April 7, 2016 Edition of the Bay Area Reporter by Bay Area Reporter

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Vol. 46 • No. 14 • April 7-13, 2016

Several Besties winners at the multiple Bestiewinning nightclub Oasis.

BESTIES The LGBT Best of the Bay

2016

Community 12 • Services & Shopping 16 • Weddings & Destinations 20 • Arts 34 Bars & Clubs 57 • Talents 57 • Sounds & Scenes 62 • Dining 70 • Sex 73 Georg Lester

From left to right, in front: Dylan Strokes (Best Male Porn Actor), Benjamin Bellayuto (Polyglamorous, Best Monthly Nightlife Event); Seated, second row, Michael Chu/DJ MC2 (Best DJ), Donna Sachet (Best MC/Host), Connie Champagne (Best Female Cabaret Performer), Sister Roma (Best LGBT Activist), and Terry McLaughlin as ‘Edina’ (Absolutely Fabulous; Best Live Nightclub Show). Second row standing: Andy Cross (Daddy; Best Non-Contest Leather Event), Katharine Holland (Best Realtor), Marga Gomez (Best Female Comic), Alex U. Inn (Best Drag King), Jason Brock (Best Male Cabaret Performer), Dr. Michael Perona (Best Dentist), Jasmine Johnson (El Rio; Best Neighborhood Bar), Blake Joergen, Ginger Snap and Elizabeth Wilkinson (Gay Softball; Best Sports League), Andrew Slade (Best Gogo Guy) Christian Heppinstal as ‘Patsy’ (also Ab Fab), Vincent Fuqua (also Gay Softball) and Mark O’Brien (Polyglamorous, Best Monthly Nightlife event).

BESTIES The 2016 LGBT Best of the Bay

Celebrate the Bay Area Reporter’s historic 45th Anniversary with us! 2016 Besties party at Oasis A FREE COMMUNITY CELEBRATION Thursday, April 7 from 6pm to 9pm. With guest-host Shawn Ryan The singer-actor-director stops into town before his Great American Music Hall show with Andrea Marcovicci on April 9.

PERFORMANCES BY: Connie Champagne – elegant Judy Garland tribute Kingdom! – drag king hip hop ensemble Veronica Klaus – popular local chanteuse Jason Brock – Powerhouse Vocalist-Actor Mark O’Brien – DJ, Polyglamourous, BAAAHS Tammy L. Hall – renowned piano accompanist Hosted bar drink specials 6pm-7pm • Oasis SF, 298 11th Street at Folsom

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B.A.R. marks 45 years, looks ahead by Seth Hemmelgarn

Vol. 46 • No. 14 • April 7-13, 2016

SF LGBT center redesign takes shape

orty-five years ago this month, the Bay Area Reporter started when Bob Ross – chef, Tavern Guild president, and B.A.R. culture insider – Cynthia Laird launched the paper with business partner Bay Area Reporter Paul Bentley. The first publisher Michael issue hit the streets on Yamashita April 2, 1971. Since then, the paper’s gone from Ross pasting up the pages by hand and delivering papers to local bars to a newspaper that has 120,000 readers online and in print every week. More changes are on the way in the next few months. Michael Yamashita, the current publisher, said, “Without going into too many details,” the B.A.R.’s redesigning the print edition and its website. It’s been six years since either has had its look updated. “This is the first time we’re trying to make a significant change in the appearance of the newspaper,” he said. Yamashita said there would be changes to the page size and layout in the print edition. He said since the last redesign “there have been innovations in printing that are more attractive and more cost-efficient. We’re taking the opportunity to make the change.” The switch will involve “some cost savings,” Yamashita said, “but more importantly, it will allow us to do more in print that we can’t do now.” Additionally, he said, printing presses are “more sophisticated now, and the current layout of the paper cannot be done on these new presses.” As for the website, it will be “completely redesigned, and hopefully improved,” Yamashita said. He couldn’t yet say what the new site would look like. “The designer has not sent in their final mockups.” The changes will be unveiled this summer after Pride.

Challenges

Like the LGBT community, the B.A.R. has seen many tests over the past five decades, from the AIDS epidemic to adjusting to how people communicate. Asked what it says that the B.A.R. is still publishing after all the trials the paper and the community have faced, Yamashita said, “I think foremost it speaks to the professionalism, dedication, and talent of the staff we’ve been fortunate to have. They are very talented people who’ve worked for the B.A.R. for innumerable years, and their conSee page 29 >>

by Matthew S. Bajko

The Mighty Real Staircase, left, will be removed as part of the San Francisco LGBT Community Center’s interior renovation project.

oon to be demolished inside San Francisco’s LGBT Community Center is a staircase named after the late gay disco diva Sylvester. Jody Cole, whose donation of $50,000 allowed her to christen the walkway the Mighty Real Staircase, always envisioned Sylvester

using it to make a grand entrance. “It was kind of a no brainer for me. Sylvester was such a community icon in the 1970s. He wasn’t transgender by any stretch of the imagination; his persona was feminine and androgynous,” said Cole, a founding board member of the center who leveraged her gift to raise an additional $95,000 from female donors for the building. See page 10 >>

Gay TV series will film in SF soon

Rick Gerharter

by Seth Hemmelgarn

fiction, “We’re going to do our best to have it be as truthful as possible. an Francisco will soon see filmI think we all have a very keen sense ing of the ABC-TV miniseries of responsibility to make sure that When We Rise, based in part on the overarching narrative is accurate the memoir of Harvey Milk confi– though I’m sure many people will dante Cleve Jones. The movie’s being point out many things that aren’t shot in Vancouver, Canada but the quite accurate.” work is set to move to San Francisco Manijeh Fata, a film coordinator April 28-May 8, and producers will Rick Gerharter with the city’s film commission, said be looking for volunteer extras. most of the filming would take place Cleve Jones The scenes reenacted in the city in the Castro, although scenes would are expected to include the 1978 Gay also be recreated at City Hall. As of Freedom Day parade, as the LGBT Pride parade Monday, filmmakers had not submitted permit was then known, as well as the 1979 White Night applications and weren’t available for comment. riots. The latter refers to the fiery battles between A website will be available with information police and residents that erupted after a jury about how people can get involved as extras, convicted Milk assassin Dan White only of man- Jones said. His understanding is that the proslaughter, rather than murder. duction will wrap up in June. Jones, who lives in the Castro, went on to “My best guess” is the film will air “in early become a well-known AIDS and labor activist, 2017, but that’s purely speculation,” he said. founding the AIDS quilt. His book is set to be Milk became the first out LGBT elected ofreleased on his 62nd birthday, October 11. ficial in California when he won a seat on the “This is not a documentary that we’re creatSan Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. ing here. This is an often-fictionalized dramatic White, a former supervisor, assassinated Milk set of stories, but I do hope it’s useful in informand Mayor George Moscone in City Hall in ing young people about their history,” Jones November 1978. said in a recent interview. “One of the great Dustin Lance Black, who won an Academy privileges of my life is that there are a lot of Award for his screenplay for the 2008 Milk biyoung people in my life I get to interact with,” opic, also wrote the screenplay for When We Rise. including college students. Jones aid he’s been spending as much time “It’s amazing to me how little they know of on the Vancouver set as he can. the 1970s in particular,” he added. “My input is constant. It’s not always solicJones said although the film isn’t pure nonited,” he said with a laugh.

{ FIRST OF THREE SECTIONS }

He added the film also involves the lives of other people, including Gilbert Baker, who created the rainbow flag; Cecilia Chung, a transgender woman who currently serves on the San Francisco Health Commission; Roma Guy, who also served on the Health Commission and was a co-founder of the Women’s Building in the city’s Mission district; and Ken Jones, a longtime gay city resident who was the first African-American chair of what was then known as the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade and Celebration Committee. “These stories are based on the stories of actual people who happen to be very dear friends and colleagues,” Cleve Jones said. “I think we’re all on pins and needles about it. It’s exciting.” Black “has been very careful to listen to all our concerns and all of our input, so it’s exciting,” he said. “Honestly, I’m just now wrapping my brain around how huge this is, given that it’s ABC. ... The potential audience for this is really astronomical. It’s very exciting that a network like ABC would feel this is an appropriate time to tell this kind of story.”

‘Useful’ timing

Jones said he’d tried to get Milk made since the late 1980s. “It was very frustrating to me that it took so long to get it done, but it turned out it happened at exactly the right time,” he said, as its release in 2008 coincided “with the election of Barack Obama and the final push for marriage equality. America was ready to see that, and I See page 22 >>

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4 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

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Happy 45th Anniversary to the Bay Area Reporter! I am delighted to join San Francisco’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community in congratulating the longest continuously-published LGBTtonewspaper I am delighted join San Francisco’s Lesbian,inGay, & Transgender the Bisexual United States.

Happy 45th Anniversary to the Bay Area Reporter!

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EQCA SF gala highlights new LGBT rights battles by Matthew S. Bajko

common theme of this year’s Equality California gala in San Francisco was that, nearly a year after winning marriage equality, the fight for LGBT rights is far from over. Numerous speakers at the event, held Saturday, April 2 at the Westin St. Francis hotel, noted there are new fronts to be waged on housing, youth issues, and protections for transgender people. “We know it is far too soon to let our guard down. Tonight we commit to fight for LGBT equality,” said Boe Hayward, a straight married father of three who is an EQCA board member and was one of the event co-chairs. Some of the issues EQCA is focused on this year include ending racism within the LGBT community, ensuring LGBT people have access to affordable health care, and fighting for protections and services for LGBT youth and seniors. “We have so much work to do here in California,” said EQCA Executive Director Rick Zbur. “It is time for California’s LGBT community to lead again ... in the next phase of the LGBT civil rights movement.” In his remarks in accepting the Humanitarian Award and State Farm Good Neighbor Award, gay former District 8 Supervisor Bevan Dufty impressed upon the LGBT community the need for it to be involved in solving the city’s homeless and housing crisis, issues which he worked on as Mayor Ed Lee’s former director of the office known as Housing Opportunity, Partnerships and Engagement, or HOPE for short. “Homelessness is a civil rights issue. Homelessness is a veterans’ issue. Homelessness is an LGBT issue. Homelessness is an immigrant rights issue,” said Dufty. He acknowledged that many of the systems in place to help house people often fail them, from the years-long wait to move into an affordable unit to policies that evict people for non-serious infractions. Many of the city’s single-roomoccupancy hotels are “salacious,” said Dufty, “and nowhere anyone

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479 Castro Street , San Francisco • (415) 431-5365 • www.cliffsvariety.com

Rick Gerharter

Bevan Dufty holds up his Humanitarian Award and State Farm Good Neighbor Award at Equality California’s Equality Awards gala.

would want to put their kids.” Even though he retired from his city job, Dufty declared that he is “not done” working on homeless issues. It is why he came out in support of gay District 9 Supervisor David Campos’ call for the city to declare a state of emergency on homelessness, a position at odds with Lee but that gained the support of a majority of supervisors Tuesday. “I love Equality California because they care about homelessness,” said Dufty. According to EQCA, 575 people attended the event, including lesbian state Senator Kathleen Galgiani (D-Stockton) and gay state Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Los Angeles), both of whom are running for re-election this year. Local out lawmakers in attendance included gay El Cerrito City Councilman Gabriel Quinto, lesbian Richmond City Councilwoman Jovanka Beckles, gay City College of San Francisco trustees Rafael Mandelman and Alex Randolph, and San Francisco Treasurer Jose Cisneros. Gay actor George Takei, whose role as Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu on Star Trek made him famous, received the Equality Advocate Award. His first remarks were his signature line, “Oh my,” then adding, “I am so touched.” He credited the crowd with making it possible for him to marry his husband, Brad Altman Takei, in

2008, noting, “It was the most joyous day of our lives.” He criticized opponents of LGBT rights for pushing anti-trans laws in various states, such as North Carolina and Mississippi, that restrict the restrooms and other public facilities transgender people can use. “The new battleground is the bathroom. I don’t think I read anything in the Bible about toilets,” noted Takei. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) made news at the dinner for endorsing a state bill that would ban taxpayerfunded travel to states with antiLGBT laws. (See story, page 7.) In accepting the Ally Leadership Award, Pelosi also said it was “time for the entire country to end conversion therapy” and repeated her calls for Congress to pass a sweeping LGBT rights law. “The time is right for a bigger vision on ending discrimination everywhere,” said Pelosi, who predicted, “It is inevitable we will get this done. It will take persistence and it will take a Democratic Congress and president to get it done.” EQCA founding board co-chair Kathy Levinson, who received the Geoff Kors Leadership Award, reminded the audience that there is a “fierce countermovement” underway to strip the LGBT community See page 7 >>

Project Open Hand expands services by Seth Hemmelgarn

...SINCE 1936

San Francisco-based nonprofit agency that provides meals to people living with AIDS and other diseases is expanding its eligibility for services. Project Open Hand, which helps about 9,000 people a year, is seeing an increase in funding, which will benefit many people. Mark Ryle, the nonprofit’s CEO, said in a recent interview at POH’s office at 730 Polk Street that the agency’s mission has been “to take care of the sickest first, then expand beyond that.” However, this fiscal year (April 1-March 31), POH is receiving more Ryan White HIV/AIDS program funding, which had been flat the last couple years, and it’s also set to receive more private funding. “We are now able to take care of people who are less sick,” Ryle said. Last year, the agency’s Ryan White contract for key programs was $1.3 million. It’s received an additional $100,000 in one-time funding. The agency’s budget is almost $11 million.

While POH is able Kevin Winge left the nonto expand services now, profit last year, Ryle and “There are no guarantees,” Simon Pitchford served as the increased funding will co-CEOs. Since the orgacontinue, Ryle said. nization’s made it through “We have to be careful the transition, Pitchford how we expand,” he said. left the agency last week. “We can’t bring people on Ryle’s salary is and take people off.” $165,000, the same as it Jane Philomen Cleland The expansion will was when there were two include providing more Project Open Hand CEOs. Pitchford’s salary food to people who’re CEO Mark Ryle was the same. “acutely ill,” and bringIn an email, POH ing in “clients who earlier would not board chair Carmela Krantz said, be eligible for our services,” such as “Our commitment is to leverage people who didn’t have symptoms, our history of effective, nutritional he said. interventions within the critically As clients have survived HIV/ ill HIV-positive community and to AIDS, they’ve become more suscepbring that knowledge and experitible to diseases like diabetes, cancer, ence to the significant growth we’re and congestive heart failure. seeing in diabetes, cancer, heart disAbout 60 percent of POH’s clients ease, and hepatitis C.” are in its senior lunch program, which William Dean, 68, a gay San Franis for people who are over 60. The rest cisco man who’s living with HIV are in the wellness program, which and diabetes, said, the nonprofit’s includes helping people who are sick “really been beneficial to me,” helpand need nutritious food to assist ing him control his glucose levels, with their medical treatment. Some among other assistance. of the wellness clients are also seniors. For more information, visit After former Executive Director http://www.openhand.org.t

1970s

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The

Polk Gulch loses gay

bar

ARTS

2000s

Bowie by the Bay

Scott Wells

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City to embrac e Pride lesbian, bise xual, and tran

sgender com

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e 1971

Vol. 43 • No. 26

• June 27-July

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3, 2013

by Seth Hemmel garn

Members of the Rick Gerharter Kaiser Perm anente contingent enjoyed the sun and music as they headed down Market Street at last year’s Pride parade.

t’s been a roug h year of the 43rd annu for organizers al San Francisco LGBT Pride para de and celebratio but Pride chief n, Earl enthusiastic abou Plante still sounds t this year’s them “Embrace, Enco e, urage, Empower .” Plante, CEO of LGBT Pride Cele the San Francisco bration Committe said that to him, e, the theme mean “embracing all s, aspe munity” and “dive cts of our comrsity at all level also invokes “emp s.” It owering the broa global LGBT mov der ement.” “San Francisco Pride is a thou leader ... it has been ght since its inception, Phyllis Lyon is Plante said. ” escorted down the Rotunda stairs in San Francisco This year’s Pride City Hall by Lieu tenant Governor festivities begin Gavin Newsom, Saturday with the left, and Mayor festival in Civic Ed Lee. Center, from noon to 6 p.m. Sund ay, celebration in Civic Center runs the Rick Gerharter from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m. at Market and by Matthew S. Beale streets and ends Bajko and Lisa at Keen streets. The Pride Market and Eighth the four liberal festival is free, justices of the n a stunning doub but a donation of $5 cour DOMA as unco le is sugg nstitutional beca t. It strikes preme Court Wed victory, the U.S. SuThere will be jubil ested. use it violates the guarantees nesday issued ation of equal prote decisions that in strike down both the streets as well, following ction and due process. a key provision Wednesday’s histo the Defense of of victories at the Marriage Act and ric The DOMA disse U.S. Supreme 8, Prop Calif ositio nt, ornia based largely on n ’s same-sex Court. ters of standing, matwas led by Chie The DOMA decis marriage ban. See page 22 f Justice John Roberts and joine >> ten by Justice Anth ion, a 5-4 split, was writd by the court’s ony Kennedy and conservatives. three other joined by

Court victorie s!

Activists to ho nor Manning at SF parade G

See page 22

by Cynthia Lair d

ay Army private Bradley Manning stripped of his was gran and is 3,000 mile d marshal status s away in at his court-ma rtial but supporter Maryland s will honor him in Sunday’s San Francisco LGB rade anyway. T Pride paThe Bradley Man ning Support contingent, whic Network h has marched in San Francisco Pride para des for the last two expected to be teeming with activ years, is ably a couple ists, probpoliticians, and supporters of the WikiLeaks whis released this week tle-blower. In a statement , Manning’s local ers said in essen supportce that they didn ’t care that the San Francisco Pride board refus ed to honor him – Manning will be their gran d marshal. Manning, 25, is accused of leaking some 700,000 classified government docu WikiLeaks, the ments to anticonfessed to some secrecy website. He has of the charges The Free Brad against him, but is being cour ley t-martialed on gent, shown here Manning continother charges. The most serio in last year’s para us, aiding the is expected to be de, enemy, could send him to priso larger on Sund n for life. ay. After initially nam ing Man ning marshal in late ond statement April, the San Fran as a grand that said Manning Pride Celebrati cisco LGBT considered for couldn’t be on Committee a community board reversed grand marshal itself two days later. slot because he is not local. Initially Pride boar dent Lisa Willi After a contentio d Presiams, it was a “mistake” in a statement, said that May 31, the Pride us community meeting to name Manning board declined marshal. Later, to Man recog a grand ning in any way the board came for the Pride celeb nize out with a secJoey Cain, a form ration. er Pride Committe president and a e board former parade grand marshal,

GLBT Historical Society gets new ED

Vol. 46 • No. 3 • Januar

1971

y 21-27, 2016

tion Foundation’s $1M dollna me na wi e us to Openho ss Ro b Bo r te af es offic

ender communities since n, bisexual, and transg

Serving the gay, lesbia

by Seth Hemmelgarn

he GLBT Historical Society, which collects materials archival and operates the gay history museum in the Castro, announced this week that it’s selected a new Rick Gerharter executive director. Terry Beswick, 56, Terry Beswick who since 2009 has been a principal leadClub, a sober space er at the Castro Countr y will take over at the that hosts 12-step groups, y. historical society in Februar and humbled to “I am deeply honored Beswick said in a have this opportunity,” from the historical January 19 news release by the imsociety. “I have been inspired people of and the portant contributions and I plan to the GLBT Historical Society ation’s organiz the work tirelessly to ensure Our diverse continued success and growth. stories, the with the communities are so rich s struggle our of archives and the artifacts essential that we and our triumphs. It’s t them and preserve these stories, interpre for future and today le make them accessib generations.” Castro resiBeswick, a gay, HIV-positive activist who was dent, is a longtime AIDS at the Bay Area also once an assistant editor Paul Boneberg, from over takes He r. Reporte was the longtime another AIDS activist who e director. Bonehistorical society executiv re last April amid berg announced his departu He had been criticalls for his resignation. donor relations. cized for his leadership and year marked its The historical society last History Mu30th anniversary. The GLBT fifth anniversary. seum is set to celebrate its al society’s board Brian Turner, the historic blast that Beswick co-chair, said in an email queer history and “is enthusiastic about era of growth and promises to bring a new al Society.” vision to the GLBT Historic much looking Turner added, “We are very Terry to strengthen forward to working with ing in San Francisour financial base (operat money!) and co means there’s never enough home (stand by move the archives to its new we’ll of course be for exciting details). And our organization working together to grow programs that serve and expand our amazing by collecting, preyou and society at large the GLBT past of serving and telling stories in resonant ways.” s news release, According to the society’ Beswick coents, among other achievem See page 10 >>

2010s

Director Seth Openhouse Executive Bob Ross Kilbourn, left, joined Thomas E. Foundation President program Horn and Openhouse in front director Michelle Alcedo ouse’s of the future site of Openh the named offices, which will be . Center Senior Bob Ross LGBT

by Matthew S. Bajko offices in penhouse will name its new senior housSan Francisco’s first LGBT Ross, the ing development after Bob r. Reporte Area Bay the founding publisher of and Openhouse The Bob Ross Foundation

Thursday, Januwill make the announcement naming rights, the ary 21. In securing the $1 million over five foundation has committed it build out its new years to the agency to help expand the services programmatic spaces and it offers to LGBT seniors. See page 9 >>

ustration Police share frcr imes ty over proper

Rick Gerharter

safe. He cessful” unless people are fallen said that police staffing had 2,000, to 1,700 from its high of With causing shortages on beats. told traincials of offi olice and local at least three new classes acadDistrict 8 residents that ees enrolled in the police ion be frustrat should their city they share emy every year, the say is by the in dealing with what they back to over 2,000 officers and an uptick in property crimes end of 2017, he said. the in have city ments the in encamp homeless Violent crimes middistrict. decreased by half since the held o Police At a community meeting 2000s, said San Francisc Church gs have at Noe Valley’s St. James Chief Greg Suhr. Shootin d under concede to y cials offi annuall 14, 400 from January gone shortage that an ongoing staffing 200, he said. abilevby police has reduced their Suhr urged residents to keep recent imity to patrol and that the erything out of their car, most Rick Gerharter ed their openwet weather has hamper portantly their garage door encamppattern typical a that 8 said t Suhr efforts to remove large Distric ers. a at s. into Chief Greg Suhr speaks ments that are blocking sidewalk San Francisco Police would be criminals breaking Sug. door The meeting, convened by community safety meetin a car and using the garage over home. pervisor Scott Wiener, drew opener to gain entry into the Audit a numpolice of Supervisors Government 100 residents, including primarily served by three Board is 8 the District The Ingleside. ber of recent crime victims. and Oversight Committee. stations: Mission, Park, and for its inability to was Mayor Ed Daniel Perea noted residents criticized the city Opening last week’s panel Mission Station Captain ls and expressed their his recently acquired in package thefts catch and prosecute crimina Lee, who demonstrated that there had been an increase r, one the city’s approaches to s during the 2015 holiremote control key fob protecto to a frustrations that none of break-in gadget, . mailbox and working be seemed to s that are said some people have dealing with homelessness of the new technology solution day period. Perea said that ers to copy candidate for state the Wiener, who is gay and a criminals from using amplifi crimes to the increase in such prevent ed much” attribut “too is that there Senate, has said repeatedly See page 9 >> a signal and steal a car. arly auto break-ins. Park neighborcrime in District 8, particul Lee, who lives in the Glen a public safety hearcity cannot be sucThe supervisor will hold hood of District 8, said, “the before a.m. 10:30 at ing Thursday (Januar y 21)

by Sari Staver

The Bob Ross Foundation proudly congratulates

Rick Gerharter

To those who say that even though is gay, what he Manning did was not speci fically gay-related, Cain has a different persp ective. “The reason I nom inated Bradley was because the Manning LGBT commun ity needed to know about him and embrace him, ” Cain said. “Bradley Manning is a gay man who did See page 6 >>

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was the person who nominate d Manning for the honor. He has been by turn s, angr y, hurt, and disappointed in how the cont played out, and roversy has the lack of com and transparen munication cy from Pride offic ials. “There’s a majo r leade rship problem Pride that need at s to be addressed ,” Cain a recent interview with the Bay Area said in Reporter.

6 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Volume 46, Number 14 April 7-13, 2016 www.ebar.com PUBLISHER Michael M. Yamashita Thomas E. Horn, Publisher Emeritus (2013) Publisher (2003 – 2013) Bob Ross, Founder (1971 – 2003) NEWS EDITOR Cynthia Laird ARTS EDITOR Roberto Friedman BARTAB EDITOR & EVENTS LISTINGS EDITOR Jim Provenzano ASSISTANT EDITORS Matthew S. Bajko • Seth Hemmelgarn CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ray Aguilera • Tavo Amador • Race Bannon Erin Blackwell • Roger Brigham Brian Bromberger • Victoria A. Brownworth Brent Calderwood • Philip Campbell Heather Cassell • Belo Cipriani Richard Dodds • Michael Flanagan Jim Gladstone • David Guarino Liz Highleyman • Brandon Judell • John F. Karr Lisa Keen • Matthew Kennedy • Joshua Klipp David Lamble • Max Leger Michael McDonagh • David-Elijah Nahmod Paul Parish • Sean Piverger • Lois Pearlman Tim Pfaff • Jim Piechota • Bob Roehr Donna Sachet • Adam Sandel • Khaled Sayed Jason Serinus • Gregg Shapiro Gwendolyn Smith • Sari Staver • Jim Stewart Sean Timberlake • Andre Torrez • Ronn Vigh Ed Walsh • Cornelius Washington Sura Wood ART DIRECTION Jay Cribas PRODUCTION/DESIGN Max Leger PHOTOGRAPHERS Jane Philomen Cleland • FBFE Rick Gerharter • Gareth Gooch Lydia Gonzales • Jose Guzman-Colon Rudy K. Lawidjaja • Georg Lester • Dan Lloyd Jo-Lynn Otto • Rich Stadtmiller Steven Underhil • Dallis Willard • Bill Wilson ILLUSTRATORS & CARTOONISTS Paul Berge • Christine Smith ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION Colleen Small VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVERTISING Scott Wazlowski – 415.829.8937 NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media – 212.242.6863

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<< Open Forum

t Another week, another anti-gay state

ississippi ranks as the poorest state in the country, and it’s number one for anti-LGBT discrimination after Governor Phil Bryant this week signed what advocacy groups are calling the most extreme “religious liberty” bill in the country. The law, HB 1523, allows private businesses, individuals, and medical and social service agencies to discriminate against anyone in the state based on religious beliefs about marriage, premarital sex, and conformity with gender identity stereotypes. In fact, it makes North Carolina’s anti-trans bathroom law, signed recently by Governor Pat McCrory, look tame in comparison. “Many thought that after the massive blowback from the public, business leaders, and professional sports organizations that top officials in Indiana, Georgia, Arizona, and North Carolina all experienced after they passed similarly discriminatory anti-LGBT bills that Mississippi would have chosen to think twice,” Jennifer Pizer, senior legal counsel for Lambda Defense and Education Fund said in a statement. Alas, Mississippi lawmakers and the governor ignored voices of reason, Pizer added, and have exposed people, many of whom are already vulnerable, to yet more discrimination, abuse, and violence. These governors, McCrory and Bryant, must take responsibility for the consequences of their actions. The federal government is already examining the possibility of pulling education funds from North Carolina; now it will need to look into doing that in Mississippi, too. Meanwhile, this week, Dan Schulman, the president and CEO of PayPal, announced that he was canceling a planned operations center in the Tar Heel State, and taking its 400 jobs elsewhere. Here in California, we have a chance to send a strong message to these states that try to deny rights to their LGBT residents. Governor Jerry Brown should immediately institute a travel ban for state em-

ployees to North Carolina and Mississippi. And if legislators should pass it, the governor should sign gay Assemblyman Evan Low’s (D-Campbell) AB 1887, which would do the same thing: prohibit state-funded travel to any state with a law in effect that sanctions or requires discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. And by the way, Mr. Schulman, the Golden State would be happy to take that PayPal center. We have several regions, notably the Central Valley, that could use those jobs if you’re looking beyond the Bay Area where PayPal is headquartered. Brown should join the governors of New York, Vermont, and Washington state in refusing to give these hate states any business whatsoever. And that list could grow to include more states, as we reported last week. There are pending anti-LGBT bills in Illinois, Indiana (again), Missouri, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. As the LGBT community continues to fight bigotry, we should remember that ultimately, justice must prevail. Legal groups have already filed a federal lawsuit against the North Carolina law, and we can expect similar action in Mississippi and other states if they pass discriminatory bills. In fact, the only thing these states can count on is

a loss of business. Corporations and tourists are quick to learn where they are welcome and where they are not. But the larger point is that there are many LGBT people residing in these states who can’t pick up and move. For them, it will be a long slog fraught with peril. They aren’t served by lawmakers without an enlightened outlook, who fail to realize that one’s personal religious beliefs are not in danger by the legalization of same-sex marriage. Unfortunately, the politicians caved to the noisy minority while failing to take into account the greater good.

School stands up for kids

This is the time of year when we hear about high schools that remove queer students from the yearbook or prevent them from going to the prom with the date of their choice. Now, there’s another wrinkle that has cropped up in the East Bay town of San Ramon, where some parents objected to student-led curriculum on LGBTQ issues for Acceptance Week at Windemere Ranch Middle School. But rather than give in to the naysayers, who some LGBT leaders suspect might be aligned with the anti-gay Pacific Justice Institute, the school’s leadership has stood by the lesson plans that will be taught starting next week. It’s an example of cooler heads prevailing and the growing realization that kids are coming out earlier than ever, or becoming straight allies when their friends come out. Either way, the parents, who objected because they feel such lessons should occur at home, miss the point – it’s on school campuses where much of the name-calling and bullying takes place, and that’s where students should be learning about acceptance. We hope that next week’s inclusive lesson plans are instructive and that kids can learn to express themselves other than by repeating the tired “That’s so gay,” which is what some parents reported occurring. Having curriculum developed by students is a win-win for all the students, and we’re glad that in this more conservative part of the Bay Area, educators are standing up for everyone.t

Glad the B.A.R. is here to cover the news by Bill Ambrunn

the LGBTQ community met the challenge of HIV/AIDS and chandon’t know where we would be neled anger and fear into political without the Bay Area Reporter power. I saw the consolidation of and the LGBTQ press. that power as queer politician after It’s thankless work. The staff toil queer politician got elected in San long hours for little pay. They ask Francisco. More importantly, I saw the tough questions. Sometimes the queer elected officials begin to they get no respect. But they are bring justice and reforms to public James LaCroce, Ph.D. there for all of us. They are the policy that not only changed San people who bring us the news in Francisco but also helped change our LGBTQ community. They are the nation. And through it all, it the LGBTQ press. They are the was the B.A.R. and the LGBTQ B.A.R. And they have helped make press that covered the issues, asked this world a safer and fairer place the questions, remained persistent Bill Ambrunn, with for all of us for 45 years. and informed a new generation of his dog, Hudson. When I graduated from law queers in San Francisco. school and settled in San FranAs a legislative aide for a lescisco in 1987, HIV/AIDS was an emergency bian Latina on the Board of Supervisors in the epidemic and queer people had no rights. The 1990s, I was privileged to work with many “gay mecca,” San Francisco, and in fact the entalented members of the LGBTQ tire state of California, had managed to elect less press, including two stellar reprethan a dozen openly LGBT officials, including sentatives in Dennis Conkin and the late San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk Cynthia Laird, intrepid queer and his handpicked successor, Harry Brit. We reporters who were smart, tehad very little political power. The “mainstream nacious, mature, professional, community” didn’t take us seriously. When we balanced, fair, and TOUGH! were mentioned in the mainstream press, like Conkin overcame a tragic the San Francisco Chronicle or the San Franchildhood, typical for many cisco Examiner, we were still talked about as queer children of his era, but a “them” and we were oddities, to be sure. life that would have broken most Naturally in 1987 I did what people did back people – instead he became one of the truly then when you wanted to know something fine reporters of his era: principled, resourcenew – I picked up a copy of the newspaper ful, and so very smart. Laird was one of the to see what was going on. What I found was best, most diligent reporters I have ever met a vibrant LGBT press in San Francisco and in and went on to become the extremely talented particular I found the B.A.R. Nowhere else news editor of the B.A.R. where she continues could I get information on LGBT news, polito guide the paper. More recently, I have had tics, health, crime, athletics, recreation, comthe honor of working with Matthew S. Bajko mentary, literature and film, and just about as he steadfastly covered the many issues imany other queer topic I could imagine. These pacting LGBTQ seniors, an issue very dear to stories could not be found in the mainstream my heart. press anywhere in the country. Does it matter that we have the B.A.R. and As I became involved in San Francisco’s poa queer press? It sure does matter. I have perlitical world in the late 1980s and early 1990s, sonally seen the commitment of the B.A.R. as I learned more about the power and reach of it continues to cover myriad issues that affect the B.A.R. and the LGBTQ press. I watched as our community, both directly and indirectly.

What mainstream news organization regularly and seriously covers LGBTQ issues? Here’s the quick answer – NONE! The mainstream press covers our issues sparingly, and that is being charitable. For the most part, the LGBTQ community is largely invisible, even in 2016. I will leave you with one important example. From 2010 to 2014, I helped lead a groundbreaking effort to improve services in San Francisco for LGBTQ seniors. During those four years, I worked closely with the B.A.R.’s staff to highlight our concerns, educate the public about what needed to be done, create political momentum, raise needed private funds for a research project, reach out to seniors and other community stakeholders for feedback, and disseminate the report and recommendations produced by the effort and ultimately persuade the city government to act (and they did). This was all accomplished with the assistance of the B.A.R.’s reporting and editorializing. Although we pleaded with the mainstream media for press coverage, we got almost none. The B.A.R. on the other hand has published literally dozens of articles on LGBT seniors, the efforts of the LGBT Aging Policy Task Force and the recommendations in our final report. Even since the task force disbanded, the B.A.R. has continued to follow up on the recommendations and pressed elected officials for response. Quite simply, if it weren’t for the B.A.R., we would not have been able to accomplish what we did, and certainly most of the LGBTQ community would never have learned about it in the first place. So I really don’t know where we would be without the B.A.R., and I am glad we don’t know. As long as there is an LGBTQ community, there must be a B.A.R. to cover it.t Bill Ambrunn is an attorney and nonprofit fundraiser who works for the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California.

Politics>>

t Pelosi backs CA banning travel to states with anti-LGBT laws by Matthew S. Bajko

s it makes its way through the California Legislature, a bill that would ban taxpayer-funded travel to states that adopt anti-LGBT laws has the endorsement of House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (DSan Francisco). Speaking at the annual Equality California gala in San Francisco Saturday night, where she was awarded the statewide LGBT advocacy group’s Ally Leadership Award, Pelosi called on the crowd to “commit” to supporting Assembly Bill 1887. It was a rare instance of Pelosi taking a public stand on a proposed statelevel law. The legislation, authored by gay Assemblyman Evan Low (DCampbell), would prohibit statefunded travel to any state with a law in effect that sanctions or requires discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The push to see the bill become law comes as a number of local governments and state governors across the country have enacted their own bans on taxpayer funded travel to North Carolina. The fallout continued this week, with PayPal announcing on Tuesday it would move its planned $3.6 million global operations center, and the 400 jobs and estimated $20 million in payroll taxes it would provide, to another state. The boycotts are due to lawmakers in the Tar Heel State enacting a law that forces transgender students to use facilities based on their gender at birth and overturned the right of cities and other local jurisdictions from adopting laws banning LGBT discrimination. It was hastily adopted last month after Charlotte passed a citywide ordinance banning LGBT discrimination. “I was there in Charlotte the day after the governor signed that hateful law,” said Pelosi, adding that the city’s residents and mayor were “very upset,” as was LaWana Mayfield, the city’s first out council member, whom Pelosi said she was “happy to meet.” She criticized North Carolina’s state lawmakers for spending “thousands of dollars on that special session” to adopt the anti-LGBT law. And she predicted, “Justice and freedom will not be denied. Hateful, anti-LGBT laws have no place in America.” The San Francisco-based National Center for Lesbian Rights launched a campaign last week it is calling #WeAreAllNC in which it is asking people to contact their local and state elected leaders and urge them to all enact travel bans to North Carolina. “In North Carolina and other states, extreme anti-LGBT legislatures are mounting unprecedented attacks on LGBT people. We will not sit idly by while our communities are under attack,” wrote NCLR Executive Director Kate Kendell in a March 31 email to supporters of the nonprofit. “#WeAreAllNC recognizes that no matter where you live, you can press your local officials or

EQCA

From page 4

of the rights it has won. And more work, she said, is needed to win employment protections, prevent suicide among LGBT people, and assist immigrants and those incarcerated.

Rick Gerharter

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks at Saturday’s Equality California gala.

governor to stand on the just side of history ... Make your voice heard today and urge your elected officials to take a stand against this dangerous scapegoating of LGBT people.” Mississippi is now facing similar travel bans due to its governor signing into law on Tuesday a bill that allows individuals and groups to cite their religious beliefs for discriminating against LGBT people. As the Bay Area Reporter noted in an article last week, Santa Clara County had already banned taxpayer-funded travel to the Magnolia State in March and has banned its employees from traveling to North Carolina since last June. (Arkansas and Tennessee are also on the county’s no-go list.) Wednesday morning San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee announced he had banned publicly funded travel by city employees to Mississippi “that is not absolutely essential to public health and safety.” Those states and more could land on a no-go list for state employees, as well as the faculty and staff at the University of California and California State University systems, if Low’s bill becomes law. Tuesday morning the Assembly Judiciary Committee voted 8-2 to send AB 1887, which EQCA and NCLR are both co-sponsoring, to the Assembly Committee on Accountability and Administrative Review, where it will be heard April 13. Assemblymen James Gallagher (R-Plumas Lake) and Donald P. Wagner (R-Irvine), vice chair of the judiciary committee, voted against the bill. Gallagher said he opposed the bill because it would financially harm cities and businesses in the banned states that do support LGBT rights. He also questioned what the criteria would be to classify a law as anti-LGBT. “I think we all agree we don’t want to allow discrimination against people. We all agree we want to protect religious liberty and freedom of association. I think we are seeing there are gray areas out there where we are having to reconcile those two issues,” he said. “Some states will draw lines on the gray area in a way we agree and disagree.” Gallagher asked Low why punish a whole state when there are likely people there who may agree with “All of us tonight are privileged to be in a room with hundreds of supporters. That privilege comes with tremendous duty,” said Levinson, a management consultant who was a former COO at E-Trade. “Let’s contribute to lifting up everyone in our community.” At the same time, the community

your position? “To do a hard line ban to me seems a little bit overboard,” he said. “I can’t get there on this.” Assemblyman Brian Maienschein (R-San Diego) voted in support of the bill but raised concerns on how it would be implemented. “I am not sure, from a legal standpoint, how this definition would work. Reasonable minded people may disagree on what is a discriminatory law,” he said. “In essence that is a policy decision. How is that determined?” Low announced this week that the state attorney general’s office would be given responsibility for overseeing the states that would be placed on a travel ban list for having anti-LGBT laws enacted since June 2015. The attorney general would be required to publish the list and have the power to remove a state from it should it repeal its anti-LGBT laws. Assemblyman Mark Stone (DMonterey Bay), who chairs the judiciary committee, said the bill as amended, particularly having the attorney general “do the vetting” of what states should be on the travel ban list, “goes a long way to address some of the issues brought up” when the panel first heard Low’s bill last month. While he supports the law, Stone acknowledged, “I am not still totally clear on how this actually works.” Low argued the bill is “narrow in its approach” since it is prospective to a particular date and specifies it only applies to laws that “discriminate based on sexual orientation and gender expression.” He also noted the bill specifies that, “religious freedom is a cornerstone of the law in the United States.” The San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution in support of Low’s bill at its meeting Tuesday afternoon. Gay District 8 Supervisor Scott Wiener, who authored the resolution, is also looking at having San Francisco adopt its own travel ban law. “We must take firm action to push back against this governmentsanctioned hatred,” Wiener wrote on Facebook last month in support of Lee’s being the first political leader to issue a ban on taxpayer-funded travel to North Carolina. He is currently working to draft the measure and is unsure of when it would be introduced at the board. “We need to make sure we are being very targeted in terms of laws that exclude the LGBT community from full citizenship. There needs to be a process in place for identifying a state that is in this category and what the consequence will be,” Wiener told the B.A.R. Tuesday.t Web Extra: For more queer political news, be sure to check http:// www.ebar.com Monday mornings at noon for Political Notes, the notebook’s online companion. This week’s column reported on a state bill that would provide protections for same-sex couples who have children through surrogacy. Keep abreast of the latest LGBT political news by following the Political Notebook on Twitter @ http://twitter.com/politicalnotes. Got a tip on LGBT politics? Call Matthew S. Bajko at (415) 8298836 or e-mail m.bajko@ebar.com.

should still be savoring winning the right to wed, said Levinson. “We have so much to be proud of, particularly marriage equality, which I have done three times to the same woman,” said Levinson, who is married to Naomi Fine. “I am so proud to be a visible lesbian leader willing to take risks.”t

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 7

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8 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Drug protest hits Gilead A

bout 50 activists from Oakland, San Francisco, and Davis converged on the Foster City headquarters of Gilead Sciences Friday, April 1, to protest high prices for Harvoni, the onepill-a-day treatment for hepatitis C (HCV). In most cases, a 12-week course of taking Harvoni means the end of the hep C virus, but the drug costs $1,000 per pill, or about $84,000 for the treatment regimen. The Oasis Clinic in Oakland, which called for the Friday action, treats hep C patients, and officials pointed out that some insurers won’t cover Harvoni because of the high cost. The demonstration was timed to coincide with a series of actions around the world called against Big Pharma by ACT UP. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 5.2 million Americans are infected with HCV.

Jane Philomen Cleland

Trans woman brings Visibility event to the Castro by David-Elijah Nahmod

recently out transgender woman braved the somewhat blustery spring weather in order to take a stand for her community in the Castro. Bobbee Moore celebrated Transgender Day of Visibility March 31 by standing blindfolded near the entrance to Harvey Milk Plaza, holding a transgender pride flag in her right hand. “If I am visible and worthy of love and safety, give me a hug,” read the sign at her feet. The Transgender Day of Visibility was formally started in 2009 as a way to celebrate trans people. Moore, 34, said that a great deal of education was needed if transgender people were to achieve full societal acceptance. She mentioned that she had been spat upon earlier that same day near the Powell Street BART station. “There’s not enough education,” she said. “A lot of gay men and lesbians have their own hang-ups about gender. There’s a lot of stigma – people don’t understand the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity.” HIV-positive since 2012 – she contracted HIV as a result of rape, she said – Moore only recently came out as trans. A seventh generation Mormon, she said she was disowned by her family at age 17. In addition to living with HIV, Moore said she has a number of other disabilities, including, she said, some mental health issues. “Trans people have zero legal protections in 24 states,” she pointed out. “Nine states have anti-trans bills in the works. More than 60 percent

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Bobbee Moore, left, gets an embrace from Alex Pascarzi as she stands in Harvey Milk Plaza in a one-person show of visibility on Transgender Day of Visibility.

of transgenders are unemployed.” But Moore, who said she sometimes gets “dirty glares” in the Castro, found acceptance during her vigil. A number of people took her up on her offer for hugs. “I really connect with the concept of acceptance,” said 32-year-old Alex Pascarzi, as he leaned over to embrace Moore. “We’ve all been in a place where we want to be accepted. We wonder if we are.” Pascarzi, who didn’t state how he identified, explained why he thought some people were fearful of transgender people. “People are afraid of fitting in themselves,” he said. “Seeing someone who doesn’t fit in brings out our own fears that we may never fit in.” Jackie Wildstar, 34, who said she identified as queer, said that she was glad to see Moore making herself visible in the aftermath of North Caro-

lina’s passage of a sweeping anti-LGBT bill that, among other provisions, prohibits transgender people from using a public restroom that matches the gender identity with which they identify and instead requires them to use the restroom that corresponds to the identity on their birth certificate. “Our city needs this right now,” Wildstar said, referring to Moore’s vigil. “We’re losing so much due to gentrification.” Patti Navarro, a trans woman of color who said she was in her 50s, stopped by the vigil to show support and to give Moore a hug. “Trans visibility means being taken out of the darkness and into the light,” Navarro said, adding that she stood in solidarity with trans women in the Midwest and the South. “There’s a lot of trans girls out in the street, still doing sex work because they feel there’s no way out,” she said. “A lot of work needs to be done in the South and the Midwest.” As a person with disabilities, Moore said that she’d be interested in networking with different disabled communities to raise awareness for their shared issues. She mentioned her work with Affirmation, an organization for LGBT Mormons, and said that she was one of less than 10 transgender participants – out of 3,000 – in the upcoming AIDS/LifeCycle. Moore works as a roadie during the cycling event. “I will continue do a lot of education and awareness work,” Moore said, as her vigil drew to a close, noting that everyone she spoke to during the vigil had been warm and kind.t

Future for ex-thrift store space uncertain by Seth Hemmelgarn

lans for the former thrift store space owned by San Francisco’s Maitri hospice remain uncertain more than a month after a sex offenders’ rehab clinic dropped plans to move in. Sharper Future, which already provides services in the city, had signed a lease on the old Out of the Closet site at 100 Church Street, but the rehab center bowed out after neighbors expressed outrage over the move. Michael Smithwick, Maitri’s executive director, won’t say much about what may happen with the spot, which has been empty for over a year. Smithwick faced harsh criticism for his and Sharper Future’s lack of outreach to neighbors before announcing their deal, which became public just before the rehab was set to

move in. Many were con$25,550 a month. Maitri’s cerned about sex offenders budget is $2.3 million. coming into a neighborIn a follow-up email, hood popular with families the B.A.R. asked Smithwho have children. wick and Colbruno why Smithwick now has Maitri needs the help of a consulting firm helpColbruno’s firm, how ing him address media much the service is costinquiries. ing Maitri, how many Jane Philomen Cleland An email to the Bay prospective tenants the Area Reporter last week Maitri’s Michael nonprofit’s talking to, from Michael Colbruno, a Smithwick and when they hoped to partner with Milo Group have a signed lease. of California, said, “Maitri continSmithwick responded by saying ues to pursue efforts to lease our he wasn’t “prepared to answer” the space that meets the needs of the questions. community and the neighborhood. BergDavis Public Affairs, the This rental income is critical to our public relations firm that Sharper operations and helps us serve those Future hired earlier this year, didn’t who are most in need.” respond to an email asking whether Almost three years ago, Maitri the company has found a new site. provided AIDS Healthcare FoundaThe rehab has offered services at tion, which operates Out of the Clos1540 Market Street, but that buildet, with an estimate that the fair maring is set to be demolished to make ket value of the space was $24,820 to way for a high-rise.t

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10 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Lesbian-owned coffeehouse named a Small Business of the Year by Heather Cassell

quator Coffees and Teas is the first-ever LGBT-owned business to be named a Small Business of the Year in the U.S. Maria Contreras-Sweet, the head of the U.S. Small Business Administration, announced 54 small businesses, including lesbian-owned Equator, representing the 50 states and four U.S. territories, to receive the honor in a recent news release. Equator life partners and cofounders Brooke McDonnell, president, and Helen Russell, CEO, will be honored in Washington, D.C. May 2 and will represent California during events celebrating Small Business Week, May 1-7, in the nation’s capital. National events are planned to take place in Oakland and San Jose as well as other cities throughout the U.S. “Only in this country could this happen where you can have a small business that is also LGBT-certified making history,” said Russell, 55. “We are blessed. [We are] so fortunate to be a part of being recognized and making history.” McDonnell, 58, agreed. “It’s pretty intoxicating. I think it’s taken a minute to sort of trickle

through our consciousabout jobs for us.” ness, ‘Wow, this is making Well deserved history,’” she said. “Wow! Jacklyn Jordan, an ally We are part of something and founder and president larger. I think everybody of Capital Access Group, craves that. Everybody who, along with the SBA, wants to be connected to has helped finance several something larger.” expansion projects with JP Leddy, president of Equator since 2003, subthe Golden Gate Busimitted the women for the ness Association, praised SBA award. Equator’s selection. Jordan said the com“This recognition on pany’s tipping point came a national level impacts when it started opening all LGBT-owned busiits retail stores. nesses because it validates Equator Coffees and Teas/Alex Salkever “They were producing the contributions and this wonderful coffee all excellence found in such Equator Coffees and Teas co-founders Helen Russell, along, but the consumer, businesses and their im- left, and Brooke McDonnell, are all smiles at their portance as part of our Proof Lab Surf Shop location in Mill Valley, California. the individual consumer, was not so aware of it national economic landif they didn’t go to the scape,” he said. “It means why we should be here. We are here French Laundry every LGBT-owned businesses to make an impact for a short periday,” said Jordan, referring to one have a place at the small business od of time, so wherever we can add of the many upscale restaurants and table and we plan to stay there.” value that’s what we are going to do. companies that buy Equator. McDonnell and Russell also re“This is what business is about. Some of those companies incently learned they are finalists for Business for us is about impact,” said clude French Laundry chef Thomas the 2016 Good Food Awards for the Russell, who was born and raised in Keller’s other restaurants, chef Traci coffees produced from their Finca a blue-collar family in Massachusetts Des Jardins’ Jardiniere in San FranSophia coffee farm in Panama. before heading west in the late 1980s cisco, and Google and LinkedIn. “It’s really not what you do, but to be with McDonnell. “At the end Jordan was part of the team helpwhy you do it because it’s an imof the day it’s about people and it’s ing Equator go to the next level when pact,” said Russell. “I think that’s

McDonnell and Russell approached her with plans to open up cafes to bring their craft coffee to the people. “We are tremendously proud of what they’ve accomplished, tremendously proud,” said Jordan. “They deserve all of the credit that they are getting.” “The bottom line is the coffee is great,” added Mark Quinn, a 63-year-old ally who is the district director at the SBA’s San Francisco office. “They are successful because they are good at what they do.” In February Equator garnered Internet buzz when it sold a $15 cup of coffee at its San Francisco cafe, an inaugural harvest from the Panama farm.

Number one in many ways

The small business honor is only one of many firsts for Equator, a 21-year-old San Rafael-based company that started out as a coffee roastery and has grown into one of the few fully integrated coffee companies in the U.S. Equator was one of the first California businesses to become Fair Trade-Certified. It’s also an LGBTowned Business Enterprise and is See page 30 >>

Book details struggles LGBT couples face when starting families by David-Elijah Nahmod

ith marriage equality now legal in all 50 states, more and more same-sex couples are moving on to the next step in their relationship by starting families. Former Bay Area residents Eric and Mat Rosswood, who are married and adopted a son several years ago, know all too well that even with the law now on their side, starting a family can be a daunting task. Eric Rosswood, now a stay-athome dad who writes for the New Civil Rights Movement, has written a new book that he hopes will answer people’s questions about same-sex parenting and help couples, as well as singles, decide how to best make their dreams of parenthood come true. Rosswood’s book, Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood: Firsthand Advice, Tips and Stories From Lesbian and Gay Couples, was published last month. The Rosswoods now live in Kansas with their son. They left the Bay Area due to Mat Rosswood’s job. When they were living here, Eric Rosswood served on the board that oversees San Francisco Pride. He

SF LGBT center

From page 3

“He was so delicious and I loved him.” His death due to AIDS-related complications, said Cole, “was such a poignant and sad loss for the community. And he was so flamboyant; I could just see him entering on those stairs. They were made for him. The only problem was they built in in the wrong direction. They should be facing the street.” The stairway, which leads from the ground floor lobby to the second floor, is one of a number of interior elements that will be altered inside the center’s modern half. It is the most significant change to the building, at 1800 Market Street, since it first opened its doors in 2002. “I think this project is a rare win-win, when you look at how the building will be used more effectively, and we are bringing in more nonprofits and more services,” said center Executive Director Rebecca Rolfe. “It also builds a strong financial base for the center.”

Zodiac Portraits

Author Eric Rosswood, left, with his husband, Mat, and their son, Connor.

was also a chapter leader for Marriage Equality USA. “Kansas has been awesome so far,” the author told the Bay Area Reporter in a recent telephone interview. “Everyone has been welcoming – we live in a liberal bubble of a red state – but there is still plenty of work to be done in Kansas.” This month center officials expect to begin construction on the $6.5 million renovation of the 35,000 square foot building, comprised of a modern structure attached to the Fallon Building, a Queen Annestyle Victorian built in 1894 at the corner site, where Market Street and Octavia Boulevard intersect. Local architect S. Jane Cee, who 20 years ago was first selected to lead the initial design and construction of the center, won the commission to re-examine the needs of the building. “Even more than I could have imagined 20 years ago, space in San Francisco is even more at a premium,” said Cee, a lesbian who owns Cee Architects. “So finding space to make the center more efficient and avail itself to more meeting space is the quest.”

Remodel plans

During a recent tour of the building, center officials described their plans for the remodel, which the Bay Area Reporter first reported on in September. All four of the center’s floors will be significantly reconfigured, and

Rosswood, 36, said that the seeds for the book were planted when he and Mat, 41, were doing their own research on adoption prior to finding their son, Connor. “So much of the information we found was one-sided,” he said. “It was written from the perspectives of agencies, professionals, or from people doing studies. We were looking for the pros and cons of our various options. I wanted to hear the stories of people who had been through the journey themselves.” And so, after they adopted their son, Rosswood sought out other LGBT adoptive parents. “I collected stories from different paths,” Rosswood said. “I wanted to tell the raw emotional experiences they had. I wanted everything, because this is a huge decision. I wanted readers to know what they’re up against.” Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood consists of the very personal stories of the people with whom Rosswood connected. Experiences include adoption – the author shares his own story and that of a lesbian couple. Foster parenting, surrogacy, coparenting, and assisted reproduction experiences are eloquently discussed

by other LGBT couples and single parents. The stories give readers a complete understanding of what each method entails, as well as issues that are specific to LGBT families. In one section, a gay couple decided to have a baby through international surrogacy, but wound up stranded in India after the government refused to grant an exit visa for their newborn twins. The real-life stories highlight the emotional, logistical, and legal struggles people in the LGBT community go through when trying to start their families. “Even for people who aren’t planning to have kids, the stories are eyeopeners,” Rosswood said. “I wish we had something like this when we started out.” The book opens with a foreword by actress Melissa Gilbert (Little House on the Prairie). The former child star is now a grandmother, and writes that her own ever-changing family has had a diverse array of members. British actor Charlie Condou (Coronation Street), himself a gay dad, shares his own story of coparenting with a female friend in his

the amount of office space from Market Street, so will increase from 5,000 to it can operate indepen15,000 square feet. dently of the center. The reception desk is On the second floor a moving from the left side new meeting room, with to the right side of the a 42-person capacity, will entryway. Replacing the be built on what is now staircase, as well as a little open space to the lobby. used ticket booth, will be Two new meeting rooms, Rick Gerharter a new meeting room that one for 20 people, the can also double as a gallery LGBT Community other for 113, will be built space. It will have retract- Center Executive out of storage spaces able walls so it can also be Director Rebecca on the building’s Waller opened up for events. Street side. Rolfe. A room designated for All three will feature center staff is being added in the glass walls to allow for the interior back left area of the ground floor. spaces to be visible. The largest of Adjacent to it will be an L-shaped the rooms will incorporate a metal table housing the David Bohnett garage door that can be opened Cyber Center, which will feature 10 to reveal a new glass wall fronting new computers being donated by Waller Street. the David Bohnett Foundation. A wall that blocks off the center’s The center is adding a new glass Rainbow Room, used for larger wall and doorway to separate from events, from the center’s Market the lobby area what it hopes will Street facade will be removed and again be a cafe, though no one an emergency egress there will be has signed a lease yet for the 1,540 incorporated into the space, which square foot space. By doing so, the will hold 265 people. The room’s cafe will have a dedicated entrance back wall will be moved forward,

heartfelt introduction. Rosswood urged people to remain politically aware and active, so that rights gained cannot be lost. He pointed out that senatorial elections are as important as the current presidential campaign. “Look at what else you can do to get critical legislation passed,” he advised. “We need an LGBT person, or an ally, on the U.S. Supreme Court.” Rosswood, who added that he and his husband hope to adopt more children, will be hosting a webinar in mid-April where he plans to answer people’s questions. The exact date of the webinar is still in the works: details will be posted on his website, www.ericrosswood. com, where information on purchasing Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood can also be found.t resulting in slightly smaller square footage than had existed. “We will be consolidating all of the center’s programs and staff onto the first and second floors,” said Rolfe. The third floor meeting rooms will be completely reconfigured to accommodate the space needs of Bay Area Legal Aid, which has leased the entire floor, including the offices in the Victorian side. On the fourth floor, new office space will be built on the lobby area’s open atrium for AGUILAS, short for Assembly of United Gays Impacting Latinos toward SelfEmpowerment, which currently leases space on the third floor of the center. The area that now houses a warren of small offices will be repurposed for a new primary care clinic for the Asian and Pacific Islander Wellness Center. And moving into what is now the Spencer Andrew Ceremonial Room will be the UCSF Center of See page 30 >>

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<< Besties 2016

12 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

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Besties reveal what B.A.R. readers like

BESTIES The LGBT Best of the Bay

2016

Georg Lester Some of the Bestie winners posed for a photo at Oasis and include, seated from left, Ginger Snap (Gay Softball League), Sister Roma (best LGBT activist) and Elizabeth Wilkinson (Gay Softball League). Standing in back from left are, Dr. Michael Perona (best dentist), Blake Joergen and Vincent Fuqua (Gay Softball League), and Katharine Holland (best Realtor).

compiled by Cynthia Laird

hen we started the Besties survey five years ago, the Bay Area Reporter had turned 40 and we thought it would be a great way to hear from readers about what they liked in the LGBT community and beyond. Over the years, the survey has increased in popularity. In short, readers like voting for their favorites in various categories, and we try to keep it fresh by adding new categories and retiring others. Some favorites never change, however, and it’s a testament to readers that a lot of them have strong opinions. This year, our sixth annual poll coincides with the B.A.R.’s 45th anniversary. As most people know, the print media business isn’t exactly robust – and hasn’t been for several years – with newspaper closings and consolidations all too common. Those of us in LGBT print media that are surviving have done so by adapting to the digital landscape

and providing original content. Honestly, the B.A.R. is working on the former, and excels in the latter. So, we’re proud to be here as we start our 45th year, and look forward to the challenges ahead. But back to the Besties. Readers will find write-ups about this year’s honorees throughout all three sections of the paper – news, arts and culture, and BARtab. We’d like to thank the winners who

attended our photo shoot at Oasis – they are an eclectic group of artists, entertainers, business people, athletes, and others who make San Francisco’s LGBT community shine like no other. We’d also like to acknowledge this year’s Besties sponsors Alaska Airlines, Maui Sunseeker, Oasis, La Mediterranee, Stanford Court, and Hangar 1 Vodka. Enjoy reading about this year’s Bestie winners.t

Community

Best LGBT Event

San Francisco Pride

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The 46th annual San Francisco LGBT Pride parade and festival fill the last weekend in June with parties, pizazz, and a chance for everyone, LGBTQ or not, to celebrate our wonderfully diverse and welcoming city by the bay. Overseen by the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee, the parade and festival won the Besties’ best LGBT event for the fourth consecutive year, making it a favorite for readers and the roughly 1 million people who attend or participate. SF Pride officials were happy to hear the news. “It is humbling to receive this honor from the B.A.R. readers, who are our neighbors and our peers, especially in a city with so many incredible and well-produced events,” SF Pride Executive Director George Ridgely said in an email. “The recognition speaks to the level of dedication and hard work that the entire production team and board of directors invest in making SF Pride an annual success.” Ridgely remarked that last year, due to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide, was “momentous for our movement.” “And that was certainly reflected in both our parade and celebration,” he said. Over the years, SF Pride board, staff,

Rick Gerharter

City College of San Francisco’s contingent marched in last year’s LGBT Pride parade.

and members have worked to ensure that the event remains relevant. “The theme for our upcoming event this June is ‘For Racial and Economic Justice,’ and I do believe that it resonates with the conversations happening around this country and the world,” Ridgely said. “SF Pride has a 46year history at the forefront of the fight for equality and justice, and our theme for 2016 is intended to shed light on the intersections of our movement with the broader population, as well as acknowledge our connected struggles and our obligation to address them.” Ridgely also noted that Pride is celebrated in cities and communities across the globe, and San Francisco has long been a part of that. “Pride events around the world continue to provide a relevant platform for a chorus of voices to be heard and we take our part in that legacy very seriously,” he said. San Francisco Pride is June 25-26. http://www.sfpride.org. Runner-up Folsom Street Fair

Best LGBT Fundraiser, Best HIV/AIDS Nonprofit

San Francisco AIDS Foundation

Rick Gerharter

www.heraca.org

Some of the 2,500 participants in the 2014 AIDS/LifeCycle leave the Cow Palace on their first leg of the ride to Los Angeles.

The San Francisco AIDS Foundation is the winner of both categories this year. Its AIDS/LifeCycle, in which it partners with the Los Angeles LGBT Center, won for fundraising, while the agency itself won best HIV/AIDS nonprofit, a new category this year. See page 14 >>

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<< Besties 2016

14 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Making change on social media and for LGBTQ youth by Cynthia Laird

ay Area Reporter readers recognized two examples of activism in this year’s Besties, one focusing on social media changes and the other empowering LGBTQ youth. Sister Roma, of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, was the readers’ choice for best LGBTQ activist, while Ruby Spies placed first in the under 25 category. Roma, 53, has been a Sister for 29 years, and took up the call as a leader of the My Name Is Coalition that is continuing to work with Facebook over its real names policy. In the fall of 2014, drag queens, including the drag nuns of the Sisters, joined with trans people and others to protest Facebook’s policy that allows users to create accounts only with their real names. They argued that many of them use their names professionally, and have developed loyal fan bases. For others, it was a matter of safety. The issue started when Roma took to Twitter about the problem with Facebook’s real name policy and used the hashtag #MyNameIsRoma. “The next day Sergio [Quintana] from KGO-TV was talking to me,” she said, adding that the tweet went viral and was picked up by CNN, the BBC, and other outlets.

Georg Lester

Sister Roma of the My Name Is Coalition.

“That got Facebook’s attention,” Roma noted. Facebook has always required people to use their real, or legal, name. But that has created issues when other people flag those accounts, often accounts of trans people or drag queens, resulting in account suspensions. The My Name Is Coalition held several meetings with Facebook representatives that eventually resulted in some changes. At a public meeting last December in the Castro, Facebook officials reiterated a change to the policy that allows people in certain circumstances to explain their situation. For example, Roma said, it’s not

that easy for every trans person to update their name with state officials. Yet they want to be a part of the Facebook community using the name with which they identify. Before the December 2015 meeting, Facebook had announced that it would also require people who flag other users for using a fake name to provide more information and context. “They have made several updates to the policy,” Roma said in an interview last week. “It’s more difficult to report ‘fake’ names.” But the issue is not completely fixed, and the My Name Is Coalition continues to monitor the situation. Over the years, Roma has been involved with other actions, including the Sisters’ Stop the Violence campaign. In conjunction with the San Francisco Police Department and Castro Community on Patrol, the Sisters hand out whistles to people, who are advised to carry them. In case of an emergency, they can use the whistle to alert passersby that there’s a problem. Roma said that she’s pleased to be recognized by B.A.R. readers for her activism. “I’m completely honored and thrilled to accept on behalf of My Name Is,” she said. Roma, who’s lived in San Francisco for 31 years, continues to take action

Courtesy Ruby Spies

BAYS President Ruby Spies

when there’s an issue that needs to be addressed. During this year’s Pride parade in June, she said that she’ll be marching with organizational grand marshal Black Lives Matter.

Youth activist

Spies, 16, is in her sophomore year at Berkeley High School and is a board member of Bay Area Youth Summit, a completely youth-led nonprofit that hosts an annual conference for LGBTQ and allied youth in the greater Bay Area. She previously served as president. She was happy to learn B.A.R. readers recognized her as best LGBT activist under 25. “That is so wonderful to hear,” Spies said in an email. “I am thrilled.”

UNDER ONE ROOF, AND DOWN THE STREET.

Spies said that BAYS “was the first place” where she was able to feel comfortable and confident in her queer identity. “I have loved helping BAYS to persevere, evolve, and thrive,” she said in an email. At school, Spies is in a small learning community focused on teaching social justice and media literacy. She was recently selected to be one of the student members of the Berkeley High Design Team, a group working to create an equitable education for every student. Spies is also the co-president of her school’s GSA (gender and sexuality alliance), leading its support group, planning actions, and conducting presentations in classrooms to raise awareness. One of Spies’ interests is creating a dialogue about mental health among young people, and she plans to work this year on developing a peer-educator mental health curriculum for high school classrooms. “I believe that youth have the power to greatly shape their world and make meaningful change,” she said. Outside of her activism, Spies said she enjoys hiking, cooking, destroying the patriarchy, writing poetry, and dancing Bharatanatyam, a classical South Indian dance form. Runners-up Mia Tu Mutch (LGBTQ activist) Austin Padilla (LGBTQ youth activist)t

Kaiser Permanente is now open in Mission Bay.

2016 WINNER Kaiser Permanente, Best Healthcare Provider Bay Area Reporter’s Readers Choice Award

Thank you, Bay Area Reporter readers for again choosing Kaiser Permanente as the “BEST HEALTH CARE PROVIDER” in 2016. At Kaiser Permanente our doctors are focused on more than practicing good medicine. They take the time to really listen. And give all members the personalized, culturally sensitive care they deserve.

2016

kp.org/sanfrancisco

Community

From page 12

Senior Vice President James Loduca told the B.A.R. that the foundation “wouldn’t be the organization we are if people didn’t support the LifeCycle and our activities.” “It’s as much a community honor as it is ours,” he said. “Without the community, the foundation doesn’t exist.” The LifeCycle brought in $16.67 million last year. The 545-mile weeklong bicycle trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles increased participation this year by 200 riders, up to 2,700, and Loduca said that registration sold out earlier than ever before. It takes place June 5-11. “That could only happen in a special place like California,” Loduca said, referring to the event filling up. “People continue to be touched by” HIV/AIDS and the ride’s impact on participants. As for the foundation itself, it opened the new Strut men’s health center in the Castro in early January and after what Loduca said were a few natural “hiccups,” things are running smoothly. “We’re really excited to see strong interest from all parts of the community,” he said. “The biggest challenge now is that all our community events have grown faster than we anticipated. It speaks to how eager the community was for this model.” The building houses the foundation’s services geared toward gay, bisexual, and trans men, including sexual health services (formerly Magnet), substance use services (formerly the Stonewall Project), Positive Force, the Elizabeth Taylor 50-Plus Network for men age 50 and older, the DREAAM Project for young African-American men, and the Bridgemen volunteer program. In other news, the foundation’s new CEO, Joe Hollendoner, is expected to start in the position May 2. A gay man, Hollendoner is from Chicago, where he most recently served as the first deputy commissioner at the Chicago Department of Public Health. www.aidslifecycle.org, www.sfaf.org. Runners-up Academy Awards Gala (Academy of Friends) AIDS Emergency Fund See page 20 >>

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<< Besties 2016

16 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Best Barbershop

Inc.’s Opera Plaza location at 601 Van Ness Avenue. That site will have an expanded LGBT section to better serve customers from the Castro. Books Inc., 2275 Market Street, San Francisco, (415) 864-6777. http://www.booksinc.net.

Joe’s Barbershop

SERVICES & SHOPPING Best Automaker

Tesla

Tesla Motors was founded in 2003 by a group of engineers in Silicon Valley who wanted to prove that electric cars could be better than gasoline-powered cars. The company, which took over the former General Motors-Toyota New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. (NUMMI) plant in Fremont a few years ago, produces its successful Model S sedan and has plans to roll out its Model X crossover vehicle. It unveiled its Model 3 last week. The cars aren’t cheap – the Model S starts at about $71,000 – and CEO and co-founder Elan Musk has helped build the brand as he works to promote electric vehicles. Tesla Motors, http://www.teslamotors.com Runner-up Honda

Best Bank

Wells Fargo Wells Fargo continues to be a favorite of Bay Area Reporter readers. The bank, headquartered in San Francisco, provides full banking services and also gives back by sponsoring or donating to various LGBT events and organizations. Wells Fargo is listed on the 2016 Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, where it again scored a perfect 100 percent. Wells Fargo Bank, http://www. wellsfargo.com Runner-up SF Federal Credit Union

Joe’s Barbershop began in 2004 with Joe Gallagher, a.k.a. Joe the Barber. Now, 12 years later, after a relocation, a fire, and the addition of 12 barbers, Joe’s is the go-to destination for flat tops, mohawks, buzzes, beards, and fades. “I am very proud of the business I have built and take much pride in it, but none of it would be possible without the dedication and loyalty of our customers, who truly make Joe’s Barbershop what it is today,” Gallagher, a gay man, said in an email. Gallagher’s quest to be a professional barber started in 2001 when he entered Moler Barber College in Oakland, California. After he finished barber college, he went on to take and pass the California State Barber Board exam and became a licensed barber. Gallagher, who was International Mr. Leather in 1996, moved to San Francisco in 1998 from New York City. Joe’s Barbershop, 2150 Market Street, San Francisco, (415) 2559096. http://www.joesbarbershop. com. Runner-up Daddy’s Barbershop

Best Bicycle Shop

Valencia Cyclery B.A.R. readers again voted Valencia Cyclery the best bike shop in the city. The store has been doing business at its Mission district location under the same ownership since 1985. With bikes becoming more and more popular as a commuter choice, look for the store to provide full maintenance services. According to its website, the store can repair just about any make or model of bicycle, from kids’ bikes to carbon fiber models. In keeping with its community spirit, Valencia Cyclery gives back to the community. From June 9-12

Runner-up Green Apple Books Rick Gerharter

Joe Gallagher, proprietor of Joe’s Barbershop, takes a break.

it will hold its 21st annual Project Open Hand benefit sale. Its website says the sale offers the best deals of the year and 10 percent will be donated to Project Open Hand (winner of this year’s best health-related nonprofit). The store has donated a total of $132,754 to Project Open Hand over the last two decades. Valencia Cyclery, 1065 and 1077 Valencia Street, San Francisco, (415) 550-6600 (sales) or (415) 550-6601 (repairs). http://www. valenciacyclery.com. Runner-up Mission Bicycle Company

Best Bookstore

Books Inc.

Books Inc. is again the readers’ choice, but unfortunately, as the B.A.R. reported a few weeks ago, the much-loved Castro branch of the chain will close in mid-June due to declining sales. Until then, however, readers can browse, shop, and attend author appearances and other events at the Upper Market location. The locally-owned independent bookseller has 11 locations in California. The Castro site was the first one that company president and CEO Michael Tucker and his business partner opened when they took over the company in the mid-1990s. After June, much of the store’s LGBT programming will move to Books

Congratulations to Katharine! ZEPHYR REAL ESTATE would like to congratulate KATHARINE HOLLAND on winning the BESTIE AWARD for REALTOR OF THE YEAR!

Best Dentist

Michael J. Perona, DDS Dr. Michael J. Perona was a favorite of B.A.R. readers for its inaugural readers’ poll in 2011 and again took the top spot this year. Perona, a gay man, received his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from UC Santa Barbara. He graduated from UCSF’s School of Dentistry in 1995 and started working in San Francisco after that. Perona’s practice offers comprehensive dentistry, including cosmetic, restorative, and preventative services. “Our practice is focused on providing our patients an exceptional experience,” Perona said in an email. “This starts with their first phone call and continues when they’re there. Our office is warm and inviting and has a relaxed atmosphere. We spend time to explain how our practice works, what I find during their examination and what treatments we can offer them to maintain a happy, healthy mouth.” Perona said he is always learning about the latest advances in dental care, attending over 100 hours per year of continuing education. “I feel this is the best way to improve my skills and stay up to date on wants new and improving,” he said. He added that he was thrilled to be recognized by B.A.R. readers. “I feel honored to have been voted best dentist, again, this year,” he said. “It feels extra special to know that my patients value my practice and what we do for them.” Perona’s friendly and experienced staff know how to make patients smile, even during a trip to the dentist. Dr. Michael J. Perona, DDS, 188 Spear Street, Suite 105, San Francisco, (415) 546-7990. http://www. sfteeth.com. Runner-up Opera Plaza Dentistry

Best Dog Park

Duboce Park Another repeat winner, readers love taking their dogs to Duboce Park, in the city’s Duboce Triangle neighborhood. Users love its grassy fields and dogs can run around and get their exercise without bothering kids, sunbathers, and other users. sfrecpark.org/parks-open-spaces/ dog-play-areas-program/. Runner-up Bernal Heights Dog Park

Katharine Holland Associate Broker LIC#01336487 415.378.2697 kholland@1sanfran.com KatharineHolland.com

Best Grocery Store (Chain)

Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s is the winner in this new category. Readers love the store’s products and inexpensive prices. Whether you’re doing your weekly shopping or stopping to get a pre-made salad for lunch or a bottle of wine for dinner, Trader Joe’s has a great selection of fresh produce, meats, breads, and grocery and snack items. www.traderjoes.com.

the store’s wealth of dried spices, rice, and goods you can’t find anywhere else. It also has a great cheese department and friendly staff. Rainbow has served San Francisco and the Bay Area since 1975 and celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. “While we strive to offer the widest selection of organic and locally sourced products at the most affordable price, we also hope to be a resource for our community to exchange information about the health and sustainability of the foods we put on our tables,” staff said on Rainbow’s website. “As a worker-owned cooperative, those of us who work here are more than simply the labor-force of this business, we are the business,” the website states. “And while we have come to work here for many different reasons, we all share the common desire to work in a nonhierarchical, democratic workplace where everyone’s opinion matters.” Rainbow has about 220 workers. Rainbow Grocery, 1745 Folsom Street, San Francisco, (415) 8630620. http://www.rainbow.coop. Runner-up Bi-Rite Market

Courtesy Rainbow Grocery

Rainbow Grocery has a great spice selection.

Best Health Care Provider

Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a repeat winner in this category, and just in time to celebrate its new Mission Bay Medical Offices, which provide primary care, specialty care, and support services. With nine stories and over 200,000 square feet, the new offices offer everything from adult and pediatric care to women’s health services and pharmacy, all under one roof. Last month, all 38 of Kaiser Permanente’s hospitals were recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest LGBT civil rights organization. Kaiser Permanente has earned “Top Performer” or “Leader” status each year since 2010. The honor is given to facilities that meet LGBT-inclusive benchmarks that are part of the HRC Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index, a unique annual survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees. http://www.kp.org Runner-up UCSF See page 18 >>

Runner-up Whole Foods

Best Grocery Store (Independent)

Rainbow Grocery This worker-owned co-op is so gay-friendly that it closes for Pride Sunday every year. Customers love

Jane Philomen Cleland

Dogs play tug-o-war in Duboce Park.

<< Besties 2016

18 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Services & Shopping

Best Pet Hotel

Best Medical Marijuana Dispensary

The Apothecarium

Support may be growing for the legalization of recreational marijuana, but until state law changes, possibly via a ballot measure this November, medical cannabis is still a necessity for a lot of patients. The Apothecarium in San Francisco is a repeat winner in this category, as readers like the licensed, full-service medical cannabis dispensary. In the B.A.R.’s Business Briefs column last month, it was reported that the Apothecarium plans to relocate from its small storefront at the corner of Church, Market, and 14th streets to the shuttered Shanghai Restaurant space up the block. Coowner Ryan Howard said that the new space will have a lot more room not only for staff, but also to ensure customers no longer have to wait outside during peak times. The dispensary also has a philanthropic board, and has donated more than $300,000 to local groups since opening in 2011. The Apothecarium, 2095 Market Street, San Francisco, (415) 500-2620. http://www.apothecariumsf.com. Runner-up Green Door

Runner-up San Francisco Veterinary House Calls

Wag Hotels

From page 16

Courtesy the Apothecarium

The Apothecarium offers a fine selection of medical cannabis.

Best Place to Pamper Your Pets

Mudpuppy’s Tub and Scrub Mudpuppy’s Tub and Scrub, long a favorite of B.A.R. readers, is back in the winner’s circle this year. With two locations in San Francisco, including the Castro, Mudpuppy’s offers full grooming and bathing services. It’s location at Point Isabel in Richmond, adjacent to the off-leash dog park, offers bathing only. Owner Daniel Bergerac has said that what makes the business successful are the crews of experienced animal lovers that work at each location. Mudpuppy’s Tub and Scrub, 536 Castro Street, San Francisco, (888) 505-2998. http://www. mudpuppys.com. Runner-up Best in Show

This is a new category and this year Wag Hotels is the winner. With locations in San Francisco, Oakland, and Redwood City, Wag offers pet boarding that’s like a hotel stay for your dog (or cat). Suite sizes and amenities vary, with some deluxe suites including a web cam so that you can check on your pet anytime. The company’s website says that its pet hotels are custom-built, stateof-the-art pet care facilities designed to provide a clean, safe, and stressfree environment for your pet. Wag is strict about making sure your pet is current on vaccines. Other services offered include allday play and grooming. Wag Hotels, 25 14th Street, San Francisco, (415) 876-0700. http:// www.waghotels.com. Runner-up Wag Hotels, Oakland

Best Retirement Community

San Francisco Towers San Francisco Towers is a repeat winner in this category. The retirement community is very LGBTfriendly, and includes local resident Gustavo Serina, who writes as Tavo Amador for the B.A.R.’s arts and culture section.

Creating Memories for a Lifetime! THE CLIFF HOUSE TERRACE ROOM A UNIQUE SAN FRANCISCO EXPERIENCE Ceremonies • Receptions • Family Celebrations • Parties

Best Vintage Clothing/ Consignment

Buffalo Exchange Courtesy Mudpuppy’s

A dog shakes off to the surprise of a Mudpuppy’s crew member at the Point Isabel shop.

According to its website, SF Towers provides world-class living that is a true community where likeminded residents are part of your life and your lifestyle. Operated by Episcopal Senior Communities, SF Towers offers residents a variety of scheduled outings to events like the symphony or ballet, as well as in-house lectures and special interest groups like the poetry lunch. Amenities include a pool, roof-top lounge, and activity rooms. It also has assisted living, rehabilitation, and 24hour nursing service on site. Interested people can call to schedule a tour. San Francisco Towers, 1661 Pine Street, San Francisco, (415) 776-0500. http://www.jtm-esc. org/san-francisco-towers/. Runner-up The Sequoias – San Francisco

Best Ride-Hailing Service

Uber

Uber is the leader in ride-hailing services, but this was a very close category, with only four votes separating the winner and the runner-up. With Uber, you tap the app and a ride comes to you. Payment is completely cashless. On the flip side, lots of people make extra money by driving for Uber, which is valued by investors at more than $60 billion. Uber is currently renovating the former Sears store in downtown Oakland, where it will relocate its headquarters. http://www.uber.com.

Buffalo Exchange is a repeat winner this year, although it was a close call, with only 16 votes separating the winner and runner-up. The store specializes in new and recycled fashion. People can bring in their former favorites and receive cash or trade on the spot. Customers can also trade merchandise. The everchanging inventory includes designer labels, vintage, jeans, leather, current basics, and one-of-a-kind items. You’ll also find brand new merchandise and accessories. Prices range widely, depending on the label, style, and other factors. Many items average around $15, although designer jeans are higher in price. Stores are generally located in progressive, urban areas; there are two outlets in San Francisco and one in Berkeley. Coming up is the April 23 Earth Day $1 sale, with a large selection of items available for a buck. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Center for Biological Diversity and their efforts to protect the environment. Buffalo Exchange, 1555 Haight Street and 1210 Valencia Street in San Francisco, (415) 431-7733 or (415) 647-8332. In Berkeley, 2585 Telegraph Avenue, (510) 6449202. www.buffaloexchange.com. Runner-up Crossroads Trading Co.

Best Wireless Carrier

Verizon

This is a new category and Verizon was the winner for cellphone users. Stores offer the latest in smartphones, tablets, and accessories. According to its website, Verizon is consistently ranked highest in independent tests nationwide. http://www.verizon.com Runner-up AT&T

Runner-up Lyft

Best Thrift Store

Out of the Closet Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation operates Out of the Closet, a chain of thrift stores that raises money for the organization. There are several Bay Area locations, each stocked with clothing, books, DVDs, and other assorted items. At the location in Oakland, people can also get a free HIV test from a certified counselor. The stores accept donations of clothing, household items, and more. Out of the Closet, 1295 Folsom Street and 1498 Polk Street in San Francisco, (415) 558-7176 or (415) 771-1503. In Oakland, 238 E. 18th Street, (510) 251-8671. http:// www.outofthecloset.org. Runner-up Community Thrift

Best Veterinarian

Mission Pet Hospital

www.CliffHouse.com 1090 Point Lobos • San Francisco • 415-386-3330 Private Events Direct • 415-666-4027 • virginia@cliffhouse.com

A repeat winner in this category, Mission Pet Hospital has been in business for more than 30 years and is able to coordinate specialists to treat your pet. The practice has multiple doctors. Its website features important information to help pet guardians get information on common medical issues and provides tips for home health care. Mission Pet Hospital also has emergency phone consultations from 7 p.m. to midnight. Mission Pet Hospital, 720 Valencia Street, San Francisco, (415) 552-1969. http://www.missionpet. com.

Jane Philomen Cleland

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus performed at Grace Cathedral last summer.

Best Place to Worship

Grace Cathedral

B.A.R. readers can be spiritual, and in this new category, Grace Cathedral is the winner. The Episcopal Church atop Nob Hill is known for its inclusion of LGBT people and is the cathedral for the Episcopal Diocese of California. Its worship services are open to the public. “We welcome you to worship in this sacred space at the crossroads of many communities in San Francisco,” its website states. A house of prayer for all people, Grace Cathedral offers opportunities to worship with others every day of the week. It also offers regular special programming, events, and guest preachers. Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street, San Francisco, (415) 749-6300. http://www.gracecathedral.org. Runner-up Metropolitan Community Church-San Franciscot

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE. (WE’LL TAKE CARE OF THE REST.)

cityclubsf.com

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3/31/16 3:27 PM

<< Besties 2016

20 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Holland knows how to sell a house by Cynthia Laird

ast fall, Chompers the corgi and a few of his friends took over a house on Sanchez Street at the behest of Realtor/Associate Broker Katharine Holland. The adorable YouTube video shows the corgis scampering down hallways and checking out the amenities in the over 1,250 square foot home. It was a clever way to draw attention to a property in San Francisco’s heated real estate market – and has over 54,000 views. “This video made me a corgi fan!” Holland said in a YouTube post. “Cuteness is off the charts.” She and her real estate partner, Travis Bernard, gave artistic freedom to director Brian Ray, who came up with the creative idea, Holland said in the post. “It’s fun to support artists while

doing marketing too,” she added. The property sold for $1.3 million, according to Holland’s website. Holland, a lesbian, knows a thing or two about selling homes, and has been a successful real estate agent for 14 years. She was named the readers’ choice for best Realtor. Previously a top agent for Coldwell Banker, Holland moved to Zephyr Real Estate, last December, which won in the best real estate firm category. “I am excited beyond belief,” Holland said in an email upon learning of the Besties honor. Holland, 52, wrote the Business Briefs column for the Bay Area Reporter several years ago. In a phone interview, Holland said that she is a problem-solver and that the real estate business allows here to sharpen those skills, whether it’s landlord-tenant issues or San Francisco’s visitors to enjoy. Palm Springs’ annual Pride parade in November draws huge crowds, and the city’s desert climate makes for great weather. (For more, see the travel story in the news section.) www.visitpalmsprings.com

WEDDINGS & DESTINATIONS

Runner-up New York City

Best Caterer

Taste Catering Taste Catering describes itself as “simply the best” and Bay Area Reporter readers agree, giving it their top vote in this category for a second year. Taste’s Wedding Team offers the combination of style, creativity, energy, and attention to detail needed to plan and execute a memorable wedding, the company’s website says. Whatever your plans for that special day, wedding director Hayley Seed wants to make it a memorable and delicious one. Taste Catering, 3450 Third Street, Suite 4D, San Francisco, (415) 550-6464. http://www. tastecatering.com. Runner-up J Jardine

Best Domestic Getaway

Palm Springs

Palm Springs has been a favorite of B.A.R. readers for years and it won in this new category. Many locals have retired there, relocated, or purchased second homes. Palm Springs has gay representation on its city council and school board, and offers an abundance of gay-owned and gay-friendly hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars for

Cliff Brunk

A wedding cake created by Taste Catering.

Best Formalwear for Men, Best Formalwear for Women

Macy’s

A perennial favorite of B.A.R. readers, if you’re planning a wedding or other special event, the place to go for attire is Macy’s. The store’s flagship Union Square location offers a wide selection of women’s clothing, with a men’s store across the street. You won’t go wrong shopping at this longtime favorite. Macy’s received a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2016 Corporate Equality Index. Macy’s Union Square, 170 O’Farrell Street, San Francisco, (415) 397-3333. www.macys.com. Runners-up Men’s Wearhouse (men) Saint Harridan (women)

Community

Zephyr Katharine Holland

maze of construction regulations. “I’m learning something new every day,” she said. Holland also gives back to the community. Through a combination of fundraising and personal donations, she estimated that she’s given about

Best Local Getaway

Russian River

A new category this year, readers told us that the Russian River area is their favorite local getaway for a day trip or weekend stay. The Russian River enclave of Guerneville boasts gay-owned and gay-friendly resorts, as well as shopping, bars, and restaurants in town. The river runs next to the town, providing opportunities for kayaking and more. Sonoma County Pride takes place in Guerneville June 5 with a parade and celebration. www.guerneville-online.com, www.sonomacountypride.org. Runner-up Carmel-Monterey

Best Honeymoon Destination

Hawaii

Always a popular destination for LGBT travelers, couples flock to the islands for their honeymoons. Its beaches, oceans, and natural splendor provide a romantic backdrop for newlyweds, whether they’re enjoying their vacation at a top-rated hotel or having a rustic outdoor adventure. The legalization of samesex marriage in the U.S. has only expanded opportunities for weddingrelated businesses and bolstered an already-thriving tourism market. www.gayhawaiiwedding.com; http://www.gogayhawaii.com. Runner-up Puerto Vallarta

Best Place to Buy Rings

Tiffany & Company If you’re looking for that perfect

Zephyr Real Estate was founded in San Francisco in 1978. “There were plenty of brokerages that made their agents feel like just another number, but we knew we could build a company where the agents could really be a part of the team,” Bill Drypolcher, founder of Zephyr Real Estate, says on the company’s website. Today, Zephyr maintains neigh-

high-end wedding ring, nothing says elegance like Tiffany & Company, which is a repeat winner in this category. Since 1837, the masterpieces of Tiffany & Co. have defined style and celebrated the world’s great love stories, its website states. It’s known for exceptionel designs and dazzling diamonds. The store last year started working to increase its share of the LGBT market by featuring a same-sex couple in print and TV ads. Tiffany & Company, San Francisco Centre, 845 Market Street, (415) 536-3960; 350 Post Street, San Francisco, (415) 781-7000. www.tiffany.com. Runner-up D&H Sustainable Jewelers

Best Wedding Photographer

Steven Underhill A repeat winner in this category, Steven Underhill has been a photographer since 1990. Underhill specializes in event and wedding photography, and he also takes photos for the B.A.R., including the weekly Shooting Stars feature in BARtab, the paper’s nightlife section. Underhill’s easygoing personality helps put people at ease, he said, which often makes for better photos. One of his favorite places to photograph couples is at San Francisco City Hall, which is a popular place for weddings for gays and straights alike. Steven Underhill Photography, http://www.stevenunderhill.com.

Best Health-Related Nonprofit

Project Open Hand

Runner-up Lyon-Martin Health Services Courtesy Project Open Hand

Project Open Hand volunteers prep potatoes.

intake levels “greater than we’ve seen since 1996,” Blake said, adding that the agency’s services are “needed now more than ever.” Like most nonprofits, Open Hand also relies on the Bay Area’s support. “It is only through our incredible donors that we can effectively instill hope and provide food as medicine to our clients in need,” Blake added. In other news, Open Hand, which Co-CEOs Mark Ryle and Simon Pitchford had led for the last year, announced this month that it’s returning to a single CEO model with Ryle

Best LGBT Nonprofit

LYRIC

The Lavender Youth Recreation and Information Center, or LYRIC for short, has been working with LGBTQQ youth for decades and has its well-recognized Lavender House in the Castro. It’s a new winner this year. Longtime Executive Director Jodi Schwartz said that the organization is successful because it’s “built by and for LGBTQQ young people, with the support of adult allies who believe that youth have the power and vision to shape their own successful futures.” Schwartz said that in the last year alone, LYRIC’s impact on the lives of LBTQQ youth and allies has

borhood offices in San Francisco and Marin with a roster of over 300 full-time real estate agents. “Our agents represent a diverse client base throughout the San Francisco area,” the website states. “We are committed to providing the same level of care, attention and results to all of our clients, whether it’s their first home, a business investment or a multi-million dollar estate.” Katharine Holland, (415) 3782697, kholland@1snfran.com. www.katharineholland.com. Zephyr Real Estate, http://www. zephyrre.com. Runners-up Patrick Patricelli, Vanguard Properties (best Realtor) Vanguard Properties (best real estate firm)t

Best Wedding Reception Venue

W Hotel

The W Hotel in San Francisco is less than a block from Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, in downtown San Francisco, offering a centrally located venue for weddings and receptions. The hotel is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts The hotel’s wedding services offer everything to make the couple’s special day perfect. W Hotel, 181 Third Street, San Francisco, (415) 777-5300. http:// www.wsanfrancisco.com. Runner-up City Club of San Francisco

Best Wedding Venue

San Francisco City Hall

There’s no doubt that San Francisco played a key role in the march to marriage equality, and same-sex couples pay homage to that history when they marry beneath the dome in the Rotunda, or one of the many other locations in the beautiful Beaux Arts building. City Hall event planners have created a special wedding package ($5,000 for two hours) for Saturdays before 2 p.m. and can accommodate up to 200 people. Packages for weekday weddings include areas other than the Rotunda and are less expensive, about $1,000. San Francisco City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, San Francisco. http://sfgov.org/ cityhallevents/wedding-package. Runner-up Legion of Honort

Runner-up Gareth Gooch

at the helm. [See related story page 4.] Project Open Hand, 730 Polk Street, San Francisco, (415) 447-2300; 1921 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, (510) 622-0221. http:// www.openhand.org.

From page 14

This is the second year that Project Open Hand has been recognized by B.A.R. readers; last year it won in the best LGBT nonprofit category. This year’s honor is in a new category, which recognizes organizations that provide services to people with various health issues. Open Hand, as it’s known, “prepares 2,500 nutritious meals and provides 200 bags of groceries every day, nourishing nearly 8,000 critically ill neighbors and seniors in San Francisco and Alameda counties,” Tara Blake, marketing and communications officer, said in an email. Blake said the agency is “delighted” to receive a Bestie award. “We are working tirelessly to advocate for our neighbors in need and we’re overjoyed about B.A.R. readers’ vote of confidence,” Blake said. Open Hand has been seeing new

$15,000 a year over the last 10 years. “My business is to give a lot to my clients and I give to others,” she said. “Then it comes back to me.” Holland has been a longtime member of San Francisco FrontRunners and co-founded the SF Sailing Team, an LGBT sail racing team that has taken part in Gay Games.

Lydia Daniller

Youth sit on the steps of LYRIC’s Lavender House in the Castro.

reached 1,159 people through direct services and 3,376 people through outreach. Of the youth receiving direct services, 79 percent are youth of color, 100 percent are low-income, 67 percent are under 18 years old, and 33 percent are 18-24. Teachers, nurses, other community organizations refer youth to the agency, but mostly, Schwartz said, youth bring other youth to LYRIC. LYRIC creates a network of supports for LGBTQQ youth at three lev-

els: youth advocacy (individual level); community building (interpersonal level); and workforce development (community engagement level). “In doing so, LYRIC provides disconnected LGBTQQ youth stability and a safety net by creating education and economic development opportunities designed specifically for them so they can move beyond merely surviving to flourishing as productive and connected young adults,” Schwartz said. Last year, 334 youth engaged in youth advocacy available on-site at LYRIC as well as at the Dimensions Clinic, the San Francisco LGBT Community Center’s youth meal night, and at school sites across the city, Schwartz said. Importantly, LYRIC works to inspire positive social change with the youth it serves. This is partly in response to dealing with the challenges of rejection LGBTQQ youth experience by family and community and a lack of access to institutional support “due to the interacting forms of opSee page 21 >>

Besties 2016>>

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 21

If Ocean Beach could talk

Cynthia Laird

Surf was up at Ocean Beach during a break in last month’s rainstorms.

cean Beach, of course, is one of the most popular destinations for visitors and locals alike, especially on hot days. But even when it’s stormy or cool, one can usually find people walking on the beach or a lone photographer taking pictures as windswept sand races across the Great Highway. It’s not a surprise that the 3.5-mile beach, which is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, received the most votes in this year’s readers’ poll for best beach. But what would the beach have to say about this honor? Well, it turns out the beach has a lot of opinions, as we found out during a recent interview. “The views make it special,” the beach said. “From the hot surfers to the occasional sightings of dolphins swimming along the shoreline, there’s plenty of eye-candy.” The beach also pointed out that the National Park Service’s recent decision to allow bonfires at night is a relief to many. “They could be romantic or for a getaway with friends,” the beach said. One activity the beach does enjoy is the weekly small dog runs that

Community

From page 20

pression they encounter in schools, social service agencies, and workplaces,” Schwartz explained. “Love, belonging, and connection are the universal sources of wellbeing,” Schwartz said, in response to a question about what makes LYRC a special local nonprofit. And to help those young people who experienced a trail of broken relationships, LYRIC’s mission to build community often resonates with the youth that it serves. Schwartz added that this year marks the agency’s 28th anniversary. It will hold an open house Thursday, April 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 127 Collingwood Street. The event is free and open to all. To RSVP, visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/1773400006216396/?active_ tab=highlights. LYRIC, 127 Collingwood Street, San Francisco, (415) 703-6150. http://www.lyric.org. Runner-up Openhouse

Best LGBT Sports League

SF Gay Softball League

A repeat winner in this category, the San Francisco Gay Softball Association has been providing fun for players and their fans for more than 40 years, making it one of the oldest gay athletic groups around. Commissioner Vincent Fuqua said that opening day took place March 20, delayed a couple weeks

take place on Saturdays at 10 a.m. in front of Park Chalet, as long as guardians pick up after their pets. The beach also opined on winning this year’s readers’ poll in the new category. “I’m not surprised because San Franciscans have been flocking to my sandy shores for decades,” the beach said. “They didn’t call the former amusement park Playland for nothing.” If Ocean Beach really could talk, it’s likely it would support the proposal of closing down the Great Highway by the San Francisco Zoo and rerouting the road to turn the highway into a walking and biking path. Finally, the beach had a few words of advice to help protect nature. “I do encourage everyone to abide by the rules to protect the snowy plovers during nesting season.” So there you have it, Ocean Beach loves its LGBT fans, and loves San Francisco. Ocean Beach, https://www.nps. gov/goga/planyourvisit/oceanbeach.htm or http://www.parksconservancy.org/visit/park-sites/ ocean-beach.html. Runner-up Stinson Beacht

due to weather. “Although it rained on and off we were able to still play, for the most part, and our members were amazing to deal with the inclement weather that day,” Fuqua said in an email. He said that he sees several reasons for the league’s popularity. “I believe that it is an opportunity for people to be social and active at the same time,” Fuqua said. “It is a way where you can meet new people and develop amazing friendships and it is remarkable to see that transpire.” While teams compete on the field, off the field there is a sense of camaraderie, he explained. “Our members are able to separate [competitiveness] that off the field and maintain amazing connections with one another,” Fuqua said. The league offers play at all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and players help each other out. “More importantly, we make it a safe space where you can truly be yourself,” Fuqua said. “For instance, we have a drag team, we have a transgender team, and this year we added a team for players who are 50 years and older. We always do our best to make sure that everyone finds a team, even if that means we have to create a whole new team. “We are not just a sports organization, we are a community, we are family who establishes long-lasting friendships,” he said. SF Gay Softball League, http:// www.sfgsl.org. Runner-up SF Fog Rugby Clubt

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t FDA OKs new tenofovir combo pill for HIV treatment 22 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

by Liz Highleyman

he Food and Drug Administration has approved Descovy for HIV treatment, a combination pill containing the new TAF formulation of tenofovir that is easier on the kidneys and bones, Gilead Sciences announced on Monday, April 4. The approval does not include HIV prevention, or PrEP. “While Descovy has been approved for the treatment of HIV infection, we know absolutely nothing about whether this drug works for PrEP,” Jim Pickett, director of prevention advocacy and gay men’s health at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, told the Bay Area Reporter. Tenofovir is one of the most widely used antiretrovirals, taken by more than 80 percent of people with HIV in the U.S. The older formulation, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, or TDF (sold as Viread, and an ingredient in the Atripla, Complera, and Stribild combo pills), is generally safe and well tolerated, but it can cause bone loss and kidney problems in susceptible people. Tenofovir alafenamide, or TAF, is a pro-drug that delivers the active agent (tenofovir diphosphate) to HIV-infected cells more efficiently than TDF. TAF produces high drug levels in T-

cells with smaller doses, which means lower concentrations in the blood and less drug exposure for the bones, kidneys, and other organs and tissues. Descovy is a once-daily pill containing emtricitabine and TAF – similar to Truvada, but with 25 mg of TAF replacing 300 mg of TDF. It should be used with at least one other drug, such as an HIV integrase inhibitor or protease inhibitor. It is approved for HIV-positive people age 12 and over. Descovy is now the third FDAapproved combination pill containing emtricitabine and TAF, after Genvoya (with the integrase inhibitor elvitegravir) and Odefsey (with the non-nucleoside rilpivirine). Approval of Descovy was based on Phase 3 clinical trials showing that a TAF-containing regimen worked as well as TDF-containing regimens in people starting treatment for the first time and in treatment-experienced people switching from TDF to TAF. At least 90 percent of people taking either type of regimen achieved or maintained undetectable viral load after a year, but those on TAF had less hip and spine bone loss and more favorable kidney function biomarkers than those on TDF. At the recent Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic

Courtesy Gilead Sciences

The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new HIV drug, Gilead Sciences’ Descovy.

Infections, Dr. Joel Gallant from the Southwest Care Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico reported that Descovy suppressed HIV replication as well as Truvada when used in combination regimens with various third drugs, but people who switched from Truvada to Descovy saw improvements in their kidney function and bone density. However, it is not yet clear whether these relatively small improvements will lead to clinical benefits such as reduced risk of bone fractures. David Evans, director of re-

search advocacy at Project Inform, suggested that TAF-containing regimens may be most beneficial for older people and others at increased risk for kidney disease. Gilead said that the wholesale price for Descovy will be the same as for Truvada. The company offers patient assistance and copay coupon programs to help uninsured and underinsured individuals pay for their medications. “Descovy has the efficacy of Truvada with less kidney and bone toxicity, if any,” Gallant told the B.A.R. “Since there is no difference in price, it makes sense for people now taking Truvada to switch to Descovy, just as Genvoya is replacing Stribild and Odefsey is replacing Complera.”

Descovy not for PrEP

Descovy was not approved for PrEP, and TAF has not yet been adequately studied for HIV prevention. Daily Truvada – which reduces the risk of HIV infection by 90 percent or more when taken consistently – remains the only FDA-approved PrEP regimen. “Emtricitabine and TAF is not known to work for PrEP, and may work poorly because of low penetration of the drug into rectal and vaginal tissues,” Dr. Robert Grant from the UCSF Gladstone Institutes

told the B.A.R. “Emtricitabine and TDF is quite safe for PrEP and is known to work when used.” In an animal study presented at CROI, none of the six monkeys pretreated with TAF and emtricitabine were infected when rectally exposed multiple times to an HIV-like virus, while all monkeys given a placebo became infected after one to 10 exposures. But a human study presented at the same meeting found that tenofovir levels in women’s rectal and vaginal tissue were lower with TAF than with TDF. Levels were about two-fold lower in female genital tissue and tenfold lower in rectal tissue samples. Investigators with both studies emphasized that TAF should not be used for PrEP until human HIV prevention trials are completed. Although doctors can prescribe Descovy “off-label” for non-approved uses, advocates sounded the same note of caution about substituting it for Truvada for PrEP. “Descovy as PrEP is a data-free zone and we should not make any assumptions,” said Pickett. “Individuals and providers should not use Descovy for PrEP until – if and when – we get positive results from human trials, which are in the early planning stages right now.”t

Some parents protest Acceptance Week at San Ramon middle school by Heather Cassell

ome parents at a San Ramon middle school are protesting a student-led LGBTQ Acceptance Week and accompanying curriculum, but the school district and principal are standing by the students. “I feel pretty strongly that this is the right thing to do,” Dave Bolin, principal of Windemere Ranch Middle School, told the Contra Costa Times. “I feel this is important enough for the safety of our most vulnerable students to have that discussion.” The program will commence as planned. Students plan to learn about LGBT issues as a part of their student leadership program April 11-15. The program provides peerled “character education” lessons to fellow students throughout the year, wrote Elizabeth Graswich, who works in communications and community relations at the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, which includes Windemere Middle School, in a statement to the Bay Area Reporter. The program includes videos of LGBTQ pre-teens about the same age as the middle school students, who range from 11 to 13 years old, and multiple discussions. The week will culminate next Friday with observance of the “Day of Silence,” an international event organized by the national Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network that calls attention to name-calling, bullying, and harassment experienced by LGBTQ youth. This is the second year student leaders at the middle school, which has 1,250 students, have created a

Gay TV series

From page 3

think, in a similar way as these local fights continue to brew in places like North Carolina and Indiana, the timing of this is going to be very, very useful.” North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory recently signed into law a bill barring transgender people from using restrooms that don’t match their birth gender. It also blocks other protections for LGBTs in the state.

presentation discussing LGBTQ issues as a part of a student leadership program, said Graswich. Currently, there are two high schools – Monte Vista and San Ramon Valley High Schools – and one middle school, Charlotte Middle School, in the area that have registered gay-straight alliances, according to Geoffrey Winder, coexecutive director of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. There are 105 registered GSAs overall in California; of those registered schools, 36 are middle schools, he said. The Windemere Ranch Middle School program didn’t cause as much of a stir last year as it has this year, according to Graswich’s staff in a statement to the B.A.R., and it’s unclear as to what the difference is this year. Ben Barr, executive director of the Rainbow Community Center, the LGBT community center in Contra Costa County, told the B.A.R. that a conservative group in Sacramento, the Pacific Justice Institute, has been stirring up anti-LGBT sentiment among communities. The group, which works toward religious freedom, parents’ rights, and other civil liberties, according to the website’s tag line, was active last year during a similar LGBT school curriculum debate in Lafayette. The language in the petition was similar, said Barr.

Some parents are upset over “Acceptance Week” studies that will take place next week at Windemere Ranch Middle School.

This year a small group of parents in the wealthy, more conservative East Bay community are protesting the LGBT-friendly curriculum. The group of parents was vocal at the

meeting held to review the revised curriculum, which had already been altered based on parental suggestions from the lesson plans sent to them last month. At the meeting the group of parents presented a petition with an estimated 600 signatures, according to Graswich and Barr, a queer man. The petition claimed that the LGBT curriculum is a plan to “indoctrinate children” and “humiliate” students and families whose faiths don’t agree with the LGBT campaign, among other assertions, according to media reports. It also requested the LGBT lessons be limited to a single day. Some of the parents felt that the issue wasn’t “age appropriate” and would be best dealt with at home. “Not age appropriate at all. We felt it’s a subject better addressed by parents at home,” parent John Rocha told ABC 7 News. Additionally, parents opposed to the LGBTQ educational week also threatened a student walkout April 11, the day lessons are scheduled to begin, if their requested changes are

Last year, Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed into law legislation that legalized discrimination against LGBTs. That law was eventually amended. Actor Guy Pearce, known for films including The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Memento, will portray the older Jones. Austin McKenzie, who’s appeared in the play Spring Awakening, is playing the younger Jones. Chung, 51, is being portrayed by a trans actress she declined to name

because “I’m not sure if I’m supposed to disclose that information.” She said that she wants viewers to remember that “For every single character they portray, there are a lot more that they are not able to fit into the story line. ... They have only a total of eight hours to tell the stories.” In an email, Ken Jones, 65, said, “I would hope that [if] there is one child in little town America who only knows that they feel ‘different’ than their peers and siblings; who experiences the isolation, loneli-

Parents protest

Not all parents are opposed to their kids educating each other about LGBT issues. Barr and Tawny Porter, director of health promotion, education, and community engagement at RCC, said the petition numbers were low. Jennifer Ottley, whose daughter was one of the students instrumental in creating the LGBTQ Acceptance Week, told ABC 7 News it was in response to concerns about kids saying “you’re so gay,” and “that’s so gay,” around school. Another parent, Karmina Delaney, told the news station that she thought it was “just a good way to inform the kids of certain, you know, current issues.” It’s responses like these from parents that make Porter, a 26-year-old ally, believe the majority of people in San Ramon support LGBT education in their schools. “I think that a majority of people

support this kind of education, even in middle school,” said Porter. “That’s a big deal.” The LGBT organizations don’t have plans to reach out to the school district to offer support, but they are there to help if they are invited, the community leaders said. In spite of having a contract for LGBT education with Contra Costa County, Barr said that the San Ramon school district has its own diversity education plans, including LGBT cultural sensitivity. Winder said that GSA Network doesn’t take action until it is contacted by a student, teacher, or school district. However, both Barr and Winder, whose organizations are both actively involved with LGBT education in school administrations and government, applauded the actions of the students and the school’s proactive approach to the issue. “Bullying and harassment, especially LGBT bias, is really high in middle schools. Middle schools are one of the most critical places around identity building and bullying,” said Winder, 33, who identifies as queer. He was “pleased that young people are leading the effort to have these conversations with their peers” and felt it was appropriate for them to mitigate bullying and antigay bias among their peers, “given their experiences in school.” Added Barr, “Queer issues are a part of their world and they are having the conversations whether it’s in the classroom or in the hallway and it needs to be supported. That’s the new frontier, dealing with gender and sexual orientation in middle school.”t

ness” and feeling “shut down ... that they might hear a word to be encouraged to boldly own their difference and step out in that bold difference to make this a better world; and, not only for those who are with us now, but, for all those who will walk these paths in the future.” The Castro has been used by several LGBT-related movie and television film crews in recent years. Whole swaths of the neighborhood were decorated to recall the early 1970s for Milk in January 2008. More

recently HBO’s Looking, about the modern-day lives of three gay men living in San Francisco, filmed inside various businesses in the gayborhood and at nearby Dolores Park, as did Netflix series Sense 8, which also utilized the 2014 Dyke March to film scenes involving the show’s lesbian and transgender female couple. Fata said people associated with When We Rise are scheduled to appear Thursday, April 7 at the regular meeting of the Castro Merchants business group.t

not made, according to media reports. Parents already have the right to opt their children out from any of the peer-led educational curriculum or other sensitive curriculum, such as sex education, per the school district and the school’s policy. The B.A.R. attempted to locate the petition on Change.org, where it was reportedly generated, but only found a petition from the Pleasanton Middle School GSA Club in support of its peers in San Ramon. The B.A.R. also attempted to locate the proposed curriculum, but was unable to obtain a copy due to the school being out on spring break.

Parents back the school and their kids

Community News>>

Cop texts prompt call for AG probe by Seth Hemmelgarn

has engaged in a pattern or practice of conduct ew allegations that a that deprives” people of handful of San Frantheir civil rights, Adachi cisco police officers allegwrote to Harris. edly sent racist and homoIn an email to the Bay phobic text messages have Area Reporter, Rachele prompted Public Defender Huennekens, Harris’ Jeff Adachi to ask state Atpress secretary, said the Rick Gerharter torney General Kamala agency is reviewing AdaHarris to investigate the chi’s letter. San Francisco police department. Sergeant Michael AnPolice Chief The city’s latest law en- Greg Suhr draychak, a police spokesforcement scandal has genman, said in an email that erated a flurry of public statements if Harris “initiates an audit of the and terse letters from officials as SFPD, we will cooperate fully with they denounce apparent bias in the that review.” police force and work to determine He said, “The department is alwhether cases making their way ready fully cooperating” with an through the local criminal justice audit by the U.S. Department of system have been corrupted. Justice’s Community Oriented PoThe texts, which follow allegalicing Services branch. tions that several other officers Gascón said in an interview that exchanged similar messages years he supports Adachi’s call for Harris ago, emerged as the result of an to investigate the SFPD. investigation of an officer who was Among other reasons, the DA accused last year of sexually assaultcited what he describes as opposiing a woman. tion by police officials to the Blue Among other problems, the poRibbon Panel on Transparency, lice department has also been emAccountability and Fairness in Law broiled in controversy after officers Enforcement he launched last year. fatally shot Mario Woods, an Afri“If we want to have the authority can-American man, in December. of the law to look into these issues, I In a letter to Harris Monday, cannot do it. It’s only the [state] atAdachi noted that District Attorney torney general’s office or the U.S. atGeorge Gascón last week revealed torney general” that can, Gascón said. the existence of the latest texts, which include dozens of uses of the SFPD speaks out N-word and “homophobic slurs.” In a new release last week, police Adachi also cited data showing disspokespeople said Chief Greg Suhr’s parate treatment of minorities, es“been clear on his position” that pecially African-Americans, by the anyone who’s capable of “sending police department. and exchanging racist and/or ho“As attorney general, your agency mophobic text messages ... clearly is empowered and has the sole aufalls below the minimum standard thority to conduct a formal invesfor being a San Francisco police oftigation to determine whether the ficer” and he “wants to reassure the San Francisco Police Department See page 29 >>

Brown signs landmark CA minimum wage law

Dave Crane/Southern California News Group

Governor Jerry Brown signs SB 3, the minimum wage law, Monday in Los Angeles.

by Sari Staver

alifornia Governor Jerry Brown this week signed landmark legislation that makes California the first state in the nation to commit to raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour statewide by 2022. Senate Bill 3, authored by gay state Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco), Senate President pro Tem Kevin de León (D-Los Angeles) and Senator Connie M. Leyva (D-Chino), raises the minimum to $10.50 per hour on January 1, 2017 for businesses with 26 or more workers and then it rises each year until reaching $15 per hour in 2022. Small businesses – those with 25 or fewer workers – will be given additional time to phase in the increases.

“This is about economic justice, it’s about people,” Brown (D) said in a statement after he signed the bill in Los Angeles Monday, April 4. “This is an important day, it’s not the end of the struggle but it’s a very important step forward.” The purpose of the plan is to increase the minimum wage over time, consistent with economic expansion, while providing “safety valves” to pause wage hikes if negative economic or budgetary conditions emerge, according to a news release by the governor’s office. Once the minimum wage reaches $15 per hour for all businesses, wages could then be increased each year up to 3.5 percent (rounded to See page 29 >>

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 23

<< Travel

24 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Fun, friendships keep gays returning to Palm Springs by Ed Walsh

man I met at the gay Desert Paradise resort in Palm Springs last month best summarized why so many LGBTs return to the desert city every year and sometimes several times a year. “I’ve met people here, made friends and I go back to see them in their hometown,” he said. “It’s rare that you don’t meet someone here and not get invited out to dinner. I met someone today and we’ve been talking nonstop for hours. This wouldn’t happen in a straight resort. And no one is here for the bathhouse scene, which is what I really like.” Earlier in the week, while staying at the Bearfoot Inn, I met a man from Long Beach, California and another guy from Washington, D.C. and we spent over an hour talking as we were wading in the pool. Unlike most of our everyday lives, the resorts provide an environment where you can assume everyone is gay unless they tell you otherwise.

Ed Walsh

The Desert Paradise Resort features impeccable landscaping outside, while its rooms are themed to gay icons like Madonna.

Palm Springs has two-dozen gay resorts, more than any other place in the world. The hotels run the range from ones that are very cruisy to others that are more couple oriented and one, Casitas Laquita, that is marketed to lesbians. Palm Springs’ biggest gay week-

end is this weekend. White Party Palm Springs runs through Monday and justifiably calls itself the world’s premier gay dance festival. Lesbians had their turn last weekend with The Dinah, the largest “girl party” music festival in the world. This is the busiest time of year for Palm Springs, but summers are becoming increasingly popular. The city’s gay business organization, Desert Gay Tourism Guild, runs the Summer Splash program (http:// palmspringssummersplash.com) every year, offering discounts on hotels, restaurants, and attractions from June to September. And visitors shouldn’t be afraid of the heat. The resorts have misting systems, making sunbathing tolerable even in the 100-plus temperatures. Palm Springs also enjoys an early sunset when the sun sinks below the mountains to the west, leaving the city in cooling shade for about 90 minutes before the sun finally dips below the horizon.

The sights

Share-worthy Views o f t h e C i t y a n d B ay

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Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours and Events (http://red-jeep.com/) offers a number of tours of Palm Springs and the surrounding area and one of the best is an LGBT-focused tour that covers the standard things you will find on a mainstream tour plus the LGBT stuff that you won’t find on the other tours, including the city’s early lesbian pioneers and the relatively recent evolution of the city’s gayborhood on Arenas Road. To visit Palm Springs without riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (http://www.pstramway.com) is a little like visiting Egypt and not seeing the pyramids. It is deservedly one of the area’s biggest attractions. The rotating tram whisks riders through four seasons in just 10 minutes. It allows winter visitors to sun themselves in 80-degree weather by the pool and play in the snow all in the same afternoon. During the summer, while it could be over 110 degrees in city, the summit will be in the comfortable low-80s. The Joshua Tree National Monument (http://www.nps.gov/jotr) is about a 45-minute drive outside Palm Springs and is a stunning collection of rock formations, wildflowers and Joshua trees. Among the world’s oldest living things, Joshua trees can survive for up to 1,000 years, although the typical tree lives for 150 to 200 years. You won’t see the trees in Palm Springs itself. The tortuously twisted, spiky trees grow only in the high desert and grow by only about a half-inch a year. The Indian Canyons (http:// www.indian-canyons.com) are about 20 minutes outside downtown Palm Springs and showcase groves of palm trees along a desert oasis. Murray Canyon is the most popular of the Indian Canyons and it offers a good history lesson on the lives of Native Americans. Be sure to

Travel>>

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 25

Ed Walsh

Palm Springs lesbian City Councilwoman Ginny Foat hands out free cupcakes during the 25th anniversary celebration of the VillageFest street fair March 17.

check out the grinding holes to the right of the parking lot, they are evidence of the generations of the first human inhabitants of the area. If you are in town on a Thursday night, be sure to check out the city’s weekly street fair, Villagefest (http:// villagefest.org/), which takes over Palm Canyon Drive in the heart of downtown. The street is packed with local artisans peddling their work, food, and street musicians. The Thursday night event celebrated its 25th anniversary last month with a cupcake giveaway and a concert by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The city is in the midst of a makeover in its downtown along Palm Canyon Drive that will show off the Palm Springs Art Museum (http:// www.psmuseum.org). Palm Canyon Drive is downtown’s main drag, but the museum right now is somewhat hidden a block to the west, so many of the tourists who walk up and down the street miss it. The Museum Plaza development will feature an open plaza from Palm Canyon Drive to the museum that will be lined with shops and restaurants. A brand new 155-room Kimpton Hotel is scheduled to open there by the end of this year and Virgin Hotels announced earlier this year that

it will built a 150-room hotel on the plaza that would open in 2018. It’s very easy to get around Palm Springs. The city has no parking meters and traffic jams are rare. It got even easier a little over a year ago when the city inaugurated a free bus service, Palm Springs Buzz (http:// new.buzzps.com), which runs every 15 minutes, Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. The service runs from Via Escuela, north of downtown where Toucans and the WorkOUT (http://www.workoutgymps.com/) gym are located, south to the Smoke Tree Shopping Center.

Accommodations

The biggest concentration of gay resorts is in the Warm Sands neighborhood, about a half-mile from downtown. There is another small cluster of gay resorts south of Warm Sands along San Lorenzo Road and a few more north of downtown. There is just one gay resort left in neighboring Cathedral City and it is also the largest of the gay resorts, sitting on 3.5 acres. The Cathedral City Boys Club (http://www.ccbcresorthotel.com) is open 24 hours for day and night passes. Almost all of the resorts include a free continental breakfast (the excep-

tion is All Worlds) and all have free Wi-Fi. Some have a free cocktail hour social and a few offer a free lunch. All are clothing-optional except for the East Canyon Hotel and Spa and Casitas Laquita. Three of the resorts – Vista Grande, InnDulge, and Bearfoot Inn – offer free passes to the WorkOUT Gym, a small but wellappointed facility that unabashedly promotes itself as a gay men’s gym. The aforementioned Desert Paradise Resort (http://www.desertparadise.com) is a good example of a property that keeps people coming back to Palm Springs year after year. Known for its signature outdoor candelabra that hangs between two palm trees, each of the rooms in the 12-unit property is themed for gay icons from the Madonna room to the Liz Taylor bridal suite. The impeccably maintained landscaping in the hotel is like a work of art dotted with fountains and a couple of koi ponds. It also has wet and dry saunas. The Bearfoot Inn (http://bearfootinn.com/) is Palm Springs’ newest gay hotel. As its name implies, it markets itself to bears but everyone is welcome. Many of the rooms have kitchens and private back patios. The hotel owners spared no expense when they renovated the hotel after purchasing it three years ago. It used to be the straight clothing-optional resort. The hotel is within easy walking distance of downtown and a block from Palm Canyon Drive. Guests get a welcoming gift of snacks in the room on the first night. The lesbian resort, Casitas Laquita (http://www.casitaslaquita. com) is an upscale resort with a Southwestern theme. All the rooms have kitchens. One of the hotel’s suites has a private backyard and hot tub. The hotel hosts a number of women-focused events and has a wine cellar basement that is used for special events and as an entertainment venue. The Hacienda at Warm Sands (http://www.thehacienda.com/) is See page 29 >>

YOU’LL FALL head over HEALDSBURG

In the famed Sonoma County wine country. Local hospitality meets San Francisco chic. Bakeries, bistros, tasting rooms and 5-star restaurants. Stylish boutiques, art galleries and antique shops. Picnic baskets brimming with local farmers’ market delicacies. www.healdsburg.com

Taste the wine country the way Northern Californians do. And like everyone who visits, you’ll fall head over Healdsburg.

<< Community News

t Parks group seeks volunteers for Earth Day event 26 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

compiled by Cynthia Laird

he California State Parks Foundation will hold its 18th annual Earth Day Restoration and Cleanup event Saturday, April 16 and is seeking volunteers. Cleanups take place

at 27 state parks across the state, and more than 3,000 people are needed, officials said. “We are proud to host this meaningful Earth Day event 18 years running,” Elizabeth Goldstein, president of the parks foundation, said

in a news release. “Our annual event provides Californians across the state a great opportunity to honor the Earth Day tradition with real service, not lip service.” The cleanup takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Locally, some of the participating state parks are Angel Island State Park, Benicia State Recreation Area, Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, Half Moon Bay State Beach, Mt. Diablo State Park, and Sonoma Coast State Beach. To volunteer, visit www.calparks. org/earthday or call 1-888-98PARKS. Space is limited so advance registration is required. Parking fees are waived for Earth Day volunteers. The cleanup event is presented by PG&E. Other sponsors include the Nature Conservancy, Subway restaurants, Edison International, Oracle, Goldman Sachs, Southern California Gas Company, and Microsoft. Earth Day itself is observed April 22.

McDonald to speak at AHP event

Resource Guide to San Francisco's LGBT nonprofit service providers, arts and athletic groups Includes: events calendar & recent photos

Connect - Volunteer - Donate Keep the Good Work Going !

CeCe McDonald, a formerly incarcerated African-American trans woman, will appear in conversation with Re/code senior editor Ina Fried at a fundraiser for the UCSF Alliance Health Project Thursday, April 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Twitter Building, 1355 Market Street in San Francisco. McDonald was sent to prison for fatally stabbing a man who had attacked her and her friends several years ago. She was released in early 2014 after serving 19 months. During her talk, McDonald will discuss trans inclusion and the intersectionality of identity, as well as social justice issues, with Fried, who is also a trans woman. Admission is free but this is an RSVP-only event. To register, visit http://tinyurl.com/hk8fcmv. (IDs do not have to reflect gender expression or name preference.)

SF looking for bus rapid transit committee members

The San Francisco County Transportation Authority is looking for people to serve on its Geary Corridor Bus Rapid Transit Citizens Advisory Committee, or GCAC. The GCAC consists of 11 members, representing corridor and at-large interests, and meets every two months to advise the authority throughout the environmental analysis for the Geary Corridor BRT project. There are currently two vacancies on the GCAC, one for a representative of the Richmond district and one for an at-large representative. GCAC members are expected to attend all meetings, which are open to the public. For more information and to download an application, visit http://www.sfcta.org/geary-corridor-bus-rapid-transit-citizensadvisory-committee. The deadline is Friday, April 8.

Comments sought on SF LGBT historic site demolition

The planning department is inviting the public to comment on a major Market Street redevelopment project that would see the demolition of buildings with ties to San Francisco’s LGBT history. As the Bay Area Reporter noted in a February article, San Francisco-based real estate development company Group I wants to replace the existing buildings at 950-974 Market Street with a 232-room hotel, 242 housing units, ground floor retail, and an 82-space parking garage.

National Park Service

Angel Island’s Point Blunt features a Nike missile launch site that was located near the tower, visible in center.

The plan has caught the attention of LGBT historians because the Tenderloin’s first gay bars were once located there. As detailed in the Citywide Historic Context Statement for LGBTQ History in San Francisco, the Old Crow Bar opened at 962 Market Street around 1935 while the Silver Rail opened at 974 Market Street about 1942. Additionally, the Flagg Brothers shoe store that had occupied 950 Market Street was documented in the report as a well-known gay cruising spot. Shayne Watson, a co-author of the historical report, appealed the initial environmental review of the project due to the omission of the site’s LGBT ties. The planning department is now conducting a new environmental review that will look at the LGBT historical significance of the triangular block at Market, Turk and Mason streets. The public can weigh in on the proposed project and its impacts by Wednesday, April 13. Email comments to planner Melinda Hue at Melinda.Hue@sfgov. org. The project’s case number is 2013.1049E.

Santa Clara County seeking LGBTQ rep for panel

Gay Santa Clara County Supervisor Ken Yeager has announced that the county’s Senior Care Commission is currently seeking to fill a vacancy for an at-large representative of the LGBTQ community. The appointee will serve the remainder of a three-year term ending June 30. In his newsletter, Yeager said it’s a great opportunity to serve for an LGBTQ senior or a resident of any age who can provide a critical perspective on the unique needs and disparities faced by seniors in the LGBTQ community. The panel works to assess existing services for seniors by identifying and addressing areas of unmet needs and fostering programs that promote independence, good health, and quality of life for persons over 60. Through its various committees, the commission seeks to expand community awareness and education, participate in concerns involving the quality of care or lack of it, and advocate for senior legislation in collaboration with the Board of Supervisors. It meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. at the County Government Center in San Jose. For more information on the panel, visit https://www.sccgov. org/sites/ssa/commissions/Pages/ seniorcare.aspx. Interested people should contact Yeager’s chief of staff, Jim Weston, at (408) 299-5040 or jim.weston@bos.sccgov.org.

Supes approve gender-neutral bathrooms

San Francisco supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday, April 5 to require local businesses and cityowned properties to make all one-

person bathrooms gender neutral. Gay Supervisor David Campos, who proposed the change, recently said that his “common-sense piece of legislation” should have happened “many, many years ago.” Besides transgender people, “This bill will benefit many people in our community,” Campos said, including parents with opposite-sex children, and seniors and people with disabilities who have oppositegender caretakers. Trans people and others have faced harassment and threats in restrooms, and Campos said people “often think twice before they go to the bathroom. ... Going to the bathroom should not put anyone in danger.” Other municipalities already have such legislation, but Campos has said San Francisco’s would be unique because it would include an enforcement mechanism through the city’s Human Rights Commission and Department of Building Inspection. Theresa Sparks, a transgender woman who serves as executive director of the city’s Human Rights Commission, has said, “This is a very important bill for many communities.” A second and final vote on the legislation is expected soon.

Applications open for arts scholarships

Beach Blanket Babylon, one of the city’s popular entertainment shows, is now accepting applications for its Scholarship for the Arts. The scholarships are open to all Bay Area high school seniors, and ask students to submit an entry form and a threeminute video showcasing their talent in one of three categories: singing, dancing, or acting. Officials said that nine finalists – three from each category – will be chosen and will get to perform their three-minute piece live at Club Fugazi, the home of Beach Blanket Babylon. This year, to keep up with the rising cost of tuition, Beach Blanket Babylon producer Jo Schuman Silver has announced that they will be raising each of the three scholarships from $10,000 to $15,000. For more information, visit https://beachblanketbabylon.com/ scholarships/. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 29.

Applications open for young leaders scholarships

The Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship Program is now accepting applications from students interested in applying for the Fall 2016/Spring 2017 scholarships. The Zamora scholarships is a program of the National AIDS Memorial Grove and recognizes, supports, and encourages the educational efforts of young people committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS. The scholarships are named in honor of Zamora, an AIDS educator and television personality who See page 30 >>

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<< Sports

28 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

USF’s Azzi comes out by Roger Brigham

hen she played point guard for the Stanford women’s basketball team, Jennifer Azzi was transformative, leading the team to its first NCAA Division I title her senior year. After graduating she was an inspirational leader for the entire sport, winning a gold medal in the 1996 Summer Olympics and becoming a co-founder of the nowdefunct American Basketball League that same year. After a lengthy career in the Women’s National Basketball Association after the collapse of the ABL, Azzi became the hope for the future at the University of San Francisco, where she became the Jesuit school’s women’s basketball coach in 2010 and this year led the Dons to a 70-68 upset victory over Brigham Young University in the WCC tournament to land a berth in the NCAA tournament. Last month, Azzi, 47, began a new chapter of her life with her announcement that she is gay and was married to her principal assistant, Blair Hardiek, in August, surprising a March 31 crowd with the revelation at the Fairmont Hotel while introducing Golden State Warriors President Rick Welts at the Anti-Defamation League’s Torch of Liberty Award ceremony. Welts is the highest-ranking openly gay NBA official, and Azzi said he had been an inspiration be-

hind her decision to come out. “I, too, lived a long time not being 100 percent honest,” Azzi told the audience. “Kind of the don’t ask, don’t tell kind of thing. And it’s so stupid. I don’t know why we do that, but we do that. I’m a college coach. Is it going to hurt me with recruiting? What are people going to think? And you are constantly worrying about those things. What I realized in watching Rick in his path and his journey is that there is nothing more powerful than living the truth. And the best thing I can do for my team is be authentic and true to myself.” Although there are no doubt many lesbian head coaches in the NCAA ranks, Azzi is currently the only one out at the Division I level. Sherri Murrell was the first openly gay Division I coach but was fired by Portland State in 2015. Azzi signed a five-year contract extension in July. USF athletic director Scott Sidwell told the San Jose Mercury News, “We have a commitment to Jennifer. We’re going to respect the dignity of each person.”

Low funding, registrations killed Outgames

Low registration numbers and withdrawn funding were the principal reasons the 2016 North American Outgames were canceled, according to St. Louis organizers. “Confirmed registrations were

much lower than ‘soft’ pre-registrations had indicated,” Todd Ackerman, a managing partner for St. Louis Equality Games who has been functioning as treasurer, told the Bay Area Reporter. “When we entered into the planning process initially, we received levels of interest that were very positive, but then as we got closer to the games we had some folks pull from their funding commitments. That really inhibited us in terms of advertising.” The third edition of the North America Outgames was scheduled to begin May 29. The decision to cancel the event was announced on the event’s website March 29. “We’re incredibly disappointed,” Ackerman said. “We had great support from the city of St. Louis, which donated most of the sports venues. We had some great topics for our conference and some wonderful cultural events. But when the funding started to pull back we could not in all good conscious continue.” Ackerman said after roughly 500 people had pre-registered, the number of actual registrants at the time the decision was made last week to cancel the games was less than 250. Organizers had originally project attendance of 5,000 when the games were first awarded. Ackerman said paid registrants are being contacted and asked if they want their fees refunded or turned into a donation. Greg Larocque, president of sanctioning body Gay and Lesbian In-

University of San Francisco women’s basketball coach Jennifer Azzi

ternational Sport Association North America, told KWMU, “There’s something in my community called ‘last minute-itis – people who will wait for the last minute to register for anything. These are not people who buy box seats at the symphony; they’ll wait until the program is announced and then they’ll buy.”

company calls a “legends series.” Louganis was recently the subject of an Emmy-nominated documentary, and a petition had been started online asking Wheaties to put him on the cereal box. The company denied those were factors in deciding to recognize Louganis. This was “not about who gets the most votes or who gets petitions,” Mike Siemienas, General Mills manager of brand media relations, said. “We look at a wide array of what they accomplished on the field of play and what they do in their communities.” The boxes showing Louganis are expected to be on store shelves starting in May and through the summer.

Suing for equal pay

Decades after his dominance at the Summer Olympics in diving, Greg Louganis will have his image on boxes of Wheaties, “the Breakfast of Champions.” He will be the first openly gay and HIV-positive star on the box, which has been used to recognize outstanding athletes through the years. Louganis, hurdler Edwin Moses, and swimmer Janet Evans are three Olympians Wheaties will have on its packaging as part of what the cereal

Five members of the U.S. women’s national soccer team have filed a federal lawsuit to force soccer’s governing body to pay them as much as it pays men. The players – Carli Lloyd, Alex Morgan, Hope Solo, Megan Rapinoe and Becky Sauerbrunn – contend they are paid a fraction of what the men are paid despite their greater success in the Olympics and World Cups. “It’s the Women’s National Team that has shattered all the records for viewership, that is putting more fans in the stands,” said attorney Hampton Dellinger. “I think there’s a very good argument that the women’s team are really subsidizing the men’s team.”t

to Los Angeles before settling in San Francisco in 1969 and living in the Tenderloin. Don’s top hobby was tattoos and his body was covered with them. He was a big fan of the Coast to Coast radio show and knew all about angels, UFOs, Planet X, aliens, and Bigfoot. Don took pleasure in plants and flowers and considered himself a botanist. He savored visits to the arboretum/botanical gardens. Don enjoyed seeing movies and his favorite theater was

the AMC 1000. His favorite character of all time was Pee Wee Herman and he had several Pee Wee Herman items. He was fond of classical music and loved Mozart and Beethoven and could identify many of their pieces by hearing them. Don passed away from cancer on September 8, 2015. Don’s friends prefer to think he is in heaven in a garden enjoying meat loaf, mashed potatoes, and flan with his friends who passed before him.

Louganis on Wheaties box

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Community News>>

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 29

SF board declares homeless emergency by Seth Hemmelgarn

majority of San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors Tuesday passed gay Supervisor David Campos’ legislation declaring a state of emergency on homelessness. In a statement following the 8-3 vote, which would be enough to override a veto by Mayor Ed Lee, a spokeswoman for Campos said, “This ordinance allows the city to invoke a rarely-used provision in state law usually reserved for floods and earthquakes that enables the city to declare a shelter crisis. The legislation will allow the city to circumvent red tape” and “shorten the process” for quickly turning sites

B.A.R. marks 45 years

From page 3

nections to and knowledge of the community are the backbone of our success. Also, I think it speaks to the vibrancy and resilience of our community through all the ups and downs, all the good times and bad times, it’s not been an easy struggle.” He said that among other challenges ahead, more attention needs to be paid to “the aging LGBT community, and all the infrastructure that will provide for affordable, safe, and sensitive housing and services

Travel

From page 25

one of Palm Springs’ most luxurious properties, providing guests with a number of high-end amenities including a pillow menu and a free catered lunch. The resort is popular with couples and anyone who appreciates being pampered.

Nightlife

The biggest concentration of gay nightclubs is in downtown Palm Springs on Arenas Road, just east of Indian Canyon Drive. The newest club there, Chill (http://chillbarpalmsprings.com/), has only been open for a little more than a year but has already drawn a loyal following. The spacious bar connects with a second bar, the Scorpion Room, that is popu-

Minimum wage

From page 23

the nearest 10 cents) for inflation as measured by the national Consumer Price Index, said the statement. The law does not directly impact companies or workers in San Francisco, where Proposition J, approved in November 2014, approved a $15 minimum wage by July 2018. Currently, the minimum wage in San Francisco is $12.15 per hour and increases to $13 in July. California’s current minimum wage is $10 per hour. The federal minimum wage is currently $7.25 per hour.

Cop texts

From page 23

public that upon discovery of these text messages, the department took immediate action in removing the officers from public contact, bringing charges before the police commission and notifying the district attorney’s office so that they could take appropriate steps in reviewing criminal case files.” Lai, the officer whose case spawned the latest texting allegations, hasn’t been charged with sexual assault, but he is facing six misdemeanor counts of unlawfully accessing or using criminal and DMV data. Gascón said, “We’ve only scratched the surface” of the documents his office has received from police. On top of the approximate 5,000 pages prosecutors initially got, about 20,000

into shelter spaces. favor of the legislation at Campos stated, “This a hearing in March, where legislation is a tool that Campos called San Franwill help us more nimbly cisco “arguably the wealthrespond to homelessiest city in the country,” ness. It will help us more with “more billionaires quickly put together that most countries.” temporary shelters, such Lee, representing the as Navigation Centers, executive branch, “has Rick Gerharter to address the specific failed to do what needs to issues of encampments Supervisor be done,” Campos said, and people living in our David Campos so the legislative branch streets.” has to act. The Navigation Center in the Lyn Rawles, 50, a formerly homeMission, which allows people to less transgender woman who spoke at bring their belongings and pets and the March hearing, said, “This is a dire stay with their partners, has won situation. ... I see a lot of good people wide praise. out on the street who’re homeless. Dozens of people had spoken in They really want to kill themselves.”

Gay Supervisor Scott Wiener, who’s running against Supervisor Jane Kim for the sate Senate, joined Supervisors Mark Farrell and Katy Tang in voting against Campos’ proposal. In an email after the vote, Wiener said, “San Francisco is undisputedly in the midst of a crisis on our streets,” but he called the legislation “meaningless and toothless.” “If I thought this legislation would do a thing – even something minor – to improve the situation on our streets, I would have voted for it in a heartbeat,” he said. The legislation is only “political grandstanding and misleads the public into thinking that the author is ‘doing something’ to address the crisis on our streets.”

Among other problems, Wiener said, the legislation doesn’t bring “one dime of funding,” and despite Campos’ initial statement that it would “cut through red tape,” the legislation was amended “to specifically contradict his stated goal of expediting these facilities, by stating that the legislation doesn’t avoid any city process or requirement.” He added, “We must address the crisis on our street decisively and with real solutions – more permanent housing, a mental health facility and other mental health services, and so forth. This legislation simply does nothing to achieve any of these things, and as a result I voted against it.”t

for our aging population.” Another goal is “to cover the full spectrum of what life is like for our community,” Yamashita said. As with most LGBT publications, he said the B.A.R.’s had to “overcome the perception that we are geared toward a very narrow readership, which is white gay men, when in fact, we try very hard to allow the news to dictate our coverage. We go out of our way to make sure everyone, including minorities” and people of different age groups are included, as well as “people of different experiences who identify with our community.”

In an email, Tiffany Woods, the program manager for transgender services at Tri-City Health Center in Fremont, said, “I picked up my first B.A.R. in 1990 after being out as a trans woman for six months.” Since then, Woods said, “We both have come a long way,” and the paper “has chronicled the LGBTQ community’s quest for equal rights, civil rights, dignity, and inclusion; the victories, losses, immense tragedies and jubilations, while always telling the stories of those who lived them, made them happen, the people most affected by the events and decisions.”

Among other things, she commended the paper’s coverage of the East Bay and of trans issues, including the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance in Oakland. However, Woods said she’d like to see a dedicated East Bay section, as well as more opinion pieces from community leaders in the region. Asked about why the B.A.R. is still needed, Yamashita said, “Mainstream news outlets do certainly carry gay news, but that will never be a substitute for local gay community newspapers covering their own community. ... As long as there are people in the world who choose to

hate, discriminate, outlaw or kill us as a matter of opinion or policy, we will be here, but not only to fight for our rights but also to improve our own community.” That includes keeping politicians “accountable” and ensuring LGBT nonprofits “are run efficiently and are solvent,” he said. John Darby, 89, a gay San Francisco resident who’s been reading the B.A.R. since its debut, echoed Yamashita’s comments. He said he’s still reading it because “I learn things from it that I never learn in the mainstream press. I like to know what’s going on in the gay world.”t

lar with the weekend dance crowd. Hunters Palm Springs (http:// hunterspalmsprings.com/) is the other big bar on Arenas Road. Like Chill, it has a second room that is open weekends for dancing. Score (http://www.facebook.com/ScorePalmSprings) is Arenas Road’s friendly dive bar that opens up at 6 a.m. every day with a very down-toearth crowd. Streetbar (http://www. psstreetbar.com/) is famous for its karaoke and patio that always seems to be overflowing. Spurline (http:// www.spurline.com) is Arenas Road’s video bar, showing classic and new videos nightly with show tunes Monday, Friday, and Saturday nights. The new bar, Tryst (http:// www.facebook.com/Trystpalmsprings/), is around the corner from Arenas Road on Indian Canyon

Drive, next to the Hard Rock Hotel, and is known for its live music. The Polynesian-themed Toucans Tiki Lounge (http://toucanstikilounge.com/) is the lone gay bar on the north end of town. It has a popular dance floor and outdoor smoking patio. The Tool Shed (http://www. toolshed-ps.com/) in Warm Sands is Palm Springs’ Levi/leather/bear bar. There are three gay bars in Cathedral City, just south of Palm Springs. The bars tend to attract more of a local crowd than the Palm Springs establishments. Barracks (http:// www.thebarracksbarps.com/) is the Levi/leather bar on E. Palm Canyon Drive and includes a spacious outdoor patio area. For first timers, Barracks is difficult to find. It is set back off E. Palm Canyon Drive, behind the Arco station. The lounge bar Studio

One 11 (http://www.studio-one-11. com/) has nightly entertainment and draws a loyal mature crowd. Digs (http://www.digsbar.com/) is Cathedral City’s friendly neighborhood bar well-known for karaoke and Sunday late afternoon barbecue. Since the closing of Delilah’s nearly nine years ago, there are no full-time lesbian bars in Palm Springs, but Toucans, Chill, and Hunters are popular with women. Wangs in the Desert (http://www. wangsinthedesert.com) hosts a wildly popular Friday night happy hour gay party. Oscar’s Cafe and Bar (http:// oscarspalmsprings.com/) hosts a very popular Sunday tea dance 4 to 9 p.m.

has good cheap eats if you are on a budget or in a hurry. Pinocchio in the Desert (http://www.pinocchiops. com/) in downtown Palm Springs is one of the gayest and quirkiest in the city, known for its bottomless mimosas and huge portions. Trio (http:// www.triopalmsprings.com) continues to draw a big crowd nightly. Sherman’s Deli and Bakery (http://www. shermansdeli.com/) is known for its delicious cakes and equally tasty food. Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar and Grille (http://www.bongojohnnys. com/) is a surfer-themed casual restaurant on Arenas Road specializing in delicious American and Mexican comfort food.t

Eating out

Palm Springs has some of California’s finest restaurants and also

For more information, visit Palm Springs’ official website at http:// www.visitpalmsprings.com/.

A number of other cities in the Bay Area also have already superseded the new state minimums, including Berkeley, where the minimum wage is set to rise to $15 an hour by 2018. In Oakland, the current minimum wage is $12.55 per hour. “No one who is working full time in California should live in poverty due to a low wage,” Leno said in a statement. “SB 3 respects and rewards work, reduces turnover, and increases productivity and consumer spending, thereby stimulating economic growth while helping low-wage workers end their dependence on public assistance.”

California has the highest poverty rate in the nation, according to Leno. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that nearly a quarter of the state’s 38 million residents live in poverty. An employee working full time earning $10 an hour brings home just over $20,000 annually before taxes, which is just 86 percent of the federal poverty line for a family of four. As a result, many cities have taken the matter into their own hands, raising local minimum wages either by government action or at the ballot box, he said. In the competitive San Francisco job market, some employers have

tried to stay ahead of the curve by paying its workers more than the minimum wage. One such employer is Cole Hardware, a family-owned five-store chain founded in 1959. Owner Rick Karp, son of founder Dave Karp, told the Bay Area Reporter in an interview that it may be difficult to continue paying above the minimum because he also must contribute a $2.53 per hour “tax” to help workers pay for their health insurance, meaning that he will have to pay workers $17.53 per hour by 2018. A supporter of the new legislation, Karp said he hopes that the

additional “purchasing power” workers with increased salaries will have should have a “trickle down” effect and raise his company’s revenues. If it does not, Karp said, he would consider reducing his payroll through attrition. Leno, who founded Budget Signs in 1978, said it was his experience as a “young business owner” that made him aware of the minimum wage issues. Leno, who said he has always paid workers above the minimum wage and provided “full benefits,” said, “As an employer, I couldn’t imagine paying staff less than I would expect for myself.”t

more came in more recently. He said his office is sending “a little over 200 cases” the latest messages could potentially impact to Adachi’s office. “We anticipate there may be many more,” Gascón said. In a March 31 letter to Gascón, Suhr said the DA had had ample opportunity to learn of the messages. Among other things, Suhr said, his department had notified the DA’s office of the text messages’ existence in September, October, November, and January. Police also provided prosecutors “with the information through the Brady notification process,” Suhr said, referring to Brady v. Maryland, a 1963 U.S. Supreme Court case that resulted in prosecutors being required to inform defense attorneys and their clients about potential problems

with police officers’ credibility. “For you to suggest that you discovered the text messages through your own criminal investigation would be disingenuous,” Suhr wrote to Gascón. Asked about the acrimony between him and Suhr, Gascón said, “From my end, there’s no personal animosity here. This is about business.” In a March 31 statement, Adachi said his office would “begin a full review of past cases that may have been tainted by these officers.” The next day, he wrote in a letter to the DA, “In order to evaluate what, if any, legal remedies are available to those individuals whose cases may have been compromised by the officers’ alleged actions,” he was requesting copies of the texts, a “comprehensive list of all arrests

and incidents for the past ten years involving” the officers, and numerous other materials.

sworn San Francisco police officers are involved in ignorant and hatefilled speech. ... San Francisco is a city that embraces and celebrates diversity. I have zero tolerance for anything less, and I want every member of the police department to know that this type of behavior will never be allowed.” Martin Halloran, president of the San Francisco Police Officers Association, said in an interview that the police officials’ alleged behavior was “completely inappropriate” and “appalling.” “The department needs to pursue discipline against those officers,” Halloran said. He noted, “For an association” such as his “to say that is unusual.” Julius Turman, the gay man who serves as vice president of the Police Commission, wasn’t available for comment.t

‘No tolerance’

Lesbian police Captain Teresa Ewins, who heads the Tenderloin police station and serves as president of the Pride Alliance for LGBT officers, said in an email, “I do not know the details of the investigation,” but the cops involved in the texting scandal “do not represent the entire department. We have hard working officers that have no tolerance for this type of way of thinking.” She noted that police employee groups like hers had just met with Mayor Ed Lee. In an April 4 statement, Lee said, “I am outraged and disappointed to learn of yet another incident where

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

30 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

News Briefs

From page 26

died more than 20 years ago from an AIDS-related illness. The scholarship program is funded primarily through grants provided by Wells Fargo, United Healthcare, and AIDS Walk San Francisco. Scholarship applications are being accepted through May 2 and can be downloaded from the grove’s website, http://www.aidsmemorial.org. Scholarships will be awarded in August and range from $2,500 to $5,000.

SF LGBT center

From page 10

Excellence for Transgender Health. All four of the nonprofits will be paying below-market-rate rents for their spaces that will net the center $600,000 annually. “For us, it is very significant. It creates a sustainable source of revenue for the center,” said Rolfe.

More vibrant space

The interior changes, and bringing in the additional local nonprofits to the building, “will create a more vibrant and welcoming environment for the center,” said Roberto Ordeñana, the center’s director of development. As for the interior spaces in the Victorian side, they will be repainted and have new carpeting installed. The only physical change will be the library space off the lobby will house a staff office. The center plans to use portable bookcases for a rolling library that can be set up throughout the building. The main change to the center’s exterior will be a new five-color paint scheme for the Victorian, which has yet to be determined. The center is financing the project with New Market Tax Credits as well as a $10 million loan from Capital One. The center will pay interest on the loan – “at an extremely generous

Lesbian-owned coffeehouse From page 10

a certified green business in Marin County. It’s a member of California Certified Organic Farmers. The coffee company has more than 350 wholesale customers, three Bay Area cafes with three more scheduled to open this year, and the coffee farm in Panama. Equator employs nearly 90 people. “It’s really great, especially with all of the things that are going on within the country, to be able to stand up there and say, ‘Look, this is how business can be run,’” Russell said. After more than two decades in business McDonnell and Russell are really just getting started. This summer is already going to be exciting for the coffee company. Equator is celebrating the oneyear anniversary of its first San Francisco cafe in the Warfield Building on Market Street this month. The store is currently only open weekdays, but starting in May it will be open seven days a week, the women said. Also in May, they kick off a string of cafe openings around the Bay Area. On May 1, Equator will open its third North Bay location in Larkspur, followed by its second San Francisco location in the new LinkedIn building June 1. By the end of the year the company will have a cafe in Oakland, the women told the Bay Area Reporter.

A perfect match

McDonnell and Russell, who will wed in a couple of weeks, met in Palm Springs at the Dinah Shore Weekend in the early 1990s. A few years later they married their two passions creating Equator in their garage in San Rafael, California. It all came together while they were sipping coffee and espresso on the steps of Pioneer Square in Portland at another then-young coffee

The program is open to all current high school seniors, and college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors (ages 27 and under) who demonstrate an active commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS and taking on roles of public service and leadership. Questions can be directed to Matt Kennedy at (415) 765-0446 or mkennedy@aidsmemorial.org.t Matthew S. Bajko and Seth Hemmelgarn contributed to this report.

rate,” said Rolfe – for seven years and then will buy it back for $1,000. The financing arrangement will allow the center to retire its $2.9 million debt from the cost of the initial construction. It also requires the center to form a capital fund subsidiary organization overseen by a five-person board. “We won’t end up with less debt but we will have revenue that will cover our debt,” said Rolfe, “so the building becomes self-sustaining.” As for renaming a space in the center in honor of Sylvester, Cole has yet to decide on a spot. While she is “sad, of course,” the staircase it being removed, she is even more excited about the center’s future. “When we designed the center, we designed it so it could easily change and grow with the community,” said Cole, adding, “so I am not surprised they are remodeling. It is exciting in fact.” The center is celebrating its 14th anniversary this Saturday, April 9 with its annual Soiree, themed Imaginarium: Unleashing the Creative Power of the LGBT Community. While the dinner is sold out, $95 tickets are still available for the 21-and-over party, which begins at 8:30 p.m., online through Friday at www.sfcenter.org/soiree2016. The price increases to $125 at the door. It takes place at Terra Art Gallery, located at 511 Harrison Street.t company. They were taking a break from buying and flipping real estate when the opportunity hit Russell. She turned to McDonnell and said, “You love coffee and I love business. We see this whole coffee thing happening. Why don’t we put together a business plan and open up a couple of coffee bars in San Francisco?” McDonnell, who had lived all over the world until settling in San Francisco, was game. “My first cafe experience was very, very San Francisco-centric,” said McDonnell. In her early 20s hanging out at Cafe Flore slinging back espressos, seeing the late Harvey Milk around the Castro and interacting with all of the activists, artists, and intellectuals in the late 1970s she dreamed of opening her own cafe someday. “I used to love drinking straight shots of espresso and imagining that someday I wanted to be connected to some cafe and to some coffee only because of the atmosphere,” said McDonnell. “It was just a fascinating emergence into consciousness and certainly shaped my world view.” Social justice and philanthropy is very much a part of the company’s culture, an added value that hasn’t been missed by clients and customers. “They’ve poured their hearts and souls into their business and given back to so many people,” said Chip Conley, head of global hospitality and strategy at Airbnb. Conley, the founder and former owner of Joie de Vivre Hospitality, used to stock his boutique hotels with Equator coffee. “It’s time they got honored.” Quinn agreed. “We love that they are an LGBT business, but the fact is they are a community business that cares about community and supports the community where they come from,” he said.t For more information, visit http:// www.equatorcoffees.com.

Legal Notices>> FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036959800

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036980200

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037003300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MAURI PHOTOGRAPHY, 1000 PENNSYLVANIA AVE #8, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed MAURIZIO BRONZETTI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/25/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/25/16.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE PAN AMERICAN, 730 O’FARRELL ST #11, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed MOJITO EFFECT LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/08/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/08/16.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SUSHI RAW #3, 682 HAIGHT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed NEW CONCEPT SUSHI INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/21/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/21/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036989500

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036982300

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036984700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KING’S CONSTRUCTION CO, 319 HOLLOWAY AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed PAK KIN LO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/14/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/14/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036977400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HRMONIK, 2261 MARKET ST #450A, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ANN JEAN-PHILIPPE DUTREUIL. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/08/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036985200

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DROMONE TRUCKING, 945 TARAVAL ST #142, SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed FECHIN MCCORMACK. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/10/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/10/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036991700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: POKE BAR, 1355 MARKET ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed BLUBERD INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/15/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036983700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NORCAL CARPLANET INC, 2200 CESAR CHAVEZ ST #3, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed NORCAL CARPLANET INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/09/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036993300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SUSHI HON, 2598 HARRISON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed MINS GROUP, INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/15/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036982100

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BJ’S ELECTRIC BIKE TOURS; JB ROAD BIKE TOURS, 2715 HYDE ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AMERICAN SCOOTER & CYCLE RENTALS (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/09/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/09/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036992700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SOL AMBIANCE, 5522 GEARY BLVD, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94121. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed FLORAL AMBIANCE LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/05/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/15/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036968801

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BRYAN ROBERTS SALON LLC; PRIMA FACIE, 561 CASTRO ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed BRYAN ROBERTS SALON LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 08/11/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/02/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036988300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: UNIVERSAL MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY, 4348 3RD ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed UNIVERSAL MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/18/11. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/09/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036976000

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CUSTOM FIT, 1844 MARKET ST, RETAIL #2, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed CUSTOM FIT LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/07/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/07/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036951500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RADDISH, 3201 23RD ST #102, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed RADDISH INC (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/22/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/22/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036951400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NOMA, 3201 23RD ST #102, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed NOMA LLC (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/22/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/22/16.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016, STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-033314300

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: DIOGENES, 1000 PENNSYLVANIA AVE #8, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business was conducted by MAURIZIO BRONZETTI and signed by MAURIZIO BRONZETTI. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/01/11.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-034577300

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: DOLCI BEAUTY, 1521 18TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business was conducted by a corporation and signed by HOA - LAVIE BEAUTY INC (CA). The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 09/12/12.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036987400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THUNDERDOG; THUNDERDOG DESIGNS; THUNDERDOG PET CARE, 4620 17TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ERIC FLANIKEN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/02. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/11/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037002600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LA MOTO JAVA, 498 9TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a general partnership, and is signed MIKE RITTER, ANALUCIA MERCEDES CARRERA & KIMBERLY DANNER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/21/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/21/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036998400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NOMAN COFFEE CO, 438 TEHAMA ST #B, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a general partnership, and is signed NICHOLAS DANBY, ALEX REYES, RUBEN MARQUEZ & DIEGO GOMEZ. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/15/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/17/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036979200

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: AD ART, INC; AD ART SIGN COMPANY; AD ART ELECTRONIC SIGN SYSTEMS; AA SIGN & LIGHTING MAINTENANCE, 150 EXECUTIVE PARK BLVD #2100, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed AD ART, INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/30/03. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/10/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL, 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036989400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE PORK EXCHANGE, 1471 17TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed SOALFOOD INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/14/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/14/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037003000

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KAYLA JEANNE AESTHETICS, 1905 UNION ST #5, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed KNKI LLC, (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/24/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/21/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036990900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 9TH ST PUB, 399 9TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed CITY COMMERCIAL INVESTMENTS LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/23/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/15/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL, 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036998500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MAI CUISINE, 185 CHANNEL ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94158. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed GENJI PACIFIC, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/17/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/17/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037003600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: A-GAME EXPRESS LLC, 615 JOHN MUIR DR #420, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed A-GAME EXPRESS LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/21/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036998300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ROOH, 333 BRANNAN ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed GOOD TIMES RESTAURANTS LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/17/16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-036469400 The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: FLOURISH SKIN CARE AND WAXING, 1905 UNION ST #5, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business was conducted by a limited liability company and signed by KNKI LLC (CA). The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/06/15.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036992800

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: INOODLES, 1650 HOLLOWAY AVE #SB106, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed INOODLES2 LLC, (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/15 /16.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-035854600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE LOST CHURCH LLC, 65 CAPP ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed THE LOST CHURCH LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/01/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/14/16.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE WOMEN’S BUILDING, 3543 18TH ST #8, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed THE WOMEN’S CENTER2 INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 07/01/93. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/08/16.

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: KAZU TRADING CO, 1333 PACIFIC AVE #K, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business was conducted by an individual and signed by GARSON LAU. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/27/14.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016

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Legal Notices>> NOTICE OF FAMILY COURT ACTION IN THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE STATE OF DELAWARE IN AND FOR SUSSEX COUNTY FILE NO: CS16-01334

To: Robert Dervaes, Respondent Petitioner, Kristine Dervaes has filed a Petition for Custody against you in the Family Court of the State of Delaware in and for Sussex County on February 25, 2016. If you do not file an answer with the Family Court within 20 days after publication of this notice, exclusive of the date of publication, as required by statute, this action will be heard in Family Court without further notice. Petition No.: 16-06297 dated 03/09/2016, signed Thomas E. Gay, Esquire, Stumpf, Vickers & Sandy, P.A., 8 West Market Street, Georgetown, Delaware 19947. Phone (302) 856-3561 To: Robert Dervaes, Respondent Petitioner, Kristine Dervaes has filed a Petition for Divorce against you in the Family Court of the State of Delaware in and for Sussex County on February 25, 2016. If you do not file an answer with the Family Court within 20 days after publication of this notice, exclusive of the date of publication, as required by statute, this action will be heard in Family Court without further notice. Petition No.: 16-06597, dated 03/09/2016, signed Thomas E. Gay, Esquire, Stumpf, Vickers & Sandy, P.A., 8 West Market Street, Georgetown, Delaware 19947. Phone (302) 856-3561

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC-16-551887

In the matter of the application of: TERESA HART LAU, 1339 20TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner TERESA HART LAU, is requesting that the name GREYSEN JOSHUA CHAU, be changed to GREYSEN JOSHUA LAU. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Dept. 514, Room 514 on the 10th of May 2016 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-036621100

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: YUMWOK, 1650 HOLLOWAY AVE #C134, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business was conducted by a limited liability company and signed by INOODLES2 LLC (CA). The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 08/07/15.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 STATEMENT OF WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PARTNERSHIP OPERATING UNDER USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-032269000

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: SUSHI RAW #3, 682 HAIGHT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business was conducted by a general partnership and signed by NEW CONCEPT SUSHI INC (CA). The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 09/23/09.

MARCH 24, 31, APRIL 07, 14, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037019600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: YOUNGS IMPORT EXPORT, 238 TEDDY AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed JASON YOUNG. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/28/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/28/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036979300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GEMS, 120 PORTOLA DR. #9, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94131. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed GEORGIA MCDANIEL. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/08/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037019800

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: LA PETITE NAIL SHOP, 601 KANSAS ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed BOI CAM CO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/28/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037005200

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BLONDI’S; EUROGIRLS; EUROPINK; CALIFORNIA CATERERS, 537 JONES ST #2166, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed VITA CAMPISI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/22/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/22/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037022700

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037014300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAIGON BARBEQUE, 331 THORNTON AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a general partnership, and is signed ACCENT HOAHUU DO; TINA LUONG; HOANG Q. NGUYEN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/24 /16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/24/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037007700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CROWDTORCH; LAUGHSTUB; TUNESTUB; ELECTROSTUB, 660 MARKET ST FLOOR 4, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed VENDINI INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/03/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/23/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037018000

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HEALTHSHERPA; HEALTHSHERPA INSURANCE AGENCY, 530 BRANNAN ST #202, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed GEOZONING INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/06/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/25/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037016200

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SFREALESTATE.COM, 6033 GEARY BLVD, SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94121. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed SFREALESTATE ENTERPRISES (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/24/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037022300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: POKE BOWL, 1250 OCEAN AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, 94112. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed POKE BOWLS INC. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/29/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037002200

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: WASH CYCLES, 2241 IRVING ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed CHACHINGLY LLC, (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/21/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037000400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PANERA BREAD, 301 KING ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 95158. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed PAN NORCAL LLC, (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/07/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/18/16.

MARCH 31, APRIL 07, 14, 21, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037027300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CHITCHAT THERAPY, 1352 BROADWAY ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ALYSE EBERHARDT. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/31/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/31/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037027400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GOURMONADE, 5027 DIAMOND HGTS BLVD, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94131. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed VICKTOR STEVENSON. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/31/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/31/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037029300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: TOOLS OF OUR TRADE, 1367 SAN BRUNO AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ERIN SINGER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/16/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/31/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037027200

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 31

Classifieds The

Legal Notices>> ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC-16-551937

In the matter of the application of: JOANNE MICHELLE RAMIREZ, 909 FRANKLIN ST #7, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner JOANNE MICHELLE RAMIREZ is requesting that the name JOANNE MICHELLE RAMIREZ, aka JOANNE M. RAMIREZ, aka JOANNE RAMIREZ, be changed to JOANNE MICHELE CUENCA. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Dept. 514, Room 514 on the 3rd of May 2016 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

MARCH 17, 24, 31, APRIL 07, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037006900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ONE LOOSE BUTTON, 333 ONEIDA AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed REBECCA BRADSHAW. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/22/16.

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APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037014400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SWITCHED ON AUDIO, 88 RIVERTON DR, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed BRANDON BATTAGLIA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/30/06. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/24/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037014900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SCULLERY, 687 GEARY ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed SCULLERY INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/24/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/24/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037035700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FIELDWIRE, 459 GEARY ST #500, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an corporation, and is signed FIELDWIRELABS, INC. (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/01/13. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/05/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037028300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 707 SUTTER, 707 SUTTER ST. SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed JP GROUP INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/31/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/31/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-037027600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BUBU’S HOT SAUCE, 48 LANGTON ST #3, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed YHC HOLDINGS (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on NA. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/31/16.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-032424600

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: SUPPORTIVE LEARNING, 2639 MCALLISTER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business was conducted by an individual and signed by CHARLES J. ANDERSON. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/09/09.

APRIL 07, 14, 21, 28, 2016 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-033486300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SUNNY’S GLOBAL SHOPPING, 467 7TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed QING ZHENG. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/29/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/29/16.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: TERRI L. K. FLEMING, EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR AND PARENT COACH, 1809 9TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed TERRI FLEMING. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/30/16. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/31/16.

The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: WILDWOOD PASTRY, 709 BUCHANAN ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102 . This business was conducted by an individual and signed by CHARLES J.ANDERSON. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/13/11.

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Out &About

O&A

Vol. 46 • No. 14 • April 7-13, 2016

Dancers from the dance

Transforming the mundane by Sari Staver

by Sura Wood

ohn Waters, best known for creating trashy and outrageous films, is the curator of Home Improvements, the inaugural exhibit at FraenkelLAB, a gallery opening next week in Hayes Valley. On Friday, April 15, less than a week after Waters’ “trash trilogy” film retrospective closed at the Roxie Theater (Arts & Culture, March 31), the new gallery show will feature 13 artists whose works “transform the mundane and pay tribute to quotidian domestic materials: shopping bags, a wall mirror, bath towels, staples, a stroller,” according to the gallery.

he AIDS epidemic nearly wiped out an entire generation of creative lights – writers, artists, musicians, actors and intellectuals – but it hit the dance community especially hard. Dancers We Lost: Honoring Performers Lost to HIV/AIDS, an important dance history exhibition now at the GLBT History Museum in the Castro, pays tribute to gay male dancers with connections to the Bay Area, all of whose lives and successful careers were cut short by AIDS, and whose premature deaths left a void.

See page 55 >>

See page 52 >> Edward Stierle (1968-91), from Dancers We Lost: Honoring Performers Lost to HIV/AIDS, at the GLBT History Museum in San Francisco.

“Bill’s Stroller” (2014) by John Waters. Umbrella, lightweight stroller with silkscreened linen, and spiked, leather belt.

Herbert Migdoll, Courtesy The Joffrey Ballet

Courtesy of the artist and Marianne Boesky Gallery, New York

Painting a family portrait by David-Elijah Nahmod

loria Vanderbilt is now in her early 90s. Still active as a painter, she has lived a life of extreme privilege and extreme hardship. In Liz Garbus’ new documentary Nothing Left Unsaid: Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper, Vanderbilt tells CNN news anchor Anderson Cooper, her equally famous son, the story of her life. The film will debut on HBO on April 9.

Anderson Cooper, Wyatt Cooper, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Carter Cooper in a scene from Nothing Left Unsaid: Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper.

See page 36 >> Jack Robinson/Vogue, Courtesy of Sundance Institute

{ SECOND OF THREE SECTIONS }

“EXHILARATING . . . IMPOSSIBLE TO RESIST!”

—San Francisco Chronicle

OR PERF

CE MAN

APRI

A DDE

T 7P A 0 1 L

CREATED BY JON BEAVERS, KRISTOFFER DIAZ, CASEY LEE HURT, IAN MERRIGAN, AND RAMIZ MONSEF DIRECTED BY SHANA COOPER

ACT-SF.ORG | 415.749.2228 A.C.T.’S STRAND THEATER

<< Out There

34 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Besties announced in Arts & Culture by Roberto Friedman

agle-eyed readers who have been following Besties coverage in Arts & Culture over the years will have noticed that many of the winners in various categories have been previous awardees as well. This phenomenon came up for discussion during the planning process for the 2016 Besties, the LGBT Best of the Bay awards. There was some talk of retiring perpetual winners in a sort

arts & Culture

of “hall of fame” so that other deserving entries might prevail. But this seemed too much like penalizing the winners for their persistent popularity. So let the laurels fall as they may, and the repeats come as they do! This year, in honor of the Bay Area Reporter’s 45th anniversary, we dug through some files of newspaper clippings and found past press notices, from a variety of sources, about the winners. Here are the results in eight Arts & Culture categories.

Best Art Museum

de Young Museum (Runners up: Asian Art Museum, Contemporary Jewish Museum, GLBT History Museum, Legion of Honor, Museum of Craft and Design, Museum of the African Diaspora, Oakland Museum of California, San Jose Museum of Art, SFMOMA [closed through May 2016], Walt Disney Family Museum) “But the new de Young Museum, designed by Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron, is proof that despite these naysayers, a museum can be both gorgeous to look at and a cozy place to view art. Clad in its elegant copper skin, this building suggests that art and architecture can make good bed partners after all, and that a dialogue between the two can be creatively fruitful. “That a famously fussy Swiss team from Basel could accomplish this in a city that is so selfconsciously protective of its public image is all the more remarkable.” – Nicolai Ouroussoff, The New York Times, Oct. 13, 2005.

Best Ballet Dance Company

San Francisco Ballet (Runners up: Alonzo King Lines Ballet, Ballet San Jose, Diablo Ballet, Oakland Ballet, Post/Ballet, Smuin Ballet) “Nothing else is as riveting as the solo by Gennadi Nedvigin suggesting a ghostly matador. Pulled up and slightly back, he flicks his whole body from one oblique angle to another with absolute economy, becoming simultaneously beauty and ruin, silence and wail. In those moments, fearful symmetry is achieved.” – Anne Murphy, San Jose Mercury News, Jan. 28, 2016.

NEW CONSERVATORY THEATRE CENTER PRESENTS

“It’s seriously funny!” —NY TIMES

San Francisco Ballet dancer Vitor Luiz in Yuri Possokhov’s Swimmer.

Best Classical Venue

Davies Symphony Hall (Runners up: Herbst Theatre, Veteran’s Building, War Memorial Opera House, Old First Church, SF Conservatory of Music) “Davies Hall reopened last night with the new sound that everyone has been waiting and hoping for. The acoustics, which were the controversial issue for the first 12 years of the hall’s life, have been remade to provide an excellent and exciting symphonic sound. “The excitement of the preparations, the buildup and the celebratory activities were more than matched by the response of the hall itself to the sounds of the San Francisco Symphony playing Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony under Herbert Blomstedt’s direction.” – Robert Commanday, San Francisco Chronicle, Sept. 10, 1992.

Best Live Music Venue

The Fillmore

(Runners up: The Chapel, Great American Music Hall, Masonic Hall, Regency Center, The Warfield) “As her band tore into the song ‘Pumping (My Heart)’ in a hailstorm of feedback and fury on Wednesday night at the Fillmore, Patti Smith stood teetering at the edge of the stage, strangling her microphone and howling from the bottom of her soul: ‘Coming in a force field, coming in my brain/ And my heart, my heart/Total abandon.’” – Aidan Vaziri, San Francisco Chronicle, Jan. 23, 2015.

Best Modern Dance Company

ODC Dance

Join us for Thursday Night Trivia! Pre-show at 7pm Enjoy drinks, music and trivia fun HOSTED BY MARTUNI’S HEADLINER JOE WICHT APR 7, 14, 21

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“This show will go down like ‘butta’!” — E N T E R TA I N M E N T W E E K LY

Robert Rushin will perform on Saturdays Apr 2, 9 & 16 at 2pm

(Runners up: AXIS Dance Co., Jess Curtis/Gravity, Joe Goode Performance Group, Katie Faulkner/ little seismic, Keith Hennessy/Circo Zero, Sean Dorsey Dance) “Tomorrow night, San Francisco’s pioneering contemporary dance company ODC will premiere

a new work inspired by famed sculptor/environmental artist Andy Goldsworthy with live music by experimental cellist and loop musician Zoë Keating. For this piece, titled boulders and bones, ODC artistic directors Brenda Way and KT Nelson took choreographic inspiration from the ever-transforming landscapes of art and nature. The visual context of the dance comes from a time-lapse film by RJ Muna shot during the seven-month installation of a Goldsworthy sculpture at a private location north of San Francisco.” – David Pescovitz, Boing Boing website, Mar. 19. 2014.

Best Nature or Science Museum

California Academy of Sciences (Runners up: Exploratorium, SF Botanical Gardens, SF Conservatory of Flowers) “Head left from the entrance to the wooden walkway over otherworldly rays in the Philippine Coral Reef, then continue to the Swamp to see Claude, the famous albino alligator. Swing through African Hall and gander at the penguins, take the elevator up to the living roof, then return to the main floor and get in line to explore the Rainforests of the World, ducking free-flying butterflies and watching for other live surprises.” – Fodor’s Travel, San Francisco travel guide.

Best Small Music Venue

El Rio

(Runners up: Martuni’s, The New Parish, Thee Parkside, Rickshaw Stop, SF Eagle, Soundbox) “The best part about this place is you have room to breathe, thanks to the back patio. Even when the bar area is crowded, you always feel like you can go outside, be with the people you came with, and not be stepping on everyone’s toes. I always have a good time here. It’s El Rio! It’s not fancy or pretentious. It’s just a great time. “The bathroom situation is not excellent. Just – plan ahead.” – Martha P., SF, CA, Yelp review, Oct. 6. 2015. See page 52 >>

WRITTEN BY JONATHAN TOLINS DIRECTED BY REBECCA LONGWORTH STARRING J. CONR AD FR ANK

MAR 18–APR 24, 2016 BUY TICKETS AT NCTCSF.ORG BOX OFFICE: 415. 861. 8972 25 VAN NESS AVE AT MARKET ST

Courtesy San Francisco Symphony

Davies Symphony Hall auditorium, as seen from the stage.

<< Theatre

36 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Thou shalt applaud this performance by Richard Dodds

ntrance applause for a star coming onto the stage can sometimes be an awkward affair. A big name in a serious play must pause, waiting for quiet while trying not to acknowledge the welcome. There is no such problem in An Act of God because the star welcomes the applause with open arms. Actually, it is the character he plays who basks in the embrace, taking the onus off Sean Hayes for breaking character. As you probably know, that character is God, who has chosen to speak to his flock at the Golden Gate Theatre in the form of Hayes – “the beloved star of stage and screen,” God tells us. His mission is to introduce an updated set of the 10 Commandments, which he proceeds to do for 90 gosh-darn-funny minutes. (Not taking his name in vain is one of the holdover commandments, especially the irksome “God bless you” when someone expels nasal mucus.) David Javerbaum has tweaked his

Jim Cox

God, in the form of Sean Hayes, takes a selfie with his two assistants (James Gleason and David Josefsberg) in An Act of God now at the Golden Gate Theatre.

play for San Francisco, with God noting that the theater is located in “the Tenderloin, the glamor capital of San Francisco,” and that he hasn’t visited our city in over a century. “The last time I was in San Francisco was on a business trip in 1906.” Beat. “Just kidding.”

An Act of God had a successful Broadway run in 2015 starring Jim Parsons of TV’s The Big Bang Theory. It has been remounted by original director Joe Mantello for what was to be a two-city engagement that first played Los Angeles before arriving in San Francisco. News that

Hayes will be returning An Act of God to Broadway for a summer run makes the current engagement here both a post- and pre-New York run. Hayes, who played the giddily silly Jack McFarland on Will & Grace for eight seasons, projects a far different persona from Parsons, who deadpans his way through The Big Band Theory as the socially awkward but brainy Sheldon. If there were any doubt that the play, virtually a one-man show, would work with so different a personality, it is quickly smote by Hayes’ performance. He inhabits the role so fully and merrily in his own way that it’s hard to imagine any other actor in it. Javerbaum, a multi-Emmy Award-winning writer for his work on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, began the road to An Act of God through @TheTweetOfGod, a popular Twitter account that became a book before then emerging as a play. Unsurprisingly, An Act of God can sometimes feel like a standup comedy routine full of one-liners, albeit funny one-liners,

but there are moments when God’s wrath is unleashed when certain of his mysterious ways are questioned by his two onstage assistants (James Gleason and David Josefsberg). In that way, Javerbaum can avoid having God answer such notions as why he allows suffering. But there are also times when the play can be unexpectedly thoughtprovoking and poignant, with quick tiptoes into more provocative matters. These can include moments of intentional tastelessness for gaspproducing laughs and groans. “No Holocaust, no Cabaret,” God points out about one of his favorite musicals. And this God is certainly gayfriendly. “Thou shalt not tell others with whom to fornicate” is one of the new commandments. And God is not always easy on himself. “I made man in my image,” he says, “and I’m an asshole.”t An Act of God will run at the Golden Gate Theatre through April 17. Tickets are $45-$150. Call (888) 746-1799 or go to shnsf.com.

Musical comedy of errors by Richard Dodds

he first act opens with the townsfolk singing with morbid excitement about an upcoming public execution, while the second act opens with a group of well-worn prostitutes singing dejectedly about their work as dawn breaks. This is not a Sondheim musical set in some Industrial Age-hellhole, but rather a chipper Rodgers and Hart creation that first amused audiences in 1938, and that 42nd Street Moon is presenting for the second time. The Boys from Syracuse remains chipper, but whatever comedic vein that librettist George Abbott was mining 78 years ago has lost much of its luster. Watching 42nd Street Moon’s production at the Eureka Theatre, you can get some idea how the hijinks may have worked in their day with their anachronisms, rim-shot jokes, bawdy humor, and physical slapstick, if delivered by a comedically astute case. That’s not quite the case in director Greg MacKellan’s production, his final show for the company he helped found 23 years ago. It’s a genial staging of material that theater critics from 1938 tell us

Vanderbilt/Cooper

From page 33

From the very beginning viewers will see the deep love that mother and son have for each other. Cooper has been a great comfort to his mom,

indeed had big laughs. But it needs savvier bluster than it gets here to suggest what were meant as the big laughs. The Boys from Syracuse has the distinction of being the first Broadway musical based on a Shakespeare play. The Comedy of Errors was the source material, and while the major characters and the mechanics of the plot have been retained, Abbott’s adaptation eschews most anything approaching Shakespearean dialogue. Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart’s songs are an oddly mixed lot, veering from instant classics to lumpy curiosities, from “This Can’t Be Love” and “Falling In Love with Love” to “Let Antipholus In” and “Oh, Diogenes.” It turns out there are two Antipholuses (Antipholi?), longseparated twins, which no one realizes. And it also turns out that each Antipholus has a servant named Dromio, also long-separated twins, which again no one realizes. Hence, the comedy of errors. And compounding those errors, the Antipholus and Dromio who are visiting from Syracuse – not the city west of Schenectady, but part of the Roman Empire – are unmarried, while who buried one son at 23, and was disowned by another. As Vanderbilt speaks, the audience might be reminded of the old adage that money can buy just about anything except happiness. In spite of all her successes, Vanderbilt remains haunted

Dominic Colacchio

Robbie and Paul Rescigno, twins in real life, play twin characters in 42nd Street Moon’s production of The Boys from Syracuse.

their Ephesus counterparts each have wives who wind up cavorting at times with the wrong man. In the original Broadway production, look-alike actors were cast in the twinned master and servant roles, and a dismally received 1940 screen version used just one actor for each sets of twins and film trickery to create the pairs. 42nd Street Moon’s production has an actual set of twins as the Dromios, the

sprightly Robbie and Paul Rescigno, but they look less alike than David Naughton and Lucas Coleman in the Antipholus roles. A bit of a tattoo poking out from his costume helps identify Coleman as the Syracusian, with both actors bringing leading-man stature. A good portion of the female characters are courtesans, and even the three leading ladies metaphorically suggest in their big number

by the loss of her sons, and by her memories of the mother she herself had disowned decades earlier. Shortly before Gloria Morgan Vanderbilt died at 60, she was briefly reunited with her daughter. But as Vanderbilt recounts to Cooper, they

engaged in nothing more than small talk. The elder Vanderbilt passed shortly thereafter. Her teary-eyed daughter now tells Cooper that she wishes they’d said more to each other. The film includes archival photographs and film footage of Vanderbilt’s childhood during the 1920s and 30s, and goes into detail regarding a bitter custody battle of 1934. Only 10 at the time, Vanderbilt was forced to divide her time between her aunt and mother, and saw her name splashed across the tabloids. The film then follows Vanderbilt’s colorful if sometimes difficult life across the decades. Cooper hears about his mom’s marriages to Hollywood director Sidney Lumet and conductor Leopold Stokowski. Stan Stokowski, Vanderbilt’s eldest son, with whom she retains a close relationship, participated in the making of Nothing Left Unsaid. Vanderbilt also recalls her years as an actress. She enjoyed some success in the theater and on television, becoming a household name as the creator of designer jeans. Cooper listens intently as his mother speaks. Occasionally he asks questions as they examine old photos and family mementos together. It’s only towards the end of the film,

that whoring is sound life advice. But “Sing for Your Supper” is a good song, bringing in a fresh swing rhythm, and Abby Haug, Elise Youssef, and Heather Orth make it one of the highlights of this production. Choreographer Jayne Zaban’s steps emphasize composer Rodgers’ occasional moves in swing styles, with touches of jitterbug and such, that the cast performs enthusiastically. Music director Dave Dobrusky, outfitted in toga and sandals, provides on-point accompaniment from the piano on stage. And so MacKellan takes his leave from the company he co-created with Stephanie Rhoads, a 23-year mission that has always been rooted in a deep love for American musical comedy, and especially for the many shows you’d never likely get to see otherwise. A big thank-you goes out to MacKellan, as well as a wish that 42nd Street Moon will continue under leadership with the same passion that MacKellan brought to his effervescent little troupe.t The Boys from Syracuse will run at the Eureka Theatre through April 17. Tickets are $25-$75. Call (415) 255-8207 or go to 42ndstmoon.org.

when Carter Cooper’s suicide at 23 becomes the focus of their discussions, that Cooper opens up about his own feelings regarding his brother’s death and the early death of his dad. Completely absent from the film is any mention of the fact that Anderson Cooper is an out gay man, though both he and his mom have discussed his sexuality, a non-issue between them, in other interviews. Also missing from the film are Gloria’s recollections of a lesbian relationship she’d had as a teenager, which she speaks of quite openly in recent interviews for a new book she co-wrote with Cooper. The Rainbow Comes and Goes: A Mother and Son Talk About Life, Love and Loss was published on April 5. Nothing Left Unsaid: Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper might be looked upon as a chance for Vanderbilt to make amends for mistakes she made during her lifetime. Brutally honest with her son and with herself, she emerges as a woman of great strength. Vanderbilt is a survivor who, at the end of the day, has a good heart.t Nothing Left Unsaid: Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper premieres on HBO on April 9.

2016 SEASON

APR 07 – 17

Part of Program 07

Theme and Variations Balanchine’s glittering Theme and Variations evokes that great period when Russian ballet flourished.

“Regally elegant…” – San Francisco Examiner

APR 05 – 16

Rush

Rebecca Rhodes in Balanchine’s Theme and Variations (Choreography by George Balanchine © The Balanchine Trust) // © Erik Tomasson)

Also on Stage: Part of Program 06

APR 17 at 7pm

Farewell Performance SF Ballet Principal Dancers Joan Boada, Pascal Molat and Gennadi Nedvigin perform highlights from their careers.

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2016 Season Media Sponsors

<< Film

38 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

April showers at the Castro Theatre by David Lamble

n April, the Castro Theatre is transformed into a movie-palace Chautauqua with a sterling array of classic film programs leavened by special talks and live presentations. Last Men Standing (2016) The San Francisco Chronicle produced this 65-minute documentary following the lives of eight young men living with AIDS. (4/8) Labyrinth (1986) One of the strangest entries on the David Bowie film resume, this Jim Henson (of the Muppets)-directed kids’ tale involves Bowie as a “King of the Goblins” creature who abducts a teen girl’s baby brother. Good of a kind. The Dark Crystal (1982) Jim Henson and co-director Frank Oz provide a Muppet spin to this struggle to recover a missing hunk of the crystal that will save the world. (both 4/9) The Grapes of Wrath (1940) Director John Ford produced perhaps his greatest Depression-era chronicle of ordinary Americans overcoming economic collapse and personal despair. The film was Hollywood’s last stab at vox populism before the nation would be mobilized in the Titanic two-front war against Fascist totalitarianism. Lead

actor Henry Fonda is forever linked to his conscience-stricken ex-con in a career that would take him to Broadway and beyond. Citizen Kane (1941) While no longer an automatic pick for greatest American film of the sound era, this masterwork from then-25 Orson Welles still exposes the sins of corporate media, especially when tied to an oversized ego. Welles’ Charles Foster Kane was widely believed to be based on real-life media tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Welles took his best shot (in collaboration with his screenwriting partner Herman J. Mankiewicz), although his career took a hit from Hearst critics from then on. The complete story of this cursed masterpiece is contained in New Yorker critic Pauline Kael’s The Citizen Kane Book, including her tart essay “Raising Kane.” (both 4/10) Hail, Caesar! (2016) Trust it to director brothers Joel and Ethan Coen to concoct a screwballish comedy-drama where real-life star George Clooney is abducted for ransom. Josh Brolin is the studio honcho who must raise the ransom while keeping the news from two Hollywood gossip mavens (a dual turn by Tilda Swinton). The Coens round up the usual suspects in a fine ensemble: Ralph Fiennes,

Scarlett Johansson, Jonah Hill, Frances McDormand and Channing Tatum. Anomalisa (2015) Filmmaker Charlie Kaufman (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) employs stop-motion animation to poke fun at the plight of a motivational speaker who has swallowed his own b.s. (both 4/11) San Francisco Moth GrandSLAM V: Leaps This pretentious title is merely the name of a local storytelling contest. (4/12) Beyond Prisons Live on-stage conversation on prison reform with Van Jones and Shaka Senghor. (4/13) San Francisco Green Film Festival features 70 new environmental films, with opening & closing nights at the Castro. (4/14) Big Trouble in Little China (1986) Kurt Russell is the main attraction in this copycat melodrama set in a sinister fake Oriental-style setting. Production values triumph over story sense. Horrormeister John Carpenter takes the rap. Never Too Young To Die (1986)

Leonard Maltin cites this travesty’s singular virtue as Gene Simmons scoring a few points in his portrayal of a power-crazed hermaphrodite. (both 4/15) Peaches Christ presents a Spice World parody. (4/16) Dr. Strangelove, or How I Learned To Stop Worrying and

Love the Bomb (1964) American-born British director Stanley Kubrick was at the zenith of his career as a world-class satirist when he unleashed Peter Sellers in a triple-threat turn as a British Air Force officer, a befuddled American president, and the wheelchair-bound, totally bonkers, evil inventor of a doomsday machine. At a remote Air Force base, Sellers’ incredulous officer hears the ravings of a lunatic who plans to launch a sneak attack on the Soviet Union. The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) Roger Moore as 007 confronts an end-of-theworld plot from a mad man who plans a new civilization under the sea. The Madness of King George (1994) Nigel Hawthorne rounds out this trilogy of madness in high places with a sublime portrait of British King George III losing his way. Alan Bennett’s play is deliciously mounted by Nicholas Hytner. (all three, 4/17) Laura (1944) Otto Preminger showed an uncharacteristic gentle touch with this classic noir/romance. See page 52 >>

Another straight white dick film by Erin Blackwell

oes the world need another male private eye movie? No. But obviously LA does, because LA without a hollow-cheeked private dick ricocheting from one floozy to another, collecting bullet holes and landing sucker punches in dark alleys before waking in a weird room

with a corpse is not classic LA. Classic is as classic does. Surely one of the classiest excuses for sitting through this overdone hash is a fulllength feature shot as a series of five 20-minute takes, in glorious 35mm color. You can see Too Late for its audacity, heterosexism, and selfreference at the grandiose Alamo Drafthouse, starting April 8.

The best thing about Too Late is the giddy sense of connection you get from watching characters appear, disappear, and suddenly reappear in new contexts scattered around that great Southern sprawl, Los Angeles. Five moving tableaux are set in a park, a mansion, a strip club, a drive-in, and a swanky hotel. That’s the order they’re shown in,

not their chronological order. I’m not giving away anything the press notes don’t divulge, and it won’t hurt knowing the thing is a puzzlemaker’s zigzag through space-time. It’s a voyeur’s dream to travel with the camera crew through this series of sordid milieux, whatever the order. If I hadn’t taken notes, there’s no way I would’ve been able to piece together the story. The next best thing is that the cast isn’t your usual puffed-up crowd of “stars.” All the actors were unknown to me, which only shows how little I know. They’ve all cut their teeth on TV screens or stages. John Hawkes would not be considered a discovery. His face is the face we’re stuck with for most of the 107-minute run-time, so I’m grateful it’s a seedy, ravaged, ratty face with grizzled face-hair under thinning poetic locks. No one has ever come close to replacing Humphrey Bogart as the screen’s master of cynical or sadistic or psychotic despair, but at least Hawkes looks convincingly underfed. Hawkes’ Sampson isn’t so much a character anyway as an icon, an homage to Raymond Chandler’s ideal of a lone knight with an automobile tailing bad guys. For all his logistical flair, firsttime writer-director Dennis Hauck doesn’t have much to say in the way of political, social, moral critique. This is no Chinatown, although he borrows a bit of mother/daughter confusion to achieve a fifth-act

narrative surprise. Beyond surprise, there’s no deeper payoff. The story as a story closes in on itself and won’t trouble your sleep by awakening in you some greater existential dread. It’s never even scary, and maybe it doesn’t want to be, choosing intrigue over suspense. Fair enough. There’s joy in its performance-based, cinéma vérité approach to this industry town that’s never really left the soundstage behind. Everybody hits their marks in Hauck’s freewheeling, fast-panning camera’s-eye view, leaving in its wake something like a soap opera with guns. You will enjoy this movie if you enjoy movies, or long for LA, or admire bravura. You’ll like it best if you’re a straight white male. It’s a bit late in social evolution for Too Late. There are no queers or eccentrics in it. No bums or gunsels or, god forbid, dykes. No Peter Lorre or Eve Arden. An impressive array of professional girl flesh includes a young tart (tits-out Vail Bloom) married to an old fart (magisterial Robert Forster) who in a fit of pique answers the doorbell naked below the waist, blurring the line between nice clean murder and dirty porn. I guess that’s pure Mickey Spillane. Pulp. It’s sad to see a young wannabe auteur scraping the bottom of the gun barrel when he could’ve aspired to a truly transgressive vision by breaking the dominant heteronormative imperative. That’s what Noir is for.t

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John Hawkes in writer-director Dennis Hauck’s Too Late.

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<< Music

40 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Bachelorette musical extravaganza by Philip Campbell

erbian-born Montreal-based composer Ana Sokolović’s a cappella chamber opera SvadbaWedding opened last Saturday night as the second offering in SF Opera Lab’s inaugural season in the new Taube Atrium Theater. The charming and resonant portrayal of a young Balkan bride’s prenuptial get-together with her girlfriends premiered in Toronto in June 2011, and its producer, Toronto’s Queen of Puddings Music Theatre, later toured it to Dublin, Orléans, Paris, Belgrade and Western Canada (Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver). The U.S. premiere in Philadelphia in 2013 was remounted in an experimental performing space installed in an old pumping station under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. The stage director MarieJosée Chartier assisted originally on the Toronto production. For San Francisco, Svadba-Wedding has been completely restaged by the world premiere’s director, Michael Cavanaugh. Site-specific for the versatile Taube Atrium, the latest incarnation, with the audience seated at café tables, attests to Cavanaugh’s creative range. His previous San Francisco Opera productions include Lucia di Lammermoor (2015) and the striking Susannah

Stefan Cohen/San Francisco Opera

Jacqueline Woodley (Milica), Liesbeth Devos (Danica), Laura Albino (Lena), Pauline Sikirdji (Zora), Andrea Ludwig (Nada) and Krisztina Szabó (Ljubica) in SF Opera Lab’s Svadba-Wedding.

(2014) and Nixon in China (2012). With the simplest of means – evocative projection, set and lighting design by Alexander V. Nichols and attractive contemporary costumes by Kristi Johnson – Cavanaugh has given fresh individual personality and warmth to the impressive cast of six women, all making their SFO debuts. Like any bachelorette party, there is some inexperienced tippling, playful banter, game-playing and even a few hints of resentment towards the bride. What makes Svadba-Wedding unique

is Sokolović’s musical language, incorporating Balkan folk-music rhythms with modernist harmonies and fantastical vocal punctuation. Seven seamless scenes trace an arc from the interactions and rituals of the bridal shower to the morning of the wedding. Simple and mysterious customs, including communal bathing and preparing the bride’s hair and dress, are surprisingly poignant as the women remember happy times and express bittersweet feelings about the future.

Set to a Serbian text and the composer’s own imaginary language (a wonderfully percussive and inventive sort of pitched scat singing), the score is both dramatically expressive and good-humored. The lyrical closing scene ends with the only real aria, translated as, “Blow, blow the gentle wind,” and it is hauntingly beautiful. Milica, the intended bride, says goodbye to her old life as her friends depart and admonish her to shed no tears. It is a lovely and timeless moment underlining the universal humanity of sisterhood and shared rites of passage. Cavanaugh’s arresting stage pictures and graceful physical movements are subtly stylized and unfussy while adding necessary cohesion. Bright splashes of color, moody projections and inventive uses of drapery by designer Nichols match the director’s vision. Dáirine Ní Mheadhra and John Hess are co-music directors, and they, too, serve the composer with remarkable understanding and control. Beautifully rehearsed and perfectly executed, it is amazing how lush the music sounds with only six unaccompanied female voices. The women get their own distinct and characterful moments in a truly ensemble work. It wouldn’t succeed without their individual excellence,

but it is their blended voices that create an enigmatic and engaging sound world. If there is a standout role, it is rightfully assigned to Jacqueline Woodley as Milica the bride. Her purity of tone is perfectly suited to the gorgeous closing song, and her acting is delicately understated. Liesbeth Devos (Danica), Laura Albino (Lena), Pauline Sikirdji (Zora), Andrea Ludwig (Nada) and Krisztina Szabo (Ljubica) share the same gift of communicating expressively without any hint of distorting vibrato. They also inhabit their parts with warm-blooded commitment, and each alluring voice combines to astonishing effect. Svadba-Wedding is a cheering theatrical experience, more cantata than opera, and the “in the round” staging and unobtrusive Meyer Sound Constellation system heighten the intimate mood of celebration. Audience members are invited to an after-party after each performance featuring complimentary champagne and croquembouche wedding cake with DJ @ TedSF. Since I didn’t stay, I can’t tell you what croquembouche is, but it certainly sounds intriguing.t Svadba-Wedding continues Fri. & Sat., April 8 & 9, at 8 p.m., and Sun., April 10, at 3 p.m. Info: sfopera.com.

Chorus pays homage to heroes by David-Elijah Nahmod

he San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus pays homage to the distinguished gay author Armistead Maupin in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the first installment of Maupin’s serialized novel

Tales of the City appearing in the San Francisco Chronicle. Maupin’s stories might have been the first to include the entire LGBTQ spectrum as he acknowledged the mecca and safe haven that San Francisco has become. The author captured the imaginations of millions as his Tales

became a series of bestselling books and three television miniseries. Maupin will appear as guest artist when the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus performs Tales of Our City: Our Lives, Our Heroes at Davies Symphony Hall on April 14 and 15. The program will include “Michael’s

Letters to Mama.” The piece’s title refers to Tales of the City’s Michael Tolliver, one of literature’s great gay characters. “It’s always a thrill when the Gay Men’s Chorus performs that piece,” Maupin told the Bay Area Reporter. “That letter was my coming out to my parents. It’s a lovely thing to hear it set to music.” Maupin said that he initially had no idea that Tales of the City would become a full-time career. “Not in my wildest dreams,” he said. “At first I hoped I would have a popular newspaper column. I’m very grateful, it’s been nothing but a joyride.” One of the recurring themes in the Tales stories is the creation of LGBT families among people who’ve been rejected by their birth families because of who they are. “The family you create for yourself as opposed to your biological family,” Maupin said. “It’s not enough to merely be tolerated, it creates a real gulf between you and the people you love.” Dr. Tim Seelig, conductor and artistic director of SFGMC, spoke of the significance of Maupin’s work. “The series of Tales books gave the entire world a window into life in San Francisco,” Seelig said. “More than just giving people a peek into the colorful lives of Barbary Lane,

it allowed the world to follow the journey of the entire LGBT community through the triumphs and tragedies, joys and sorrows.” The concert, Seelig promises, is going to be a huge and emotional spectacle. “Actually, our largest yet,” he said. “We will have 300 singers on stage, along with the 60-piece Bay Area Rainbow Symphony. I would describe it as monumental.” In addition to Maupin’s iconic creation, the evening will pay tribute to SFGMC members who lived through the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and 90s, and to the late Harvey Milk (1930-78). When Milk was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors a year before he was assassinated at City Hall, he became the first out gay man in US history to hold elective office. “The addition of parts of James Lippa’s I Am Harvey Milk were obvious in that we are celebrating the first article that was written in 1976 just as Harvey Milk was campaigning for city supervisor,” Seelig said. “Honoring heroes such as Harvey and Armistead just felt so right.” He noted that the Chorus would be taking I Am Harvey Milk on the road. “We are also performing I Am Harvey Milk this July at the Gay and Lesbian Choruses Festival in Denver with 1,000 singers See page 54 >>

Courtesy BBC

Tales of the City author Armistead Maupin will appear with the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus.

<< Film

42 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Trumpeter on a musical mission by David Lamble

“I

f you’re going to tell a story, come with some attitude.” – actor-writer-director Don Cheadle as jazz great Miles Davis. If nothing else, the new Miles Davis bio-pic Miles Ahead, opening Friday, has attitude to spare. The legendary jazz trumpeter started blowing professionally around 1944, led a too-cool-for-school quintet with Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter in 1955, and picked up 23 Grammy nominations along the way before disappearing from public view between 1975-80. Filmmaker Cheadle, whom many of us admire for House of Lies and Talk to Me, about the 1968 DC riots after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., is as qualified as anyone to take on the man and the legend. But getting to the man can be a little like broiling a juicy steak and smothering it in ketchup or chocolate sundae sauce. The film uses the now-classic fractured-fairy-tale structure so effective in boxing bio Raging Bull

Brian Douglas, Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics

Don Cheadle as Miles Davis in Miles Ahead.

and in last year’s literary two-hander The End of the Tour. We catch Miles at several career pit-stops early on, sans gel-curl wig, when he first started blowing for Billy Eckstein’s orchestra. The movie’s present tense (circa 1980) opens with a Rolling

Stone magazine writer (sturdy aspiring white hipster Ewan McGregor) knocking on the now-reclusive musician’s door. After punching the writer in the face, Miles grabs a gun and heads down to his record company’s offices, where he trades

verbal shots with a smug recording executive, or “suit.” Miles: “Don’t send people to my house.” Suit: “You have new material.” “My material! My sessions tape.” “You’re under contract. We actually own that tape.” Miles fires the gun. The bullet lodges in the office wall. “How much money you got on you?” He takes $1,000 from the frightened executive. “Oh, you’re about $19,000 light, but that’s alright.” Then Miles Ahead turns into a version of Hitchcock’s North by Northwest with guns, goons and fast cars. At one point the Rolling Stone guy whines, “I’m not dying over a jazz tape.” To which Miles replies, “Don’t call it jazz, that’s a made-up word. It’s social music.” Even at its most preposterous moments, Miles Ahead is always fun, even when Miles and the goons chase each other through an actual boxing match. A surreal touch reveals Miles to be one of the fighters. But don’t ask about how this Miles treats his women, you don’t want to

know. Curiously, the movie is like many attempts at hip cultural history, oddly homo by default, since there are fewer potential lawsuits that way. Davis was married to actress Cicely Tyson from 1981-88. Reportedly, Cheadle had been working to get the dough for Miles Ahead for years. One of the conditions was that there be a major white character in the mix, a composite character Miles can beat on, confide in and let us non-black folks identify with. It’s a stupid state of affairs, maybe akin to Trump’s pandering to pissed-off older white voters. But Miles Ahead is an honest effort worth catching. Cheadle is as good as we’ll likely get as Miles, a Mozartian genius whose body of work doesn’t yet reach today’s young and impressionable I-Phone demographic. I’ve been writing this with Miles Davis’ Greatest Hits playing in the background (Columbia Legacy CD); that album and The Best of Miles Davis: The Capitol/Blue Note Years are available at Amoeba Records in SF, Berkeley, and Hollywood.t

Plight of the poor peasantry by Tavo Amador

talian filmmakers turned the devastating impact of Fascism and World War II on their country into cinematic art. Directors, including the openly gay Luchino Visconti, Roberto Rossellini, and Vittorio De Sica, saw the dreadful poverty, widespread civil disorder and disillusion, and from their individual visions emerged what is broadly called “Italian Neorealism.” Visconti’s Obsessione (1942), The Earth Trembles (1948); Rossellini’s Rome: Open City

(1945), Paisan (1946); and De Sica’s Shoeshine (1946), Bicycle Thieves (1949) rejected conventional glamour, often used nonprofessional actors, and focused on the lives of the desperate and disenfranchised. Less well-remembered but equally influential in the decade following the end of the war is Giuseppe De Santis, whose Riso Amaro (Bitter Rice, 1949) is now available in a Criterion Collection DVD. The operatic plot centers on the struggles of migrant women hired to harvest rice in the northern regions

of the country during the brief season. Some are “documented,” i.e., authorized by the government to work in the fields. Some, “illegals,” are not. All, however, are willing, indeed eager for the backbreaking work. Walter (handsome, virile Vittorio Gassman) and Francesca (Doris Dowling) have just stolen some jewelry from a hotel. They plan to board a train carrying peasant women to the Po Valley‘s rice fields. On the platform, Walter watches Silvana (the striking, sexy Silvana Mangano) dancing to a portable

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record player. He joins her in a hot jitterbug. But he is spotted and shot at by authorities. He escapes. On the train, Francesca, who has the jewels, meets Silvana, one of the workers. Francesca pretends she, too, wants to work in the fields, but she has no permit. Silvana becomes her mentor. Both the “legals” and the “illegals” have been allowed to work in the paddies. Francesca and Silvana meet Marco (the magnetic Raf Vallone), a soldier soon to be discharged. He is attracted to Silvana, but she is not interested. Towards the end of the season, Walter returns. He’s abusive to Francesca, but charms Silvana, who is excited by his criminal life. He and some cohorts are planning to commandeer the trucks, fill them with the rice, and escape, intending to sell it on the black market. If they succeed, neither the landowners nor the women workers will get paid. Silvana helps Walter by dancing, thereby creating a diversion so that he and his fellow thieves can drive the fully loaded trucks away without interference. But Francesca and Marco block Walter’s plans. Francesca tells Silvana that Walter manipulated her, that he will abuse her as well, and that his “exciting” life is imaginary. The jewels they stole, for example, are fake. In the silo, Walter and Marco shoot at each other. Then Silvana grabs Marco’s gun and confronts Walter, who begins to charm and seduce her. Nonetheless, she sees him for who he really is and is overcome with shame. Will she shoot him? How will she atone for her own behavior? The intense, gripping finale answers these questions very movingly. The film made a star of the relatively inexperienced Mangano (1930-89), who lights up the screen. She married the movie’s producer, Dino De Laurentiis, and became a leading actress in Italy. Her forays into Hollywood (such as Circe opposite Kirk Douglas’ Ulysses, 1954), were infrequent and unsatisfying. In Italy, however, she had great successes in the scandalous Anna (1951), playing a nun with a “shocking” past; Mambo and The Gold of Naples (1954); but raising her family took

precedence over her career. Hence, she was overtaken by Gina Lollobrigida and Sophia Loren. Later, she was Tadzio’s elegant mother in Visconti’s haunting Death in Venice (1971) and played the Reverend Mother Ramallo in 1984’s Dune. Dowling (dubbed) is sympathetic. The charismatic Gassman (19222000), one of Italy’s most acclaimed screen and stage actors, is riveting. Walter may be treacherous, but it’s easy to see why Francesca and Silvana are drawn to him. Hollywood beckoned. He appeared opposite Elizabeth Taylor in Rhapsody (1954) and in War and Peace (1956) with Audrey Hepburn and Henry Fonda, but was not properly used. He was briefly married to Shelley Winters. Vallone (1916-2002) makes the good Marco interesting, and his own sex appeal rivals Gassman’s. Vallone also worked in Hollywood and on American television, but his best films were Italian, notably De Sica’s Two Women (1961). De Santis, who co-authored Bitter Rice, subsequently wrote and directed other pictures, but nothing had the impact of this film. Riso Amaro, which can also be translated as Bitter Laughter, is the picture that inspired the classic memorable grape-stomping episode of I Love Lucy. “Neorealism,” always an imprecise term, faded as Italy grew more prosperous. Arguably the last film to fall into that category was Federico Fellini’s The Nights of Cabiria (1957), although Visconti’s Rocco and His Brothers (1960) and Two Women show that the lives of the less-fortunate continued providing artistic inspiration for two of the era’s top directors.t

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Oscar

de la Renta THE RETROSPECTIVE

M A R 1 2 – M A Y 3 0, 2 0 1 6 Oscar de la Renta’s designs celebrated the best in us— beauty, optimism, and confidence. See more than 130 ensembles in the first major retrospective to pay tribute to one of the most beloved and influential fashion icons of our time.

This exhibition is organized by the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco with the collaboration of Oscar de la Renta LLC. Presenting Sponsors: Cynthia Fry Gunn and John A. Gunn. Director’s Circle: Diane B. Wilsey. Curator’s Circle: Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund, The Diana Dollar Knowles Foundation, Marissa Mayer and Zachary Bogue, and Yurie and Carl Pascarella. Benefactor’s Circle: Paula and Bandel Carano Stephanie and Jim Marver, Neiman Marcus, and Jennifer and Steven Walske. Patron’s Circle: Mrs. Carole McNeil, Mrs. Komal Shah and Mr. Gaurav Garg, Mary Beth and David Shimmon, and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph O. Tobin II. Additional support is provided by Mrs. George Hopper Fitch, and Mr. and Mrs. William Hamilton. Photo: Arthur Elgort for Vogue US, March 1999

FAMSF_OSDLR_BAR_Apr_PremSpread4c_final.indd 2-3

3/11/16 1:20 PM

<< Out&About

O&A

46 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Intrude @ Civic Center Plaza

Mon 11

Thu 7 The Addams Family @ Berkeley Playhouse Brickman, Elice and Lippa’s fun musical adaptation based on the Charles Addams characters. $25-$40. Various times thru April 17. 2640 College Ave., Berkeley. (510) 8458542. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org

Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi The musical comedy revue celebrates its 40th year with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs; now with new characters like Sia and Bernie Sanders. $25-$160. Beer/wine served; cash only; 21+, except where noted. 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com

Beautiful by Night @ Roxie Theater Beautiful by Night- A Tribute to Aunt Charlie’s, James Hosking and Vanessa Carr’s documentary about the drag performers at the Tenderloin bar; with performances by Colette LeGrande, Donna Personna, and Olivia Hart. $15. 7pm. 3117 16th St. www.roxie.com

Bouquets to Art @ de Young Museum Floral exhibits inspired by the museum’s contemporary modern art works, along with luncheons, talks and special events. $15-$85. Thru April 10. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park. www.famsf.org

The Boys From Syracuse @ Eureka Theatre 42nd Street Moon’s new production of of the classic Abbot, Hart, Rodgers musical comedy adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors. $25-$75. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri 8pm. sat 6pm. Sun 3pm. Thru April 17. 215 Jackson St. 255-8207. www.42ndstmoon.org

Chamber Works @ Taube Atrium Theater Musicians of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra curate two eclectic and intimate nights of music and song featuring the 2016 San Francisco Opera Adler Fellows, who perform works by Franz Schubert, David Conte, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Benjamin Britten, Joseph Haydn, Lou Harrison and Shinji Eshima. $35. 8pm. Also April 20, 8pm. Veterans Building, 4th floor, 410 Van Ness Ave. www.sfoperalab.com

Kevin Rolston performs his threecharacter solo show with a different take on gay lives. $25. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru April 16. 1117 Market St. www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2194657

elebrating our Besties issue, let’s continue with a trove of winning arts events. Along with our own party April 7 at Oasis, several galas and fundraisers offer a chance for you to don your springtime best fashions and support local causes while having fun. Oh, and don’t forget the giant rabbits.

John Waters’ Trash Trilogy @ Roxie Theater Screenings of the camp classics Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble and Desperate Living. $12-$30 (3-film pass). Various times thru April 10. 3117 16th st. www.roxie.com

New & Classic Films @ Castro Theatre April 7: Disposable Film Festival (8pm). April 8: Last Men Standing. April 9: Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal and Fraggle Rock. April 10: The Grapes of Wrath and Citizen Kane. April 11: Hail, Caesar and Anomalisa. April 12: GrandSLAM Championship V. April 13: InForum talk: Beyond Prisons with Van Jones and Shaka Senghor. April 14: SF Green Film festival. $11$16. 429 Castro St. castrotheatre.com

On Clover Road @ The Rueff SF Playouse’s production of Steven Dietz’ thriller about a lost mother and daughter. $20. Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sat 3pm. Thru April 16. Upstairs studio at The Strand Theatre, 1127 Market St. 677-9596. sfplayhouse.org

The Unfortunates @ Strand Theatre

Baloney @ Oasis The gay all-male revue returns with a sexy new Spring show. Enjoy conceptual striptease numbers and specialty cocktails. $25-$50. 7pm. Thu-Sat thru April 16. 298 11th St. www.sfbaloney.com www.sfoasis.com

Buyer & Cellar @ New Conservatory Theatre Center J. Conrad Frank stars in Jonathan Tolin’s hilarious solo show about an actor working in Barbara Streisand’s underground shopping mall. $20-$45. Thursday night pre-show trivia & piano with Joe Wicht thru April. Thru April 24. 25 Van Ness Ave, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

Dancers We Lost @ GLBT History Museum Dancers We Lost: Honoring Performers Lost to HIV/AIDS , a new exhibit of photos and ephemera, curated by Glenne McElhinney, about Bay Area dancers who died of AIDS. Thru Aug. 7. 4127 18th St. www.dancerswelost.org/exhibit/ www.glbthistory.org

Feminists to Feministas @ GLBT History Museum Feminists to Feministas : Women of Color in Prints and Posters, a new exhibit of illustrations depicting LBT women of color from the 1970s to today. $5. Thru July 4. Reg, hours Mon, Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Sun 12pm5pm. 4127 18th St. glbthistory.org

The How and the Why @ Aurora Theatre, Berkeley West Coast premiere of Sarah Treem’s ( House of Cards) drama about two women biologists who clash over evolution and gender theories. $35$45. Tue 7pm. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru May 22. Harry’s UpStage, 2081 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 8434822. www.auroratheatre.org

Last Men Standing @ Castro Theatre Special screening of Last Men Standing: Forgotten Survivors of AIDS, the new film about longterm HIVsurviving gay men. 7pm. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

Macbeth @ Berkeley Repertory Theatre “The Scottish play,” Shakespeare’s classic tragedy about a murderous royal couple, stars Conleth Hill and Frances McDormand. $45-$145. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed & Sun 7pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru April 10. Roda Theatre, 2025 Addison St. berkeleyrep.org

The amazing must-see darkly comic blues-gospel-hip hop musical tells of Big Joe, a tough-talking soldier cursed with giant hands, who must face his dead friends and battle a plague in the Underworld. $35-$95. Tue-Sat 7:30pm. Wed, Sat Sun 2pm. Thru April 10. 1127 Market St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org

New exhibit of nearly a dozen local activist-artists who work in different media. Thru Aug. 14. Also, Kevin Cooley’s Golden Prospects, a visual survey of water and waste in California. $8-$10. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. www.ybca.org

Sat 9 Andrea Marcovicci, Shawn Ryan @ Great American Music Hall In The Queens of Cabaret, the veteran actress and New York cabaret singer, and the LA-based singer-actor, share a concert bill at the historic music hall. $25-$35 ($50 with dinner). 8pm. 859 O’Farrell St. www.slimspresents.com

Art @ Lesher Theatre, Walnut Creek Yasmina Reza’s award-winning comedy about a possibly bogus high-priced painting gets an East Bay production by Center Repertory Company. $33-$53. Tue-Wed 7:30pm. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2:30pm. Thru April 30. 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. (925) 943-7469. www.centerrep.org

Avant Garden @ Southern Exposure The art gallery’s annual live art auction includes food, drinks and great art. $50-$150. 6pm VIP reception, 7pm-11pm. (auction previews April 4-7, 12pm-6pm). 3030 20th St. www.soex.org

Colossal @ SF Playhouse Andrew Hinderaker’s strikingly staged drama about a gay football athlete, disability and recovery, with a drum corps and dancing football players. $25-$100. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri &Sat 8pm. Sat 3pm, Sun 2pm. Thru April 30. 450 Post St. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org

Cyrano @ Mountain View Center for the Arts

Hamlet @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley

Weekly screenings of strange and obscure short films. $10. 8pm. Also Fridays. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilm.com

Shotgun Players’ new innovative production of the classic Shakespeare tragedy includes performers (who’ve learned the entire play) pulling their roles for the night from Yurick’s skull! Previews thru April 20. Wed-Sun thru May 15. In repertory June 10-Jan, 2017. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org

Fri 8 An Act of God @ Golden Gate Theatre Sean Hayes (Will & Grace) stars in the touring production of David Javerbaum’s hilarious Broadway comedy about God, who explains, well, everything. $45$125. Tue-Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm. Sun 1pm & 6:30pm. Thru April 17. 1 Taylor St. at Market. AnActofGod.com shnsf.com

Take This Hammer @ YBCA

Edmond Rostand’s play (translated by Michael Hollinger) about a largenosed romantic go-between and unrequited love, gets a swashbuckling action-packed production. $19-$80. Thru May 1. 500 Castro St., Mountain View. (650) 463-1960. www.theatreworks.org

Unusual Movies @ Oddball Films

Hidden Gold @ Asian Art Museum Jewelle Gomez @ City Lights Bookstore

Wed 13

Hidden Gold : Mining its Meaning in Asian Art (thru May 8). Also, China at the Center: Rare Ricci and Verbiest World Maps; Extracted: a Trilogy of Ranu Mukherjee (thru Aug. 14); Chinese Laquerware (thru July 31); Elephants Without Number (thru June 26), and more. Free-$25. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org

Live in the Castro @ Jane Warner Plaza The outdoor performance series returns. April 9, 12pm: Sundance Saloon’s fun two-stepping. April 10, 1pm: Castro Flaggers whirl with colorful fabrics. www.castrocbd.org

Colette Uncensored @ The Marsh Lori Holt’s new solo show tells the story of the famed French novelist’s pioneering feminist life. $20-$100. Thu & Fri 8pm. Sat 5pm. Thru May 14. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

Magnificent Magnolias @ SF Botanical Gardens

Jack Bender @ Books Inc. Opera Plaza Producer and director ( Lost, The Sopranos, Game of Thrones) discusses his book The Elephant in the Room, in conversation with Jason Ritter ( Parenthood, Girls). 7pm. 601 Van Ness Ave. 776-1111. booksinc.net

Floaters, the choreographer’s threepart multimedia work, explores alienation, reality as illusion. $15. 8pm. Also April 9. 2948 16th St. www.christinebonansea.com www.thelab.org

Deal With the Dragon @ The Costume Shop

Best bets C by Jim Provenzano

Christine Bonansea Dance @ The Lab

Thu 7 Beautiful by Night @ Roxie Theater

See beautiful floral and foliage displays, trees and plants in various beautiful gardens specific to region. Expect amazing new growth and blossoms following the rainy days. Daily walking tours and more. Free$15. Tours, lectures, classes and more. Open daily, 7:30am-sunset. Golden Gate Park. 661-1316. www.sfbotanicalgarden.org

Out&About>>

Rodney Ewing, Jamil Hellu @ Berkeley Art Center

Gears Turning Poetry @ Modern Times Bookstore

Dual exhibit of works exploring the challenging representation of the forgotten, including Flint, Michigan residents, and Syrian men executed for being gay. Thru May 8. 1275 Walnut St., Berkeley. (510) 644-6893. www.berkeleyartcenter.org

Kim Shuck and special guests read. 4pm. 2919 24th St. www.mtbs.com

Second Time Around @ The Marsh Charlie Varon and cellist Joan Jeanrenaud perform Varon’s storytheatre work about seeking human connection in a high tech world. $35$45. Sat. 8:30pm Sun 2pm. Thru April 17. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

Soiree 2016 @ Terra Gallery The SF LGBT Center’s annual festive fundraiser gala, hosted by Juanita More!, includes dinner and cocktails ($225 and up, VIP ticket, 5pm), drinks and dancing ($95, 8:30pm-12am, general ticket), silents auctions, music with DC Sergio Fedasz, and performances by Abominatrix, Honey Mahogany, Mutha Chucka, VivvyAnnes ForeverMORE, Dulce de Leche, Glamamore, Mis Rahni Nothingmore, Voodonna Black, Jonny Rocket, Laundra Tyme, pianist Joe Wicht. 511 Harrison St. 896-1234. www.sfcenter.org/soiree2016

Wicked @ Orpheum Theatre Stephen Schwartz’ mega-hit Tonywinning musical based on the novel about the ‘other story’ of Oz and the witches Glinda and Elphaba. $80$238. Tue-Sat 8pm. Wed, Sat & Sun 2pm. Sun 7:30pm. Thru April 16. 1192 Market St. www.shnsf.com www.wickedthemusical.com

Yalitza Ferreras, Erika M. Martínez @ Modern Times Bookstore Contributors to Daring to Write: Contemporary Narratives by Dominican Women read and discuss their work. 3pm. 2919 24th St. www.mtbs.com

Sun 10 Abrazo, Queer Tango @ Finnish Brotherhood Hall, Berkeley Enjoy weekly same-sex tango dancing and a potluck, with lessons early in the day. $7-$15. 3:30-6:30pm. 1970 Chestnut St., Berkeley. (510) 8455352. www.finnishhall.com

Garden Railway @ Conservatory of Flowers Exhibit of floral displays inspired by the centennial anniversary of the 1915 Pan-Pacific World’s Expo, with SF scenes in miniature train and architectural installations with hundreds of dwarf plants. Thru April 10. Also, permanent floral displays, plants for sale, and docent tours. TueSun 10am-4pm. $2-$8. Free for SF residents. 100 JFK Drive, Golden Gate Park, 831-2090. www.conservatoryofflowers.org

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 47

Marriage Equality Anniversary Party @ Mission Cultural Center Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis (early litigants in the marriage equality fight) host a 20th anniversary party for Marriage Equality USA, with light drinks, food, photo and video presentations. Free/register online. 5pm-8pm. 2868 Mission St. www.marriageequality.org

OutLook Video @ Channel 29

Thu 7

The weekly LGBT TV show, with updates on current events. 9:30pm. www.outlookvideo.org

Oscar de la Renta @ de Young Museum Stylish new retrospective exhibit of the world-famous fashion designer’s gowns on display, as well as archival photos and materials; Thru May 30. Other exhibits of modern art as well. Free/$25. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. www.famsf.org

Pierre Bonnard @ Legion of Honor Painting Arcadia, thru May 15. Also, Sublime Beauty: Raphael’s Portrait of a Lady with a Unicorn, thru April 10; also, World in a Book, A Princely Pursuit and other exhibits. Free/$15. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. Lincoln Park, 100 34th Ave. 750-3600. www.legionofhonor.famsf.org

Altered State: Marijuana in California @ Oakland Museum The first-ever museum exhibition to focus on pot, with art, political documents, scientific displays. Thru Sept. 25. Also, Unearthed: Found + Made, featuring Jedediah Caesar’s geological sculptures; thru April 24. Free/$15. Reg. hours Wed-Sat 11am-5pm (Fri til 9pm). 1000 Oak St., Oakland. (510) 318-8400. www.museumca.org

The Addams Family @ Berkeley Playhouse

Marvin Werlin @ Strut The 86-year-old gay artist’s exhibit of paintings blend contemporary style with mythological symbolism. Thru April. 470 Castro St. www.strutsf.org

Intrude @ Civic Center Plaza Australian artist Amanda Parer’s giant white inflatable rabbit sculptures hop into town along their world tour. Joseph L. Alioto Performing Arts Piazza, Grove St. at McAllister. Thru April 25. amandaparer.com.au

Perfectly Queer @ Books Inc.

Fri 8

@ Castro Theatre

Mon 11 Color of Life @ California Academy of Sciences Exhibits and planetarium shows with various live, interactive and installed exhibits about animals, plants and the earth; new exhibit focuses on vibrantly colored species of octopus, snake fish and other live creatures. Special events each week, with adult nightlife parties many Thursday nights. $20-$35. Mon-Sat 9:30am5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org

10 Percent @ Comcast David Perry’s online & cable interviews with notable local and visiting LGBT people, broadcast through the week. www.ComcastHometown.com

Echo Brown’s hit solo show about desire and doubt moves to the company’s East Bay theatre. $20-$100. Thu 8pm Sat 8:30pm. Thru April 23. 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley. 2823055. www.themarsh.org

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus @ Davies Symphony Hall

Exhibit of paintings by local artist Jacinto Castillo depicting old San Francisco. Free/donations. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, $6-$10 ($15 includes walking tour). 398 Eddy St. 351-1912. tenderloinmuseum. org

Tales of Our City: Our Lives, Our Heroes, a special concert with choral music, the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony, and special guest Armistead Maupin reading passages of his novels. $25-$75. 8pm. Also April 15, 8pm. 201 Van Ness Ave. 392-4400. www.sfgmc.org

Tue 12

The Untamed Stage @ Hypnodrome

Vanessa Bousay @ Martuni’s The local drag chanteuse sings songs about Spring, rain and getting wet, accompanied by Tom Shaw and Roberta Drake. $15. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.martunis.ypguides.net

Thu 14

Black Virgins are Not for Hipsters @ The Marsh Berkeley Last Men Standing

San Francisco in Ruins @ Tenderloin Museum

The new musical by Scrumbly Koldewyn takes us back to Weimar-era Berlin, with a Cabaret/Cocktettes styled twoact show of songs, dances and bawdy pre-Fascist abandon, with special guest performers each night. $15. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru May 28. 575 10th St. at Bryant. 377-4202. www.hypnodrome.org

Bring It Home @ SFAC Gallery Bring It Home: (Re)Locating Cultural Legacy Through the Body, a large group exhibit of works; thru May 7. Also, Susan O’Malley’s Do More of What You Love, thru May 7; Also, Enter: 126: Coalescence by Annette Jannotta and Olivia Ting; thru Dec. 17. Free. Tue-Fri 11am-6pm. War Memorial Veterans Building, 401 Van Ness Ave. sfartscommission.org/gallery

Roman Vishniac Rediscovered @ Contemporary Jewish Museum New exhibit of photos from the prolific documenter of Jewish life in eastern Europe. Thru May 29. Bill Graham and the Rock & Roll Revolution (thru July 5). Other exhibits about Jewish culture, lectures and gallery talks as well. Free (members)-$12. Fri-Tue 11am-5pm, Thu 11am-8pm (closed Wed). 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org The political comic’s updated solo show, Elect to Laugh: 2016, adds topical jokes about the bizarre election season. $15-$100. Tuesdays, 8pm. Thru June 7. 1062 Valencia St. 282- www.themarsh.org

Wed 13 Jewelle Gomez @ City Lights Bookstore

Kevin Rolston’s Deal With the Dragon @ The Costume Shop

New exhibition showcases 120 artworks and designs by the prominent Disney animator, whose own life was full of adventures. Free (members)-$20. Thru Sept. 12. 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio. 3456800. www.waltdisney.org

The gay book group is this time themed “Troubling the Line,” with trans poets Julian Talamantez Brolaski, Gr Keer, and Zoe D. Tuck; wine, desserts and door prizes, too. 7pm. 2275 Market St. www.booksinc.net

Will Durst @ The Marsh

Fri 1

Mel Shaw: An Animator on Horseback @ Walt Disney Family Museum

Author reads from and discusses the 25th anniversary expanded edition of her classic lesbian vampire novel, The Gilda Stories. 7pm. 261 Columbus Ave. at Broadway. 362-8193. www.www.citylights.com

Science Exhibits @ The Exploratorium Visit the fascinating science museum in its new Embarcadero location. Free$25. Pier 15 at Embarcadero. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm (Thu night 6pm-10pm, 18+). 528-4893. www.exploratorium.edu

To submit event listings, email events@ebar.com Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication. For more bar and nightlife events, go to On the Tab in our BARtab section, online at www.ebar.com/bartab

<< Books

48 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Just shy of wonderful by Brian Bromberger

Lust & Wonder by Augusten Burroughs; St. Martin’s Press, $26.99 pon finishing reading Augusten Burroughs’ new memoir Lust & Wonder, the proverb “Contentment breeds mediocrity” immediately came to mind. Burroughs became famous through his two previous mind-blowing yet hilarious books, Running with Scissors (2002), essaying his bizarre family history/psychosis, being adopted by a lunatic psychiatrist who gives him drugs, and being molested by another patient; and Dry (2003), chronicling a decade later, following Burroughs’ life as a successful advertising copywriter in NY and raging alcoholic who signs up for treatment at a gay rehab center in Minnesota. Perhaps the Grand Guignol calamitous circumstances of Burroughs’ life, enlivened by his acerbic wit, couldn’t help but make those accounts so fascinating and compulsively readable. Sadly, that is not the case with Lust & Wonder, which picks up where Dry left off, with Burroughs living in NYC as a struggling freelance writer. The core of the book is Burroughs’ reflection on three major relationships he has experienced in the last two decades. The first romance is with Mitch, a famous author who wrote Burroughs’ favorite novel. He sends Mitch a fan email letter, and subsequently meets him at a restaurant, where Burroughs breaks his

sobriety with a vodka martini. This is not the only ominous sign of trouble ahead. By the fourth date, despite claiming he is madly in love, Burroughs is already calling him Secondhand Mitch, “as he looked used up already.” The chief problem is that there is no sexual chemistry between them, which they each realize privately but don’t want to acknowledge together out loud. Burroughs discovers that Mitch has assumed another name in an AOL chat room (this is the mid-1990s) and is cheating on him. But Burroughs has already had sex with an ex-boyfriend, as well as discovering he is still in love with George, a crack addict succumbing to AIDS whom we first met in Dry. Both the relationships with Mitch and George die, resulting in depression, drunken blackouts, bed-wetting, and compulsive QVC jewelry-buying binges, though through this dark interval Burroughs will write and publish his first novel Sellevision, a satire on the home shopping network. He then meets the older Dennis on a popular Internet dating site. They wait to have sex, but when they do there are no fireworks. Still this is Burroughs’ first relationship while sober, and he longs to experience it in all its dreary reality. Burroughs wants security and safety despite little to no sex. Dennis will become his business manager. Burroughs is diagnosed with ADD and prescribed Adderall to rather disastrous effect. During this period he will write his Scissors and Dry memoirs, but

he says nothing about how celebrity has impacted him, and lives through 9/11 with remarkably little comment. When asked by Burroughs, Dennis admits he is not in love with him, but being too old and tired to start again, says they should just make it work. When Burroughs emails Dennis and suggests telling him what is wrong in a letter, he receives a list several pages long about all the things he loathes about him, revealing years of pentup resentments after denying anything was amiss. Dennis recommends they see a couples therapist to save the relationship, while Burroughs wants only to break up. What Burroughs had neglected to tell Dennis was that a few months earlier he had fallen in love with his decadelong literary agent, Christopher. Burroughs was initially attracted to the blond Christopher, but was turned off finding out he was HIV-positive. But with his increasing disillusionment about Dennis and with Christopher’s bout with cancer, Burroughs realizes how much he cares about his best friend. He sends a long email relaying his infatuation to the reluctant Christopher, who in a short time admits he feels similarly about Burroughs. They have sex three times a day, with Burroughs finally discovering the importance of passion in a relationship. Meanwhile,

Dennis and Christopher had become friends through the years, and Burroughs unchivalrously sends Christopher to tell Dennis they had fallen in love. Augusten and Christopher will wed in 2013. So what Burroughs was really seeking all these years was sobriety, stability, a husband, and long-term happiness or contentment, which is wonderful for Burroughs at age 50, but not very exciting for his audience. Hence the aforementioned mediocrity, both in tone and execution. Because Burroughs is always

the outspoken raconteur, Lust and Wonder comes with his trademark humor (mostly in the Mitch section) and brutally frank observations though sparse self-reflection. It’s sporadically well-written but hardly gripping, with the last third being totally predictable, probably fulfilling the worst assimilationist nightmares of same-sex marriage opponents. Gay readers might appreciate his dissection of falling in and out of love, and undoubtedly relate to staying in lousy, unfulfilling sexless relationships well past their expiration date, but whether they will care about the excessively meticulous plight of two wealthy middle-aged men living with their three dogs in a 200-year-old house in rural Connecticut, where Burroughs obsessively collects and sells expensive vintage and estate jewelry, is rather questionable. Also, this confession is worrying: “The manuscript for my current book was late. When I typed, only gibberish came out. But if I didn’t turn in a manuscript, there would be no money.” While fans will be pleased that Burroughs, after much travail, has found domestic bliss, overall Lust and Wonder is a disappointment. In fact, it lacks both lust and wonder.t

in 2008, is profiled in Rich Kienzle’s book The Grand Tour: The Life and Music of George Jones (Dey Street). New novel ideas: Said to encompass the full spectrum of gay life through the disco era into the age of AIDS, Our Young Man (Bloomsbury), by prolific gay literary legend Edmund White, tells the tale of handsome Guy, a Frenchman who becomes the toast of the fashion world and Fire Island. Some Go Hungry (Kaylie Jones Books/Akashic) by J. Patrick Redmond is a gay murder mystery that takes readers from Miami Beach, Florida to Fort Sackville, Indiana, as Grey Daniels “struggles to live his authentic, openly gay life” amidst the fundamentalist Christians in his hometown. In Case of Emergency: Break Glass (Queens Ferry), three novellas by poet and fiction writer Sarah Van Arsdale, goes “from the far-flung to the far gone” to answer questions about identity and relationships. The GJS II (Quote Editions) of the title of Lambda Literary Award winner Shawn Stewart Ruff ’s third novel is Griffin Jewells Saunders II, the man at the center of this

Clinton-era thriller promising “tabloid intrigue, high-fashion passion and murder.” Award-winning gay writer Paul Russell’s second novel, Boys of Life (Cleis Press), about “country boy” Tony’s journey from Kentucky to New York to an “inside wet cell,” has been reissued for readers who might have missed it the first time around. In Without Annette (Scholastic Press), writer Jane B. Mason’s Y/A debut, girlfriends Josie and Annette attend Brookwood, an esteemed boarding school far from home, where they must face a series of unexpected challenges that threatens everything, not least of which is their relationship. A combined work of mystery fiction and semi-autobiographical memoir, Grant Spradling’s David Goes Home (Hamaca Press), subtitled Growing Up Gay In the Dust Bowl, follows the title character’s “nightmarish search for the murderer of his hometown sheriff ” and what he learns about the residents of his Oklahoma birthplace. Set in a time before there were openly gay jazz artists such as Patricia Barber, Gary Burton, Andy Bey, Terri Lyne Carrington or Lea DeLaria, The Jazz Palace (Anchor) by Mary Morris, now in paperback, takes readers back to 1920s Chicago, where two musicians, Jewish Benny and African-American Napoleon, “navigate the highs and lows of the Jazz Age.” As more and more queer folks choose to be parents, childbirth becomes an increasingly common event, and Eleven Hours (Tin House) by Pamela Erens depicts the process through the eyes of two women, in-labor Lore and pregnant nurse Franckline.t

Spring 2016 bookcase by Gregg Shapiro

pring is here, and with the change in seasons comes new life in bloom. Nowhere is that truer than on the shelves of your local bookseller, where a virtual garden of new titles is just waiting to be picked. Words and pictures: With a foreword by Boy George, Damien Frost’s Night Flowers: From AvantDrag to Extreme Haute Couture (Merrell) features artist/ photographers’ stunning portraits of the “loose-knit community of drag queens and kings, club kids, alternative queer, transgender, and gender-queer people, goths, artists, and cabaret, burlesque and fetish performers who bloom at night and burn bright among the neon lights of inner-city London.” Stonewall Book Award-winning straight author Kirstin Cronn-Mills teams up with illustrator/comic book artist E. Eero Johnson for Original Fake (Putnam), a Y/A novel with graphic panels for readers of all ages about Frankie’s attempt to make his own mark in a family of attention-grabbers. Golden Girls Forever (Harper Design), subtitled An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai, is Jim Colucci’s reverent “complete, first-ever Golden Girls retrospective,” inviting readers inside the “wicker wonderland,” including exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories and photos, making it an essential companion to the enduring sitcom. Commissioned by the Arcus Foundation, award-winning photographer Jenny Papalexandris’ photo book Five Bells (The New Press) illustrates what “being

LGBT in Australia” means through images of weddings, family gettogethers, the LGBT Mardi Gras parade and more. Books of love: Read Love Wins: The Lovers and Lawyers Who Fought the Landmark Case for Marriage Equality (William Morrow) by Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Debbie Cenziper and Jim Obergefell, the definitive account of the dramatic and previously unreported events leading up to Obergefell v. Hodges, the milestone case regarding the legalization of same-sex marriage, before it’s made into a movie with a screenplay by Chris Weitz. Love Unites Us: Winning the Freedom to Marry in America (The New Press), edited by Kevin M. Cathcart and Leslie J. Gabel-Brett, includes essays by Evan Wolfson, Paula L. Ettlebrick, Mary L. Bonauto, the ACLU’s Matt Coles, as well as a foreword by Eric Holder. Books of life: In Architecture’s Odd Couple (Bloomsbury Press), the lives and careers of two quirky but brilliant 20th-century architects, Frank Lloyd Wright and openly gay Philip Johnson, described as

possessing “restless creativity, enormous charisma” and a penchant for being outspoken, are examined by writer Hugh Howard. Lita Ford, who as a member of all-female rock group The Runaways, shared the stage with queer music marvel Joan Jett, and later went on to have a successful solo career, tells her story in the memoir Living Like a Runaway (Dey Street), featuring a foreword by Dee Snider of Twisted Sister. “Is there an unforgettable song that changed your life?” is the question that NPR’s All Songs Considered host and creator Bob Boilen posed to queer artists such as Carrie Brownstein, Michael Stipe (of REM), Courtney Barnett, St. Vincent, Jonsi (of Sigur Ros), as well as straight musicians including Leon Bridges, Jeff Tweedy (of Wilco), David Byrne, Lucinda Williams and Cat Power, for his book Your Song Changed My Life (Morrow), and the answers are nothing less than fascinating. The late country music and honky-tonk superstar George Jones, who received his Kennedy Center Honors alongside Barbra Streisand

<< DVD

50 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Haunting Thai gay ghost story by Tim Pfaff

he basic Thai movie diet is 70% ghost/horror story (indistinguishable), 15% teen romance and 15% whoopee-cushion slapstick comedy. I know the movies mostly from previews, which in all genres make my hair stand on end. But as I incline to condescend, I’m also aware that the reason is that it’s not just what the Thai audience has been conditioned to want, but it is what it does want and will pay (less) for. Although cell-phone selfentertainment is cutting the same gouge into the market it’s doing everywhere else, these movies are popular. So when a film like The Blue Hour (original Thai title Onthakan), which combines the first two genres with taste and intelligence, comes along, it gets my attention. Unless very stoned, the typical American audience simply wouldn’t sit still for the typical Thai film. But Strand

Releasing, which is issuing The Blue Hour on DVD for an Anglophone audience with subtitles, has reason to suspect this film will have legs. I make the distinction between movie and film deliberately. The lack of any dialogue until eight minutes into this moody film is the first clue that it’s the work of one of Thailand’s growing number of young independent filmmakers, many of whom are gay. Here, director Anucha Boonyawatana signals his place among them in a myriad ways, including a handful of visual quotations of the work of international-award-winner Apichatpong Weerasetakhul, particularly his Tropical Malady. This is not merely copycatting of that pan-Asian whatintellectual-property-rights? variety. When the boys drive down the empty highway on Phum’s motorcycle at night, it’s flat-out homage. Even the cute stars offer more than Grindr profile pix. There’s sweeter eye candy underneath every

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kissing-averse lower classes, tries to plant one on Tam, who recoils not from distaste but because his mouth, bleeding, hurts. The odds of a Thai of any class wanting to liplock with someone whose receiving lip is bleeding are too small to calculate, but what’s signaled is that, with Tam and Phum, something’s happening here. The depiction of young Thai gayboy romance in Thai movies – largely greeted with giggles that indicate unspoken approval for the serious consideration of gays as more than ladyboys (kathoy), a staple of Thai entertainment – hits a new stride with The Blue Hour. The boys talk with friends and family about the

difficulty their gayness causes, a discussion far more advanced than it might seem to a Western audience. But despite the shame and bloodshed entailed, the film is clear that neither of the boys ever seriously considers going back in the closet. I mean if Henry James wrote ghost stories, let’s not turn up our noses. That said, the believability factor in the standard Thai ghost movie is sufficiently low that you get that the main purpose is frightening girlfriends into their boyfriends’ arms at the theater. For boys, and most Westerners, the response is more likely revulsion than horror. The Blue Hour scared the pants off me. There’s everything sinister about the dirty swimming pool and its backroom bathrooms, and about the huge garbage dump in the countryside that once was Phum’s family land, done out of them in a swindle. But there’s nothing an audience anywhere wouldn’t get, and to recount it would involve wanton spoilers. The stunning cinematography (Chaiyapruek Chalermpornpanich) and masterful soundtrack (Chapavich “Phil” Temnitikul), which follows the Apichatpong practice of relying on ambient sound more than music, but uses an original score chillingly, are storytellers in their own right. It’s not makeweight when Phum keeps asking Tam, “Are you afraid?” Tam learns to admit that he is. I was, and I thought I’d be the last to fall for it.t

Triangle award finalists announced

THE LGBT BEST OF THE BAY

Steven Underhill

other reversed baseball cap in the country, but Atthaphan “Gun” Poonsawas (Tam) and Oabnithi Wiwattanawarang (Phum) have the kinds of looks that grow on you rather than losing their allure. Coached amateur actors, they don’t have the ad-agency insipidity you see everywhere. While neither of their characters represents an extreme end of the economic divide, part of what makes the film work is that the romance is just cross-class enough that there’s a whiff of a love relationship at work. This is far less common than you might think; the practice of arranged marriage has a long and deep trickle-down throughout Asia. Narrative integrity and dramatic long line are not high values in Asian cinema, and to the Western sensibility the storyline of The Blue Hour lurches, leaving much unexplained and transitions unaccounted for. Mai bpen arai (never mind), as really is said here in Bangkok constantly. Phum and Tam have met online, and Phum has made an assignation for their hookup at a filthy, abandoned swimming pool. Tam shows up with a bloodied face and torso contusions, having come fresh from having been beaten up, altogether credible playground bullying at his private school. The virtual taboo against kissing is breaking down rapidly with the onset of Western norms, but still it’s startling that Phum, from the particularly

he 28th Annual Triangle Awards, honoring the best LGBT fiction, nonfiction, and poetry published in 2015, as well as the year’s best trans and gender-variant literature, will be presented on April 21, 2016, in New York City. Eloise Klein Healy is the 2016 recipient of the Publishing Triangle’s Bill Whitehead Award for Lifetime Achievement. She is the author of eight books of poetry and three spoken word recordings, named the first Poet Laureate of Los Angeles in 2012. She is the founding editor of Arktoi Books, an imprint of Red Hen Press specializing in the work of lesbian authors. A Wild Surmise: New & Selected Poems & Recordings is her latest book. Finalists for the Publishing Triangle Award for Trans and GenderVariant Literature: The Argonauts, by Maggie Nelson (Graywolf Press); Debridement, by Corrina Bain (Great Weather for Media); The Middle Notebookes, by Nathanaël (Nightboat Books); Trans/Portraits: Voices from Transgender Communities, by Jackson Wright Schultz (Dartmouth College Press). Finalists for the Judy Grahn Award for Lesbian Nonfiction: Dirty River: A Queer Femme of Color Dreaming Her Way Home, by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha (Arsenal Pulp Press); The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle, by Lillian Faderman (Simon and Schuster); Honor Girl, by Maggie Thrash (Candlewick Press); No One Helped: Kitty Genovese, New York City, and the Myth of Urban Apathy, by Marcia M. Gallo

(Cornell University Press). Finalists for the Randy Shilts Award for Gay Nonfiction: Frank: A Life in Politics from the Great Society to Same-Sex Marriage, by Barney Frank (Farrar, Straus and Giroux); A House in St. John’s Wood: In Search of My Parents, by Matthew Spender (Farrar, Straus and Giroux); It’s Not Over: Getting Beyond Tolerance, Defeating Homophobia, and Winning True Equality, by Michelangelo Signorile (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt); Visions and Revisions: Coming of Age in the Age of AIDS by Dale Peck (Soho Press) Finalists for the Audre Lorde Award for Lesbian Poetry: Bodymap, by Leah Lakshmi PiepznaSamarasinha (Mawenzi House/ TSAR); Fanny Says, by Nickole Brown (BOA Editions); Life in a Box

Is a Pretty Life, by Dawn Lundy Martin (Nightboat Books); No Confession, No Mass, by Jennifer Perrine (University of Nebraska Press). Finalists for the Thom Gunn Award for Gay Poetry: Boy with Thorn, by Rickey Laurentiis (University of Pittsburgh Press); Chord, by Rick Barot (Sarabande Books); Farther Traveler, by Ronaldo V. Wilson (Counterpath Press); The Spectral Wilderness derness, by Oliver Bendorf (Kent State University Press). Finalists for the Edmund White Award for Debut Fiction Fiction: Blue Talk and Love, by Mecca Jamilah Sullivan (Riverdale Avenue Books); Bright Lines Lines, by Tanwi Nandini Islam (Penguin Books); Hotel Living, by Ioannis Pappos (Harper Perennial); One Hundred Days of Rain Rain, by Carellin Brooks (BookThug). Finalists for the Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBT Fiction: After the Parade, by Lori Ostlund (Scribner); JD, by Mark Merlis (Terrace Books/ University of Wisconsin Press); A Little Life, by Hanya Yanagihara (Doubleday); A Poet of the Invisible World, by Michael Golding (Picador); Under the Udala Trees, by Chinelo Okparanta (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). Christopher Street magazine is the winner of the Publishing Triangle’s Leadership Award. Since the magazine is defunct, the award will go to its founders and editors: Charles Ortleb was the publisher and first editor; Patrick Merla followed as editor; he in turn was succeeded by Tom Steele; Michael Denneny was top advisor.t

Books>>

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 51

Here come the Lammies

Yo-Yo Labs; Girls Like You, Margot Douaihy, Clemson U. Press; Life in a Box is a Pretty Life, Dawn Lundy Martin, Nightboat Press; Pelvis with Distance, Jessica Jacobs, White Pine Press; Say/Mirror: Poems and Histories, JP Howard, The Operating System; Shorthand and Electric Language Stars, Stephanie Gray, Portable Press@Yo-Yo Labs. Gay Poetry: Angel Park, Roberto F. Santiago, Lethe Press/Tincture; Boy with Thorn, Rickey Laurentiis, U. of Pittsburgh Press; Canto Hondo/Deep Song, Francisco X. Alarcón, U. of Arizona Press; Crevasse, Nicholas Wong, Kaya Press; Otter, Ben Ladouceur, Coach House Books; Reconnaissance, Carl Phillips, Farrar, Straus and Giroux; Steep Tea, Jee Leong Koh, Carcanet; Teaching a Man to Unstick His Tail, Ralph Hamilton, Sibling Rivalry Press.

Transgender Poetry: Why Dust Shall Never Settle Upon This Soul, Ryka Aoki, Biyuti Publishing; Impersonation, Joy Ladin, The Sheep Meadow Press; succubus in my pocket, kari edwards, EOAGH Books. Lesbian Mystery: The Grave Soul, Ellen Hart, Minotaur Books; Illicit Artifacts, Stevie Mikayne, Bold Strokes Books; Ordinary Mayhem, Victoria Brownworth, Bold Stroke Books; No Good Reason, Cari Hunger, Bold Strokes Books; The Red Files, Lee Winter, Ylva Publishing; Relatively Rainey, R.E. Bradshaw, R.E. Bradshaw Books; Tarnished Gold, Ann Aptaker, Bold Strokes Books; The Tattered Heiress: Volume Two of the Charlotte Olmes Mystery Series, Debra Hyde, Riverdale Avenue Books. Gay Mystery: After the Horses, Jeffrey Round, Dundurn; The Boys from Eighth and Carpenter, Tom Mendicino, Kensington Publishing; Boystown 7: Bloodlines, Marshall Thornton, Kenmore Books; Cheap as Beasts, Jonathon Wilson, Bold Strokes Books; Introducing Sunfish & Starfish: Tropical Drag Queen Detectives, Wallace Godfrey, Strand Hill Books; Murder and Mayhem, Rhys Ford, Dreamspinner Press; Orient, Christopher Bollen, Harper; The Swede, Robert Karjel, Harper. Lesbian Memoir/Biography: Cooking as Fast as I Can: A Chef’s Story of Family, Food, and Forgiveness, Cat Cora, Scribner; Dirty River, Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha, Arsenal Pulp Press; Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl, Carrie

Brownstein, Riverhead Books/Penguin Random House; Objects in the Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear, Kate Carroll de Gutes, Ovenbird Books; You’re Not Edith, Allison Gruber, George Braziller. Gay Memoir/Biography: Chasing Lost Time: C.K. Scott Moncrieff: Soldier, Spy, and Translator, Jean Findlay, Farrar, Straus and Giroux; Exiled for Love: The Journey of an Iranian Queer Activist, Arsham Parsi and Marc Colbourne, Roseway Publishing; The House in St. John’s Wood, Matthew Spender, Farrar, Straus and Giroux; James Merrill: Life and Art, Langdon Hammer, Alfred A. Knopf; My Avant-Garde Education: A Memoir, Bernard Cooper, W.W. Norton & Company; My Body Is Yours, Michael V. Smith, Arsenal Pulp Press; Smash Cut, Brad Gooch, Harper; Until My Heart Stops, Jameson Currier, Chelsea Station Editions. Lesbian Romance: Autumn Spring, Shelley Thrasher, Bold Strokes Books; The Chameleon’s Tale, Andrea Bramhall, Bold Strokes Books; Full Circle, Dillon Watson, Bella Books; Heart of the Game, Rachel Spangler, Bold Strokes Books; Infiltration, Jackie D, Bold Strokes Books; Making a Comeback, Julie Blair, Bold Strokes Books; My Best Friend’s Girl, Blythe H. Warren, Bella Books; The Renegade, Amy Dunne, Bold Strokes Books. Gay Romance: Blueberry Boys, Vanessa North, Riptide Publishing; Brothers, Ralph Josiah Bardsley, Bold Strokes Books; For Real, Alexis Hall, Riptide Publishing; General Misconduct, L.A. Witt, Samhain Publishing; Misfits, Garrett Leigh, Riptide Publishing; Something Like Stories, Volume One, Jay Bell, Jay Bell Books; When Skies Have Fallen, Debbie McGowan, Beaten Track; Yes, Brad Boney, Dreamspinner Press. Lesbian Erotica: Desire Behind Bars: Lesbian Prison Erotica, Salome Wilde and Talon Rihai (editors), Hillside Press; The Muse, Meghan O’Brien, Bold Strokes Books; Sweet & Rough: Queer Kink Erotica, Sinclair Sexsmith, Maverick Press. Gay Erotica: Charming: Modern Gay Fairytales, Jennifer Levine and Rian Darcy, Circlet Press; College Dive Bar, 1 AM, Natty Soltesz, Go Deeper Press; Érotiques Suprèmes, Miodrag Kojadinovic, Choose the Sword Press; Grave Desires, William Holden, Lethe Press; Green Eyes - an erotic novel (sort-of), Michael Ampersant, Lust Spiel Book. LGBT Anthology: Beyond: The Queer Sci-Fi & Fantasy Comic Anthology, Sfé R. Monster (Editor) & Taneka Stotts (Assistant Editor), Beyond Press; Glitter and Grit: Queer Performance from the Heels on Wheels Femme Galaxy, Edited by Damien Luxe, Heather M. Ács, and Sabina Ibarrola, Publication Studio; Memories of the Revolution, Holly Hughes, Carmelita Tropicana, and Jill Dolan, Editors, U. of Michigan Press; Out of the Closet, Into the Archives: Researching Sexual Histories, Amy L. Stone and Jaime Cantrell, See page 52 >>

2pub-BBB_BAR_040716.pdf

3/14/16

4:07 PM

CMY

he 28th Annual Lambda Literary Award Finalists have been announced. The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony on Monday evening, June 6, 2016, in New York City. Lesbian Fiction: Apocalypse Baby, Virginie Despentes, The Feminist Press; Blue Talk and Love, Mecca Jamilah Sullivan, Riverdale Avenue Books; The Cherokee Rose, Tiya Miles, John F. Blair; The First Bad Man, Miranda July, Scribner; Jam on the Vine: A Novel, LaShonda Katrice Barnett, Grove Press; Like a Woman, Debra Busman, Dzanc Books; Thérèse and Isabelle, Violette Leduc, The Feminist Press; Under the Udala Trees, Chinelo Okparanta, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Gay Fiction: Breathing Lessons, Andy Sinclair, Véhicule Press; The Early Stories of Truman Capote, Truman Capote, Random House; God in Pink, Hasan Namir, Arsenal Pulp Press; Immaculate Blue, Paul Russell, Cleis Press; JD: A Novel, Mark Merlis, Terrace Books; A Poet of the Invisible World, Michael Golding, Macmillan/Picador; The Rise and Fall of the Yellow House, John Whittier Treat, Big Table Publishing Company; Still Life, Las Vegas, James Sie, St. Martin’s Press. Bisexual Literature (Fiction & Nonfiction): Irrepressible: The Jazz Age Life of Henrietta Bingham, Emily Bingham, Farrar, Straus and Giroux; The Life and Death of Sophie Stark, Anna North, Penguin Random House/Blue Rider Press; The Gap of Time, Jeanette Winterson, Hogarth; Eat My Heart Out, Zoe Pilger, The Feminist Press; My Riastrad, Kevin Hogan, Antrim House. Transgender Fiction: Defiant, Michael Scott Monje, Jr., Autonomous Press; Lost Boi, Sassafras Lowry, Arsenal Pulp Press; Tiny Pieces of Skull, or a Lesson in Manners, Roz Kaveny, Team Anjelica Publishing. LGBT Debut Fiction: The Brink, Austin Bunn, Harper Perennial; Do U., Mark S. Luckie, Amazon/ CreateSpace; His Steadfast Love and Other Stories, Paul Brownsey, Lethe Press; Hotel Living, Ioannis Pappos, Harper Perennial; Life is Wonderful, People are Terrific, Meliza Bañales, Ladybox Books; A Love Like Blood, Victor Yates, Hillmont Press; Lovesick, James Driggers, Kensington Publishing; Lum: A Novel, Libby Ware, She Writes Press. LGBT Nonfiction: Considering Hate: Violence, Goodness, and Justice in American Culture and Politics, Kay Whitlock and Michael Bronski, Beacon Press; Fading Scars: My Queer Disability History, Corbett Joan O’Toole, Autonomous Press; Galileo’s Middle Finger: Heretics, Activists, and the Search for Justice in Science, Alice Dreger, Penguin Press; The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle, Lillian Faderman, Simon & Schuster; Modern Families: Stories of Extraordinary Journeys to Kinship, Joshua Gamson, NYU Press; Namibia’s Rainbow Project, Robert Lorway, Indiana U. Press; “No One Helped”: Kitty Genovese, New York City, and the Myth of Urban Apathy, Marcia M. Gallo, Cornell U. Press; What Color Is Your Hoodie? Essays on Black Gay Identity, Jarrett Neal, Chelsea Station Editions. Transgender Nonfiction: Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family, Amy Ellis Nutt, Random House; Born on the Edge of Race and Gender: A Voice for Cultural Competency, Willy Wilkinson, Hapa Papa Press; Hiding in Plain Sight, Zane Thimmesch-Gill, Avenue Books. Lesbian Poetry: The Devastation, Melissa Buzzeo, Nightboat Books; Everybody’s Bread, Claudia Rodriguez, Korima Press; Experience in the Medium of Destruction, Sara Jane Stoner, Portable Press@

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<< Fine Art

52 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Dancers We Lost

From page 33

The show, which utilizes an assortment of documents, snapshots, videos, home movies and kinetic photographs of the supremely athletic, graceful, caught-in-mid-air variety – about half of them publicity stills – looks at 27 dancers in their prime from the worlds of jazz, modern, tap and ballet. Ed Mock, a respected local teacher, modern dancer and choreographer, partial to dance-theater and elaborate costumes, one of which he wears in a picture here, is among them, as is Billy Wilson, who appeared in the London production of West Side Story and choreographed the musical Bubbling Brown Sugar. His towering image is displayed in the museum’s window. The emotionally expressive, lightning-quick virtuoso Edward “Eddie” Stierle, once a member of the Joffrey Ballet with a bright future ahead of him, is the youngest casualty; he perished at 23. If the scale of this well-researched exhibit is modest, its aspirations and value are anything but. The virtue of shows like this one is that they can make the loss of creative vitality tangible and keenly felt. “There’s an absence,” observed curator and historian Glenne McElhinney during a recent interview. “They disappeared, and not enough is remembered about them, and though they may not have been forgotten by their students, fellow dancers and the audiences who saw them perform, they are lost to history. This show is a way of honoring them and bringing them back to life.” McElhinney, who specializes in what she calls “hidden histories,” is the founder of Impact Stories, a California-based project that uses oral histories,

Lammies

From page 51

SUNY Press; A Pride of Poppies: Modern GLBTQI fiction of the Great War, Julie Bozza, editor, Manifold Press; Soy Lesbiana y Que! Out Latina Lesbians, Nívea Castro with Geny Cabral, Sinister Wisdom; Speak My Language, and Other Stories: An Anthology of Gay Fiction, Edited by Torsten Højer, Little, Brown Book Group/Robinson; Videogames for Humans: Twine Authors in Conversation, Merritt Kopas, Instar Books. LGBT Children’s/Young Adult: About a Girl: A Novel, Sarah

Castro Theatre

From page 38

Dana Andrews is the detective who becomes emotionally involved with the mysterious dead Laura (Gene Tierney). Vincent Price and Clifton Webb are outstanding in supporting roles. According to gay critic Vito Russo, “In the original script, numerous allusions to the homosexuality of [gossip columnist] Waldo Lydecker were cut before shooting began. It was widely acknowledged that Preminger had to fight to get Clifton Webb for the role because the studio brass had labeled him a homosexual.” Mike’s Murder (1984) James Bridges directs Debra Winger in

Ken Howard

Michael Cappara (1949-88), from Dancers We Lost: Honoring Performers Lost to HIV/AIDS, at the GLBT History Museum in San Francisco.

Marty Sohl

Christopher Boatwright (1954-97), from Dancers We Lost: Honoring Performers Lost to HIV/AIDS, at the GLBT History Museum in San Francisco.

died at the age of 46. Prior to those gigs, Peters had danced with Talley Beatty, Fred Benjamin and Alvin Ailey, the latter a giant in the modern dance world who shepherded Judith Jamison, and choreographed Revelations, a suite of rousing dances set to spirituals and blues that was an exhilarating experience for audiences lucky enough to see it. But before he founded the largely African-American company that bears his name, Ailey performed in nightclubs in and around San Francisco’s Western Addition and Fillmore for a few years in the early 1950s. It was during this period that he befriended and performed with Zack Thompson, a ballet-trained jazz dancer to whom the exhibition is dedicated. “I fell in love with Zack’s story while researching the history of 330 Grove, a beloved [gay] community center in San Francisco [in the 1970s] that was demolished to make way for a parking lot,” recalls McElhinney. “Zack had a dance studio on the second floor there in the late 1960s and was an extremely talented dancer. His story is of the struggle of being a black, gay dancer, and the triumph of dancing and teaching all over the world, only to tragically die of HIV/AIDS complications in 1996.” McElhinney is currently producing a short film about him. All of McElhinney’s project materials will eventually go to the San Francisco Museum of Performance + Design, where they’ll complement files assembled by MPD’s gay founder, Russell Hartley, and Jeffrey Friedman’s Oral Histories from HIV-positive dancers.t

documentary films and exhibits to make LGBT cultural history more widely available, especially to younger viewers. Brief biographies of the dancers, printed in free brochures that can be picked up at the museum’s reception desk, illustrate the truism that the talent and the creative impulse can blossom in unlikely places. K. Craig Innes, for example,

a successful dancer on Broadway and in Hollywood, was a Redwood City native who first performed on the rotating stage at the Circle Star Theater in San Carlos. Steve Merritt, the choreographer of Vegas-style acts for Sammy Davis, Jr. Liza Minnelli, and Beach Blanket Babylon (for several years), as well as the L.A. incarnation of the Chippendales show, hails from San Jose.

Some were major players in the entertainment industry, like Michael Peters, the wildly talented, award-winning choreographer behind Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking Thriller and West Side Story-influenced Beat It music videos. He also shared a 1982 Tony Award with Michael Bennett (A Chorus Line) for his work on the Broadway musical Dreamgirls. He

McCarry, St. Martin’s Griffin; Anything Could Happen, Will Walton, Push; Gay and Lesbian History for Kids: The Century-Long Struggle for LGBT Rights, Jerome Pohlen, Chicago Review Press; George, Alex Gino, Scholastic Press; The Marvels, Brian Selznick, Scholastic Press; More Happy than Not, Adam Silvera, Soho Teen; None of the Above, IW Gregorio, Balzer + Bray/ Harper Collins; Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda, Becky Albertalli, Balzer + Bray/Harper Collins. LGBT Drama: Bright Half Life, Tanya Barfield, Dramatists Play Service; Fun Home, Music by Jeanine

Tesori, Book and Lyrics by Lisa Kron, based on the graphic novel by Alison Bechdel, Samuel French; Hir, Taylor Mac, Northwestern U. Press; Love Alone, Deborah Salem Smith, Dramatists Play Service; The Mystery of Love and Sex, Bathsheba Doran, Samuel French. LGBT Graphic Novels: Curveball, Jeremy Sorese, Nobrow; Honor Girl, Maggie Thrash, Candlewick Press; The Less than Epic Adventures of TJ & Amala, EK Weaver, Iron Circus Comics; O Human Star: Volume One, Blue Delliquanti, selfpublished; Wuvable Oaf, Ed Luce, Fantagraphics Books.

LGBT SF/F/Horror: The Boys on the Mountain, John Inman, DSP Publications; The Caphenon (Chronicles of Alsea - Book #1), Fletcher DeLancey, Ylva Publishing; Down, Ally Blue, Riptide Publishing; The Glittering World, Robert Levy, Gallery Books; The Gracekeepers, Kirsty Logan, Crown Publishers; Minotaur, J.A. Rock, Riptide Publishing; Sacrati, Kate Sherwood, Riptide Publishing; Wonder City Stories, Jude McLaughlin, Createspace. LGBT Studies: Arresting Dress: Cross-Dressing, Law, and Fascination in Nineteenth-Century San Francisco, Clare Sears, Duke U.

Press; Funk the Erotic: Transaesthetics and Black Sexual Cultures, L.H. Stallings, U. of Illinois; Gay Fathers, Their Children, and the Making of Kinship, Aaron Goodfellow, Fordham U. Press; Indifference to Difference: On Queer Universalism, Madhavi Menon, U. of Minnesota Press; Not Gay: Sex between Straight White Men, Jane Ward, NYU Press; Queer Marxism in Two Chinas, Petrus Liu, Duke U. Press; A Taste for Brown Bodies: Gay Modernity and Cosmopolitan Desire, Hiram Pérez, NYU Press; Thinking Sex with the Early Moderns, Valerie Traub, U. of Pennsylvania Press.t

this neglected minor classic about a lonely bank clerk’s attempt to discover why her boyfriend was brutally murdered. Note a brief turn by Paul Winfield as a gay man who has an amusing theory about the Mafia’s role in promoting homophobia. (both 4/18) Born Free (1966) Wildlife trackers Bill Travers and Virginia McKenna return Elsa the Lioness to the wild in the classic animallovers feel-good romp. McKeena appears in person in support of the animal rescue work of her foundation. With Not Without Us, part of San Francisco Green Film Festival. (4/20) Love and Friendship (2016), the 59th San Francisco International

Film Festival Opening Night. Whit Stillman directs this 1790s Ireland romantic drama starring Kate Beckinsale as a pushy commoner seeking to hoist herself into the ruling class. (4/21) Miss Sharon Jones! (2016) Oscar-winning doc-maker Barbara Kopple explores a South Carolina musical diva’s struggle against cancer and to make it big on the Beacon Theatre stage. Author: The JT Leroy Story (2016) Jeff Feuerzeig’s doc promises to get to the bottom of the literary flap. (both 4/22) Cast a Dark Shadow (2016) Dirk Bogarde is a murderous cad who kills older women for their money. The film provides his downfall at

the hands of Margaret Lockwood and Kay Walsh. Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World (2016) Director Werner Herzog presents the history of the World Wide Web. (both 4/23) The Man Who Knew Infinity (2016) Indian film star Dev Patel appears as a young man who encounters prejudice during his studies at WWI-era Cambridge. Monsoon Wedding (2001) Mira Nair directed and Sabrina Dhawan wrote this romantic drama that unfolds at a traditional Punjabi Hindu wedding in Delhi. Winner of the Golden Lion award and recipient of a Golden Globe Award nomination. The Fixer (2016) Ian Olds directs this drama about a retired war

correspondent who runs into trouble after taking a job at small Northern California newspaper. (all three, 4/24) The SF International Film Fest honors the Criterion Collection, and in this connection features an onstage chat with directors Joel and Ethan Coen followed by a screening of their first feature, Blood Simple. The Family Fang (2016) Jason Bateman adapts and stars, based on the popular novel about a brother and sister searching for their missing parents. High-Rise (2016) Based on J.G. Ballard’s science-fiction novel about the importance of identity in an oddly run high-rise tower. (all three, 4/30)t

was something of a creative maniac, and perhaps the best archival film clip is a scene from his production of The Taming of the Shrew. Marc Singer, as the Kate-taming Petruchio, expounds on gender issues as he maneuvers Fredi Olster’s Katherina around his body as if she were a snake being charmed.” – “Theatrical zeitgeist,” review of Stage Left: A Story of Theater in San Francisco, by Richard Dodds, Bay Area Reporter, Nov. 1, 2012.

Rice (Riso Amaro), now out on a Criterion Collection DVD, arts writer Tavo Amador turns his attention to Italian films made by Neorealist directors during the post-WWII period. One of those filmmakers, the openly gay Luchino Visconti, also directed the first Italian stage production of A Streetcar Named Desire, starring Vittorio Gassman as Stanley. Playwright Tennessee Williams commented admiringly on opening night, “I have never seen pants that tight on a man before!” Special Bestie award for costume design!t

/lgbtsf

Out There

From page 34

Best Theatre Company

American Conservatory Theater

(Runners up: Aurora Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, New Conservatory Theatre Center, Ray of Light Theatre, Theatre Rhinoceros) “Soon Bill Ball was moving his Pittsburgh-based American Conservatory Theater to San Francisco. Ball

Last word

With this week’s review of Bitter

Runs through Aug. 7 at the GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th St., SF. For more information on the project, check out dancerswelost. org.

Photography: ©Troy Dean Wardlow | Design: Cesar Sanchez

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550 Barneveld Ave San Francisco, CA

SUNDAYS 5:00–10:30pm (lessons 5:30–7:15pm)

Admission $5 21 and over w/ ID

/sundancesaloon

@SFSundance

www.sundancesaloon.org

<< TV

54 • BAY AREA REPORTER • April 7-13, 2016

Ramping up the excitement on TV by Victoria A. Brownworth

pril is the cruelest month, quoth Eliot. He’s not wrong. As the Daily Donald Trump Show continues on every network 24/7, we need TV more than ever. But we’ve had some moments of disappointment from our chosen side of the aisle as well, notably Bernie Sanders telling our lesbian friend Rachel Maddow on March 30 that he wasn’t going to be raising money for Democratic candidates. This was a blow to many Sanders supporters and Democrats who are hoping to regain the Senate along with holding onto the White House come November. Sanders has a prodigious fundraising campaign and has out-raised Hillary Clinton five months in a row. Maddow asked if he would address the down ticket as Clinton has been doing, raising money for Democrats like Tammy Duckworth, Kamala Harris and Donna Edwards, and campaigning for them as well. Sanders said he was focusing all his money and energy on becoming the presidential nominee. The importance of regaining the Senate has been made clear by the behavior of the GOP. The latest stunts from the billionaire GOP frontrunner included being on every network on March 30 standing up for his campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski, charged with battery of reporter Michelle Fields. Trump has also said that punishing women for abortions would be necessary after Roe v. Wade was repealed under his presidency. Oh, and in the Town Hall interview with Hardball’s Chris Matthews, he tossed out that he was leaving nuclear weapons on the table with Iran, ISIS and North Korea. We assume Megyn Kelly could not be ruled out. Trump’s comments have been so over-the-top, his closest rival, Sen. Ted Cruz, was left to opine about Trump on Jimmy Kimmel Live March 30. When asked by Kimmel whom he liked better, Pres. Obama or Trump. Cruz replied, “I dislike Obama’s policies more, but I will say Donald is a unique individual.” Cruz followed a guest who had shown viewers how to scare a friend on April Fool’s Day by taping a photo of Trump to the back of the friend’s car, covering the back-up camera. This was pretty funny. Cruz joked, “If I were in my car and getting ready to reverse, and I saw Donald in my back-up camera, I’m not confident which pedal I’d push.” Wild applause. Yet the next day, CNN’s Jake Tapper had this exchange on his show, The Lead: “If he wasn’t Ted Cruz, he probably would be reported and investigated by the Secret Service,” Karen Giorno, identified by CNN as Southeast regional director for the Trump campaign, told Tapper. “It should offend every American. This is a presidential race,” said the staffer of a GOP candidate who boasted at a rally two months ago, “I could stand in the middle of 5th Ave. and shoot somebody and I wouldn’t lose voters,” and who had just stood up for Lewandowski, when there’s also videotape of him grabbing a protester

SFGMC

From page 40

from all over the US,” Seelig added. “Yes, that was 1,000 singers.” The tragic horrors of the AIDS years are recalled in NakedMan. This was the first piece that was inspired by the lives of actual Chorus members, initially performed in 1996. “The tales of our lives could not be

by the collar at a rally. Irony klaxon. “This is not a time to be joking about the front-runner, essentially running him over and causing him harm or death,” Giorno continued. You can’t make anything up this season, it’s all “Whut?!” every day. “This is not the kind of humor we want. My candidate has Secret Service protection for a reason. There are people out there out to physically harm him, OK? So what we’re talking about, another presidential candidate talking about backing over him with a car, that’s not funny.” We thought it was funny. The Courtesy CNN audience thought it was funny. But Giorno’s response, cued by Trump, Donald Trump and Anderson Cooper had a little sit-down for television. should make everyone all the more terrorized by the idea of a Trump series follows a dysfunctional famscissors,” he said, “or rock or paper! presidency. If he gets this upset at a ily composed of high school guidOr worse, she could have used that joke, imagine what would happen if ance counselor Madison Clark, her pen to write down something he a world leader dissed him. English teacher boyfriend Travis said. There’s no telling how much Given that scariness, Manawa, her daughter Alicia, her damage that could do!” the best TV moment in drug-addicted son Nick, and Travis’ Then a cartoon image of Trump recent days was Anderson from a previous marriage Chris, appeared. The very orange Trump son Cooper challenging at the onset of the zombie apocabegan with, “He started it. Unless Trump at yet another lypse. They must either revamp it makes America great again, in Town Hall on March 30. themselves or cling to their deep which case I started it.” When asked Cooper: “After saying flaws as they come to terms with by Colbert about Cooper calling you were going to spill the impending collapse of civilizahim a five-year-old, cartoon Trump the beans about Heidi tion.” You know, like if people have said of Cooper, “He’s a dumbCruz, you retweeted an tantrums and sit out the election dumb. He’s a stupid-head, a total unflattering picture of in November and Trump becomes poopy-pants.” her next to a picture of your wife.” president. Yes, looking at you, Susan “That’s a little immature,” Colbert Donald Trump: “I thought it was Sarandon. said, to which cartoon Trump rea nice picture of Heidi. I thought it This season will be rife with scariplied, “I know you are, but what am was fine.” The photo was hideous. ness. The families will be leaving I? Stephen, I am rubber, you’re glue, “Come on.” LA and embarking for elsewhere on I have a lawyer, and I will sue.” If “I thought it was fine. She’s a Strand’s (Colman Domingo) yacht. only it weren’t hyperrealism posing pretty woman.” But water is so fluid. Travis (Cliff as satire. Who would have thought “You’re running for president of Curtis), Madison (Kim Dickens) Scandal would seem like reality TV the United States.” and the remaining survivors will instead of political melodrama, and “Excuse me, excuse me. I didn’t search for a way to keep their heads Game of Thrones and The Walking start it. I didn’t start it.” above water – literally. Dead would feel like primers? “But sir, with all due reFor sheer unadulterated sexispect: That’s the argument of a Throne room ness, Outlander is back for a second five-year-old.” April sees a ramping up of the exseason. Not only is it one of the “I didn’t start it – no, it’s not.” citement in the West Wing on Scanbest period pieces on the tube, but “The argument of a five-year-old dal, and Game of Thrones and The everyone is just, well, gorgeous. is, ‘He started it.’” Walking Dead are back in muchAnd the hint of gayness is just “Excuse me. You would say anticipated new seasons. HBO’s maddening. As was often true in that. That’s the problem with our hit series Game of Thrones’ season the 18th century. We have hopes, country.” 6 premieres Sun., April 24, so prep though, we have hopes. Based on “Every parent knows a five-yearthe party or set the DVR. Fans are the Outlander novels, the series stars old who says, ‘He started it.’” hoping that their most beloved of Caitriona Balfe as Claire Randall, a To say this exchange was made characters, Jon Snow (Kit Haringmarried WWII nurse in 1945 who better by Cooper being an out gay ton), presumed dead in the season gets transported back to Scotland man whose mother, Gloria Vander5 finale, is really alive. Because othin 1743. (Complicated non-Tardis bilt, is friends with Trump is just erwise, who will prepare the world time travel.) Once there, Claire icing. The riposte with Cooper led for the Great Battle when the White meets up with the ever-so-dashing to Stephen Colbert taking on carWalkers finally storm the wall? Yes, Highland warrior Jamie Fraser (hot toon Trump later that night on The this whole season is going to feel Sam Heughan) and becomes emLate Show. Colbert began a bit on very much like the general election, broiled in the Jacobite Uprising. The the March 30 show with, “Speaking we guarantee it. Memes are already second season is 13 episodes and of stupid and Mad Men: Donald out there with Hillary Clinton and based on Dragonfly in Amber. Set Trump.” Colbert said Trump’s staff the caption, “Winter is coming.” the DVR for the premiere on April could always tell his mood based Other unresolved issues on GOT 9. Season 2 takes us to Paris, which on what color hat he’s wearing. “It’s include how Arya (Maisie Williams) is lovely in the springtime, as Ella like the old saying: Cap of white, will deal with being blind: massive. Fitzgerald once sang. friend in sight. Cap of red, we’re all Will Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia One of our quirky faves, the dead. Yeah, Trump does act like a Clarke) find herself back with the original Netflix series Unbreakable five-year-old, but that’s why people Dothraki, or what? If you missed Kimmy Schmidt, which also stars like him,” Colbert explained. “He’s GOT star Peter Dinklage as host one of our fave gay male characters, uncomplicated. If he’s angry, he of SNL on April 2, you can see the returns with a new season on April shouts. If he’s happy, he wears ‘Hapepisode on demand at Hulu or 15. In addition to that premiere, py Hat.’ He loves building towers, NBC.com, worth the look because Netflix announced other series and and he thinks girls are kinda yucky.” Dinklage is fantastic, the first time movies set to debut throughout Colbert noted how Trump had a little person has hosted the show April. The queer highlights include said Lewandowski had protected in its history. Dinklage telling cast season 2 of How to Get Away With him from Fields, because “she could member Cecily Strong “Summer is Murder, season 1 of the CW series have had a little bomb,” and “her coming” was a priceless throwaway. The Messengers, and many food pen could have been a knife.” Fear the Walking Dead, the preshows, because really, can you get “Yes! Her pen,” Colbert said, quel to The Walking Dead, is back enough of those? Even though they picking up his pen. “Her pen could for season 2 on AMC. If you missed make us feel the equivalent of illiterhave been a little bomb. And her the first season, go binge before ate in the kitchen, we love them. fingers could have been a gun. Pew! season 2 starts on April 10. AMC We also love Unbreakable Kimmy Pew! Pew!” Colbert pretended to describes the series: “Set in LA, the Not just for the fabulous Schmidt. shoot with his finger guns. “Or even

writing, but for the two leads (the whole cast, really). Tina Fey created this show, and her deft dramedy hand has made this odd idea, which should have been incredibly dark like ABC’s The Family, work well. The characters, the acting: all superb. Ellie Kemper plays Kimberly “Kimmy” Schmidt, a naive but resilient young woman who escapes from a doomsday cult and starts life over in New York as a nanny and born-again human being. Her bestie is Titus Andromedon (Tituss Burgess), a flamboyantly gay, aspiring Broadway performer. Oh-so-flaming. We love it, even if he’s playing that two-forone role of the person of color and the queer. Carol Kane, whose character was recently killed off on Gotham, is Lily, their landlady, and Jane Krakowski is Kimmy’s boss (Kimmy works for her as a nanny). Fey’s use of the cult and former cult members opens this show up, making it more than just a one-liner joke. It’s got depth and poignancy as well as laughs. If you missed the first season, get ready to binge for both seasons. You will not regret it. The new TBS comedy The Detour debuts April 11. This ostensible road-trip tale is the creation of the oh-so-funny and talented Samantha Bee. Need we say more? On April 12, The Mindy Project returns with all new gay stuff, because that’s how they roll. Since Fox cut the comedy inexplicably, it’s moved to Hulu. On April 14, BBC America’s stellar Orphan Black returns for season 4 and more lesbian teasing from Tatiana Maslany. We’re also looking forward to Game of Silence, a new thriller based on a Turkish series that debuts on what’s become the thriller network, NBC, on April 7 after The Voice. The bad news is the show moves to Thursdays, which will mean it conflicts with the TGIT schedule, but that’s why we have DVRs. This looks edgy and compelling. It will run counter to ABC’s new TGIT hit The Catch, which has everything: great plot, fabulous style, interracial cast that isn’t just dropped in for show. The best return for the spring season is Empire, which revved back up on March 30 for the second half of season 2. And omg, if you thought the mid-season finale was crazy, the follow-up is even more so. Cookie could take on every Real Housewife from Hotlanta to LA and then some. Lucious and Hakeem are still dueling. Rhonda is alive, but in mourning. The whole Lyon family is in flux, yet they cannot let go of each other. We thought we were over this show because of the long hiatus. Oh did we think wrong. For Cookie alone, not to mention her gay and not-gay sons, we couldn’t stay away. Finally, the epitome of camp was on display March 30 when James Corden (how is he not gay?) debuted his prime time special Carpool Karaoke, which we felt was made just for us. Jennifer Lopez was the star, but clips of all the fabulous previous stars were there, plus a wonderful intro and outro. Go watch at CBS. com. Oh, and all those rumors that Jenny from the Block can’t sing outside the studio? Yes. She. Can. So for ever more Trump because we’ll never be free of him, gay sitcoms, thrilling dramas and hot men in cool tights, you really must stay tuned.t

Though the concert’s underlying themes are quite serious, Seelig promises that the evening will include humor, and even a little choreography. The concert will serve as a reminder of how much San Francisco means to LGBT people. “I was raised as a conservative and a segregationist,” recalls Maupin. “This is about climbing out of that pit and into the light. I did it with

the help of San Francisco.” Maupin also shared part of a letter that he wrote to his parents many years ago: “If you, Papa, are responsible for the way I am, then I thank you with all my heart.”t

represented better than with the 20th Anniversary of NakedMan,” Seelig said. “It was literally our lives, our stories set to music. The music is just glorious and covers the wide array of emotions and experiences still poignant and relevant today.” The concert will open with a new piece from Dr. James Eakin, Composer-in-Residence for SFGMC. “Dr. Eakin and I have collaborated

for over 15 years,” Seelig said. “This new piece, ‘Open the Gate,’ is at first glance a reference to our city and the Golden Gate. But it is so much more. It is a reminder to live our lives with open hearts, and a reminder that, regardless of how tempting it might be to close those gates and/or borders, it is only in remaining open as a society that we will ultimately fulfill our destiny.”

Tales of Our City: Our Lives, Our Heroes, Thurs. & Fri., April 14 & 15, 8 p.m., Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., SF. Tickets ($25$75): sfgmc.org.

t <<

Fine Art>>

April 7-13, 2016 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 55

Home Improvements

From page 33

The works “reveal unexpected aesthetic pleasure in overlooked fixtures of the home, such as a light switch, a floor mat, stereo equipment, a breaker box, toilet paper, and kitchen sponge,” according to the gallery. The exhibit includes a sculpture by Waters, a bondage-themed baby stroller decorated with raunchy logos of defunct and existing sex clubs, which is equipped with a leather harness, entitled “Bill’s Stroller.” In an interview with the B.A.R., gallery co-owner Jeffrey Fraenkel said he met Waters many years ago at the Fraenkel Gallery, his worldrenowned photography gallery at 49 Geary. Both passionate art collectors, the two became friends, Fraenkel said. As Frankel developed the concept for a new gallery, “a place we could show adventurous artwork in any medium,” he thought Waters would be the perfect person to curate the opening show. Shortly after the space at 1632 Market Street in San Francisco was leased, Fraenkel and Waters were having dinner across the street at Zuni Café. After dinner, Fraenkel showed the space to Waters, following up with an email asking Waters if he’d consider the job. “He said yes pretty quickly,” said Fraenkel. Waters’ inspiration for creating

Courtesy FraenkelLAB Courtesy Doug Padgett

“Untitled (double light switch I)” (2013) by Doug Padgett. Oil paint on gator board. Part of Home Improvements at FraenkelLAB.

“Bill’s Stroller” came from Provincetown’s Gay Family Week, he said in an interview in Artforum (Dec. 29, 2014). “Bill is my fake son,” explained Waters. “I had him made. He is an angry baby with bad hair. He was also my Christmas card one year, and people believed my fatherhood was true,” he said. In creating the gay-themed carriage, “I’m trying to pay tribute to the passing of time for an outlaw minority that is now eager to be middle-class,” he explained. The Home Improvements show,

said Waters in a press release, features “humble but surprisingly imperious paintings, sculptures, photographs, and drawings.” Describing the exhibit as “a celebration of the low-tech concept of ‘remodeling,’” Waters said the show “will hopefully make any serious property owner want to throw caution to the wind, pack up their living space, and start over.” In explaining the opening of a new gallery, Jeffrey Fraenkel said in a press release that FraenkelLAB “will be a versatile space that allows us to expand the horizons of our

Architect’s rendering of FraenkelLAB, opening on Market Street.

programming, and work with an even broader community of artists and collectors.” Frish Brandt, the gallery’s coowner, said, “We often encounter artwork of immense interest that we are unable to incorporate” into their main gallery. “FraenkelLAB gives us an open-ended schedule and a flexible space for work in any medium. FraenkelLAB should also be an uncommonly welcoming venue for unpredictable events that involve our dynamic and ever-growing arts community.” The Home Improvements exhibit features 13 contemporary artists: Martin Creed, Moyra Davey, Vincent

Fecteau, Paul Gabrielli, Gelitin, Paul Lee, Tony Matelli, Doug Padgett, Karin Sander, Gedi Sibony, Lily van der Stokker, George Stoll, and John Waters. The opening reception will be held April 15, 5-9 p.m. During the remainder of the show, the gallery hours will be Wed.-Fri., 5-9 p.m., Sat, Noon-7 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and by appointment. The gallery’s next show, June 3-July 2, will feature the work of Richard T. Walker, currently based in San Francisco. Walker creates videos, photographic works, installations, and performances focusing on the experience of our surrounding environments.t

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Besties: Sounds & Scenes

On the Tab

Besties: Dining & Drink

Vol. 46 • No. 14 • April 7-13, 2016

www.ebar.com V www.bartabsf.com

Bestie Bars & Clubs by Michael Flanagan

eaders voted on their favorite bars and nightclubs, with consistent results, proving that venues that welcome their patrons keep them happy. See page 58 >>

Georg Lester

Gareth Gooch

Heklina opens another edition of Bestie-winning event Mother at the multiple Bestie-winning Oasis.

Some of our favorite Bestie-winning people, photographed at Oasis, include (left to right) Donna Sachet, Alex U. Inn, Jason Brock, Connie Champagne, Marga Gomez, and ‘Edina and Patsy’ of Absolutely Fabulous (Terry McLaughlin and Christian Heppinstall).

Bestie talents

Bartenders, performers and extra talented people

by Jim Provenzano

eyond the bars and the booze, it’s the people who make our nightlife scene vibrant, funny, sexy and sometimes, a little bit shocking. Here are our favorite folks who make things fun. See page 60 >>

{ THIRD OF THREE SECTIONS }

BEST BEER SELECTION

225 Church Street @ Market • www.pilsnerinn.com

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

58 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

Bars & Clubs

From page 57

Best Bar/Nightclub To Meet Transgender People, Best Cabaret Venue, Best Dance Floor, Best SoMa Bar/Nightclub

Oasis

In the second year of its reign of wonderment, Oasis continues to be the favorite bar of much of the community. Is it any wonder why? With a lovely renovated space and events blending from live cabaret shows to dance parties, they have captured the hearts and shaken the booties of our readers. Cabaret? Where to begin? In the last year Oasis has featured An Evening With Connie Champagne, Veronica Klaus’ A Peggy Lee Songbook (both Bestie winners this year), Maureen McVerry’s Love Will Kick Your Ass, D’Arcy Drollinger’s Champagne White and the Temple of Poon and Lady Bunny’s Pig In A Wig among many, many more shows. Heklina, Drollinger and crew can be rightfully proud as they have provided a venue for shows which might otherwise have no other place to go. Well done! Best place to meet transgender people? Well, yes, but don’t get in their way if they are a performer headed to the stage. Perhaps a casual drink after the show, however? In so many ways Oasis has shared joy and we are happy to announce they were voted Best SoMa Bar/Nightclub as well. Much like the beloved show housed there, this bar is a “Monster” which cannot be tamed!

Shot in the City

Women love Qbar.

Runners up: Best Bar/Nightclub to meet Transgender People: Diva’s and Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Best Cabaret Venue: Martuni’s Best Dance Floor: Beatbox Best SoMa Bar/Nightclub: SF Eagle

Best Bar/Nightclub to Meet Men

SF Eagle

The SF Eagle bills itself as San Francisco’s gay heart, and that is no lie. For men in town, that heart may lie beneath a furry bear’s chest or perhaps a cub. All varieties will be found here, whether it’s on Sunday at a beer bust or at one of the many performances there on Thursday Night Live, the grub-filled Vittles, the ultra-sexy Pound Puppy, or with DJs like Bus Station John and Rotten Robbie turning the leather bar into a dance club. The sheer variety of events including comedy nights and gaymer events present a veritable pornucopia of delight.

Bars & clubs

Oasis, 298 11th St. at Folsom. 7953180. www.sfoasis.com

SF Eagle, 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com Runner up: 440 Castro

Best Bar/Nightclub to Meet Women

Qbar

Qbar has a long history of women’s nights, including 13 Licks and Switch. Clearly the women readers like what they have found there, including the central location in the heart of the Castro, a mixed women-friendly environment and amazing drinks. With one of the liveliest crowds, drink specials and best DJs in town, who could possibly disagree? Qbar, 456 Castro St. 864-2877. www.qbarsf.com Runner up: Wild Side West

Best Beer Selection

Pilsner Inn

If you should die and go to beer heaven, it will probably look a lot like The Pilsner. With thirty drafts on tap, including eight IPAs, if you don’t find something you like, you’re not trying very hard. All of your favorites are there: Chimay, Newcastle, Moose Drool

and a Young’s Double Chocolate Stout. I asked Bryan, one of the owners, if he had any particular noteworthy brews. He mentioned the Duchesse De Bourgogne, a sour Belgian beer that’s rarely found on tap. Other patron favorites include Magic Hat #9, Ballast Point Grapefruit Sculpin and beers from Escondido’s Stone brewing. While you’re enjoying your brew, notice the 30-year-old bowling alley lanes (numbers 21 and 22) that make up the bar’s surface. And you’ll probably meet members of the six softball teams (The Hawks, Phyre, Penguins, Sweet Spot, The Phoenix and The Knockouts) and pool league players that the bar sponsors. The Pilsner remains a wonderful neighborhood bar with an expansive, flower and plant-filled patio. The beer collection, which has only grown over the years, is the delicious icing on the cake.

and events like the Easter Bonnet Sale keep the crowds there. And who doesn’t love the Daddytenders and Beartenders? If you want a fun, friendly crowd in the Castro (and really, who doesn’t) this is the place for you. Our readers have exquisite taste. 440 Castro St., San Francisco. 621-8732. Runner Up: The Edge

Best East Bay Bar

White Horse Bar The bar in the East Bay that’s been packing them in since the 1950s definitely knows how to keep people happy and create a community. Even though it is a historic site as the oldest gay bar in America, it knows how to keep things fresh and draw in crowds. See page 59 >>

Pilsner Inn, 225 Church St. 621-7058. www.pilsnerinn.com

Best Castro Bar/ Nightclub

440 Castro

440 Castro brings the happy to the Castro. With its happy hour two for one (or two fur one as they are fond of saying) cocktails, and $2 beer days, it’s no wonder it’s so popular, sometimes so crowded that frequent gogo guy Eric Osborn dubbed its packed nights as “Bear Tetris.” The good drinks, good music and good company draw in the crowds. Gogo boys at the Popular Slut Club

Rick Gerharter

440 Castro.

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 59

Steven Underhill

Hunks at Hi Tops.

Bars & Clubs

From page 58

Sundays are amazing here with their $5 Mimosas, a Bloody Mary Bar and a Sunday Beer Bust. If you’re still in the mood to party early on in the week, you have two nights of Karaoke and performances like Rebel Kings drag king shows and DJs on Thursdays and Friday nights. Pool tables and the fireplace give the bar the feeling of a home away from home. This bar has been building community for decades, and it’s clearly doing it right. If you live in Berkeley or Oakland, you obviously know this treasure. If you’re in San Francisco or another city, it’s always worth a trip. The White Horse, 6551 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com Runner Up: Club Bnb

Best Mixed Drink

Martuni’s

Best mixed drink or most lethal – you decide! Oh my god, if those Raspberry Lemon Drops could talk, what stories they would tell on me. It’s so nice to see the good taste and bad livers of the B.A.R. readers on display here at the Besties. If you want a classic martini you can get it here, but why stop there? With combinations that come in all of the colors of the gay rainbow – cosmopolitan martini, pineapple and chocolate martinis and stingers, that’s just for starters. With reviewers online saying things like “I’ve never left here not hammered,” you know this is the place for something that goes down smooth and stays around to party afterward. And since you’re in the mood, why not slip through the curtain in the back and see if anyone is playing piano or singing? Martuni’s knows how to do drinks right.

Strong Island (a bourbon and rye drink), The Shining (Fords Gin and Aylesbury Duck Vodka) and The Big Picture (Fig-infused calvados, Barolo chinato, lemon and toasted pumpkinseed). As an investigative journalist, I tried the Big Picture. I’m happy to report it was delicious. Part of the charm of Blackbird is the friendly bartenders who will be happy to explain the drinks. They fit right in to the ambience of the bar, with its pool table and rotating art display (Andria Lo currently has a photography exhibit up through the end of April). The bar can get progressively louder and more crowded as the

evening goes on, so earlier in the night is better if you want to have an in-depth conversation about cocktails. Blackbird has never disappointed me, and obviously our readers are of the same mind. Blackbird, 2124 Market St. www.blackbirdbar.com Runner Up: The EndUp

Best Wine Bar

Blush

For the times when you want to have a relaxing casual conversation and unwind without a loud bar atmosphere there is nothing better than a wine bar. Whether you

want bubbly, whites, reds or dessert wines, our readers say Blush is the place to go. And if you want more than a drink, it’s a wonderful place for a salad and a sandwich as well. There are a variety of seating options, so if you just feel like stopping by for a glass of white while reading a book, or want to bring a group to share a bottle, you’ll feel right at home. And if you’re looking for entertainment, there is live music three nights a week and theater once a month. Blush! Wine Bar, 476 Castro St. 558-0893. www.blushwinebar.com Runner Up: Swirlt

Martuni’s, 4 Valencia St. at Market. 241-0205. www.martunis.ypguides.net Runner Up: Blackbird

Best Neighborhood Bar

El Rio

It got the name “Your Dive” for a reason. El Rio is one of those places I keep rediscovering – my most recent discovery/lovefest being the free Friday afternoon oysters. Close enough to 24th Street BART station to draw in people from all around the bay, and far enough away from the trendy spots on Valencia to keep it real, El Rio is the place on Mission for salsa, hip-hop, disco and dub, plus the frequent Bestie-winning events Mango and Hard French. Check out the DJs on the patio and keep an eye on their calendar for bands and comedy night. This place is a true treasure, and it’s great that that’s the B.A.R. readers recognize that. El Rio, 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com Runner Up: Twin Peaks

Best Sports Bar

Hi Tops

Tank tops and gym shoes and running shorts, oh my! For the third year running, our readers have chosen Hi Tops as the best place to sit down, watch a game, have some drinks and maybe something to eat, while musing about how long it has been since you’ve been to the gym. With fun events like Thursday night’s gym class and Tuesday’s trivia night, Hi Tops packs in all of the guys you wish had been in your high school gym class for nights of fun. Women enjoy it as well, with a straight-gay mix, too. And what to eat to pack on those calories before your next run? You have your choice: buffalo wings, pulled pork sandwiches and a pork chop on a stick (and really, don’t you want meat on a stick when you go to a gay sports bar?). Wildly popular since it opened in 2012, Hi Tops is an example of how to run a gay bar in a changing San Francisco and still draw a crowd. Our readers are impressed and you will be too. Hi Tops, 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.hitopssf.com Runner Up: Lookout

Best Stray (Straight/Gay) Bar:

Blackbird

Dallis Willard

El Rio’s won Nest Neighborhood Bar, again

Who doesn’t like to pick up a stray now and then? For our readers, the perfect spot for a stray is BlackBird. Like flocking fowl, their drink menu changes with the seasons. The winter drinks, which are about to change shortly (so hurry in) include the

Gareth Gooch

D’Arcy Drollinger, Matthew Martin and Nancy French in Shit & Champagne at Oasis.

Oasis Sweeps Besties by Jim Provenzano

espite the loss of a few bars in recent years, more people are going out, and looking for a good time. Several (thankfully) long-running bars won Besties, and one nightclub in particular, not surprisingly, won eight awards (see “Bestie Bars & Clubs”). Since its New Year’s eve opening rang in 2015 with a splash, Oasis has led the pack in popularity, innovation and convenience. Located in the heart of South of Market’s most populous nightclub strip on 11th Street, the renovated former club –also popular in various incarnations in past decades– has seen a renaissance of live, lip-synched and DJed dance events. Oasis co-owner Heklina, who also MCs the weekly post-Trannyshack show Mother, said, “For once, I can’t think of anything flippant or humorous to say. I’m just really blown away by all for the support San Francisco has shown for Oasis. It was an out-of-the-box hit, and wherever I go, people stop and thank me for being a part of opening Oasis. I didn’t realize quite how much it was needed in today’s San Francisco until we opened it. Now it seems like an indispensable part of SF nightlife. Thank you, everyone!” Co-owner D’Arcy Drollinger, whose original-scripted plays like Shit & Champagne and its sequel are among the club’s longest-running shows, said, “It’s been a ton of work, but so worth it. We did know that this type of venue was needed in the city, but it wasn’t until we opened that we realized how much.” Asked how to balance accolades and pressure to add new entertainment, Drollinger said, “It’s a great feeling. The response has been overwhelming. And yes, the pressure is on. Can we sustain our audiences when we are so brand new and shiny? And there is also the pressure of curating consistently good acts, while straddling the fine line of booking the guaranteed draws, as well as exposing people to less well-known performers.” Asked what the team learned in their first year, Drollinger, said, “Everything is more expensive than I thought. Ha!” The first year offered a few surprises as well. “Certain shows became overnight successes,” said Drollinger. “Star Trek Live, for example, just exploded and was much more successful than I could have hoped. It also brought a very different demographic to the club. And Mark O’Brien’s Polyglamorous was a big hit right out of the gates, which was a very happy surprise.” Asked about any change the team has made to the venue or scheduling, Drollinger said, “We finally got air into the building. The first few months were way too hot! Aside from that, we’ve been making small changes and additions as we go. There are always new and different things about the space if you look for them. It’s going to continue to be the case; a constant work in progress, but in a good way – our very own Winchester Mystery House. In terms of scheduling, it took a little while, but I do feel like we’ve almost mastered going from a cabaret to a dance party in record time.” Upcoming events include the club’s first live rock musical, Above and Beyond the Valley of the Ultra Showgirls, “with most of the original band, who were also the musicians from Enrique, in which I was one of the singers back in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s,” said Drollinger, who joked, “I guess I just dated myself. Yes, I was in an ‘80s band! And the show is about an ‘80s girl rock band. The cast is amazing and these kids sing!” Fans can also look forward to the third edition of Drollinger’s ultra-camp Champagne White series. “Spoiler alert: Champagne goes to Vegas!”t

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

60 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

Christ spectacle, or in the popular Star Trek parody as Lt. Uhura, the skilled performer knows how to take –and share– the stage. Read our interview with Mahogany on page 65.

Best Comic (Male)

Nick Leonard

Runners up: Justin Lucas, Jesus U. Betta Work, Yuri Kagan

out audiences at Theater Rhinoceros and she has appeared in several independent films. Klaus’ 1997 debut CD was “mostly more R&B-modeled pop, which I wrote,” she said. The CD was nominated for a GLAMA Award for Best Female Artist. 2007’s Live at the Lodge was recorded at the Regency Center’s third floor lounge. Something Cool, recorded in 2012 over three days, also became the source material for Klaus’ fourth

CD, the latest devoted to the musical tribute to singer-composer Peggy Lee. Klaus’ classy jazz and cabaret act, often with the Tammy L. Hall trio, has been performed at a number of San Francisco’s nightspots, including Enrico’s, Café Du Nord and Club 181. Her recent album, the Peggy Lee songbook Lee á la V, was also performed live at Feinstein’s at the Nikko in 2014.

When he’s not making us laugh in his stand-up shows, Best Male Comic Nick Leonard doubles as drag persona Ginorma Desmond in numerous campy nightclub shows. Look for him on the line-up at several upcoming comedy shows.

See page 61 >>

Best Cabaret Performer (Female)

Connie Champagne Runners up: Paula West, Leanna Borghesi

Gareth Gooch

Best Bartender Erick Lopez (center) at The Edge.

Talents

From page 57

Best Bartender

Erick Lopez, The Edge Runners up: Steve Dalton, SF Eagle; Andy Anderson, 440 Castro

The adorable Erick Lopez wins Best Bartender for the second time. Lopez is also the creator and impetus behind the Bestie-nominated Code, the Castro’s most successful leather and kink event, a monthly party created with the intention of

bringing leather back to the Castro.

Best Cabaret Performer (Drag or Trans)

Honey Mahogany

Runners up: Katya SmirnoffSkyy, Veronica Klaus

It’s easy to spot Honey Mahogany in a bar or nightclub. The tall, beautiful event host, singer, actor and RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant was voted by our readers at the Bestiewinning Best Drag or Trans Nightlife Performer, for a lot of reasons. Whether performing solo and singing live, in TV shows (Looking), camping it up in the latest Peaches

Well-known for her roles portraying Judy Garland, Connie Champagne first appeared as the legendary star in the Off-Broadway production of Christmas With The Crawfords. New York Times critic Neil Genzlinger described her performance as “a subtle masterpiece of parody and homage.” Champagne has performed at the Empire Plush Room, at the New Conservatory Theatre Center in Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and many other venues. Her next project is Landmark Musicals’ upcoming West Coast debut of The Boy From Oz.

Best Band/Musician

Veronica Klaus

Runners up: Double Duchess, Pepperspray

A 2015 Bestie-winning singer, Veronica Klaus has been performing in San Francisco for more than two decades. Her 2014 one-woman show Family Jewels played to sold

Jose A. Guzman-Colon

Veronica Klaus with her adorable dog Charisse.

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 61

Gareth Gooch

The amazing Fauxnique performing at Oasis.

Talents

From page 60

Best Comic (Female or Trans)

Marga Gomez Runners up: Karen Ripley, Lisa Geduldig

With a twelfth solo show underway, and recent workshops shows selling out, the ever-popular Marga Gomez has been a local favorite since her early days performing at the Valencia Rose and Josie’s Juice Joint, among other venues nationwide. “Winning the Bestie this year was very cool because I didn’t campaign for it like I usually do,” said Gomez. “I just drew upon the old adage, ‘Let go and let Gay God.’ Gomez also remains gracious with her fellow nominees. “I hope the Besties process encourages your readers to check out all the nominated LGBT comics. They are excellent.” She thanked her fans as well. “I’ve engineered a 30-year career in comedy outside of the mainstream, and I’ve been really fortunate to have the support of the LGBT community here in the Bay Area.” Mainstream success is a tough nut to crack, but her appeal in stand-up and theatre continues to grow. “I stayed away from typical comedy clubs because I thought they wouldn’t get me,” said Gomez. “Then in March, I headlined a night at the San Francisco Punch Line and it really was a game changer for me. It was a mixed crowd, a full house and I had a blast. They asked me back and we are looking at something in the fall.” Gomez will perform her new solo show Latin Standards April 16 and 17 at the Douglas Morrison Theater in Hayward as part of the One For All Theater Festival. “It’s my twelfth solo show, and it’s about my father who was comedian and producer and the reason I am a comedian and dabble in producing.” Gomez has been workshopping the show this year at a few local venues. “I can’t wait to bring it to a fancy theater in Hayward,” she said. “The last time I was in Hayward, I played a gay bar.” Los Angeles fans can see her recent hit solo show, Pound, at the Celebration Theatre in Los Angeles for two nights. “I’ll probably continue pursuing stand-up and solo plays but making people laugh either way.”

Best Cabaret Performer (Male)

Jason Brock

Runners up: Joe Wicht, Brian Kent

From that first broadcast of the talent show X Factor, Jason Brock made his mark as a fun, openly gay singer and a powerhouse vocalist. After enduring the reality show exposure, he traveled, performed and then settled back in the Bay Area, where he’s costarred as Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch at the Boxcar Theatre, as a demented flower girl in Taylor Mac’s The Lily’s Revenge at the Magic Theatre, and “Peachy Gale” in Peaches Christ’s The Wizard of Odd at the Castro Theatre. Brock has also frequently performed solo and shared cabaret shows at Martuni’s. “I’m really blown away that the readers chose me this year,” said Brock. “This is really a huge honor and makes me love San Francisco even more. My thanks to everyone who voted, from the bottom of my heart.” Brock’s latest cabaret night at Martuni’s, The TV Theme Song show, presents jaunty new versions of the themes from Full House, The Nanny, Family Guy, Family Ties, The Brady Bunch, Cheers, The Jeffersons, and many more. “Nikki Arias is doing a couple solos and a few duets with me,” said Brock. “Both she and Dee Spencer (who has her weekly show at Beaux on Thursdays now) will be singing backup, too. Dee will be on piano, of course, and we’ll also be recording the show! I love these songs and can’t wait to share them.”

and this is a very sweet way to be recognized.” Jenkinson performed her recent show, The F Word, at Oasis and at venues in Europe and New York City. When asked about her local drag inspirations, Jenkinson gave shoutouts to “Glamamore! Juanita More! Jordan L’Moore! Miss Gina La Divina, Precious Moments, Putanesca, Ana Matronic,” to name a few.

Best Host/MC

Donna Sachet Runners up: Peaches Christ, Heklina

From Imperial Court ceremonies to countless fundraisers, Donna Sachet is true nightlife royalty. A stalwart supporter of LGBT and AIDS/ HIV fundraisers, Sachet is known for her dry wit and savvy when helming the microphone at everything from a star-studded VIP gala to a cruisy beer bust. “What an honor to receive this recognition along with some of my favorite performers, producers, and generally people who make San Francisco a better place to live,” said Sachet. “Isn’t it nice for a change to celebrate what’s great about the City, instead of regretting all that has been lost or is in jeopardy?” Known for her trademark red dresses, Sachet said “I am so grateful to be asked to participate in this way in a great variety of events. While there are probably 10 or 12 annual events I have done every year for quite a while, I continue to enjoy the challenge of new events. What can I bring to that party? Who is the group, what is the cause, and what is my unique contribution?” Among her contributions are as adept grasp of the notable attendees at events, documented every other week in this publication for more than a decade. “Each year, I look back on nearly 100 events I have hosted or emceed at least some part of, and it’s nice to be recognized for that work.” With her busy schedule, Sachet has had to send regrets for some events. “You wouldn’t believe some of the events I am asked to host/emcee, but I rarely say no right away, and sometimes that leads to some of the most interesting experiences. Years ago, I emceed the final night

talents

Best Faux Queen

Fauxnique

Runners up: Alotta Boutté, Ferosha Titties

Qualitative honors for artists are often subjective, but Monique Jenkinson’s unique style of performance and drag as Fauxnique in theatres, museums and nightclubs have made her our readers’ favorite faux, for real. “I don’t really think of these things so much as ‘winning’ or ‘losing’ or ‘best,’” said Jenkinson. “I certainly appreciate my wonderful audience and fan base who nominated me for this win. Recognition comes in so many shapes and sizes,

See page 64 >>

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

62 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

Besties: Sounds & Scenes DJs and gogos make nightlife extra fun by Jim Provenzano

hether spinning a CD or whirling on a pole, our DJs and dancers add a special element of fun to nightlife. And while a few events have become the stuff of legend, others continue to bring in new fans. Here are your winning events and nightlife people who make the scene thrive. We got quotes from a few winners. For Bestie-winning performers, see “Bestie People.”

Best DJ (Male)

MC2

Runner-up: Bus Station John Despite the loss of his partner Eddie Bell, aka Cookie Dough, DJ MC2, aka Michael Chu, has continued to bring uplifting grooves to patrons of several local popular bars and nightclubs. Asked about his DJing in the future, he said, “Hopefully I’ll still be at the locations and parties that I am currently spinning. I love the bosses I work for and the crowds and dance floors that I get to play to. It’s such a rush DJing for the enthusiastic large crowds on the dance floors at Oasis and DNA Lounge, and a lot of fun spinning for a cruisy, bar crowd and hot gogos over in the Castro at The Edge.” Chu said he gets inspiration from his work. “I’m on Cloud Nine whenever I come home to wind down from the energy the crowd feeds me.” And he has new plans. “I want to get into producing dance tracks. Eddie bought me a home studio to create my own tracks before he passed away. For 2016 and beyond, I plan on producing a lot of original tracks that I will start incorporating into my sets. I’ve already been playing a few of my creations during my sets; and, what a great pleasure it’s been to watch the crowd stay on the dance floor and dance to them.”

“We are very grateful to have had such a great response for the party. BAAAHS (Big-Ass Amazingly Awesome Homosexual Sheep) and the Burning Man community came out as early adopters, and our crowd has expanded from there over time. Oasis itself has a lot of fans who have been eager to support the club. Polyglamorous also casts a wide creative net. “In addition to hosting three or more diverse DJs at each party, we mix up our graphic design, installation artists, performers, and gogo dancers each month. In the end, though, it’s the people who show up with their fiercest looks, flirt and make out with old friends and new, and turn it out on the dance floor who make this party special.” Asked about upcoming events, O’Brien said, “We’re bringing back our Sneaks party on July 30 during Dore weekend, to a new venue this year. Also, we’ll be making our first out of town appearance, at Bear Week in Provincetown on July 11, and we’ve got some more surprises up our sleeves later this year.” www.facebook.com/BAAAHS.13/

Best Gogo Guy:

Andrew Slade Runner up: Michael Tempesta

Best Gogo Gal:

Jella Gogo

Polyglamorous at Oasis Runners-up: Go Bang! at The Stud, Beatpig at The Powerhouse Since its first night, Polyglamorous, the monthly dance night, has been a hit. Co-creator Mark O’Brien discussed his recipe for success.

Georg Lester

Runner up: Chloe Rainwater Andrew Slade, the affable hunk and former Iowa cheerleader, has won our hearts yet again, perhaps because he, like all gogo dancers, is more than meets the eye. Asked about his best recent night, Slade said, “I danced for My So Called Night at Beaux recently, where they play nothing but music videos from the ‘90s, so it was like reliving my childhood on the gogo box. That was such a fun night. Getting paid to do what I did in front of my bathroom mirror for ten years is not a bad gig.” Asked if he’s had nay notably bad nights, he said, “I was rushing from my day job to the gym and then to dance, and I didn’t get a chance to eat dinner in between, so I spent the first 45 minutes of the night doing dance moves that involved clutching my stomach and silently hoping someone would tip me with some pieces of Orange Chicken instead of dollars. I think if someone ever actually did that, I would just marry them

Sounds & scenes

Best Monthly Nightlife Event:

Bestie winners (left to right) Mark O’Brien (Polyglamorous), Andrew Slade (Best Male Gogo Guy), Michael Chu/MC2 (Best Male DJ), Benjamin Bellayuto (Polyglamorous), Dylan Strokes (Best Male Porn Actor) and Andy Cross (Daddy: Best Leather Event).

right then and there.” Along with dancing in underpants, Slade is also an accomplished animated graphics designer who also makes videos for several popular drag performances, from Mother to Peaches Christ extravaganzas, including the upcoming Spice World show at the Castro Theatre April 16. His own drag alter ego Chaka Corn won the 2014 Trannyshack Miss Star Search competition. Asked about his favorite number in drag, Slade said, “The Harry Potter number I did for Trannyshack, and it’s one hundred percent due to the people that were in it. I did that number with not only the Rice Rockettes and my entire drag family, but my real-life mom and dad as well. They played the voices of Professor McGonagall and the Sorting Hat. Hearing the voices of your parents coming through the club speakers as you perform in drag is a pretty incredible and amazing feeling, to say the least. I never, ever forget how fortunate I am to have them.”

Best DJ Duo/Group:

Hard French

Runner-up: Honey Soundsystem

Best Nightlife Event (non-weekly/monthly):

Hard French at El Rio

Runner-up: Bearracuda (various venues) Soul deliciousness continues at the always popular Hard French, the outdoor daytime soul music dance parties at El Rio. The group is known as well for its sold-out Winter Balls. Devon Devine of the collective offered us a few hints about the gorup’s next events. “We have a really cute season in store for San Francisco this year. We’re hosting a one-night-only after-hours fundraiser called Club Soda for SOMArts (934 Brannan Street) on April 23, and then Hard Frenching Glamamore on May 7th at El Rio, in celebration of SF’s favorite drag grandmother. Psychic TV will be headlining Pride at Mezzanine. We also have a few surprises in store we’ll be announcing in the next few weeks!” www.hardfrench.com

Best DJ (Female or Trans):

Page Hodel

Runner-up: Lady Ryan Her legacy of DJing events goes back decades, but repeat Bestie winner Page Hodel continues to push music to its limits at events ranging from women’s circuit parties to Outside Lands, and fundraisers galore. When not inspiring us into a dancing whirl, Hodel creates art in her ongoing Monday Hearts for Madalene project: www.mondayheartsformadalene.com

Best (non-contest) Leather Event at a Bar: Shot in the City

The Hard French crew (L to R) Devon Devine, Jorge Portillo, Tim Strong, Amy Martinez, and Tom Temprano

Daddy at The Powerhouse

We’re not shy about our perpetual man crush on International Mr. Leather 2013 Andy Cross, whose really sexy Powerhouse event Daddy ended its three-year run earlier this year (sad emoji). If you don’t see him working at The SF Eagle, you can find him at many a kinkthemed night at the Powerhouse. www.powerhousebar.com

Best Drag Show:

Mother at Oasis Runners-up: Sunday’s a Drag at The Starlight Room Some Thing at The Stud Not just a replacement for Trannyshack, the new deliciously campay drag show pays tribute to music icons, holidays and movie genres like no other. (For quotes from Oasis co-owners, Heklina and D’Arcy Drollinger, see “Oasis sweeps Besties” on Page 59.) www.sfoasis.com

Best Comedy Night:

Funny Tuesdays at Harvey’s Runners-up: Comedy Returns at El Rio Sadly, the favorite comedy night is no longer, but former host Ronn Vigh has started a new monthly event, “Gay Bash” at the downtown Punch Line. And Runner Up Comedy Returns continues at El Rio, hosted monthly by the lovely Lisa Geduldig. www.harveyssf.com

Best Game Night:

Bottoms Up Bingo at Hi Tops Runners-up: Miss Kitty’s Trivia Night at Wild Side West Drinks and games, and jocks and queens; the wild mix at Hi Tops is a very popular night at the multiple Bestie-winning sports bar. www.hitopssf.com

Runner-up: Code at The Edge See page 63 >>

ilable @

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 63

the monthly Pound Puppy still retains a groovy edge and a cruisy atmosphere for creatures not only canine, but cubby, cuddly and carnal. www.sf-eagle.com

Best Unusual Nightlife event :

Nightlife at the California Academy of Sciences Runners-up: Kink.com parties Keeping it classy with educational nights at the fascinating science museum, fans of the early evening parties have enjoyed performances by the likes of Bestie-winning drag queen Peaches Christ and gogo hunk Andrew Slade. Cocktails under the necks of stuffed giraffes or near an albino alligator certainly stir up different party conversations. www.calacademy.org

Best Women’s Event:

DJ Page Hodel

Mango at El Rio

Sounds & Scenes

From page 62

Best Stage Show in a Bar/Nightclub:

Absolutely Fabulous at Oasis Runners-up: Star Trek Live at Oasis Sweetie, dahling! Live versions of sitcoms are trending more than Pop-Specs, and our lovely readers chose the Edina and Patsy trib Terry McLaughlin as ‘Edina’ ute show as their favorite. And, sources more reliable than Bubble (actors Christian Heppinstal as ‘Patsy’ and Terry McLaughlin as ‘Edina’) inform us that a return of the show with new episodes may be on the horizon. Cheers, thanks a lot. www.sfoasis.com

Best Theme Night:

Pound Puppy at the SF Eagle Runners-up: Cubcake at The Lone Star Saloon While not quite as kinky as they were in their early editions,

Runners-up: Pussy Party at Beaux The Bestie-winning El Rio packs in the women folk for the patio party that’s been going strong for years. Usually held monthly during the warmer months, check the El Rio schedule for the next gathering. www.elriosf.comt

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64 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

Talents

livers the vocals of an angel, and the duo have been instrumental in ensuring music survives in the school districts. The only drag king house in San Francisco, Kingdom! has been together for 12 years. These hot studs always deliver an amazing show, with high energy live vocals and mashups of old skool hip hop and R&B classics. Their Drag King House has quickly become a popular ensemble who have performed at successful fundraisers for several community services, raising $8,000 in the past few months. Kingdom! Also creates a safe space for new kings and other performers to hone the art of kinging. “I’d like to thank our community for voting for me and to give mad respect to the other Kings in this category. I feel blessed and extremely honored. Winning a Bestie will heighten the awareness of Drag Kings.” Inn mentioned how further outreach will be a plus, postBesties. “The award will also help boost the ability to give more funding to our community services and encourage new kings to perform, particularly, Kings of Color. In return, other drag king shows in the Bay Area will benefit from Kingdom!’s success. For instance, the annual SF Drag King Contest may go from four contestants to many. I’m very grateful to be part of the art of kinging living on!” Upcoming performances include a full drag king concert with student performers April 28 at Saint Mary’s

From page 63

and awards dinner of the International Convention of Forensic Pathologists and I was warmly received, adding some much needed humor and whimsy to an otherwise overly serious event.” Asked how we can be as fabulous as the noted Ms. Sachet, said replied, “My advice; try new things and expand your talents, exposure, and experience.”

Best Drag King Alex U. Inn

Best Drag King

Alex U. Inn

Runners up: Leigh Crow, Kit Tapata Alex U. Inn, Founder of Momma’s Boyz and Kingdom!, is a rapping/beat-boxing artivist fighting hard for Black Name Rights on Facebook. His costar Mailman de-

I’d jump from gritty, sticky-floored nightclubs to performing in museums and at the San Francisco Symphony, or find a new home at the Castro Theatre for our movie events,” he said. “It feels very proper and fancy sometimes, which is why I’ll always still appreciate a stickyfloored bar with a nasty backroom as a place to workshop a new comedy bit or song.”

Special Bestie: Best Fan

Linda Lee

We didn’t have this on the ballots, but our favorite fan is Linda Lee, the retired postal worker who attends more nightlife and cultural events than anyone we know. Despite dealing with arthritis, and living in Hayward, she gets out and about in San Francisco with an infectious enthusiasm. Always cheerful and supportive, she’s also quite the prolific photographer of local personalities. Thanks for being a super fan, Linda!t

Best Drag Queen Peaches Christ

College, and in May at the Austin International Drag Festival, Brick & Mortar Music Hall (May 12), Kings in Shorts at the Roxie Theatre, a Pride party June 16, and in July, new shows at SoMa’s Beatbox.

Best Drag Queen

Peaches Christ

the California Academy of Sciences, where I co-produce Halloween Nightlife every year.” Dozens of yards-high wigs later, Grannell reflected on his growth as a drag artist and producer. “I never imagined when I started doing drag in San Francisco that

Runners up: Donna Sachet, D’Arcy Drollinger, Sister Roma

She’s not just a drag queen. She’s a multimedia empire. As Peaches Christ, the surpringly reserved Joshua Grannell has created campy film tributes to sold-out audiences at the Castro Theatre, the most infamous being the hilarious annual Showgirls tribute. His 2010 film directorial debut All About Evil remains a new camp classic. “I’m thrilled to have won a Bestie award for Best Drag Queen,” said Grannell. “I know that our city is chockfull of incredible queens, and I’m one of many who could have easily won this award. I’m really flattered.” Variety is a spice of Grannell/ Christ’s numerous shows, which are far from limited to nightclub gigs. “I’m glad to see so many collaborators are also fellow winners like

Linda Lee (center) our choice for Best Fan, at the recent Vaudevillians show at Oasis.

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April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 65

Honey Mahogany

The unique performer is more than a drag star what they love. It is a smaller show, and I want people to be entertained on a Monday night, and for the performers to do what they’re happy doing.” Honey Mahogany has recorded an EP, Honey Love, in 2014, along with singles and music videos. Fans can also enjoy a Nina Simone tribute night with The Erik Walker Band at the Bernal Heights club Lucky Horseshoe on April 9 (453 Cortland Ave). “I used to do live shows about twice a year,” said Mulugeta. “But I’ve sort of neglected that side of myself, so working with a band again has been really fun.”

Drag Roots

Jose A. Guzman-Colon

Honey Mahogany

by Jim Provenzano It’s easy to spot Honey Mahogany in a bar or nightclub. The tall, beautiful event host, singer, actor and RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant was voted by our readers at the Bestiewinning Best Drag or Trans Nightlife Performer, for a lot of reasons. Whether performing solo and singing live, in TV shows (Looking), camping it up in the latest Peaches Christ spectacle, or in the popular Star Trek parody as Lt. Uhura, the skilled performer knows how to take –and share– the stage. Born Alpha Mulugeta, the San Francisco native can be seen weekly in the Castro, where Mahogany Mondays has been running at The Midnight Sun for about three years. The variety show includes viewings of RuPaul’s Drag Race, when the show airs. The event has been ongoing with few nights off. “I don’t take holidays off, said Mulugeta. “And I can count on one hand how few Mondays I’ve missed for being out of town for a gig.”

Everyone was easy-going and ready to have a good time, but also very professional. We all knew how to do our jobs. It was definitely one of the most positive theatrical experiences I’ve ever had.” Among the highlights of the show were the subtle asides and gestures that sent the audience into fits of laughter. Asked if trying to keep a straight face, so to speak, was difficult, Mulugeta said, “For the most part, we all did pretty well at maintaining our composure, but every once in a while we’d throw something new in there to keep things interesting, and it was always fun to see how your co-stars would react. There was one time that I didn’t tell Leigh Crow [the veteran drag king, who played Captain Kirk] that I was going to do something a little differently, and I bent over in front of him, giving him quite the view. The first time I did that, he kind of lost his composure for a bit. Of course, the audience loved this, as it was a campy show. I have to say, though, for the most part, everyone was really good about keeping a straight face.”

Talents

Trekkie Talents

Performing in the recent Star Trek Live show at Oasis was “super fun,” said Mulugeta. “I was so glad I was asked to play Lieutenant Uhura. She is a legendary character in African American history, and it was really an honor to be able to play her, and a lot of fun.” Originally played by Nichelle Nichols, the popular TV 1960s science fiction show, developed by Gene Roddenberry, broke new ground with Nichols’ character, including the first broadcast television interracial kiss between actors. The recent drag production was played more for laughs, and Mulugeta recounted that experience. “We all got along very well in this cast,” he said. “All the drama was onstage, which was really refreshing. We had a lot of fun with each other.

Drag Racing

The experience of being a contestant on the fifth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race was quite a bit different, what with the pressure to make gowns, enduring the catty reality show atmosphere, and performing. That season, Mahogany, the first San Francisco drag performer on the show, lost to eventual winner Jinkx Monsoon. But Honey made her mark, performing live and lipsyching. “I don’t keep track,” said Mulugeta of how often live or recorded vocals are used in performances as Honey. “It’s whatever I feel like doing that night.” For Mahogany Mondays, a general theme is shared with other performers, “I just tell people to do

The 32-year-old Mulugeta didn’t start doing drag until college. Born in San Francisco, and raised Roman Catholic, Mulugeta attended St. Ignatius College Prepatory, where among his older fellow alumni are drag performer Matthew Martin (“He was there when it was all boys”). Among his younger classmates was a mop-headed Darren Criss. “He was two years younger than I was, but I was in musical theatre with him, and he was always running around with a guitar.” College brought opportunities for Mulugeta’s initial drag performances when he was involved in theatre at University of Southern California (where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Musical Theater). “I had a friend in the film program who asked me to play a role dressed as a woman,” he said. “I feel like I’ve built on that one influential moment. It definitely came from a place of wanting to perform, but also wanting to feel free to express and celebrate my femininity.” But the drag aspect of his performing had yet to stick. “I had done a few parties, but it wasn’t super interesting to me,” he said. “I didn’t really understand the attraction of lip-synching. I certainly never thought that I would make it a career!” While earning a Masters in Social Work at UC Berkeley, Mulugeta found more opportunities for nightlife performances, and an appreciation of the local scene. He cited an influential night, “ironically after the end of Trannyshack” at The Stud, where the short-lived replacement Tuesday drag night, Pink Slip, gave him inspiration, specifically with the torch songs performed by Virginia Suicide and others. “I thought, ‘I can do that. I want to do that!’” Shortly afterward, the name Honey Mahogany was born, not derived from any Diana Ross or Pam Grier homage, but based on two shades of make-up from Mulugeta’s high school theatre kit. In just a few short years, this tall talent has been in dozens of shows. Along with the upcoming Nina Simone concert, Honey will be part of Peaches Christ’s next extravaganza, Spice Rack at the Castro Theatre on April 16. With so many shows, how does Mulugeta continue to find new inspiration? “I don’t think I’ve ever settled for who I am or what I’m doing,” he said. “Hosting a weekly show has built up my MC skills. Learning new material is really great, and fun. I’ve been doing more live theatre like Star Trek, and another project with D’Arcy Drollinger. Working with the band again has been great. I’m exploring new avenues of performance. I feel like I’m always overwhelmed, but also that I’m never doing enough.”t

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66 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

On the Tab April 7-14

Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun

Club Rimshot @ Club BNB, Oakland

The popular video bar ends each work week with gogo guys (starting at 9pm) and drink specials. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

The weekly hip hop and R&B night. 8-$15. 9pm to 4am. 2120 Broadway. (510) 759-7340. www.club-bnb.com

Hard Fridays @ Qbar

Heklina’s weekly drag show night with different themes, always outrageously hilarious. $15. 10pm-2am. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com

DH Haute Toddy’s weekly electro-pop night with hotty gogos. $3. 9pm-2am (happy hour 4pm-9pm). 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

John Lloyd Young @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko The Jersey Boys star returns with songs from the show, and from his 2014 CD My Turn. $45-$65. 7pm. Also April 9, 7pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. www.ticketweb.com

Mother @ Oasis

Nitty Gritty @ Beaux Weekly dance night with nearly naked gogo guys & gals; DJs Chad Bays, Ms. Jackson, Becky Know and Jorge T. $4. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Ladies of San Francisco @ Club OMG our tie winners being profiled, long with all this week’s Bes do t Bu . use am uld events sho regular array of equally fun ain ert ent e som nk, dri a April 7 for e. come by Oasis Thursday cak be l wil prizes. Oh, and, there ment, and a chance to win

Grace Towers at Touch

Thu 7

Besties Party @ Oasis The Bay Area Reporter celebrates its 45th anniversary, and the winners of the sixth annual Bestie Readers Choice Awards, with guest-host Shawn Ryan, Heklina, D’Arcy Drollinger, performances by Veronica Klaus, Connie Champange, Jason Brock and Kingdom. No cover; hosted bar and food 6pm-7pm, show 8pm. 298 11th St. at Folsom. www.ebar.com/besties2016

Bulge @ Powerhouse Grace Towers hosts the fun sexy night. $100 cash prize for best bulge. $5-$10 benefits Groundswell Institute, the queer retreat camp. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com

Kingdom of Sodom @ Nob Hill Theatre The highly interactive sexy stripper party returns for more debauchery. $20, with cash bar. 8pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Mary Go Round @ Lookout Mercedez Munro and Holotta Tymes’ weekly drag show. $5. 10:30pm show. DJ Philip Grasso. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com

Nightlife @ California Academy of Sciences Themed event nights at the fascinating nature museum, with DJed dancing, cocktails, fish, frogs, food and fun. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org

Rock Fag @ Hole in the Wall Enjoy hard rock and punk music from DJ Don Baird at the wonderfully divey SoMa bar. 7pm-2am. 1369 Folsom St. 4314695. www.hitws.com

Thursday Night Live @ SF Eagle Music night with local and touring bands. $8. 9:30pm. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www. sf-eagle.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Disco guru DJ Bus Station John spins grooves at the intimate retro music night. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

Sat 9

It! @ Club 6

Fri 8

Ain’t Mama’s Drag @ Balancoire Weekly drag queen and drag king show hosted by Cruzin d’Loo. Mar. 25 features Donna Personna and many other acts. 8pm-10pm. No cover. 2565 Mission St. www.balancoiresf.com

Boy Bar @ The Cafe Gus Presents’ weekly dance night, with DJ Kid Sysko, cute gogos and $2 beer (before 10pm). 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Comedy Noir @ Balancoire Valerie Branch’s weekly comedy night, where she embodies her faux queen character Pia Messing for some offbeat wit, along with guest performers. $5. 8pm-10pm. 2565 Mission St. www.balancoiresf.com

Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum The family-friendly night events returns, with exhibit tours, dancing, food, drinks, and live music. $7-$15. 5pm-9pm. 1000 Oak St. www.museumca.org

Gogo Fridays @ Toad Hall Hot dancers grind it on the bar at the Castro bar, with a dance floor and patio. 4146 18th St. www.toadhallbar.com

Galilea hosts the weekly “old school drag show” with guest performers and DJ Jack Rojo. $4. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. www.clubOMGsf.com

Fri 8 Kyle Kash @ Nob Hill Theatre

Rockstars Beer Bust @ The Edge The SF gay softball team’s fundraiser includes $10 all you can drink beer, Jell-O shots and the entire team. 4pm7pm. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com

Saturgay @ Qbar

Some Thing @ The Stud

Soul Delicious @ Lookout

The Queens of Cabaret, a night of cabaret classics with the awardwinning actor-singers. $25-35. $49.95 includes dinner. 8pm. 859 O’Farrell Street. www.slimspresents.com www.marcovicci.com www.shawn-ryan.com

La Bota Loca @ Club 21, Oakland Latin, hip hop and Electro music night. $5-$25. 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St., Oakland. www.club21oakland.com

Fri 8 Baloney @ Oasis

Weekly live music shows with various acts, along with brunch, mimosas, champagne and more, at the stylish nightclub and restaurant; shows at 12:30pm, 1:30pm and 2:45pm. After that, T-Dance drag shows at 7pm, 10pm and 11pm. 2565 Mission St. at 21st. 920-0577. www.balancoiresf.com

Marriage Equality Anniversary Party @ Mission Cultural Center

The saucy women’s burlesque show hosted by Dottie Lux. $10. 7pm-10pm. 314 11th St. www.beatboxsf.com

Andrea Marcovicci, Shawn Ryan @ Great American Music Hall

Domingo De Escandal @ Club OMG

Enjoy the weekly jock-ular fun, with DJed dance music at sports team fundraisers. 12pm-1am. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com

Stanley Frank spins house dance remixes at the intimate Castro dance bar. $3. 9pm-2am (weekly beer bust 2pm-9pm). 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Sat 9

The fun Castro nightclub, with hot local DJs and sexy gogo guys and gals. $5. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.Beauxsf.com

Jock @ The Lookout

Gogo-tastic dance night starts off your weekend. $5. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Mica Sigourney and pals’ weekly offbeat drag performance night. $7. 10pm-3am. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com

Big Top @ Beaux

Pollo del Mar’s weekly drag show takes on different themes with a comic edge. 8:30-11:30pm. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Manimal @ Beaux

Red Hots Burlesque @ Beatbox

The classic leather bar’s most popular Sunday daytime event in town draws the menfolk. Beer bust donations benefit local nonprofits (Check the website for a list of recipients). 3pm6pm. Now also on Saturdays. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

GlamaZone @ The Cafe

Enjoy Latin, hip hop and electro, plus hot gogos galore, and a big dance floor. $10-$20. 9pm-3am. 2111 Franklin St., Oakland. www.club21oakland.com

Weekly drag shows at the last transgender-friendly bar in the Polk; with hosts Victoria Secret, Alexis Miranda and several performers. Also Saturdays. $10. 11pm. 1081 Polk St. www.divassf.com

Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

Femme, Xtravaganza @ Balancoire

Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland

Midnight Show @ Divas

Sun 10

Weekly Latin night with drag shows hosted by Vicky Jimenez & DJ Luis. 7pm2am. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com

Kyle Kash @ Nob Hill Theatre The handsome porn actor makes his debut at the famed strip club. Solos at 8pm, duo sex shows with Drew Sebastian at 10pm. $25. Also April 9. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis (early litigants in the marriage equality fight) host a 20th anniversary party for Marriage Equality USA, with light drinks, food, photo and video presentations. Free/register online. 5pm-8pm. 2868 Mission St. www.marriageequality.org

Brunch, booze, sass and grooves, with the Mom DJs, Motown sounds, and soul food. 11am-4pm. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com

Soiree 2016 @ Terra Gallery The SF LGBT Center’s annual festive fundraiser gala, hosted by Juanita More!, includes dinner and cocktails ($225 and up, VIP ticket, 5pm), drinks and dancing ($95, 8:30pm-12am, general ticket), silents auctions, music with DC Sergio Fedasz, and performances by Abominatrix, Honey Mahogany, Mutha Chucka, VivvyAnne ForeverMORE, Dulce de Leche, Glamamore, Mis Rahni Nothingmore, Voodonna Black, Jonny Rocket, Laundra Tyme, pianist Joe Wicht. 511 Harrison St. 896-1234. www.sfcenter.org/soiree2016

Soul Party @ Elbo Room DJs Lucky, Paul, and Phengren Osward spin 60s soul 45s. $5-$10 ($5 off in semi-formal attire). 10pm2am. 647 Valencia St. 5527788. www.elbo.com

Sugar @ The Cafe Dance, drink, cruise at the Castro club. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Touch It! @ Club Six Comfort & Joy, the groovy Burning Man collective, hosts a fundraiser dance and sexy fun party, with drag performances hosted by Grace Towers; Mainfloor DJs Adam Kraft, Jim Hopkins, and Robin Malone Simmons; DJs Allen Craig and Grisecon in the palatial playspace. $17$54. 10pm-5am. 60 6th St. touchit.eventbrite.com

Fri 8 John Lloyd Young @ Feinstein’s

Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room Donna Sachet hosts the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show, now celebrating its tenth anniversary. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.starlightroomsf.com

Sunday Brunch @ Thee Parkside Bottomless Mimosas until 3pm at the fun rock-punk club. 1600 17th St. 2521330. www.theeparkside.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550 Weekly two-stepping and linedancing fun, with lessons and DJed music (not just country). April 10 is a special 18th Anniversary Party, with free admission. 5pm-10:30pm. Also Thursdays. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org

On the Tab>>

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 67

Monday Musicals @ The Edge

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre

Sing along at the popular musical theatre night; also Wednesdays. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pmclosing. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Strip down as the strippers also take it all off. $20. 9pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

No No Bingo @ Virgil’s Sea Room Mica Sigourney and Tom Temprano cohost the wacky weekly game night at the cool Mission bar. 8pm. 3152 Mission St. www.virgilssf.com

Opulence @ Beaux Weekly dance night, with Jocques, DJs Tori, Twistmix and Andre. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf. com

Sun 10

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s

Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Vanessa Bousay @ Martuni’s

Vanessa Bousay @ Martuni’s The local drag chanteuse sings songs about Spring, rain and getting wet, accompanied by Tom Shaw and Roberta Drake. $15. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.martunis.ypguides.net

Mon 11

Drag Mondays @ The Cafe Mahlae Balenciaga and DJ Kidd Sysko’s weekly drag and dance night, with 9pm RuPaul’s Drag Race viewings. 9pm-1am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Epic Karaoke @ White Horse, Oakland Mondays and Tuesdays popular weekly sing-along night. No cover. 8:30pm1am. 6551 Telegraph Ave, (510) 6523820. www.whitehorsebar.com

Gaymer Meetup @ Brewcade The weekly LGBT video game enthusiast night includes big-screen games and signature beers, with a new remodeled layout, including an outdoor patio. No cover. 7pm-11pm. 2200 Market St. www.brewcadesf.com

Hysteria @ Martuni’s Irene Tu and Jessica Sele cohost the comedy open mic night for women and queers. No cover. 6pm-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St.

Karaoke Night @ SF Eagle Sing along, with guest host Nick Radford. 8pm-12am. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com

Mahogany Mondays @ Midnight Sun Honey Mahogany’s weekly drag and musical talent show starts around 10pm, with 9pm RuPaul’s Drag Race viewings. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Retro Night @ 440 Castro Jim Hopkins plays classic pop oldies, with vintage music videos. 9pm-2am. 44 Castro St. www.the440.com

Trivia Night @ Hi Tops Play the trivia game at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Una Noche @ Club BnB, Oakland Vicky Jimenez’ drag show and contest; Latin music all night. 9pm-2am. 2120 Broadway. (510) 759-7340. www.club-bnb.com

Underwear Night @ Club OMG Weekly underwear night includes free clothes check, and drink specials. $4. 10pm-2am. Preceded by Open Mic Comedy, 7pm, no cover. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com

Wed 13

Dream Queens Revue @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Bedlam @ Beaux

New weekly event with DJs Haute Toddy, Guy Ruben, Mercedez Munro and Abominatrix. Wet T-shirt/jock contest at 11pm. $5-$10. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Bone @ Powerhouse New weekly punk-alternative music night hosted by Uel Renteria and Johnny Rockitt. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com

Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the popular sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

B.P.M. @ Club BnB, Oakland

Classic drag show at the intimate Tenderloin bar, with Collette LeGrande, Ruby Slippers, Sophilya Leggz, Bobby Ashton, Sheena Rose, Kipper, and Joie de Vivre. 9:30-11:15. 133 Turk St. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Floor 21 @ Starlight Room Juanita More! presents a new weekly scenic happy hour event, with host Rudy Valdez, DJs Vin Sol and Rolo. No cover, and a fantastic panoramic city view. Sir Francis Drake Hotel, 450 Powell St. www.starlightroomsf.com

Latin Drag Night @ Club OMG Weekly Latin night with drag shows hosted by Vicky Jimenez. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com

Man Francisco @ Oasis

Olga T and Shugga Shay’s weekly queer women and men’s R&B hip hop and soul night, at the club’s new location. No cover. 8pm-2am. 2120 Broadway, Oakland. www.bench-and-bar.com

The sexy, funny weekly male burlesque show, choreographed by Christopher James Dunn; Mr Pam MCs. $20. 2 Two-drink min. 9:30pm. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com

See page 69 >>

Underwear Night @ 440 Strip down to your skivvies at the popular men’s night. 9pm-2am. 440 Castro St. 621-8732. www.the440.com

Tue 12

Block Party @ Midnight Sun Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Cock Shot @ Beaux Shot specials and adult Bingo games, with DJs Chad Bays and Riley Patrick, at the new weekly night. No cover. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Sat 9

Andrea Marcovicci and Shawn Ryan @ Great American Music Hall

Gaymer Night @ Eagle Gay gaming fun on the bar’s big screen TVs. Have a nerdgasm and a beer with your pals. 8pm. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com

Hella Saucy @ Q Bar Queer dance party at the stylish intimate bar. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

High Fantasy @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Weekly drag and variety show, with live acts and lip-synching divas, plus DJed grooves. $5. Shows at 10:30pm & 12am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

Meow Mix @ The Stud The weekly themed variety cabaret showcases new and unusual talents; MC Ferosha Titties. $3-$7. Show at 11pm. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

I am the future of the LGBT community. I’m 26 and transitioning. I have a lot going on - I don’t need to be mocked, misgendered, or marginalized, and I don’t have time to hunt out news that matters to me. That’s why I read EDGE on my Android tablet. I’m being true to my future - and that’s where it will be.

Sat 9 Juanita More! and drag crew at Soiree 2016 @ Terra Gallery

The person depicted here is a model. Their image is being used for illustrative purposes only.

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 69

Thu 14 Storm Large @ Feinstein’s

Gym Class @ Hi Tops

Storm Large @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko

Thursday Night Live @ SF Eagle

Enjoy whiskey shots from jockstrapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular sports bar. 10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

The vivacious singer from Pink Martini performs with her new band. $45$65. 8pm. Also April 15, 8pm, April 16, 7pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. www.ticketweb.com

Music night with local and touring bands. 8. 9:30pm. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

The Monster Show @ The Edge

Throwback Thursdays @ Qbar

The weekly drag show with themed nights, gogo guys and hilarious fun. $5. 9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

My So-Called Night @ Beaux

On the Tab

From page 67

Miss Kitty’s Trivia Night @ Wild Side West The weekly fun night at the Bernal Heights bar includes prizes, hosted by Kitty Tapata. No cover. 7pm-10pm. 424 Cortland St. 647-3099. www.wildsidewest.com

Open Mic/Comedy @ SF Eagle Kollin Holts hosts the weekly comedy and open mic talent night. 6pm-8pm. 398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com

Pussy Party @ Beaux Ladies night at the Castro dance club. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

So You Think You Can Gogo? @ Toad Hall The weekly dancing competition for gogo wannabes. 9pm. cash prizes, $2 well drinks (2 for 1 happy hour til 9pm). Show at 9pm. 4146 18th St. www.toadhallbar.com

Way Back @ Midnight Sun Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Wooden Nickel Wednesday @ 440 Buy a drink and get a wooden nickle good for another. 12pm-2am. 440 Castro St. 621-8732. www.the440.com

Thu 14

A.C.T.’s Supergala @ Regency Ballroom American Conservatory Theatre’s annual super fundraiser gala features Tony and Grammy nominee Jeremy Jordan (Newsies on Broadway, NBC’s Smash), M.F.A. and Young Conservatory student performances, a cocktail reception and lavish dinner, after-party with dancing and music. $750, $1,250, $2,750 and up. 5pm. 1300 Van Ness Ave. 439-2470. www.act-sf.org/gala

Bulge @ Powerhouse Grace Towers hosts the racy night with a $100 wet undies bulge contest at midnight. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com

Circle Jerk @ Nob Hill Theatre Porn stud Kurtis Wolfe leads the interactive downstairs sex party (before his April 15 & 16 duo shows with Draven Torres). $15. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

ns o i t a l u t a r g n Co rter o p e R a e r A y Ba on your 45th Anniversary!

Carnie Asada hosts a new weekly ‘90s-themed video, dancin’, drinkin’ night, with VJs Jorge Terez. Get down with your funky bunch, and enjoy 90-cent drinks. ‘90s-themed attire and costume contest. No cover. 9pm-2am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Enjoy retro 80s soul, dance and pop classics with DJ Jorge Terez. No cover. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Thump @ White Horse, Oakland Weekly electro music night with DJ Matthew Baker and guests. 9pm-2am. 6551 Telegraph Ave, (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Disco guru DJ Bus Station John spins grooves at the intimate retro music night; 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com Want your nightlife event listed? Email events@ebar.com, at least two weeks before your event. Event photos welcome.

BARtab

On the Tab>>

Nap’s Karaoke @ Virgil’s Sea Room Sing out loud at the weekly least judgmental karaoke in town, hosted by the former owner of the bar. No cover. 9pm. 3152 Mission St. 8292233. www.virgilssf.com

Picante @ The Cafe Lulu and DJ Marco’s Latin night with sexy gogo guys. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Queer Karaoke @ Club OMG

Sun 10 Bryan Hawn at Big Top @ Beaux

Dana hosts the weekly singing night; unleash your inner American Idol. 8pm. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com

Skate Night @ Church on 8 Wheels Groove on wheels at the former Sacred Heart Church-turned disco roller skate party space, hosted by John D. Miles, the “Godfather of Skate.” Also Wed, Thu, 7pm-10pm. Sat afternoon sessions 1pm-2:30pm and 3pm-5:30pm. $10. Kids 12 and under $5. Skate rentals $5. 554 Fillmore St at Fell. www.churchof8wheels.com

BEST Breakfast

BEST Late Night Restaurant

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

3991-A 17th Street • Market & Castro Streets • 415-864-9795

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

70 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

Besties: Dining & Drinks by Sean Timberlake

Best Brunch

ur palates have taken another revolution around the sun, with a leap day of extra eating no less, and it’s time once again to unveil your favorite places to nibble and sip in the area. There are a lot of familiar names on this list, so I’m going shake things up by adding a few suggestions for each category, in case you feel like venturing beyond the tried and true. It’s a big delicious city out there, people. Take a bite.

You heeded Squat & Gobble’s (3600 16th Street and other locations) imperative name and perched for their top-notch crêpes that span a global palette, borrowing from Mexican, Italian, and Greek flavors. Heck, they even have an entire panAsian noodle menu if you want to wake up the taste buds on a hungover Sunday. You’re also willing to brave the lines at homey SoMa spot Dottie’s True Blue Cafe (28 6th Street) for their comfort-driven menu. For something completely different, head to Bernal Heights’ ICHI Sushi/NI Bar (3282 Mission Street) for their Japanese-inflected brunch. Look for French toast with a savory hit of miso; hearty ramen with meatballs; and crispy potatoes with chicken fat hollandaise (what!).

Best Lunch

Maybe it’s the famous burger at Café Flore (2298 Market Street) that keeps you coming back. Maybe it’s the hearty salads. Maybe it’s the eye candy strolling along Market Street. Whatever the case, Flore is your top spot for a midday meal. Sustainably-minded burger joint Super Duper (2304 Market Street and other locations) also whets your appetite, as surely do those delectable pickles.

Mainstay Harvey’s (500 Castro Street) is another gayborhood draw, looking ten years younger after having a little work done over the holiday season. Just a few steps to the east, though, Mekong Kitchen (4039 18th Street) has recently started serving lunch seven days a week. The noodle bowls are fresh and flavorful, and while I’m sick to death of the term bone broth, their pho is deeply comforting and delicious.

dining

BARtab

Orphan Andy’s

Best Breakfast

What’s old is new. The venerable Formica-and-pleather-clad diner Orphan Andy’s (3991 17th Street), 42 years young, took the crown for serving up the most important meal of the day. Whether you’re hunkering down for a three-egg omelette or a hearty stack of banana or chocolate chip pancakes, this place hits the spot. Speaking of stacks, Hayes Valley greasy spoon Stacks (501 Hayes Street) got a nod in the runner up position. Should you be interested in breaking out beyond eggs and flapjacks, take a trek to the Outer Richmond to Cassava (3519 Balboa Street), serving up Semifreddi’s croissants and an exquisite Japanese breakfast of rice, miso soup, soft egg in dashi, and seaweed-mushroom salad. You can add natto on special request. Go ahead, I dare you.

Best Dessert

Steven Underhill

Cafe Flore

Anticipation is the best sauce, so the lines at Tartine Bakery (600 Guerrero Street) provide just enough seasoning to make it your top pick for sweet treats. Those lines exist for a reason, though, as their cakes and cookies are nearly without peer. Tartine unseated multiple-year winners Sweet Inspiration (2239 Market Street), which still took home the silver. However, I would be remiss if I did not tell you to go forthwith to 20th Century Cafe (198 Gough Street) and gorge on Chef Michelle Polzine’s ethereal Russian honey cake. It will spoil you for all other cakes forever.

Best Outdoor Patio

Fresh made-to-order sandwiches Burgers/American • Italian • Mediterranean • Eritrean BEER • WINE • LIQUOR • GATORADE • WATER CIGARETTES • SNACKS • CANDY

NICK’S FOODS 1659 MARKET STREET @ GOUGH, SAN FRANCISCO

The In-Voice Study explores the relationship between alcohol use and sexual behavior. You must be HIV+, sexually active, and a regular alcohol consumer. Participants will have two interviews over a 6-week period and may be assigned to 6 weeks of daily cell phone-based data collection. Compensation ranges from $70 - $190 over the 6-week period depending on the group one is assigned to. To see if you are eligible call Bob at 415.802.4500 or email in-voicestudy@ucsf.edu

tourist attractions, a Chinese restaurant menu, and, currently, a spy dossier.

Best Food Delivery App

Best Dinner

You’re wowed by the chow at Chow Food Bar (215 Church Street and other locations), which focuses on sustainable, organic ingredients and turns out satisfying fare from its wood-fired oven. You also had the hots for Firewood Café (4248 18th Street), also a traveler’s friend with outposts in both SFO and OAK. And you like nearby Cal-Ital Delfina (3621 18th Street) for their handmade pastas and that famous ribollita. Or maybe it’s the tripe. Molto buono. One to watch: Hearth Coffee (3985 17th Street) is more than just a spot for a cuppa. Chef Giulia, hailing from Matera, Puglia, Italy, is serving up threecourse pop-up dinners Wednesdays through Fridays with fresh, seasonal ingredients for under $30. The chef draws inspiration from the rustic cooking of her homeland.

Good old Café Flore takes the prize here yet again with their flatiron enclosed patio with unobstructed views of the parade of humanity on Market Street. Other notables you picked include the interior courtyard and ersatz movie theater at Foreign Cinema (2534 Mission Street), and the convivial biergarten at Zeitgeist (199 Valencia Street). But why not go to someplace that’s all patio? All Good Pizza (1605 Jerrold Avenue) dishes up thin-crust pies and hearty panini from a converted trailer in its spacious corner lot. The oft-misunderstood Bayview boasts some of the best weather in the city, and quietly has a visible LGBT presence.

A cup of Philz coffee

in the Castro I’m still a habitué of Spike’s (4117 19th Street), and over the hill in Noe Valley, be sure to check out LGBT-owned Spin City Coffee (1299 Sanchez Street), shoehorned into a laundromat. Owner Maricar is working with micro-local Noe Valley Coffee for a real grassroots approach to small business.

Best Late Night Restaurant

Let’s all put our hands on our hearts and have a moment of silence for all-night eatery Sparky’s, which shuttered abruptly in February. Luckily, Orphan Andy’s was able to assume the responsibilities of the previous winner, still dishing up the goods through the wee hours. Nob Hill fixture Grubstake (1525 Pine Street) also made the grade, though rumors of their eventual demise due to redevelopment are hopefully exaggerated. However, if you’re looking to get swankily tanked on the late, head over to Café du Nord (2174 Market Street), serving up a solid menu until 1:15 am. Plus, after midnight, raw oysters and champers are half off! Get your bubble on.

When you just want food to show up at your door, you hit up GrubHub (www.grubhub.com) to bring your favorite restaurants home. You also clicked with Eat24 (www. eat24.com) for more restaurant delivery, and for something different went with Munchery (www. munchery.com) for chef-designed meals that are ready to heat and eat. If you’re tired of the humdrum lunch options downtown, try Green Tiffin (www.greentiffin.com) for healthy, sustainably minded meals in reusable packaging by delivery crew on e-bikes. We sampled Green Tiffin’s wares at the B.A.R. offices, and found the flavors bright and fresh, with a global flair.

DRINKS Best Beer

Hey Stella! To quench your thirst, you hoist a Stella Artois the most, though Anchor Steam also fills the occasional pint. We live in one of the best cities in the world for beer, and picking just one is like picking your favorite child. You know you have one, but you’re not allowed to say. Personally, my favorite beer is the one in my hand.

Best Happy Hour Bites

Straight-gay sports bar Hi Tops (2247 Market Street) scored a home run with their pub grub and their sassy tagline (“Cold Pitchers, Hot Catchers”). You also rooted for the slightly more elevated bites at Nopa (560 Divisadero Street), as well as the antojitos and bocanas at Azúcar Lounge (299 9th Street). Should you find yourself in Noe Valley in the afternoon, though, be sure to pop in to Hamlet (1199 Church Street) for their new happy hour, featuring drinks and snacks for $8 or under.

Stella Artois beer

Best Vodka

You found Absolut absolutely fabulous, though you also go for Stoli with or without bolli. Sebastopol-based Spirit Works is best known for their gins, which are excellent indeed, but their vodka is a real standout, distilled enough to be smooth, but retaining the character of the grain it’s made from.

Best Gin

Hi Tops’ tasty snacks

Best Coffee Shop

Bay Area mini-empire Philz Coffee (549 Castro Street and other locations) grabbed you by the beans with their custom blends and lovingly poured cups. The classic Peet’s (2257 Market Street and other locations), celebrating 50 years in business, dripped in for a second place nomination, and Third Wave innovators Blue Bottle Coffee (multiple locations) aptly came in third. I admit, I’m Team Philz, and I love me a Blue Bottle NOLA, but when

Best Bar Menu

Hi Tops topped this list as well, though Harvey’s and balcony bar Lookout (3600 16th Street) also served some of your favorite absorption food. But the ultimate bar menu in town is at Trick Dog (3010 20th Street), where the menu itself is part of the experience. The bar’s innovative cocktails are presented on creatively designed menus themed as Pantone swatches, San Francisco

Bombay Sapphire is the bomb as far as you’re concerned, though floral and cucumber notes in Hendrick’s also appealed to the delicate flowers among you. If you want to go a little more top-shelf, dabble in Alameda-based St. George Spirits’ trio of craft gins. Terroir’s botanicals are inspired by the California coast, with sage, bay and Douglas fir, excellent in a G&T. Botanivore is more floral and herbal, complex and sophisticated. Dry Rye has a hearty punch of juniper, and is rested briefly on oak for structure. Call that for the best martini ever.

Best Whiskey

When bourbon is your call, a shot of Bulleit hits the spot, while Scotch lovers in the house Johnny Walker opt for. Keep an eye peeled for Seven Stills, produced in their newly launched distillery in the increasingly hip Bayview district. Seven Stills distills beers from local craft breweries including Pacific Brewing Laboratory and Almanac Brewing Company to produce whiskeys that showcase the source brews.t

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

72 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

Vows & vibrant vibes

Gareth Gooch

The formal Imperial Council Investiture of the new Reigning Empress Emma Peel and Reigning Emperor Salvador Tovar, held at Oasis April 3.

By Donna Sachet

his was a weekend for personal celebrations! Bright and early Saturday morning, we trekked to Golden Gate Park, meeting hundreds of friends on lovely Strawberry Hill for the wedding ceremony of Steven Satyricon & Andrew Christopher Darling. If ever a wedding embraced all that San Francisco represents, it was this one! From spectacular views and incredible weather to a swath of diverse guests attired creatively and comfortably, what a special and memorable day. Before the actual ceremony, we chatted with Sister Roma, Suzan Revah, Joanna Parks, Kate Hardin,

Jennifer Raviv, Kenshi Westover, Rusty Best, Tom Tarn, Troy Arnold & Ira Olney, Robert McLoud & Vanessa Bousay, and Scrumbly Koldewyn. The simple marriage ceremony was packed with meaning, reflecting the grooms’ earthy roots and spiritual aspirations, ending with fragrant potpourri tossed into the air and smiles all around. That night, we celebrated the birthday of Deana Dawn at The Stud, where Go Bang! and its followers added to the merriment. There for disco music, retro outfits, and delicious home-baked Italian cake were Cockatielia, Gary Virginia, Davida, Mike Wruble, Joshua Smith, John Weber, Richard Landry, Steve

Fabus, Sergio Fedasz, Frank Vera, cently stepped down, Emperor also caught up with Miguel Cory Anthony Johnson, Rick Latulippe, XLIII, A.N., Kevin Lisle & AbsoVaughn & Walter Vandernald, and a smattering of guests from the lute Empress L Khmera Rouge Gio Adame, Nathan Page, Ken wedding earlier that day. The finale (sporting a unicorn horn!) were Hamai & Jack Henyon, Andrea of the night was a masterful vogue on hand, proudly watching their Golden Gate, Cal Callahan, Barry performance by Jocquese Whitfield. kids get started. Beyond the hordes Miles, Lu Conrad, and visiting Deana does so much for so many all of San Francisco Monarchs, we Sondra Rae Sharitt. year long; we hope that she Packed within the fun felt the overwhelming love night were two particularly all around her. significant individuals. Then, we wrapped up Visiting from Palm Springs a weekend of celebrations was Absolute Empress XVI with a birthday party for Pushy Phyllis, who most Cicero Braganca at Sunrecently accepted the title day’s a Drag at The Starof Queen Mother of the light Room. A wonderImperial Court of San ful and varied group of Francisco, looking ravishfriends dined on a bountiing in red. ful brunch buffet and feted Also visiting was John this gentleman as he well Chase, who rallied the deserved, while drinks kept support over forty years coming and entertainment ago to create the Emperor by Holotta Tymes, Kentitle to balance the already Lee Gorbutt dra Monroe, Mahlae, and existing Empress title. As The Go Bang! crew this humble columnist rivyou can imagine, this was eted the audience. In the no small feat. All the San whirl of social events, large Francisco Emperors presand small, that San Franent honored him on stage cisco offers, let us never as he, in turn, honored lose sight of the power of Emperor XIV, After Norpersonal celebrations with ton, Matthew Brown, as those whom we love. King Father of the ImperiReigning Emperor Salal Court of San Francisco. vador Tovar and ReignExpect to hear great things ing Empress Emma Peel from Chase, who shares kicked off their reign with Brown’s commitment to Investiture last Sunday. Pay the accurate history of our no attention to rumors of organization and demtumbling guests and buffet onstrates a renewed affires; hundreds of supportfiliation with the Imperial ers joined them at Oasis Court. for Carnival of Burlesque As much as Investiture as they gave out specific is steeped in decades of court titles, gathering tradition and rightfully those individuals who will honors long-time heroes make up the Unified Court of the Imperial Court, we of Love and Friendship. were astounded by the The first part of the number of fresh new faces event is reserved for the in the crowd this year. Reformal Imperial Council cent Emperors and Eminvesting of the new Empresses have successfully peror and Empress, but recruited new title-holdTasha French Lemley very soon, the theme beers and volunteers, bringcame prominent, featur- Steven Satyricon & Andrew Christopher ing new vitality and fresh Darling’s outdoor nuptuals on Strawberry Hill ing performances by Their ideas. in Golden Gate Park. Most Imperial Majesties As indicated by some and their hand-picked enraised eyebrows and sly tertainers. asides, change is not alThis theme pushed peoways easy, especially for ple beyond their typical those who have been expressions, demonstrataround for a while. But ing heretofore unknown change is inevitable and talents and idiosyncrasies, when properly encourmost notably Mr. Gay San aged and managed, can Francisco Yayy Winn & bring about a renaissance. Miss Gay San Francisco We’ll remind you again Lily Rose (both singing of the Bay Area Reporter’s live), Mr. Cowboy Keith 45th Anniversary Party Hak, Miss Cowgirl Mary and Bestie Awards tonight, Wannah, & Ms. Cowgirl Thursday, April 7, at Oasis Eaton Percy (in a group from 6-9PM. Shawn Ryan number), Mr. Golden Gate emcees, Veronica Klaus, Leandro Gonzales & Miss Connie Champagne, JaCicero Braganca Golden Gate Rad Ronda, son Brock, and Kingdom! Piper Angelique McGro- Cicero Braganca’s birthday party at Sunday’s a perform, and you simply Drag at The Starlight Room on April 3. in, and many others. must be there! After over True highlights of the 3,000 votes cast, we’ll find night were guest emcees out who the winners are Hope Jewel-Halston and of this year’s Besties. And Savannah Jewel, who add you’ll have a chance to win wonderful theatrics and some juicy prizes. humor to any event. SevFriday night, we’re sure eral silent auction items to see you among the many drew attention and the attending the screening of quick live auction of two Last Men Standing at 7PM gift baskets, one from each at the Castro Theatre. Monarch, raised $900 in a Look around; we are still few minutes! Raffle ticket standing. sales were brisk and the And next week, don’t winner of the Puerto Valmiss the Gay Men’s Cholarta condo stay was the rus at Davies Symphony lovely Hope. Hall in Tales of Our City: This was the night to Our Lives, Our Heroes, thank Imperial Crown April 14 & 15, with gloriPrince Nic Hunter & Imous highlights from landperial Crown Princess Eva mark commissions Naked Sensitiva for their year of Man and I Am Harvey service and to welcome Milk, a world premiere Khmera Rouge new Imperial Crown by James Eakin, the Bay Prince David Bracamon- Emperor XLIII, A.N., Kevin Lisle & Absolute Area Rainbow Symphony, tes & Imperial Crown Empress L Khmera Rouge, honored by Supervisor and very special guest Scott Weiner for their year of service. Princess Ehra Amaya. Armistead Maupin. Get Of course having reyour tickets now!t

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 73

Besties Sexy: Dylan Strokes partner. I love the close, passionate, sweaty, and grunting sex that I have. For me uniforms, bondage, and wresting are all of my favorite scenes. Sometimes I love to share my experience with multiple guys at once. Right now I don’t see myself settling down with one person for the rest of my life. I think there is a difference between sex and lovemaking. I have a special place in my heart for a good dancer. Tell me about your gogo work. When I was first asked to gogo dance for House Party at Powerhouse, I was scared to say yes. Dancing was not one of the genes I inherited. Getting up on stage and having everyone watch me dance felt exhilarating, and it definitely made me rock hard dancing in only underwear in the bar. I learned how to let go of my self-doubt and how to have fun dancing atop a bar in my underwear.

PhotoByDot

Dylan Strokes

By Cornelius Washington

hat’s best about San Francisco is the non-pretentious attitude we have about the men who live, love and work their sexuality. Authenticity is on a premium here. We are not interested in the brand of your jeans, what products you use in your hair, or what car you drive. The three finalists in our Besties ‘Best Local Gay Male Porn Actor’ category all bring a level of sexuality in their private and professional lives that sets the standards for the local gay male porn business. Last year’s winner Leo Forte, and local fave Adam Ramzi were our runners-up. But this time, the top man is Dylan Strokes. In addition to being a local Leather title holder, he’s done a wild variety of scenes, from being bound and suspended, wrestling naked (for Kink.com), or in full-tilt fisting scenes for Club Inferno. And yet, all that kink is behind a boyish smile. After he discovered that he had been voted the best that San Francisco wants in a porn star, he gave us this interview.

to my fans first. It’s really quite an honor. What does sex mean to you professionally and personally? Professionally, the sex I have on set is fun, and definitely not all about business. I have been with, thankfully, few actors where a scene is all about business. With the vast majority of actors I have been with, we really enjoy the scene and we grab a beer afterwards. This gives me a chance to show off my cock and be a complete exhibitionist. Personally, the sex I have is all about the connection I have with my

The Powerhouse is one of my bars. Tell me about winning the 2015 Mr. Powerhouse title? Powerhouse has been one of my favorite bars in the city, and you will usually find me there on the weekends. Winning Mr. Powerhouse was a personal achievement for myself. I was told a few years ago by my ex that I shouldn’t run for that title because I would never win it. After he and I broke up, I decided it was time for me to do it. The most stressful part of running for Mr. Powerhouse was the panel of judges asking me about the leather history of the bar, past title holders, and how I plan on improving the bar’s image. After winning this title, I had tears in my eyes on stage. What is special about your porn work? I’m able to be someone different on screen and I get to have the sex that I really enjoy. With Kink.com, I love the wrestling scenes I’ve done. Starting out in just a Speedo and getting all hot and sweaty made me super hard. Other movies I’ve done are some really intense fisting videos. My absolute favorite was with Brian Bonds. Before we shot, I met him at HustlaBall in Las Vegas and found out we had a lot of chemistry together. That scene was one of my favorites so far.

Sex

What is your position on barebacking? Barebacking carries along a negative connotation in the gay community. I feel that there needs to be a open discussion of how often each person is tested for STIs, what their current HIV status is, whether they are on PrEP, or TasP (Treatment as Prevention), and possible drug use. Having this sort of conversation can lead to a better judgement of safer sex practices that may not always include condoms, while still protecting yourself.

Cornelius Washington: Congratulations! How do you feel about your new title? Dylan Strokes: Thank you very much! It’s very exciting to have people love me enough to vote for me as their favorite gay porn star. I wanted to say thank you

kink.com

Top: Adam Herst with Dylan Strokes in a Bound Gods video shoot. Bottom: Dyan Strokes and Kyle Kash in a Naked Kombat shoot.

What do you think San Francisco brings to the culture of gay male sexuality? San Francisco brings along a broader range of sexual identities. I’ve met some incredibly sexy transgender males, I think they are incredibly sexy people and they have a place in our gay male society. San Francisco leads the way in acceptance of nonconformity, especially in leather. For example, my title son Element Eclipse worked the stage at SF Leather in a leather corset and looked incredible in it.

What do you think will be the evolution of gay male sexuality in the Bay Area, and what part will you play in it? The evolution of gay male sexuality is becoming a lot more open to being who you want to be. I see myself supporting people who feel like they ‘don’t belong’ by telling them that they do belong here. I feel that we are able to embrace our multiple identities, whether it’s the tough leather

look, the sporty jock outfit, or getting comfortable wearing heels on stage.t Read more sexy tales with Dylan online at www.ebar.com/bartab Follow Dylan Strokes at www.twitter.com/DylanStrokesXXX See Cornelius Washington’s erotic photography at www.CuirPhoto.com

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

74 • Bay Area Reporter • April 7-13, 2016

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Bestie Sexies Where to go to get off

Good Vibrations’ Mission Street shop.

nist yet male-friendly ambiance, our voters chose Good Vibrations. www.goodvibes.com

Best Place to Meet an Online Date/Hookup Steamworks Berkeley

Best Sex Venue

by Cornelius Washington

here to get your sexy on, or to get stuff to get sexy? Here are your choices in our sexy, and sexual, Bestie categories.

Best Dating App

The nominees were Scruff, Grindr and Growlr. All three of these phone apps are the standards by which all others are judged, and you gotta love Growlr for its love for the bear community. But the app on top, however, according to your votes, is Scruff. www.scruff.com

Steamworks Berkeley, Blow Buddies, Eros and the Nob Hill Theatre. The four nominees rock without shame, stigma, or blemish. But the dream palace of sex in the Bay Area is Steamworks Berkeley, where truly the man sex goes unrestrained. Make out, bathe, and start again, or enjoy the special themed nights with DJs playing horny grooves. www.steamwor ksbaths.com/ berkeley

Sex

Best Place to Buy Sex Toys

Good Vibrations and Mr. S Leather.; a lot of gay men have sex toys and use them regularly no matter how much sex they are getting. In the Castro, an excellent fallback position to buy your sexual smorgasbord is Worn Out West. Several other shops like Rock Hard and Does Your Mother Know offer a wide array of lubricants, porn DVDs, and novelty items. Here in San Francisco, Good Vibrations, the pinnacle of retail sex emporiums, serves the Bay Area’s needs with seven locations (and an eighth in Brookline, Massachusetts!). The non-judgemental and helpful sales staff is a big plus. On a modern level, with a femi-

The three mind-blowing nominees were the SF Eagle, Blow Buddies, and Beck’s Motor Lodge (Hey, some people like to get to the point). They are the truth in San

Francisco proper among the most efficient places for a quickie intro. Your votes made the most interesting decision. The SF Eagle leads the pack. But if your date went really well, you don’t drink booze or beer, or you want to talk afterwards, Wicked Grounds Coffee House is a great place to chat, kiss, and have a latté). www.sf-eagle.com.t

Rich Stadmiller

Manly men at the SF Eagle

Read more online at www.ebar.com

April 7-13, 2016 • Bay Area Reporter • 75

Shooting Stars 1.

photos by Steven underhill Besties Batch

hotographer Steven Underhill (who won Best Wedding Photographer again) goes all over the Bay Area to capture nightlife and cultural events. Here are just a few of his fun shots from the past year that feature Bestie-winning people and venues. Thanks, Steven! More event photo albums are on BARtab’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/lgbtsf.nightlife. See more of Steven Underhill’s photos at www.StevenUnderhill.com.

1. An after-show reception with American Conservatory Theatre (Best Theatre Company) at the Geary Theatre. 2. Cocktails at Blackbird (Best Stray [straight/gay] Bar). 3. Steve Grand performs at SF Pride (Best LGBT Event) in 2015.

4. Impulse, a special event at Café Flore (Best Lunch, Outdoor Patio).

5. A couple at a California Academy of Sciences party (Best Nature/Science Museum; Unusual Nightlife Event). 6. Pour another at The SF Eagle (Best Place to Meet Men and Best Place to Meet an Online Date/ Hookup, and the site of Best Theme Night: Pound Puppy). 7. Erick Lopez (Best Bartender) and Heklina, co-owner of Oasis, which won eight categories (See the Best Bars article), at last year’s Besties party.

10.

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8. Michael Sam during Super Bowl 50 weekend at Hi Tops (Best Sports Bar, Best Game Night [Bottoms UpBingo], Best Happy Hour Bites, Best Bar Menu). 9. A happy couple at Qbar (Best Place to Meet Women). 10. Peaches Christ (Best Drag Queen) at SF Sketchfest, held at The Castro Theatre (Best Movie Theatre, previous years). 11. Veronica Klaus (Best LGBT Band/Musician) at last year’s Besties. 12. Marga Gomez (Best Female Comic) at last year’s Bestie party at Oasis.

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For headshots, portraits or to arrange your wedding photos

call (415) 370-7152 or visit www.StevenUnderhill.com or email stevenunderhillphotos@gmail.com