, or designate a charity to which your guests can

PHOTO BY BRA DE N S UMME RS

Gift Registry PHOTO BY BRA DE N S UMME RS

use potted f lowers, plants and trees in lieu of cut f lowers. These living arrangements can be given to guests as favors, planted in your own yard or donated to a local park in honor of your wedding celebration. This concept will help you create a beautiful and dramatic setting while being sensitive to the environment as well.

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

(ROSTOW continued from page 17) that many of you want to rehash the separation of church and state. I could talk about the French Open, my favorite annual sports event and a harbinger of vacation, summer, hedonism, warmth, cool cocktails and oysters on the coast. You know, of

course, that everyone in France takes off the month of August. But in fact, they also sort of take off the months of June and July as well. Or at least they used to when I worked there in the 1980s. Now I’m married to a high school teacher, so once again, the whole summer beckons as an extend-

(SISTER DANA continued from page 23) men — a diverse group of perform- TY, “That’s Info-tainment,” Thursers and artists in the San Francisco day, June 5th, 6-8pm, at Nespresso , queer scene — are meant as col- 90 Grant Street. Enjoy complimenlaborative frames to allow the sub- tary wine, Ketel One cocktails, apjects’ humanness to slowly appear, petizers, and drinks by Nespresso. continuing the artists’ interest in Singer extraordinaire Jason Brock gender, power, identity, and the ten- performs. REAF’s 20th Anniversary sions inherent within the medium of fundraiser, “Help is on the Way” video. “The Objects” coincides with gala, happens August 24th at the Frameline, and is supported in part Palace of Fine Arts Theater. RSVP by the San Francisco Arts Commis- with your names by June 2nd to sion. Reception is Friday, May 30th, info@richmondermet.org or call 7—9pm. (415) 273-1620. You are cordially invited to THE R ICH MON D/E R M ET A I DS FOUNDATION’s HELP IS ON THE WAY 20 KICK—OFF PAR26

BAY TIMES M AY 2 9 , 2 0 1 4

The City of San Francisco is saluting 40 YEARS OF STEVE SILVER’S BEACH BLANKET BABYLON on Friday, June 6th, noon at San Fran-

MR. IRRESISTIBLE is a new SciFi Musical Comedy Thriller written by D’Arcy Drollinger and Christopher Winslow, June 4th- 8th, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8pm; Sunday 7pm. Alcazar Theatre, 650 Geary Street. Based on Aesop’s fable, The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing. Described as “The Terminator meets Ugly Betty.” mrirresistiblemusical.com or (415) 766-4588. Enjoy the fabulous views at the world famous Tom and Jerry Christmas Tree House, featuring live music

P E A R L S OV E R S H A NGH A I, The Cockettes’ amazeballs musical and comic mock—operetta (5th Anniversary Revival) extends through June 28 — due to heav y dema nd, sold— out houses, a nd stellar reviews. Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, 8pm at The Hypnodrome, 575 10th Street and Bryant. thrillpeddlers.com

ange juice with my Campari and soda to bump it up and give it some color. marriage equality. arostow@aol.com

S ister Dana sez, “Senator Patty Mur ray and Senator Mark Udall have introduced the Social Sec ur it y a n d Mar r i a ge E qualit y Act . We ha ve to speak out now to buil d support for this important legislation. T he S A ME Act will ensure sur vivor benef its to any legally married persons regardless of their state of residence or their marriage ceremony location. Tell Congress: a marriage is a marriage, and our Social Security system belongs to all of us!”

PH OTO B Y R I N K

A crowd of party-goers gathered early at California’s Great America for the 15th Anniversary Pride Night, produced by Pollo Del Mar, on Friday, May 23rd.

Academy of Friends officers Matthew Denckla and Howard Edelman enjoyed the reception with Dave Earl and Shanti’s Kaushik Roy at the AOF check ceremony at the historic St. Francis Hotel.

Jewelry designer Javier Perez and Robert Gray at San Francisco Ballet’s Nite OUT party.

P HOTO BY RI N K

Peter Stein, programmer; Desiree Buford, director of exhibition and programming; and Frances Wallace, acting executive director, led a Q&A session at the Castro Theatre during a press conference announcing Frameline38.

Daniel Flores, candidate for SF Superior Court Judge, campaigning at Harvey Milk Plaza at Castro and Market.

PHOTO BY RIN K

PHOTO BY BRADEN SUM M ERS

PHOTO BY AYAN A BALTRIP BAL AGAS

SF Small Business Commission president Steve Adams joined honoree Joe Gallagher of Joe’s Barbershop and friends Basil Green, Matt Ellinger and Joel Geraci at City Hall where Gallagher was honored at a ceremony during Small Business Week.

P HOTO BY RIN K

Upper Market/Castro Benefits District executive director Andrea Aiello, event coordinator Branton Burke and Tom Crites gathered at the Harvey Milk stamp unveiling at Harvey Milk Plaza.

PHOTO BY RIN K

Sinbad’s restaurant was the setting for the AIDS Legal Referral Panel’s Donor Appreciation event, where honoree Karl Christensen was congratulated by Matthew Richards and ALRP executive director Bill Hirsh.

P HOTO BY RIN K

SF Chronicle columnist Leah Garchik shared a hug with author Mark Abramson at Books Inc. Castro where Abramson presented his new non-fiction book For My Brothers.

P H OTO B Y ST E VE N UN DE R H I LL

PH OTO B Y R I N K

Round About – All Over Town

Paul McWilliams and Joseph Rocha enjoying the San Francisco Ballet’s Nite Out party.

PHOTO BY AYA NA BALTRI P BAL A GAS

Jessica Barker, assistant stage manager for the San Francisco Ballet, with Shawn Reeves

Lamont Thompson, newly arrived to San Francisco from LA, took in the Nite Out festivities.

Bryon Heinrich, ManDance Co. director with Talon Storm

PH OTO B Y AYAN A B ALT R I P B ALAG AS

Steven Salzman, SF Ballet; Myla Tutt, marketing manager, Sojern; and Donal Hebner, artist

Damian Smith, principal dancer with the San Francisco Ballet, co-hosted the Nite Out after party. He’s retiring from the company after an illustrious career of 19 years.

PH OTO B Y AYAN A B ALT R I P B ALAG AS

P H OTO B Y AYANA B ALT RI P B AL AG AS

PHOTO BY AYA NA BALTR I P BALA GAS

Leigh Witchel, Nite Out co-host and San Francisco Ballet principal dancer, Shannon Rugani, and Robert Rugani

PH OTO B Y AYAN A B ALT R I P B ALAG AS

PHOTO BY AYAN A BALTR IP BA LAGAS

Alberto Rangel, Fernando Gomez Benitez and Antonio Avalos of Clinica Esperanza celebrating at the Academy of Friends check event

Luke Willis, principal dancer, and Dr. Jan Zakin, Board of Directors San Francisco Ballet

BAY T IM ES M AY 29, 2014