San Francisco Bay Times - February 22, 2018

BAY TIMES S

A

N

F

R

A

N

C

I

S

C

O

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2018) February 22–March 7, 2018 | sfbaytimes.com

Dan Ashley & Melissa Etheridge

ROCK the CASA

Rock the CASA 2018 benefits these organizations:

SEE PAGES 15–17

In the News Compiled by Dennis McMillan Mayor Mark Farrell Speaks Out Concerning Florida High School Shooting “We cannot accept gun violence anymore. We cannot allow Republicans in Congress to stick their heads in the sand while people die in our schools, businesses and homes. We cannot continue to elect off icials who are beholden to special interests, not the public,” said San Francisco Mayor Mark Farrell last week, after the mass shooting on February 14 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. He continued, “We cannot follow a hypocritical President who blames this issue on behavioral issues, while simultaneously rolling back regulations on mental health background checks.” He said he was angry, as are people across America. “We need to demand change to fundamentally flawed laws that allow these acts to occur. In our City, we will continue to champion common sense gun control law that keep our public safe.” Farrell concluded, “We hope Congress follows our lead—because we need action now!” sfgov.org/ Supervisor Stefani Introduces Free Speech Protection Act In light of so many mass shootings in America, it seems especially prescient that at a February 13 meeting of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, Supervisor Catherine Stefani introduced the “Free Speech Protection Act” that would ban firearms at publicly-owned parks, public gatherings and similar events in San Francisco. “The Second Amendment doesn’t Trump the First Amendment,” explained Supervisor Stefani.

“Your right to free speech should not be endangered by people carrying guns.” While State law prohibits the open carrying of firearms within San Francisco, concealed weapons present a significant public safety risk at public events, protests, parades and rallies, she said. Publicly carrying firearms while people are engaged in first amendment activity can intimidate others and chill, or suppress, free speech. Stefani says her law seeks to promote the public health and safety of all San Franciscans by reducing the presence of firearms and the potential for gun violence, injuries and death. She noted that her law would help to increase expressive activity and civic engagement because it would drastically reduce the chances of people being intimidated by the presence of concealed f irearms at public events. sfgov.org Mayor Farrell and Supervisor Ronen Announce Ordinance Requiring All-Gender Bathrooms in SROs Mayor Mark Farrell, the SF Board of Supervisors, and the Off ice of Transgender Initiatives have passed a City ordinance that requires all-gender, single-stall bathrooms be made available in Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotels. Many transgender and nonconforming individuals live in SRO hotels in San Francisco. Providing all-gender bathrooms creates a comfortable and safe environment in these facilities. According to a national study, 59 percent of transgender respondents said they avoided gender-specific bathrooms—for fear of harassment. On February 13, the Board of Supervisors passed the all-gender restroom ordinance, which requires that single-stall bathroom facilities be available for every resident, regardless of their gender identity. Additionally, the ordinance requires that signage be posted indicating the new requirements. On February 14, Mayor Farrell, who cosponsored the bill, signed the ordinance into law. sfgov.org

San Francisco Pride Announces Public Voting for 2018 Community Grand Marshals The San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Pride Celebration Committee has announced the 2018 slate of nominees for public vote for Community Grand Marshal. Annually, the general public votes for both an individual and an organization to be honored at the parade and celebration, which are held the last weekend in June. Voting is live and will continue until 12 noon on Wednesday, March 7. The 2018 nominees for Community Grand Marshal represent a diverse group of individuals and organizations that have, through their work, art, advocacy, and volunteerism, contributed to the strength and vitality of LGBTQ communities in the Bay Area. “We are lucky to live in a time and place where we are surrounded by so many impressive, inspirational individuals and organizations,” said SF Pride Executive Director, George F. Ridgely, Jr. “Every year it is challenging to narrow the ballot to 15 candidates.”

There are two ways the public can cast ballots: in person at the SF Pride office, 30 Pearl Street, 4th Floor, or online at sfpride.org/grand-marshals Rally Held After CA Sues SF for Discriminating Against Transgender Woman The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing f iled a lawsuit alleging that the City of San Francisco discriminated against Transgender Law Center (TLC) client Tanesh Nutall when a City employee unlawfully denied her access to the women’s restroom and called her offensive slurs because she is transgender. An employee of the City’s Office of Citizen Complaints, an agency supposed to advocate for City residents, blocked Nutall from using the women’s bathroom, calling her a “f--ing man” and a “f---ing freak.” She came to Transgender Law Center for support. TLC filed discrimination complaints on her behalf with the San Francisco Human Rights Commission and the Department of Fair Employment and Housing. Recently, after two years of trying to get justice from the City and dealing with the emotional fallout from the harassment and discrimination she faced, the State of California brought a lawsuit on her behalf against the City of San Francisco. At a rally for her on February 20 in front of City Hall, spokespersons noted that the lawsuit is a huge step, but there is still a long road ahead for Nutall. TLC said they will be there all the way supporting her. Demonstrators sent messages of love for Nutall. transgenderlawcenter.org Former Patio Cafe in Castro to Reopen as Hamburger Mary’s This March, the space that used to be the Patio Cafe at 531 Castro Street will become Hamburger Mary’s. The original Hamburger Mary’s used to be located at 1586 Folsom Street from 1972–2001. The very most original was a chain in Hawaii. All of these have been advertised as LGBTQfriendly restaurants. Property owner Les Natali had closed the Patio Cafe in 1999. Natali is also owner of Toad Hall and Badlands—both gay bars in the Castro neighborhood. hoodline.com GGBA President Meets Canadian Prime Minister Just in Trudeau Golden Gate Business A ssociation (GGBA) and LGBT community leaders, worked with key members of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus’s team when they were pre-

paring for his recent whirlwind trip to San Francisco. GGBA President Dawn Ackerman was invited to attend a meeting with key business leaders on Friday, February 9, with one of the world’s most respected sitting Heads of State at the iconic Fairmont Hotel. “The experience was remarkable, “ said Ackerman. “He is unbelievably inspiring, thoughtful and a true visionary. When I f irst heard his speech to the Canadian Parliament on November 28, 2017, where he addressed, head on, the discrimination of LGBTQ individuals at the hands of the Canadian government, I knew that this was a man of amazing integrity.” She said meeting the Prime Minister was “a truly significant experience for me. As I looked him in the eyes and thanked him for his apology on behalf of the United States’ LGBTQ community, my eyes began to tear and so did his.” Ackerman concluded, “He is the kind of leader our community and the world needs at a time when the entire globe is facing unprecedented challenges.

We look forward to expanding upon this interaction in the near future for the benefit of all.” ggba.com Harvey Milk Plaza Community Feedback Sought The Friends of Harvey Milk Plaza (FHMP) is a Castro neighborhood organization with the stated purpose of “maintaining and improving the public space named in honor of the civil rights icon.” The organization invites the public to join the conversation concerning the plaza’s future.

Its website is informative, providing the latest information from the architects, Perkins Eastman, who won FHMP’s Design Competition. The next community meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 3, from 3–4:30 pm at Most Holy Redeemer Parish Hall in the Castro at 100 Diamond Street. A second meeting will be offered April 7. friendsofharveymilkplaza.org Castro Hotel to Replace Bite Me Sandwich Shop On March 1, a proposal will be made to the SF Planning Commission to tear down the location of Bite Me Sandwiches on 4230 18th Street and Diamond and turn it into a 4-story, 12-room edifice to be known as Hotel Castro with a restaurant on the ground f loor. In a recent meeting, Castro Merchants President Daniel Bergerac said he approved of the plans as an excellent tourist draw.

But some have shown concern that, because the planned boutique hotel has no off-street parking or loading zones, there is a potential impact on parking in an already over-crowded location. Sponsors counter-argue that most customers would arrive by public transportation, taxis or carhailing services. hoodline.com Beer Garden Planned for Castro Neighborhood Black Hammer Brewing, a South of Market based brewery and tasting room founded in 2012, plans to open an indoor beer garden in the Castro at the Duboce apartment building located at Sanchez and Market Streets.

Next to a Public Notice of Application to Sell Alcoholic Beverages, the owners have taped up a sign saying “Willkommen,” which translates in German to “Welcome!” The friendly sign is appropriate for an establishment that intends to be a German biergarten selling their crafted beers, wine, and food. hoodline.com S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

5

corresponding behaviors that manifest in the most selfish and deviant of ways.

It is inconceivable for me to see someone in pain or in need, and not to do something, anything, to help. That is why I am, as I know many are, at a loss for words when I learn about another mass shooting, the latest in Parkland, Florida. My immediate internal response is to say, “What can I do?” Unfortunately, the empathy I feel is quickly eclipsed by my frustration, anger, and disbelief over our inability and/or unwillingness to solve this particular societal ill in a way that protects and preserves the rights of the second amendment, while keeping our streets and schools safe from harm.

Moving People Forward Brett Andrews I grew up in Pennsylvania, and was raised in a home that was moderately religious, had solid values, and a bent for manners and politeness. It was quite common to hear folks in my town extending their condolences or offering prayers of support and encouragement to someone experiencing diff iculty. What also came with those thoughts and prayers were good deeds in the form of a covered dish of food, or groceries, an offer to babysit, a listening ear and a supportive shoulder, and sometimes just straight-out money to help get someone through a rough patch.

These gestures—great and small— were merely expressions of shared and abiding community values, knowing that any moment we could find ourselves in a similar situation. In many ways, I feel that the collective values of caring for our fellow man have waned, and have been replaced with an environment of scarcity and fear; one with a developing thought and

My way of making some sense of it all is to accept the fact that there is simply a lack of will, from many sides. The question I pose, given the profound and lasting impacts of Parkland, Orlando, Sandy Hook, Virginia Tech, and the Las Vegas shootings, among so many others, is under what set of circumstances will it take for lawmakers and gun rights activists to come together and address the issue, once and for all?

Applying broad-brush reasoning that all of these shooters have a mental health issue is basically conceding that all you have is a hammer in your toolbox, and that these tragic and unconscionable acts are just a nail.

While I have no clear understanding of how many shooters suffered from mental illness, I do know that 100% of them had a gun, most semi-automatic—that is indisputable. For anyone who has a fundamental understanding of probability and statistics, it is glaringly clear: that percentage has statistical significance. So, let’s start the conversation right there.

It has been said that the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. I fear that is where we find ourselves at this moment. Thoughts and prayers are simply not enough. They have to be matched with deeds. And those deeds need to be courageous and untethered by unhealthy and uninformed protectionism, blind political ambition, and the oppression and stasis of learned helplessness.

Brett Andrews is the Chief Executive Director of PRC (http://positiveresource.org/Default.aspx), which is the only place for people living with HIV/AIDS or mental health disabilities to get comprehensive benefits counseling and employment services in San Francisco. Andrews is a member of the San Francisco HIV/AIDS Provider Network, the San Francisco Human Services Network and the Mayor’s CBO Taskforce.

He additionally serves on the Board of the National Working Positive Coalition.

SENATE BILL 1 Offers Opportunities for California’s Small Businesses Senate Bill 1 (SB1) will provide $54 billion in transportation funding over the next 10 years for both state and local roads. This is an opportunity for small business participation on planning and public works projects with local and state transportation agencies.

Caltrans is hosting workshops throughout the state on “How to Do Business with Caltrans”, “Prime Contracting”, and “Subcontracting”.

As well as hosting Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification workshops.

Roughly $5.4 billion will be allocated annually for projects on the State Highway System, Local Roadway repair, State Bridges and Culverts, Active Transportation, Trade Corridor Enhancements, Congested Corridors, Local Planning Grants, Matching Funds and Public Transit.

Small Business is Big Business for Caltrans Contracting.

Don’t miss your chance to learn of bidding and certification opportunities. For workshop information: www.dot.ca.gov/hq/bep/calendar2.htm For more information on SB1: rebuildingca.ca.gov

6

SA N F RANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Another Mass Shooting; Now Can We Have Stricter Gun Control?

Well-Behaved Women Seldom Make History Louise “Lou” Fischer In November of last year, I wrote a column in which I shared my background in competitive recreational shooting while at the same time calling for stricter gun control (sfbaytimes.com/enough-already-needstricter-gun-control/). At that time, I was heartbroken by the increase in mass shootings and could no longer accept the wishy-washy “thoughts and prayers” offered by the NRA and other opponents of gun control. I even said that I “hoped and prayed” we would not have another mass shooting anytime soon.

And yet on Valentine’s Day, in a supposedly safe and sacred space, 17 students and teachers were senselessly murdered. Seventeen families’ lives were irreparably shattered not by a tragic accident or an act of Florida’s sometimes-severe weather, but by a completely preventable act of gun violence carried out by a former student who had already been identified as “dangerous and unstable.”

The AR-15 semi-automatic rif le— easily modified to be fully automatic—was the weapon of mass destruction used in Florida and was the common denominator in the most notorious and deadly mass shootings in the United States including: Sandy Hook, Aurora, Orlando, Las Vegas, Sutherland Springs and San Bernardino. As I said in my November 2017 column: these guns must be banned; they are not designed for hunting or competitive target shooting. They are built to efficiently exsanguinate and then kill human beings. There is no reason, other than mass murder, for anyone who is not in the military or law enforcement to own these types of weapons.

How did this happen?

The literal answer is that the AR-15 is a very good killing machine. It is designed to fire 45 rounds (bullets) per minute, but with simple modif ications to make it fully automatic, even an unskilled shooter operating under pressure and duress that most likely occurs while mowing down unarmed innocent people can fire 5–8 rounds per second, meaning 300–500 bullets per minute.

The killing potential of a gun is directly proportional to the amount of kinetic energy delivered to the human body when the bullet strikes. For the physics buffs with an affinity for Newton’s Second Law of Motion, the equation is: Kinetic Energy = ½ bullet mass * velocity of bullet when fired.

A standard 9mm handgun, carried by cops and bad guys in every TV show and movie produced in Hollywood, is an effective weapon, but in comparison to the AR-15, it is downright slow with an average velocity of 1,200 feet per second and a kinetic energy of 400 foot pounds.

The standard AR-15 bullet travels at 3,251 feet per second and delivers 1,300 foot pounds of kinetic energy.

A bullet from a handgun might cause

PHOTO BY RINK

Thoughts and Prayers Are Simply Not Enough

Flags at San Francisco City Hall flying at half mast in remembrance of the victims of the Valentine’s Day shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida

tissue destruction in a vital organ in a small area (1–2 inches), but a round from an AR-15 will literally pulverize the organ; the same effect as dropping a carved Halloween pumpkin off a 12-foot wall onto a concrete sidewalk. This is why AR-15 shootings have such high fatality rates.

Why does the U.S. have so many mass killings?

There is no single or easy answer to this question. With school shootings, bullying, revenge, isolation, serious mental illness, lack of positive role models and a culture that embraces extremism—such as our current Presidential administration— are contributing factors. Easy access to guns and the failure of classmates, parents, teachers and guidance counselors to see the warning signs and to take action compound the danger.

In the case of the Parkland, Florida, shooting, many classmates commented that this shooter was someone who was “likely to snap and do something like this.”

The U.S. has a terrible track record of caring for its mentally ill. In the 1960s, community mental health programs cared for people with schizophrenia and similarly severe disorders including depression, with treatment that included compassionate care and proper medication. President Reagan defunded—and tore down—the state asylum system and promulgated the idea that mental health care is better provided by local communities, but the program was never fully funded. Our American system of care is in shambles. I take BART to Civic Center for work and see the heartbreaking symptoms of mental illness every day on the walk from the station to my office. We do not have a sophisticated system of care and protection.

I have one more simple and deadly mathematical equation: Easy access to guns + inadequate background checks + highly efficient weapons + substandard care for mentally ill individuals = more mass casualty shootings.

The 19-year-old shooter in Parkland, Florida, should never have had access to the AR-15 assault rifle and largecapacity magazines he legally purchased. We need to learn the lessons from our past, or we’ll just keep repeating recent tragic history instead.

Louise “Lou” Fischer is the Immediate Past Co-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club and has served as an appointed and elected Delegate for the State Democratic Party. She is a San Francisco Commissioner and has served in leadership positions in multiple non-profit and community based organizations.

Please, No More Prayers as Policy for Gun Control

Cross Currents Andrea Shorter For personal reasons, I am not a particularly religious person. In my own way, I am a person of faith, but not one of organized religion. Like many LGBT people, and in my case as a lesbian, my relationship with religion can be a complex and complicated one. I was born into a religious household and attended a Quaker established college, where I immersed myself in courses on Hinduism as my first foray into any religious experiences beyond the doctrines of my upbringing.

My life today is predominately one of a secularist, an ardent believer and advocate in the separation of church and state. I am not Baptist, but am a proud member of the historic Third Baptist Church here in San Francisco, where I occasionally attend Sunday services and other activities to stay in touch and commune with more adherent fellow congregants, many of whom are vigilant, wise elders of the civil rights movement.

Similarly, in a blending of secularism and practice of faith, I attend the annual San Francisco Multicultural Passover Freedom Seder that I helped

Yet, and not necessarily contradictory to the tenants of my preamble, I do pray. Maybe not often enough, but I do pray. I hold no fervent belief in a singular or particular idea of God per se, so much as acknowledging a rather human need for communion with either the idea or perhaps reality of some binding force greater than ourselves, but residing within ourselves. I pray because that’s what Black women do.

Whether one is deeply religious, atheist, agnostic, or just simply ingrained in a sacred belief that as Africans, we are the descendent mothers of the cradle of civilization, I have rarely met a Black woman who does not take to some form of prayer as meditative, centering, comfort, and to renew our individual and collective strengths to survive, to keep on keeping on in the faith of possible transcendence beyond incomprehensible injustices and inhumanities.

Prayer has its limits, though. Prayer is not a magical wand that can cast away by spells abject failures to direct our free will, which can prevent gross injury and injustice.

In the wake of yet another tragic and senseless mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida, we are further pained and sickened by the offers of prayer by NRA-bound GOP elected off icials to those families whose children were slaughtered at the hands of a severely disaffected young man allowed to purchase and possess an automatic rif le. Offers of prayer

are of little to no comfort when prayer serves as the now ritualized substitute for enacting desperately needed g un cont rol policies that could have helped prevent such an horrif ic tragedy in the first place.

Your tweeted of fers of prayers ring gravely hallow, and do not absolve your willful complicity with inaction propped up by fatuous rattling off of rusty talking points like, “ We don’t need more laws, we just need to enforce the ones we have,” or sleight of hand diversions proposed to address the mental health needs Mourners gathered around a cross, one of seventeen placed in remembrance of the school shooting victims in of those spurred by rac- Parkland, Florida. ism, homophobia or othchurch and state. Prayer as non-sec- ing gun control policies—led by the er symptoms of your injurious policies ular prescriptive practical response friends, family members and coland actions often rooted in the very stands to erode that sacred wall erect- leagues of the victims—has been endivisive racist, homophobic, or sexist ed to dispel assertions of theocracy as couraging. I expect that their deterbeliefs that underlie your weary jusdemocracy. When you confuse the- mination to rally their congressional tifications for rendering the Constituocracy as democracy, it allows for and local elected officials to take real tional right to bear arms as the higher all sorts of misguided justifications action beyond prayers will not disvalue above all else and at any costs. for not taking practical action. Faith solve into just another in a series of The costs are clear of maintaining without works is, as has been said, senseless tragedies. My prayers are millions of NRA dollars as benefi- dead. with them, but so are my calls and ciaries and robotic sycophants. The emails to congressional members to President could not even utter the I am keeping faith with those young address these problems with strategic people at Marjory Stoneman Dougword “gun” in his painfully lacking measures—now! remarks on this latest AK-17 related las High School in Parkland, Floritragedy. He’s a Gold Star $30 Mil- da, who survived that automatic ri- Andrea Shorter is President of the lion NRA beneficiary. Within these fle bullet-riddled slaughter that killed historic San Francisco Commission too often revisited, pain-stricken con- 17 of their friends, brothers, and sis- on the Status of Women. She is a texts, the offers of prayer are eerily ters. Their pain and loss are no dif- longtime advocate for criminal and and dangerously bordering on pro- ferent or less than what has been felt juvenile justice reform, voter rights, jecting prayer as policy. Prayer is not time and again at Columbine, San- and marriage equality. A Co-founddy Hook, Pulse, or the 20-plus mass policy. er of the Bayard Rustin LGBT Coalishootings that have already occurred tion, she was a 2009 David Bohnett From the point of view of this devout within the first two months of 2018.

LGBT Leadership Fellow at the Harsecularist Black lesbian, prayer as policy is a direct contradiction to the The expressed renewed defiance and vard Kennedy School of GovernConstitutionally sacred separation of resistance to the status quo regard- ment.

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

7

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLACKCHRISTIANNEWS.COM

to start 22 years ago with friends at the Jewish Community Relations Council as well as African American community leaders to regenerate long-standing bonds through which we have together sought to advance civil and human rights.

IMES TThrowback AYPhoto BRink S

A

N

F

R

A

N

C

I

S

C

O

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Are) a CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2018

1978

Successful Outcomes of the LGBT Aging Policy Task Force ples of feasible, innovative and much needed programing.

Aging in Community Dr. Marcy Adelman

The sidewalk in front of the Hibernia Bank building (now Bank of America) where Castro and 18th Streets intersect has long been known as “Hibernia Beach.” The location’s name even inspired the title of a gay-themed talk radio show, Hibernia Beach Live, broadcast on station KITS from 1989 to 2000 and hosted by Ken McPherson as well as Geraldine Barr, Renée Rotten, and Ben Carlson “Hibernia Beach” was also the name of a song by the rock band Pansy Division. It introduced the radio show as it came on the air. You can listen to the song online (pansydivision.com/Audio/hiberniabeach. mp3).

The beach monicker might at first seem surprising for a site with no sand, but guys desiring to hang out there in the 70s realized that the location gets a lot of sun in the afternoons, so it evolved into a popular gathering spot. Today the location is used for all sorts of activities ranging from voter registration to surveying to Girls Scout cookies’ sales to public memorials.

Rink reports that his photo in this week’s Throwback was taken at Hibernia Beach in 1978 and includes some cruisers, one of whom is interacting with a mime. (Remember all of the mimes in San Francisco back in the day?) It looks like the mime in this case might have been flirting with one of the men, with the split second moment in time captured for posterity.

Four years ago, this March, the San Francisco LGBT Aging Policy Task Force concluded its 18-month tenure by submitting its final report, LGBT Aging at the Golden Gate: San Francisco Policy Issues and Recommendations, to the Board of Supervisors. The LGBT task force had been charged with studying and identifying systemic barriers to living well and to make recommendations for enhancing quality of life and reducing health disparities and inequities for LGBT older adults.

The task force’s report was unanimously adopted by the Board of Supervisors in April 2014. Four years later, I am happy to report that all but two of the task force’s thirteen recommendations have been implemented, or are in process of implementation.

The task force was able to achieve successful outcomes because of four key factors: First, the task force intentionally increased the likelihood of achieving favorable outcomes by focusing on bold policy changes and innovative programing that were highly feasible and would have the greatest impact.

The LGBT Senior Care Facilities Bill of Rights and the LGBT Data Collection Ordinance are policy changes that best reflect this focus. The development and implementation of an LGBT dementia capable care training program and an isolations prevention peer support program are exam-

Second, the successful outcome of the task force’s recommendations can also be attributed to the leadership of then Supervisor Scott Wiener, who responded to requests from LGBT aging advocates by introducing legislation to establish the time limited task force, sponsored and authored task force recommended legislation, and supported funding for task force identified programs. To succeed, LGBT aging issues and concerns greatly benefit from a champion at City Hall.

A third factor in the task force’s success in the implementation of their recommendations is its partnership with the Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS). San Francisco has a department of aging that is committed to the principles of diversity and equity. DAAS committed resources and assistance that were essential to the task force’s ability to commission and conduct four research projects and then followed through with funding for new, or increased, programing based on the strength of these studies and the task force’s study of best practices in deliberating and making recommendations.

And finally, the task force members themselves were a passionate, dedicated group of community advocates with diverse areas of expertise in LGBT aging from health and social services to housing and legal issues to HIV and transgender aging issues and more. Each member understood what a unique opportunity the task force was to make a difference in all of our lives and we were determined, no matter what, to do our very best. It was a privilege and an honor to serve with these dedicated people.

The success of the task force does not mean, however, that there isn’t more work to be done. There are still two recommendations that have yet to gain traction. They are a work in progress. Supervisor Wiener is now a Senator and is no longer on the Board of Supervisors. The two remaining recommendations would benefit from a champion at City Hall.

The existing continuum of senior care is too slow in responding to the needs of LGBT older adults. LGBT older adults are still underrepresented in housing and health and social services and remain invisible and devalued in too many places in the LGBT community itself. The work continues, but because of mandated data collection, we will be better prepared to identify what our needs and concerns are and how best to employ our resources. The task force’s success is not a fix, but it is another step—and an important step—on the road to all people being able to thrive and grow regardless of age, race, ethnicity, income level, sexual orientation, gender identity or ability.

LGBT Aging Policy Task Force: Problems and Solutions Below is an update on each of the issues identified by the task force.

1) Recommendation: Improve understanding of service needs and service utilization in the LGBT community by collecting data on sexual orientation and gender identity whenever other voluntary demographic data is collected.

Solution: The LGBT Data Collection Ordinance, mandating data collection by five city departments, was passed in July 2016. A progress report will be released this fall. Full compliance is scheduled for the summer of 2019.

2) Recommendation: Improve inclusion in services and improve service providers’ ability to work effectively with LGBT older people by expanding existing cultural competency training.

Solution: Funding was made available to expand provider training.

3) Recommendation: Improve LGBT community awareness of existing community-based services and city resources for a wide range of social services and health care.

Solution: An Aging and Disability Resource Center was opened in the LGBT community. An LGBT Care Navigation and Isolation prevention (continued on page 30)

The official portraits of former president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle were unveiled at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery on February 12. The date is significant for another reason: former president Abraham Lincoln was born on that day in 1809. February is also Black History Month.

On hand to view the portrait was City College Trustee and former San Francisco Bay Times columnist Alex Randolph and his husband, Navy Officer Lt. Trevor Nguyen.

Randolph told the Bay Times: “While in Washington, D.C., to attend the annual Association of Community College Trustees Conference, I had the incredible opportunity to see the recently unveiled portraits of the former president and first lady. It was wonderful to see so many diverse people from all over the world stand in line to get a moment with the paintings at the National Portrait Gallery.”

He added, “At a time when we have a bully in the White House, it was a wonderful reminder and lesson in history to see all of our former presidents in one gallery. We have had our share of dangerous, corrupt, and plain incompetent presidents in the past, yet our country survived.”

“The morning at the museum,” he concluded, “was humbling and left me and my husband Trevor hopeful for the future.”

8

SA N F RANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Alex Randolph (left) and Lt. Trevor Nguyen at the National Portrait Gallery

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALEX RANDOLPH

City College Trustee Attends Viewing of Newly Unveiled Obama Portraits

CASTRO

Time for ‘Me Too’ in Women’s Healthcare Jackie’s mom, then to Jackie, and now to me. Our 24th annual family gathering will be this weekend.

STREETCAM presented by

6/26 and Beyond John Lewis It’s Lunar New Year, and every year at this time our thoughts turn to our cousin Jackie, one of Stuart’s cousins on the Chinese side of the family. Jackie was a strong, independent woman and a maverick, given that she became a successful Chinese American female dentist decades ago, at a time when the profession had few women.

sfbaytimes.com

items of the week

Unicorn Hat/Scarf It is cold outside, but you want to get your unicorn on, now you can! This cozy and fabulous unicorn hat-scarf by Smoko is just the thing.

Drag Queen Shower Curtain Nothing makes your day better than showering with drag queens! Pick up one of these amazing drag queen shower curtains by Magnus Hastings.

O

ur buyers have been going to trade shows and finding new, fun and sometimes even practical things to make these cold days worth leaving the house. Over the next couple weeks, lots of new products will be popping up all over the store. We hope you will find something that you just can’t live without !

Jackie was a matchmaker of sorts for us. Stuart was living in Jackie’s extra basement bedroom in her Diamond Heights home when Stuart and I met 31 years ago. I met Jackie shortly after Stuart and I started dating, and the next time I saw Stuart he told me: “Jackie has decided she likes you.”

After Stuart and I had been together for nine months, Jackie told Stuart he needed to move out of her spare bedroom because her elderly parents were coming for an extended visit. I always thought she had actually decided it was time for us to move in together.

Jackie was an amazing dentist and a great older sister too, inviting her younger brother to join her practice after he finished dental school. Our trips to the dentist were a family affair and an opportunity to share and catch up on family news, all while we got our teeth cleaned or cavities filled. One visit 24 years ago was particularly memorable because Jackie, her dad, Stuart and I had decided we should start an annual family Chinese New Year party with all the many relatives, where we savored the family’s traditional New Year recipes, passed on from generation to generation.

Jackie and I decided we would cook the dinner together. I’ll never forget how—with my mouth wide open in the dental chair and Jackie poking at my teeth and gums with her instruments—Jackie explained many elaborate New Year recipes with myriad ingredients, such as ginkgo nuts, wood-ear fungus, dried oysters, lotus root, and two types of fermented tofu. These were recipes that Stuart’s grandmother had passed on to

But unfortunately Jackie will be there only in spirit.

Several years ago, Jackie began having persistent digestive problems that responded to none of the treatments her physicians prescribed.

Jackie’s physicians told her she had irritable bowel syndrome, explaining that she worried too much. Many months passed and Jackie’s symptoms continued to increase. As Jackie continued to urge her physicians to investigate her symptoms more fully, they finally discovered the truth. Jackie had late stage ovarian cancer that had metastasized to surrounding tissues.

The cancerous tumors were putting pressure on her digestive system and causing the symptoms.

When I learned the news, I realized that Jackie was not the first of our women friends to have unexplained digestive symptoms that physicians dismissed and misdiagnosed, but in fact were serious ovarian medical problems. A middle-aged friend complained of digestive problems to her physicians for months, and as with Jackie, her physicians dismissed her concerns, telling her she fretted too much. Eventually, they discovered a non-malignant ovarian tumor “the size of a grapefruit” was causing the problems.

Fortunately, after it was removed, she was fine.

The teenage daughter of another friend had severe abdominal pain with nausea, and when she went to the emergency room, physicians repeatedly asked her, among other things, if she were pregnant (which she was not). Much later, she finally got the correct diagnosis: one of her fallopian tubes was twisted, causing the severe pain and damaging an ovary.

In all three cases, physicians marginalized or dismissed the concerns of women, aged 14 to 70, who all ended up having serious ovarian-related medical problems. As an LGBTIQ person, I could empathize from my own personal experience, having had physicians not understanding or taking my health concerns seriously.

After Jackie got the diagnosis, she asked me to be her health care power of attorney, attend doctor appointments along with her brother, and be with her during

the f inal stages of the disease.

Jackie was a very strong person.

Indeed, she took no pain medication during her disease (except after surgery) until the last hours of her life. She lived each day to the most. I learned a lot from her.

One time during the later stage of the disease, Jackie, who also held a degree in public health, lamented to me that ovarian cancer is not a subject of sufficient public education and does not get enough media exposure. This is because of the fact that too many women are diagnosed with the disease in its late stages and do not have the time and energy to organize and advocate for better awareness, treatment, and diagnosis.

We agree. Because of Jackie, whenever I meet physicians, I urge them to investigate ovarian issues when women patients report digestive or abdominal problems that evade easy diagnosis.

We can do much more, too. I recently heard a caller to a public radio show remark: “I was blown away by the power of women raising their voices together with ‘Me Too.’ Maybe we should keep calling out the patriarchy and say ‘Me Too’ to all of the other injustices we face as women. I would love to see a ‘Me Too’ movement about how women are mistreated by doctors.”

When I heard the remark, I immediately thought of Jackie and our other friends. In the words of the movement, “Time’s Up” for the medical profession marginalizing women’s health concerns and costing lives.

John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney, together for over three decades, were plaintiffs in the California case for equal marriage rights decided by the California Supreme Court in 2008. Their leadership in the grassroots organization Marriage Equality USA contributed in 2015 to making same-sex marriage legal nationwide.

Leno Campaign Kickoff Photos by Rink The Mark Leno Campaign for Mayor held its official launch event on Saturday, February 17, at its campaign headquarters in the former Pottery Barn location at 2390 Market Street.

Chinese lion dancers, drag performances and a line-up of speakers were on hand along with more than 400 supporters and community and civic leaders, including Supervisors Sandra Lee Fewer, Hillary Ronen and Aaron Peskin, former Supervisor Sophie Maxwell, Candidate for Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, Assemblymember Phil Ting and Board of Equalization Member Fiona Ma. markleno.com 10

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Seven Must-Have Financial Conversations for Same-Sex Couples

By Meghan Railey So, you’re thinking about getting married. Congratulations! But before the big day arrives, make sure you and your partner sit down for a serious financial discussion. It’s an important step for any couple, but one many people avoid because it’s too hard or causes tension in the relationship.

Unfortunately, not having the talk can cause more problems down the road—due to differences in personal money management habits as well as financial implications related to taxes, inheritance, retirement benefits, and more.

In fact, a recent study showed 73% of affluent, unmarried same-sex couples agree that getting married isn’t just a question of love and commitment—it’s a big financial decision. More than half of these couples cited financial security and benefits as an important reason to get married. Yet only 35% fully understand what the financial benefits actually are—or the potential drawbacks.

By discussing finances upfront, you both enter marriage with your eyes wide open and a plan in place for financial issues. To help you get started, we’ve outlined seven key areas to address with your partner before the wedding bells ring.

1. Cover the Basics Why it’s important: Understanding your combined finances, as well as each other’s money management habits, can alert you to areas of potential conflict and also sets the context for discussions on bigger picture topics.

What to discuss: Each of you should share information on the following: • Income • Regular expenses • Existing debt, what you consider an acceptable level of debt, and under what circumstances you feel it’s okay to borrow • Saving strategy and saving priorities • Short- and long-term goals • Approach to investing and tolerance for investment risk • Your preferred standard of living • At what dollar threshold you need to check in with your partner before making a purchase • Whether to have joint bank and investment accounts, keep them separate, or take a mixed approach

Family taking

Care of family

Family of Choice Homecare, LLC offers compassionate inhome care that addresses the unique needs and concerns of LGBT older adults, and allows them to age authentically and with pride in their homes and communities for as long as they can.

SERVICES: Light Housekeeping • Companionship • Mobility Support • Dementia/ Alzheimer’s Care • Medication Reminders • Fall Prevention • Shopping • Personal Appointments • Eating Assistance • Menu Planning & Preparation • HIV Care • Transgender Aging

We invite you to contact us directly to discuss your needs or a FREE initial inhome assessment.

We look forward to becoming your family of choice!

Kevin Pete & Kenneth Boozer, owners Call (510) 285-6484 FamilyofChoice.us 12

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

As you develop your goals, also create a budget to help you reach them. This may involve compromise as you negotiate priorities and determine where you might need to cut back on spending to boost your savings.

2. Tackle Taxes Why it’s important: Since the Obergefell ruling in June 2015, same-sex married couples can file joint returns at both the federal and state levels. While that simplifies matters, it also means that marriage could have a more significant impact—for better or for worse—on your tax picture.

What to discuss: Your tax advisor can help you determine how your combined incomes will affect your tax bracket, and specifically, whether marriage might trigger a “marriage penalty”—potentially increasing your tax burden—or a “bonus” that helps to reduce your taxes.

Also: Your tax advisor can help you evaluate “head of household” and “married filing separately” options.

3. Review Retirement Plans Why it’s important: You and your partner need to understand each other’s vision of a good retirement— and how you’ll achieve it.

What to discuss: Share information on current retirement investments.

Discuss your end financial goal and how much you’ll each need to save on a monthly or annual basis to get there.

Know that private, state, and local government employers are required to give same-sex and heterosexual married couples equal access to retirement plan benefits. Similarly, married same-sex couples are eligible for spousal Social Security benefits.

Also: Review the beneficiary and surviving-spouse rights for any retirement or pension plans. You can also work with your Financial Advisor and tax advisor to develop a plan that can help maximize retirement while positively impacting your tax picture.

4. Consider Children Why it’s important: Put simply, children cost money.

So, if you have or plan to have children, you need to address the related financial needs.

What to discuss: If you or your partner already have children, discuss to what extent you’ll share financial responsibility if you marry. If you plan to have children after marriage, discuss how you’ll plan for day-to-day costs, as well as future expenses, such as college tuition.

Realize that you may also qualify for tax deductions as parents.

Discuss potential “what ifs,” too. Specifically, if one parent passes away, will the surviving partner be able to maintain your family’s standard of living? You may want to investigate life insurance options to prepare for this possibility.

Also: Same-sex couples need to pay particular attention to legal aspects of parenting. That is, who qualifies as the birth parent or legal parent? A family attorney can help you work through these issues.

5. Investigate Health Insurance Why it’s important: The Obergefell ruling means same-sex married couples should have the same health insurance coverage options as heterosexual married couples. However, with this benefit in place, employers may not continue offering benefits to domestic partners, couples in civil unions, or other unmarried couples.

What to discuss: Compare insurance coverage options from each partner’s employer to determine the best combination of coverage and cost for your needs.

6. Establish an Estate Plan Why it’s important: An estate plan helps to ensure that your assets are managed as you wish, now and later.

What to discuss: A legal spouse often has specific inheritance rights under state law that you may want to review with your estate planning attorney. It’s also wise to work with the attorney to complete at least the following four documents: • A durable power of attorney, which states who will be responsible for managing your finances and making financial decisions should you become incapable of doing so—for instance, due to injury or incapacity.

• A will, which ensures your individual assets that do not have designated beneficiaries are distributed according to your wishes after you’re gone.

• A healthcare power of attorney, which authorizes someone to make medical decisions for you when you are unable to do so yourself. (continued on page 25)

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS STILL MATTER Even if you and your partner decide to marry, it’s still important for you both to specifically designate beneficiaries for life insurance policies and retirement assets such as 401(k) plans, IRAs, and annuities. Designating beneficiaries for investment accounts may also be a consideration depending on the size and complexity of your estate and the estate planning documents executed.

Beneficiary designations will take precedence over any other instructions you’ve left (such as in a will). So, it’s also critical that you review your designations every few years to see if any updates are necessary. Your estate planning attorney will help you review and coordinate your estate planning documents, asset titling, and your beneficiary designations to ensure your assets transfer as intended.

Own a Home?

Here’s How the New Tax ‘Cut’ Affects You ly. But that may be little consolation for California homeowners.

new deductible limits and effective dates apply to second homes as well.

Let’s take a closer look at how the TCJA may impact you.

If you want to refinance a property you purchased before December 14, 2017, you can still deduct the interest on your debt up to $1 million, as long as the new loan doesn’t exceed the amount you’re refinancing. So, if you were thinking of pulling out an extra forty grand to redo your bathroom, that extra amount won’t be deductible.

State and Local Tax Deduction Limits

Money Matters Brandon Miller Let’s face it. The cost of owning a home in the Bay Area is crazy high.

We pay taxes on top of taxes—at some of the top rates in the nation.

Our state taxes alone are the highest of any state in the Union, according to the Federation of Tax Administrators.

But every April 15, homeowners could find a little relief in the form of tax deductions. We could deduct the full amount paid for personal (nonbusiness) state and local property taxes. And that was on top of being able to deduct every dime paid in state and local income tax.

Ah, the good old days.

Sadly, California homeowners may have just been jobbed by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). That’s because if you itemize your taxes, there is now a cap on how much you can deduct.

And it’s way below what many of us have become accustomed to subtracting from our tax bill.

Of course, the TCJA hopes to make itemizing less attractive by doubling the standard deduction to $24,000 for joint-filing couples, and $12,000 for individuals and those filing separate-

Schedule A of Form 1040 used to be a friend of the homeowner. By itemizing, you could deduct the full amount of your state and local income and property taxes (unless you’re subject to the alternative minimum tax, which disallows these deductions and will continue to do so under the TCJA).

But now you can only deduct up to $10,000—for both income and property taxes. And again, this limit is for both state and local property taxes and your state and local income taxes. Ouch.

Oh, and that home you own in Belize, or anywhere outside the U.S.?

There will be no personal property tax deductions for that piece of paradise any more.

There is one way you can potentially deduct a little more from your property taxes. If you have a home office or rent out part of your home, you may be able to deduct the portion of your property taxes allocated to that business or rental use on top of the $10,000. Luckily, we have a lot of entrepreneurial types in the Bay Area who may be able to gnaw on that bone Congress threw to us.

Mortgage Interest Deduction There are a few changes happening here too, which don’t work in favor of Bay Area homeowners. If you buy a property any time after December 14, 2017, only $750,000 of your mortgage debt is deductible. That’s down from the $1 million it used to be. (Purchases made prior to mid-December of last year aren’t affected by this.) The

And you might not want to turn to a home equity loan for that extra cash, either. Starting in the 2018 tax year, you can no longer deduct the interest you pay on this loan in most instances. (Your tax advisor can help you determine if deductions may still apply.) It may make sense to start paying down any outstanding debt you have here as quickly as possible.

As always, it’s best to consult your tax professional to make sure you comply with new rules and don’t lose out on potential gains.

Speaking of gains, one thing Congress didn’t touch are the rules affecting how much you can deduct from your taxes when you sell your home.

You can still exclude up to $500,000 in gains if filing jointly and half that if filing individually. If the high cost of living in the Bay Area then becomes too frustrating, you can always sell and go elsewhere.

Or wait until 2025. Unlike the massive tax cuts to corporations that are permanent, the revisions to personal tax codes are set to expire in six years.

There’s hope for us yet.

Brandon Miller, CFP® is a financial consultant at Brio Financial Group in San Francisco, specializing in helping LGBT individuals and families plan and achieve their financial goals.

Elegance or Sport in Big Trucks comas and Chevy Colorados.

They’re shorter and narrower and make a lot more sense when you’re double-parked to load up a poodle.

Auto Philip Ruth Masculinity comes in many forms, and for many car buyers, only something as physically substantial as a full-sized pickup truck can represent the strength and presence they feel in themselves. Among all choices in today’s showrooms, these trucks will satisfy even the most demanding size queens.

To these big ones, each manufacturer offers several flavors of trim to more closely match up to buyers’ attitudes. Some are luxurious, some are sporty, and some just reference Texas and the ranches on which their assembly plants are built, because these trucks are big business in the Lone Star state.

Obviously there’s less of a need for this much vehicular square footage in San Francisco than in Dallas, unless maybe you’re a contractor with loads to haul. It seems that wherever possible, truck owners in San Francisco—dog walkers, landscapers, painters and more—try to stick with compact models like Toyota Ta-

That’s why the two trimmed-up trucks we’re checking out this week—the Ford F-150 4x4 SuperCrew King Ranch and Nissan Titan Pro-4X 4WD Crew Cab—stuck out like thick macho thumbs in their Castro rounds. They’re impressive to behold, and to buy. The Nissan stickered at just more than $52K, while the Ford went gloves-off to add another $12K to the Nissan’s total. These vehicles demand a considerable financial commitment, even on cutrate leases.

The return on that investment appears with every approach to the King Ranch or Pro-4X, because that’s where their identities are the clearest. Walk up to the King Ranch, and you perceive a mix of brawn and elegance. The Blue Jeans paint of my tester gave a sleek metallic complement to the shiny wheels and door handles. It’s a look that balances boldness and refinement.

The Pro-4X trim of the tested Nissan, on the other hand, looks ready to rumble. The wheels are dark with jagged accents around the edges. The Titan’s Cayenne Red paint covers the fenders’ meaty contours and meets a charcoal-grey accent on the rocker panels. If somehow these are missed, then the big PRO-4X decals near the tail will leave no doubt that you’re the butchest at the 4x4 ball.

Maybe that’s why a BMW parked behind the Titan left a corrective note

Ford F-150 4x4 SuperCrew King Ranch

Nissan Titan Pro 4X 4WD Crew Cab

on the windshield, admonishing me for parking too closely and calling me an “a--hole.” It’s not an odd occurrence to be cursed at in the city, but the Pro-4X’s Bro-Dozer aspect seemed to invite aggression in kind.

The Pro-4X kept up that vibe in the driving, with deliberate responses to its steering and brakes, while the F-150 King Ranch felt lighter and smoother, almost luxurious by comparison.

The dif ference was considerable enough that each truck’s personality felt well-wrought, with plausible match-ups in both appearances and behaviors. Both the King Ranch and Pro-4X start from the same general concept, but each is its own unique, and expensive, expression of its owner’s ambitious identity.

Philip Ruth is a Castro-based automotive photojournalist and consultant (www.gaycarguy.com). Check out his automotive staging service at www.carstaging.com S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

13

Dan Ashley & Melissa Etheridge

ROCK the CASA

Dan Ashley on stage with Cheap Trick (2017)

Dan Ashley’s ROCK the CASA Helps Youth in Need

T

he headlines of late have been so disheartening, and especially concerning the threats and challenges faced by our nation’s youth. The problems often seem overwhelming and complex, with few guaranteed quick fixes in sight. It is therefore all the more important to support those who are working to improve the lives of younger generations. As the adage goes: A lot of people do well; the truly fortunate do good.

Dan Ashley is one such successful and very charitable person.

You probably know of Ashley’s work as a long-time broadcast journalist for ABC 7 News. He anchors ABC 7’s 5 pm, 6 pm, 9 pm and 11 pm broadcasts. Such a busy schedule would seem to leave little time for anything outside of work, but he is also a talented musician who heads up a namesake band and does countless hours of work for charities like AIDS Walk San Francisco, the American Cancer Society, ARF (Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, Canine Companions, Caring Bridge, the Contra Costa Crisis Center, the Faith Fancher Breast Cancer Challenge and Music in Schools Today (MUST). You can read more about Ashley’s incredible life, career and community work in our interview with him on the next page.

When the San Francisco Bay Times was asked to help out with Dan Ashley’s Rock the CASA, we then immediately said yes. Rock the CASA is an annual benefit concert that raises money for charities supporting children.

Kids today deserve the best care and the best opportunities. It is unfortunate that many children find themselves in challenging situations through

no fault of their own. Rock the CASA works to relieve the burden of under-privileged homes.

The stated mission of the event “is to provide support for community benefit programs that provide important services to youth in need. The foundation’s culture is based upon the basic belief that all youth in our community should have access to health, education, and recreational opportunities regardless of race, gender or economic status.” This year the benefit will support CASA of Contra Costa County, Friends of Camp Concord, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Check out our piece on these three non-profits on page 17.

But more importantly, please consider attending the event on Saturday, March 3 @ 8 pm, at the Lesher Center for Performing Arts’ Hofmann Theatre in Walnut Creek. This beautiful venue can be accessed via the Walnut Creek BART Station, which is about a 3/4-mile easy—no hills— walk away. Ashley will be debuting his incredible new band, and Melissa Etheridge is this year’s headliner! This event will provide an incredibly rare opportunity to see rock and LGBT icon Etheridge in such an intimate space. (The Hofmann Theatre holds just 785 seats.)

As Ashley says, “Rock the CASA helps kids and we get to have a great time doing it!”

For tickets and more information, please visit: http://rockthecasa.org/

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

15

Dan Ashley & Melissa Etheridge

ROCK the CASA

Dan Ashley Turns Passion for Music into Successful Fundraiser Benefitting Kids

Photos courtesy of Rock the CA

Emmy Award-winning television news anchor Dan Ashley can seemingly do it all. As you will soon read, this elegant and bright ABC7 News broadcast journalist is also an accomplished musician and even a former competitive figure skater! Through sheer talent and incredibly hard work, he has turned many of his life’s dreams into reality. Now he is turning his attention to helping youth in need with his fourth annual Rock the CASA charity event on March 3.

We are grateful that Ashley recently took time out of his near non-stop schedule to share his thoughts about the event, his band, meeting former U.S. presidents and much more.

San Francisco Bay Times: Your band PUSH is fantastic. We have seen you all perform a few times before. We are happy to see that you have some shows planned for this year, including Rock the CASA. How did this particular event come to fruition?

Dan Ashley: I have a new band now that I am really excited about that will open for Melissa Etheridge. A producer who was a talent development producer for a couple of major labels came to me with an idea to reinvent my musical pursuits and to create new opportunities at a higher level. I’m now doing Country-Rock with a phenomenal band of touring pros. As an example, the lead guitarist is Mariah Carey’s lead guitarist and music director, the percussionist tours with Pablo Cruise ... they’re all like that. There are already plans to book us starting this summer. The band is simply called by my name. Music is a great passion for me and it is a thrill to pursue this new opportunity.

As a result of that passion for music, I conceived the idea for Rock the CASA several years ago as an Evening of Music for Children in Need.

As a board member of CASA—which is the CASA in Rock the CASA, of course—I wanted to create a different kind of charity event. I’ve been on the CASA board for many years, probably a dozen or more. My very best friend in high school, who lost his parents under terrible circumstances, should have had a very different life, but did not have the support of a family or truly caring adults. Later in life, I realized what was missing in his, so CASA was a good fit.

I’ve also been on the board of Friends of Camp Concord (FOCC) for twenty years. We send underserved kids to summer camp at Lake Tahoe.

In the 22 years I’ve hosted a golf tournament for FOCC. We’ve sent 10,000 kids to camp, all expenses paid. For Big Brothers Big Sisters, I serve on an honorary committee with Willie Brown, Dianne Feinstein, and Lorrie Sullenberger (wife of famed retired heroic American

airline Captain “Sully” Sullenberger), and just love the mission to mentor young people.

Rock the CASA is fully centered around young people in need who need help, guidance, and new experiences. It raises money and also awareness for all three of these amazing causes. The first year featured Eddie Money, then REO Speedwagon in 2016, Cheap Trick in 2017, and now Melissa Etheridge this year.

RTC is on the first Saturday in March.

San Francisco Bay Times: What are you most looking forward to at Rock the CASA this year? Have you ever met and performed with Melissa Etheridge?

Dan Ashley: I am looking forward to a really special evening this year with an amazing headliner and a few surprises. We have remarkable sponsor support, fantastic auction items, and music all over the Lesher Center—at the VIP reception, in the lobby, on stage as people take their seats even before the show starts. I met Melissa in August when we shot the television spot that is airing on ABC7 now. She is just terrific and is really excited to play this event.

I decided this year that I wanted to mix things up and find a great female artist, and Melissa was the obvious choice. I’m just thrilled she was able to add it to her touring schedule.

San Francisco Bay Times: Your philanthropic work has tremendously benefitted the LGBT community, such as through your long-standing involvement with AIDS Walk San Francisco.

What is your personal connection to the LGBT community, and how might that have influenced your desire to help out?

Dan Ashley: One of the things I am most grateful for about this great job I have is that it gives me a unique place in the community simply because of its public nature. It is a privilege to be able to be involved in so many ways that are meaningful to me and I would like to think are meaningful in some ways to various causes that I support. One of the associations for which I am most proud is AIDS Walk San Francisco. For more than twenty years, I have supported the Walk in many ways—including serving as emcee every year. I remember the first year that I was on the dais looking out at 25,000 people who came to Golden Gate Park that morning and I was so proud, proud to be in a community where caring people gather in large numbers to make a difference. Way back when, the LGBT community did not get that kind

of support. Almost every one of us has personal connections to this community, I certainly do, and it is important that we stand together with them to show our love and support.

San Francisco Bay Times: We cannot even imagine your work schedule, given your many important projects. What is a typical work day like for you?

Dan Ashley: My days are a bit frantic I will admit, but they are generally filled with things that I am grateful to have the chance to do. In the few months leading up to Rock the CASA, my mornings are often filled with activities and duties related to the event. Quite often, I speak at lunches for various groups before work. I also take a couple of singing lesions each week, so I try to make time for those. I also serve on several boards and a lot of those calls are made in the morning as well, or during my commute into the city. After all of that, it’s time to head to the city. I anchor four newscasts each day—sometimes five if the 4 pm anchor is off—and it’s a pretty busy and full day spent writing and editing material for each of them. I get home at around 12:15 each night.

San Francisco Bay Times: What have been some of the highlights of your career so far? We recall your one-on-one interview with former President Barack Obama, for example, but are wondering what stands out for you.

Dan Ashley: I have had so many remarkable experiences as a journalist. I did interview President Obama at the White House a few years ago, and that was a great privilege. The chance to ask a sitting president questions was certainly a highlight. I also interviewed George W. Bush shortly before he was elected, and that was also a great experience because I found that his public image was not at all the impression I had of him in person.

Among my most memorable stories was the chance to cover the March of the Living in Poland about ten years ago. That is an annual event where Holocaust survivors and Jews from around the world gather to march symbolically from the Auschwitz concentration camp site to the site of the former death camp, Birkenau.

To be there with three Bay Area people who survived those camps was truly incredible. I’ve covered political conventions, inaugurations, wildfires, hurricanes, and just about any kind of story you can name with boots on the ground and every one of them has been a growth opportunity both personally and professionally. I saw John Glenn return to space about the shuttle in Florida, and I flew with the Blue Angels.

I’ve just been so fortunate.

San Francisco Bay Times: Is it true that you were once an ice skating instructor?

Do you still enjoy skating?

Dan Ashley: Yes, it is true. I was a figure skating instructor and also a competitor and performer—in freestyle, pairs, and ice dance. For a time, I skated five or six nights a week. It was great fun and I really enjoyed it. I wasn’t bad,

(2016) 16

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

(20

but since I wasn’t going to the Olympics, I figured I better find a different career!

San Francisco Bay Times: What are some of your future goals? You have already accomplished so much! We’re even wondering if you might run for a political office someday.

Dan Ashley: One of the things that makes life so enjoyable for me is to find new interests and to set new goals. While my career in journalism is always my top priority, there are always new opportunities to pursue and goals to reach. Rock the CASA has become a significant event, and my intention is to continue to see it grow to a point where it is ultimately selfsustaining.

I would like to see how much I can grow and achieve as a singer—that is a real love. One of my brothers and I have written several screenplays that we have shopped around in L.A. with agencies and script experts, and I would love to push that forward a bit more. We have no shortage of ideas—several finished screenplays and a dozen or more in some state of development. It would be so much fun to see that go somewhere.

I am also currently working on a book that I plan to finish by the summer that is focused on helping readers gain perspective and to pursue what really matters in their lives. It is a little surprising and very flattering how many people ask me whether I have an interest in politics. I’m not sure if it’s a compliment or an insult! Kidding aside, the short answer is no or, at least, probably not. While there are many issues I care a great deal about and think we could deal with far more effectively, I am not sure that I am political enough by nature to want to dive into that snake pit—it’s tough!

The only thing I might add is that, however busy my life and career may seem, I cherish down time and very simple pleasures. I don’t care a lot about parties and fancy dinners; I truly don’t. The perfect evening for me is a great movie or football game at home with a pizza delivered to my door and then a late-night bowl of ice cream. Mint Chocolate Chip, please.

To learn more about Ashley, go to: abc7news.com/about/newsteam/dan-ashley/

(20

BAY TIMES S

N

F

R

A

N

C

I

S

C

O

LGBTQ News & Calendar for the Bay Area CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES (1978–2018)

Melissa Etheridge Is One of the World’s Most Charitable Artists

ASA

Have you ever seen Melissa Etheridge live in concert? Her gutsy, long and heart-felt shows demonstrate her true love for both music and her fans. There are so many reasons to see her in person! Let us count the ways...

She is one of rock music’s great female icons.

Her critically acclaimed eponymous debut album was certified double platinum.

Etheridge’s popularity built around such memorable songs as “Bring Me Some Water,” “No Souvenirs,” and “Ain’t It Heavy,” for which she won her first Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal.

017)

017)

A

Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album Yes I Am, featuring the massive hits “I’m the Only One” and “Come to My Window” a searing song of longing that brought her a second Grammy. The six times platinum album spent more than two and a half years on the album chart. Etheridge is also an Oscar winner for Best Original Song in 2007. In 2011, she made her Broadway debut as St. Jimmy in Green Day’s rock opera American Idiot, where she replaced Billie Joe Armstrong for one week, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Non-Profits Supported by Dan Ashley’s ROCK the CASA 2018 Dan Ashley’s Rock the CASA has raised over $150,000 to help non-profits benefitting youth.

The inaugural concert in June 2015 was billed as “an evening of music to support children in need.”

That night, before a capacity crowd, legendary rocker Eddie Money took the stage. The event was an overwhelming success and set the groundwork for the next concert in March of 2016. That night, multi-platinum band REO Speedwagon performed for a sold-out concert experience not typically seen in Walnut Creek!

This year, the event will support three non-profits:

CASA

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children. The organization’s program recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who advocate for the best interest of abused, neglected, and abandoned youth in the foster care system.

Rock the CASA benefits the organization located in Contra Costa County.

Each year, nearly 1,000 youths, from the ages of 0–21, come into the foster care system and are under the court’s care because they are unable to live safely at home. On average, CASA serves 150 of the toughest cases or 15% of these individuals at risk.

Since 1982, CASA volunteers have been the voice in court and represented the best interests of thousands of abused, neglected and abandoned youths.

Most importantly, CASA volunteers stay with each case until it is closed and the individual is placed in a safe, permanent home.

Ann Wrixon, Executive Director of CASA of Contra Costa County, says: “Rock the CASA is our highest visibility event—not only providing the organization with much needed funds, but also getting our name in front of thousands of potential volunteers, which is the lifeblood of our work with abused and neglected children. Most remarkably, Dan Ashley has created Rock the CASA so that it is truly philanthropic. We could not be more grateful for the support of Rock the CASA.” cccocasa.org/

Friends of Camp Concord (FOCC)

FOCC was established in 1983 and is dedicated to raising funds to give underprivileged youth one of the most meaningful camp experiences available, and it does so in one of the most beautiful settings in the world: Lake Tahoe.

Through FOCC, kids get to spend a week in the wilderness and to participate in activities that emphasize safety, health, education and character de-

velopment. Some of the kids have never left their urban and suburban environments. Camp Concord opens a new world to them—swimming in the lake, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and boating. The activities are specially designed to promote positive attributes in the participants.

One of the best things about Camp Concord is that no one—not even the counselors—knows which kids are on FOCC scholarship. They are simply “campers” for the week. FOCC believes every child in our community, regardless of financial ability, should have the opportunity to spend a week at a camp like this.

Dave Goldman, founder of FOCC, says, “Rock the CASA’s support of Friends of Camp Concord sends underserved kids to camp at Lake Tahoe where we build trust, support anti-bullying skills and allow all kids an environment where they are on equal footing to build self-esteem, confidence and just have good old fashion fun.” friendsofcampconcord.org/

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area

For more than 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes and monitors meaningful matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 18, in communities across the country. The organization develops positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.

Here in the Bay Area, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been providing local youth with professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships in San Mateo, Santa Clara, San Francisco, Alameda, and Contra Costa counties since 1958.

In March of 2006, three separate Bay Area agencies, (BBBS of San Francisco & Peninsula, BBBS of the East Bay, and BBBS of Santa Clara County) merged to form Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area (BBBSBA), in order to more efficiently serve the community and be positioned for growth to meet the increasing demand for services.

The organization’s administrative headquarters are in San Francisco, with additional program offices in the East Bay (Oakland) and South Bay (Milpitas). bbbsba.org/site/c.7oJLLSPpFfJWG/ b.8602873/k.1895/Big_Brothers_Big_Sisters_of_ the_Bay_ Area.htm

We could go on about her career as a performer, but let’s move to another reason to see Etheridge in person.

She is a groundbreaking LGBT activist.

Etheridge came out publicly as a lesbian in January 1993 at the Triangle Ball, a gay celebration of President Bill Clinton’s first inauguration. At the time, few musicians of her stature risked hurting their careers with such an admission. Her honesty and integrity helped to pave the way for many more artists to come out of the closet. She inspired countless others to do so as well.

Taking another risk that year, Etheridge boycotted playing shows in Colorado over its passage of Amendment 2, which was poised to prevent any city, town or county in the state from taking legislative, executive or judicial action to recognize homosexuals as a protected class. According to public opinion surveys, the people of Colorado then strongly opposed discrimination, and yet at the same time, they opposed affirmative action based on sexual orientation. In 2007, fifteen years after the referendum on Amendment 2, the Colorado legislature amended its anti-discrimination law by forbidding discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, in employment. In 2008, Colorado further expanded its LGBT protections to include housing, public accommodation, and advertising.

Etheridge has taken other such risks over the course of her decades’ long career, putting policy goals ahead of her pocketbook. She has helped to change minds and discriminatory legislation along the way.

She took cancer out of the closet, too.

In October 2004, Etheridge was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy, which caused her to lose her hair.

Instead of hiding her altered appearance and medical condition, Etheridge again remained true to herself and to the public. She shocked viewers of the 2005 Grammy Awards when she strode on the stage—still bald—and tore into an incredible Janis Joplin tribute, singing one of our favorites, “Piece of My Heart.” The audience jumped out of their seats in recognition of this incredible moment. It was not only a victory for Etheridge, but also was one for those with cancer and other physical challenges. From then on, more people spoke candidly about their health and did not attempt to shy away from visible related truths.

She is one of the world’s most charitable artists.

The organization Look to the Stars ranks Etheridge as being one of the planet’s most generous performers, up there with legendary philanthropists and successful performers like Elton John, Ellen DeGeneres and Oprah Winfrey. Here are just a few of the many charities and foundations that Etheridge has supported: Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Clothes Off Our Back, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Dream Foundation, Entertainment Industry Foundation, Family Equality Council, Feeding America, GRAMMY Foundation, Live Earth, Love Our Children USA, MusiCares, National Domestic Violence Hotline, Pink Bracelet Fund, Stand Up to Cancer, The Art of Elysium, Treatment Action Campaign, V-Day and World Vision. Now Dan Ashley’s Rock the CASA and its beneficiaries can be added to that long and ever-growing list.

If you have seen Etheridge live in concert, then we are preaching to the chorus and you probably already have your ticket to Dan Ashley’s Rock the CASA. If you have not seen Etheridge live on stage before, put this on your bucket list, get your ticket to Rock the CASA and show some R-E-S-P-E-C-T for this legendary LGBT performer and activist. You will have the time of your life, and all for a great cause during a time when many of us, including Etheridge and Ashley, are looking for ways to bring positive energy back into our schools and communities.

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

17

Overcoming the Fear of Anxiety apy can be highly effective in helping us manage anxiety. The steps are easy to understand, but require sustained and consistent practice.

Roland Schembari and Bill Hartman, Co-Founders Randy Alfred, Founding News Editor 1978

The steps are 1) to remember that the problem in anxiety is the worrying, not what we’re worried about; and 2) to befriend anxiety rather than treating it as an enemy.

Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011

2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-601-2113 525 Bellevue Avenue Oakland CA 94610 E-mail: editor@sfbaytimes.com www.sfbaytimes.com

The Bay Times was the first newspaper in California, and among the first in the world, to be jointly and equally produced by lesbians and gay men.

We honor our history and the paper’s ability to build and strengthen unity in our community.

The Bay Times is proud to be the only newspaper for the LGBT community in San Francisco that is 100% owned and operated by LGBT individuals.

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

Beth Greene Michael Delgado Abby Zimberg Design & Production

Kate Laws

Business Manager

Blake Dillon

Examined Life Tom Moon, MFT Ron is well-paid and valued at his job, but despite good performance reviews and repeated assurances that his position is secure, he constantly worries that any minute he’ll be fired and wind up on the street. Mike has been in a strong, committed relationship for years, but worries almost daily that his partner is about to lose interest and leave him. Both of these guys know they’re poisoning today’s happiness by dwelling on what might happen tomorrow, but neither of them knows how to stop worrying.

I’ve found that a two-step process derived from a form of therapy called Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Ther-

The first step is crucial but difficult, because worry tends to be hypnotic and self-sustaining. When we become preoccupied with what might happen tomorrow, we overlook the fact that things are okay today, and our nervous systems react as if we’re really in an emergency now. Since we can’t do anything about an emergency that doesn’t exist in the first place, we feel weak and helpless, which causes us to worry even more. We begin to break this vicious cycle when we can sustain awareness that the problem is what the mind is doing today, not what might happen tomorrow.

In practice this means shifting our attention away from the content of our fears and focusing instead on the feelings and sensations of fear. Instead of endlessly assessing whether the evidence really suggests that we’re about to be fired, or lose our partner, etc. we get out of the story our anxiety is telling us and turn the atten-

Calendar Editor

Kit Kennedy Poet-In-Residence J.H. Herren Technology Director Carla Ramos Web Coordinator Mario Ordonez Juan Ordonez Distribution

CONTRIBUTORS Writers Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Patrick Carney, Kate Kendell, Alex Randolph, Heidi Beeler, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Tim Seelig, Cinder Ernst, John Chen Rafael Mandelman, Jewelle Gomez, Phil Ting, Rebecca Kaplan, Leslie Katz, Philip Ruth, Bill Lipsky, Karen Williams, Donna Sachet, Gary Virginia, Zoe Dunning, Marcy Adelman, Stuart Gaffney & John Lewis Brandon Miller, Jamie Leno Zimron Thom Watson, Michele Karlsberg Lyndsey Schlax, Randy Coleman, Debra Walker, Howard Steiermann, Andrea Shorter, Tom Temprano, Lou Fischer, Karin Jaffie, Brett Andrews Photographers Rink, Phyllis Costa, Jane Higgins Paul Margolis, Chloe Jackman, Bill Wilson, Jo-Lynn Otto, Sandy Morris, Abby Zimberg, Morgan Shidler

SF Sketch Randy Coleman Randy Coleman hails from New York, but has lived in San Francisco since 1975.

Coleman shares that before moving to the Bay Area, he studied Art History and Architecture at Boston University while working as a resident artist for architectural rendering at a Massachusetts historical society.

“All of my life I’ve been an artist,” Coleman says. “To know me is to know that I have a passion for art and architecture. I love this project for the San Francisco Bay Times, and hope that you enjoy my sketches.” © Randy Coleman, 2018

ADVERTISING Display Advertising Standard Rate Cards are available online at sfbaytimes.com and by calling: 415-503-1375 Custom ad sizes are available. Please inquire! The Bay Times reserves the right to reject any advertising at the discretion of the publishers.

National Advertising: Contact Bay Times / San Francisco.

Represented by Rivendell Media: 908-232-2021 Circulation is verified by an independent agency Reprints by permission only.

CALENDAR Event listings for consideration to be included in the Bay Times online or print Calendar section should be sent by e-mail to: calendar@sfbaytimes.com. © 2018 Bay Times Media Company Co-owned by Betty L. Sullivan & Jennifer L. Viegas

18

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

tion to the feelings and sensations of the anxiety itself—the sense of dread, the racing heart, the shallow breathing, the clenched jaw, etc. Every time the mind gets lost in the story again, we re-focus on the feelings and sensations of anxiety. This mindful focus returns us to the present moment, and helps us to realize vividly that the real source of our pain is in the present, and not in some hypothetical future.

The second step is counter-intuitive, but powerful and effective. We stop treating anxiety as the enemy. The capacity for anxiety evolved over millions of years and is built into the nervous system. We can’t prevent ourselves from experiencing some anxiety, and we also can’t get complete control over it. When we do try to control it we usually just wind up getting into a fight with ourselves, and the result is that we just make it worse. The suggestion here is to give up trying to make it go away and to instead give it our full and compassionate attention. In a sense, we start to make friends with it.

When we give it our full attention, we notice that every experience of anxiety has a beginning, middle, and end. It’s a wave of energy that arises, peaks, and subsides. When we neither feed it by getting lost in the story, nor try to resist it, anxiety eventually

fades on its own. We also begin to see that anxiety, while unpleasant, is not itself an emergency. We learn to see it as an ordinary mental event.

I don’t want to imply that learning to be mindful and non-reactive to anxiety is easy to do. It’s a practice that requires patience and consistency.

Sometimes the best we can do is to nibble around the edges of it with our awareness for a few moments. Sometimes, with intense anxiety, vigorous aerobic exercise or yoga can help to discharge enough of the energy to make mindfulness possible. But with practice, mindfulness strengthens like a muscle, and it becomes possible to be fully present even to extreme anxiety.

When we befriend anxiety instead of trying to conquer it or talk ourselves out of it, we learn to measure our progress, not by how seldom we experience anxiety, but by how much we accept it. We think in terms of reducing the believability of our fears rather than the frequency of their occurrence. We begin to overcome the fear of fear, which is really the root issue.

Tom Moon is a psychotherapist in San Francisco. For more information, please visit his website http:// tommoon.net/

GLBT Fortnight in Review

By Ann Rostow You Go, Curl!

I’m watching a little Olympics with the sound off as I write to you. It generally takes me a couple of weeks to figure out the difference between a toe loop and a salchow, or to remember how the scoring works in curling. And then, of course, it’s over for another four years, and all is forgotten.

This time around, I have noticed that the snowboarders and skiers who compete in the trick jumping events have a tendency to stick out their tongues for no reason. It looks as if they might do it out of self-consciousness. I don’t know, but I don’t like it. I’ve also found myself manifesting a little ageism by rooting against teenagers and/or first-time Olympians, while supporting veterans and anyone who is valiantly participating in their last winter games. I’m doing this on a gut level, and it’s not my normal habit. Where did this churlish little spite fest come from? They’re just kids!

At the same time, when they’re not trying for Olympic medals, I have started to really like the members of the postMillennium generation—the ones born in the 21st century. The students who survived the Florida attack are an inspiration, but there’s something optimistic about the whole cohort.

By the way, did you hear the guffaws about the Russian curler who was caught doping? Everyone was completely incredulous. How can performance-enhancing drugs help a curler, they sputtered? Guess they’ve never heard of a beta blocker. I have a lifetime prescription for propranolol thanks to a past history of an overactive thyroid, and I can attest that it helps your focus and steadies your hands. It’s also used by performers to combat stage fright.

Bring on the stones! (For the record, the Bay Area curling club is the largest in California.)

Oh. Before I move on to another subject, I just read a Washington Post article about a half -pipe skier named Elizabeth Swaney, an American who managed to ski for Hungary because of her maternal grandparents. Except, it turns out Swaney has no particular aptitude for freestyle skiing.

“Some who watched her compete Monday might have wondered what in the world Swaney was trying to achieve,” wrote the Post reporter. “…while the elite skiers around her were risking major injury with high-f lying tricks, she was content to mostly ride up the side of the pipe and do a little hop while turning around. She added a teeny bit of flair to her first run by skiing backward out of the pipe.”

I couldn’t help watching the video, along with Swaney’s hysterical “training video,” which looks like something produced by the Onion with Swaney jumping randomly on a trampoline, skating backward and f lipping into a pool with Olympic-sounding music in the background. The WaPo article discussed whether Swaney represented a slap in the face to dedicated athletes, or a plucky inspiration to the average schmuck. And I guess the Hungarian ski authorities had some ‘splainin’ to do.

Executive Disorder There’s a depressingly good article in Politico headlined: “Trump administration dismantles LGBT-friendly policies.” And here’s the thing, we’ve covered many of the developments listed in the story. But what is harder to describe is the insidious impact of the people Trump has hired, and the people those people have hired—people who oppose same-sex marriage, people who believe transgender Americans are sick weirdos, people who believe in a literal Bible, all sorts of people whose common denominator is a fruitcake conservatism, which often encompasses hostility to our community.

For all the talk of the “deep state,” the entrenched bureaucrats who transcend this or that political ideology, we could

be witnessing the seeds of another deep state—one that will live on to inf lict harm, much like the awful federal judges Trump and company have signed up for lifetime terms. The main obstacle to such a development is social media, which will haunt antigay individuals and allow us to uproot them once the reins of power return to our hands.

Among the various unpleasant reminders delivered by Politico was the new office for religious freedom at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), a bureau that apparently is designed to serve those whose faith dictates that they sidestep civil rights law. I honestly don’t quite understand it. Does the office stand up for the EMT who refused on religious grounds to treat a transgender car crash victim? Will its staff find a lawyer to defend the hospital that denied visitation to a patient’s gay spouse?

We assume that the federal courts are available as a backstop to confront that kind of gross discrimination, but what would happen if the Supreme Court rules in favor of the Denver baker, Jack Phillips, in the gay wedding cake case?

Phillips is claiming that he should be forgiven the denial of service to a gay couple based on his right, not to religious expression, but to free speech.

Still, the whole case pits a strict Christian against a gay couple, so a ruling in favor of the strict Christian is bound to encourage other religious actors, including those at this horrible new HHS division.

The opinion in Masterpiece Cakeshop could appear any day now, and I don’t mind admitting that I’m a little edgy.

Luckily, I have a bottle of propranolol somewhere.

Holier Than Thou, As Usual In other HHS discrimination news, Lambda Legal is suing the department for its role in denying two married lesbians the right to apply to become foster parents for refugee children. The health department uses taxpayer dollars to fund this particular service, a fostering program contracted to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The women, both of whom are professors at Texas A&M, were told that they do not “mirror the Holy Family,” and would therefore not be eligible to participate in this federally funded program.

I can’t name you chapter and verse, but I can assure you that the Obama administration did not allow federal contractors to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or gender. The widespread protections instituted by Obama seem to have been swept away like so much dust, a dismal state of affairs improved only by the thought of doing the same with Trump’s executive orders in a few years.

Meanwhile, in other news of irritating Catholics, a Miami school fired its firstgrade teacher a few days after her wedding to another woman. “This weekend, I married the love of my life,” wrote Jocelyn Morffi on Instagram, “and unfortunately I was terminated from my job as a result. In their eyes I’m not the right kind of Catholic for my choice in partner.” Morffi had worked at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School for seven years, and was widely admired by parents, who were furious at her dismissal.

In a sanctimonious letter to parents, Principal Carlota Morales called the firing “a difficult and necessary decision,” and asked for “your continued prayers.”

I was about to move on to the next story, but I was struck by something at the end of the Washington Post article about Morffi. After the story, in bold letters, the screen says: “Read more.” Then we have three other stories, one about a man getting 40 years in prison for throwing boiling water on a gay couple, and another about a man who murdered someone he found on a gay dating site. Really? That’s how we might follow up our interest in discrimination (continued on page 30) S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

19

From the Coming Up Events Calendar See page 28 Thursday, February 22 through May 20 - Angela Davis OUTspoken Exhibit @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street. Includes rare posters and ephemera tracing the turbulent history of activist and radical thinker Angela Davis.

Continues through May 20. glbthistory.org

Wednesday, March 7 - LGBTQ+ People of Color Yoga @ Oakland LGBT Community Center, 3207 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland. Held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. 6:30pm. oaklandlgbtqcenter.org

Ambitious and Uneven Half Magic is More Important Than Good

Film Gary M. Kramer

Heather Graham directs, writes, and stars in Half Magic, an ambitious and uneven comedy about female empowerment. The film, which opens theatrically at the Presidio and is also available on demand, presents an important message to women: that they need to release the shame they feel in order to get what they deserve.

In the era of the #MeToo movement, this is a worthwhile lesson, and some of the most squirm-inducing humor in the film stems from Honey (Graham) a Development Girl in Hollywood, being harassed and verbally abused by her boss/lover, action f ilm star Peter Brock (Chris D’Elia). He calls her “Big Boobs,” demeans her ideas in meetings as well as her ambitions to become a writer, and then tramples on what’s left of her self-esteem by embarrassing her in front of colleagues

or begging her to perform sexual acts on him even after they have broken up.

That these experiences stem from Graham’s own life is unfortunate and unsurprising. The film’s initial scenes show the young Honey being taught that sex is shameful by her father (Bob Rumnock) as well as her priest, Father Gary ( Johnny Knoxville), who speaks zealously about hell from his pulpit.

Half Magic soon has Honey taking part in a Divine Feminine workshop led by a Mistress Valesca (Molly Shannon), who encourages women to appreciate their own bodies and to yield to the “power” of their sexuality. It is at this workshop where Honey meets Candy (bisexual actress Stephanie Beatriz) and Eva (Angela Kinsey).

The three women become fast friends, in part, because they help each other to overcome t heir low sel festeem. Candy is having trouble with her boyfr iend, Da n iel (Alex Beh), who refuses to be monog a mou s ; he even expects Candy to do his l au nd r y wh i le he goes off and sleeps with other women. Eva humiliates herself by calling her exhusband, Darren ( T homa s L ennon), who ran off with a 19-yearold, and leaves him a string of increasingly disgraceful voice messages.

W hen Candy introduces Eva a nd Honey to some magic

KIT’N KITTY’S

QUEER POP QUIZ

candles, suddenly their wishes come true. Honey meets a hot guy, Freedom (Luke Arnold), and they have great sex. Candy stands up to Daniel and refuses to cater to his needs. And Eva meets an old friend, Mike ( Jason Lewis), who confesses he always had a crush on her and gives her the best sex of her life.

Half Magic generates its comedy from the broad humor that is used to show how the trio of women learn, but don’t always appreciate, the new and positive developments in their lives. Honey has trouble being sexual; she must understand how to g ive herself pleasure so she can receive it from others. Candy wants to share her life with someone who will not only be monogamous but also respect her and appreciate the same things she does. Lastly, Eva f inds herself drawn back into a relationship with Darren that is perhaps no less toxic that it was before.

These are realistic situations women face, and Graham’s comedy explores why women make bad dating decisions and choose “not good guys.” Half Magic features satiric humor in several of it sex scenes. In one, Eva has her first experiences receiving oral sex.

She talks and talks, worried about how she appears “down there” while simultaneously moaning in pleasure.

The juxtaposition of female gratification and low self-esteem is echoed in another sex scene where Honey alternates moaning and saying, “I’m sorry,” because she feels shame when she experiences pleasure because of her religious upbringing.

Alas, Half Magic also features cringeworthy scenes as when Peter tells Honey she is to monitor the erectness of nipples on a video game. It is as absurd as it is shocking and unfunny.

Likewise, when Eva tries to prevent a conf lict between Darren and Mike, the two guys get into a childish fight that is stupid and silly. These scenes reinforce the fact that the film’s char(continued on page 25)

STATE OF THE UNION Which of the following states was the first to legalize same-sex unions?

A) Rhode Island B) Vermont C) Arizona D) Hawaii ANSWER ON PAGE 30

Karin Jaffie as Kitty Tapata hosts Miss Kitty’s Original Trivia Nights at The Wild Side West on Wednesday nights from 8 pm–11 pm, 424 Cortland Avenue in San Francisco. As Tapata says, “It’s free, fun and friendly! To play is to win!”

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

21

Peeling Back the Mask of Invisibility The narrator describes himself as a man of f lesh, bone, blood, a mind, and then adds that he is invisible, “simply because people refuse to see me.”

Words Michele Karlsberg Michele Karlsberg: For this issue of the San Francisco Bay Times, I present a guest article written by author Gar McVeyRussell.

“When I was in the closet, I thought of myself as living inside a bubble made of one-way glass. I could see out, but others could only see their own projections of who they thought I was.”

-Alfonso Berry from Sin Against the Race Read between the lines of my novel Sin Against the Race and you’ll find Ralph Ellison. His masterpiece Invisible Man—the story of a black man who exists only as a prop for other people’s manipulation—has informed me since my teenage years.

It sat enticingly on a bookshelf in my family’s house for years. And despite wishing otherwise, I knew it was not the offspring of H.G. Wells’ similarly-titled novel. Ellison’s nameless narrator confirms this in the prologue: “No, I am not a spook like those who haunted Edgar Allan Poe; nor am I one of your Hollywood-movie ectoplasms.”

Those words haunted me more than any ectoplasm ever could. Scared to read about how the world viewed me and people like me, I put the book Gar McVey-Russell down. It sat untouched for months. Like most black folks, posed by the larger society. In other I had my share of “race” stories even words, it’s their problem that I’m as a teen: my brothers getting has- black and gay, not mine. Soon after sled by the police for playing with coming out, I found Joseph Beam, walkie-talkies, thinking something Marlon Riggs, Essex Hemphill, Assinister lurked behind their nerd- sotto Saint, Billy Strayhorn, and othplay; a Dutch pen-pal who stopped ers who refused to remain invisible. I writing after I sent him my photo; learned from their example that ina white friend at school who made visibility, like silence, equals death. fun of my flat nose. These and more In Sin Against the Race, I attempt to were all introductions to otherness. peel back the mask of invisibility for When I finally committed to read- those who wear a lavender veil as ing Invisible Man, I found something well as a black one. unexpected early in the book: “… the winding road past the hospital, Gar McVey-Russell began writing early in where at night in certain wards the life, but thought he wanted to be an astrongay student nurses dispensed a far omer. At UCLA, he co-created a left-leanmore precious thing than pills to ing paper called “Free Association.” He also wrote commentaries for “The Dailucky boys in the know.” ly Bruin” and feature articles for the LGPrior to reading Ellison, I had dared BTQ newsmagazine “Ten Percent,” for just once to look for my queer self which he received an award. He began ficin a book. Unfortunately, I looked tion writing in the early 90s. His work has in The Joy of Sex. Its denunciation of appeared in “Sojourner: Black Gay Voices homosexuality reinforced my self- in the Age of AIDS” (1993), “Harrington hate, the author’s evil intent, and Gay Men’s Fiction Quarterly” (vol. 7, slammed the closet door in my face.

Num. 3, 2005), and other publications.

Ellison pried it open and filled me He published his first novel, “Sin Against with hopeful questions. What “far the Race,” in October 2017. He is married more precious thing” did those nurs- and lives in Oakland. es dispense? Would they dispense it Michele Karlsberg Marketing and to me, if I summoned the courage Management specializes in publicto ask? ity for the LGBT community. This Invisible Man taught me that “oth- year, Karlsberg celebrates thirerness” can lead to an identity cri- ty years of successful book camsis, but also that “otherness” is im- paigns.

By Sister Dana Van Iquity Sister Dana sez, “The proDACA Dreamers’ semisensible Schumer-RoundsCollins Immigration Bill was denigrated by the White House (or should we call it ‘the Orange House’?) because T-rump & Company said it would create ‘mass amnesty for over 10 million illegal aliens, including criminals.’

Plus, it would not allow a trillion dollars for a giant, stupid wall. No DACA deal?

Give me a break!”

GLBT HISTORICAL SOCIETY hosted an evening reception entitled ANGELA DAVIS: OUTSPOKEN in their museum headquarters at 4127 18th Street—where the exhibition will be on display through May 20. Archivist/co-curator Lisbet Tellefsen helped put it together with her collection of posters. Messages on the wall include: “Liberation for All,” “Free Angela,” “Wanted by the FBI,” “An Icon,” and “Black, Beautiful, and Red.” The wall spells out the life of Davis: Falsely accused of complicity in a violent effort to free a Black prison activist who was on trial in Northern California, Davis went underground in 1970. The FBI responded by placing her on their Top 22

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Ten Most Wanted list (and a poster with her mug shot and fingerprints are included in this exhibition). By 1970, Davis would inspire activists and artists across the country and around the globe in the cross-pollination of Black Power, counter culture, and pop culture—all reflected in the posters, pennants, and various ephemera on display in this museum. After her arrest in October 1970, Davis became the center of an international mobilization, “Free Angela.” Committees formed across the nation and from other countries to free her. She was eventually found innocent and released from prison in 1972. Davis resumed speaking out against state violence, imperialism, and the carceral state.

Five decades later, she remains outspoken and is one of the leading philosophers of freedom. The most impressive section to me is the display of proud, loud Davis on the cover of Out magazine, February 1998. glbthistory.org Thomasina De Maio, local artist and curator, presented the FEBRUARY RECEPTION AND PARTY at her ARTSAVESLIVES studio and performance space on 518 Castro Street. Artists present on February 9 and whose pieces remain on display all month long include Michael Staley, Michael Lownie, Michael Lawrence, Martin Rosenthal, Hank Strohbeck, Lance Anthony Scott, Jerry Lee Frost, David Floyd Wright, Bill Bowers, DC Spensley, Bob Burnside, and Jack Stelnicki.

Entertainment was by Irene McCalphin, who has curated the finest local talent, including Mojo DeVille, Jet Noir, Alillia Johnson, and Magnolia Black, giving us spoken word and dance honoring Black History month. It was tru-

PHOTO BY PAUL MARGOLIS

Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun

As predicted in our previous issue, Sister Dana helped out at Bal Masque XV, where he, as well as many other revelers, were decked out in Mardi Gras colors, beads, crowns, masks and more. The event, held at The Café, was a benefit for Larkin Street Youth Services.

ly an awe-inspiring night. Light refreshments were served. I can’t wait to find out what De Maio has in store for her March reception!

KREWE DE KINQUE held our annual BAL MASQUE XV, FLIGHT 420 at the Cafe in the Castro on February 10 and benefiting Larkin Street Youth Services. The theme, “Come Fly with Us,” reflected the recent legalization of marijuana in California—as represented in the club by a huge, overhead, blow-up airplane inscribed: “Flight 420” with a green marijuana leaf logo. KDK Queen VII Sister Dana was the official Bead Beyotch, draping complimentary colorful beaded necklaces over gleeful attendees. KDK King XIII Sergio Fedasz was our delightful deejay while VIP guests enjoyed Cajun cuisine cooked by KDK members along with hosted Stoli cocktails. Master of Ceremonies, KDK Founder & King I Gary Virginia, introduced stepping down King XIV Barry Miles & Queen XIV Lady Cuki Couture, followed by (continued on page 31)

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE DE YOUNG AND LEGION OF HONOR

Casanova’s World Is Now in San Francisco Casanova: The Seduction of Europe Through May 28 at the Legion of Honor “Those who have not lived in the eighteenth century, in the years before the revolution, do not know the sweetness of living and cannot imagine what it was like to have happiness in life.”

–Charles Maurice de TalleyrandPérigord The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (FAMSF) invite audiences to journey into the world of eighteenth-century Europe with one of its most colorful characters, Giacomo Casanova (Italian, 1725–1798), as guide. Casanova was considered by his own contemporaries to be a witty conversationalist, autobiographer, gambler, spy, and one of the greatest Installation of “Casanova: The Seduction of Europe” at the Legion of Honor. Image courtesy of the travelers of all time. More than 80 Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. works of art, including paintings, sculptures, works on paper, period furnishings, delicate porcelains, and lavish period costumes, re-create this luxurious and sparkling world of masked balls, palaces, theaters and operas.

Installation of “Casanova: The Seduction of Europe” at the Legion of Honor. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

“The cosmopolitan Casanova is a fitting guide to lead our tour of the glittering art capitals of eighteenth-century Europe, from Venice to Constantinople, from Versailles to St. Petersburg,” says Max Hollein, Director and CEO of FAMSF. “He knew the greatest figures of the age, from monarchs like Louis XV of France and Catherine the Great of Russia, to popes, to intellectuals like Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin.”

Visitors are immersed in a visual world of Rococo finery, examining artworks not only as individual pieces, but also as combined and cumulative expressions of wealth and prestige. Although often exhibited in isolation, these works are best understood as parts of luxurious environments that also included architecture and interior design. To achieve the effect of eighteenth-century opulence, the exhibition stages several tableaux enlivened by mannequins dressed in period costume and surrounded by paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.

Installation of “Casanova: The Seduction of Europe” at the Legion of Honor. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

Installation of “Casanova: The Seduction of Europe” at the Legion of Honor. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

“This theatrical display of artworks is fitting for Casanova, who was not only the son of an actress but also an occasional theater musician and playwright,” explains Melissa Buron, Director, Art Division for FAMSF. “These tableaux show how Casanova lived a life immersed in the many pleasures of art and they feature amorous, mythological, and pastoral scenes by some of the most important painters of the time, including François Boucher, Canaletto, Jean-Honoré Fragonard, and William Hogarth.”

Paintings of Venetian masquerades and idealized gods and goddesses cavorting amid swirling clouds are paired with an opulence of decorative arts.

These include delicate and playful porcelains from the royal Polish Meissen factory and from as far as China; gilt candelabra and silvered mirrors; and lavish furniture made from silk-embroidered velvet, worked leather, marble, alabaster, and gold.

“Objects like these would have been part of the cumulative display of luxury found in the show palaces of Europe,” says Martin Chapman, Curator-inCharge of European Decorative Arts and Sculpture for FAMSF. “The Legion of Honor houses the magnificent French period room the Salon Doré, which was recently conserved and reinstalled to the delight of our visitors.

Casanova brings the eighteenth century to life in just as opulent a fashion.”

Francois Boucher’s Venus at Vulcan’s Forge, Mercury Confiding the Infant Bacchus, Boreas Abducting Oreithyia and Juno Asking Aeolus to Release the Wind. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

These stunning artworks are on loan from institutions including the Musée du Louvre; the National Portrait Gallery, London; the National Gallery of Canada; the National Galleries of Scotland; the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Rennes; and several prominent private collections.

Installation of “Casanova: The Seduction of Europe” at the Legion of Honor. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

French suit from about 1780. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco

Fan Italian Venice from 1730s. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

French dress in two parts from the 1760s.

Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

Thalia Muse of Comedy by Jean-Marc Nattier.

Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

Tureen in the form of a boar’s head. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

Commedia dell’arte figures. Image courtesy of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

23

Round About - All Over Town Photos by Rink

So far in February, San Francisco Bay Times lead photographer Rink has been out and about attending film festivals, art shows, outdoor activities and more.

We hope that you will enjoy our selection of images by him and will watch for the Rink Photo Throwback feature in every issue, showcasing some of his historic photos from 1978.

Hon. Carole Migden and her wife Cris Arguedas at the Jewish Film Festival Winterfest screening of Seeing Allred, a film about attorney Gloria Allred

Jovan Bright, Terrance Wilder, Tony Bradford and Anthony Gonzalez at the Royal Affair event for Black HIV/ADIS Awareness Day

Bay Area American Indian Two Spirits (BAAITS) members Landa Lakes, Derek Smith and Roger Kuhn at the “We’wha: The Life and Times of a Traditional Two-Spirit” presentation by historian Will Roscoe at the GLBT History Museum.

Black Brothers Esteem’s Travis Wise welcomed guests at the Royal Affair held at Mr. Smith’s lounge in observance of Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day.

Ray McKenzie (center), candidate for Emperor, with supporters campaigning on Castro Street BAAITS member Ruth Villasenor and her wife Diane Pfile at the presentation by historian Will Roscoe on the life of We’wha (1849-1896) who was a cultural ambassador for the Zuni people

Artist Meehaun Glasper-Wade’s artwork at the Art Saves Lives opening on Castro Street

Stage and screen star Rumi Missabu (left) with Sebastian Cheron at the world premier of the film Ruminations at the Roxie Theatre during the Indiefest Film Festival

Coordinator Misty Blue (standing) and volunteers staffed the voting table at the Harvey Milk Plaza Muni Station for the Emperor and Empress of San Francisco election.

Leandro Gonzales (center), candidate for Emperor of the Imperial Court, with supporters campaigning on Castro Street.

Coordinator Thomasina DeMaio with artist Meehaun Glasper-Wade at the Art Saves Lives show opening

Two Emperor Nortons (Joseph Amster and Rick Saber) with Countess Lola Montez were on hand for the 200th birthday party for Emperor Norton I of San Francisco held at the Comstock Saloon that has operated since 1906.

Artist Jun Yang with his abstract skyscape paintings at the Art Attack SF Gallery during the February Castro Art Walk

Art Supply Company’s Justine Kessler, Thomas Lewis, Karen Zendejas and Elena Low at Art Attack SF, where they provided boxes of art supplies for the create your own artwork activity during the February Castro Art Walk.

24

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Artist Marco Razo and his works on display at Dog Eared Books during the February Castro Art Walk

Artist Leslie Goldberg with her paintings at Spark Arts Gallery during the February Castro Art Walk

Guests at the Art Saves Lives show opening on Castro Street.

Artwork by Parisa Parnian on display at SOMAR Gallery during “The Third Muslim: Queer and Trans Muslim Narratives of Resistance and Resilience” art show

The Best Time of Day to Exercise

Take Me Home with You!

In my program we start with super-efficient strength training exercises done in a small amount of time so that they are easy to fit in a morning routine.

As you get stronger, your energy will improve and you can do more. Eventually you can add in walking or a f itness class.

Starting small is the key.

Easy Fitness Cinder Ernst Someone recently asked me, “What is the best time of day to work out?” The answer is easy. It’s the time of day that you will actually do it.

I have been a personal trainer for almost 30 years. I asked a 75-year-old client one time what her secret was.

She had been working out most mornings for almost 50 years. She said that she always got to the gym before her brain woke up and talked her out of it.

I loved her response.

When I teach my “Get Your Life Back” program, I encourage people to do a few minutes of targeted exercise as early in the morning as possible. The reasoning is twofold. One, when you complete your exercise promise early in the day you won’t have it hanging over you all day. Two, the morning workout is a good habit to make because often the day gets busier than expected, and you will run out of time, or you will be more tired than expected and run out of energy.

What if you are wanting to schedule with a personal trainer? I have talked to many people over the years who say they are not a morning person and in the same breath say they want to schedule a before-work session with me. I have found that mostly this is not a good idea. It leads to missed appointments, running late and general frustration. You can become a morning workout person gradually, but it’s not fun or useful to force yourself into it. I stopped working evenings many years ago, but I was always willing to schedule on the weekends.

The problem with after work fitness is having the time and energy after work to exercise. If you are caught in that bind, try finding a couple minutes of useful strengthening you can do in the morning at home and then plan a weekend workout. If you stay with an appropriate strengthening program, your energy will improve and you might find yourself sleeping better, getting up earlier or having extra time in the morning or extra energy after work.

Your workout has to actually fit into your schedule and energy level. Fitness should improve your quality of

life, not take over your life or make you feel like a failure. It’s easy to find short exercise routines on line these days. Planks, pushups and squats make great morning starters for those of you who are already pretty strong.

If you are less able, look me up on YouTube and get some chair strengthening exercises to start with at first.

The question of when to exercise is completely personal. I prefer the morning, but sometimes I take an evening class. Relax about this. Try some new ideas. Have fun and be nice to yourself.

Cinder Ernst, Medical Exercise Specialist and Life Coach Extraordinaire, helps reluctant exercisers get moving with safe, effective and fun programs. Her book, “Easy Fitness for the Reluctant Exerciser” (http:// cinderernst.com/easy-fitness-book/), is available in paperback and eBook.

She specializes in fitness and rehab for plus-size clients, but her stressfree approach is suitable for all. Find out more at http://cinderernst.com

Dixee

“My name is Dixee, and although Valentine’s Day has come and gone, this month I’m still on a mission to find my perfect Valentine! I’m a big hunk of love who enjoys leisurely strolls around the neighborhood and long cuddle sessions at night. They say that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and I couldn’t agree more—treat me to something delicious and we’ll become fast friends!”

Dixee is presented to San Francisco Bay Times readers by Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, the SF SPCA’s Co-President. Our thanks also go to Krista Maloney for helping to get the word out about lovable pets like Dixee.

To meet Dixee, as well as other pets seeking their forever homes, please visit: San Francisco SPCA Mission Campus 250 Florida Street San Francisco 94103 415-522-3500 Aside from major holidays, the adoption center is open Mon–Fri: 1–6 pm and Sat–Sun: 10 am–5 pm. Free parking is available for those wishing to adopt!

For more information: sfspca.org/adopt

As Heard on the Street . . . What is your special talent?

Dr. Jennifer Scarlett and Pup

compiled by Rink

Beverly Lee

Gisela Beckermann

Elizabeth Bachman

Hugh Groman

Scott Tsui

“My ability to help connect people to other people.”

“I’m a person who motivates and is positive, who encourages people to see all that’s good in their life.”

“I provide presentation skills to make speakers into stars of communication.”

“I have an extreme non self-consciousness.”

“I am able to connect with people in a deeper fashion, as a coach, speaker, and trainer.”

WEDDINGS (continued from page 12)

KRAMER (continued from page 21)

• A living will, which expresses your intentions regarding the use of life-sustaining measures in the event of terminal illness.

acters, male and female, all seem to be in various stages of arrested development. It becomes difficult to sympathize with them, even when they deserve it, because they never seem like real people, however, true their behavior is.

You and your partner should review your estate plan every few years or when you experience significant life events, such as marriage or children; as your estate value increases; or as your financial goals change.

Also: Same-sex married couples qualify for the unlimited marital deduction, which allows a surviving spouse to avoid potential estate taxes upon his or her spouse’s death.

7. Discuss a Prenuptial Agreement Why it’s important: This can be a diff icult topic to address, since it implies the relationship may not last. But it’s an important way to help protect each person’s personal wealth.

What to discuss: Discuss what assets each partner will bring into

the marriage and how those, as well as future earnings or assets, might be split in the event of a divorce. Your attorney can help you both determine if this document is appropriate for your situation.

Also: Discussing a prenuptial agreement could help facilitate other conversations about finances and your relationship.

Planning Can Have Its Payoff Discussing these financial topics before you decide to get married can help you walk down the aisle with a firm financial foundation underfoot—and set the stage for financial harmony in your relationship.

We can provide guidance and information to help you with this important conversation.

Meghan Railey is a San Francisco-based financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors (https:// www.wellsfargoadvisors.com/).

That said, the few magical realistic elements in the film, involving orgasms and candles, are quite charming.

Given its episodic nature, Graham’s well-intentioned film probably plays better as a television series than a feature. She coaxes ingratiating performances out of her co-stars. Stephanie Beatriz is infectious as the high-energy Candy, and Angela Kinsey has some amusing moments as Eva. Ultimately, however, Half Magic is more important than it is good. The message that women need to stand up and speak out for themselves is as timely than ever. If this film’s exaggerated humor gets that point across, it is not half bad. It’s just a shame Graham’s film isn’t better. © 2018 Gary M. Kramer Gary M. Kramer is the author of “Independent Queer Cinema: Reviews and Interviews,” and the co-editor of “Directory of World Cinema: Argentina.” Follow him on Twitter @ garymkramer S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

25

WINTER SPORTS

Gay Olympians Standing Strong and Proud

The KiAi Way Jamie Leno Zimron Two gay American athletes, f igure skater Adam Rippon and freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy, made heroic headlines even before the 2018 Olympic Winter Games began. They both refused to meet with Vice President Mike Pence, chosen by Donald Trump to be the official leader of the U.S. delegation in Pyeongchang, South Korea, or to attend any postOlympics celebrations traditionally hosted by the White House. Adam Rippon, standing brave and proud, told the press: “I would absolutely not go out of my way to meet somebody who I felt has gone out of their way to not only show that they aren’t a friend of a gay person but that they think that they’re sick.”

On The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Kenworthy questioned what he called the strange choice of Pence to lead the Americans, and then via Reuters said, “I am very proud to represent the U.S. but I don’t stand by Trump and his cabinet … I do not want to feign approval for policies that are in place and things that are being pushed at the moment.”

During the Games, Adam’s skating has been sequined and spectacular.

He hasn’t held back an iota of his outspoken, wonderfully over-the-top personality and passion for his sport, the U.S. team, and the entire Olympics experience. An article for Outsports

by Cyd Zeigler declared: “Adam Rippon is allowing America to love a (really) gay athlete.” NBC tried to hire him as a commentator for his delightfully sassy smarts, but he chose to stay close with his teammates.

While Gus wasn’t able to match his 2014 silver medal, the kiss he shared with his boyfriend just before one of his runs was caught live on TV and went viral. He tweeted: “Being here now, out and proud and living my life authentically, I’m walking away more fulfilled without a medal than I did at the last Games with one.”

Courageously combining their athleticism with activism, both Adam and Gus are earning gold as amazing agents of social breakthrough and transformation—and have told Pence to eat his heart out!

Rippon and Kenworthy are Olympic leaders in the charge against this administration’s virulent anti-LGBTQ attitudes and policies. For the record, Mike Pence has said he’s “a Christian, Conservative and Republican, in that order.” He supported a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, which he defended not as discrimination but as enforcement of “God’s idea” of marriage. (Seriously). He opposed repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, even when top military personnel wanted it gone. Heedless of rational American business leaders, he opposed the 2007 Employment Non-Discrimination Act protecting gay rights in the workplace.

As governor of Indiana in 2015, Pence signed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to allow businesses to refuse service to LGBTQ customers. He wants to deny gay people not only as employees, but as consumers.

26

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Trump, against all of his own campaign pronouncements and promises, has proven to be actively anti-gay. A recent Vox article calls Trump a “giant con,” who campaigned as a friend of the gay community yet has “directed its army of federal lawyers to take the anti-LGBTQ side in court cases … and done some extraordinarily petty things, like refusing to recognize Pride Month.”

Along with his racist and homophobic Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Trump is courting the evangelical agenda to take away LGBTQ protections and to legalize discrimination in health care, social services, employment and housing, business—anywhere they can concoct in the name and guise of so-called religious freedom. Their latest attempt, just weeks ago, is the formation of a new “Conscience and Religious Freedom Division” in the federal Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights. It would let medical services actually be denied to gay and transgender people.

With painful irony, we all need to be reminded of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, when there was an international outcry and movement to boycott the Games in protest of the draconian anti-gay measures Vladimir Putin was instituting. Those punishing policies have only escalated over the past four years, resulting in terrifying human rights abuses and the jailing, suicides and homicides of scores of our brothers and sisters in Russia and neighboring countries. I looked back at my San Francisco Bay Times Olympics’ article published exactly four years ago, and want to share some of what I wrote then. It is important to remember how Putin’s policies were sending shivers through us all, gay and straight alike: “Anyone, gay or not, can be fined or thrown in jail for expressing support for us—much less being us! Teenagers are isolated and bullied; kids can be taken from LGBTQ homes; and homophobic hatred, harassment and violence are all on the rise. In St. Petersburg, local organizers of a film festival and the American makers of the Oscar-winning Milk movie had to persevere through 5 bomb threats to do a screening. It is all a brutal and shocking legal reality threatening the most basic human rights and physical safety of people in Russia—and of the thousands of LGBTQ athletes, family, friends, coaches, fans, and straight allies arriving now in Sochi.”

Fortunately, there have been no such threats in Pyeongchang, and gay athletes like Adam and Gus are shining in and beyond their sports and moving history forward. In just these four years, however, we find ourselves living through the most shocking and bitterly ironic reality going on right here in America. Every day in the U.S. now, we are facing new threats to the well-being and very lives of LGBTQ people—along with immigrants and non-white citizens—at the hands of our own leaders, Putin-style.

Given the confirmed Russian meddling in our elections, major messing with the very foundations of our democracy, and Trump’s affinity for authoritarianism and for Putin himself, this is all profoundly troubling in our own country and to people the world over.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEAM USA

Pence rejected President Obama’s directives for transgender people to use the bathroom that fits their gender identity. He is fiercely anti-abortion and does not support women’s control over their own bodies and lives.

Further, he warns that homosexuality and marriage equality are bringing about “societal collapse” through “the deterioration of marriage and family.”

Forbes quoted Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn telling CNN at her 4th Olympic Games: “I take the Olympics very seriously and what they mean and what they represent, what walking under our flag means ... I want to represent our country well. I don’t think that there are a lot of people currently in our government that do that.”

We are beginning to see more brave Olympians like Vonn who are standing together with Rippon and Kenworthy. A number of Philadelphia Eagles champions declined to attend the annual Super Bowl celebration at Trump’s White House. These courageous athletes are making a difference, together with fans everywhere, by speaking out and standing up in the face of the daily assaults on so many communities by the dangerous waves of xenophobia emanating worldwide from Washington.

There are a record 13 publicly out gay Winter Olympians in Pyeongchang, including, for the first time, elite male as well as female athletes. Here is a list of these awesome athlete-activists (thanks to LGBT Olympic historian Tony Scupham-Bilton): 1. Emilia Anderson Rambolt, ice hockey player and 2-time Swedish Olympian, married her wife Anna Ramboldt in 2015.

2. Belle Brockhoff, snowboarder from Australia, came out prior to the Sochi Games in protest of Putin and his oppressive laws in Russia.

3. Brittany Bowe, U.S. speedskater, is dating fellow competitor Manon Kamminga from the Netherlands.

4. Jor ik Hendr ick x, Belg ium figure skater, came out just last month.

5. Daniela Iraschko-Stolz, ski jumper from Austria, is married and won a silver medal in Sochi.

6. Barbara Jezeršek, cross country skier who competed for Slovenia in 2014 and Australia this year, told Outsports: “It’s hard to come out no matter that we live now in a more open world. At the end of a day it’s all about sport and we do it with biggest passion.

But if we can share it with our partners it’s even better.”

7. Gus Kenworthy, slopestyle free skier from the U.S. and a 2014 silver medalist, is one of NBC’s “faces of the Games.”

8. Cheryl Maas, Dutch snowboarder and 3-time Olympian, is married to former Norwegian snowboarder Sine Brun Kjeldaas, and is co-mom to their two daughters Lara and Mila.

9. Simona Meiler, 3-time Olympic snowboarder from Switzerland, likes being out to reduce stress: “[Athletes] have to be ready to give everything and perform wholeheartedly, and in my eyes that’s only possible if they can accept and express their sexuality … and if an athlete’s closer environment is supportive and encouraging.” (continued on page 30)

WINTER SPORTS

Snow Sports: Get the Sensation

Photos courtesy of Jon Leonard

community, are there in full force, not to mention all the glamorous accessories, decorations and costumes that we bring. Hey, we have to look fabulous gliding down that fresh powder or lounging in front of the fire, right?

Sports John Chen You know those York Peppermint Patty commercials when the average Joe bites into one and is immediately transported to a snowy, pristine and magnif icent mountaintop? It’s the sensation like you are actually there, a place in your dream and a place you want to be. Bite into a York and feel the cool, crisp fresh air, and smell that natural evergreen. You know how you can get that sensation without paying $1 for a patty (when I was a kid, a patty was only 25 cents, sigh)? Come closer. No, closer! Shhh ... don’t tell anyone. Get into your car, preferably an AWD/4WD, and head to the mountains.

Have you ever wondered how those guys get down from the mountaintop after biting into a York? Well, they ski or snowboard down, of course! Did you know the discovery of snow sports coincidentally came after the invention of York? Hmm, something deep to ponder. I’ll give you a moment.

All joking aside, we are still in winter—Spring officially starts on March 20—and snow sports in Northern California have kicked off with celebrations and parties. Popular destinations such as Tahoe and Mammoth are painted with the colors of the rainbow because we, the LGBT

Fellow native Southern Californian Jon Leonard traded his surf board for a snowboard after venturing into Northern California mountains. The need for speed combined with the Zen-like white slopes became an easy sell for Jon. A lover of crazy weather, Jon explained that the beach, although beautiful, was always crowded and sunny, a constant that can be boring and stale. The mountains during winters, on the other hand, are not only majestic, but also unpredictable. Weather can change on a dime, creating instant whiteout f lurries, grey ambiguity and contrasting blue.

Longtime friend Thomas Dunseath tells me that being in the mountains feels very spiritual and even surreal, like he is in another world. Whether skiing or boarding, the exhilaration of gliding f luidly downhill through a winter wonderland cannot be matched. There’s always a place on the slopes where you can be alone, look out onto the snowy peaks and observe the world, observe yourself.

Jon tells me that there are several LGBT-based snow sports organizations that host major events, weekends, celebrations and even provide assistance and equipment. Locally, Truckee SnowBros (Facebook) provides snow reports, conditions, and a community forum where LGBT ski and snowboarders can find and help one another.

Internationally, there are major LGBT events such as Snow Bums, Gay Ski Aspen and Whistler. Elevation is another major sponsor of LGBT ski and boarding parties with Elevation Mammoth as the largest local event. You can easily find all of

these groups via Google search. Jon emphasized that you don’t have to know how to ski or board to participate. These events and groups are a great way to meet other riders from all over the world. Friendships are forged and sparks ignite, especially at the hot tub and pool parties when the sky turns to night.

Last, but not least, there’s the total and complete amateur or novice like

myself awkwardly stumbling down the bunny slope—the slope for kids and beginners—even after $2,000 worth of ski lessons. Nevertheless, like Jon and Tom, the beauty, majesty and the dreamlike state of the mountains call to me, bringing me great inner peace as I fall once again on my big black and blue buttocks. Unfazed, I ignore the chuckles of all the kids around me.

So, if you’re like me, stand tall and proud after such moments. Head to the lodge. Then get yourself a hot chocolate with extra marshmallows and sit in a hot tub where you can look out onto a winter wonderland.

John Chen, a UCLA alumnus and an avid sports fan, has competed as well as coached tennis, volleyball, softball and football teams.

Winter Olympics 2018 Takes LGBT Sports Movement to the Next Level Winter to me means lows in the 50s, a handful of days of rain, and that’s about it.

Perhaps that’s why, despite being a lifelong sports fan, I’ve never really understood the appeal of the Winter Olympics. They just seemed so ... cold and un-relatable to someone who couldn’t stand up on skates or make it ten feet on a pair of skis if their life depended on it.

Tom Temprano I’m about as much of a temperateweather loving California native as there is. Having grown up in sunny SoCal and spent my whole adult life in San Francisco, I’ve only been in active snowfall a half-dozen times.

athletes competing for the United States in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

Though they’ll only go home with one medal between them, both of them have accomplished something rare if not unprecedented in sports—they’ve won the hearts, minds and loyalty of millions and millions of fans by being 100% out and 100% themselves.

To be honest, I didn’t even know that they were happening this year until mid-January. This makes the last couple weeks all the more astonishing.

I’ve gone from a total ignorance of the games to complete obsession because of two athletes: Adam Rippon and Gus Kenworthy.

Gus made headlines and wooed the internet with the seen-round-theworld kiss he planted on his boyfriend’s lips in front of NBC cameras, a first of its kind moment in any Olympic games. For those of us who follow him on social media, we’ve also seen nearly daily posts of him celebrating his queerness. Those have been as inspiring as anything we’ve seen on the slopes.

As I’m sure you know by now, Adam and Gus are two of the out LGBTQ

Adam has fulf illed his self-prophecy of becoming America’s sweet-

heart faster and more thoroughly than anyone would have thought possible. Though his pre-Olympic feud with Vice President Pence elevated his name prior to the games, his performance on and off the ice is what has now made him a household name.

From blowing kisses to the judges to choosing a gay club jam to skate to, he has been completely queer and completely himself from the moment he set foot in South Korea.

I’ve gotten emotional watching them on TV these past two weeks because I see some part of myself on screen with them. Even more than that, I get emotional when I imagine the millions of little queer kids across the country sitting in front of their TVs watching them too and feeling like—despite what some kids say at school, or what someone in their family might say—

that who they are is not just OK, but something to be celebrated.

Watching an unabashedly out superstar twirling his way to fame and glory, and watching a burly guy kiss his partner in a moment of triumph, validates each of us queer people and has made these Olympic games something truly special.

Tom Temprano was elected to the City College of San Francisco Board of Trustees in 2016, making him the city’s youngest elected official.

He also owns Virgil’s Sea Room, a small business in the Mission District, and is a member of the San Francisco LGBT Community Center Board of Directors. Follow him on social media at twitter.com/tomtemprano & facebook.com/tomtempranoSF

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

27

COMING UP

Compiled by Blake Dillon

CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS sfbaytimes.com

22 : Thursday MBSK (My Brothers/Sisters Keeper) Equity Workshops @ African American Art & Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street. As part of its ongoing MBSK Equity Workshops, the SF Human Rights Commission and African American Historical and Cultural Society present this series on changing the narrative around African American success and life outcomes. 10am– 1pm. Additional programs on February 23 and 28. San Francisco Human Rights Commission on Facebook NightLife Spotlight @ California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park, 55 Music Concourse Drive. With a spotlight this week on coral reefs, Academy experts will lead science exploration activities. A variety of food and beverage options will be available, including special cocktails.

There will be music, and artist Nigel Sussman will discuss what inspired his work. 6–10pm. calacademy.org

Anniversary Monarchs’ Reception @ HA-RA Club, 875 Geary. This event is one among the week-long schedule of activities leading up to the SF Imperial Council Coronation weekend. It will be hosted by Emperor John Carillo and Absolute Empress Misty Blue.

6–8pm. imperialcouncilsf.org Megabytes! The Musical @ Shelton Theater, 533 Sutter Street.

A world premiere musical comedy revue by Morris Bobrow on the frustrations, annoyances and occasional joys of tech. 8pm, through March 3. goldstar.com

23 : Friday A Shirley Chisholm Story: Unbought & Unbossed, The Stage Play @ Birel L. Vaughn Theater, 3201 Adeline Street, Berkeley. BRG Mainstage Productions presents a retrospective journey into the life of Shirley Chisholm leading up the the presidential campaign of the first African American woman to win

the Democratic Party’s nomination.

8pm. Continues through February 25. blackrepertorygroup.com Angela Davis OUTspoken Exhibit @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street. The new exhibit includes rare posters and ephemera tracing the turbulent history of activist and radical thinker Angela Davis. Continues through May 20. glbthistory.org Question Bridge: Black Males @ Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak Street, Oakland. A selection of videos featuring more than 160 black men from across the U.S., answering each other’s questions on family, love, interracial relationships, community, education and wisdom.

Wednesdays through Sundays through February 25. museumca.org Words, Women and Wisdom Book Salon @ Berkley location provided with RSVP. An ongoing series of book-related events hosted by authors Bev Scott, Jan Schmuckler and B. Kim Barnes.

4–7pm. Book Salon - Words, Women and Wisdom on Facebook San Francisco Chamber Orchestra @ Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Avenue. This free concert will present music by Dvorak, Brahms and Villa Lobos in a mostly woodwinds performance. 7:30pm. thesfco.org Theatre Rhinoceros’ Transitions Opening Night @ Gateway Theatre, 215 Jackson Street. Written and directed by John Fisher, this new work features a transsexual, a Russian President and an American President in a story about gender and sexuality in the world of geopolitics.

Continues through March 17. therhino.org UHAUL SF @ Harlot, 46 Minna Street. The monthly party for girls who love girls, featuring Jibbz and China G. 10pm–2am. UHAUL SF on Facebook

24 : Saturday Breast Cancer Awareness Rendezvous Fashion Show @ IDESST Sausalito, 511 Caledonia Street, Sausalito.

Spring 2018 fashions by professional models, musical entertainment, light 28

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

refreshments and all in support of Breast Cancer Awareness education and research. Emcee Charles James and DJ Richard Habib. 4–7pm. salonuptown.com San Francisco Imperial 54th Coronation @ San Francisco Design Center, 101 Henry Adams.

“Emerald City” is the theme for the penultimate event of the Imperial annual calendar when the new Empress and Emperor are crowned and an audience of royals from councils of many states is on hand to celebrate. 5pm–12am. imperialcouncilsf.org Company Wang Ramirez presents Borderline @ 101 Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley. Partners in life and performance, KoreanGerman dancer Honji Wang and French-Spanish dancer Sébastien Ramirez explore the complexities of human relationships and modern identities through their inventive dance-theater aesthetic. 8pm and repeats at 3pm on Sunday, February 25. calperformances.org Eddie Izzard “Believe Me” @ Silver Legacy Resort & Casino, Reno.

The internationally known entertainer and author will bring his unique brand of humor to Reno as he reflects on the loss of his mother, boarding school, alternative sexuality and his life in comedy, film, politics, running and philosophy. 8pm. silverlegacyreno.com

25 : Sunday Annual Cemetery Pilgrimage @ Woodlawn Memorial Park, Colma. Members and friends of the Imperial Court visit the graves of Emperor Norton and Absolute Empress I, The Widow Norton.

Pick-up points at the Holiday Inn Civic Center (8am) and The Cafe, 2369 Market Street (8:30am). imperialcouncilsf.org The Barbary Coast Cloggers - Clogging Classes @ Oberlin Dance Commons, 351 Shotwell.

Lessons every Sunday for beginners at 3:30pm progressing to intermediate and advanced levels.

3:30–5:30pm. barbarycoast.org Randall Museum @ Randall Museum, 199 Museum Way. Following a $9 million renovation, the Museum, long noted as an LGBT family friendly space, has reopened.

10am–3pm. Tuesday through Saturday. randallmuseum.org Sunday’s A Drag @ The Starlight Room, Powell Street. Hosted by Donna Sachet, the event features a brunch and a troupe of entertainers.

It is described as “The Greatest

Drag Show in San Francisco,” and we agree that it is great! Two shows every Sunday at 11am and 2pm. starlightroomsf.com

26 : Monday Trans Voices! @ Strut, 470 Castro. Featuring Star Ah Mer Ah Su, Kay Nilsson and others, the event presents genderqueer artists of all levels from beginners to professionals. 8–10pm. strutsf.org Hey Girl! Bingo! @ Laszlo, 2526 Mission Street. Shelix presents eight rounds of bingo with music by DJ Cansafis and food and drinks available from Foreign Cinema. 7–9pm. Hey Girl Bingo on Facebook BPM (Beats Per Minute) and Tom of Finland @ Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street. This two-day double-feature opportunity repeats on February 27. BPM presents the story of a group of Parisian ACT UP activists. Tom of Finland is a biopic about the life of artist Touko Laaksonen whose perseverance and courage carried him though two decades before his work was embraced with the sexual revolution of the 1970s.

27 : Tuesday Sister Circle @ Openhouse, 55 Laguna. A monthly 4th Tuesday event for women-identified LGBTQ community members to make new connections in a luncheon setting.

12–1:30pm. sylvia@openhouse-sf.org The Velvet Rage Book Club @ Strut, 470 Castro Street.

Part of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation’s Stonewall Project, this book club explores the complexity of gay identity and culture, HIV, substance use, healing relationship trauma, shame, internalized homophobia and much more.

Facilitators are Wade Smith and Christopher Zepeda, and the featured author is Alan Downs.

4–5:30pm. strutsf.org Call Me by Your Name @ Castro Theatre, 429 Market Street.

Nominated for four Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor, the film presents a cinematic adaptation of Andre Aciman’s coming-of-age novel. 1:30, 4:15, 7, and 9:30pm. castrotheatre.com

28 : Wednesday Photosynthesis: Love for All Seasons @ San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers, 100

JF Kennedy Drive. A series of artistic illuminations are presented nightly through Spring. Sundown to midnight. conservatoryofflowers.org

selected periodicals published from the 1950s to the 2000s, from the museum’s periodicals collection.

7–9pm. glbthistory.org

Fighting Back: Finding the Bisexual in LGBTQ @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street.

A multigenerational panel of historians, organizers and younger activists will discuss bisexual representation, discrimination and activism in the Bay Area since the 1960s. 7–9pm. glbthistory.org

Friday Music Video Party Night @ White Horse Bar, 6551 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland. A video music party every Friday night at the historic White Horse in Oakland.

9pm–2am. whitehorsebar.com

Tapata Trivia Round UP! @ Wild Side West, 424 Courtland Avenue. Kit Tapata hosts the weeklyon-Wednesdays trivia competition mixed with music and live improv at the popular Bernal Heights location.

7–9pm. tapatatwins.com

Friends of Harvey Milk Plaza Community Meeting @ Most Holy Redeemer Parish Hall, 100 Diamond, Street. Neighbors and stakeholders are encouraged to attend for direct discussion with FHMP and representatives from Perkins Eastman-San Francisco, the firm selected to re-imagine Harvey Milk Plaza. 3–4:30pm. friendsofharveymilkplaza.org

March

1 : Thursday Montclair Women’s Big Band @ California Jazz Conservatory’s Fiddler Annex to the Jazzschool, 2040 Addison, Berkeley. The Fiddler Annex’s Grand Opening Week will include a concert by this legendary Big Band led by Ellen Seeling and Jean Fineberg. 8–10pm. cjc.edu/concerts/?eid=25292 “Follow The Money” Lecture @ Harvey Milk Photography Center, 50 Scott Street. Featured speaker Jennifer L. Stoots, a certified photography appraiser, has more than 16 years of experience in her unique field. 6:30–8pm. harveymilkphotocenter.org SFFD Neighborhood Emergency Response Team (NERT) Training @ Multiple locations. San Franciscans are encouraged to consider the volunteer and training opportunities and learn disaster skills as individuals and as members of emergency response teams. Times vary. Check schedules and info. sf-fire.org/ training-schedule-registration Sundance Saloon @ 550 Barneveld Avenue. Country-western dancing for the LGBT community and friends (21+) every Thursday.

5–10:30pm. sundancesaloon.org

2 : Friday Rotunda Dance Series: Dance Generators @ San Francisco City Hall. A monthly lunchtime event where audiences enjoy music and dance from around the world.

Presented by Dance Generators.

12pm natalia@dancersgroup.org or dancersgroup.org/rotunda Opening Reception for “Best Photo” Photography Exhibition @ Harvey Milk Photo Center, 50 Scott Street. 5:30– 8:30pm. Opening event for the exhibit presented by Through the Lens & Harvey Milk Photo Center. harveymilkphotocenter.org MAX SF March TGIF @ Eclipse Bar & Lounge, Hyatt Regency Hotel, 5 Embarcadero Center, 3rd Floor. A social gathering for men. 20s to 80s attracting 100+ to enjoy libations, conversation and meeting eligible men. 6pm. maxsf.org Blame Sally @ Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison Street, Berkeley.

LGBT community favorites Pam Delgado and Jeri Jones perform with bandmates Renee Harcourt and Monica Pasqual. They will present country-pop ballads, rock and roll barn-burners and more in the electrifying Blame Sally style. 8pm. thefreight.org “Empowerment in Print: LGBTQ Activism, Pride & Lust” Exhibit Opening @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street. The new exhibit, highlighting

3 : Saturday

Melissa Etheridge - Rock the CASA @ Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Dan Ashley, Channel ABC7 anchor, presents a charity concert featuring LGBT icon Melissa Etheridge. Ashley is a longtime supporter of the annual AIDS Walk in San Francisco. The concert will benefit CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children, Friends of Camp Concord, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area.

8pm. rockthecasa.org Country Nights - Women’s Partner Dancing @ Lake Merritt Dance Center, 200 Grand Avenue.

This first Saturday event includes waltz, line dancing, Latin, swing and more with lessons at 7pm and doors open at 8pm. countrynightsdance.com

4 : Sunday Community Women’s Orchestra’s International Women’s Day Concert @ Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland. Music Director Dana Sadava leads CWO into its Season 33 - “Here to Play and Here to Stay” with a program featuring music by Haydn, Mendelssohn, Alexandra Du Bois and Amy Beach with a reception following. 4pm. communitywomensorchestra.org Academy of Friends 2018 Gala @ City View at Metreon, 135 4th Street. Watch the 38th Annual Academy Awards Night Gala benefitting HIV/AIDS services in the Bay Area, and enjoy the large variety of food tasting selections and cocktails. 5–11pm. academyoffriends.org My Lai presented by Kronos Quartet, Rinde Eckert and Vân-Ành Võ @ 101 Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley. A fully staged production presents the story of the massacre 50 years ago of Vietnamese villagers by American soldiers at the town called My Lai. 7pm. Contains strong language and a hauntingly beautiful score. calperformances.org The Waiting Period @ The Marsh San Francisco, 1062 Valencia Street.

Brian Copeland’s award-winning work addressing his struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts.

5:30pm Sundays through March 4. themarsh.org

5 : Monday Seismic Safety Workshops @ Openhouse, 55 Laguna Street, 2nd Fl. Community Rm. A six-part series of workshops begins where you can find out how to be better prepared for potential disasters and emergencies. 3–4pm. amy@openhouse-sf.org 40 Plus Men’s Group @ Oakland LGBTQ Community

Center, 3207 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland. A new monthly (1st Monday) multi-ethnic support group for men 40 and over. 7–8:30pm. oaklandlgbtqcenter.org Mister Sister Mondays @ Midnight Sun, 4067 18th Street.

Rupaul’s Drag Race RUviewing Party.

9pm–2am. midnightsunsf.com

6 : Tuesday Queer Youth Meal Night @ SF LGBT Center, 1800 Market Street. For LGBTQ youth 18–24, the event provides networking with community service providers from LYRIC, Larkin Street, HRTC and Street Soccer USA plus dropin mental health services. 5pm on Tuesdays. sfcenter.org Queer and Trans Open Mic @ Oakland LGBTQ Community Center, 3207 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland.

Presented by Spectrum Queer Media and hosted by Kin Folkz and Blackberri, the event provides a safe, alcohol and scent free space for transformative collective self-care with the LGBTQIA2S and Authentic Ally community. 7pm on Tuesdays. oaklandlgbtqcenter.org

7 : Wednesday LGBTQ+ People of Color Yoga @ Oakland LGBT Community Center, 3207 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland. The event is held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month. 6:30pm. oaklandlgbtqcenter.org Charles Busch: My Kinda 60’s @ Oasis, 298 11th Street. The awardwinning and beloved entertainer’s new show finds him telling tales from his childhood and adolescence and singing songs from Broadway to Pop. 7pm and again on February 8. sfoasis.com

8 : Thursday International Women’s Day Brunch @ Openhouse, 55 Laguna.

Join participants of the Sister Circle and the Koffee Klatch for a brunch discussion for women-identified folks. 10am. openhouse-sf.org NightLife Spotlight @ California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park, 55 Music Concourse Drive. “Curious Creatures NightLife” is the theme as Academy experts are on hand to present the tentacled, the slimy and the lumpy. Along with music, a variety of food and beverage options are available including special cocktails. 6–10pm. calacademy.org Colorful & Unconventional: A History of San Francisco’s Queer Art Scene @ GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street.

Jeff Gunderson, librarian and archivist at the San Francisco Art Institute, and former SFAI library staffer Jim Van Buskirk will discuss the unconventional characters associated with SFAI, including faculty and alumni, plus other artists and personalities. 7–9pm. glbthistory.org Women’s History Month Comedy (On International Women’s Day) @ Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center, 1317 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley.

Comedian/comedy producer Lisa Geduldig returns to Ashkenaz with a multicultural line up of ChineseAmerican, Indian-American, Venezuelan and Jewish comedians: Irene Tu, Priyaka Wali and Eloisa Bravo. 8–9:30pm. ashkenaz.com RuPaul’s Drag Race Showing @ Oakland LGBTQ Community Center, 3207 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland. Held every Thursday.

8-10:30pm. oaklandlgbtqcenter.org S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

29

ADELMAN (continued from page 8) program was developed and implemented.

4) Recommendation: Increase care planning and care coordination by developing and implementing an LGBT older person case management and peer specialist program.

Solution: Funding was provided for a Case Management program.

5) Recommendation: Increase supportive services that address the emotional, behavioral, health and social isolation challenges by developing and implementing an LGBT older adult peer counseling program and an LGBT peer support volunteer program.

Solution: A prevention program is now up and running.

6) Recommendation: Increase LGBT older adults’ utilization of existing Alzheimer’s and dementia care services by developing and conducting LGBT/ dementia competent training for service providers and older adult serving organizations to be more effective in serving the LGBT community and create and conduct an LGBT community targeted education and awareness campaign.

Solution: Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California and Nevada has partnered with LGBT older adult serving non-profits to develop and conduct training and an awareness campaign.

7) Recommendation: Increase financial literacy by developing and implementing a financial literacy training targeting LGBT older adults.

Solution: Training was developed by the Department of Treasury and the Office of Financial Empowerment.

8) Recommendation: Improve eviction and homeless prevention protections for LGBT older adults by increased funding to existing programs with flexible subsidy pools.

Solution: Funding was increased in 2015.

ROSTOW (continued from page 19) 9) Recommendation: Increase availability of affordable housing welcoming to LGBT older adults by prioritizing developments that target the LGBT community and improve access to affordable housing by providing LGBT focused housing counseling programs.

Solution: Funding was increased to the existing LGBT focused housing counseling program.

10) Recommendation: Improve legal protections and resources for LGBT older adults in long term care facilities by passing legislation that protects clients with clear guidelines and offers support for enforcement.

Solution: The LGBT Senior Care Facilities Bill of Rights was unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors in March of 2015.

11) Recom mendat ion: P romote LGBT life planning legal clinics targeted to LGBT older adults to ensure future life wishes are followed.

Solution: Implementation and funding are in progress.

Recommendations Waiting Implementation 1) Improve unsafe and unhealthy conditions in SROs through improved policies and enhanced work on habitability.

2) Improve safety of LGBT older adults in city shelters by providing LGBT targeted shelter services and implementing culture competency training for shelter staff.

Marcy Adelman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in private practice, is co-founder of the non-profit organization Openhouse. She is also a leading advocate and educator in LGBT affirming dementia care and a member of the Advisory Council to the Aging and Adult Services Commission.

or religious freedom? The first story generated by the Post algorithm was a vaguely related piece about a bigoted county clerk. Still.

Bermuda Square I was disgusted to see that Bermuda governor John Rankin went ahead and signed the bill that repeals courtordered marriage equality on the island territory and replaces it with domestic partnerships. And there’s nothing the U.K. government can do about it without undermining its hands-off role in territorial affairs.

“The Act is intended to strike a fair balance between two currently irreconcilable groups in Bermuda, by restating that marriage must be between a male and a female while at the same time recognizing and protecting the rights of same-sex couples,” said Bermudian home affairs minister Walton Brown, unconvincingly.

Brown added that Bermuda “will continue to live up to its well-earned reputation as a friendly and welcoming place, where all visitors, including LGBT visitors, will continue to enjoy our beauty, our warm hospitality and inclusive culture.” Um, cough-cough, I don’t think so, Mr. Minister. I wouldn’t take a trip to Bermuda if you paid me and sprung for the hotel.

Among other things, the despicable National Organization for Marriage (NOM) is apparently taking a lot of credit for helping pass the measure “behind the scenes.” I can’t bring myself to call up their website, but that is reportedly where they’ve been crowing about their inf luence. Go ahead and check for me, thanks.

I suppose there’s something heartening about the fact that NOM has been reduced to lobbying for domestic partnership bills in Bermuda. But I abhor them all the same.

Mark Pettingill, the lawyer who successfully sued to win marriage equality in the first place, is now challenging the domestic partner law. In a motion filed February 16 against the island’s Attorney General, Pettingill says his client, a single Bermudian man who lives in the U.S., would like to marry in Bermuda sometime in the future. I’m not sure how the law works over there, but I doubt this petitioner would have standing in an American court. I wish him luck anyway.

Immigration Goons Nab Legal Husband of U.S. Citizen In one of the most unbelievable deportation cases yet, the Mexicanborn husband of an American citizen was taken away and tagged for deportation after he and his husband went to the immigration office to fill out the paperwork for spousal immigration. Jose “Ivan” Nuñez came to this country illegally eight years ago and has worked under the radar. Although Nuñez has no criminal record, he originally did get caught trying to enter the U.S. illegally, and was sent back. He then crossed into the country successfully. As far as I understand it, he is categorized as someone who has already been deported and he was thus targeted for immediate arrest, detention and removal from the U.S. Nuñez married Paul Frame in April 2016, and later began the process of applying for a green card as the spouse of an American. The process requires a couple to come into an immigration office for an interview to make sure that the marriage is legitimate. At one point during this interview in West Philadelphia on January 31, Frame was asked to step out of the room, which he assumed meant the agents wanted to ask the men separate questions. Instead, Nuñez was placed in handcuffs and tossed in a holding cell.

It seemed the immigration off icials conducting the interview had seen that Nuñez had been “deported,” and had called their brothers in arms at ICE. Oddly, they then proceeded to approve the spousal status, but Nuñez remains in the tank as of February 19. I’m assuming that his lawyer and his husband will get him released, but in this America, who knows?

Ooops Finally, I have to apologize for managing to completely overlook a major piece of news last month, to wit the decision by a Wisconsin school district to settle its transgender bathroom case to the tune of $800,000; $650,000 to the lawyers, and $150,000 to high school student Ash Whitaker. The case, which ended with a major trans rights victory from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, was originally appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. As such, I’ve been mentioning it every now and again as a potential blockbuster. I looked for it on the petitions docket the other day and couldn’t find it, but mindlessly went on to other things. At any rate, the case is closed.

I have a feeling, however, that we are far from done with Title IX lawsuits, those that argue that forcing transgender students into (for them) opposite sex bathrooms is a form of sex discrimination, illegal in public schools under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Just a short time ago, a spokeswoman for the Department of Education told Buzzfeed’s Dominic Holden that the Trump administration does not believe Title IX requires schools to accommodate transgender students as far as bathrooms and locker rooms are concerned. The Seventh Circuit might have something to say about that. arostow@aol.com

ZIMRON (continued from page 26)

KIT’N KITTY’S

QUEER POP QUIZ ANSWER (Question on pg 21) D) Hawaii Hawaii was the first state to recognize limited legal same-sex unions, doing so in 1997 in the form of reciprocal beneficiary partnerships.

10. Sarka Pancochova, snowboarder from the Czech Republic, similarly talks about how helpful it is not to hide anymore. This is her third Olympics and she says she’s “stoked” to be out for the first time!

11. Eric Radford, 2-time Olympic pairs figure skater from Canada, is engaged to be married. He came out after winning silver in Sochi and says he’s not afraid, even though judging in his sport is so subjective. He also shared the benefits of being a gay skating partner, joking that he’s “the ultimate pair-boy” since so many skaters get romantically involved off-the-ice and relationship tensions can risk their on-ice performances.

12. Ireen Wüst, speed skating “royalty” from the Netherlands with gold medals in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 Olympics, plus 3 silvers in Sochi. Openly bisexual, she married Letitia de Jong in 2017.

13. Adam Rippon, who came out in 2015 and is the first openly gay American figure skater, almost didn’t make the team. He broke his foot last year, nearly quit skating 4 years ago, fell on the opening jump of his free skate, and is the first Olympic skater his age (28) in 82 years.

Out of 2500 Winter Olympians in 2014, only 6 were openly gay, which works out to 0.0024%. Thankfully that number has doubled this year and is primed now to rise higher. But we have a very long way to go, given that LGBTQ people make up 10% of the general population yet are nowhere near 10% of professional sports teams or Olympic delegations. Transgender athletes continue to be barred in many competitions, and none have been chosen or hired to compete at the highest or even lower levels of sports.

As during the 2014 Olympic protests against Putin, my hope in today’s outcries against the backwards homopho-

30

SA N FRANCISCO BAY T I ME S

FE B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

bia of evangelicals like Pence, Trump and their “base,” is that more Americans will take notice and shift the way they think about gay athletes and all LGBTQ people. Again, from my 2014 San Francisco Bay Times article (since I couldn’t say it again better myself!): “The sports world remains one of if not the hardest places to be queer, or to come out.

More brave LGBT athletes are daring to share their sexuality publicly, but it’s still only a trickle. The number of out-athletes remains fractionally tiny, because it’s still a very perilous road for them, their performance, their careers and endorsements.

As we sit in the comfort of our homes watching TV, let’s root for human rights and equality to take the torch and triumph in these Olympic Games. Let’s give our loudest cheers to known LGBT athletes and straight allies from any nation, who are willing to take a stand against discrimination and oppression, and for the true ideals of all humanity … And let’s look for ways we ourselves can stand up in support of full human rights for every athlete and person on the planet.”

Olympic competitors have been told not to bring their political views and feelings onto medal podiums. At the same time, the International Olympic Committee has said that they are free to express themselves away from official venues, and in their own press conferences and social media posts.

Let’s support them as they come out, compete, and speak out, and take our own stands right alongside these great athletes of our critical times. Thank you, Adam Rippon and Gus Kenworthy, for speaking out and leading the charge with the force of your Olympian talents, courage, authenticity and sweet love!

Jamie Leno Zimron is a Corporate Speaker, Executive Trainer, LPGA Golf Pro, and 6th Degree Aikido Black Belt. Watch for Part 2 of this article next month, “Standing Centered and Strong,” and please check out her website: thekiaiway.com

Professional Services

N ewPer spec ti ves Center for Counseling

SISTER DANA (continued from page 22) the “National Anthem” blown on the horn by KDK member Aaron Priskorn..

Celebrity Grand Marshal Mark Leno spoke a few kind words of praise for our fundraising club, and then led the traditional Second Line Parade as we marched and sang throughout the premises to “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In.” Patrick Barresi, Larkin Street Youth Services Program Manager at AC/ AC HIV housing space, talked about the function of Larkin Street Services. ACT I brought out King II Mark Paladini, Carlos Medal & Rick Latulippe with Mark singing “River Deep Mountain High” with his dancing pot joints accompanying. Queen II Deana Dawn lip-synched “Weed Instead of Roses,” while King IX Tony Leo acted as her dealer. King X Kippy Marks played “Captain’s Delight” on his electronic violin. KDK Member Miss Chief lip-synched “New Americana” with a confetti gun. Special Guest Ethel Merman live sang the hell outta a mash-up of “Purple Haze” & “Panama.” Rock on!

After a small intermission, Act II got underway. KDK Member Donna Sachet sang “Time Heals Everything.” King XII John Weber & Company sang “Mary Jane” and “Give It to Me Baby.” KDK Member Veronica Guevara as Tawdry Hepburn gave us “Marijuana (Please Do).” Queen VIII Garza executed some sexy Peruvian dance and lip-synched “Malambo No. 1.”

KDK Member Kelly Rose had a marijuana green face to do “Cover Girl” for High Times. KDK Queen XIV Lady Cuki Couture did a

riveting “Take Me Higher.” Speeches were given for the Step Down of King XIV Barry Miles & Queen XIV Lady Cuki Couture. The height of the night was the Crowning of KDK King XV Gooch & Queen XV Miss Chief. Congratulations! KDK Finale was a tableau of all us Kings and Queens, plus a Tribute to our Saints Above KDK Members: “Fly Away.” There was dancing until 9:30 pm, and then KDK King XV Garaje Gooch and Queen XV Miss Chief invited us all to celebrate at The Edge bar after the Bal Masque.

Then on Mardi Gras FAT TUESDAY, all the Krewe de Kinque members and friends went on a festive bar crawl throughout the Castro—decked out in our finest purple, gold, and green Mardi Gras colors in costumes, masks, beads, banners, and parasols. We started out at 440 Castro, then QBarSF, to Lookout for special Hurricane cocktails, then Beaux, off to The Café, over to SF Mix, and closing down the bar at The Edge. It was truly Laissez les bons temps rouler: let the good times roll!

Oh honey, we ROLLED!

community advocates on February 14 on the mayor’s balcony to sign legislation that will require all-gender restrooms in Single Room Occupancy hotels in San Francisco. What a lovely Valentine’s Day gift!

With friends, supporters, and volunteers gathered in the Castro, MARK LENO officially kicked off his campaign for Mayor of San Francisco and opened his headquarters at 2390 Market Street to the public on February 17. Leno is a small business person, former CA State Senator, Assemblyman, and District 8 Supervisor. The “housewarming” event featured games, drag performances, and special guest speakers Board of Equalization Member Fiona Ma, Assemblymember Phil Ting, Supervisors Sandy Lee Fewer and Aaron Peskin. markleno.com Sister Dana sez, “It’s the Year of the Dog, and the annual SF Chinese New Year Parade is on February 24. Here are some other great events I’d like to ‘parade’ before you.”

But was that not enough for us Krewe de Kinquesters? Nope, because on Saturday, February 17, we held a beer/soda bust fun fundraiser at The Edge with many gorgeous guest performers. Don’t miss our next KdK party at The Edge on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 4–7 pm. You can bet your shillelagh THIS Irish nun will be decked out in green!

Due to popular demand, SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS is offering up a limited number of “show only” tickets for CRESCENDO at the Fairmont Hotel on Saturday, February 24. Come see Bob the Drag Queen, Neon Trees’ Tyler Glenn, Mary Lambert, Andrew Lippa, and more perform—for only $100! Get your tickets at sfgmc.org/crescendo

Mayor Mark Farrell joined Supervisors Hillary Ronen, Jeff Sheehy, the Office of Transgender Initiatives and

Written by four-time Tony winner Terrence McNally (Ragtime), IT’S ONLY A PLAY thrusts you into the middle of the behind-the-scenes she-

nanigans of a Broadway play. Beginning March 2nd through April 1st, it’s the opening night of hilariously harried playwright Peter Austin’s new play, and everyone has gathered at the daffy producer’s townhouse to await the reviews. Joining Peter are his television producer best friend, a hilariously washed-up Hollywood diva, a lethal drama critic, and more. Don’t miss this sharp satire about the business of big-budget theater, replete with impromptu selfies and celebrity take-downs galore, at San Francisco’s NEW CONSERVATORY THEATRE CENTER, 25 Van Ness & Market. nctcsf.org TRANSITIONS by John Fisher is a world premiere about a Russian President, an American President, and a drag queen in this story about gender and sexuality in the world of geopolitics. It’s a surprising relationship between a young Republican and a no-nonsense drag queen almost setting the world on fire. In a moment of international crisis, this romance might just save the planet, as Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are about to find out. A satirical drama ripped from the world’s headlines in the tradition of filmmakers Billy Wilder and Oliver Stone.

Playing February 24th through March 17th at Gateway Theatre (formerly The Eureka Theatre), 215 Jackson Street (at Battery). therhino.org Curator and artist Catherine Merrill has returned to BACK TO THE PICTURE/ VALENCIA STREET in an exhibition, PARADISE LOST, focusing on the human figure. After last year’s highly successful exhibition, Catherine

has enlarged her roster and collected all new works for the show.

Come to the Closing Reception with the artists on Saturday, February 24, 6–9 pm at 934 Valencia Street.

Artists showing include Jane Fisher, Sylvie Guillot, Susan Kirshenbaum, Catherine Merrill, Stephen Namara, Fernando Reyes, Rick Rodrigues, & Michael Ruiz. backtothepicture.com Join ACADEMY OF FRIENDS for their 38th Annual AWARDS NIGHT GALA, UNDER THE BIG TOP, with ticket sales benefitting HIV/AIDS services in the San Francisco Bay Area. In typical Academy of Friends’ fashion, everyone at the event will enjoy food provided by the Bay Area’s finest restaurants and caterers, wine and champagne by amazing vintners along with a fun way to watch the 2018 Oscars. Sunday, March 4, 5–11 pm at City View at Metreon, 135 4th Street. academyoffriends.org Sister Dana sez, “Trump sheds his ‘crocodile tears’ over the horrendous Florida school shooting, while never mentioning guns but emphasizing mental health. But Donald, you have taken over 21 million dollars from the National Rifle Association, and your Repugnican buddies’ budget utterly slashes mental health care.

Hey, Congress, when WILL it be the appropriate time to address sensible gun control?!

Maybe after the 19th school shooting this year?!”

Sister Dana sez, “If you’re fed up with a lack of common sense gun control, go to” everytown.org

S AN F R ANC IS C O BAY T IM ES

F EBRUARY 22, 2018

31