June 4, 2015 Edition of the Bay Area Reporter

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START study supports early HIV treatment

Vol. 45 • No. 23 • June 4-10, 2015

SF makes headway on LGBT senior issues

Honoring those no longer here

by Liz Highleyman

by Matthew S. Bajko

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ong-awaited results from the START study, released ahead of schedule, show that people with HIV who start treatment early have a significantly lower risk of illness Liz Highleyman and death than those who wait.

Dr. Diane Havlir Specifically, people who were randomly assigned to start antiretroviral therapy (ART) while their CD4 T-cell count was above 500 had a 53 percent lower likelihood of AIDSrelated and non-AIDS events and deaths compared to those who delayed treatment until their CD4 count fell below 350.

“We now have clear-cut proof that it is of significantly greater health benefit to an HIVinfected person to start antiretroviral therapy sooner rather than later,” National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director Anthony Fauci said in the May 27 announcement. “These findings have global implications for the treatment of HIV.” Other AIDS experts also weighed in.

“The study confirms that starting antiretroviral therapy early and not waiting – even when people feel well – is beneficial for an HIV-positive person’s health,” Dr. Diane Havlir, chief of the Positive Health Program at San Francisco General Hospital, told the Bay Area Reporter. “START provides more data for remaining skeptics about the benefit of early therapy.”

Project Inform officials noted that the study findings support existing guidelines.

“Even in San Francisco, which has some of the highest HIV treatment and viral suppression rates in the country, we struggle to get everyone on treatment who needs it,” said Project Inform’s David Evans. “The START study findings support the long-standing guidelines that early treatment benefits everyone and merits the developing strategies of the city’s Getting to Zero campaign.”

That campaign’s goal is to cut HIV transmissions by 90 percent by 2020.

San Francisco leads the way

Several observational studies have found that starting HIV treatment sooner is associated with better outcomes. But until now the optimal timing of early ART has not been confirmed by randomized, controlled clinical trials – the “gold standard” for medical evidence.

It is well known that starting treatment before extensive immune system damage reduces disease progression and death. Once See page 12 >>

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Rick Gerharter

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t the ride out Sunday, May 31, at the Cow Palace, AIDS/LifeCycle participants joined in wheeling a riderless bike through the waiting cyclists as they paid tribute to those who have died. Now in its 14th year, the 545-mile journey to Los Angeles includes 2,350 riders who raised a

combined $16.3 million to fight HIV/AIDS. The funds are divided between the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. SFAF officials said the amount raised this year is a record, shattering last year’s total by more than $800,000.

The ride wraps up Saturday in southern California.

hen San Francisco officials were formally presented last April with a plan to address the needs of the city’s fast growing LGBT senior population, they vowed not to allow it to collect dust on a shelf in the bowels of City Hall.

Thirteen months later, much headway has been achieved in tackling the 13 areas of concern listed in the 120-page document, titled “LGBT Aging at the Golden Gate: San Francisco Policy Issues and Recommendations.” It included 40 specific steps the city could take that would benefit its LGBT senior population, estimated to number nearly 20,000 residents age 60 or older.

“My personal view is a lot has been done,” said Bill Ambrunn, a gay man and attorney who chaired the LGBT Aging Policy Task Force, which disbanded once its report was complete.

“I think we absolutely achieved our goal of not producing just another report that collects dust.”

See page 8 >>

Out prosecutor oversees SF’s white-collar cases

by Seth Hemmelgarn

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he prosecutor who’s part of the San Francisco District Attorney’s task force investigating allegations of abuses by sheriff ’s deputies and who’s overseeing the case against the Uber ridesharing company said recently, “What I love about my job is that every day I get to wear the white hat.”

June Cravett, 57, a lesbian, who serves as chief of DA George Gascón’s white-collar crime division, said, “Whether it’s running a fraudulent business out of town and getting restitution to victims who have been defrauded of their life savings, or prosecuting public corruption cases, at the end of the day my job is simply to do what’s right and to do justice. Not many attorneys can say that about their job.”

Cravett, who joined the DA’s office in March 1996, took over the white-collar crime division five years ago after overseeing that team’s units dedicated to protecting consumers and the environment, among other posts.

As division chief, Cravett also oversees the public integrity unit, which includes everything from election fraud to officer-involved shootings; elder financial abuse, high tech crime, and welfare fraud, and other units.

Among the widely known cases Cravett is involved with is the DA’s task force investigating law enforcement scandals that erupted this year.

In March, Public Defender Jeff A 1982 graduate of the UC Davis Adachi announced allegations that School of Law, Cravett, who’s origisheriff ’s deputies had made inmates nally from Brooklyn, New York, fight – and gambled on the bouts. joined the San Mateo County DisAnother case that’s been investitrict Attorney’s office in 1983. gated by Cravett’s unit involves gay She stayed for three years, before ex-police officer Mike Evans. Allegaeventually starting her own civil tions emerged in February that Evans practice, where she represented had embezzled more than $16,000 plaintiffs and then defendants on from the department’s Pride Alliance cases such as medical malpractice. for LGBT officers. According to at Assistant Chief Cravett joined the San Francisco least one alliance member, Evans has District Attorney DA’s office in 1996 after she learned paid back several thousand dollars. of an opening for a consumer fraud June Cravett The DA’s office is expected to anattorney. nounce soon whether it will file charges in the Besides Cravett, who lives in Oakland with case. The Bay Area Reporter hasn’t been able to her partner Kimberly Reifel, 50, the white-colreach Evans. lar division includes 15 lawyers and 13 investiCravett declined to comment on any of the gators, who Cravett praised. cases she or her division is currently examining, With advances in technology, “evidence is but she said the public integrity work is “one of going to be found in all types of devices,” and the most important things we do.” many crimes are committed online, Cravett said.

“To the extent that there’s anybody in law “When everything moves to the Internet,” enforcement or in the criminal justice system ... whether it’s getting a cab or an apartment, who might be abusing their position, it’s criti“crime moves there, too,” she said, and investically important there are folks who are spend- gations take different kinds of expertise. ing as much energy as possible making sure In December, the DA’s office and Los Angethey don’t do it, and if they do it, they are made les County District Attorney Jackie Lacey anaccountable for that,” she said. nounced a civil consumer protection lawsuit Cravett is intimately familiar with the inner against Uber Technologies Inc., for allegedly viworkings of agencies dedicated to enforcing the See page 9 >> law.

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2 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

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Rally ahead of moratorium vote Rick Gerharter

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ousing activist Tommi Avicolli Mecca speaks to a May 30 rally organized by the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club to support a 45-day moratorium on market rate housing in the

Mission district proposed by Supervisor David Campos. At the Board of Supervisors June 2 meeting, the moratorium, which needed nine votes to pass, was rejected by 7-4.

Welch pleads guilty in Doubtfire arson

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transgender woman pleaded guilty recently to setting fire to the San Francisco house made famous in the 1993 film Mrs. Doubtfire.

Tyqwon Eugene Welch’s plea came weeks after she told the Bay Area Reporter she was innocent.

“I didn’t do any of that stuff,” Welch, 26, of Los Angeles, said in a jailhouse interview in March.

Welch has been in custody since shortly after two fires were set January 5 at the Doubtfire house, at 2640 Steiner Street, in Pacific Heights.

In an emailed statement Monday, June 1, Deputy Public Defender Elizabeth Hilton, Welch’s attorney, said, “Miss Welch considered the serious nature of the charges against her and the risks inherent in trial and decided this was the best resolution in light of those risks. She is looking forward to returning to Los Angeles so she can put this incident behind her.”

In May, Welch pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawfully causing a fire to an inhabited structure and one count of possession of an incendiary device, Max Szabo, a spokesman for the district attorney’s office, said Monday.

All three charges are felonies, but none of them counts as a strike,

which could have enand Welch had a dispute hanced punishment for over the facial feminizaany future crimes. tion surgery he performed Welch had also been on her in June 2014. charged with attempted Welch, who paid about murder, but Szabo said $45,000 for the procedure, it had been “determined eventually wanted a rethere wasn’t sufficient fund, he said. That refund evidence” to sustain that was denied. Welch told count, and it was dropped. the B.A.R. that none of According to the public the procedures she’d disdefender’s office, Welch is Tyqwon Eugene cussed with Ousterhout Welch set to be released Thurs“came out right.” day, June 4, when she’s Ousterhout testified expected to be sentenced to five that he’d been at his home at about years of probation. Following sen12:25 p.m. January 5 when he heard tencing guidelines, since she’s been something at the mailbox. He went in custody since early January, she to his door and saw Welch “with will have already served the yearlong most of my mail in her hands.” jail term that’s also expected to be Ousterhout said he got the mail back part of her sentence. from her, and started to re-enter the Welch, who entered her guilty house when Welch “pushed me in pleas May 14 and was still in custody and closed the door behind her.” She on $750,000 bail as of Monday, will asked for his checkbook but eventualso have to register as an arsonist ally left. (Ousterhout didn’t say he for life. Additionally, she’s been orgave her the checkbook.) dered to stay away from Dr. Douglas The doctor told the court that Ousterhout, 79, the home’s owner, later that evening he was in his and another doctor, among other kitchen at about 8:15 p.m. when he terms. She’ll be able to transfer her smelled gasoline and saw “the front probation to Los Angeles. door was glowing.” He opened his Ousterhout, who didn’t immedifront door to find the doormat on ately respond to a request for comfire. He soon realized the door also ment for this story, testified in a See page 10 >> March preliminary hearing that he

Woman charged in Zipcar thefts

by Seth Hemmelgarn

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San Francisco woman is facing seven felony charges that she stole Zipcars in recent months.

In court, Nicole Dipo, 28, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against her, but she recently told ABC

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channel 7 that she did getting into another Zipcar. steal seven of the shortShe was arrested and subterm rental cars because it sequently charged with the gave her “a high.” theft of that car, along with As reported in other an additional Zipcar. media outlets, Dipo’s arOn top of the seven rest in mid-April appears Zipcar thefts, Dipo’s also to have led to a sharp charged with two felony drop in Zipcar thefts. counts of receiving stoCourtesy ABC7 Max Szabo, a spokeslen Zipcars, and a felony man for the district at- Nicole Dipo count of buying or receivtorney’s office, said that ing stolen vehicle tracking between March 1 and devices and other items. mid-April, 76 Zipcars were stolen in Additionally, she’s been charged the city, while between April 12 and with five misdemeanor counts that May 15, only three were stolen. include possession of burglary It’s not clear whether Dipo identools, receiving or buying stolen tifies as transgender, but court recredit cards and IDs, and driving on cords say she’s also known as Ray a suspended license.

Charles Dipo and Regina Dipo.

Dipo’s pleaded not guilty to all Ruth Edelstein, Dipo’s attorney, counts. didn’t respond to interview requests In court documents filed on her Tuesday afternoon, June 2. behalf in May, attorney Josh Davis Dipo’s next court date is Thursday, said she has “no violent history.”

June 4 for a prehearing conference.

Court records show that in JanuShe’s in custody on $225,000 bail. ary 2010, Dipo was convicted of veSzabo said Dipo was initially arresthicle theft in San Francisco. Docued April 12, and she was charged April ments also indicate that around 16 with stealing five Zipcars. Accord2009 she was convicted of attempting to court records, San Francisco ed auto theft.

Superior Court Judge Ethan SchulA statement emailed by Zipcar man released her on her own recogspokeswoman Jennifer Mathews nizance at her arraignment April 17. said, “As a matter of policy, Zipcar The next day, Szabo said, California does not comment on investigations Highway Patrol personnel saw her that are ongoing.”t

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Community News>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 3

13 events mark 13 years of Pride in Napa compiled by Cynthia Laird

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apa Valley’s LGBTQ community and allies will celebrate 13 years of Pride gatherings in Napa with 13 fun-filled events June 11-18.

Napa’s first official Pride gathering took place in 2003.

“That first year, we had a dance party and a family picnic,” said Rob Doughty.

This year, events span eight days at various venues.

The kick-off event is a mix and mingle party Thursday, June 11 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Q Restaurant and Bar, 3900 Bel Aire Plaza.

Other events throughout the week include a family-friendly cook-out during the day and a comedy and dance night June 13; a drag brunch June 14; intergenerational youth and seniors luncheon June 15; a locals’ night June 16; pizza party June 17; and the closing event June 18 will be an art show and screening of Sin Visa (Without a Visa).

Wine tastings and a bonfire party are also among the activities.

More information is available online at www. napavalleypride.com, and events are conveniently marked with icons like “low or no cost,” and “includes activities for children.”

Organizers with the all-volunteer Napa Valley LGBTQ Pride planning team said that everyone is welcome as the valley celebrates Pride.

Pink triangle seeks volunteers

Pink triangle co-founder Patrick Carney is hoping for lots of volunteers for this year’s milestone 20th annual installation of the icon atop Twin Peaks in San Francisco.

The pink triangle, originally used by the Nazis in concentration camps to identify and shame gays, now represents a symbol of Pride.

The display of the gigantic canvass triangle, which can be seen from the East Bay if the weather is clear, is meant to educate others about the hatred of the past, noted Carney, who will receive the Gilbert Baker Pride Founder’s Award this year from the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee for his work on the project over the years.

Carney humorously noted that “the giant pink triangle just doesn’t float up onto Twin Peaks each year, it takes over 125 volunteers to make the display possible by climbing the hill and installing over 175 bright pink canvasses and hammering them to the hill with thousands of 12-inch long steel spikes.”

The installation takes place Saturday, June 27 from 7 to 10 a.m., followed by the ceremony at 10:30.

Then, volunteers are needed Sunday, June 28 from 4:30 to 8 p.m. (after the Pride parade) to take down the triangle.

People who are interested in helping out should bring a hammer and gloves, wear closed-toe shoes (sandals are not recommended), and wear sunscreen. Fashionable pink triangle T-shirts will be provided to all who help.

To sign up, email friends@ thepinktriangle.com or visit www. thepinktriangle.com. The site includes detailed driving instructions, videos of previous installations and ceremonies, and more.

‘Generations HIV’ online project to launch

The HIV Story Project will of-

Courtesy Napa Valley LGBTQ Pride planning team

People showed their pride at last year’s Napa Pride rally.

ficially launch its Generations HIV online video archive with an event on the steps of San Francisco City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Friday, June 5 at 9:30 a.m.

The archive will initially be home to more than 500 videos that users can explore and share, with more content being added weekly. The launch coincides with National HIV/AIDS Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day and the 34th anniversary of the day when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the first case of AIDS in the U.S. Expected to be on hand at the City Hall event will be Supervisor Scott Wiener; Marc Smolowitz, executive producer of the HIV Story Project; John Cunningham, executive director of the National AIDS Memorial Grove; Tez Anderson, founder of Let’s Kick ASS (AIDS Survivor Syndrome); the Reverend MacArthur Flournoy, director of faith and partnerships and mobilization for the Human Rights Campaign; and Vincent Fuqua, from the San Francisco Department of Public Health.

Following remarks, a website demonstration of the video archive will be shown in room 278 of City Hall.

Once the site is live, it can be viewed at www.generationshiv.org.

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Bay Area Reporter

Oakland Youth Commission seeks member

Out Oakland City Councilwoman and Vice Mayor Rebecca Kaplan (at-large), is accepting nominee applications for the city’s youth commission. The appointed nominee will be the representative for the at-large City Council office.

The purpose of the panel is to identify the needs of youth between the ages of 13 and 21, create citizen awareness of such needs, advise the mayor and City Council on youth issues, and serve as the city’s youth policy recommending body.

A staff member in Kaplan’s office said that they are hoping to fill the position later this month.

Interested people can download the application at http://www2.oaklandnet.com/oakca1/groups/dhs/ documents/marketingmaterial/ oak042329.pdf. Completed forms should be sent to Kaplan’s office at atlarge@oaklandnet.com.

Hayward Gay Prom turns 21

The Hayward Gay Prom, one of the earliest such events for LGBT youth, turns 21 this year and several hundred people are expected at the event, which takes place Saturday, June 6 from 7 p.m. to midnight at Chabot College, 25555 Hesperian Boulevard. The prom is alcohol and drug free and is attended by variSee page 6 >>

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<< Open Forum

4 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Volume 45, Number 23 June 4-10, 2015 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 • 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 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 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Lance Roberts NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Rivendell Media – 212.242.6863

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There is no free ride for housing

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he way some activists put it on social media sites, you would think they expect people to pay no rent to live in the Bay Area. An Oakland activist on the OK Council Twitter account posted a comment about “affordable” rent (scare quotes theirs) being $1,400 in that city and too high. Actually, that’s not bad, especially compared to San Francisco. But let’s face it, many housing activists – and some city leaders – cry foul when a market-rate project is proposed even if it contains the minimum or above minimum requirements for affordable housing.

The dust-up over gay Supervisor David Campos’ proposed Mission moratorium, which fell short of the nine votes it needed for passage Tuesday, is a case in point. The city’s housing crisis is partly the result of not building enough units – at all price points – to keep pace with demand. Last year, only 65 new units were built in the Mission and neighborhood rents increased by 20 percent, according to a fact sheet from gay Supervisor Scott Wiener and his colleague, Supervisor Mark Farrell.

They and others opposed to the moratorium support the creation of new units at all levels of affordability by increasing funding for the production of affordable and middle-income housing, and increasing density and up-zoning in exchange for increased production of affordable and middle-income units.

As Farrell noted at Tuesday’s board meeting, “This crisis didn’t start today. We should have started this conversation years ago.”

For better or worse, the city’s housing policy is tied to market-rate construction. It’s the fees generated by market-rate housing, expected to be $227 million over the next five years, that will pay for affordable housing. If the moratorium had passed, that money wouldn’t be available.

Wiener has also proposed new tenant protection legislation that will require notice to all tenants, regardless of whether their unit is officially recorded, when a property owner files for permits to demolish their units. There’s a significant loophole in the current law that requires property owners to notice tenants only in legally permitted units. That has left

thousands of tenants vulnerable to losing their homes with no notice ahead of time and no opportunity to contest the demolition.

This will by no means solve the lack of affordable housing in San Francisco. It is, however, one more tool that can provide tenants with a way to fight back in a city where they enjoy strong protections.

In recent years, Wiener has passed legislation to allow more in-law units in the Castro, which could be beneficial to LGBT seniors, and to relax density use limits when at least 20 percent of a project’s units are affordable.

Supervisor Jane Kim’s opposition to the San Francisco Giants’ development project is also worth mentioning. Last year she said she supported a proposal that projects include 30 percent below market rate housing. The Giants came back with 33 percent – more than she wanted – and now Kim wants a ballot measure that could scuttle the whole project, which would include 1,500 units of housing, eight acres of parkland, and 1.5 million square feet of

commercial space. At issue, Kim says, are height limits (which voters will already weigh in on) and a lower threshold for area median income.

There seems to be an attitude among some public officials that development is bad, yet the city needs more housing.

Maybe San Francisco leaders should look to Oakland. On the job only six months, City Councilman Abel Guillen this week announced that he’s negotiated the inclusion of 30 permanently affordable units of housing on the site of a project at 12th Street, and more than $1 million for the city’s affordable housing fund that will be used to build more units elsewhere.

Additionally, he announced $700,000 worth of community benefits as part of the proposal for a controversial housing project near Lake Merritt. The benefits are subject to City Council approval. But in any case, Guillen, who identifies as two-spirit, has proven in a very short amount of time that 1) he has made affordable housing a priority and 2) that he’s able to compromise and work with developers to secure additional funds and benefits. It’s that second part that seems to be lacking in San Francisco, where “compromise” is a dirty word.t

Revival of California’s state parks is underway

by John Laird

Eliminate the park maintenance backlog. alifornia’s state parks rival Make the Department staff a any collection of natural and model of innovation that reflects cultural resources worldwide. In a California’s diversity.

California state park, a person may Reflect California’s ethnic, age, spot gray whales spouting from an sexual orientation, and income ocean cliff, peer into the kitchen diversity among park users. cupboard of an abandoned home Collaborate with public agencies in a high-desert ghost town, or walk and non-profit groups to manage the riverside oak gallery that harnatural, historical, cultural, and recbors the state’s last population of reational assets as an interconnected Donner Lake is part of Donner Memorial State Park, a beautiful landscape of parks and open space. riparian brush rabbit.

These parks reflect the grandeur camping and recreational area off Highway 80 near Truckee.

Ensure that every city dweller in and history of an enormously varCalifornia lives within a safe, halfCreate a statewide nonprofit strategic partner ied and ecologically and culturmile walk of a well-maintained park. capable of raising funds for key parks projects. ally rich state. They embody our heritage as Inspire a younger generation to use, care Expand park access for underserved commuCalifornians. for, and seek careers in the parks system. nities, urban residents, and younger generaIf you have visited any of the 279 units of the Sustainably fund state parks through a tions. Establish a reliable, dedicated funding California State Parks system in recent years, combination of revenue generation, the structure for state parks, including a more you may have noticed that curtailed services, state’s general fund, and dedicated public entrepreneurial revenue-generating strategy. shorter hours, higher fees, and a maintenance funding.

As part of this transformation, the Departbacklog have tarnished this heritage.

Come visit a state park, and know that a transment of Parks and Recreation is moving to A transformation is needed – and underformation is underway. If you head to the mounallow visitors to use credit and debit way. Under the leadership of Govertains this summer, consider stopping at the new cards or smartphones to pay ennor Jerry Brown, a Parks Forward Donner Memorial State Park Interpretive Visitor trance and parking fees, where posCommission was established in Center off Interstate 80 near Donner Lake. New sible. The department is providing 2012 to examine the steady deteexhibits, expanded interpretive programs, and a panoramic views of parks on its rioration of state parks, find ways modern auditorium help tell the region’s stories, website, so potential visitors can to reverse that course, and make which go beyond the ill-fated Donner Party emisee trails before they set out on our parks system sustainable. grants who spent the winter of 1846-47 snowa hike. More cabins are slated for The commission – a group bound nearby. In the revamped visitor center, the parks system, to appeal to visof business, academic, conyou can also learn of the Washoe tribe that first itors who may not want to pitch a servation, and parks leaders settled the area, the Chinese workers who helped tent. In an important behind-the– announced its findings and build the Transcontinental Railroad, and the hisscenes adjustment, the department recommendations in July 2014. They set forth tory of the Emigrant Trail and motor vehicle trafalso has begun reporting to the Legislature each short-term actions that are either already fic over the Sierra Nevada summit. year the expenditures for each individual park completed or well underway: Create a transTo learn more about your parks, visit http:// unit – a first step to better fiscal management. formation team in the California Department www.parks.ca.gov/.t Beyond actions that can be taken in the next of Parks and Recreation to transform its orcouple of years, the Parks Forward Commisganizational structure and modernize its sysJohn Laird, a gay former state lawmaker, sion has set forth a vision to be achieved over tems, tools, and technology. Open a pathway is the secretary of the California Natural the next decade. Goals for 2025 include: Resources Agency. to leadership for the most qualified employees.

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Politics>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 5

Library group takes lead in promoting LGBT books

by Matthew S. Bajko

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ong a cheerleader for LGBT books, the American Library Association has increased its support for such literature by assuming oversight of GLBT Book Month, annually celebrated in June.

Originally established in the early 1990s by the Publishing Triangle as National Lesbian and Gay Book Month, this year marks the first commemoration of the 30-day promotion under the ALA’s auspices.

The association’s Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services and its Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table are coordinating the initiative. It is promoting its Rainbow Books list for youth and its Over the Rainbow Books list for adults online and on twitter through the hashtag #GLBTBookMonth.

The promotion culminates at the ALA’s 2015 annual conference being held later this month in San Francisco with a number of events and programs focused on LGBT issues and services.

“The Publishing Triangle, which has been a leader in positioning GLBT books at the forefront of literature, had the foresight to initiate this event almost a quarter century ago, and we are very proud to continue this important observance,” stated ALA President Courtney Young, the head librarian and an associate professor of women’s studies at Penn State University’s Greater Allegheny Campus. “We are incredibly appreciative of the historic work and brave first steps taken by many authors and publishers over the past 50 years to bring recognition to GLBT literature.”

Karen Sundheim, the program manager for the James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center at the San Francisco Public Library, told the Bay Area Reporter that the ALA bringing its “love of books” to focus on LGBT literature is sure to have positive impacts.

“I think it will really help to have the library association promoting its GLBT Book Month. We are talking about libraries all over the United States, not just in San Francisco,” said Sundheim, who will be taking part in a number of panels and events at the ALA’s conference.

“In that way the ALA taking it over will mean a much bigger reach and it is very exciting.”

For five decades now the ALA has supported and promoted quality LGBT literature. In 1971 it launched its Stonewall Book Awards, yearly honors for the very best in LGBT books, including adult literature, non-fiction, and children’s and young adult titles.

The oldest such library association, the ALA is known as “the voice of America’s libraries.” By marshaling its 56,000 members to celebrate GLBT Book Month, the ALA believes it can attract far greater attention among the public to the annual event.

“We can have more of a reach in terms of our exposure among librarians who do a lot of book

On the web Online content this week includes the Bay Area Reporter’s online columns, Political Notes and Wedding Bells Ring; and the Out in the World column. www.ebar.com.

American Library Association’s Peter Coyl

reading, purchasing, and recommending,” said Peter Coyl, 35, a gay man who is the incoming chair of the ALA’s GLBT Round Table.

“Because of the unique work we do with a wide population and the type of people we reach, we can give it more exposure.”

The district manager for the Dallas Public Library, Coyl said marking GLBT Book Month is “pretty new” for the Texas city’s libraries. Through its Twitter account @DallasLibrary, it is tweeting out a book suggestion each day in June.

So far it has recommended Prelude to Bruise, Saeed Jones’ 2014 book of poetry, and the 2014 children’s picture book This Day in June by Sacramentobased author Gayle E. Pitman. The book’s cover illustration by Kristyna Litten has been turned into a poster to promote this year’s GLBT Book Month.

As librarians, “we are unbiased in terms of what we recommend,” said Coyl. “We are able to recommend or suggest books to readers that maybe other groups wouldn’t be able to because of their focus.”

Even as LGBT issues gain more prominence in the culture and growing public acceptance, censorship of LGBT titles continues to be an issue. Over the past decade, 361 challenges due to “homosexuality” were reported to the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom.

In third place on its 2014 top ten list of most frequently challenged books was And Tango Makes Three, a 2005 children’s picture book that features two male penguins raising a chick. Among the reasons the book is flagged, according to the ALA, is because it “promotes the homosexual agenda.”

“I think some people are naive.

They take for granted the freedoms they enjoy in the Bay Area. But actually banned books is a serious problem in many places, including as you say California,” said Sundheim, who has overseen the Hormel Center’s collection of 10,000 titles since 2007.

Support among publishers and booksellers for diverse books, whether by LGBT authors or people of color, also remains an issue. It sparked the creation last year of the We Need Diverse Books campaign to promote a wider array of titles for children and young adults.

Ilene Gregorio, a founding member of the campaign and its vice president of development, said promotions like GLBT Book Month can help to raise awareness about books that may not receive the same marketing attention as titles by established authors.

“Writers can write diverse books

but publishers have to buy them and sales teams have to know how to sell them so they are available.

The lifecycle of a book is very short; if it doesn’t sell well the first month it will be off the shelves,” said Gregorio, who this spring published her first novel, None of the Above, inspired by an intersex youth she met while attending Stanford’s medical school.

The ALA’s Coyl said one of the main purposes for GLBT Book Month is to ensure librarians and others are made aware of the wide variety of literature out there that deals with sexual orientation or gender identity, especially for young readers.

“I think it is important for libraries, no matter what kind, to have a wide variety of material available for their customers. Libraries, even school libraries, serve a wide variety of students with different backgrounds,” said Coyl. “A student may question their sexual orientation or gender identity, or may have parents of the same gender. They come to the library looking for things about them or about their life and that reflect their experiences.”

For more information about GLBT Book Month, visit http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/ glbt-book-month.

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Lesbian Berkeley city manager resigns

More than three years after Christine Daniel became the first lesbian and the first woman hired as Berkeley’s city manager, she is stepping down to take a job with the city of Oakland.

In a letter dated June 2 Daniel informed Berkeley officials that she would resign effective July 24.

She will be working in the administration of Oakland’s new mayor, Libby Schaaf, as an assistant city administrator.

“It has been an honor to have served as your city manager for the last three and one-half years, and to have spent 15 years of my professional career with this very special community,” wrote Daniel, who was first hired by the Berkeley City Attorney’s office.

Daniel left to work for the city attorney of Fremont and then returned to Berkeley to work for Phil Kamlarz, the city’s longtime city manager who retired in the fall of 2011. Having been groomed for the job, Daniel was named to replace Kamlarz that October.

“Berkeley is filled with creative, passionate people who are not afraid to try something new or to challenge conventional wisdom, while at the same time remaining committed to preserving the unique character of this wonderful place,” wrote Daniel. “It has been a pleasure to work with so many.”

In an email to the B.A.R. announcing the news, gay Berkeley City Councilman Kriss Worthington’s office said it “was sad to report” Daniel’s decision to step down but was heartened “that she will continue her service in the East Bay.”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 lesbian San Mateo harbor board member’s resigning as president.

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6 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

<< Community News

t Facebook protest draws crowd

by David-Elijah Nahmod

A

bout 100 people representing a diverse cross section of the LGBT community and allies gathered in front of Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park June 1 to protest the social media company’s real names policy, which has caused accounts of some drag queens and others to be frozen.

At issue is the company’s policy of using legal names instead of stage names or other names on Facebook pages. Last fall, a group of drag and trans community members, along with gay San Francisco Supervisor David Campos, met with Facebook officials but a formal agreement was not reached. The social media company did restore some drag queens’ pages that it had removed.

Since then, however, drag queens and transgender people report being locked out of their Facebook pages for not using their legal or birth names. Facebook did announce 56 gender identity options last year, but anyone can still report alleged “fake” names with the click of a button.

It’s this fake name reporting option that has caused the greatest controversy. Many drag and trans community members have said that Facebook is trying to prevent them from identifying as their authentic selves.

“Facebook’s fake name reporting option punishes identity and not behavior,” Sister Roma of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence told the Bay Area Reporter. “Users on Facebook are using this reporting option as a tool to maliciously target and report members of the LGBT community and others who they find objectionable for whatever reason.”

For some, not using their birth names can be a matter of personal safety. For others, it cuts to their identity.

“I was told that my name wasn’t real,” Sadaisha Shimmers, a 31-yearold transgender woman, told the B.A.R. at the protest.

<<

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News Briefs

From page 3

ous youth agencies, libraries, and churches that offer risk prevention information in an interactive format of games and prizes.

It is open to youth 20 and younger. Admission is $25 per person.

This year’s theme is “Fame Not Shame – A Night To Be A Celeb.”

About 400 youth are expected to attend, as well as about 100 adult supporters either chaperoning inside the event or participating in a Pride festival outside the prom. The adults used to serve as a receiving line to shield the youth from anti-gay protesters but that has since turned into a welcoming festival, complete with music from the Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band and people cheering as the young people enter the prom.

Over the years, the prom has seen changes, including an increase in straight youth attending in support of their LGBTQ friends.

Major sponsors include Kaiser Permanente and Kohl’s. The prom is produced by the Lambda Youth Project, a program of Project Eden, Horizon Services Inc. For tickets and more information, visit www.gayprom.org.

Divorce options workshop

If the love is gone and you’re a same-sex couple looking to split up, an upcoming workshop may help.

Called Divorce Options, the session takes place Saturday, June 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, 3200 California Street. The cost is $35 to $45 per person.

Advocates noted that filing for divorce by the end of June is a way to

Jane Philomen Cleland

Sister Roma of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, right, facilitated speakers outside Facebook’s headquarters in Menlo Park to explain the ways in which Facebook’s real names policy is harmful to some community members.

Shimmers said that she was cut off from friends and political organizations she supports when her Facebook account was frozen.

“When Facebook chooses to make you go back to a given name it can make your family aware of your choices before you have chosen to include them in your transition,” she said.

The real names policy has also affected sex workers.

“My family may not want to have a dominatrix in the family tree, and that’s OK,” said Beth Bicoastal, speaking at the rally on behalf of the leather and sex worker communities.

Two busloads of people rode down to Menlo Park from the Market Street Safeway parking lot at 10 a.m. on June 1. The buses were sponsored by Ello, another social networking site. The protest was organized by Sister Roma and drag artist Lil Miss Hot Mess. Facebook security allowed the buses to park inside the Facebook parking lot, but building security and Menlo Park police requested that the protest take place just outside Facebook’s

main entrance. The protest proceeded peacefully, with the police and the protesters addressing each other respectfully.

Attendees included drag performers Bebe Sweetbriar, Mutha Chucka, and Campos.

“We want actions, not words,” Campos said as he addressed the crowd. “We are tired of hearing the right words and nothing happens.”

Campos and Sister Roma now claim that Facebook went back on its word to lift the real names policy.

Sister Roma told the crowd that they were “beautiful,” and that they were representing the rights of millions to self-identify.

“Facebook needs to immediately end the fake names reporting option,” Roma said. “They are condoning bullying. It’s targeted and malicious.”

As Roma spoke, many protesters gave a “thumbs down” – in contrast to the thumbs up Facebook like symbol – to the rainbow flag colors that graced the Facebook sign for Pride Month.

give the couple the option to have the split finalized effective in 2015 or 2016, depending on what may help their taxes, as well as the psychological lift of starting the new year with a “clean slate.” Filing and serving a divorce petition does not have to be a dreadful process, advocates noted. The divorce education events are offered monthly at JCC and sponsored by Collaborative Practice San Francisco.

For more information, visit w w w. c p - s f . co m / re s o u rce s / divorce-options-workshop.

cratic Party will hold a workshop for Democrats considering a candidacy for public office Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fremont Unified District Teachers Association offices, 39350 Civic Center Drive, in Fremont.

Current and former elected officials, Democratic Party officers, and campaign consultants will be on hand to discuss issues one needs to consider when making the decision to run, how campaigns work, and legal requirements.

The workshop is free and open to all Democrats. A light breakfast is included. Donations will be accepted. For more information or to RSVP, contact info@acdems.org or (510) 873-0222.

Planning dept. offers mobile workshop

For people considering a home remodeling project or seeking information about seismic retrofits, Supervisor Scott Wiener, the San Francisco Planning Department, and the Department of Building Inspection will hold the first District 8 Mobile Workshop Saturday, June 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Eureka Valley Recreation Center’s auditorium, 100 Collingwood Street.

People will be on hand to answer questions about the recent in-law unit and accessory dwelling unit legislation. After brief remarks from Wiener and a short presentation from planning and building inspection staff, there will be time for questions and pre-scheduled 15-minute appointments with staff.

To register, visit http://D8MobileWorkshop.eventbrite.com. To schedule an appointment, email planningnews@sfgov.org or call (415) 575-9157 and specify your question or topic.

Candidate training offered in Fremont

The Alameda County Demo-

See page 8 >>

Peninsula MCC celebrates 10 years

Peninsula Metropolitan Community Church will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a party Saturday, June 6 from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Beresford Community Center, 2720 Alameda de las Pulgas in San Mateo.

The party’s theme is “Hooray for Hollywood,” and guests are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite movie star or film character.

The evening includes a no-host reception, dinner and program, and dancing and entertainment. There will also be a raffle.

Tickets are $60 for the dinner and dance, or $20 for the dance only. For more information, see the link at http://peninsulamcc. org/2014anniversary.pdf. For more information about Peninsula MCC, visit www.peninsulamcc.org.

See page 10 >>

t

Obituaries>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 7

James Armstrong, photographer of early gay life, dies

James Armstrong

James Armstrong’s Castro Village photo appeared in the August 1974 issue of After Dark magazine.

by Cynthia Laird

J

ames Mitchell Armstrong Jr., a gay man who spent years photographing early gay life in San Francisco’s Castro district and elsewhere, died April 2. He was 90.

Mr. Armstrong died at Kaiser Hospital in Richmond, said Virginia Buckner, the executor of his estate

and longtime friend. She added that the cause of death was choking on phlegm, but that he had been in poor health for a number of years, suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s, and had been living at a skilled nursing facility before entering the hospital.

“I visited him every week, but I did not expect it was going to come that

way,” Buckner, a longtime friend, said of Mr. Armstrong’s passing.

Mr. Armstrong was known for capturing the emerging spirit and “utter joy” of San Francisco’s gay community in the 1970s, said Bill Lipsky, a longtime resident.

“His images of nightlife in the bars and clubs, events, the performing arts, and ‘the boys on the street’ were found in magazines on gay men’s coffee tables everywhere, sharing what became known as the Castro’s ‘Golden Age’ with the country and the world,” Lipsky wrote in a statement that he provided to the Bay Area Reporter.

From the early 1970s until the mid-1980s, Mr. Armstrong was a black and white photographer for the San Francisco Ballet and the West Coast theater critic, travel editor, photographer, and reporter for After Dark, then a nationally distributed entertainment magazine.

Lipsky said that Mr. Armstrong also worked with other dance and theater companies, did fashion and portrait photography, and contributed pictures and articles to Dance magazine.

Former East Bay AIDS executive John Camp dies

by Cynthia Laird

was “groundbreaking,” in part because of the relaohn Camp, who served tive lack of services at the as executive director of time compared with San the Diablo Valley AIDS Francisco.

Center and the AIDS “He took the job, rolled Community Network in up his sleeves, and worked Contra Costa County, very hard,” Moran said. died May 26 at Maitri Another longtime Hospice in San Francisco. friend and colleague, He was 67.

Sherie Koshover, said that John Camp Mr. Camp had lived Mr. Camp was “selfless.” with HIV for many years “In a world of self-inand died of complications from it, dulgence and self-centeredness, he his friends said. stands out as one who was selfless,” Mr. Camp, a gay man, was adKoshover said. mired for his concern for others, his She added that Mr. Camp, who close friend Jamie Moran told the she met when they both worked at Bay Area Reporter. the Jewish Home for the Aged in “He had a very strong degree the mid-1970s, also served as execuof compassion for people and cirtive director of Continuum, a day cumstances, a very strong degree program in San Francisco for those of kindness, and empathy,” Moran, living with HIV/AIDS that closed who knew Mr. Camp for 40 years, several years ago. said. “He was very dedicated.”

Mr. Camp used these positions to Mr. Camp spent his professional bring much needed services to the life in the aging, developmentally community with the same passion disabled, and HIV/AIDS fields. he pursued all his work, developing He started his career working programs, raising money, and enwith seniors, then moved to agenhancing the lives of clients, friends cies serving the developmentally said. His creativity inspired others disabled. In the early days of HIV/ in program development and in AIDS he provided leadership and unusual and remarkable fundraistraining for the Contra Costa health ing events. department. Later on, Mr. Camp The Diablo Valley AIDS Center was instrumental in the formation ceased operating in 2006, after Mr. of services for people with HIV and Camp left, and its programs were AIDS in Contra Costa County as merged with other entities, includthe executive director of both the ing the Food Bank of Contra Costa Diablo Valley AIDS Center and the and Solano counties.

AIDS Community Network.

Mr. Camp, who retired in 2005, Moran said that Mr. Camp’s also volunteered extensively. He HIV/AIDS work in the East Bay served on the board of directors of

J

Obituaries >> Dwayne Patrick Calizo March 15, 1963 – May 17, 2015 Dwayne Patrick Calizo (also known as Boobie, Kekoa, and Mama) was the truest of bohemians. A devotee to the transcendent power of art, activism, teaching, friendship, family, the underdog, irreverence, diversity, laughter, forgiveness and above all, love.

He had a voice unlike any of us had ever heard, and an unrelenting belief that everyone could sing. Everyone had a voice that needed to be heard. As a child in Hawaii all the neighborhood kids would gather outside his bathroom shouting requests as he sang in the shower. They called the game “Radio”;

Dwayne took a lot of showers. He died May 17, 2015 surrounded by love, family, friends, and singing.

Dwayne created The Space in Los Angeles, a community art and music venue.

He founded Mama Calizo’s Voice Factory in San Francisco, dedicated to artists who are queer, of color, trans and/or living with HIV/AIDS. Dwayne was a co-founder of the Experimental Performance Institute, the world’s first BA, MA and MFA program in queer and activist performance.

He also was a hospice nurse during the early days of the AIDS crisis, helping others pass with dignity and grace.

His life was a beautifully composed song, filled with countless verses of relationships with family and friends.

A celebration of Dwayne’s life will occur on July 10. Please visit http://www. youcaring.com/memorialfordwayne for details.

the Contra Costa Association of Retarded Citizens and Coming Home Hospice of San Francisco as well as connected personally through service with the clients of Project Open Hand, Visiting Nurses and Hospice of San Francisco and the Special Olympics. He received many awards for his life’s work, too numerous to mention; all in recognition of his

“He seemed to photograph everyone and everything, shaping the city’s arts and culture, from Herb Caen to Flo Allan from Charles Pierce to William Ball and Kurt Herbert Adler from Beach Blanket Babylon to the Old Spaghetti Factory’s famed ‘Macaroni Show,’” Lipsky wrote.

Glenne McElhinney, a lesbian who is a California oral historian and filmmaker, said she met Mr. Armstrong in the last year of his life, after discovering some photos he’d taken of ballet dancers lost to AIDS. “James Armstrong captured a time and place in San Francisco that was fun, frolicking, and historically significant,” McElhinney said. “His friendships with dancers and entertainers photographically documented a time before HIV/AIDS wiped many See page 10 >>

Courtesy Virginia Buckner, executor of Armstrong estate

James Armstrong in an undated photo in New York, likely after World War II.

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<< Sports

t Report: No surprise, homophobia rife in sports world 8 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

by Roger Brigham

A

s the founders of the LGBT Sports Coalition get ready for the group’s annual summit in Portland this month, they are taking a bit of time to digest the results of a recent international survey on homophobia and biphobia in sports and consider how much is left to do to achieve their stated goal of eliminating such things in sports by next year.

And the study showed that the biggest obstacle left to clear is the one most sports activists thought it was: fear itself.

A report on the online study is available at www.outonthefields. com. The data collected from English-speaking countries, primarily Australia (3,006 responses), the United States (2,064), the United Kingdom (1,796), Canada (1,123), New Zealand (631), and Ireland (501) indicate that more than 80 percent of gay male youth athletes did not disclose their orientation to teammates or coaches, that lesbians were slightly more likely to disclose their orientation, and that fears of bullying and lack of acceptance were the primary reason athletes stayed closeted.

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The small sample size indicated that the U.S. was one of the least gay-friendly countries for athletes.

“I think we in the U.S. are low in the rankings due to the influence of religion as a constant battleground for our work,” said Helen Carroll, sports project director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights. “I do think, since we are developing some strategies to make that better, we may see some improvements along those lines. Religion is certainly not as influential in the other countries.”

Carroll added that she has high hope for the coalition’s work.

“I believe when we assess what has been accomplished by the coalition in 2016, we will all be amazed,” she said. “We’ll see that homophobia/biphobia/transphobia are well on their way out.”

Others said they didn’t need the study to know that homophobia is rife in sports.

“I think the study tells us our work is indeed necessary, but we didn’t need the study to tell us that,” said longtime activist and professor Pat Griffin. “We have a lot of work to do at all levels of sports, both men’s and women’s.

“The study does not inform us on achievability, but I believe looking at the progress we have made and the shifts in the larger culture on LGBT issues, our goals are definitely achievable,” Griffin said. “Maybe not by 2016, but we have certainly

<<

Camp

From page 7

outstanding leadership and selfless contributions to others.

“He was extraordinarily caring of people he perceived to be disadvantaged or vulnerable,” Koshover said.

Mr. Camp, who was born October 29, 1947, dedicated himself thoroughly to what he valued and believed. This passion started early in life, and solidified while volunteering with VISTA, a national service program to fight poverty, serving low-income developmentally disabled adults in North Carolina during the civil rights movement in the 1960s. This experience led him to Friends World College (now Long Island University Global), where he pursued a degree in psychology and social services while living and working in India, Africa and Europe.

Mr. Camp later earned a master’s in rehabilitative administration from the University of San Francisco.

Moran said that Mr. Camp’s hobbies included making exquisitely crafted, creative and individually

<<

Facebook

From page 6

Alex U. Inn, a member of the drag king performance group Mama’s Boyz, said they also experienced being locked out of their Facebook account.

“One day I logged on and I was gone,” Inn, who prefers gender-neutral pronouns, said. “The black community is targeted because our names don’t represent what American names are supposed to sound like.”

Samuel White Swan Perkins, a representative from the Native

<<

LGBT senior issues

From page 1

Gay District 8 Supervisor Scott Wiener, who worked with gay District 9 Supervisor David Campos and bisexual former District 5 Supervisor Christina Olague to push for the task force’s creation in 2013, told the Bay Area Reporter this week, “I think we have made good progress” on implementing the

built momentum and with the numerous projects initiated by coalition members and others involved in LGBT sports advocacy, we will succeed and more quickly than we could have imagined 10 years ago.”

Although the study paints a grim portrait of gay and lesbian athletes’ fears about coming out – that they will be rejected, harassed and bullied – more and more anecdotal evidence in recent years shows that athletes who do come out more often than not find support and acceptance, not rejection and dejection. Athletes who train together and compete together at all ages tend to form “family” ties, which are

often stronger and even more supportive than traditional biological families.

“The study shows that homophobic language and actions are still prevalent in sports, but it did not address how LGB athletes are accepted in sports or what happens after they come out,” said Cyd Zeigler of Outsports.com. “As we know from example after example, athletes behave one way when they don’t realize an LGB athlete is in earshot, and when a teammate comes out they embrace them. Our role continues to be first to reduce the amount of anti-LGB language that is in sports; and secondly and most importantly, to empower LGB athletes to come out to their teammates, friends, coaches and the public. That is the only way to continue the transformation in sports.”

The survey questions covered only questions regarding sexual orientation, not gender identity or expression, and therefore did not cover discrimination against transgender athletes.

The coalition will meet June 10-11 in advance of the larger summit of sports leaders June 11-13.

Summit workshop topics include such things as anti-bullying training for youth athletes; how to handle issues after coming out as a coach or athlete to do the most collective good; organizing safe training spaces for athletes; and building inclusive sports programs.t

centered thank you cards. A simple birthday dinner in his honor evoked a two-page thank you; attentive to even the smallest details, with genuine and effusive appreciation.

Moran said that Mr. Camp had a work table in his Inner Richmond home where he made the cards.

Mr. Camp also loved the disco era and was an avid dancer, Moran said.

Mr. Camp had long-lasting friendships in all walks of life; this included his large extended family, many of whom, like him, grew up and remained in the Bay Area. John created amazing energy in friendships, being a faithful and reliable friend who cared about people deeply. He was considered the favorite cousin in his very large family and brought such warmth, connection and strong ties to many of his cousins’ children. As much as people were drawn to Mr. Camp, he was pulled to his nephew, Christopher. Chris was the light of Mr. Camp’s life. Mr. Camp’s favorite time was undoubtedly that which he spent with Chris; being together brought John great joy. Mr. Camp had a lifelong connection, sympatico, and very close relationship with his

sister, Marianne. To Mr. Camp, Marianne was not only a sister, but a best friend and constant companion. Mr. Camp, with, Marianne, her partner Marta and Christopher, had a deep family bond of love.

Friends said that in the last year, Mr. Camp’s HIV illness became worse, but that he did not talk about the toll it took on him. He was particularly appreciative of Dr. David Jull-Patterson, Ph.D., his psychologist, and Dr. Mark Higgins, his physician. Friends said that Mr. Camp was also thankful to be cared for exquisitely during two stays with Maitri Hospice.

Koshover, who’s Jewish, said that Mr. Camp, who was Catholic, embodied the Jewish covenant referred to as “Repairing the World.”

“He truly left the world a better place, and he did it while struggling with his own health issues,” she said.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center, 3200 California Street in San Francisco.

Mr. Camp requested that in lieu of flowers, people make a donation to their favorite charity.t

American community, expressed these same sentiments.

Facebook spokesman Andrew Souvall declined to comment specifically on the protest but provided a link to Facebook’s safety page.

Another Facebook executive said that U.S. users can now act quickly if their pages are reported.

“We now provide people in the U.S. access to their account while they verify or update their name,” said a June 1 posting from Justin Osofsky, Faceboook’s vice president of global operations. “We also offer the option to act immediately or within seven days.”

Osofsky wrote that Facebook has also expanded the types of documentation they will accept for name verification, which can now include mail, a library card or a magazine subscription.

“We clarified language throughout our site to make it clear that when we say authentic name, it does not necessarily need to be a legal name,” Osofsky wrote.

The protesters aren’t buying it and vowed to continue the fight.

“We are all human beings and we all have the right to be called whatever we want,” said Shimmers.t

various policy proposals.

According to a report generated this month by the city’s Department of Aging and Adult Services, identifiable steps have been taken to begin addressing all but one of the LGBT aging issues the task force identified, such as social support, health services, legal assistance, and access to affordable housing.

“I think we have done a good bit of work in just a short period

of time,” DAAS Executive Director Anne Hinton told the B.A.R. “Especially when you realize the time from when the strategic plan came out to today and anything that needed money had to go to the mayor and the board.”

One of the bigger achievements occurred in April, when the city enacted first-of-its-kind legislation establish-

Courtesy Helen Carroll’s Facebook page

NCLR sports project director Helen Carroll, who, as she has been getting ready for the LGBT Sports Summit, suffered a broken arm in a fall on slick tile.

See page 9 >>

t <<

Community News>>

LGBT senior issues

Housing isn’t the only concern that requires further attention from the

city, contend LGBT senior advocates.

As budget negotiations begin at City Hall over the 2015-2016 fiscal year, which begins July 1, Openhouse is working with the Shanti Project and Wiener’s office to secure roughly $320,000 for an LGBT senior peer counseling and support program that would be focused on the isolation many older adults face, whether due to the loss of loved ones and friends or ostracism by their natural families.

The mayor this week proposed spending $200,000 on an education and awareness campaign about how dementia and Alzheimer’s impacts the LGBT community. As the B.A.R. noted in March, by 2020 approximately 3,213 LGBT seniors in San Francisco are expected to be living with Alzheimer’s, with an additional 2,142 LGBT seniors aged 65 and older predicted to be suffering from some form of dementia.

“There is a wave of folks coming down the road who will be confronting this terrible disease, and we want to make sure we are capable of dealing with it,” said Kilbourn.

In terms of policy, Wiener continues to work on legislation that would require city departments to collect LGBT demographic data.

Its introduction has been repeatedly delayed as city leaders work out legal and implementation issues.

“It is one of those where we want to get it right,” said Wiener. “We are on a good path now and will get it done in the near future. It could be limited to seniors but now we are considering broadening it out to be for all human service programs.”

After holding a meeting last month with LGBT senior advocates, DAAS officials, and the city attorney’s office, Wiener is looking at introducing legislation that would mirror a bill authored by Assemblyman David Chiu (D-San Francisco).

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Disparities Reduction Act, AB 959, would require a number of state agencies to start collecting demographic data on gender identity and sexual orientation. It passed out of the Assembly Monday, June 1 and will now be heard by the state Senate.

Governor Jerry Brown in 2013 vetoed a similar bill, partly due to the cost associated with having to upgrade state forms and computer systems. This year Equality California, the statewide LGBT advocacy organization, has made Chiu’s legislation its top priority.

San Francisco’s department on aging is already asking users of its meal services and other programs it runs about their sexual orientation and gender identity, according to DAAS Deputy Director Shireen McSpadden.

And as of June the Adult Protective Services system, which is provided by a statewide vendor, implemented gender status/sexual orientation questions that the city is now collecting.

It is one part of the multi-pronged approach underway in San Francisco to address the needs of LGBT seniors.

“I think, absolutely, the report and work the task force did has made changes in our senior community,” said Hinton. “It is great to be in meetings and when people say to me, ‘What are we doing?’ I can point to the recommendations. The mayor’s budget staff and the supervisors are asking, ‘Where are you on this?’ It has had a great deal of visibility.”t

sulted in a settlement with the San Francisco-based Providian Financial Corporation in 2000, in which the credit card issuer was ordered to cease unfair practices and pay consumers more than $300 million.

Under the settlement with the district attorney’s office and the Office of the Controller of the Currency, Providian, which was eventually acquired by Washington Mutual, was also ordered to pay $5.5 million to the city.

The DA’s office found that Providian had “engaged in a pattern of misconduct in which it misled and

deceived consumers,” according to prosecutors’ summary of the case.

“We took nothing in attorneys’ fees” on the Providian case, Cravett said. “ ... We really wanted to get the money back to the folks it was unlawfully taken from.”

Gascón recently had high praise for Cravett. He said she has an “incredible legal mind” and is able to “break down complex legal questions” in common sense terms.

If Cravett were to leave the DA’s office, she could make “five to six times” what his agency pays her, he said. Cravett’s annual income is $206,752.t

From page 8

ing a “bill of rights” for LGBT seniors living in long-term care facilities.

Hinton said she believes its passage “is a huge, huge thing. It is not about money, it is about good public policy.”

The city’s funding spigots, though, have been flowing for LGBT senior resources. Several city departments over the last year awarded contracts to Openhouse, a nonprofit agency that focuses on LGBT seniors. And for the first time, DAAS designated Openhouse as an aging and disabilities resource center and awarded it $80,000 to provide case management services in the current fiscal year.

Through a $220,000 two-year grant from the Mayor’s Office of Housing, which it is splitting with the LGBT Community Center, Openhouse is also counseling LGBT seniors on how to access affordable housing opportunities in the city. It broke ground this spring on its own long delayed project to build 110 units of affordable housing as part of the 55 Laguna in-fill development.

Openhouse also won a $75,000 contract from the Department of Human Resources to develop “cultural humility” (a new definition for cultural competency) training to educate those working on aging issues specifically about LGBT seniors.

“I think that there has been a lot of progress to implement those recommendations,” said Openhouse Executive Director Seth Kilbourn, who did not serve on the task force but whose agency had several representatives appointed as members. “I think the task force should be quite pleased for its work. It did a great job and I think the recommendations are moving forward.”

The city’s elected leaders and the heads of the various departments and agencies, said Kilbourn, “took very seriously, and do take very seriously, those very carefully researched and well thought out recommendations. The committee deserves a lot of credit for doing a thorough job and zeroing in on potential things the LGBT senior community needs.”

The impact of that work, said Kilbourn, has been twofold.

“It certainly enabled Openhouse to expand our work,” he said. “And it made the city more aware of LGBT seniors.”

Ambrunn largely credited Wiener for taking the lead over the last year to implement the task force’s report.

“I think that Scott Wiener has done an amazing service to our community by focusing on these issues,” he said. “If it weren’t for Scott nothing would have happened.”

Housing a key concern

One of the more pressing needs for the city’s LGBT seniors is housing assistance, whether it is support to age in place in their current homes or access to affordable housing units.

In fact, the bulk of the LGBT Aging Policy Task Force’s recommendations dealt with ideas for how the city could lessen the impact of skyrocketing housing costs for LGBT seniors.

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Prosecutor

From page 1

olating state law, including by making false statements to customers.

Prosecutors’ claims include Uber “makes untrue or misleading representations” about the quality of its drivers’ background checks.

Through the suit, prosecutors want the company to pay restitution to consumers and civil penalties, among other results.

Uber didn’t respond to a request for comment.

One of Cravett’s biggest cases re-

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 9

Jane Philomen Cleland

DAAS Executive Director Anne Hinton sits in her office.

Its suggestions ran the gamut from building more affordable housing for LGBT seniors and increasing eviction protections for them to providing rental and homeowner assistance and legal services to help them maintain their housing.

The AIDS Housing Alliance/ San Francisco this year received $600,000 from the city to provide housing assistance to 61 seniors living with HIV. And later this month a city-funded LGBT homeless shelter, something the LGBT aging panel supported in its report, will open after years of bureaucratic delays.

The shelter’s 24 beds, which will be open to anyone over the age of 18, will be named for Jazzie Collins, a transgender woman who co-chaired the aging task force and served on its housing subcommittee. Collins died in July 2013 at the age of 54 in the midst of working on the aging report.

Advocates, however, continue to call on the city to do more in terms of housing help for LGBT seniors.

“I’m disappointed that none of the housing recommendations have been taken up by the supervisors,” said Tommi Avicolli Mecca, who identifies as queer and was the task force member who chaired the housing work group. “Why hasn’t the city looked into ways to further protect seniors from evictions or how to provide more affordable housing for LGBT seniors, in addition to the 110 units that will be at 55 Laguna. Those are things we desperately need.”

He added, “In terms of the housing recommendations, the Board of Supervisors gets an F.” Ambrunn agreed that the city isn’t doing enough on housing for LGBT seniors.

“Tommi rightly points out housing has not been moved on in the same way,” said Ambrunn. “Those were very big systemic issues that couldn’t be resolved easily or quickly. So it is not surprising to me there is still more work to be done on housing issues.”

Wiener concurred that the city has a “massive unmet need for affordable housing” for all residents, not just LGBT seniors. He pointed to the ongoing debate over Mayor Ed Lee’s $250 million affordable housing bond he has proposed for the fall ballot as one of the approaches city leaders are considering.

More work to do

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Armstrong

From page 7

of them away physically but not from Armstrong’s evocative images.”

In 1986, Mr. Armstrong became a freelance travel writer and photographer. For the next 20 years, his photographs, principally of flowers, appeared in best-selling calendars and date books. He also began making 35mm slide photographs of the distorted reflections of ordinary household objects, reflected in large sheets of mirrored acetate film, which he called Camera paintings. When the film stopped being manufactured in 1993, a whole field of creativity disappeared, but the photographs Mr. Armstrong made survive, Lipsky wrote.

Born in Alexandra, Louisiana on January 11, 1925, Mr. Armstrong’s family moved to California in 1929.

After graduating from Salinas Junior College, he was drafted. During World War II, he served three years in the Army in Germany, from 1945 until 1949, where he was a scriptwriter for the Armed Forces Network, based in Frankfurt, writing

<<

Doubtfire arson

From page 2

was ablaze, but he eventually was able to extinguish the flames. His garage door was also burned during the incident. Ousterhout, who was home alone at the time of the fire, wasn’t injured.

In January, Welch pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder count, along with charges of burning an inhabited dwelling, possession of an incendiary device, trespassing, buying or receiving stolen property, making criminal threats, annoying phone calls, and burglary.

After the preliminary hearing, Superior Court Judge Brendan Conroy ruled there was enough evidence for her to stand trial on all but the criminal threats and annoying phone calls counts. Assistant

<<

News Briefs

From page 6

Book launch for LGBT anthology

Author Adrian Brooks has announced that the launch for his new LGBT anthology, The Right Side of History (Cleis Press), will take place Thursday, June 11 at 7 p.m. at Books Inc., 2275 Market Street in San Francisco.

The event will feature three read-

radio dramas and documentaries, announcing, news reading, directing, and acting. He then worked for four years as a civilian employee of the Occupation.

After he returned to the United States, Mr. Armstrong attended UC Berkeley, then took what he called “a dreary and frustrating civil service job,” Lipsky wrote.

Buckner said that she met Mr. Armstrong when the two appeared in a production of Measure for Measure at UC Berkeley.

Mr. Armstrong also wrote, produced, and acted in a series of radio dramas, mostly spoofs of different types of old movies. Hoping to pursue a full-time career in script writing, he moved to Hollywood in 1966, but, without much success, returned to San Francisco in 1970.

Although Mr. Armstrong has no known surviving relatives, he left behind a large extended family of loving friends and aficionados. His many beautifully framed dance photographs are being donated to the San Francisco Museum of Performance and Design, to be treasured by all lovers of grace and art.t District Attorney Andrew Clark had already dropped a burglary charge.

Hilton had repeatedly said the case against Welch was based on “circumstantial” evidence. No one had witnessed Welch at the house around the time of the fires, and there was no surveillance video showing her there, court testimony indicated.

After the B.A.R. interviewed Welch, she had wanted to replace Hilton, who had represented her since her arraignment. Hilton had declined to facilitate an interview with Welch, but through her mother, Jeanette McSwain, Welch had approached the paper.

The relationship between Hilton and Welch appeared to deteriorate, with Hilton at one point telling a B.A.R. reporter, “It’s your fault. ... I don’t have anything to say to you.”t ers who contributed to the book: Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, who was at Stonewall and was recently honored at the White House LGBTQ Leaders of Color Summit with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades of activism serving the transgender community; LGBT historian and curator Paul Gabriel; and Max Wolf Valerio, author of The Testosterone Files, which charts his journey from being a feminist lesbian to a heterosexual man.t

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Legal Notices>> FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036433500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CHIROPRACTIC FOR HUMANITY, 126 WAVERLY PL., SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed WARREN ZHAO. 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 04/16/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036463800

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GRIEF COUNSELING, 1400 GEARY BLVD #1402, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed BETTY J. CARMACK. 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 05/04/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036457900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ARTMAR HOTEL, 433 ELLIS ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed AKSHAY AMIN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/28/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/30/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036439400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GOLD BAY APP, 359 11TH AVE #3, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed FREDERICO SILVA RESENDE COUTRIM. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/20/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/20/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036437600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CITY SLICKERZ; CITY SLICKERS, 1151 WEBSTER ST #3, SAN FRANCICO, CA 94115.

This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed JAMAR M. COLBERT. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/17/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/17/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036465000

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SALON DE BAR, 322 HAYES ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed JENNIFER DE BAR. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/04/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/04/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036466900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE OF SAN FRANCISCO, 607 MARKET ST, 3RD FLOOR, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed UOYE LLT, 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 05/05/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036437500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DIVANO HOME, 3251 20TH AVE #209, SAN FRANCISCO, C A 94132. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed DIVANO HOME INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/17/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/17/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036468200

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: IN TICKETING, 660 MARKET ST, FLOOR4, 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 08/26/14.

The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/06/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036435700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 60 FOOT FARM, 1746 33RD AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by co-partners, and is signed JEFFREY G. FOSTER & RICHARD P. CABLER. 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 04/17/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036471400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOBSON’S CHOICE BAR, 1601 HAIGHT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed PINE & DAVIS, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/07/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/07/15.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINSTER ESTATE OF JUANITA TENORIO IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO: FILE PES-15-298805

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Juanita Tenorio aka Juanita Cole Tenorio. A Petition for Probate has been filed by Anthony G. Tenorio in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. The Petition for Probate requests that Anthony G. Tenorio be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: June 22, 2015, 9:00am, Dept., Probate, Rm. 204, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the latter of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined by section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: Melvin Neal, 633 West 5th Street, Suite 2800, Los Angeles, CA 90071; Ph. (213) 683-5331.

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 NOTICE OF HEARING – DECEDENT’S ESTATE OR TRUST: DONNA MARIE MADISON-BELL, PETITIONER, ESTATE OF SAMMY LEE BELL, DECEDENT, SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO: FILE PES-15-298702

This notice is required by law. This notice does not require you to appear in court, but you may attend the hearing if you wish. Notice is given that Donna Marie Madison-Bell has filed Amended Petition for Probate. You may refer to the filed documents for more information (Some documents filed with the court are confidential.)

A HEARING on the matter will be held as follows: June 8, 2015, 9:00 a.m. Room 204 in Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. Attorney for petitioner: Hilary Hedemark (SBN255882), Law Offices of Hilary Hedemark, 601 Van Ness Ave., Ste 2056, San Francisco, CA 94102; (415) 692-1503

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015

USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-034676200 The following persons have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name known as: HOBSON’S CHOICE BAR, 1601 HAIGHT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business was conducted by a limited liability company and signed by GOOD TIME LAST NIGHT LLC. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/25/12.

MAY 14, 21, 28, JUNE 04, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036487100

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: VICTOR’S SNACK SHOP, 2380 SAN BRUNO AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed VICTOR RODRIGUEZ. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/17/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/18/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036488000

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MANI-PEDI SPA, 1545 POLK ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed QUYNH LAU. 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 05/18/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036488600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MUZZAMMAL K. QURESHI DBA QURESHI TRANSIT, 118 DECATUR COURT, HERCULES, CA 94547. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed MUZZAMMAL K. QURESHI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/01/2014. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/18/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036481700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BINGHAM RENTALS, 682 SHOTWELL ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed EDWARD M. BINGHAM. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/14/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/14/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036479500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: GREEN CONSTRUCTION BUILDER CORP, 176 CAPISTRANO AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112.

This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed LAWRENCE SITU. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/18/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/13/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036477600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: EAST BAY SIGN CO, 870 HARRISON, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed IMAGEWORKS MANUFACTURING INC. (IL). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/12/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/12/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015

City and County of San Francisco Outreach Advertising June 2015 Stay Connected To the City through SF311

The SF311 Customer Service Center is the single stop for residents to get information on government services and report problems to the City and County of San Francisco. And now, we have even more ways for you to stay connected to the City with our SF311 App and SF311 Explorer website.

The SF311 App lets you get information on City services and submit service requests onthe-go right from your smartphone. You can track your service requests through the app or through our new website, SF311 Explorer.

SF311 Explorer not only lets you check the status of your own requests, it enables you to see what issues are being reported throughout all of San Francisco and what the City is doing to resolve them.

Download the SF311 App from your smartphone’s app store and visit the SF311 Explorer at explore311.sfgov.org today!

Port of San Francisco

Port of San Francisco announces Contract #2774, Pier 94 High Mast Lighting Project. Located at Pier 94, the scope of work will consist of removing two (2) 100-foot high lights and installing two (2) 80-foot high modern lights. Bidders may either be Class A or Class C-10 licensed, and only San Francisco certified Micro-LBE contractors are eligible to bid on this Set-aside contract. Bid discounts, LBE goals, Local Hire, & Partnering do not apply. Pre-bid meeting: 5/26/15, 10:30 AM at the Contractor Assistance Center located at 5 Thomas Mellon Circle in San Francisco. Bids Due: 6/30/15, 10:30AM, Pier 1. For questions contact Arnel Prestosa, (415) 274-0627. Information located on www.sfport.com and www. sfgov.org/oca.

Department of Elections

Voter Services Are Now Available in Filipino! SF Ballots Are Changing!

The Department of Elections now offers telephone and in-person assistance in Filipino.

Within the month, the Department will also offer voter information and materials in Filipino on sfelections.org and in printed format.

Beginning with the November 3, 2015, election, there will be three bilingual versions of the ballot: English + Chinese, English + Spanish, and English + Filipino.

Ballots in English and each certified language will be available by mail, at the City Hall Voting Center, and at all polling places. The Department of Elections encourages voters who wish to receive ballots in Chinese, Spanish, or Filipino to provide that information in advance at sfelections.org/language.

For more information about ballot format changes and voter services in Filipino, visit sfelections.org or call the Department at (415) 554-4375.

Board of Supervisors Regularly Scheduled Board Meetings June 2015

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC –Tuesdays, 2:00pm, City Hall Chamber, Room 250.

• June 2 • June 9 • June 16

• June 23

The City and County of San Francisco encourage public outreach. Articles are translated into several languages to provide better public access. The newspaper makes every effort to translate the articles of general interest correctly. No liability is assumed by the City and County of San Francisco or the newspapers for errors and omissions

▼

Read more online at www.ebar.com

Legal Notices>> ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO, 400 MC ALLISTER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102 FILE CNC-15-551170

In the matter of the application of: CINDY LEE, 5429 B GEARY BLVD, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94121, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner CINDY LEE is requesting that the name CINDY LEE; CYNTHIA LEE ENG; CYNTHIA LEE FENG, be changed to CYNTHIA LEE. Now therefore, it is hereby ordered, that all persons interested in said matter do appear before this Court in Room. 514 on the 23rd of July 2015 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO FILE CNC-15-551220 In the matter of the application of: MICHAEL YINGXIAN HUANG, 418 SILVER AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112, for change of name having been filed in Superior Court, and it appearing from said application that petitioner MICHAEL YINGXIAN HUANG, is requesting that the name MICHAEL YINGXIAN HUANG, be changed to SKY YINGXIAN HUANG. 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 11th of August 2015 at 9:00am of said day to show cause why the application for change of name should not be granted.

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036487900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE SMOG SHOP, 276 11TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed CHRIS DISCOUNT MUFFLER & BRAKE INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/18/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036453500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: STREAT FLEET, 428 11TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed STREAT FLEET LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/27/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/27/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036486700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: STORIE’Z STYLE BBQ MOBILE, 2261 MARKET ST #643, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed STORIE’Z STYLE BBQ MOBILE LLC (CA).

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/14/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/18/15.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE A-035803500

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 an individual and signed by MACAELA P. STEELE. The fictitious name was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 04/25/14.

MAY 21, 28, JUNE 04, 11, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036481500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NORTHERN SKY HEALING, 201 DUNCAN ST #5, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94131. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed KATHLEEN WHITING. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/14/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/14/15.

MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036494500

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: URBAN PACIFIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES, 450 SUTTER ST #2640, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108.

This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed WENLI LOO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/19/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/21/15.

MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036485100

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036490600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DUTCHMAN’S FLAT, 601 19TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed MORTAR & MASH ONE, LLC (DE). 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 05/20/15.

MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036490700

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 11

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The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE PEARL, 601 19TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107.

This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed MORTAR & MASH ONE, LLC (DE). 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 05/20/15.

MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036486600

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: AQUA SPA, 14 CLEMENT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118-2418. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed AQUA SPA, LLC (CA).

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/01/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/18/15.

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MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036496300

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: REVEILLE COFFEE ROASTERS, 610 LONG BRIDGE ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94158. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed SHY GIRL LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/21/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/22/15.

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The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HUSHCONCERTS, 1 AVENUE OF THE PALMS #131, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94130. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed MAMALAYLA, 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 05/11/15.

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MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036511600

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JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036479400

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The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ITAFIT, 1910 JACKSON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed SERGIO MELISSANO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/29/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 06/01/15.

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The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ACUTE SALON, 3450 18TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed LINDA THOMAS-MAYFIELD. 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 05/13/15.

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JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036504700

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE AVENUES SPA, 3929 CALIFORNIA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed HENRY H. NGUYEN. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/27/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/28/15.

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036505400

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CAPIULI ARTS, 171 LIBERTY ST #401, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed KENNETH LEAF. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/28/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/28/15.

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036503800

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ALEX ILNICKI CONSULTING, 3876 CALIFORNIA, UNIT 3, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed ALEXEI LEON ILNICKI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/27/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/27/15.

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036503100

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The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ROOMSTORM, 5758 GEARY BLVD #545, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94121. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed WALKSOURCE, INC. (DE). 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 05/15/15.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SAN FRANCISCO BALLOONS, 533 BAKER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed CLIFF COURRIER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/27/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/27/15.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MYMY, 1500 CALIFORNIA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed DOWNTOWN MY MY, 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 05/22/15.

MAY 28, JUNE 04, 11, 18, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036492500

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036489900

JUNE 04, 11, 18, 25, 2015 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE A-036501900

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RAREFIELD DESIGN BUILD, 766 VALENCIA ST 3RD FLR, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed ONE INCH TO THE LEFT, INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 05/20/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/20/15.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: OCTAVIA; CLEMENT; NOIR LUXE; SUMMER & SAGE; AVA; CAMILLA; HAYES; 3130 20TH ST #225, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed STRAPLESS INC (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/15. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 05/19/15.

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KNOW RESEARCH LLC, 605 MARKET #505, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105. This business is conducted by a limited liability company, and is signed KNOW RESEARCH 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 05/27/15.

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<< From the Cover

12 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

<<

START study

From page 1

the CD4 count falls below 350 – and even more so below 200 – people with HIV are susceptible to opportunistic infections and cancers. But chronic HIV infection causes persistent inflammation and immune activation that can lead to problems long before T-cells fall into the danger zone.

However, in addition to its benefits – which include nearly eliminating the chance of passing the virus on to others – early HIV treatment also has potential drawbacks such as longer exposure to drug side effects and emergence of drug-resistant virus.

In 2010 San Francisco was the first city to recommend treatment for everyone diagnosed with HIV regardless of CD4 count. U.S. treatment guidelines followed suit in 2013. The World Health Organization currently recommends treatment when the T-cell count falls to 500.

“The ‘when to start’ debate in San Francisco has been in the rear view mirror for years,” Havlir said.

“We debated the pros and cons back then, but ultimately recommended early treatment because data were rapidly accumulating to show that early therapy preserves overall health, prevents AIDS complications, and protects against damage to organs such as the heart and brain. The earlier therapy is started the greater the chance to restore the immune system to full capacity and to limit the size of the HIV reservoir in the body.”

Doctors at Kaiser agreed.

“START removes any doubt about the benefits of early HIV treatment,” Dr. Brad Hare, director of HIV services at Kaiser Permanente, told the B.A.R. “In San Francisco we’ve been ahead of the game, recommending treatment for everyone, regardless of their CD4 count, since 2010. START confirms this is the right approach. For anyone who

has been unsure about starting HIV medications, the results of START show the benefits of starting early.”

START design and results

The Strategic Timing of Antiretroviral Treatment study, funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and several European agencies, enrolled 4,685 HIV-positive participants in 35 countries worldwide. Nearly three-quarters were men and the average age was 36. At study entry they had CD4 counts in the normal range – above 500 cells/ mm3 – and most were within their first year after being diagnosed.

Participants were randomly assigned to either start ART immediately or remain off treatment until their CD4 count fell to 350 or they developed an AIDS-defining condition. Nearly half of the deferred group ended up starting treatment, usually due to declining T-cells.

The study, which started in 2009, was scheduled to conclude at the end of 2016. But results were released early after an interim review showed that people who started early ART had about half the risk of reaching a combined endpoint of AIDS-related events (such as opportunistic infections and AIDSdefining cancers), serious nonAIDS events (such as major cardiovascular, kidney, or liver disease or non-AIDS cancers), or death.

As of March 2015, there were 41 cases of AIDS-related events, serious non-AIDS events, or deaths among people randomized to the early treatment group compared to 86 combined events in the deferred treatment group – a 53 percent reduction. Encouragingly, the benefits of early treatment were similar for participants from low-, middle-, and high-income countries. Serious side effects occurred at about the same rate in both groups.

While it was widely assumed that early treatment would prove beneficial, the magnitude of the effect was unexpected. Also surprising was

Liz Highleyman

UCSF Professor Steven Deeks

the fact that AIDS-related events declined even more than non-AIDS events with early treatment, since opportunistic illnesses usually occur at low CD4 counts. Looking at AIDS and death alone, there were 14 cases in the early treatment group compared to 46 in the deferred group – a 70 percent reduction.

“The results show exactly why the study was needed,” said longtime AIDS treatment advocate Simon Collins. “Nobody thought that early treatment would reduce AIDS events at very high CD4 counts.”

Although the relative or comparative risk reduction in the early versus delayed treatment groups was impressive, the absolute number of events was low in both groups, given that the study population was quite healthy. Among 100 patients followed for one year, the rate of illness or death fell from 1.25 cases in the early treatment group to 0.6 cases in the deferred group.

Based on these findings, the study’s data and safety monitoring board decided to halt the randomized portion of the trial. Everyone initially assigned to the delayed treatment group will now be offered ART. Participants will continue to be followed to monitor long-term outcomes. Further data are expected to be presented at the International AIDS Society conference this summer in Vancouver.

“The results from START are very informative and certainly place more emphasis on treatment to prevent the loss of CD4 cells when

they reach 500,” said UCSF Professor Jay Levy, who has been a skeptic of very early treatment. “I await the publication of the full study since the question remains as to whether individuals who maintain a CD4 cell count of 500 or above would require immediate therapy. Our clinical cohort has several people with CD4 counts of more than 600 cells.

I remain reluctant to begin them on antiviral therapy now.”

Guidelines and clinical practice

Although U.S. guidelines already recommend treatment for everyone diagnosed with HIV, the START results will likely influence other countries with more cautious guidelines. Some, like the U.K. with its CD4 threshold of 350, have held off on recommending very early treatment due to lack of evidence, while many low- and middle-income countries have focused their limited resources on people who need treatment most urgently.

“Every person living with HIV should have immediate access to life-saving antiretroviral therapy,” UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibe said in response to the findings. “This is a further demonstration of the importance of science and research that enables an evidence-based, people-centered response to HIV that leaves no one behind.”

Expanding eligibility will increase the global cost of treatment. According to UNAIDS, only 38 percent of the estimated 35 million people living with HIV worldwide are now on ART. But earlier treatment could ultimately prove cost-effective as it prevents new infections and reduces progression to serious illness.

“The START study will likely have limited impact in San Francisco – I think everyone here has bought into the idea that although treatment is not benign, it is less harmful than the virus, and most providers are recommending therapy for nearly

t

everyone,” UCSF Professor Steven Deeks told the B.A.R. “The same may be true for the entire U.S. I think the main effect will be in parts of Europe, where deferring therapy is still common. Also, it is likely that governments and other institutions that pay for therapy will now be more likely to find the resources to expand coverage.”

While most providers in the U.S. may recommend prompt treatment for their patients, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that of the 1.2 million people living with HIV in the U.S., about 14 percent remain undiagnosed and only 37 percent have been prescribed ART. Although the START findings may not change practice locally, they support the goals of San Francisco’s Getting to Zero plan for eliminating new HIV infections. Starting antiretroviral therapy as soon as people are diagnosed is part of the threepronged approach, along with preexposure prophylaxis, also known as PrEP, and improving retention in care.

“In our Getting to Zero plan we are bringing the city together to use HIV therapy for prevention and to insure that those with new HIV infections are rapidly offered treatment and support and engaged and maintained in care,” said Havlir.

“The focus has changed from ‘when should we offer treatment?’ to ‘how can we most effectively deploy treatment?’”

One AIDS expert said the major question, not surprisingly, is who will fund expanded treatment.

“I didn’t think [START] was a necessary trial as we’ve know for a long time that all should be treated for their own health and to stop transmission,” UCSF Center for AIDS Research director Paul Volberding told the B.A.R. “But policymakers do notice results like this. Hopefully, it will change the discourse from ‘when to start?’ to ‘who will pay?’”t

17

SF DocFest

Timon approaches

18

Out &About

Night music

16

O&A

15

Vol. 45 • No. 23 • June 4-10, 2015

www.ebar.com/arts

Grand opehrea on t r e m m su stage

H

ampering the harmony

Bill Cooper/Royal Opera House

Scene from Hector Berlioz’s Les Troyens: it takes an international village.

by Philip Campbell

T

he San Francisco Opera’s summer season opens this coming Sunday, June 7, with a matinee performance of Hector Berlioz’s truly grand The Trojans (Les Troyens). The production marks the US debut of director David McVicar’s new staging with the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Teatro alla Scala; and Wiener Staatsoper. It obviously takes an international village to get the old wooden warhorse onstage again all in one piece.

It has been 47 years since the War Memorial Opera House has attempted the epic saga as it was originally intended to be heard by the composer. Two operas, The Fall of Troy and The Trojans at Carthage, are joined in a single marathon enactment that clocks in at five-anda-half hours (including two intermissions). Il est très Wagnérien, if you catch my drift, but I can’t imagine the faithful of San Francisco feeling anything less than thrilled at the prospect of hearing all that glorious music in one sitting, and the casting and physical production are equally luxurious.

Mezzo-soprano Susan Graham (wow!) and tenor Bryan Hymel star as Dido and Aeneas, but perhaps even more exciting, Anna Caterina Antonacci brings her stunning portrayal of the prophetess Cassandra to California after burning up opera houses in France and England.

Anyone who has witnessed her in the role on

DVD (an unmissable Théâtre du Châtelet staging that includes Susan Graham) will appreciate there hasn’t been this amount of controlled diva fury onstage – sheer vocal allure and physical appeal – since the golden age of La Divina Maria Callas.

The Trojans cast includes our own local favorite Sasha Cooke as Dido’s sister Anna, and former San Francisco Opera Music Director Donald Runnicles is returning to the podium (he’s currently general music director of the Deutsche Oper Berlin) for his own major assignment in the pit. Antonacci shares her part for some performances with Daveda Karanas, and I wouldn’t let that stop me from getting in on the event before it is too late, but it could also be a reason to ponder the possibility of going twice.

If seeing Antonacci while you have the chance is important (believe me, it is), then the following production in the summer season should also prove irresistible. Two Women (La Ciociara), music by Marco Tutino with a libretto by the composer and Fabio Ceresa, based upon the famous novel by Alberto Moravia and even more famous film by Vittorio de Sica, receives its world-premiere run starting June 13 (in repertory through June 30).

The visceral drama of a mother and daughter’s courage and survival in the war-torn countryside of Italy towards the end of WWII might seem pretty grim for musical expression.

See page 22 >>

Deana Lawson

Playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney’s Choir Boy returns him to Marin Theatre Company, one of three area theaters that presented his Brother/Sister trilogy in 2000.

by Richard Dodds

H

is school is famous for its choir, an artistic achievement that has also become a bestowment lure to be protected by the private African-American prep school. And he is also the undisputed star of the choir, giving him a position of prestige and power. But Pharus Jonathan Young also has a proverbial and literal limp wrist, an indicator of an assertive effeminacy that unnerves the headmaster and his schoolmates. “Lord, is my wrist wrecking the world?” he exclaims in mock horror early in Tarell Alvin McCraney’s Choir Boy. “Pharus is on a definite trajectory,” the playwright said recently from his home in Miami.

“He knows what he wants, and has honed in on a talent that he feels gives him a right to get what he wants. In the American ethos, an ambition to use your talents to propel you in life is usually applauded. But when you add in qualifiers like ‘feminine,’ it starts to get problematic.”

Performances of Choir Boy begin this week at Marin Theatre Company, which was one of three area theaters that coordinated to present McCraney’s trilogy The Brother/Sister Plays five years ago. This time, Choir Boy comes close on the heels of McCraney’s Head of Passes at Berkeley Rep, though the conjunction is coincidental and the plays are set in very different worlds.

As with The Brother/Sister Plays, Head of Passes takes place in the marshy lands where earth melds with sea in Louisiana. But Choir Boy takes place at a prestigious all-male boarding school where students wear the uniform of blue blazers and khaki pants, and “Sir” starts any dialogue with an educator. Not surprisingly, beneath the groomed facade the students have typical issues of hierarchies, rivalries, and libido. But when an unseen student yells out “faggot” as Pharus sings the school song, the social order at fictional Charles R. Drew Prep School begins to become unglued.

As the choir’s leader, Pharus has the power to kick the suspected slur slinger from the choir – a particularly ignominious fate at Drew Prep. “The play to me is less about winners and losers and more a different look at how we think about young black men in this country,” McCraney said. “I know there are people who wonder why I’m not writing about young black men in urban life, but I’ve written that play and other people are writing those plays. I’m interested in the ones we think are supposed to be the voices of tomorrow, the ones that we think will turn into the Eric Holders and Barack Obamas. What are their challenges?”

McCraney himself grew up largely in a Miami housing project and was bullied at school and even called “faggot.” But his path eventually took him to DePaul University and Yale See page 14 >>

{ SECOND OF THREE SECTIONS } Spring and summer mean later sunsets and later hours at the Asian Art Museum. We’re open ‘til 9 PM on Thursdays and for just $5 after 5 PM, you can spend an evening in our beautiful building enjoying the galleries, special exhibitions, fun talks, lively gatherings and intimate hangs with artists. On first Thursdays, there are even cash bars, DJs and more. For details, visit www.asianart.org/thursdays

AT THE ASIAN ART MUSEUM

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<< Out There

14 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Anderson variations

t

by Roberto Friedman

G

ifted artist Laurie Anderson played four shows at SFJazz last week, and Out There was in the audience on Saturday night. Writer, composer, artist, musician Anderson is at heart a storyteller, and in these shows she reprised stories and songs from her decades-long career, set against improvisational collaborations with four different musicians. On Saturday, her partner was bassist Rob Wasserman.

The theme of that evening was animals, and it was dedicated to “the disappeared,” the 99% of all once-existing species that are now extinct. She told a story about doing a concert outdoors. “Finally the song was winding down, but this beautiful little melody was still going on. And I realized it was coming from a tree next to the stage. It was an owl. We were singing a duet, and I thought: I can die right now because life does not get better than this.”

The [UK] Guardian recently asked Anderson, “Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?”

She responded, “Oscar Wilde, because he’s hilarious, irreverent and from long ago.” A perfect pair.

Flora & fauna

Dawn Harms, Music Director & Conductor Sara Davis Buechner, Piano Tickets & Info: http://BARS-SF.ORG

June 6, 2015 8pm plus Recital at 3pm San Francisco Conservatory of Music 50 Oak (at Van Ness)

Kaprálová - Partita for Piano & String Orchestra Clara Schumann - Piano Concerto Smyth - Serenade The Bay Area Rainbow Symphony (BARS) is an orchestra that provides a safe and supportive environment for musicians of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. A 501(c)3 org, BARS makes cultural, social, and educational contributions to the San Francisco Bay Area by performing ambitious repertoire to a high standard.

Versailles boasts the most famous garden in the world, comparable in value to the Palace itself. But how did its renowned geometrically aligned terraces, its ponds, canals and tree-lined paths get to be that way? The new British film A Little Chaos offers some theories while brewing up a couple of romances. It will be screened for free on Tues., June 23, 7:30 p.m. at the Vogue Theater in SF. The multi-talented Alan Rickman directs this frothy concoction and stars in it as King Louis XIV. His leading lady is Kate Winslet, playing a revolutionary gardener in the King’s court. She believes her ideas for the exteriors are superior to those of renowned landscape architect Andre Le Notre (Matthias Schoenaerts). There’s sexual intrigue in the flora when his wife thinks Winslet’s power play extends to Andre. Stanley Tucci has a comical turn as a court dandy.

For free tickets, e-mail voguers-

Compleat Female

StageBeauty BY

JEFFREY HATCHER DI R EC TE D BY

ED DECKER

Courtesy the artist

Performance artist Laurie Anderson appeared at SFJazz Center.

vp@gmail.com with Chaos and your name in the subject line, and indicate if you want one or two tickets. If you are chosen, bring the e-mail you receive with you that evening.

BARS tab

Internationally renowned pianist Sara Davis Buechner isn’t new to the transgender conversation that seems to be happening all over society these days. Nearly 20 years ago in 1996, then-David Buechner, the winner of a dozen international piano competitions, began the quest to become Sara.

As part of this month’s Pride celebrations, this remarkable pianist will be joining the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony [BARS] and

music director Dawn Harms in a fascinating program of all women composers, Sat., June 6, 8 p.m. at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, 50 Oak St., SF. Buechner will also give a personal lecture-performance at 3 p.m. entitled, Crossing the Concourse: Sara Davis Buechner in Music and Words. She will talk about being the T in LGBTQ, share with dignity and humor what she has learned along the way about gender and gender roles, and discuss how preconceptions have both limited and enhanced her own life. This will be followed by a Q&A session.

On the evening program, Buechner will perform Kapralova’s Partita for Piano and Strings and the Clara Schumann Piano Concerto.

The concert will conclude with Ethel Smyth’s Serenade. For tickets and info, go to bars-sf.org.t

Handout

Kate Winslet in director Alan Rickman’s A Little Chaos, screening for free at the Vogue Theater in SF.

<<

Choir Boy

From page 13

School of Drama, and he has been open about his gay identity for many years. His plays have been staged and commissioned by such prestigious theaters as Chicago’s Steppen-

wolf, Manhattan Theatre Club, and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Choir Boy was a co-commission between Manhattan Theatre Club and London’s Royal Court Theater, where it had its premiere in 2012.

Being about a school choir, the See page 15 >>

PL AYING THRU J U N 14 LUST. DECEIT. REVENGE. ONE SWEEPING SAGA. BUY TICKETS AT NCTC SF.ORG BOX OFFICE : 415. 861 . 8972 25 VAN NESS AVE AT MARKET ST

Ed Smith

Forest Van Dyke, Dimitri Woods, Jelani Alladin, Jaysen Wright, and Rotimi Agbabiaka play the often-battling members of a school chorus in Choir Boy at Marin Theatre.

t

Theatre>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 15

Do you hear a waltz?

CHANTICLEER AN ORCHESTRA OF VOICES PRESENTS

SPANISH

GOLD

Choral music from the exuberant creative richness of the Spanish Golden Age

Kevin Berne

JUNE 10 @ 8pm - Mission Santa Clara JUNE 12 @ 8pm - St. Mark’s Episcopal, Berkeley JUNE 13 @ 8pm - Mission Dolores, San Francisco JUNE 14 @ 5pm - St. Francis Church, Sacramento JUNE 17 @ 8pm - St. Stephen’s Episcopal, Belvedere

Dana Ivey, as the aristocratic former courtesan Madame Armfeldt, gives advice to her granddaughter (Brigid O’Brien) in ACT’s production of A Little Night Music.

by Richard Dodds

I

t’s an evening in the company of Sondheim where lyrics are luscious and there’s a waltz in the air.

ACT has mounted a lilting rendering of A Little Night Music, and even amid some miscues, the pleasures of Sondheim’s score and Hugh Wheeler’s book come clearly into focus.

The 1973 musical was definitely a stylistic change of pace for Sondheim and his directorial collaborator Harold Prince, whose previous shows were the urbane Company and the nostalgically brittle Follies.

Those shows were both contemporary pieces set in Manhattan, and while A Little Night Music takes us back to Sweden of the early 1900s, regrets over roads not taken remain an integral part of the story about webs of old and new love affairs becoming intertwined.

Wheeler took his inspiration from Ingmar Bergman’s 1956 movie Smiles of a Summer Night, and the setting gave Sondheim the opportunity to write one of his most tuneful scores and some of his most exquisite lyrics. The challenge remains, however, no matter how advanced sound enhancement has become or how much diction has been practiced, to grasp the full extent of Sondheim’s rapid-fire wordplay on certain songs. It’s often his own fault, and to reread the lyrics of a song such as “A Weekend in the Country” right after seeing the show can be a revelation even to those who know the musical. (Sondheim fanatics are excluded.)

But most of what needs to come through does come through in director Martin Lamos’ production, even if it opens on an ill-advised note. The five lieder singers who start the show with a song about hazy romantic memories first appear in various states of undress as they sexually rub up against each other. It’s an inelegantly wrong

<<

Choir Boy

From page 14

play is studded with songs, and the traditional spirituals performed by the actors were chosen by McCraney to serve specific scenes. “These songs are part of the American ethos, and particularly black culture, and who will be the torchbearers of a strong tradition sets up a pressure cooker on the students. But after seeing so many productions of the play, I saw something that I wasn’t aware of when I wrote it. When someone who is that young and that vulnerable starts singing those words, it instantly connects to the present and what they’re feeling now.” But even

choice, and their returns to the stage often involve more off-kilter costuming.

And despite a couple of casting miscalculations, mostly we do get to see A Little Night Music in a professional, beguiling, and spacious production on the Geary stage. At the heart of the story is the reawakening passion between a small-town lawyer and a celebrated actress whose career has diminished to tours of smaller cities. The widowed Fredrik Eggerman has married the comely 18-year-old Anne, who is decidedly not wise beyond her years. Fredrik is in a sexual holding pattern as Anne holds onto her virginity nearly a year into their marriage, and when old-flame Desiree Armfeldt comes through town with her theater company, it isn’t long before Fredrik and Desiree have consummated their reunion.

But the timing is wrong for a resumption of romance, as “Send in the Clowns” declares with poignant precision. Fredrik has a new wife and a seminarian son who secretly lusts for his new stepmother. Desiree is currently attached to a hotheaded dragoon who himself has a bitterly jealous wife at home. But there is an angel in the wings, Desiree’s mother, a crusty former courtesan who now lives the life of an aristocrat. She sets up a weekend at her country home where the romantic rivals are forced into clinking champagne glasses together.

Most of the principal players rise to the needs of the material, with Patrick Cassidy starchily stalwart as Fredrik, Laurie Veldheer finding the right notes for his flighty wife Anne, and Justin Scott Herman comically repressing his sexual urges as Fredrik’s son. But while Karen Ziemba, a distinguished Broadway veteran, can sing, act, and dance admirably as Desiree, her presence simply is not one that projects glamor. Brigid O’Brien is brightly straightforward as Desiree’s young as they make sweet harmonies, the choir boys argue about the meanings of the songs they are singing.

“I think this play is about the mistakes we all make as kids, and what mistakes allow us to go on and what mistakes hamper us down because of race or gender or sexuality or who knows what. What happens when you’re being a kid, but in the eyes of everyone else, you have to be more than that. It’s not a play just about teenagers. It’s a play about the fabric and workings of this entire society.”t Choir Boy will run June 4-28 at Marin Theatre Company. Tickets are $35-$55. Call (415) 388-5208 or go to marintheatre.org.

but wise daughter. Emily Skinner offers a brash portrayal of the dragoon’s wife (and Desiree’s lover), but Paolo Montalban falls short as the swaggering military man. Marissa McGowan, as a lusty servant, nearly stops the show with her paean to passion in “The Miller’s Son.” The production’s most welcome moments are whenever Dana Ivey’s Madam Armfeldt is on stage.

Her arch remonstrations are perfectly delivered, and contain some of Wheeler’s wittiest writing. You might even think that Maggie Smith’s Dowager Countess from Downton Abbey is moonlighting in Sweden.t A Little Night Music will run at the Geary Theater through June 21. Tickets are $20-$140. Call (415) 749-2228 or go to act-sf.org.

DATES & TICKETS: ww.chanticleer.org | 415-392-4400

ebar.com

SPENCER DAY

FAITH PRINCE

SIMPLY BARBRA

June 5 - 6

June 19 - 20

June 27 - 28

For tickets:www.feinsteinssf.com Feinstein’s | Hotel Nikko San Francisco 222 Mason Street 855-MF-NIKKO | 855-636-4556

097969.01_HNSF_2015_Bay_Area_Reporter_6-4 ROUND #: MECH

<< Film

16 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

The power of documentaries

Courtesy SF DocFest

Courtesy SF DocFest

Salam Kahil with sandwich in director Lewis Bennett’s The Sandwich Nazi.

Courtesy SF DocFest

Three to Infinity: Beyond Two Genders filmmaker Lonny Shavelson at a green-screen shoot with Char Crawford.

by David Lamble

T

he 14th edition of the San Francisco Documentary Film Festival, playing the Roxie, Brava and Vogue Theaters June 4-18, covers the waterfront, from subjects sublime to personalities so bizarre it takes your breath away.

Three to Infinity: Beyond Two Genders Lonny Shavelson’s doc explores gender identity from A to Z, providing a perspective much closer to the one that sex pioneer Kinsey understood to be the real human condition. Some of his subjects have stories that are compelling; others seem more like cunning publicity hounds. The sweetest moments come from catching up with Bay

Area teen Sasha, the victim of a hate crime when a punk lit Sasha’s skirt on fire on an AC Transit bus, whose claims to be beyond gender labels resonate. (Roxie, 6/5, 15) The Sandwich Nazi Salam Kahil runs a deli in one of Vancouver, British Columbia’s least desirable neighborhoods. Lewis Bennett’s doc gets your attention from its first shot of the Lebanon-born Kahil showing off from behind the counter for an audience of appreciative teen boys.

Kahil, a one-time male escort, musician, and current sandwich-maker, loves nothing better than evoking his favorite word, blowjob. A hit at Austin’s South by Southwest Festival, the film provides an unexpectedly acute look at today’s fractured

Middle East during Kahil’s oddball journey back to visit his bio-family in Beirut. (Roxie, 6/7, 9) Sympathy for the Devil: The True Story of the Process Church of the Final Judgment Neil Edwards delves into the backstories of a new-age cult associated in the popular imagination with the assassination of presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, and with NYC’s terrifying “Son of Sam” rampage.

(Roxie, 6/7, 17; Vogue, 6/8) The Desk What happens when a cocky magazine features writer encounters a TV celebrity blowhard from New Zealand? Andrew Goldman documents his own rise and fall as a leading feature writer for The New York Times Magazine, in the process rattling some skeletons in the closets of the House of Sulzberger.

The movie is part spoof and part Seinfeld-like comedy “about nothing.” It helps that the laughs are all at the expense of people who seem to have it coming. (Roxie, 6/5, 8)

t

Scene from filmmaker Jeremy Royce’s 20 Years of Madness.

20 Years of Madness Remember back in the 90s when cable-access TV provided some intrepid show-offs their 15 minutes of fame? Filmmaker Jeremy Royce tags along as a Michigan man returns home for his 20th high school reunion thinking that reviving the show he used to film with his buds might just be a path forward in his up-to-now futile stabs at carving out a movie career. (Roxie, 6/6, 8) Michael Des Barres: Who Do You Want Me To Be? What would you do if you thought you were descended from royalty? Doc-maker J. Elvis Weinstein zooms in on the career of a renowned 70s-80s actor/glam-rock frontman, discovering in Michael Des Barres a figure as quirky as the title character in Woody Allen’s doc-spoof Zelig. A painfully funny trip down memory lane, with some lovely Big Chill moments. (Roxie, 6/11, 12) Dead When I Got Here This sublime doc begins with a soliloquy from a man who by all rights should be dead. Josue, his unshaven face framed by a hoodie, stares into

a fire, trying to explain a lifetime of painful losses. “I used to have a lot of things, you know. My woman, my daughter. And I lost everything, because I was a loser all my life: a coward, a liar, a thief. I asked for them to take me to the desert, and that’s where I am right now.”

In the years after WWII, Americans with lung ailments found the desert around El Paso, Texas to have miraculous curative powers. Today filmmaker Mark Aitken explores how the Mexican government, perhaps out of desperation, has used the desert surrounding El Paso’s sister city, Juarez, to help desperate men like Josue reclaim their lives at an asylum literally run by the inmates. The results aren’t pretty, often harrowing, but this is a portrait of how effective tough love can be when every other option has been exhausted. Josue’s journey is marked by a visit from an adult daughter who had long considered him dead. (Roxie, 6/12, 13)t Info: sfindie.com

Playing war

by Erin Blackwell

I

n Country is a sad film. Or maybe I’m the sad one, and the emotions I experienced while writhing in my seat are like the stories one tells oneself staring at clouds or Rorschach tests. In the absence of stimulation, as in “The Sleep of Reason” if you remember your Goya etchings, the mind gives birth to monsters. So it was I found myself besieged by dim memories and terrors from childhood while I watched uneventful footage of sorry-ass guys scrambling through tall grass and peering through thickets, heavily laden with vintage U.S. Army surplus, re-enacting the Vietnam war. This evocative documentary plays the SF DocFest at the Roxie Theater (6/5) and the Vogue Theater (6/11).

Early in the film, the guy who organizes the re-enactment weekend opens a small plastic bottle of bug repellent, takes a whiff, rolls his eyes, and, laughing, marvels that

the smell instantly sends Vietnam vets back in time to that beautiful country off the South China Sea they once shipped over to make war in. I guess he never heard of Marcel Proust and the madeleine that sparked the predominant literary sensibility of the 20th century. That would be way too pansy for him.

Nonetheless, “playing war” works on the hearts and minds of these little boys in grown men’s bodies, vets and wannabes alike, and In Country works on unsuspecting viewers in a similar way.

In Country is tedious, like military life, and tedium pursued for its own sake sometimes turns into enlightenment. That’s the secret of Zen. The film’s 80 minutes creep along at a snail’s pace, the editing seems haphazard, re-enactors’ personal stories are mixed with disorienting shots of Vietnam, which morph into the grisly nightmare of Iraq. You don’t know where you are, what you’re watching, exactly.

It’s kinda like what it feels like to be

POWELL AND PRESSBURGER’S

“Unlike anything I’d ever seen before!”

— MARTIN SCORSESE

“Bold! Crazy!

Exhilirating!”

—THE NEW YORK TIMES

“You have to see it to believe it.”

— KENNETH TUR AN, L A TIMES

“

!”

—TIME OUT NEW YORK

“The movie that made me want to make movies!”

— GEORGE ROMERO

rialtopictures.com/hof fmann

ONE WEEK ONLY! STARTS FRIDAY, JUNE 5

N EW 4 K RESTORATION Fri-Sun 1:00, 4:30 & 7:30 PM Mon-Thu 4:30 & 7:30 PM

Courtesy SF DocFest

Scene from filmmakers Mike Attie and Meghan O’Hara’s In Country.

an American now, having a not-sofunhouse mirror held up to our collective lack of historical perspective or fact-based political analysis, or awareness of “why they hate us,” or any kind of idea of how the hell we stop the great global war machine we as citizens are complicit with.

This is not a movie I would have sought out to watch had not my dear friend from childhood, Christopher Gaynor, alerted me a few years ago to the project’s existence.

His photographs of his deployment, 1966-68, which have recently been an exhibit, a book, and landed him Time magazine and BBC radio interviews, qualified him to serve as post-production consultant for In Country producer-directors Mike Attie and Meghan O’Hara, and editor Lindsay Utz. As a young girl, I had a huge crush on Chris, who was tall, blond, handsome, had a bristling mustache, and played exquisite

classical guitar. As my brothers and their friends evaded the draft as best they could, Chris went, head held high. Only later did I learn that he, like me, is queer.

Sigmund Freud, the bearded genius of Vienna, discovered that the compulsion to repeat experience trumps what he called the pleasure principle. Rather than try the new thing that beckons, we keep doing the thing we’re used to. This explains why I’m still writing for the Bay Area Reporter after 20 years.

Perhaps the same can be said of the U.S. and its war machine. The power brokers and armament-makers, even the corrupt Congress, are only doing what they know. Boots on the ground similarly yearn only to play boots on the ground, again and again and again.

In Country is a stealth film, artfully artless, that creeps up on you, gets under your skin, on your nerves,

and into your heart. I now have a visceral sense of Gaynor’s battlefield experience from watching a pathetic band of re-enactors schlep themselves through the Oregon woods, pretending to kill evil Communist Viet Cong. To write this review I have had to let go of my own repetitive anti-war diatribe, which, I realize, is merely the echo of my mother’s voice from 40 years ago, a voice Gaynor knew well. There’s a lot of confusion in U.S. minds right now.

We negotiate a fog-of-war propaganda dispersed by a corrupt media.

It’s not easy to distinguish film from reality, one war from the last or the next, friend from foe, us from them, terror from security. In Country might help you make up your own mind.t A Soldier Boy Hears the Distant Guns by Christopher Gaynor, ($39.99, blurb.com)

t

Theatre>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 17

Updated Shakespeare in Yerba Buena Gardens worst-case scenario, the money was available to you at one time, but then that that donor’s interest has changed doesn’t make them a bad person. You have to learn it’s a continuum, and that you’re part of a family.”

Timon! The Musical is site-specific in ways that go beyond the usual meaning of the term. “The musical is set in San Francisco at Yerba Buena Gardens right now, and we reference everything around us, the museums, the church, all the new

development – like how a 30-story skyscraper can become a 40-story skyscraper if you put a tiny museum in the basement. But if someone built a 50-story skyscraper and put Theatre Rhinoceros in the basement, I wouldn’t complain.”t Timon! The Musical will have performances at 7 p.m. on June 5-6, and 1 p.m. on June 7 at Yerba Buena Gardens. Admission is free.

More info at therhino.org.

Lorenz Angelo Gonzales

The cast of Timon! The Musical rehearses a kickline for Theatre Rhino’s outdoor staging of a contemporary riff on Shakespeare at Yerba Buena Gardens in downtown San Francisco.

by Richard Dodds

O

utdoor theater in San Francisco is always a risky business – dress in layers, as they say – and when you are performing in a popular public space, the variables are multiplied.

“The other night when we were rehearsing, this guy in the distance started picking up the dance moves,” said John Fisher, director and creator of Theatre Rhino’s Timon! The Musical. “I thought, why is that actor way back there? And it was like, oh my God, he’s not part of our show. And then he just left. It was actually really cute.”

Fisher’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s exceedingly obscure Timon of Athens is being performed at various points around Yerba Buena Gardens, with the actors and the audience taking the journey together at three performances beginning June 5. “We start in Jessie Square in front of the Contemporary Jewish Museum, we cross Mission Street moving to the esplanade at the Martin Luther King Jr. fountain, and then we’re taking a trip across the sky bridge to the Children’s Creativity Museum park. There’s stuff happening all the way during the 80 minutes.”

That stuff doesn’t contain much of Shakespeare’s original dialogue, which ranks low in the Bard’s canon, and is supplanted with Fisher’s contemporary satire about arts funding, with musical-comedy numbers

by Donald Seaver giving the cast a

chance to sing and dance. “But the plot of Timon is actually very contemporary,” Fisher said. “Timon is a big supporter of the arts with a lot of friends, but then he loses his money and nobody likes him anymore. It’s this weird thing of buying popularity in our culture.” Rhino regular Donald Currie heads the cast of 20 as the title character.

Instead of the Athenian government that has a central role in the original Timon, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors often comes up in the dialogue. “But we only have one politician that we actually name,” Fisher said. “It’s this certain local sheriff.”

Rhino’s production of Timon!

The Musical is part of the annual Yerba Buena Gardens Festival that presents dozens of free events through the summer and early fall.

“Yerba Buena is probably the only arts organization we don’t make fun of in the show,” Fisher said.

Timon marks a return to Yerba Buena for a Fisher free-form adaptation of Shakespeare. Titus! was staged there in 1998, and Linda Lucero worked on the show as a facilities coordinator. She is now artistic and executive director of the festival, and happily agreed when Fisher suggested another go at Shakespeare in the gardens.

“That was in 2009, and suddenly there was no money,” Fisher said.

“But when the economy bounced back, we both still wanted to do it.”

The city’s recent financial bounty figures into Fisher’s interpretation of

Timon. “The amount of money there is here now, and our expectations of what you think you’re entitled to as artists really does follow Shakespeare’s play,” Fisher said. “In the

presented by

THE SING-ALONG JUNE 26, 8 P.M. JUNE 27, 3 P.M. JUNE 27, 8 P.M. NOURSE THEATER with guest artist BREANNA SINCLAIRÉ

Donald Currie has the title role in Timon! The Musical, which takes a satiric look at contemporary arts funding.

ebar.com

TICKETS AT SFGMC.ORG OR (415) 392-4400 SEASON 37 IS SPONSORED BY

THE OFFICIAL AIRLINE OF SFGMC

<< Out&About

18 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Out &About

O&A

Each and Every Thing @ The Marsh Solo performer Dan Hoyle returns with his acclaimed show about about the slow-tech movement and how personal interactions outweight technology. $20-$100. Fri 8pm, Sat 8:30pm, Sun 5pm. Thru July 18.

Mainstage Theater, 1062 Valencia St. at 21st. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

Fri 5

Roam

Compleat Female Stage Beauty

by Jim Provenzano

H

ow far would you go for an entertaining evening or afternoon?

Walking distance? To the ocean? A mountaintop? Across centuries?

Walnut Creek? I wonder this as I add listings for events not in our local zip codes, or time zones, but which are alluring to the discerning taste, Take adventurous measures to enjoy enlightening artistic acts.

Lois Tema

Thu 4 Barbary Coast Revue @ Balancoire The third season of the popular cabaret show returns, with Danny Kennedy as Mark Twain, a cast of diverse performers, and new guest performer Connie Champagne.

Thursdays weekly thru June. $14-$64.

8pm. 2565 Mission St. at 22nd. www.BarbaryCoastRevue.com

The Book of Mormon @ Orpheum Theatre The mega-hit musical comedy (nine Tony Awards and a Grammy) by Trey Parker, Matt Stone and Robert Lopez returns. $60-$225. Tue-Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm. Sun 1pm & 6:30pm. Thru June 27. 1192 Market St. (888) 746-1799. www.BookofMormonTheMusical.com www.shnsf.com

Club Inferno @ Hypnodrome Thrillpeddlers’ production of Kelly Kittell and Peter Fogel’s glam rock musical spin on Dante’s The Divine Comedy, where the road to fame can be hell, literally! $30-$35. Previews June 4-6. Opens June 11. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Aug. 8. 575 10th St. at Bryant. 377-4202. hypnodrome.org

Grey Gardens, the Musical @ Gough Street Playhouse

Long-Term Survivor Project @ SF Camera Work Opening reception for an exhibit of AIDSthemed works by Hunter Reynolds, Frank Yamrus and Grahame Perry; 6pm-8pm.

Programs about HIV survivorship June 10 & 14. Thru July 18. 1011 Market St. 487-1011. sfcamerawork.org

Much Ado About Nothing @ Flight Deck, Oakland Gritty City Repertory Youth Theatre performs a groovy ‘70s take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy of romantic errors. $5-$50. Thu-Sat 8pm.

Sat 2pm. Thru June 6. 1540 Broadway, Oakland. www.grittycityrep.org

New & Classic Films @ Castro Theatre

Fascinating new works by artists from around the block and around the world, in dance, theatre, music, visual arts and film, including several LGBT creators and performers. Events include works

by Teatr Zar, Theater of Yugen, Ariel Luckey, Jesper Arin, Brian Freeman and others. Various times, admissions ($20$30) and venues. Thru June 7. sfiaf.org

Love and Information @ Strand Theater The inaugural performances at American Conservatory Theatre’s new satellite theatre; Carol Churchill’s kaleidoscopic play captures the dizzying array of electronic communication that helps and hinders true human connection. $40-$100.

Tue-Sat 7:30pm [note earlier curtain time]. Wed & Sat 2pm. Sun 2pm & 7pm. Thru Aug. 9. 1127 Market St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org

Two weeks of compelling documentary feature and short films, including related live music and singalong nights. $12-$25. Thru June 18.

820-3907. www.sfindie.com

SF International Arts Festival @ Various Venues

Fri 5 30 Years of Collecting Art That Tells Our Stories @ GLBT History Museum New exhibit of collected drawings, paintings and sculptures from three decades of queer donations, guestcurated by Elisabeth Cornu. Free (members)-$5. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org

Compleat Female Stage Beauty @ New Conservatory Theatre Jeffrey Hatcher’s stylish period dramedy about 1660s a crossdressing Shakespearian actor whose life drastically changes when women are allowed to act. $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru June 14. 25 Van Ness Ave, lower level. www.nctcsf.org

The Birthday Party @ Phoenix Theatre Harold Pinter’s darkly comic play about two strangers who invade a private party is produced by the award-winning Off Broadway West Theatre Company. $25-$40. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru June 27. 414 Mason St. #601. (800) 838-3006. www.offbroadwaywest.org

A Little Night Music @ Geary Theatre Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s lilting musical (based on the Ingmar Bergman Swedish film Smiles of a Summer Night) gets a lovely local production by American Conservatory Theatre, starring Patrick Cassidy, Emily Skinner, Karen Ziemba; directed by two-time Tony nominee Mark Lamos. $20-$140. Tue-Sat 8pm. Wed, Sat & Sun 2pm. (Out With A.C.T. June 3).

Thru June 21. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. act-sf.org

Central Works’ production of Gary Graves’ adaptation of Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s early feminist work, published in 1892, which follows a Victorian woman’s descent into madness when she sees a ghost. $15-$28. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru June 21. 2315 Durant Ave., Berkeley.

(800) 838-3006. centralworks.org

Desire, A Healthy Perspective @ Women’s Building U.S. Buddhist monk Gen Kelsang Jampa gives a talk on aspects of desire. $5-$20. 7pm. 3543 18th St. 407-9891. www.MeditationinSanFrancisco.org

g

Mount Misery @ Exit on Taylor Cutting Ball Theatre’s production of Andrew Saito’s drama about the Edward Covey plantation, where Frederick Douglass lived as a teenage slave; the property was later purchased by U.S. Sec. of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. The play brings the two men together. $10-$50. Thu 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm, Sun 5pm. Thru June 7. 277 Taylor St. 5251205. www.cuttingball.com

Ondine @ Sutro Baths

One Man, Two Guvnors @ Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Bekah Brunstetter new play’s about a computer whiz who’s an ace at survival games, but not in reality. $10-$25. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm. Thru June 7. 1834 Euclid Ave., Berkeley.

(510) 224-5744. impacttheatre.com

The Yellow Wallpaper @ Berkeley City Club

Sat 6

Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy’s dark musical comedy adaptation of the cult favorite 1989 film about conniving high school girls. $25-$36.

Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru June 13.

2961 16th St. at Mission. www.rayoflighttheatre.com

The Oregon Trail @ La Val’s Subterranean, Berkeley

Heart-Shaped Nebula @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley

Contributors to Joe Wenke’s anthology, The Human Agenda: Conversations about Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity discuss their lives and work, including Wenke, Hida Viloria, Capt. Kevin FisherPaulson and Gisele Alicea. 5pm. 1800 Market St. 865-5627. sfcenter.org

Heathers the Musical @ Victoria Theatre

Classic and new films in repertory.

June 4, Rosemary’s Baby and The Stepford Wives. June 6, Dumbo and The Passenger. June 10, Double Indemnity and Body Heat. June 11, Hatari and Roar. Most tickets $11. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

SF Docfest @ Roxie, Brava, Vogue Theatres

The Human Agenda Contributors @ LGBT Center

37th annual four-weekend dance festival of contemporary and traditional works by local and international companies. Free opening show at City Hall, June 5, 12pm.

(Other tix $15-$48). June 6 & 7, ten companies at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre. 2nd & 3rd weekends at Palace of Fine Arts. Week 3 (June 21) at YBCA. Thru June 27. www.sfethnicdancefestival.org

We Players, the innovative environmental theatre ensemble, presents an outdoor production of Jean Giraudoux’s fairy tale drama about an ocean-dwelling mermaid and her affair with an arrogant knight. $40-$60. Fri-Sun 4:30pm. Thru June 7. 680 Point Lobos Ave. www. weplayers.org

Custom Made Theatre’s production of Scott Frankel, Doug Wright and Michael Korie’s musical based on Maysles’ brothers’ disturbing documentary about Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter Edie, and their sad decline into obscurity and poverty. $20-$50. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm. Thru June 21. 1620 Gough st. at Bush. 7982682. www.custommade.org

Previews begin for Marisela Trevino Orta’s magical realist drama about the aftermath of a tragic accident. $5-$28 Wed 7pm. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru June 14. 1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley.

(510) 841-6500. shotgunplayers.org

Ethnic Dance Festival @ Various Venues

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Richard Bean’s comic update on Carlo Goldini’s The Servant of Two Masters, with biting one-liners, satire, live music and a bit of cross-dressing, is about a doltish butler who’s trapped between two bosses. $29-$89. Wed & Sun 7pm. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru June 28. 2025 Addison St. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

FINAL WEEKS! CLOSES JULY 19, 2015

Gowns, accessories, and other looks by the most influential designers of the last hundred years— including Chanel, Givenchy, Dior, and Charles James—trace the evolution of fashion in the 20th century. See this exclusive West Coast presentation from the Brooklyn Museum’s distinguished costume collection.

Spencer Day @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko The smooth crooner performs at the intimate upscale cabaret nightclub. $40-$55 ($20 food/drink min.). 8pm.

Also June 6, 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 663-1063. spencerday.com www.ticketweb.com

Story Time @ Books Inc. Mutha Chucka hosts a special children’s reading event, with Pride-themed crafts and snacks. First Fridays. 3pm. 2275 Market St. 8646777. www.booksinc.net

Talley’s Folly @ Harry’s Upstage, Berkeley Aurora Theatre Company restages Lanford Wilson’s lyrical uplifting two-actor drama. $30-$50. Tue 7pm.

Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru June 7.

2081 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 8434822. www.AuroraTheatre.org

MARCH 14–JULY 19, 2015

Legion of Honor Lincoln Park • legionofhonor.org

Melancholy, a Comedy @ The Marsh Sara Felder’s solo show about a lesbian college student’s romantic entanglements while researching Abraham Lincoln’s depression. $15$100. Sat 5pm. Sun 7pm. Thru June 28. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

Walking Distance Dance Festival @ Various Venues Diverse two-day program of dances

by RAWdance, Gallim Dance, Amy Seiwert, Jess Curtis/Gravity, ODC Dance and others, each at venues within walking distance of each other. $30-$65. June 5, 8pm, June 6, 4pm, 8pm. Free events June 6, 3pm & 6pm.

ODC Dance Commons (351 Shotwell St.), ODC Theater (3153 17th St., St. Charles School (3250 18th St.). 8639834. www.odcdance.org/wddf

President’s Circle: The Estate of M The Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fu Hamilton, Mrs. Jam

Charles James, “Tree” ball gown, 195 Gift of the Brooklyn M

Sun 7 Pacific Worlds @ Oakland Museum New exhibit focuses on the contemporary lives of and historic cultures of Pacific Islanders and California; thru Jan. 3. Bees: Tiny Insect, Big Impact thru Sept 20. Also, photographer Marion Gray: Within the Light thru June 21; Free/$15.

Reg. hours Wed-Sat 11am-5pm (Fri til 9pm). 1000 Oak St., Oakland. (510) 318-8400. www.museumca.org

Abrazo, Queer Tango @ Finnish Brotherhood Hall, Berkeley

Sun 7

Pacific Worlds

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

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Film>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 19

Mon 8 Susan Jorgensen @ John Pence Gallery

Fri 5

Beached boy

Exhibit of detailed photographs of nature and still lifes. Thru June 27.

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Sat 10am-5pm.

750 Post St. 441-1138. johnpence.com

Tue 9 Gay Skate Night @ Church on 8 Wheels LGBT night 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

SF Ethnic Dance Festival RJ Muna

John Cusack and Elizabeth Banks in director Bill Pohlad’s Love & Mercy.

by David Lamble

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This exhibition is organized by The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

Merrill and Hedy Thruston. Conservator’s Circle: The Diana Dollar Knowles Fund. Benefactor’s Circle: und, the Estate of Harriet E. Lang, and Robert and Carole McNeil. Patron’s Circle: Mr. and Mrs. William mes K. McWilliams, and Jim and Arlene Sullivan. Additional support provided through proceeds from The Art of Fashion: Runway Show and Luncheon. Digital Design by Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

Media Sponsors

55. Silk taffeta and tulle. Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Douglas Fairbanks Jr., 1981. Image © The Metropolitan Museum of Art

OUTspoken @ City Hall Outspoken: Portraits of LGBTQ Luminaries, an exhibit of photographs

by Roger Erickson. Opening reception June 9, 5pm-7:30pm. Ground floor, North Light Court. Thru Sept. 11. 1 Carlton B. Goodlet Place. sfgov.org

Wed 10 Lava Thomas @ Museum of the African Diaspora Exhibit of contemporary works. Also, The Art of Elizabeth Catlett, and historic exhibits of African cultures.

Free/$10. 685 Mission St. www.moadsf.org

Tzedakah Box @ Contemporary Jewish Museum Tzedakah Box, Bound to be Held: A Book Show, Lamp of the Covenant ; lectures and gallery talks as well. Free (members)-$12. Fri-Tue 11am-5pm, Thu 11am-8pm (closed Wed). 736 Mission St. 655-7800. thecjm.org

Thu 11 Jeremy Jordan @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko The Tony-nominated musical theatre actor-singer ( Newsies) and TV star ( Smash ) returns with his popular cabaret concert. $70-$85 ($20 food/ drink min.). 8pm. Also June 12, 8pm.

June 13 & 14, 7pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 663-1063. www.jeremy-jordan.com www.ticketweb.com

The Right Side of History @ Books Inc. Three contributors to the new anthology (subtitled 100 Years of LGBTQI Activism ) read from and discuss their participation in the LGBT movement, including transgender activist Miss Major Griffin-gracy, historian/curator Paul Gabriel, and author Max Wolf Valerio. 7pm. 2275 Market St. www.booksinc.net

he new musical film Love & Mercy: The Life, Love and Genius of Brian Wilson (opening Friday at Bay Area theaters) is a treat not to be missed. It’s for anyone who pines for the days when the “California Sound” (the Beach Boys, Jan & Dean) squared off against the “British Invasion” (the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, the Kinks, the Moody Blues), producing a proliferation of composer-inspired musical forms perhaps not witnessed since the passing of the torch from Bach to Mozart to Beethoven.

Love & Mercy captures the 60s musical zeitgeist as director Bill Pohlad gets us inside young pop prodigy Brian Wilson (played in the 60s segments by actor-musician Paul Dano, vocalist and lead guitar for the indie band Mook), showing how the boy genius is first envied, then betrayed, drugged and pyschobabbled into impotence by warring father figures: the quack shrink Dr. Eugene Landy (a devious Paul Giamatti) and a violent stage father, Murry (Bill Camp), who abuses Brian so severely that the young man becomes deaf in one ear. The film’s parallel 80s story finds a depressed and beaten-down Wilson (John Cusack) rescued by a chance encounter with a perky Cadillac saleswoman (Elizabeth Banks), leading both to Wilson’s freedom from the bad dads and the rebirth of his composing and touring with a reconstituted Beach Boys.

I chatted with Love & Mercy director Bill Pohlad during the film’s West Coast debut at the SF International Film Festival. Pohlad cut his filmmaking spurs as the innovative producer of films such as 12 Years a Slave, The Tree of Life and Into the Wild. Love & Mercy is Pohlad’s second directorial credit, the first since 1990’s Old Explorers.

David Lamble: I loved your take on Brian Wilson and the “California Sound” he developed with his brothers in the early 60s. I grew up in New York before the Beatles hit. Like many nerdy urban kids who couldn’t tell one end of a surfboard from another, my tastes ranged from Bach to Sarah Vaughn to Sinatra. How did you get hooked on the Wilson family band?

Bill Pohlad: I have to admit that at first I was very much a Beatles guy. I confessed this to Brian. I had an appreciation for the Beach Boys, but it wasn’t until about 15 years ago that I latched onto the Pet Sounds album and was truly hooked. Then this project came along, and I really dove in.

“I knew from the beginning that I wanted Brian to be played by two different actors, and I could let each be his own Brian, so to speak, without forcing either of them to match the other actor’s physical affectations and choices.”

–director Bill Pohlad

Let’s talk about Paul Dano as the younger Brian Wilson. I’ve followed him since his breakout indie debut L.I.E., and he’s become the leading star of his generation. There’s the weight gain, which recalls what Robert DeNiro did to become the older Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull. And Dano exudes a joy for life that sets us up brilliantly for his later slide into depression (portrayed

by John Cusack). There’s also Dano’s uncanny ability to portray Brian’s bouts of paranoia, like the scene where he freaks out while on a commercial airliner and has to be ministered to by his bandmates.

Yes, in fact Paul did such a good job at gaining pounds we had to do a bit of trimming in the few days before the shoot, but it worked out great. He’s such a natural that he doesn’t get caught up in these things.

I don’t mean to downplay the work that Paul does, but he doesn’t make a big deal about it. He’s not egotistical, he’s a great guy to work with!

How did you select actors to play the other musicians in the original Beach Boys?

We tried to get guys who could sing a little bit, but we really wanted good actors. They were all wonderful, especially Jake Abel, who plays Mike Wilson. He’s a real standout.

Then there’s John Cusack, as the older Brian. The whole notion of switching back and forth between Dano and Cusack, as we observe the challenges faced by a young and an aging Brian Wilson, is truly amazing.

I knew from the beginning that I wanted Brian to be played by two different actors, and I could let each

be his own Brian, so to speak, without forcing either of them to match the other actor’s physical affectations and choices.

Mike Love could have come off as a heavy in the piece.

Yeah, Mike was known in the media as being kind of the “bad guy,” but I was trying to make all the people in Brian’s life be rounded characters. Mike is just a regular guy, he had a good gig going, and suddenly his cousin [Brian] starts going off in this other direction, wanting to be more creative. Mike just wasn’t like that. I was trying to show the different stakes that each of the men in Brian’s life had: his shrink Landy, his father Murry.

You had Paul Giamatti play “the shrink from hell,” bookended by “the father from hell.” That was something for Brian to survive.

Certainly, and without trying to create cliche villains, I wanted to demonstrate the forces Brian was up against, what he had to overcome to become his own man and great mature artist. These men had dilemmas in their own right in wanting to become more successful, more famous than they were. They saw this genius and wanted to hook into that. It’s an odd kind of character flaw.

The result is this terrific narrative arc where Brian has to struggle to overcome forces that might have crushed a lesser man. We’re left looking at the wreckage of a life and wondering, “Whatever happened to him?”

Sadly, the other members of Brian’s family have passed on. You would have thought that Brian would have succumbed. Instead he’s the last man standing.t

<< Film

20 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Grim tales of E.T.A. Hoffmann

by Erin Blackwell

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Rialto Pictures

Scene from director Michael Powell’s 1951 film Tales of Hoffmann, newly restored and released.

.T.A. Hoffmann (1776-1822) is best remembered as the Prussian writer whose creepy tales inspired Sigmund Freud’s concept of the Uncanny (1919), literally the un-cozy (Unheimlich), which describes the effect produced when something familiar, like a doll, suddenly turns into a strange, hostile, life-threatening incubus. The ballets Nutcracker and Coppelia are based on his stories, and the opera Tales of Hoffmann (1881) transformed the writer himself into a Romantic anti-hero. Notoriously tricky to pull off, Tales has never looked more improbable than in the newly restored 1951 film directed by Michael Powell, opening June 5 at Opera Plaza.

Powell (1905-90) is notorious as the auteur of Peeping Tom (1960), a nasty little film that was first denounced then championed by the kind of people who champion nasty little films. Although perhaps no man can truly be said to like women, some filmmakers are more overt in their rage against Mommy than others. Hitchcock made a career of it. Misogyny sells. And so it is with Tales, an opera cobbled from late Victorian cliches: the singular young hero who loves, the serial

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girlfriends who deceive, the evil father figure who runs the show. What new thing could Powell possibly have to say about the uncanniness of the female?

After a brief, frenetic ballet within a backstage intrigue within an overture by way of warm-up, Powell follows the creaking three-act structure of the opera, but films ballet dancers lip-synching arias sung by invisible opera singers. There’s something uncanny about a ballerina singing coloratura while twirling like a top.

I guess that’s why she stops trying to move her lips. Consistency is, after all, the hobgoblin of small minds.

Robert Rounseville as Hoffmann lip-synchs his own pure tenor and only “dances” at the end, donning white tights to wobble disconcertingly alongside the intensely vacant Moira Shearer in a process shot worthy of Busby Berkeley.

Amidst flamboyantly flimsy sets representing Paris, then Venice, and finally antique ruins on a Greek isle, Hoffmann loses his heart to one flawed love object after another. The lady in question is always in the power of a mysterious malevolent magician, a pimp of the dark arts played with tedious intensity by little Robert Helpmann, a hybrid parrot-pug channeling Boris Karloff and George Zucco. Helpmann is a trim, authoritative dancer who flits about expertly striking unwavering attitudes of menace without blinking. When he moves his lips in accompaniment to Bruce Dargavel’s thundering bass, he appears unsullied by intent.

Since in my role as reviewer I didn’t think it fair to close my eyes, I grew giddy from swirling spectacle plucked from disparate schools, genres, and disciplines, dripping candles, mirrors, nose putty, green eye-shadow, wigs, staircases, anatomically challenged statuary. When you close your eyes, as I briefly did, you can actually hear the score, which let’s face it contains some haunting melodies by Jacques Offenbach (1819-80). Offenbach’s legendary charm might have got people to the cinema, but Powell made sure they knew who was in the director’s chair. His unabashed megalomania made fans of directors George “Zombie” Romero and Martin Scorsese.

The low or high point, depending on your mood, is the murder and dismemberment of Miss Shearer, who, being merely a wind-up doll, can be abused with panache. Powell painstakingly creates the illusion of two prancing men pulling her limbs from their sockets. The process is grim. The whole film is grim. Ramming the gamut of stage and screen tricks willy-nilly produces an effect not unlike eating too much cotton candy before riding the tea cups at Disneyland. Vomit. Kaleidoscopically layering artifice upon artifice, Tales is way weirder than any play, ballet, or opera ever tried to be.

Wittingly or un-, Powell destroys from within the cultivated charms of 19th-century European opera and ballet, dragging viewers into a dystopian post-Blitz, post-Hitler, post-Hiroshima wasteland of English alienation. Metaphysically, he is right to deny any Romantics in the audience their illusory pleasures.

And so it was that Screening Room #1 at the Embarcadero Cinema, which I had come to trust as a cozy purveyor of films of varying quality viewed in exaggerated comfort, came to seem to me as a circle of Hell. Sure, I got a free cup of tea to accompany a free film, but the workaday perk incrementally morphed into an elaborate torment.

Ever dutiful, I could but writhe in the impatient hope it would all hurry up and be over soon. Hoffmann clocks in at a tedious 136 minutes.

Existence seems hollow.t

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Books>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 21

Queen of the damned

by Jim Piechota

The Scarlet Gospels by Clive Barker; St. Martin’s Press, $26.99 n The Scarlet Gospels, the final installment of the splatterpunk Hellraiser series, severed flesh and fresh blood flow like lava, and that’s just in the opening section.

The volume’s first 25 pages, spelling out the morbid fate of the world’s last living magicians, form a gorefest that Barker fans will revel in and perhaps re-read, as this reviewer did, just to relive the creative genius displayed there. The enchanted final five, desperately spewing incantations and pleas for mercy, are soon sacrificed to the sharp chains and hooks commanded by the whims of the dark lord Cenobite known as Pinhead, and his penchant for disemboweling those who smart-talk him or challenge his doctrine of evil. Of the post-kill, blood-soaked landscape, Barker writes: “Surely a faster autopsy had never taken place.”

Once Pinhead destroys these harbingers of good magic, including the instantaneous impregna-

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tion and spontaneous birthing of a female spawn who rises and walks off into the sunset, the story churns onward, spearheaded by private investigator Harry D’Amour. First appearing in The Last Illusion in Barker’s Books of Blood, this resilient detective goes head to head with the sadistic Hell Priest (first introduced in the 1986 short The Hellbound Heart) and brandishes several protective qualities, namely the tattoos on his chest that quiver and twitch when phantoms approach.

Aided by elder ghost empath Norma Paine, Harry is sent to clean up the New Orleans “House of Sin” of a married man with a penchant for luring young men to sex parties in his home. After making his way past the blood splashings across the threshold, Harry discovers the dreaded magic box in a hidden room, and from this trademarked “Lament Configuration,” all hell breaks loose.

Harry must first battle one of the magicians who has been reanimated and enslaved thanks to Pinhead’s unique brand of reconstructive sur-

gery. From there, he is made a grand offer by Pinhead, who has since been banished from the Monastery of the Cenobitical Order. Harry is commissioned to record a succession of atrocities Pinhead will commit into his gospels.

His refusal thrusts Norma into hell, where he, along with several sidekicks, must travel to save her.

Exquisitely detailed and infused with all the prophetic wisdom, stern warnings, dark comedy, and anti-theology Barker books are well known for, the scorched wasteland and fiery inferno of hell becomes the backdrop for a glorious battle among Harry, Pinhead, and fallen dark angel Lucifer, all fighting for supremacy in Barker’s DanteanBoschian underworld. The battle is an epic blockbuster, filled with every imaginable torture and a climax that will satisfy horror fans thirsty for devilish closure. “All the fireworks were red again tonight,” Pinhead gloats.

Barker, 62, has experienced his own version of hell in recent years, beginning with a near-fatal case of toxic shock syndrome in 2012 after

a routine dental visit. Later that same year in a bizarre relationship twist, Barker’s former longtime boyfriend sued the author and unleashed a host of tabloid charges, including purposeful HIV transmission after partaking in alleged “cousin sex,” syringe-laden sadomasochistic parties, and drug-soaked sex romps attended by underage boys. Nothing ever became of the allegations, but it’s easy to see how Barker found the intent to delve deeper into his seedy underworld with this new book.

The Scarlet Gospels is classic Clive Barker, as thrilling and compulsively readable as his last adult foray, 2001’s imaginative novel Coldheart Canyon. With the red velvet curtain closing on the monstrous Books of Blood franchise, here’s hoping there will be new and equally gruesome adventures to unleash from this beloved author with an unstoppable imagination.t

Coolsville at the Chelsea

Paula Court

Brad Gooch and Howard Brookner set up housekeeping in the dilapidated, bohemian Chelsea Hotel.

by John F. Karr

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rad Gooch has written a book that’s not exactly summer reading. But if you pick it up to take to the park, even if you take it to the beach, I doubt you’ll be able to put it down. Smash Cut (Harper, $27.99) is subtitled A Memoir of Howard and Art & the ’70s & the ’80s. A torrent of words, that, but reflecting the torrent of life led by Gooch and his lover, filmmaker Howard Brookner, in those heady, horny days. It’s a sad story, but its pain is assuaged by the easy flow of Gooch’s alwayshandsome prose. In the language of film, a smash cut is a quick edit that butts up suddenly disparate, purposefully disjunctive content. And while Gooch’s book will not cause whiplash, it’s constructed of jarring smash cuts.

The chapter “Downtown” depicts the whirlwind of gay life in the 70s, and Gooch’s early years as a struggling writer. Gay identity was up for grabs in a Wild West of gay possibility. Gooch’s life is decorated with friends like Keith Haring, Virgil Thompson, and Tina Brown before she became Tina Brown.

Gooch meets Brookner in a gay bar; Howard works on his first movie, a documentary about Burroughs.

(Gooch to a recent interviewer: “William Burroughs kind of scared

Henny Garfunkel

Author Brad Gooch in 2015.

me and creeped me out.”) They exchange boyfriends, break up, sleep with everyone, take drugs, get back together, try to find their way as artists, but generally do a lot of unproductive drifting. Gooch’s life in particular is unfocused, though fun.

Or ostensible fun. You want to know about the Mineshaft? Sink down with tour guide Gooch into its pleasuring mire.

Abruptly, Gooch stumbles into a modeling career, and we cut to Milan and Paris. This only takes him away from his writing, and away from Brookner, who’s numbing his emotions with heroin. Despite the glittering names and locales – Warhol, Burroughs, Mapplethorpe, Fire

Island, Paris, Rome – I didn’t find the tale at all glamorous. Heroin addiction isn’t pretty, no matter whose and no matter where. Gooch is lucid about the drugs, the messed-up relationships, the aspirations and delusions of himself and his circle.

There’s a brief mention of a new cancer appearing among gay men.

We’re glad to quick-cut back home, to Gooch and Brookner living together in the dilapidated, bohemian Chelsea Hotel, and their success with first movies and books.

Gooch touchingly pinpoints the moment he and Brookner “came to some authentic caring for each other.” But mortality shadows their life, and friends begin to die. When Brookner falls ill, there’s a jump cut to St. Vincent’s Hospital, a harrowing scene of AIDS despair. And then Madonna, who’d been a casual friend, appears and is steadfast, concerned and nurturing. I’ve not particularly been her fan, but through this revealing portrait I gained respect for her, and admired the generous love she extended Brookner.

Gooch is a cool witness to the era’s excess and his own conflicting behavior; his quiet honesty is bold.

Smash Cut is a love story and an elegy. It’s heady, sexy, heartbreaking, and most notably, even in the face of death, written not from anger, but love.t

More reissue roulette

by Gregg Shapiro

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or a minute there, San Francisco-based indie records label 415 Records had one of the coolest rosters of the late 70s/early 80s, including Romeo Void, the queer band Until December, and Pearl Harbor and the Explosions. West Coast punk band Translator, another of 415’s bands, managed to score a college radio hit with the song “Everywhere That I’m Not” (said to be about John Lennon), one of 22 songs included on the compilation Sometimes People Forget (Omnivore). Translator knew how to get into people’s heads and feet on “Necessary Spinning,” “Eraser” and “Standing in Line.”

Out of print for several years, OX4_: The Best of Ride (Sire/ Rhino) has been reissued on CD and vinyl just in time for seminal Oxford shoegaze band Ride’s 2015 reunion tour. Grindy but

melodic like fellow Brits My Bloody Valentine, Lush, Curve and Catherine Wheel, Ride released one masterpiece, its 1990 major-label debut Nowhere, then never lived up to its promise. Songs from Nowhere, including “Vapour Trail” and “Dreams Burn Down”; from Going Blank Again (the poppy “Twisterella” and lengthy “Leave Them All Behind”); Carnival of Light (“From Time to Time” and “How Does It Feel To Feel?”) and later Ride albums make up the bulk of the compilation.

A slightly more obscure shoegaze outfit, Blind Mr. Jones only has two albums to its credit, the second of which, Tatooine (Saint Marie) from 1994, has been reissued in a remastered edition. Alternately mellow-psych (“Hey”) and pop-punk (“Disneyworld”), Blind Mr. Jones can also see its way to making accessible pop on “What’s Going On” and “Surfer Baby.”t

ebar.com

<< Music

22 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Killing Lulu

by Tim Pfaff

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K, maybe Cate Blanchett. But otherwise, who but lesbians can play lesbians? By reputation, the title character of Alban Berg’s Lulu is as hard to portray as her music is to sing. Yet many sopranos have, pardon, killed in the role with highly individual interpretations. The bigger problem is Countess Geschwitz, her lesbian lover-wannabe. She’s a heart-breaking character, but usually played for stock, cheap stock.

The singers who have brought the character alive have been real-life lesbians: Tatiana Troyanos, Brigitte Fassbaender, and now, Deborah Polaski in the so-called 2012 “Berlin” Lulu, just released on DVD (DG).

Verily, Polaski has walked among us. In 1988, she famously withdrew from an SF Opera production of The Flying Dutchman after a single performance, citing for her reason direct word from God to do so. Rumors of a psychosexual meltdown flew, but

BAR 3.75x5 online appointment ad v3.indd 1

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Polaski, the daughter of fundamentalist parents, said she would withdraw from the sinful world of opera altogether and sing only religious music, at least until God told her otherwise. Gratefully, (s)he did, and for her resumed fine opera singing, this Geschwitz in particular, may all Polaski’s sins be forgiven.

Since 1979, Berg’s extraordinary opera, to some minds the 20th century’s greatest, has been revealed in full. Friedrich Cerha’s completion of the orchestration of the third act – which Berg left in sketch before that other dark angel, his Violin Concerto, claimed his life – has resulted in the opera’s having secured a solid place in the repertory, and having become a hot-ticket item.

Among the many reasons Geschwitz is important is that she literally gets the last word (“Lulu, my angel”) in the opera’s final, radiant, almost redemptive moment. So it’s a particular pity that, of all the principal characters in this lulu of a Lulu,

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Polaski, with her flapper-waved hair, dagger eyes and keen, searching musicianship, loses proportionately the most of her music, including her defining interaction with Lulu.

What? Man-handling this Lulu, director Andrea “I am old-fashioned to the core” Breth has, like most selfstyled conservatives, proved herself to be so in all the wrong ways. Had she wreaked no other damage, and she has, she has vandalized the score by cutting, completely, the Prologue and the first scene of Act 3, episodes that are notoriously difficult to stage. So what we once called the Lulu “torso” – minus Act 3; cut off below the knees – now has had its head and arms lopped off as well.

In stark contrast to the work’s essence, Breth’s is a profoundly misogynist Lulu, all but glorying in depictions of violence against women. Tellingly, some of the men we’re meant to see dying or being killed onstage aren’t. Dear Old Doctor Goll, the opera’s black-comedic first casualty, spends the better part of what remains of the opera sitting, glowering, in front of a pile of wrecked cars, thumbing the pianovocal score of the three-act Lulu, the real victim of Breth’s butchery.

Inexplicably, Jack the Ripper does not kill Geschwitz at the completion of his “piece of work,” turning the Countess’ final apostrophe to Lulu into a kind of attenuated Liebestod, minus the meaning. Yet the violence directed at “real” women is so extreme that a character who never appears onstage in Berg’s libretto is shot, butchered and further violated through almost the whole of the opera that survives.

Oh, for thousands more words to detail the perversities of this production, but let one stand for the many. In a clumsy contradiction of Chekhov’s dictum that there should never be a gun onstage that does not go off, Lulu’s gun has a premature ejaculation in Berth’s Act 2, when she misses Dr. Schoen and instead hits and kills an unidentified woman, on whose body a cigar-smoking Geschwitz paints. In the visual muddle of Berth’s staging, the victim looks like Schoen’s fiance, the hapless “Brigitte.” Whoever she is, the poor wretched dear isn’t just shot; for the remainder of the act and into the third, her corpse is slashed by a knife-wielding mime (the Man10:17 AM servant in sinister sunglasses) and hauled about in a wheelbarrow, in and out of a not-quite-large-enough black plastic garbage bag.

Lulu gives a director two great opportunities for visuals: the Lulu

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portrait, which, like the picture of Dorian Gray, mirrors her rise and fall, and a movie sequence Berg specifies for his palindromic interlude at the opera’s center. Berth demurs on both, substituting the grisly Brigitte-in-the-wheelbarrow pantomime for the film. We see the Lulu “painting” only when, in Act 3, Lulu herself is nailed to a door frame, rather than a picture frame, in one of the countless instances of Berth’s putting the soprano in what apologists for torture call stress positions, for gruelingly long periods of time. Were more proof needed that the director is sight-deaf, she has the frisch-aus-dem-Krankenhaus Geschwitz wrap her entire head in gauze while singing.

The pity of it all is that this studied defilement of Lulu is a waste of a truly great cast. The lithe, beautiful, mysterious, doe-eyed Mojca Erdmann perfectly matches Alwa’s description: “If it were not for your two childlike eyes, I should say you were the most designing of whores and bitches.” (To which Lulu replies, “I wish.”) Erdmann’s singing isn’t just accurate and fearless, it’s intoxicatingly beautiful and of uncommon power. You get the feeling she could shower and sing Sieg-

linde, all three acts of it.

Thomas Piffka’s Alwa is the nearHeldentenor antihero Berg created, and he renders this most conflicted of characters in great washes of transporting sound. Yes, I know Michael Volle was a vocal mess as Sachs at the Met this season, but here he’s a fully realized Schoen/Jack the Ripper vocally and dramatically. There’s not a ringer in the cast, but it needs noting that Stephan Ruegamer, a silvery-voiced character tenor who appears in blackface as Act 3’s Neger, does some astonishingly looselimbed dancing – while he’s singing.

Conductor Daniel Barenboim draws pellucid, succulent, Mahlerdrenched playing from the orchestra of the Berlin Staatsoper, and underwrites some of the tightest ensemble musicianship – onstage, below and between – I’ve ever heard. But as the company’s music director, he should have aborted this project in its infancy. The final insult to the opera is David Robert Coleman’s commissioned new completion of the third act, a snot-nosed bit of juvenilia that adversely affects even Berg’s carefully crafted vocal lines.

Glorious as the music-making is, Coleman’s and Berth’s revision is at best half a Lulu. Call it Lu.t

SF Opera

From page 13

When one thinks of the connection of the tale to the horrors of contemporary war and the almost superhuman struggles of the women of today, however, the case seems exceedingly clear. There is love involved, and lots and lots of hate, too, so an opera in Italian (with English supertitles) becomes even more inevitable. Tutino is frankly amenable to catching the listener’s ear with melody and lush orchestrations. The score integrates a popular Italian song, and the story often warrants a lyrical touch. So even if the story is often horrific, it should sound bearable to opera-lovers tired of “modern” musical dissonance.

Francesca Zambello, internationally acclaimed director and longtime colleague of SFO General Director David Gockley, is also openly lesbian and married. Her comments at a recent press conference (not to mention glittering theatrical resume) confirm the appropriateness See page 23 >>

Bill Cooper/Royal Opera House

Bryan Hymel (Aeneas) in Hector Berlioz’s Les Troyens.

t

Books>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 23

Writers & artists in peril

by Brian Bromberger

Culture Crash: The Killing of the Creative Class

by Scott Timberg (Yale University Press, $26) ewspapers cut 40,000 jobs in the three years after 2008. There are now only two full-time staff dance critics in America. Jobs in architecture fell by 29.8% over three years after the market crash of 2008.

58% of artists surveyed whose work was shown in nonprofit spaces in New York said they received no compensation, not even for expenses. The sky is definitely falling for this Chicken Little, Scott Timberg, a cultural journalist/blogger, detailing in his new book Culture Crash how sweeping economic and social changes are imperiling artists, writers, musicians, architects, graphic designers, indeed any member of the creative class.

By creative class, Timberg is broadening urban studies theorist Richard Florida’s term to include whoever helps make or spread culture, whether it be authors, painters, bookstore or record-store clerks, disc jockeys, critics, publishers, any jobs that support the arts. Timberg’s thesis is that it has become almost impossible for many creative artists to earn a living. He not so subtly defines the crisis: “We are the bastard offspring of Reagan and Warhol, living in an age of creative destruction,” with many reduced to content serfs.

Timberg identifies two main culprits at the root of culture crash: the Internet, which has destroyed the music recording industry, newspaper publishing, and brick-and-mortar bookstores; and the economic downturn since the Great Recession of 2008, which has sharply reduced public spending on the arts, as well as made urban living difficult for struggling artists, endangering housing and healthcare access. Timberg is himself a bitter victim of this crisis, whose dream job as an arts reporter

N

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at the Los Angeles Times was eliminated when the paper was sold. He continued freelance writing, earning less money, striving to pay his mortgage, and eventually having to give up his home. Timberg provides heartbreaking profiles behind the grim statistics, of the painful human costs and unintended consequences for other creative-class members with no safety net.

Arguing that only the independently wealthy can engage in artistic pursuits, Timberg believes we are in the process of losing the cultural mainstream. The redefinition of art and its role in modern life is what is at stake for Timberg.

He identifies other forces abetting this cultural deterioration, such as market worship, corporate dominance, a tabloid pop-culture and anti-intellectual mindframe, and a winner-take-all mentality promoting #1 hits by a few celebrities, who monopolize mainstream music,

bestselling books, and popular films.

I suspect Timberg’s criticisms are generational, because with the Internet forcing artists to market themselves, younger people proficient in social media are at a distinct advantage. Timberg rhapsodizes about the book- or record-store clerk providing knowledge, networking, and even training grounds, now almost extinct.

But these people still exist, as bloggers and in chat rooms on the Web. Focusing on his hell-in-a-handbasket scenario, Timberg doesn’t provide any real solutions, outside of increasing government funding for the arts and boosting arts education in schools.

Still, Timberg’s pessimism about the value of culture in American society is wellfounded. For example, when the Louisville (KY) Orchestra went bankrupt, reader comments in the newspaper included, “Pack up your fiddles and go home, boys and girls.

Maybe find real jobs.” We are fortunate that the Bay Area has always been supportive of the arts, even providing a small portion of local tax revenue to fund creative institutions. But, as Timberg reminds us, soaring housing and cost-ofliving expenses have jeopardized the creative class here. Established artists are no longer able to afford living in SF. The sad truth is that creative artists in the US have often been denounced as dreamers, bohemians, or freeloaders, rather than the professionals many strive to be. Timberg makes the argument that our society cannot survive without artistic expression, but the technological revolution means continued upheaval in reinventing artistic success. I suspect it is too early to deliver a comprehensive post-mortem on creativity in America, but Timberg reminds us what the stakes are, how vital it is for the conversation to continue, and how critical the outcome.t

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From page 22

of choosing her for the assignment to Two Women.

The brutality of rape as a weapon of war and the ongoing atrocities committed against the women of today add contemporary punch to the story. Having Anna Caterina Antonacci taking on a role indelibly associated with the great Sophia Loren adds to the intriguing prospects of the theatrical production. Hell, if I have already compared her to Callas, it is a pretty safe bet to say she will equal Loren as Cesira, the Mother Courage extraordinaire. For a stretch of the run, Antonacci will be juggling roles as both Cassandra and Cesira. When asked about similarities between the parts, upon reflection she admitted a strong connection between the two women of the two operas. Zambello also sees the power of both characters, and is in agreement with the composer and conductor (SFO’s Nicola Luisotti) that this Two Women will contain a strong feminist message for the audiences of today.

Closing the summer season out, with a run beginning June 14 through July 5, is a return of the sturdily traditional SFO production of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro (Le Nozze di Figaro). It hasn’t been long since we got to revel in this wonderful music at the War Memorial Opera House (the new staging will also be simulcast at AT&T Park). Internationally admired bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni will be

BESTIES 20 15

THE LGBT BEST OF THE BAY

Without pride, it’s just a parade.

NotNotevery community turn simple down every community can turncan a simple strolladown Marketstroll Street into one of the world’s most extravagant displays diversity. Union Bankextravagant and KQED Market Street into one of theofworld’s most salute those the LGBT community—the activists and the educators, the displays ofindiversity.

Cory Weaver/San Francisco Opera

Anna Caterina Antonacci (Cesira) in Marco Tutino’s Two Women (La Ciociara).

singing the role of Count Almaviva instead of repeating his memorably sexy and intelligent portrayal of Figaro this time, and while I will miss his rather definitive touches, it will offer a chance to savor his range as a singing actor.

Besides, Philippe Sly will be making his role debut as the titular hero, and we can’t wait to see what he makes of the part. He already made

an exceptional splash at the SFO with his performances in Handel’s Partenope. Luscious soprano Nadine Sierra (exquisite in SFO’s La Boheme) plays the Countess to Pisaroni’s wandering hubby, but all will be brought to a happy ending by conductor Patrick Summers in director Robin Guarino’s revival of John Copley’s well-worn (in the best sense of the word) production.t

leaders and the heroes—who inspire us by being true to themselves, sharing that truth with others, and proving that the simple power of pride can not only The Bay Area Reporter salutes those who inspire us change minds—it can change the world.

by being true to them selves, sharing that truth with others, and proving that the simple power of pride can not only change minds, it can change the world.

Follow Us

Appear in our June 25, 2015 edition celebrating the historic 45th During LGBT Pride Month, Union Bank and KQED are 2012 LGBT Local Heroes—meet the honorees. anniversary celebrating of San Francisco Pride.

Learn more at: www.unionbank.com/LGBT

To reserve your space, please call 415.861.5019 or email advertising @ebar.com

ASIAN ART MUSEUM JUN 5–AUG 16, 2015 28 Chinese presents artwork from 28 of the most notable Chinese artists working today—from internationally acclaimed stars like Ai Weiwei to the newest generation of game changers like Liu Wei and Xu Zhen. The exhibition presents a multiplicity of perspectives and practices, including painting, photography, new media and breathtaking installation, like Zhu Jinshi’s Boat—a 40-foot creation you’re invited to walk through.

W W W. A S I A N A RT. O R G # 2 8 C H I N E S E

28 Chinese is organized by the Rubell Family Collection, Miami. Presentation at the Asian Art Museum is made possible with the generous support of China Art Foundation, Gorretti and Lawrence Lui, Silicon Valley Bank, The Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Fund for Excellence in Exhibitions and Presentations, Lucy Sun and Warren Felson, and an anonymous donor.

Media sponsor:

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Cocktail hour

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Paper moon

NIGHTLIFE

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DINING

Harder show

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PERSONALS Vol. 45 • No. 23 • June 4-10, 2015

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’ s e e r T n o e N

R E L TY NN GLE lors o c e u r t g his Showin

by Joshua Klipp

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yler Glenn’s story is straight out of The Book of Mormon, except for the part where the practicing Mormon became a big rock star as the lead singer for Neon Trees; and also the part where he came out as gay in a major Rolling Stone article published little more than a year ago.

See page 26 >> The colorfully dressed Tyler Glenn

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y t i r a l u p u P Innovative pet habitat crew at the 2014 Petchitecture gala.

Petchitecture’s pet party

by David-Elijah Nahmod

O

ne of the more festive of animal-friendly parties, Petchitecture, PAWS’ annual fundraising event, showcases innovative dog, cat and other pet habitats, all of which are auctioned off for the nonprofit at a gala affair.

See page 27 >>

{ THIRD OF THREE SECTIONS }

Kira Stackhouse www.nuena.com

Spring and summer mean later sunsets and later hours at the Asian Art Museum. We’re open ‘til 9 PM on Thursdays and for just $5 after 5 PM, you can spend an evening in our beautiful building enjoying the galleries, special exhibitions, fun talks, lively gatherings and intimate hangs with artists. On first Thursdays, there are even cash bars, DJs and more. For details, visit www.asianart.org/thursdays

AT THE ASIAN ART MUSEUM

$5 AFTER 5PM

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

26 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

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For the uninitiated, Neon Trees started playing back in 2005, and got their first big break opening for The Killers’ 2008 North American tour. Best known for hit songs, “Animal” and “Everybody Talks,” Neon Trees’ sound ranges from teen pop to synth-heavy new wave.

They’ve performed at Lollapalooza, on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and opened for bands ranging from Thirty Seconds to Mars to My Chemical Romance. They’ve even had a song on Glee. With every new album release –the band has released three full albums so far- Glenn’s look morphs from slick black Mohawk and leathers to closecropped platinum blonde and oversized Miami Vice-inspired pastel ensembles.

The thread of consistency is Glenn himself, writing stories into his music which, usually without being overt, are often his own.

“I want to be able to make songs that lift and are relevant to people’s lives,” says Glenn. “Fame is not the end goal,” but, he shyly admits, “I’d really like to play Saturday Night Live.”

On May 5, 2015, the group released a non-album single “Songs I Can’t Listen To,” which deserves an SNL spot if for no other reason than the tune’s impressive feat of reintroducing today’s teeny bop set to the echoes of ‘80s New Wave bands like Depeche Mode, New Order and Duran Duran.

The group’s tour, “An Intimate Night With Neon Trees” kicks off June 6, including June 9 at the historic Fillmore in San Francisco. Tyler is clear that his personal identity is part of the act.

“During the show, I pick a time and a place to talk about identity and how it applies to music. During the last two tours, I talked about [my sexuality] and got a very warm response. I kept it within the confines of the music though, because I am a musician and songwriter first, and never want to talk about things that don’t apply.”

The still-practicing Mormon admits that his relationship with the church has changed since coming out.

“It’s definitely gotten complicated,” says Glenn. “I don’t feel as comfortable, but it’s been interesting to live in Utah and watch the church change its stance slowly over the last few years [following Proposition 8].”

The colorful and dashing lead singer is currently in a relationship and relieved to finally be able to be open with his friends, family, and

importantly – his band mates.

“I didn’t struggle with my sexuality, it was more about who needed to know and how I was going to live my life. I wish I’d been a little braver in my early 20s. I wonder if I would have felt more secure, or if it would have affected the band’s success. I don’t know. I do know that I don’t regret [waiting to come out]. When I did it was the right time for me.”

He echoes for himself the same advice he offers LGBT youth.

“Come out when the time is right in your life, but definitely come out.

That’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself – it melded the two worlds that were fighting in my head.”

And his advice for musicians struggling up through today’s industry begins with a heavy sigh, “I’d like to say I have the answer to that, but it’s changed so much. So, just do your best shit and own it.”

On June 9, Glenn and the Neon Trees are going to do their best shit

and own it at The Fillmore.

And after the last song it played, the packed house of concert goers empties into the streets, and the final remnants of sweaty celebratory detritus are swept from the storied wood floors, Glenn will get back to work creating music that inspires him and others to be their most authentic selves.

He confesses, “I’d love to collaborate with Cyndi Lauper. I’d probably lose my mind getting to sing with her because her voice is insane, and she is a light, not only to me, but to the LGBT movement.

I think that would be a very cool opportunity.”t The Neon Trees play The Fillmore, Tuesday June 9. Doors 7pm, show 8pm. For tickets visit: www.fameisdead.com/tour/ Josh Klipp is a writer and band leader for The Klipptones.

Tyler Glenn in his mohawk phase onstage.

t

Read more online at www.ebar.com

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 27

Kira Stackhouse www.nuena.com

Canine canapes at last year’s Petchitecture gala.

Kira Stackhouse www.nuena.com

Dressed up dogs at the 2014 Petchitecture gala.

<<

Puplularity

From page 25

Since 1987 Pets Are Wonderful Support has been working to preserve the bond between vulnerable San Franciscans and their four-legged friends. When PAWS was first founded, the AIDS crisis was at its peak. Many of the dying had long since been rejected by their families for being gay, and their pets had become their families. Buying pet food, or taking a dog for a walk, could become a life-threatening challenge for a person on a fixed income who was facing a terminal illness.

PAWS, to the relief of many, stepped in to provide food, supplies, walks and vet care for people with AIDS and their pets.

“In 2000 we expanded our mission,” PAWS Executive Director Aaron Chandler said in an interview.

“We now serve people with any kind

PAWS client Felicia Elizondo.

of life threatening or debilitating illness, seniors and the disabled.”

Chandler said that PAWS clients were low-income city residents.

Of course it costs money to provide such services. PAWS raises its operating budget through donations from corporations, businesses and individuals. Then there’s Petchitecture, PAWS’ annual fundraising event.

“Local architecture and design firms design pet habitats that are put on display and put up for auction,” Chandler said, as he described the event. “All of the design work is completely volunteer.”

Of course cocktails will be served to the several hundred attendees that are expected.

“We start out with a cocktail reception, which is where the habitats are on display,” Chandler explained. “Music will be provided by the Turnaround Jazz Ensemble.

The evening’s displays will include dog houses which are decorated by

PAWS clients who are artists,” said Chandler.

Activities will include Ask the Vet with Dr. Feigenbaum.

PAWS Development Director Sarah Cramer explained the benefits of having a pet for people who are ill or disabled.

“A lot of our clients are socially isolated,” Cramer said. “They tend to have fewer people to turn to for emotional support. Their pets become their friends and family.”

Cramer pointed to studies which show actual medical benefits in having a pet.

“Lower blood pressure and an increased sense of well being,” she said. “There are definite health benefits in owning a pet.”

Felicia Elizondo, aka Felicia Flames, is a transgender community leader who can verify Cramer’s claims. Now 69 years old, the longtime HIV survivor has been a PAWS client for more than twenty years.

PAWS has helped Elizondo say goodbye to pets who have passed on, and continues to help her care for her current babies Gypsy Rose Lee and Simon.

“They give me emotional support and a reason to live and to move,” Elizondo said. “They keep me company when I am sick and when I am lonely. They are always there for me and we take care of each other.”

Elizondo said she was grateful to God for PAWS. “PAWS has been there for all of us,” she said.

Cramer pointed to another of PAWS’ vital services.

“We pay for cremation,” she said.

“It can be hard for people to honor their pets, so we have a partnership with Pet Rest Cemetery in Colma and with vets who provide in-home euthanasia.”

Attending Petchitecture, or even just donating to PAWS, is a great way to support these wonderful, life-affirming services.

Petchitecture takes place on Thursday June 11 at the Herbst Pavilion at the Fort Mason Center. It’s the event’s twentieth anniversary as well.t www.pawssf.org

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Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

28 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Competing in cocktail culture

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by Donna Sachet

P

atrik Gallineaux brought the Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic to San Francisco last Wednesday, specifically to Beatbox, decked out with promotional displays and an elaborate stage worthy of a national television set. Starting back in March, this is the largest and only annual LGBT international bartending competition, traveling to cities across the continent to find creative bartenders to compete at the finale in Key West on June 13.

Spirits were high as we co-emceed this event with Broadway star, television personality, and singer Jai Rodriguez.

The competition was colorful and mesmerizing, as bartenders from Beatbox, Beaux, OMG, Balancoire, and The Edge whipped up fancy cocktails for judges BeBe Sweetbriar, Nic Callahan, Brad Mendoza, and a particularly witty Liam Mayclem. The audience also got to sample all the creations, making for a very happy group, including Skye Paterson, Linda Lee, Louie Marco, Nicolas Bettinger, Ken Henderson, Ken Hamai, Norman Anderson, Joe Pessa, Andrew Leas, and Daye Caspar. We were entertained by musical performances by Leanne Borghesi, Jai Rodriguez, and Brian Kent with a special birthday song for Patrik Gallineaux. Although each bartender competed valiantly, the moment of truth finally arrived, and a three-way tie for third place was announced, essentially making every competitor a winner. Second place went to Roxy-Cotten Candy of The Edge, who had included a dazzling drag number in her competition. The first place winner was Matthew David Mello of Beaux, whose cocktail bubbled with fog and was garnished with a miniature pirate ship! He wins a weekend trip to Key West for the international finale coinciding with their Pride Celebration and Parade. Many of us continued the party back in the Castro, popping into Musical Wednesday at The Edge, Juanita More’s Bootycall at Q-Bar, and dancing at Badlands. What a night!

On Friday we joined the Positive Pedalers for a send-off party for AIDS Lifecycle at Hotel Whit-

Jai Rodriguez, Patrik Gaillineaux and Skye Paterson at the Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic.

Courtesy Stoli

Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic first place winner Matthew David Mello of Beaux.

comb. Hundreds of cyclers enjoyed a buffet dinner and drinks, incredible raffle prizes, and entertainment including SWAG, a small ensemble group of the SF Gay Men’s Chorus.

Among the crowd were Stephen Dorsey, Sean Ray, John Hemm, and executive firector of the SF AIDS Foundation Neil Giuliano. Moving personal testimonials from Carlos Urrutia, James Casad, Parker Trewin, and Greg Mahusay, and a new public service announcement made

by Adam Ouderkirk while Pos Pedalers’ “I Am Visible” slogan reminded us all of the importance of this annual ride, the significant money that it raises, and the lives it chang-

es. By the time you read this, thousands of AIDS Lifecycle riders will be well on their way to Los Angeles, many tired, some exhilarated, but all proud of this personal accomplishment and group effort.

Well, San Francisco Pride has officially begun with last Saturday’s kickoff party at Hotel Whitcomb, attended by hundreds of Pride supporters, several of the Grand Marshals and other honorees of the Pride Parade, and most of the Pride Board of Directors and staff. The ballroom was awash in the colors of the Pride Flag and the sounds of DJ Sergio Fedasz, and

Leanne Borghese and Liam Mayclem at the Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic.

never has a silent auction been so beautifully presented and so easy to use; thousands of dollars worth of prizes awaited bids. When respected auctioneer Lenny Broberg took the mic for the live auction, things really heated up, raising thousands of dollars within a few minutes. We were happy to co-emcee the evening with our co-host of the live iHeart Media television coverage of the Pride Parade for the past six years Michelle Meow, looking particularly dashing that night. Entertainment started with Cheer SF, then Leanne Borghesi, and finally an incredible burst of energy from the Bay Area’s own SambaFunk, complete with Brazilian-inspired costumes and a contagious rhythm that was hard to resist! Those enjoying this party included President of the Pride Board Gary Virginia, Colby Michaels, Deana Dawn, Lori Howes & Kit Tapata, Rick Hamer, Vaughn Miller, Cameron Stiehl, Marga Gomez, John Weber, Cuki Couture, Nick Hunter, and Jenny Twoblocksaway. The event ended with a fitting tribute to Fernando Robles, whose sudden death hangs over the community since the news began to spread that morning. His signature song was “Love is in the Air,” when paper napkins would fly into the air on the chorus, that night symbolizing the great joy he brought to all who knew him.

You might think that was enough for a Saturday night, but this intrepid columnist, in the interest of covering as many events as possible, dashed over to Beatbox in time for the new monthly dance party Served with DJ Escape and an energy-packed, crowd-pleasing performance by multi-hit diva Kristine W! Among friends Richard Sablatura, Jeff Doney, Johnny Razzaroli, Ky Martinez, Erin Lavery,

Mohammad Vahidy, Juan Martinez, Bevin Shamel, Cecil Russell, and BeBe Sweetbriar, we were truly served with incredible entertainment.

Tonight, the Clift Hotel celebrates 100 years with a VIP reception in the fabled Redwood Room. Any San Franciscan for even a few years has fond memories of evenings spent in that warm and welcoming space. We congratulate the Clift on such a rich history!

Friday and Saturday, the accomplished and dashing Spencer Day performs at Feinstein’s at the Nikko.

If you’ve heard him you won’t miss it; if you haven’t yet, you’ll be entranced by his vocal talent and stage presence.

Saturday night, we’ll be at the City Club of San Francisco to support the Margot Murphy Breast Cancer Program of Shanti at Double Down, a fun casino-style party. It’s never a gamble when you support the tireless work of Shanti.

Next week, don’t miss that unique annual fundraiser for Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS), Petchitecture, where you’ll see creative one-of-a-kind pet habitats and mix and mingle with fellow animal advocates. This year’s location is the Hyatt Regency Em-bark-adero.

And finally, plan now to attend the Imperial Court’s Mr. & Miss Gay San Francisco Pageant on Sun., June 21, 4-7 p.m. at SF Oasis. It’s not too late to enter the competition or simply come and support your favorite contestant. Mr. Gay SF Tyler Nelson and Miss Gay SF Kipper Snacks complete their successful year that night and promise an exciting Koney Island-themed event.

Much more about SF Pride in our next column; meanwhile, prepare to welcome the world on June 27 & 28!t

t

On the Tab>>

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 29

eOn the–Tabf June 4 11

★

Fri 5 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. $25-$160.

678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.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

Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun 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

Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland

Fri 5 Spencer Day @ Feinstein’s

S

ummer in San Francisco means layers; layers of fun, that is (and fleece). Stripes or plaids, earth tones or day-glo, enjoy the fabric of our nightlives.

Reisig Taylor

Thu 4 Barbary Coast Revue @ Balancoire The third season of the popular cabaret show returns, with Danny Kennedy as Mark Twain, a cast of diverse performers, and new guest performer Connie Champagne.

Thursdays weekly thru June. $14-$64.

8pm. 2565 Mission St. at 22nd. www.BarbaryCoastRevue.com

Bulge @ Powerhouse Grace Towers hosts the weekly gogotastic night of sexy dudes shakin’ their bulges and getting wet in their undies for $100 prize (contest at midnight), and dance beats spun by DJ DAMnation. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com

Fuego @ The Watergarden, San Jose Weekly event, with Latin music, halfoff locker fees and Latin men, at the South Bay private men’s bath house. $8-$39. Reg hours 24/7. 18+. 1010 The Alameda. (408) 275-1215. www.thewatergarden.com

Funny Fun @ Club 21, Oakland LGBT comedy night hosted by Dan Mires. $10. 8pm. 2111 Franklin St. Oakland. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Gym Class @ Hi Tops Enjoy cheap/free whiskey shots from jock-strapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular sports bar.

10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Homo Thursdays @ Qbar Franko DJs the weekly mash-up/ pop music night. No cover. 2 for 1 well drinks, 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.qbarsf.com

Karaoke Night @ Club BnB, Oakland Sing your heart out at the free lively night. 8pm-2am. 2120 Broadway.

(510) 759-7340. www.club-bnb.com

Mary Go Round @ Lookout Suppositori Spelling, Mercedez Munro and Holotta Tymes host the weekly night with DJ Philip Grasso, gogo guys, drink specials, and drag acts.

10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com

The Monster Show @ The Edge The weekly drag show continues, with gogo guys and hilarious fun. $5. 9pm2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

My So-Called Night @ Beaux Carnie Asada hosts a new weekly ‘90s-themed video, dancin’, drinkin’ night, with VJs Jorge Terez. Get down with your funky bunch, and enjoy 90cent drinks. ‘90s-themed attire and costume contest. No cover. 9pm-2am.

2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

The festive gogo-filled dance club, with host Lulu, features Latin pop dance hits with DJs Speedy Douglas Romero and Fabricio; no cover before 10pm. $6-$12. 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St., Oakland. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

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

Midnight Show @ Divas 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

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

David Sylvester (Two Dudes in Love) and Trevor Sigler (Sqrrrl) guest-spin, along with host/DJs Mark O’Brian and John Major (BAAAHS) at the Friends With Benefits night edition of the new groovy monthly first Fridays dance party. $10. 9pm-3am. 298 11th St. www.sfoasis.com

Nneka @ The New Parish, Oakland

Red Hots Burlesque @ Beatbox

Nap’s Karaoke @ Virgil’s Sea Room

The German/Nigerian modern soul singer-songwriter performs two nights as part of her new tour; Antique Naked Soul opens. $25-$30. 9pm.

Also June 5. 1743 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. (510) 444-7474. www.nnekaworld.com www.thenewparish.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

Sex & The City Live @ Oasis The popular drag parody performances of episodes from the HBO show about four Manhattan gal pals. $25 and up. Thu-Sat 7pm. Thru June 26. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 7953180. www.sfoasis.com

Thirsty Thursdays @ The Cafe Drink specials, Top 40, gogo studs and no cover. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Thursday Night Live @ SF Eagle Music with local and touring bands.

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. 11th anniversary night!! $4.

10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

VIP @ Club 21, Oakland Hip Hop, Top 40, and sexy Latin music; gogo dancers, appetizers, and special guest DJs. No cover before 11pm and just $5 after all night.

Dancing 9pm-3am. Happy hour 4pm8:30pm 2111 Franklin St. (510) 2689425. www.club21oakland.com

/lgbtsf

Polyglamorous @ Oasis

The saucy women’s burlesque revue’s weekend show; different musical guests each week. $10-$20. 7:30pm.

314 11th St. Also Wed nights at Oasis (298 11th St.). www.redhotsburlesque.com

Rock Fag @ Hole in the Wall Enjoy hard rock and punk music from DJ Don Baird at the wonderfully divey SoMa bar. 12pm-2am. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Some Thing @ The Stud Mica Sigourney and pals’ weekly offbeat drag performance night. 10pm2am. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com

Spencer Day @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko The smooth crooner performs at the intimate upscale cabaret nightclub. $40-$55 ($20 food/drink min.). 8pm.

Also June 6, 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 663-1063. www.spencerday.com www.ticketweb.com

Sat 6

Without pride, it’s just a parade.

Not every community can turn a simple stroll down Market Street into one

Bearracuda @ Beatbox The hairy fun invades the SoMa nightclub, with DJ Steve Sherwood. $10. 10pm-3am. 314 14th St. www. bearracuda.com www.beatboxsf.com

Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm.

1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

Notof every community turn a simple stroll the world’s most extravagantcan displays of diversity.

Union Bank anddown KQED Market Street of the world’s extravagant salute those in theinto LGBT one community—the activists andmost the educators, the leaders and heroes—who inspire us by being true to themselves, sharing displays ofthe diversity. that truth with others, and proving that the simple power of pride can not only can change thesalutes world. those who inspire us Thechange Bayminds—it Area Reporter by being true to them selves, sharing that truth with others, and proving that the simple power of pride can not only change minds, it can change the world.

Follow Us

Appear in our June 25, 2015 edition During LGBT Pride Month, Union Bank and KQED are celebrating the historic 45th celebrating 2012 LGBT Local Heroes—meet the honorees. anniversary of San Francisco Pride.

Learn more at: www.unionbank.com/LGBT

The classic leather bar’s most popular Sunday daytime event now also takes place on Saturdays. 3pm-6pm. 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

See page 30 >>

To reserve your space, please call 415.861.5019 or email advertising @ebar.com

<< On the Tab

30 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

<<

On the Tab

From page 29

La Bota Loca @ Club 21, Oakland DJed tunes, gogo hotties, drag shows, drink specials, all at Oakland’s premiere Latin nightclub and weekly cowboy night. $10-$15. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Get groovin’ at the weekly hip hop and R&B night at their new location. $8-$15. 9pm to 4am. 2120 Broadway.

(510) 759-7340. www.club-bnb.com

Go Bang @ The Stud Disco-tastic fun with DJs Steve Fabus and Sergio Fedazs. $5-$10. 9pm-3am.

399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

Mother @ Oasis

Thu 11 Peter Murphy @ DNA Lounge

Sun 7 Beer Bust @ Lone Star Saloon

Sex & Drags & Rock n Roll @ Midnight Sun

Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

Stuffed Queens @ El Rio LA’s Sex Stains headline a night of riot grrl queer loud punk, also with Porcelain, Garlika Stanx and Phatima Rude. 10pm-2am. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.com

Sugar @ The Cafe Dance, drink, cruise at the Castro club.

9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Sunday Brunch, Xtravaganza @ Balancoire

Gaymer Meetup @ Brewcade

Jason Brock performs, along with a DJed 80s dance music, at a fundraiser for the Mission nonprofit. $25. 7pm-12am. 3140 Mission St. www.facebook.com/ events/433965246762127/

Weekly live music shows with host Galilea and 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

The new weekly LGBT video game enthusiast night include 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

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

Heklina’s weekly drag show night at the fabulous renovated SoMa nightclub; plus DJ MC2 and guests. $10. 10pm-2am. 298 11th St. at Folsom. 795-3180. www.sfoasis.com

Mutha Chucka’s monthly drag show at the Castro bar, with BeBe Sweetbriar, Pristine Condition, Dulce De Leche, Miss Rahni and other talents. Show at 10:30pm. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Circulo de Vida @ Roccapulco

GlamaZone @ The Cafe

Club Rimshot @ Club BNB, Oakland

The ursine crowd converges for beer and fun. 4pm-8pm. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com The classic leather bar’s most popular Sunday daytime event in town draws the menfolk. 3pm-6pm. Now also on Saturdays! 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Big Top @ Beaux Joshua J.’s homo disco circus night, with guest DJs and performers, hotty gogo guys and drink specials. 9pm2am. 2344 Market St. www.BeauxSF.com

Brunch @ Hi Tops Enjoy crunchy sandwiches and mimosas, among other menu items, at the popular sports bar. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

t

Jock @ The Lookout The weekly jock-ular fun continues, with special sports team fundraisers.

DJed dance music 3pm-7pm. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com

Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room Donna Sachet hosts the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $45.

11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.starlightroomsf.com

Liquid Brunch @ Beaux No cover, no food, just drinks (Mimosas, Bloody Marys, etc.) and music. 2pm-9pm. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Irish Dance Night @ Starry Plough, Berkeley Weekly dance lessons and live music at the pub-restaurant, hosted by John Slaymaker. $5. 7pm. 3101 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. www.thestarryplough.com

Karaoke @ The Lookout Paul K hosts the amateur singing night. 8pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Morning After BBQ @ Oasis New weekly barbeque brunch on the newly opened rooftop deck, with Mimosas and Bloody Mary cocktails.

11am-3pm. 298 11th St. at Folsom.

795-3180. www.sfoasis.com

I L

Salsa Sundays @ El Rio Salsa dancing for LGBT folks and friends, with live merengue and cumbia bands; tapas and donations that support local causes. 2nd & 4th Sundays. 3pm-8pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550 Dance it up at the popular twiceweekly country-western night that includes line-dancing, two-stepping and lessons. $5. 5pm-10:30pm. Also Thursdays 6:30pm-10:30pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. at Industrial. www.sundancesaloon.org

Thu 4 Gym Class @ Hi Tops

The person depicte Steven Underhill

Mon 8 Cock and Bull Mondays @ Hole in the Wall Saloon Specials on drinks made with Cock and Bull ginger ale (Jack and Cock, Russian Mule, and more). 8pmclosing. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Drag Mondays @ The Cafe Mahlae Balenciaga and DJ Kidd Sysko’s weekly drag and dance night, 2014’s last of the year. 9pm-1am.

2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Epic Karaoke @ White Horse, Oakland

Sat 6 Sex & Drags & Rock n Roll @ Midnight Sun Steven Underhill

Mondays and Tuesdays popular weekly sing-along night. No cover.

8:30pm-1am. 6551 Telegraph Ave, (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com

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

Mash Up Mondays @ Club BnB, Oakland Weekly Karaoke and open mic night; RuPaul’s Drag Race screenings, too.

9pm-2am. 2120 Broadway. (510) 7597340. www.club-bnb.com

Monday Musicals @ The Edge Sing along at the popular musical theatre night; also Wednesdays. 7pm2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing.

4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Name That Beat @ Toad Hall BeBe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly musical trivia challenge and drag show. 8:30-11:30pm. 4146 18th St. at Castro. www.toadhallbar.com

t

On the Tab>>

No No Bingo @ Virgil’s Sea Room

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 31

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s

Retro Night @ 440 Castro

Mica Sigourney and Tom Temprano cohost the wacky weekly game night at the cool Mission bar. 8pm. 3152 Mission St. www.virgilssf.com

Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One-drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Jim Hopkins plays classic pop oldies, with vintage music videos. 9pm-2am.

44 Castro St. www.the440.com

Opulence @ Beaux

Ink & Metal @ Powerhouse

New weekly dance night, with Jocques, DJs Tori, Twistmix and Andre. 9pm-2am.

2344 Market St. beauxsf.com

Performerama @ Oasis Marga Gomez presents another edition of her lesbian-film parody piece, Pound, along with real pound cake for her birthday, plus Wonder Dave, and DJed music. $10-$12. 8pm.

298 11th St. www.sfoasis.com

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. dragatmartunis.com

Show off your tattoos and piercings at the weekly cruisy SoMa bar night.

10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhousebar.com

KQED Pride Party @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko Baruch Hernandez hosts a night of spoken word, comedy, music and drag performances by Michelle Tea, Sandra O Noshi Didn’n, Sevan Kelee, Tamale Ringwald, Irene Tu, Jade Way and Natasha Muse. 7pm-9pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. Free/RSVP: www.eventbrite.com/e/will-youmarry-me-tickets-16732907577

I am the future of the LGBT community.

I’m gay.

I’m 20 years old. I’m out to my parents. I love parties, the beach, and believe it or not, sports. I have a boyfriend, and we like to laugh at dumb online videos.

But I also read the news. I care about the planet. I’m studying Engineering at college. I voted in the last election and and I campaign for marriage equality.

Someday I might want to have kids.

I am the future of the LGBT community. And I read about that future every day on my smart phone. Because that’s where I want it to be.

Switch @ Q Bar Weekly women’s night at the stylish intimate bar. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

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

Thu 11

Peter Murphy @ DNA Lounge

Funny Fun @ Club 21, Oakland

The former front man for Bauhaus performs his solo work. In Letter Form, and Richard Thorne open. DJ Decay. $30 and up. 8pm. 375 11th St. www.dnalounge.com

Weekly LGBT and straight comedy night hosted by Dan Mires. $10. 8pm.

2111 Franklin St. Oakland. (510) 2689425. www.club21oakland.com

Jeremy Jordan @ Feinstein’s at the Nikko

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

The Tony-nominated musical theatre actor-singer (Newsies) and TV star (Smash) returns with his popular cabaret concert. $70-$85 ($20 food/ drink min.). 8pm. Also June 12, 8pm.

June 13 & 14, 7pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 663-1063. www.jeremy-jordan.com www.ticketweb.com

Underwear Night @ Club OMG

The Monster Show @ The Edge

Una Noche @ Club BnB, Oakland

Weekly underwear night includes free clothes check, and drink specials; different hosts each week. $3. 10pm2am. Preceded by Open Mic Comedy, 7pm, no cover. 43 6th St. www.clubomgsf.com

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

Tue 9 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

Bombshell Betty & Her Burlesqueteers @ Elbo Room The weekly burlesque show of women dancers shaking their bonbons includes live music. $10. 9pm. 647 Valencia St. 552-7788. www.elbo.com

Cock Shot @ Beaux Shot specials and adult Bingo games, with DJs Chad Bays and Riley Patrick, at the new weekly night. No cover. 9pm2am. 2344 Market St. beauxsf.com

Gay Skate Night @ Church on 8 Wheels LGBT night at the former Sacred Heart Church-turned disco roller skate party space, hosted by John D. Miles, the “Godfather of Skate.”

Actually, every night is gay-friendly, including Saturday’s Black Rock night (Burning Man garb encouraged). Also Wed, Thu, 7pm-10pm. Sat afternoon sessions 1pm-2:30pm and 3pm5:30pm. $10. Kids 12 and under $5.

Skate rentals $5. 554 Fillmore St at Fell. www.churchof8wheels.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

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre Strip down as the strippers do as well. $20. 8pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 3976758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Want your nightlife event listed?

Email events@ebar.com, at least two weeks before your event.

Event photos welcome.

Wed 10 Booty Call @ QBar Juanita More! and her weekly intimate –yet packed– dance party. $10-$15. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.qbarsf.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

Board Pride Party @ LGBT Center Meet and mingle with Center’s board and supporters; music, tours, a silent acution, food and cocktails. $25-$100.

6pm-9pm. 1800 Market St. www.sfcenter.org

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

Thu 11

Open Mic/Comedy @ SF Eagle

Jeremy Jordan @ Feinstein’s

Kollin Holts hosts the weekly comedy and open mic talent night. 6pm-8pm.

398 12th St. www.sf-eagle.com

Pussy Party @ Beaux Weekly women’s happy hour, with allwomen music and live performances, 2 for 1 drinks, and no cover. 5pm9am. 2344 Market St. www.beauxsf.com

Weekly LGBT and friends skate night, with groovy disco music and themed events. $9. 8pm-10:30pm. 1303 Main Street, Redwood City. www.rainbowskate.net www. facebook.com/rainbowskating/

Red Hots Burlesque @ Oasis Underwear Night @ 440

Weekly electro music night with DJ Matthew Baker and guests. 9pm-2am.

6551 Telegraph Ave, (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com

The dearly missed Cookie Dough’s weekly drag show continues, with themed events and cute gogo guys. $5. 9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Rainbow Skate @ Redwood Roller Rink

ed here is a model. Their image is being used for illustrative purposes only.

Thump @ White Horse, Oakland

The weekly women’s sexy strip show, with special guests Barnaby’s Babes (male burlesque dancers). $15-$25.

8:30pm-11:30pm. 298 11th St. at Folsom. www.sfoasis.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. Check out the new expanded front window lounge. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 8614186. 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 4 Barbary Coast Revue @ Balancoire

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

32 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

Chris Harder The porn pup on sex, dancing, burlesque and NYC clubs

t

by Cornelius Washington

W

ith a refined physicality and a body hair pattern for which gay men would hock their souls, Chris Harder is a part of the new wave of gay male sensuality and erotica. He brings a versatility that has been sorely lacking in erotica for a very long time. The Nob Hill Theater has him, and it was my pleasure to interview him. Here’s how it went.

Cornelius Washington: Permanent gay porn burlesque venues in New York City are dead. The Nob Hill Theater is the nation’s first (and will probably be the last standing). Are you aware of its rich history? What will you bring to the NHT stage that will make you stand out?

Chris Harder: I didn’t realize the Nob was the nation’s first porn theater, which makes me even more excited to be a part of its heritage and, uh, leave my mark on the stage! As far as my show goes, I’ve always been a bit of a “show man.”

My background is acting and I work in New York City as a stripper and gogo dancer, so I’m definitely familiar with working a crowd. So, fans and audiences can expect an up close and personal show.

How do you think you’ll feel when you see your name on the NHT marquee and, later, when you see your scenes 30x40, as you perform?

Really flattered... and maybe turned on? During the show I want to be concentrating on the audience, so hopefully I won’t get distracted watching one of my scene partners plow me on-screen!

I’ve noticed a new wave of pulled-together, fully-integrated versatile men entering the adult film scene. What do you see that’s missing when you watch porn?

I don’t think I necessarily feel something is missing from porn right now. I will say that I think it’s obvious when guys have little to no chemistry on film. I love a variety of porn and scenes; I think one area that’s diminished somewhat is longer, plot-driven films. Granted, I realize not everyone watches porn for the “plot,” but I’m really interested in producing work that combines hardcore fucking with stronger plot lines and scripts.

Chris Harder

What do you look for in a porn star?

I think lots of guys look like porn stars. In my mind though, a “star” in the sex world also has to A: show up on set ready to work and wanting to make the best product possible, and, B: actually enjoy sex! That’s definitely not always the case.

What do you look for in a porn director?

I’ve worked with a lot of amazing directors (Jake Jaxson, Marc Macnamara, mr. Pam, Nick Foxx, Anthony Duran...). When you

TimeOut

Sherry Vine with Chris Harder at the Harder-Wood Revue at NYC’s Headquarters.

shoot or “perform” sex, I think you have to be able to both understand how it works “technically” (camera angles, lighting, close-ups, etc.). But you also need to realize it’s still an organic process. So, I think a great director understands how to film and produce a sex scene/film, but, also gets that the sex, itself, needs as relaxed an environment as possible and that the performers ultimately need to feel comfortable with what they’re being asked to do (positions, intensity, duration...). And all of the directors I’ve worked with are funny! Half the time, I’m laughing in between takes, which also helps encourage improving a new position or set-up.

You’ve filmed many scenes with CockyBoys. Their scenes always look so naturally sensual and unaffected. What is the secret to their success in pairing their models, and how important is that to the success of the scene?

I think everything I said above definitely applies to Cocky Boys.

The environment they set up for the performers is, again, extremely professional and organic. And RJ Sebastian is just a wonderful photographer and cameraman, and also really funny. It’s definitely really important to have chemistry with your partner and CockyBoys go out of their way to make sure you want to perform together.

However, even then that chemistry doesn’t always happen. At those times, that’s when the “work” aspect of sex work kicks in, at least for me.

Being able to separate “work” sex from “me” sex helps me get through those days, though. And, hopefully, great chemistry or not, you have an amazing editor who just knows how to make the sex literally “look hot.”

See page 34 >>

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Read more online at www.ebar.com

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 33

Paper Cuts

by John F. Karr

I

was passably entertained by a visit to the website of filmmaker Toby Ross. Among his stuff are small files of vintage photos, like “Big Dick,” “Ginger Studs,” and “Erotic Art” (most of it purloined from Harry Bush). But my favorite, in title if not skimpy content, is “Hot Jews.” I’ll testify to that. Nothing beats a hot Jew. I wasn’t at all entertained by Mr. Ross’ new film, Paper Dreams. If Ross needs to keep himself busy in his old age, he should get a hobby, like whittling cocks from driftwood.

He’s only tarnishing his own reputation by regurgitating old stuff he probably dug out of a musty box down in the basement.

Paper Dreams purports to be “A Documentary about the Golden Age of Male Erotic Magazines 19661972.” But soon as it starts, Ross announces that turned out to be too broad a subject, and his movie turned into “a loving look back at our entire sexuality, bar none.” And doesn’t that sound like a more easily contained topic. Ross says he’s going to survey life styles and social changes, told via magazines, films and “my juiciest experiences and interviews.”

As far as documentaries go, however, Paper Dreams is all old news.

Everything in it has been covered before, and covered so much better.

Much of the film footage and photographs have the fuzzy and unfocused look of a seventh-generation VHS copy, and Ross’ narration roams around as it delivers clichés, platitudes and erroneous information.

As far as interviews, to speak about the arrival and effect of the physique magazine era, his expert is a volunteer at Los Angeles’s Gay Archives, who gushes about how he found the mags on a newsstand and masturbated over them.

And commenting on the arrival of cock shots, when nudity was legalized in 1989, Ross says, “These naked boys were the pallbearers of a new regime.”

Uh, excuse me, it’s the old regime that needs ushering out. One thing Ross does get right, is noting that as filmed porn became more plentiful and accessible, physique photography of greater aspiration was replaced by magazines of movie stills.

I got a good laugh from the cover shot of a magazine called, The Intruder, which shows a thief straddling a window sill as he climbs into a bedroom. With one hand, he brandishes a gun. And with the other, he brandishes the cock hanging out of his fly.

Ross shocked me when he illustrated a talk about the era’s depiction of interracial sex with a magazine titled, Nigger Lover. And he spends considerable time on the representation of teenage, and younger, boys.

A huge network of chicken hawks

Paper Dreams box cover

/lgbtsf A California Golden Guy; that was J. Brian’s territory.

evolved, only to finally be busted by a raid on the offices of a magazine called DOM, which stood for Dirty Old Men. I think this discussion is included because it leads into Ross’ personal interest in younger men, and his success in portraying them in his own mags and movies, like High School Fantasies and Reflections of Youth.

Ross liked wayward kids, scrawny and scruffy. He was ultimately superseded by J. Brian, who marketed Cal-

Paper Dreams documents the disappearance of studio photography…

ifornia Golden Boys—blond, sunny and smiling. Perhaps they weren’t muscled, but they were several notches up the attractiveness range.

Sad to say, with its non-revelatory narration, its numerous slide shows of photos that frequently don’t apply to the narrative they accompany, and its dependence on the AMG films we already know pretty well, Paper Dreams isn’t much to recommend.t

… as mass produced, less polished work took over.

Serving the LGBT communities since 1971

34 • BAY AREA REPORTER • June 4-10, 2015

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Chris Harder

From page 32

How do you prepare for a scene (physically, mentally, emotionally)?

Well, I’d tell you about all my physical preparation, but I still want people to come to my show! Seriously though, it’s important for me to work out consistently and the week of a shoot, I really try to focus on getting my workouts in, eating as “clean” as possible, and sleeping enough. And like I mentioned, I try to remember that what I’m shooting is a product. I want to go in with the best attitude and I want to have great chemistry (and really hot sex) with my partner. If for some reason the “magic” isn’t there, though, I remind myself that this is a performance and no matter what, I’ve got to sell it.

What is your porn vs. private sexuality?

Actually, the sex I have on camera is pretty identical to the sex I have in private, minus the cameras and lighting and you know, the crew, unless, of course, it’s an orgy. I consider myself a versatile guy so I top more on my down time. I also like a variety of guys, so not everyone I sleep with off-camera needs to have a “porn body.” I think when I’m just having sex for me, I still try to have a bit of a connection with the guy I’m with. I could never see him again, but, I do have to like him.

What do you wish that tops (in porn and in real life) understood about working with versatile and/ or bottom men?

I think a good top just understands that when he puts his dick up someone’s butt, there usually needs to be a brief period of, uh, “adjustment” before the sex can take off.

Obviously, that becomes even more important with really hung guys.

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Interestingly enough, some of the best sex I’ve had has been with “monster tops” like Rafael Alencar or Diesel Washington, simply because they know what to do with their dicks! The times I’ve walked off set sore from a shoot are usually actually from regular-sized dicks whose owners just thought jabbing = fucking.

Other than the obvious, when shooting scenes, which body parts receive the most strenuous workouts?

Legs! Whether you’re topping or bottoming, the legs always seem to burn the most after a day’s shoot.

Many gay men suffer from “the heartbreak of asslessness.” Please give the planet some tips on how to maintain the “perfect” booty, the kind of which any selfrespecting homo would be proud.

Don’t neglect leg day! And don’t run your butt away! And eat.

What’s the first thing you notice on a man?

Eyes and jaw line.

I’ve read about your forays into photography. Who’s your fantasy celebrity and/or athlete photography subject?

One project I’ve had in the back of my mind is to start photographing fans, especially my female fans, in their home environments. I love taking nude photos of men, but I’m also really drawn to “photo stories.” I want to know the stories behind my fans.

As a photographer, what do you think is the difference between erotica and photography?

I don’t think there’s a difference, actually. I think a good photo is a good photo because it’s not just the subject and it’s not just the technical aspects of getting the shot. It’s both. A lot of people, both in and outside the sex industry, get hung up on the “is it art or is it porn?” question. To me, it’s a product, one that can have a huge artistic value to its creator or consumer, but, something that’s also created to be consumed. Even Grace Coddington of Vogue magazine is quoted in her autobiography (Grace) saying that she doesn’t necessarily think fashion photography is art because the photo

Falcon Studios

Chris Harder is a stand-up bottom with Brent Corrigan in Vegas Hustle.

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ultimately has to sell the clothing. I think the same is true for porn and sex work. A photo or scene can be “hot,” or “sexy,” or “beautiful,” but, we’re all there creating it so that people will not only enjoy it, they’ll buy it.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure (food, shopping, etc.)?

I think the best meal is the first meal after a porn scene! So, I usually let myself splurge. Sweet potato fries are a guilty pleasure; so are milk shakes. And I also really just love to read. If I have a long flight or subway commute, I love to just clear my head and read a book.

Who is your favorite costume and/or fashion designer? What would you have them create for you?

My favorite designers are also my friends and people I’ve worked with in nightlife. I love Bradley Callahan’s label BCALLA (www.bcalla.com) and his insane Spandex body harnesses; my burlesque friend, “Mr. Gorgeous” Eric Gorsuch (www.gorgeousboylesque.com) makes incredibly sexy hot pants and mesh underwear for me; and my friend, David “Debs” Quinn (www.davidquinnnewyork. com), costumes and dresses burlesque dancers around the world in these huge, elaborate gowns.

Who is your favorite choreographer?

I’m not that well-versed in dance actually--I’ve always gotten by with a lot of smiling and ass-shaking! I think that’s, again, what makes me more of a “performer” or entertainer, than an “actor” or “dancer.” I just sell the shit out of something until people believe me. But, I love the dance company Pilobolus (dancers everywhere roll their eyes) and the choreographer/dancer Jenny Rocha of NYC never ceases to amaze me with her contemporary dances. I

To place your Personals ad, Call 415-8615019 think she can dance any style and, again, sell it so amazingly well.

What are your thoughts and opinions about creating a nightlife blog on NYC’s happenings?

Well, you can actually read mine here: www.chrisharderfilms.com What is the hottest event in New York City?

Hands down, Frankie Sharp’s Westgay at The Westway. It is my favorite party to work and dance at.

It’s queer, it’s sexy, it’s open to everyone and it’s still packed with really hot (and oversexed) NYC guys.

Everyone comes to Westgay, from fledgling drag performers to RuPaul greats, to uptown Hell’s Kitchen studs to Brooklyn bearded boys.

What are your thoughts on “bottom stigma”?

Just do what you feel comfortable with. If you like to bottom, bottom.

If you want to top, top. It doesn’t define you and really, for myself, I don’t want to “choose” one position or another. I don’t want to restrict myself from having a sexual experience.

Barebacking: pro or con?

Instead of people constantly asking me about my thoughts on barebacking, I think it might be more conducive for them to ask, “Why isn’t there a set industry standard of testing that all studios agree to follow?” That way all models, positive and negative, could feel respected, safe, and informed and just focus on the day’s work on set.t Follow Chris Harder at www. chrisharderfilms.com and https:// twitter.com/chrisharderxxx Chris Harder performs at the Nob Hill Theatre, June 12 & 13. $25.

8pm & 1pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell.

397-6758. thenobhilltheatre.com

t

Read more online at www.ebar.com

June 4-10, 2015 • BAY AREA REPORTER • 35

G

o Bang!, the first Saturdays monthly disco night at The Stud, features DJs Steve Fabus, Prince Wolf and Sergio Fedasz, spinning the classics in a new way. The next Go Bang is June 6. $10 (free before 10pm). 9pm-3am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com 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.

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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

Brian had his HIV under control with medication. But smoking with HIV caused him to have serious health problems, including a stroke, a blood clot in his lungs and surgery on an artery in his neck. Smoking makes living with HIV much worse. You can quit.

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HIV alone didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cause the clogged artery in my neck.

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