YOSEMITE
A Nation in Distress
About Our Cover
A powerful response to the Trump administration’s cuts to the National Park Service took place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, when Yosemite National Park staffers hung a massive American flag upside down at the top of El Capitan. Displaying the nation’s flag in this manner is a sign of anguish or extreme danger for the country or the individual(s) flying the “distress flag.”
In this case, the display conveyed both meanings. So many of us, and especially those who are transgender, have been adversely impacted by the Trump administration’s recent executive orders and the cuts to vital services made by billionaire Elon Musk and the new so-called Department of Government Efficiency.
As part of those actions, at least 1,000 national park workers have been fired. These were people who worked to maintain and clean parks, to educate visitors, and who performed other essential functions.
Consider this: the annual budget of Yosemite National Park—one of the nation’s great treasures with iconic features such as the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome—has had an annual budget of about $30 million dollars. Roughly that same amount was spent in February to allow President Trump to visit the Super Bowl and the Daytona 500.
The beauty of Yosemite is appreciated by visitors of different political party affiliations, and it is hard to imagine that even staunch Republicans are unreservedly supporting the cuts to Yosemite’s staff and budget and the country’s other national parks. The cuts have already resulted in chaos, with visitors experiencing long lines, canceled rentals, and other problems. There have even been calls to close Yosemite to help preserve it and to minimize the risk of its destruction in light of the cuts.
The distress flag on El Capitan, which has an elevation of 7,573 feet, evokes the present state of our country and the National Park System. As a result, it resonated with many of us. Here, at the San Francisco Bay Times, we encourage you to read Joanie Juster’s piece and to take action as she instructs. We will continue to follow the resistance movement as it continues to form and strengthen.
In Case You Missed It
Joanie Juster
As a child during the Cold War, I saw news of coups and revolutions in other countries, and heard concerns about revolution happening here at home. I was worried that tanks would soon be rolling down our quiet little suburban street in sleepy Santa Clara. But recent events have made it clear that no one needs to send tanks down every street in order to cause massive upheaval to life as we
know it.
It has now been over a month since the new administration—and its unelected enablers in DOGE—have seized control of our government, with the endgame of destroying it from within. They are in full rampage mode, gleefully slashing federal agencies and programs, firing thousands of federal employees, wreaking retribution upon their real and perceived opponents, alienating our allies, and burrowing deeper and deeper into the computer systems that are essential to the safe and efficient running of our country.
The United States of America that we once knew is no longer. And these folks are just getting started. History tells us that when authoritarian regimes take control, it is going to get much worse before it gets any better.
It is damned hard to fight against an opponent who simply doesn’t care about the rules of engagement—or, frankly, any rules. This is now a street fight. Those of us who care deeply about our Constitution, the rules and values upon which our country was founded, and the rule of law, are at a disadvantage.
Their inherent lawlessness makes the battle infinitely harder.
But that doesn’t mean we should simply give up. And it doesn’t mean we won’t win. But we must find ways to resist, every day, in every way possible.
Taking It to the Streets and Elsewhere
The good news is that resistance to all of this is building every day, as more people are becoming aware of what is happening to our country, and are becoming emboldened to step up and act. People are flooding lawmakers’ phone lines, and taking their protests to the streets. A call to protest on February 17, Presidents’ Day, led people throughout the country to protest in big cities and small towns alike, many of them in subzero weather. More calls for public protests are popping up on social media every day.
There are many, on both sides of the political spectrum, who discount the efficacy of protest rallies and marches. And while I agree that marching by itself may not solve the problems we face, I can attest to the fact that boots on the ground and eye-catching
messages on signs can be a powerful tool in our resistance toolkit. People call their elected officials unseen, from the privacy of their homes, but protesters in the streets are visible. Their images get amplified by mainstream and social media platforms, giving encouragement to others to join the movement.
Each of us has different talents, different abilities, and different availability. None of us can do it all, but if we each do something, our power will grow. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, one of the most prominent leaders of resistance in Congress, urges us to fight, saying, “Every day our job is to wake up and say, ‘What can I do today?’ There is no act too small. Every action matters.”
Each day more resources are being created to help us all find actions that we can do. Here are a couple to get you started; I’ll share more in each Bay Times issue:
5 Calls - 5 Calls is a nonprofit that has built an app that makes it easy to take one of the most effective actions available to us: calling
Employee and funding cuts at Yosemite and other national parks by the Trump administration have sparked protests and heightened concerns about the future of some of America’s greatest national treasures.
A Nation in Distress
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our elected representatives to speak out on issues that are important to us. Their team researches issues; writes brief, effective scripts; and directs you to your representatives’ phone numbers. It’s easy, powerful, and effective. Make your calls every day. https://5calls.org/
Protect Democracy - Protect Democracy is a nonpartisan nonprofit working to defeat authoritarian threats, safeguard elections, and build a stronger democracy. They have many great resources on their website, but one of the most urgently needed is a page specifically for federal workers: “What Federal Workers Can Do to Protect Themselves.” Share this link with all federal workers: https://tinyurl.com/ProDemFed Meanwhile, Voting Rights
Because the MAGA folks know their policies and tactics are not popular with the general public, they realized that the only way they can win elections is to make it harder for people to vote. They have reintroduced the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility) in the U.S. House of Representatives—legislation that would place an undue burden on voters by requiring all Americans to prove their citizenship status by presenting documentation in per-
son when registering to vote or updating their voter registration. For most Americans, that would mean providing a passport or birth certificate. The thing is, more than 140 million Americans do not have a passport. And as many as 69 million women who took their spouse’s name don’t have a birth certifi cate that matches their legal name. And many transgender people don’t have the kind of documentation that would be required. Then there’s the issue of having to present this information in person for voter registration, a change of address, or party affiliation. For seniors, nondrivers, people with disabilities, or, simply the 60 million people who live in rural America, this could prove very challenging.
The SAVE Act is bad legislation masquerading as a solution to a problem. But it is actually a power grab by a party that knows it cannot win on a level playing field. Call your elected officials and encourage them to fight this bad legislation. For more details on the SAVE Act, go to https://tinyurl.com/SAVEAct25
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow? Not on Our Watch
Some of the most egregious undertakings of this administration and their cohorts are their callous efforts to simply erase everyone and everything they don’t like. Their efforts
more about this in future columns, but it is up to all of us to stand up and speak out against this erasure of LGBTQ+ people. Silence is not an option.
On a Personal Note: Sisu
What’s happening to our country is a lot to take in. The cruelty is crushing. The speed with which so much of what we as Americans have been able to rely on is being gleefully destroyed and is terrifying and disorienting.
I have always tried to remain calm and hopeful. I try to stay focused on solutions, and uplift others around me. But recently I admitted on social media that despair had finally gotten to me. My fighting spirit was gone; I had no words of hope or encouragement to share.
Then something beautiful happened. Friends from every corner of my life responded with love and support. Many also
sages, I felt hope and strength returning. My friend Ruth—one of the most fiercely badass activists I know—reminded me of one word that has sustained me since I first heard it 30 years ago: sisu. Sisu is a Finnish word, but more importantly, a uniquely Finnish characteristic. Look up “sisu,” and the first thing you will learn is that it cannot be translated directly into English, as it is so much more than just a word.
Sisu refers to a level of perseverance, courage, and strength that goes above and beyond. Sisu means keeping your head about you and acting rationally when up against impossible odds. Sisu is more than acting courageously in the moment: it means sustaining that courage for the long haul, as long as it takes. Sisu is never giving up. May we all find the sisu within us.
Joanie Juster is a long-time community volunteer, activist, and ally.
A Nation in Distress
GLBT Fortnight in Review
Mudville at MSNBC
I’m sorry to say that my news phobia has continued, so I don’t know what to make of the shakeup at MSNBC, the channel I once flipped on at daybreak and watched until cocktail hour. Sometimes I even turned it on in the afternoon as well. (Cue: rimshot.)
But seriously, I have switched my attention to the odd stories in the recesses of the paper. I click on articles about dark skies in Scotland or the promotional efforts of Meghan Markle. The TV comes on for sports or detective shows only. Quick glances inform me of the latest outrages, and I’ll also pursue any headline that warns of division or problems with Trump or Musk’s activities. But that’s it.
This fundamental shift has dried up my fairly rich store of current information, yet even thus impoverished, I now courageously prepare to draft my GLBT column. We could start by delving more deeply into the new case that the Supreme Court accepted for review in January. Alternatively, we could ask ourselves why Meghan has changed her new brand from “American Riviera” to “As Ever.”
“Some of you may have heard whispers about what I’ve been creating,” the Duchess explains in a video. “I’m thrilled to introduce you to As Ever—a brand that I created and have poured my heart into.” She adds, “This new chapter is an extension of what has always been my love language, beautifully weaving together everything I cherish— food, gardening, entertaining, thoughtful living, and finding joy in the everyday.”
I’ve never had a strong opinion about Harry and Meghan, but in my new world, it seems important to start judging. New chapter? What was the previous chapter? Why would anyone be “whispering” as if Markle’s revised brand name was worthy of excited speculation? How could she have “poured her heart” into the new brand when she spent the last year or more hyping the previous brand? I hate the now-hackneyed expression “love language.” We all cherish food, entertaining, thoughtful living, and finding joy. These are not specialized areas, and if they are, that’s why we have Julia Child, Martha Stewart, books, and caviar. So there.
To Arms, Citizens!
My wife just sent me a Washington Post article about transgender Americans buying guns. The Post interviewed a dozen trans men and women who were arming themselves, and reported that a new subreddit for “transguns” has drawn 2,500 new members since the election. Wake Forest professor David Yamane, a sociologist who studies gun culture, tells the paper that “anecdotal accounts” indicate the phenomenon “is absolutely happening.”
I can understand the impulse, although sta tistics make clear that, if anyone is harmed by the gun you just bought for yourself, it’s likely to be you or a family member. Further, what exactly are people planning to do with these firearms? Kill those who are hostile to transgendered men and women? Even in the midst of Trump’s attacks on the trans community, the chances of actually being in a life or death situation are vanishingly low. (That said, they’re a lot higher for trans people than are the odds against cisgender citizens.)
I’m guessing that the trend reflects the combination of rage and fear that Trump and company provoke, and I’m also guessing that other groups are visiting the gun shops— women, minorities, immigrants, gays, lesbians. Whatever the actual dimensions of this Trump-inspired pistol packing, it adds to the simmering violence, distrust, and madness that now underlie our society.
James Carville recently suggested Democrats lay low and wait while the Republicans self-destruct, and I appreciate the strategy. Guys? Keep your powder dry.
No Disaster
Moving elsewhere, while I was about to look up details of the new Supreme Court case, I just fell into an article about losing things that, naturally, made a reference to the Elizabeth Bishop poem “One Art.” (My friend Jill sent me Bishop’s biography, which I recommend highly.) That sent me to a lengthy analysis of the poem itself, which included some handwritten notes that Bishop typed before she started.
“HOW TO LOSE THINGS/ ?/ THE GIFT OF LOSING THINGS?” What? Did she think those could be good titles? What follows are prosaic jottings that seemingly can’t have been written by the genius who penned “One Art.” But what I eventually recognized was that genius has a process.
Elizabeth Bishop didn’t sit down on a sunlit patio with a glass of wine, write: “the art of losing isn’t hard to master,” pause for a sip, put her pen in her mouth, and frown for a minute before continuing. She crafted her famous villanelle from the raw materials of her mind and history and it probably took weeks and weeks. (I should look that up.)
Anyway, this is obviously beside the point, but let’s say the poem is taught to high school students in public schools. The last stanza reflects Bishop’s gay heartbreak, the loss of a woman’s love. And let’s say one of those students comes home and discusses the class with his conservative Christian parents. Would his parents then be able to claim that the school district deprived them of their free exercise of religion by teaching the work of a gay woman, or by indirectly presenting a lesbian scenario? Would they claim their right to parenting had been infringed?
The question is not far from the one posed
ing dragons, a puppy lost at the pride parade, a girl with a crush on a friend, a trans boy coming out to his parents, and a niece meeting her uncle’s male fiancé. At first, the district allowed parents to opt out, but eventually it became too cumbersome due to high numbers. Legal precedent indicates that schools may not coerce religious speech or action. But just because a student doesn’t agree with something discussed in school does not mean the school is violating his or her constitutional rights. Indeed, parents can’t complain about every little thing with which they might disagree, particularly something that’s passively presented in the classroom. As such, a lower court ruled against the complaining parents, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit backed up the lower court. It’s never good news when the Supreme Court accepts review of a civil rights or, in this case, First Amendment victory.
the closet, and although they have enlarged it to include double shelves, a special shoe area, four mirrors, and a little velvet bench in the center, the notion that school kids might discover we are part of the real world is not to be indulged.
Who Let the Alpha Dogs Out?
Here’s part of the reason the far right has put our community in its crosshairs. What would you think if I told you that people identifying as “LGBTQ+” have tripled in the 12 years that Gallup has tracked sexual orientation? It’s true. The pollsters question 14,000 Americans by phone every year about everything. And obviously they’re not using landlines.
(They stopped relying exclusively on home telephones after last year’s results led to headlines like: “Gallup Finds 78 percent of Americans Have Mobility Problems and (continued on page 16)
2025 Tax Changes: What’s New and What You Need to Know
Money Matters
Brandon Miller
Ever wondered how our federal tax code came to be? Well, in 1909, progressives in Congress added an income tax provision to a tariff bill. Conservatives tried to block it, thinking that 75% of states wouldn’t ratify the amendment. To their surprise, the 16th Amendment passed in 1913, granting Congress the authority to impose a federal income tax. Back then, less than 1% of the population paid income taxes, and the rate was just 1% of net income!
Fast forward to late last year, when the IRS shared details about more than 60 tax provisions that will impact taxpayers when they file in 2026 for the 2025 tax year.
These annual inflation adjustments don’t cover everything, but here are a few key highlights to keep in mind as we prepare for 2025:
Tax Brackets – These are shifting, so your taxable income (after deductions) will be taxed at new rates. Keep in mind, this doesn’t include tax credits or self-employment tax.
Standard Deduction – For single filers and married individuals filing separately, the deduction will rise to $15,000 in 2025 ($400 more than 2024). For married couples filing jointly, it’s going up to $30,000. Heads of households can expect a $600 increase, bringing it to $22,500. If you’re 65 or older, there’s an extra bump in the standard deduction too!
Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption – The exemption amount for unmarried individuals will be $88,100, and it begins to phase out at $626,350. For married couples filing jointly, it’s $137,000, phasing out at $1,252,700.
Child Tax Credit – This remains at $2,000 per qualifying child, though the refundable portion will stay at $1,700.
Gift & Estate Exemption – This rises to $14 million for individuals (up from $13.6M in 2024) with an annual gift tax exclusion of
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Protecting What Matters Most
Trust Essentials
Jay Greene, Esq., CPA
Show your love by securing your family’s future. Estate planning is more than just legal documents—it’s a commitment to protecting those you cherish most. Whether you’re planning for a spouse, partner, children, pets, or a loved one with special needs, taking action today ensures peace of mind for tomorrow.
Why Estate Planning Matters in San Francisco
Living in the Bay Area comes with unique financial and legal challenges. With high property values, complex tax considerations, and evolving laws, San Francisco residents must plan carefully to safeguard their assets and provide for their families.
Here’s how you can take control of your legacy:
1. Wills and Trusts: Essential for SF Homeowners
If you own property in San Francisco, a will and trust are crucial. With real estate prices among the highest in the nation, proper planning can prevent costly probate and ensure your home stays in your family.
Why It’s Important
• A trust allows your loved ones to bypass probate, reducing legal fees and delays.
• A will ensures your wishes are honored, from asset distribution to guardianship decisions.
• These documents protect against disputes over high-value assets common in the Bay Area.
2. Power of Attorney and Healthcare Directives: Navigating California’s Healthcare System
California’s complex healthcare system makes advance directives essential. If you become unable to make decisions, having a power of attorney and healthcare directive ensures someone you trust can step in.
Why It’s Important
• A power of attorney lets a trusted person manage your finances if you’re incapacitated.
• A healthcare directive ensures your medical preferences are followed at top Bay Area hospitals like UCSF and Stanford Health.
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Message from Leadership
By Nancy Geenen, MA Ed., J.D.
After the U.S. Supreme Court decision In June of 2023 to end affirmative action in college admission practices, these companies, Meta (Facebook), McDonald’s, Walmart, Ford, Tractor Supply, Harley Davidson, Lowe’s, John Deere, Amazon, and Target, among others, have completely eliminated, scaled back, or rebranded their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, citing the changing legal landscape as a reason for the shift.
Companies like Apple, Costco, JP Morgan, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, and e.l.f. Beauty are among those publicly “doubling
DEI Efforts Under Attack
down” on their DEI commitments, actively defending their DEI programs. These companies are choosing to stand by their policies even when facing shareholder proposals against them.
Since that time, the current administration has taken further steps through executive orders, administrative action, and now litigation to further eliminate programs that businesses use to expand opportunities for people of color, women, immigrants, and LBGTQ+ individuals.
In Missouri v. Starbucks, the Missouri Attorney General seeks to strike down the most common DEI programs that companies use to expand opportunities for these historically
GGBA Member Spotlight
Misha Safran is a trilingual ICF Professional Certified Coach, international speaker, and award-winning leadership trainer with a combined professional experience of more than 35 years. In 2022, she founded the Center for Empathy and Emotional Intelligence (CEEQ), a Northern California-based organization.
GGBA: Please tell us about the CEEQ.
Misha Safran: Our Differences Don’t Have to Divide Us: At CEEQ, we nurture deep peace, effective communication, and harmony among groups, cultivating sustainable and positive relationships. Our mission is to promote sustainable inclusivity and cohesion
marginalized and underrepresented groups. The Missouri suit alleges that the DEI programs are a pretext used by Starbucks to commit unlawful discrimination against “qualified” white male candidates and employees. The activities alleged to be discriminatory include mentorship programs, affinity-based employee resource groups, hiring and promotion quotas for achieving parity in leadership, and executive bonuses tied to achieving company diversity goals.
Finally, the suit alleges that “Missouri consumers are required to pay higher prices and wait longer for goods and services that could be provided for less had Starbucks employed the most qualified workers. In a statement to
Misha Safran of the Center for Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
through empathy, emotional intelligence, and joy in the workplace and beyond. CEEQ aims to improve team dynamics and foster self-leadership through CAPE©: Compassionate Communication, Assuming Positive Intent, Principles of IDEAB, and Empathy before Accusation. Our keynote talks and leadership trainings promote open dialogue, individual belonging, and the role of empathy and emotional intelligence in creating positive, joyful environments.
Our vision is to help over one million people feel seen, heard, valued, and understood.
GGBA: Why did you decide to create the CEEQ?
Misha Safran: When people get stuck in extreme thinking, they rely on accusation and assumption, over understanding and curiosity. This creates perpetual conflict, which, in turn, causes deep hurt and long term damage in relationships. It is time to stop this trend of “hurt people hurting people.”
In order to support people to compassionately acknowledge their human experiences and those of others, CEEQ helps them to focus on leaning into the “yes and,” and centering empathy and emotional intelligence. At CEEQ, we want to see a world where people strive to be a better version of themself each and every day to create connection, enhance healthy collaboration, and effectively increase
currency: time, energy, and money.
GGBA: Who are some of your role models, and especially those who helped to influence your business?
Misha Safran: Martin Luther King, Jr., Mother Theresa, Michelle and Barack Obama, Audre Lorde, Maya Angelou, Carol King, Helen Reddy, my parents, and my wife. They are my role models because they have contributed to the world in peaceful and loving ways impacting people across the globe with compassion and loving determination!
GGBA: Why did you decide to join the GGBA, and how long have you been a member?
Misha Safran: I joined GGBA to meet other small businesses and to help each other grow. I was also looking for support to create more ways to support my community since many of my clients are in the Queer community. It is very important to me to be able to offer referrals to services who also value Queer people.
GGBA: How has being a member of GGBA helped your business so far?
Misha Safran: It has helped me stand up and claim who I am and what I do. I have been able to meet people and practice being boldly visible, which, in turn, has helped me in other networking or pitching situations.
GGBA: Do you go to the GGBA monthly Make Contact networking events? Have they benefited you and your business, and would you recommend them to others?
the press, Starbucks states that its “programs and benefits are open to everyone” and the “hiring practices are inclusive, fair, and competitive and designed to ensure the strongest candidate for every job every time.”
How do we combat these policies as we hunker down in the greater San Francisco Bay Area where our state, city, and county rights are unlikely to be trimmed back?
First, we must remember that we are employers. As employers, we can continue our efforts to create an inclusive and positive workforce. We must explicitly state that we do not discriminate based on age, color,
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Misha Safran: I haven’t been able to make many of them because of the distance from my home or scheduling conflicts. Evenings are difficult for me, especially when a long drive is in the mix. However, when I have attended, I have loved meeting new people, seeing the ones I had met before, and learning about their businesses.
GGBA: What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of starting their own business?
Misha Safran: It takes grit, but if you have a dream and you are willing to put in the work, don’t let anything stop you but do not do it alone. There is a huge community of people and so many wonderful resources, free and at a cost. Seek them out! It can only help you.
GGBA: Is there anything else that you would like to share?
Misha Safran: At CEEQ, we really want to bring more joy into the world and especially into the lives of Queer, BIPOC, and differently abled folks. Please consider reaching out to me to organize a “Joy Wellness Retreat: Laughter Yoga and More” for your company, community, and/or your family. We look forward to supporting you to maintain joy amidst adversity!
https://www.ceeq.org/
The GGBA page is sponsored by Anne Sterling Dorman
Roland Schembari and Bill Hartman, Co-Founders
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Black History, Queer Resistance, and the Audacity of Possibility
As we mark Black History Month, I am reminded of the proud and long tradition of Black leadership at San Francisco Pride. This is no footnote to history—it is a testament to resilience, to the audacity of possibility, and to the Black leaders who have made our movement what it is today, and who ensure that Pride remains a place of resistance as much as celebration.
By Joshua Smith
When I accepted the role as President of San Francisco Pride last October, I did so knowing that I stood on the shoulders of the Black queer pioneers who came before me. Ken Jones, an African American president of Pride, fought tirelessly for equity, justice, and community empowerment. His legacy continues in the Ken Jones Awards, given to those individuals who, like him, exemplify the spirit of courage and activism.
I also think of Calvin Gipson, another Black leader who served as President of San Francisco Pride. Nearly 25 years ago,
Calvin wasn’t satisfied with the status quo. He pushed for greater representation from the community and for Pride to be more than a single event—to be an ongoing conversation that truly reflected the diverse voices of our people. His leadership created different stages and spaces at Pride that celebrated different cultural identities so that Black and Brown communities had their own stages. It is in the same tradition that we celebrate 25 years of the Soul of Pride Stage, an institution of Black life, Black joy, and Black resistance founded by Lisa Williams, at San Francisco Pride. This stage—cultivated, fostered, and led by
African American community members—has been a haven for artists, activists, and dreamers. It is a testament to what can happen when we will not be erased, when we demand to be visible, and when we make our own space within a movement that has not always had room for us.
San Francisco Pride has also been shaped by leaders like Williams, a mentor, a visionary, and someone who has worked in nearly every role at Pride over the years. She has worked to ensure that Black voices remain at the forefront of the conversation. More recently, Mayor Carolyn Wysinger, one of our past presidents, brought her own energy and dedication to expanding Pride’s reach and impact—just as she now brings that same leadership to public office in El Cerrito. These names, these legacies, remind us that we did not arrive here alone. Pride is not just about looking forward; it is also about remembering where we have been and honoring those who paved the way.
The Politics of Resistance and the Power of Joy
We cannot escape the realities of our time. We are witnessing today a wave of assaults on LGBTQ+ rights and Black communities, with over 200 executive orders from conservative legislators across the country, many designed to roll back our progress. This is no coincidence, but a strategy, what has been called a “shock doctrine”—taking advantage of upheaval to implement drastic, backward policies that leave the public stunned and disoriented while communities scramble to organize and fight back.
(3) at $1,553–$1,918/month Two-bedrooms (4) at $1,731–$2,706/month
Three bedrooms (1) at $2,847/month
Must be income eligible and must not own a home. Households must earn no more than the
Lottery applications must be received by 5PM on Friday, March 21, 2025. Apply online through DAHLIA, the SF Housing Portal at housing.sfgov.org. Please contact Arleen Luong at Ahsing Solutions for building information at (415) 680-3655 or leasing@ahsingsolutions.com
Units available through the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development and are subject to monitoring and other restrictions. Visit sf.gov/mohcd for program information.
But this is nothing new for Black people. We have endured centuries of systemic oppression, erasure, and policy designed to take away our power. And yet, in spite of all of it, we have not only survived but thrived. That’s why Black queer joy is resistance. We love, we dance, we celebrate—not despite the barriers in front of us, but in defiance of them. Black joy, Black boy joy, Black girl joy, Black them joy—all of it is resistance. This is what Black History Month is to me. It is a time to recognize that, even in oppression, we are still here.
Pride as a Space for Collective Action
Now, more than ever, Pride must be more than an event; it must be a movement. A movement that listens to the people, that grows, that diversifies, that never forgets where it came from.
We must fight for policies that save Black trans lives, that ensure our youth have safe spaces, that address systemic racism within LGBTQ+ spaces. We must continue to build
PHOTO BY RINK
Joshua Smith spoke at The Academy SF on Feburary 21 during the annual “Honoring LGBTQ+ Black Women Leaders” Divas & Drinks event.
Carolyn Wysinger
Lisa Williams
Calvin Gipson
Ken Jones
Joshua Smith
Openhouse + On Lok Are Revolutionizing Care for LGBTQ+ Seniors
By Grace Li
It has been an exciting year for Openhouse + On Lok Community Day Services, the first licensed adult day program in the nation created with and for the LGBTQ+ community. Since its launch in 2021, the program has garnered national attention for its innovation and commitment to LGBTQ+ seniors. Today, with strong, mission-driven partners and a dedicated community, we continue to develop a model of care that acknowledges and supports the needs of LGBTQ+ seniors like never before.
Helping LGBTQ+ Seniors Feel Seen and Supported
Openhouse + On Lok Community Day Services (referred to as Club 75) was born from the collaboration of two San Francisco nonprofits dedicated to helping vulnerable seniors age with independence— Openhouse, a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ older adults, and On Lok, which has pioneered aging programs for over five decades.
In the groundbreaking Needs Assessment of LGBTQ+ Senior Health in San Francisco— published by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Assistant Professor of Public Health Dr. Jason Flatt when he was an Associate Professor at the UCSF Institute for Health and Aging and released by Openhouse and On Lok—data showed that LGBTQ+ seniors are four times less likely to access aging services than other populations. One in five respondents felt unsafe or unwelcome in care settings; others reported difficulty accessing transportation to services and programs that did not reflect the LGBTQ+ experience.
Openhouse + On Lok Community Day Services was created to provide a trusted space where LGBTQ+ elders and their chosen families can receive care while being embraced as their authentic selves.
Participants call it “Club 75” because it is their center—a safe, affirming place for connection and community.
Located at 75 Laguna Street in San Francisco, the center features a spacious activity room, a warming kitchen, a library, and gender-neutral bathrooms with showers. The adjacent courtyard, shared with the Openhouse Community at 55 Laguna, provides a serene outdoor space with mature trees and picnic tables. Here, LGBTQ+ seniors can engage in a variety of activities,
receive firsthand assistance with personal care, access transportation to and from the program, and enjoy nutritious meals with peers. The program operates on a sliding scale fee structure, ensuring affordability for all, with scholarships available, including one specifically for HIV survivors.
Expanding Care for LGBTQ+ Seniors With Complex Needs
With the creation of Club 75, we aimed to deepen our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community by expanding care beyond the day center. The program now serves as an alternate care setting for LGBTQ+ seniors enrolled in On Lok PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), integrating services at Club 75 into their overall care plans.
On Lok founded PACE in collaboration with seniors, families, and community leaders to help vulnerable older adults avoid premature nursing-home placement. This nationally recognized model of integrated healthcare and social services provides low-income seniors with culturally sensitive medical care, transportation, day center activities, home care, and more.
Club 75 serves a unique and diverse population, with 95% of participants identifying as LGBTQ+. Our clients include long-term HIV survivors (22%), transgender individuals (12%), and those living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia (22%). Additionally, 29% of participants are enrolled in PACE.
As we continue to learn from our clients’ needs, we are using these insights to shape PACE as a culturally affirming health model that extends beyond the day center.
Advancing LGBTQ+ Care Through Collaboration and Advocacy
As the program grows, it has gained national recognition and fostered partnerships that drive its future. In 2024, the Openhouse + On Lok Community Day Services team pre-
Dr. Marcy Adelman oversees the A ging in Community column. For her summary of current LGBT senior challenges and opportunities, please go to: http://sfbaytimes.com/challenges-and-opportunties/
Home
sented at three national conferences, sharing our pioneering work at the American Society on Aging Conference in San Francisco (March); the National Ryan White Conference on HIV Care & Treatment in Washington, D.C. (August); and the National PACE Conference in San Diego (October).
With UCSF, we are conducting an evaluation of Club 75 to measure its impact and effectiveness. As we keep evolving and learning, we are hiring and training caregivers who can
provide culturally competent care for LGBTQ+ seniors. Our staff’s deep ties with the community enable us to deliver personalized support that speaks to the experience of our community members, for instance for individuals living with chronic conditions and HIV.
To further strengthen our efforts, we are currently developing a caregiver curriculum focused on long-term HIV survivors. In partnership with UCSF and the On Lok PACE behavioral health services team, we have implemented specialized training to enhance our caregivers’ ability to provide affirming care.
A recent milestone in our growth is a
(continued on page 14)
Alegre
Care is proud to support Dr. Marcy Adelman’s Aging in Community column in the San Francisco Bay Times.
Coronation LX
The Imperial Council of San Francisco held Coronation LX Neon Tropical: A Radiant Legacy with related events from February 19–February 23, 2025. The whirlwind of celebrations began with the annual In Town Show and Awards, this year held at Beaux SF. The following evening was the Anniversary Monarchs Reception hosted by Emperor John Carrillo and Empress Misty Blue at the HA-RA Club.
The 60th Anniversary Imperial State Dinner took place on Friday, February 21, at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA. The San Francisco Imperial Monarchs Entrance was at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner service at the formal attire event with “regalia requested.”
The Out of Town Show immediately followed the Imperial State Dinner. A social gathering was then held at Aunt Charlie’s Lounge hosted by Empress Galilea, Emperor Stephen Dorsey, and Empress Jackie Best.
Coronation 60 was held on the evening of February 22. Congratulations from the San Francisco Bay Times to the newly elected Emperor Ashle Blow and Empress Afrika America. Congratulations also go to Bay Times columnist and Absolute Empress XXX Donna Sachet, who was recognized on her 30th Anniversary with the Council.
The final three events—the Annual Cemetery Pilgrimage, Victory Brunch, and HAT (Hawaii, Alaska, Texas, Victory Show) Party at Blackbird Bar—rounded out this year’s Coronation LX festivities. To learn about future Council events, visit: https://www.sfimperialcouncil.org/events
Annual
Photos by Rink
Cemetary Pilgrimage
Photos by Bill Wilson
CBy Donna Sachet
ongratulations to the newly elected Emperor Ashle Blow and Empress Afrika America, crowned at the 60th annual Imperial Coronation Saturday night at the ballroom of the Hyatt Regency SOMA, decorated with tropical colors and filled with a capacity crowd dressed to the nines, crowned with jewelry, and wrapped in luxurious gowns. The evening was full of dazzling performances, including candidate numbers by Ashle, Afrika, and Todd Hotty, as well as a variety of anniversary presentations. Many courts across the continent sent representative monarchs, reflecting the ever-widening diversity within the International Court System. In addition to an especially complete set of San Francisco Emperors and Empresses, many absent for several years, we were particularly heartened to see leadership of other local organizations there, including the Reigning Grand Duke David Herrera and Grand Duchess Rosa De los Gallos, Nguyen Pham, past President of SF Pride, Miss GAPA, and various members of the Krewe de Kinque club.
It was Empress Linda Summers’ night with carefully chosen Command Performers, colorful stage attendants, lively emcees, and personal performances that exceeded all expectations. There is no better indication of a successful reign than a loudly supportive room at your step-down and Linda definitely had that. The Board of Directors presented several awards and announced new titles, including Marquis to the Imperial Family Michael Loftis, and announced that this year’s reign produced over $60,000 during the year for charitable purposes, a remarkable feat considering that this Empress served without an Emperor. Her last walk was emotional, meaningful, and crowd-pleasing.
Because it was the 30th anniversary of our reign with Emperor Brian Benamati, we were invited to perform. Having performed often during our year and many times since, we were determined to amaze the audience. We chose For Good from Wicked, singing live and demonstrating the genuine affection we still have for each other. Much to the shock of everyone, our costume reflected the Broadway show and recent movie, including green face paint, painstakingly applied by our dear friend Michael Loftis. It is hard to convey the powerful feeling of support and connection as we sang and looked out over so many familiar faces representing friendships forged over the past 30 years in this remarkable journey called the Imperial Court. We thank all those who traveled far and wide and took the time to attend and to show us such kindness. It is because of them that we truly have “been changed for good,” as the song says.
If you happened to see a crowd in Jane Warner Plaza early Sunday morning, the Imperial Court assembled there at the Rainbow Honor Walk plaque dedicated to José Sarria for our annual ceremonial cleaning of the plaque and a beautiful Empress veil tradition. Following that, our annual Pilgrimage to Colma to visit the gravesite of Our Beloved Founder José Sarria saw record attendance, supported by the SF Pride Band, the Queer Chorus of SF, and Night Ministry representatives. We proudly emceed the proceedings with our Emperor, somehow finding the energy to do so after a whirlwind weekend, even introducing my sweet puppy Peanut to the crowd. King Father Terry Sidie and Queen Mother Nicole Murray Ramirez recognized individuals with awards and encouraged the ongoing activism of all the courts. José would have been proud of the size of the crowd, the joyous spirit, and the whimsical humor he always loved.
“Who you are is beautiful and amazing.” —Laverne Cox
Friday, February 28
Dear San Francisco 1000th performance
Club Fugazi, 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd.
7:30 pm $79 & up
https://bit.ly/3QxZdpJ
Saturday, March 1
Mardi Glow Under the Sea Krewe de Kinque’s annual party/fundraiser
Benefits Rainbow World Fund’s Fire Survivors Migrant Aid Fund
The Cafe, 2369 Market Street
6–9 pm $15 & up
https://bit.ly/4397ibW
As the national political scene grows more and more frightening, especially for our LGBTQ+ Community, organizations like the Imperial Court face harrowing conflicts. What do we do when our basic rights are threatened, when our activities and events are ridiculed, and when our very existence is denied? The only answer must be perseverance. Surrender is not even a possibility. Just as the mythical Phoenix, symbol of San Francisco, rises from the ashes of disaster, we shall rise and reclaim the hard-fought results of years of civic engagement. Yes, true justice may be a pendulum, not always swinging in our favor, but as compassionate people, we must stay true to the dream of a “more perfect union.” And as we fight, the Imperial Court will
continue to provide enjoyable events and a caring family of likeminded people, continuing our 60-year tradition. Don’t lose hope! Don’t panic! Support each other!
Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist, and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com
PHOTO
Empress Donna Sachet and Emperor Brian Benamati
Donna Sachet, Absolute Empress XXX, and Brian Benamati, Emperor XXIII After Norton, who reigned together February, 1995–March 2, 1996, were among the Imperial Council members making the annual visit to the gravesite of José Julio “Empress Norton I” Sarria at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Colma.
Gary Virginia Is a Beacon of Light for San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ Community
Practice Makes Love Easy
Sir Kippy Marks
(Editor’s Note: Sir Kippy Marks has been a part of the San Francisco Bay Times team in various ways over the years, utilizing his many talents including his remarkable musicianship as a violinist of international acclaim. He has also been a columnist for the paper. This issue debuts a new column by Marks, Practice Makes Love Easy. We are proud to introduce it here, and to welcome him back as a regular contributor. Look for his column each month in the Bay Times.)
I started using the phrase “Practice Makes Love Easy” (PMLE) around 9+ years ago during the 1st administration of POTUS (45) D.J.T, as a way to help navigate my higher-self, on how to mentally and spiritually get through the tough times we were all about to face. I felt an overwhelming knowing that I had to continue in my ongoing efforts, to inspire joy, fortify spirit, have a healthy balance, and to maintain a stable peace of mind, for not only my inner authentic higher-self, but also for my fellow human family and for my community as a whole. How could I do this, and what could I do to perpetuate a continual practice of the art (one’s reality) of love and loving?
The phrase “Practice Makes Love Easy” suggests that love, much like any other skill or endeavor, improves with consistent effort and dedication. Just as athletes train to per-
fect their techniques or musicians practice to refine their craft, or freedom and democracies fight to stay free democracies, human relationships factually benefit from an ongoing active commitment and attention. I have found that love requires understanding, patience, and the willingness to learn and grow together.
By continually practicing acts of kindness, empathy, open communication, complete acceptance of individuals and communities, we the people can strengthen our bonds and create a more harmonious global connection. The phrase emphasizes the idea that love is not merely a passive emotion, but an active process that requires work, dedication, and persistence; consistency is key.
Furthermore, Practice Makes Love Easy highlights the notion that, over time, the challenges and complexities of human relationships become more manageable, as globally we are all partners in developing a deeper understanding of each other’s needs and desires. As humanity navigates the ups and downs of our universal journey together, we build resilience and find more effective ways to support and care for one another. Through practice, we learn to navigate conflicts with grace; we celebrate each other’s successes; and we cherish the moments of humanity and connections. In essence, the phrase encapsulates the belief that love becomes more fulfilling and effortless when all peoples are committed to continually nurturing and growing human relationships. All communities practice love in some fashion. We gather together for festivals, shows, performances, fundraisers, protests, and the overall doing of good deeds. A lot of this happens behind the scenes and out of the mainstream media, so with the help and continued support of the San Francisco Bay Times, I am extremely honored to shed light on individuals who do not get nearly enough recognition. This column is written to honor, to give gratitude for, to praise, and to give recognition to the countless unsung champions within our communities who practice the art of love on a daily basis. These individuals are true representatives of love in action and I am blessed to share these individuals, their stories and thoughts, and the loving deeds they serve within their communities.
This column will present select honorees with The PMLE Recognition Champion Award. Our inaugural award goes to Gary Virginia, who inspires, supports, uplifts, and builds bridges to love for so many of us every day and who practices love unbound. He is a beacon of light who shines brightly for our beloved community.
Kippy Marks: Who or what motivated you to become the community activist that you are today?
Gary Virginia: I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and both sides of my family were very compassionate and helped people in need. My mother raised me and my sister, ages 14 and 15, after a divorce. So, my desire to help others and develop a strong work ethic were ingrained at an early age.
When I moved to San Francisco in 1987 for a job at San Francisco State University, I witnessed the devastating HIV/AIDS pandemic. A year later I lost my best friend to the disease. We were good friends in Pittsburgh before I moved to San Francisco. Over time I’ve lost 500 friends to the disease that I am still surviving 30 years later. I’ve expanded my activism beyond HIV/AIDS to the broader LGBTQ+ community in America and globally over the years.
Kippy Marks: How old were you when you made that decision?
Gary Virginia: My activism started when I was a student at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh.
Kippy Marks: What advice would you give to others on how to practice love on a daily basis?
Gary Virginia: My best advice is to learn to love yourself unconditionally. There are a lot of family and society pressures, including religion, which impact us in our formative years. If we don’t receive love unconditionally as children and teenagers, it could have negative consequences immediately and throughout our lives. The sooner we learn to love ourselves unconditionally we are in the
power seat.
Extending love in its various forms is an easy task. Just making eye contact and nodding or smiling at a stranger can change their day. We are social creatures and need to have authentic human interaction. To me, giving and receiving love is its own reward. One is not better than the other.
Kippy Marks: If you were granted two universal wishes, what would you wish for?
Gary Virginia: I envision the evolution of consciousness, such that humans understand their responsibility to protect our life-supporting, host planet; and to respect the divinity and diversity of human life and all lifeforms. Other species have become extinct; we are not invincible. Love must prevail.
Sir Kippy Marks is a spirited solo entertainer whose shows are permeated with an infectious joy. His distinctive sound arises from his heart, through his 1822 violin consort, Izabella. Marks’ rare talent, broad smile, and radiant warmth will brighten any event to create lasting impact. He is also Grand Duke XL of The Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco. He is the first ever elected African-American Grand Duke.
Gary Virginia
Candidates for Emperor, Todd Hotty and Ashle Blow, campaigned at sites throughout the Castro on February 15. Voting stations were staffed at the Harvey Milk Muni Station in the Castro and at Cinch Saloon on Polk Street. See related content on page 10. Photos by Rink
MILLER (continued from pg 6)
$19,000.
Long-Term Capital Gains – Still a favorite for investors, these gains (like the profit from stocks held over a year) are taxed at more favorable rates than short-term gains.
Pass-Through Business Deduction –The 20% deduction for pass-through businesses will start phasing in for those with income over $197,300 (or $394,600 for joint filers) in 2025.
IRA Contributions – For 2024 and 2025, the contribution limit is $7,000 for those under age 50, and $8,000 for those 50 and over. The SEP-IRA limit is 25% of an employee’s compensation, up to $70,000.
Heads-up for 2026: Unless extended, many provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) will expire by the end of 2025. While Republicans are generally in favor of extending these provisions, negotiations will shape what stays and what changes. There’s a lot to consider, but remember, you’ve got a year to prepare for these changes.
The opinions expressed in this article are for general informational purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual or on any specific security. It is only
GREENE (continued from pg 6)
3. Pet Trusts: Because Pets Are Family San Franciscans love their pets, and a pet trust ensures they are cared for if something happens to you.
Why It’s Important
• Pet trusts allow you to designate a caregiver and can provides financial resources for pet care.
• They avoid uncertainty over who will take responsibility for your beloved companion.
4. Special Needs Trusts: Protecting Vulnerable Loved Ones
If you have a family member with special needs, a special needs trust ensures they receive financial support without losing access to government benefits like Medi-Cal and SSI.
Why It’s Important
• Special needs trusts keep your loved one financially secure without disqualifying them from crucial assistance programs.
• They provide long-term care options tailored to San Francisco’s high cost of living.
5. Professional Trustee Services: Avoiding Family Conflicts
Managing an estate in San Francisco requires knowledge and experience. Appointing a
intended to provide education about the financial industry. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. Any past performance discussed during this program is no guarantee of future results. Any indices referenced for comparison are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. As always please remember investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital; please seek advice from a licensed professional.
Brio Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. SEC Registration does not constitute an endorsement of Brio by the SEC nor does it indicate that Brio has attained a particular level of skill or ability Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Brio Financial Group and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. No advice may be rendered by Brio Financial Group unless a client service agreement is in place.
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. For more information: https://www.briofg.com/
GGBA LEADERSHIP
(continued from pg 7)
disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status in any of our policies, procedures, or practices and that this anti-discrimination policy covers admission and access to, and treatment, in all programs and activities.
Second, as business owners, we are purchasers of goods and services. We have a choice as to our vendors and suppliers. Best practices suggest that our policy statements must reflect that we are committed to the elimination of discrimination in all areas of our businesses, including access to capital, contracts, procurement, and purchasing.
Finally, we use our pocketbooks to support those businesses and sponsors who stand with us, and we boycott those who don’t. Companies like Target, which has spent resources to build a brand that supports marginalized or underrepresentative communities, are starting to feel the effects of “consumer backlash” for its recent moves to roll-back its DEI initiatives. Our economic power, countrywide, is one of the reasons that companies expanded their efforts to reach our community. Some of us are old enough to remember the boycott of Florida Orange Juice in the 1970s.
As more and more companies seek to avoid shareholder challenges and litigation, we must stand with those who are willing to go the distance for the inclusive and equitable practices that benefit all Americans.
Please support the GGBA as we support our members and sponsors.
Nancy Geenen is the Acting President of the Golden Gate Business Association. She is also the Principal and Chief Executive Officer at Flexibility https://www.flexability.com/
SMITH (continued from pg 8)
coalitions between communities, because our freedom is tied up in one another. San Francisco Pride is committed to that work. We are grounded in unity and in building a world of profound belonging. That means ensuring that Pride remains accessible, intersectional, and community-driven by those who are represented. It means keeping the voices of those most marginalized at the center—our Black and Brown siblings, our trans community, our elders, our youth.
professional trustee ensures impartial and knowledgeable administration of your trust, reducing the burden on family members.
Why It’s Important
• Professional trustee services ensure assets are managed according to your wishes.
• They can reduce the risk of disputes among heirs.
Take Action Now
Estate planning is an act of love that lasts beyond a single day. Whether it’s protecting your home, ensuring your pets are cared for, or securing your loved ones’ financial future, now is the time to put a plan in place.
If you’re ready to create or update your estate plan, contact Greene Estate, Probate & Elder Law Firm today at info@greenelawfirm.com, calling 415-905-0215, or visiting https://assetprotectionbayarea.com/
Statements In Compliance with California Rules of Professional Conduct: The materials in this article are for educational purposes only and are not legal advice. Consult an estate planning attorney for personalized guidance.
Jay Greene, Esq., CPA, is the founder of Greene Estate, Probate, & Elder Law Firm, serving San Francisco residents with customized estate planning solutions.
As we move forward, let us honor the audacity of possibility. Let us take strength from those who have come before us and struggle towards a future where Black queer people are not just included but celebrated, elevated, and safe.
Pride is protest. Pride is resistance. Pride is joy.
Joshua Smith is the President of San Francisco Pride.
LI (continued from pg 9)
$250,000 grant from Gilead Sciences Inc. to support the On Lok HIV Caregiver Training initiative. Launched in January 2025, this two-year project will equip On Lok PACE and adult day center caregivers with essential skills for serving trans individuals and HIV survivors. UCSF and PACE Nursing are providing development and testing support to ensure the program’s success.
Shaping the Future of LGBTQ+ Senior Care
The healthcare system must provide the same level of support and sensitivity to LGBTQ+ seniors as it does to other diverse communities. We are committed to ensuring that our learnings extend beyond this adult day center, influencing caregivers and future care models for generations to come.
Our ongoing collaborations with Openhouse, UCSF, and other advocacy organizations are helping to set new standards for inclusive aging services. By fostering national conversations, training healthcare providers, and developing sustainable care models, we are shaping a more equitable future for LGBTQ+ seniors.
If you are interested in supporting this initiative, we invite you to contribute your time, resources, or financial support to help us expand and sustain these essential services. Together, we can ensure that LGBTQ+ elders receive the dignity, care, and community they deserve.
For additional information about Openhouse + On Lok Community Day Services, contact us at 415-292-8302 or email communitydayservices@onlok.org
With more than three decades in healthcare and 24 years at On Lok, Grace Li’s experience spans a wide range of healthcare settings. She has led On Lok’s PACE expansion across the Bay Area and launched several new programs, including Club 75 during her tenure. She holds a Master of Health Administration from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Florida.
Protest at Tesla in San Francisco
Photos by Rink
On
the National Day of Action Against Trump, February 17, protesters rallied in front of the Tesla showroom at the corner of O’Farrell and Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco. Elon Musk, Senior Adviser to Trump, is the CEO of Tesla. (More images on page 16)
ROSTOW (continued from pg 5)
Short Term Memory Issues,” “Gallup: Nearly 26 percent of Americans Cannot Name The Current Year,” and “Americans Believe Kids These Days Need Better Manners! Gallup Says.”)
But here’s the flip side of the coin. The increase is due to one main trend: GenZ teens and young adults identifying themselves as bisexual. We’ve seen this before. I think GenZ began in 1996, which makes me wonder again, why did people call the previous generation “millennials”? They didn’t even make it to the millennium! GenZ should be the millennium generation.
And as we were saying, it’s not clear how exactly GenZ defines bisexuality. Are they really indifferent to the gender of their future partners? Or are they just reluctant to close the door? It doesn’t really matter, but the trend suggests we appear to be expanding fast, and it will only continue. Each generation has a higher percentage of those who place themselves in a non-heterosexual and/or transgender category, although the percentage of people identifying as “gay men” or “lesbians” remains more constant.
Also, I just discovered to my horror that Gen Alpha began in 2010 and is just com-
ing to an end in 2025! I have only begun to learn the salient facts about GenZ, and now I’m late for the party with Gen Alpha. And what about the next group? Are we really going to call them Gen Beta? Can we get some imagination going? Maybe the Alphas can come up with a new name now that they’re almost all here. Maybe they can name the Betas before they get old enough to make a fuss about it.
Can you wait one second? My landline is ringing.
So Goes Maine … Let’s Hope
I couldn’t even bring myself to read that someone took the “T” off the National Parks website that highlights the Stonewall Inn as a National Monument. All sorts of government agencies have taken the TQ out of LGBTQ in deference to one of these executive orders about gender. I’m a little surprised Trump and Musk haven’t just erased the LG and B while they were at it. There’s no excuse for removing the T from any official reference to our community, but taking the T off Stonewall, where transgender patrons led the rebellion against a police raid and launched the gay rights movement, is beyond petty.
Maine’s Governor, Janet Mills, had to listen to Trump condemn her for enforcing transgender rights for athletes in the Lobster State. In a morning meeting that went viral, Trump put Mills on the spot. When she said she’d follow federal law, he insisted that he was federal law.
“Well, you better do it,” Trump warned. “You better do it, because you’re not going to get any federal funding at all if you don’t.
And, by the way, your population, even though it’s somewhat liberal, although I did very well there, your population doesn’t want men playing in women’s sports.
“So you better comply–because otherwise you’re not getting any federal funding.”
Mills replied: “I’ll see you in court.”
Subsequently, she’s been the target of a recall petition, which I gather won’t go far in Maine, one of 30 states where the governor is not subject to recall.
And finally, we continue to make progress in the courts where the fight against Trump and Musk’s most drastic efforts takes place.
One of our early victories came in the case of a trans woman prisoner, who was about to be moved into the men’s population and lose the hormone prescription she had taken
for many years. We’ve seen a number of similar rulings, preliminary injunctions, in other trans prison cases, but I was very surprised to read (in The New York Times) that only two dozen of the 1,500 trans women in federal custody are held in women’s facilities, in part due to the red tape involved.
Say what? What’s happening to those women? I will investigate if it doesn’t involve an exorbitant amount of effort.
In other transgender court news, U.S. District Court Judge Ana Reyes delivered a blistering series of pushbacks to government lawyers during a three-day hearing on Trump’s new ban on transgender service members. I’m not even sure of the contours of the Trump ban, because I think our new Defense Secretary dumbed them down a bit. But whatever they are, they are not likely to survive a mid-March showdown in Judge Reyes’ courtroom.
The Trump crew will appeal any defeat to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia—usually friendly terrain for our side—but these days, who knows?
arostow@aol.com
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HONORING LGBTQ+ BLACK WOMEN LEADERS & ALLIES
Nadirah Shakoor Performance at 2025 Honoring of LGBTQ+ Black Women Leaders
The artistry of Grammy-nominated recording artist Nadirah Shakoor, who visited the Bay Area during Black History Month, was on full display throughout her performance at the Divas & Drinks annual celebration of LGBTQ+ Black women leaders held on February 21, 2025, at The Academy SF.
Accompanied by DJ Lady Ryan, presented by Olivia Travel, Shakoor with her soaring voice and soulful dancing, brought guests to their feet, culminating with her original song “Pride,” mixed by Osunlade. Listen to it at YouTube: https://bit. ly/41emzWj
Shakoor will perform at a Women’s History Month launch party on Saturday, March 1, at Catch French Bistro, 2362 Market Street, in the Castro. The “Soul Circle” jewelry line, created by Shakoor, will be available at 6 pm during a meet and greet hour, followed by the performance at 7 pm with Music by Black with DJ Young Ednabaker. Dinner reservations, not required, can be made at http://www.catchfrenchbistro.com
Photos by Mike Kirschner Photography
HONORING LGBTQ+ BLACK WOMEN LEADERS & ALLIES
2025 LGBTQ+ Black Women Leader Honorees at Third Annual Divas & Drinks Black History Month Celebration
Each year, the San Francisco Bay Times with The Academy SF honors LGBTQ+ Black women leaders and allies for Black History Month. This year’s celebration, held on February 21, 2025, recognized leaders from multiple fields in the arts, education, nonprofits, and much more. Please join us in celebrating these accomplished, empowered women who continue to strengthen and enrich our community and who have a positive impact on the lives of countless others.
Black
A DJ for over three decades, DJ Black is one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after music masters. She has opened for artists such as Medusa, Erykah Badu, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Alanis Morissette. Also a producer, DJ Black has created phenomenal Bay Area parties like Tight, Rise, Dream EZ, Hella Gay, and Ships in the Night. She is paying it back, teaching other DJs and mentoring countless individuals to express themselves through music with love and also with respect for those wise community leaders who came before us. As she says, she is her “ancestors’ wildest dream.”
Reverend Dereca Blackmon
Rev. Dereca Blackmon is the Senior Minister at the East Bay Church of Religious Science, a Center for Spiritual Living in Oakland, where she has dedicated over 25 years of service to the spiritual transformation of the entire planet. Her work is rooted in a tradition of sacred activism that seamlessly blends spiritual and cultural principles that foster personal and social liberation. Whether her ministry is in juvenile hall or corporate conference rooms, she is committed to providing loving comfort to those facing oppression and “constructive discomfort” to those resting in their societal privilege. She is the mother of four bold and beautiful daughters whom she raised in the spiritual principles of New Thought and who continue to be her life’s best teachers.
Taniesha Broadfoot
An Assistant Manager at Mollie Stone’s Greenbrae Market, Taniesha Broadfoot has been an executive at the family-owned market chain for many years, working previously at the Castro store. With great skill she has managed very large teams and has helped her store receive numerous awards
including The Marin Independent Journal award for Best Supermarket for at least three years. During times of great need, such as throughout the COVID pandemic, Mollie Stone’s Markets donated essential resources to hospitals, food banks, schools, first responders, and various nonprofits, evidencing the generosity and compassion of Taniesha and her talented team.
Reverend Angela Brown
Rev. Angela Brown is the Minister of Community Engagement, Advocacy, and Social Justice for the ten United Methodist Churches located in San Francisco. Her tireless efforts are helping to dismantle systems and expressions of racism, benefiting all of us. She received her Juris Doctorate Degree from San Francisco Law School, and she then worked as an ADA with The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office until her retirement in 2010. Retirement didn’t last long, though, as Angela then earned her Masters of Divinity in 2014 from the Pacific School of Religion Seminary. Rev. Angela’s first appointment was as the Associate Pastor serving at Glide Memorial United Methodist Church from 2014–2018 as the minister of Advocacy and Congregational Care before her present leadership role.
Kamika Dunlap
Kamika Dunlap is the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy’s Chief Communications Officer. She leads the Communications and Public Affairs Branch of the organization to advance awareness of the role national parks play in addressing issues of today and tomorrow, including climate resilience, social and community justice, and the stewardship of national parks and protected lands, waters, and air. She has over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, policy advocacy, and people-centered leadership in the philanthropic, government, and media sectors. Passionate about climate issues, Kamika is a fellow with the OnePointFive Academy, focusing on nature-based solutions and comprehensive
Net Zero strategies. She is dedicated to collaborating with changemakers to drive bold and equitable climate solutions.
Shay FrancoClausen
Shay Franco-Clausen is such a skilled political consultant and veteran of many candidate and ballot initiative campaigns that she was named the Political Director of Equality California ahead of the 2024 elections. The first openly lesbian Black, Afro-Latina woman to be elected in Santa Clara County, she has served on the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority and on the Hayward Planning Commission. She additionally has served as PAC Chair of the Courage California C4 Board, Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party LGBTQ Caucus, Co-Chair of the National Black Justice Coalition’s “Good Trouble Network,” PAC Chair for the East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club, and she was a member of the Victory Fund Campaign Board.
Elena Gross
The Director of Exhibitions & Public Programs at the GLBT Historical Society, Elena Gross has expertise that spans museums, culturally specific institutions, commercial galleries, independent nonprofits, and arts publications. She has served as Co-Director of the Berkeley Art Center and Director of Exhibitions and Curatorial Affairs at the Museum of the African Diaspora. She is also an independent writer and cultural critic who has curated multiple solo exhibitions. As she says, “Community art spaces are a vital, and yet a rapidly disappearing, cultural asset,” so she continues to do all that she can to keep the existing ones vital and thriving.
Tammy Hall
Grammy award-winning pianist, composer, arranger, lecturer, and musical director
Tammy Hall began playing the piano at
age 4 and is still devoted to that instrument, music, and its calling. Her career now spans more than four decades, with no end in sight. In pursuit of the creation, development, and performance of artistic excellence and transformative music, Tammy has worked with and accompanied numerous vocalists and instrumentalists including Etta Jones, Melba Moore, Darlene Love, Linda Tillery, Holly Near, and too many others to mention here. In addition to winning a Grammy, she was the recipient of a Human Right’s Commission award for her work in the community and received a Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle award for Best Musical Direction, among her many honors. She is also an Olivia Travel favorite who brings great joy to audiences the world over.
Cassandra Falby Psychotherapist
Cassandra Falby assists individuals, couples, and families in living and experiencing richer, healthier lives. Their clinical interests include intergenerational trauma and healing, values-based therapeutic interventions, and the impact of disability and chronic illness on self-concept. With three decades of experience, Cassandra has been involved in social justice and equity movements since their grassroots organizing days in the Midwest. They remain an advocate for historically marginalized communities and are dedicated to fostering inclusive environments where individuals can authentically be themselves and thrive. Cassandra is also Chair of the Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project Board and is a performance artist and filmmaker.
Khilynn Fowler
Khilynn Fowler holds numerous roles including serving as a Board Member of the Family HealthCare Network, Commissioner of Arts Culture & Library for the City of San Leandro, and Community Relations Manager at the San Francisco Community Health Center. She was a former Supervisor of Trans Thrive at the San Francisco Community Health
Center and was a Community Engagement Manager for the City and County of San Francisco. She worked for the State Coordinated Campaign for Biden and Harris in 2020, helping to make possible their victory that election year. She even created a transgender-affirming boutique-to-care program, transforming an office space into a chic and successful boutique.
Dr. Stephanie
Anne Johnson
Dr. Johnson’s career of more than 50 years includes diverse roles from full professor at California State University, Monterey Bay, to author and playwright, award-winning artist, exhibit curator and contributor, researcher, theater lighting specialist, project designer, and nonprofit board member. Her works have been included in hundreds of exhibits decade by decade since the 1970s. Among her many prior awards was a Proclamation from the City of Berkeley in honor of her contributions to the city, the California State University system, and
HONORING LGBTQ+ BLACK WOMEN LEADERS & ALLIES
her work in theater and art. October 30, 2012, was officially called “Stephanie Anne Johnson Day.”
Christiana
Remington
Christiana
Remington is the talented visionary behind Oakland Pride’s Womyn’s Stage. She is a longtime LGBTQ+ community organizer who is also the founder, curator, and promoter of Butterfly Productions, affectionately known as “Butta.” She was a Grand Marshal of the San Francisco Pride Parade in 2011. This accomplished woman has been described by her legions of admirers as a “quiet storm.”
Mary Midgett
One of those rare and special people who is known by just a single name, “Midgett,” this extraordinary
octogenarian is known throughout the Bay Area as a community organizer and activist, writer, and teacher. She helped found The Women’s Building, counseled people with addictions, and co-launched Bay Area Black Lesbians and Gays and the NIA Collective, a retreat for lesbians of African descent. She is additionally a beloved leader of OLOC: Older Lesbians Organizing for Change.
DJ Ryan
As one of the most in demand DJs in the Bay Area, DJ Ryan regularly spins tunes at Golden State Warriors and San Francisco Giants games. She has shared the stage with Diana Ross, Weezer, George Clinton, Chaka Kahn, Miley Cyrus, the Indigo Girls, and many other well-known artists. DJ Ryan graces the airwaves of 91.7 KALW, has been recognized as Best DJ in the Bay Area multiple times by community publications, and was honored by the City of Oakland for her commitment to the liberation of queer and
transpeople and the intersectional approach to liberation, principles of equality, and inclusion for all. Presented by Olivia Travel, she was the DJ for the February 21 celebration.
Ramona Laughing
Brook Webb
Ramona Laughing
Brook Webb is a dynamic Afro-Creek
Muskogee queer poet and performing artist who serves as the inaugural Poet-inResidence at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) within the National Center of Excellence in Women’s Health, The Black Womxn’s Health and Livelihood Initiative, and The Black Wellness Center. Ramona is also the Director of Wellness at the UCSF Black Wellness Center and the curator of its art gallery. She extends her leadership and creativity to Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco, where she serves as the first Janice Mirikitani Poet Theologian in Residence.
Nadirah Shakoor
Honoring LGBTQ+ Black Women
The San Francisco Bay Times’ third annual celebration of “Honoring the largest gatherings of its kind, including a standing room only crowd
The program opened with a surprise appearance by former San Francisco and shared that this was one of her first public engagements in 2025
Each of the invited honorees was introduced by co-emcees Judy Young, Health Executive Director, and Dr. Tyler TerMeer (“Dr. T”), SF AIDS heartfelt remarks, signature style, and undeniable charisma. They led sentation of flowers and a Black History Month engraved keepsake cia of ellaprint.
A moment of remembrance and reflection was included in Goodall and Nicole Griffin presented remarks and a display wife Hope Wood, who were honored posthumously. Goodall 2024, just months before the couple died in a tragic accident.
Also on hand to honor special guest, Grammy-nominated Pride’s Suzanne Ford, Executive Director, and Pride Board authenticated Pride Flag flown on Market Street. A proclamation ident Rafael Mandelman was presented by legislative aide Lady Ryan, a star Bay Area DJ and radio personality, presented The San Francisco Bay Times extends special thanks to Nate Goodall, Suzanne Ford, Eric Jost, Tom Paulino, Victor Ruiz-Cornejo, ing Shakoor: Juan Davila, Warren Alderson, Steve Scheitlin,
In addition to Olivia Travel, the event was sponsored by the Health, the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, San Francisco National Center for Lesbian Rights, the SF LGBT Center,
Women Leaders & Allies
LGBTQ+ Black Women Leaders & Allies” attracted one of crowd at The Academy SF on Friday, February 21, 2025. Francisco Mayor London Breed, who gave rousing remarks 2025 as a speaker and participant.
Young, UCSF National Center of Excellence in Women’s AIDS Foundation CEO, who inspired guests with their led the Roll Call of honorees with, for each recipient, a preitem custom-designed by Fran Herman and Audry DeLu-
in the program when longtime noted leaders Brendalynn display of photos in memory of activists Peggy Moore and her Goodall recalled Moore’s attendance at this event in February accident.
performing artist Nadirah Shakoor, were San Francisco Board President Joshua Smith, who presented to Shakoor an proclamation from San Francisco Board of Supervisors Presaide Anh Ha. Shakoor’s performance was accompanied by presented by Olivia Travel.
Nate Bourg, Sparks, Judy Young, Lisa Williams, Brendalynn Ruiz-Cornejo, Music by Black, and our local team supportScheitlin, Karen Bardsley, and Don Berger/Regency Limo.
the UCSF National Center of Excellence in Women’s Francisco Pride, Genentech, The SF Transgender District, The Center, Soul of Pride, and The Bayard Rustin Coalition.
Greg Sarris at The Chan National Queer Arts Center
Greg Sarris, Chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, discussed his latest novel, The Forgetters, in conversation with Jane Ciabattari at The Chan National Queer Arts Center on February 20, 2025. San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus Artistic Director Jake Stensberg welcomed guests to the event that blended storytelling with history.
Sarris explored the power of memory, identity, and healing through the lens of Southern Pomo and Coast Miwok traditions. Heyday Books, the publisher of The Forgetters, shared this summary:
“Perched atop Gravity Hill, two crow sisters— Question Woman and Answer Woman—recall stories from dawn to dusk. Question Woman cannot remember a single story except by asking to hear it again, and Answer Woman can tell all the stories but cannot think of them unless she is asked. Together they recount the journeys of the Forgetters, so that we may all remember. Unforgettable characters pass through these pages: a boy who opens the clouds in the sky, a young woman who befriends three enigmatic people who might also be animals, two village leaders who hold a storytelling contest. All are in search of a crucial lesson from the past, one that will help them repair the rifts in their own lives.”
Sarris at the event also read through his breakthrough contemporary queer indigenous novel Watermelon Nights (1998). He additionally spoke about his forthcoming novel about a powerful shapeshifting native woman who becomes a bear.
The book is scheduled for release in March 2026.
Sarris has long been lauded as a remarkable storyteller whose journey spans literature, academia, film, and leadership at the highest levels. Currently serving his seventeeth term as Chairman of his tribe, which was formerly known as the Federated Coast Miwok, Tribal Chairman Sarris co-authored a bill, H.R. 5528, on behalf of his people, and on December 27, 2000, then President Bill Clinton signed the bill, restoring the Federated Coast Miwok as a recognized American Indian Tribe.
To learn more about Sarris, go to: https://greg-sarris.com/
For information about upcoming Chan National Queer Arts Center events: https://bit.ly/4iaa2Ko
Get Me Production Design and Props
Off the Wahl
One of the most fascinating, lovely men I ever knew was Jacques Mapes. Google his name and you will see that he is most often listed as a film producer, with glittering photos of Jacques dancing and hanging out with classic stars. But I knew him as the fifty-year partner of legendary producer Ross Hunter and set decorator for Singin’ in the Rain
He and Ross came from a place of denial of being gay in public, always opting for two female friends to be their “beards.”
One of those was Nancy Barbato Sinatra, the mother of singer Nancy Sinatra (“These Boots Are Made for Walkin’”)
and the first wife of Frank. Even on a cruise we took together, Ross and Jacques put on the straight act, though their love was apparent to everyone. They were a power couple in Hollywood of the fifties and sixties, After dumping boyfriends Tyrone Power and Errol Flynn, they never looked back. With Jacques being the quiet partner of the two, they coproduced Thoroughly Modern Millie, Airport, Flower Drum Song, Imitation of Life, Magnificent Obsession, and many other films.
Jacques allowed me the pleasure of interviewing him many times. One of his favorite
stories concerned him scouring the MGM lot for props to use while shooting Singin’ in the Rain. He found authentic lamps, vases, furniture, microphones, mirrors, and more from the actual time the movie was set in, 1929. Watch for this authenticity the next time you view the classic musical. He worked closely with the production designers and costume designers. Everyone wanted to work with Jacques. He passed away on my birthday at the age of 88, just as we were going on another cruise together. I miss him.
All of this brings to mind the hardworking production designers who make movies richer for us. This year the nominees for Oscar in this category are period, sci fi, horror (bone chilling Transylvanian castles), fantasy, and current. It probably will be The Brutalist or Wicked, the others being Dune 2, Nosferatu, and Conclave
The first Dune won this category in 2021, but voters will most likely go for Wicked Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales’ new spin may remind members that the original Wizard of Oz lost the fold to Gone With the Wind in 1939. Crowley and Sandales had over 9 million tulip bulbs planted in Munchkinland, and employed one thousand construction workers on London backlots around a giant water tank so students could arrive at Shiz University via boat. Crowley, a six-time nominee and longtime Christopher Nolan collaborator, drew on the grandeur of the 1893 World’s Fair for Oz.
Judy Becker and Patricia Cuccia reflected an architect’s trauma and resilience in The Brutalist. Claustrophobic rooms evoke concentration camp bunkers. The starkness versus the opulence of buildings may bring them the Oscar. Two other amazing designers, Suzie Davies and Cynthia Sleiter, recreated the Sistine Chapel for Conclave. Though we often focus on stars and gowns, we should take a deep dive into visual artistry. When you look at the films mentioned here or your own favorites, even streaming or on a phone, try to notice backgrounds, props, and every behind-the-scenes aspect of the magic of good filmmaking.
Jacques used to rave about the use of historically authentic props and furnishing in my favorite version of Pride and Prejudice starring Lawrence Olivier and Greer Garson. The power of design is in every frame. It was called art direction back in 1940, and nobody did it better than Cedric Gibbins. Check out An American in Paris, Gaslight, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and Lust for Life for proof. He brought art deco into many designs, working closely with renowned artist and designer Erté, and was nominated for 39 Oscars, winning eleven. There’s a gorgeous coffee table book on his work: MGM Style, Cedric Gibbins by Howard Gutner.
And, by the way: next time you hear my favorite quote from Elizabeth Taylor—“Without gays and lesbians, there’d be no Hollywood”—remember that designers of all types led to places where LGBTQ artists and technicians could safely land. These folks may have been in the closet, but at least they were there!
Jan Wahl is a Hollywood historian and film critic on various broadcast outlets. She has two Emmys and many awards for her longtime work on behalf of film buffs and the LGBTQ community. Contact her at www.janwahl.com
Jan Wahl
Ross Hunter and Jacques Mapes
Laurel Burch Studios Store in Berkeley Moving to Oakland
Please save some time in your calendar because I am excited to extend a heartfelt invitation to you.
On Saturday and Sunday, March 1–2 from 11 am to 5 pm, we‘re hosting one last celebration at our beautiful Laurel Burch Studios store for friends and family, and I would be absolutely delighted if you could join us.
This special gathering is prompted by the news I received last week that our Berkeley building is being sold, and so our Laurel Burch Studios offices and online store will be moving to a new Oakland location on March 31, 2025.
By Aarin Burch
When I first moved my company to this amazing Berkeley location, it was my dream to also open an art-filled retail store inspired by my mother Laurel’s Carmel and Sausalito boutiques. I filled it to over-
flowing with her colorful original paintings and a treasure trove of her designs old and new for others to immerse themselves in her bright, joyful art and vision.
We opened in March 2020, just as the pandemic was unfolding and we had to pivot quickly—creating masks to keep our doors open and our team employed. From there, we’ve hosted numerous sales, happy hours,
exhibits, workshops, and even had the honor of painting a vibrant mural outside our door that brightened the block and gave everyone something to marvel at.
Now, we’re celebrating the good times with this one final farewell celebration and sale this weekend—Saturday–Sunday, March 1–2! Keeping my mother’s legacy and this business alive can be challenging—we’re
sad to move but excited for what comes next in this ongoing adventure. It would be so wonderful to celebrate this beautiful space with you.
Though our brick-and-mortar store will close on March 15, don’t worry. Our Laurel Burch Studios online store is very much alive! We’ll continue to offer favorite designs and exciting new collections at https://laurelburchstudios.com/
And we’re already planning fabulous Laurel Burch pop-ups in Berkeley and around the Bay Area. Thank you for being a part of our journey!
Aarin Burch grew up surrounded by color. A native San Franciscan with an extraordinary upbringing, she began her creative journey at the California College of Arts and Crafts and soon gained renown in both the film and business industries. She always knew that her mother’s vision of sharing a bright world of beauty, love, and hope with kindred spirits was her vision, too.
The fabulously entertaining documentary, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, opening February 28 at the Roxie, is a valentine to the iconic singer, dancer, and actress, Liza Minnelli. Director Bruce David Klein traces Liza’s life and career through interviews, film clips, and archival photos and footage, as well as comments from friends including Michael Feinstein, Mia Farrow, Joel Grey, Ben Vereen, and others. (And yes, the film acknowledges Liza is one of those rare performers who can be identified by just their first name.)
The film opens with the death of Liza’s mother, Judy Garland, which devastates her; Liza cried for eight days. But in coping with her grief, Liza learned to hone her craft as a performer. She contacted
Liza Doc Is a Fabulous Profile of the Star
Kay Thompson to mentor her. Thompson—the film floats the idea she based her famous Eloise character after Liza— helped the young performer “find who she was,” and taught her how to live. Likewise, the famous French singer Charles Aznavour also helped Liza develop her on-stage persona.
Liza reflects on these influences with candor and appreciation in a handful of brief interviews.
The film’s biggest flaw is that viewers will want more of Liza talking about her life and career, and less of other people talking about her.
Liza explains that, in her early years, her father was very inspirational, and her greatest desire was to dance. Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story then focuses on Bob Fosse and his impact on Liza. She is even seen in a clip reminding everyone that she was turned down for the role of Sally Bowles in the original Broadway production of Cabaret. Still, she secured the film role, delivering a performance that helped cement her status as a superstar.
It is fun to see Liza’s makeup artist (and longtime friend) Christina Smith talk about
creating Sally Bowles’ iconic eyelashes for the film, or hear about Liza insisting Fosse wait a day to chastise her after an incident on set, because she knew him well enough to know he would say something awful in the heat of the moment and have to send her flowers the next morning.
The documentary is best when it provides such insights, and it does not shy away from addressing some of Liza’s insecurities. She had concerns about her body—Liza had scoliosis, which made one of her legs higher than the other—but she claims she “had to learn to deal with it,” illustrating her resilience. Liza also expresses her anxiety about living in the shadow of her famous mother, and the expectations that created. A segment of the film is dedicated to Liza trying to prove herself and not have to answer questions about being “Judy’s daughter.”
The film emphasizes that it may have been the one-two punch of Cabaret and Liza With a Z, her TV concert performance that won Liza her Emmy, which helped Liza establish herself as a performer in her own right. Curiously, Klein only hits the highlights of her career, glossing over her pre- Cabaret Oscar-nomination for The Sterile Cuckoo, or her last comic turn in the TV series Arrested Development. But Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story does include the anecdote about Robert DeNiro’s critique of the song, “New York, New York,” which Liza performed first in the titular Scorsese film they made together—two years before it became Frank Sinatra’s signature tune.
It would be impossible to get everything Liza into the film’s 104 minutes, but some scenes in the film feel a bit too self-serving. When Darren Criss recalls spending an evening with Liza and she enthralls him by indoctrinating him into her “gang,” it feels superfluous; the point that she was a good friend is made with her 50-year friendship with Allen and Arlene Lazare—whose children Liza is godmother to—as well as her musical collaborations with Fred Ebb and John Kander, and being the muse for Halston, the fashion icon.
Curiously, in the film’s segment on Studio 54, Liza interrupts designer Naeem Khan’s statement about quaaludes, poppers, and cocaine by claiming, “It wasn’t that wacko
... and as far as drugs were concerned, nobody did drugs,” which seems patently untrue.
Liza’s personal life is also scrutinized in the documentary. According to one interviewee, “She has a lot of love to give.” The performer had four marriages and many lovers. An arresting photo of her with Ben Vereen is shown along with a rare home movie clip of the couple together that sparks interest for more information on their relationship.
In conversations about Liza’s husbands, Michael Feinstein indicates that Liza did not know her first spouse, Peter Allen, was gay until she caught him in bed with another man, which seems dubious, whereas Mia Farrow’s reservations about David Gest, Liza’s last husband, does not. But these moments stress the importance that Liza craved love and acceptance, in part because of the pressure put on her by having famous parents, and because she battled her own insecurities.
Klein is respectful of Liza throughout the film, mentioning how she wanted to have children of her own, but regrettably suffered multiple miscarriages. He also discusses Liza entering rehab for addiction—and the parallel of that to her mother’s issues—with sensitivity.
The emotional moments in Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story are compelling, but it is the photos and performances that make this film truly sing. Liza may not be the definitive portrait of its subject, but it certainly captures this showbiz legend with style, grace, and panache.
© 2025 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.” He teaches Short Attention Span Cinema at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute and is the moderator for Cinema Salon, a weekly film discussion group. Follow him on X @garymkramer
Film
Gary M. Kramer
Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This (non-fiction - hardcover) by Omar El Akkad
On October 25, 2023, after just three weeks of the bombardment of Gaza, Omar El Akkad put out a tweet: “One day, when it’s safe, when there’s no personal downside to calling a thing what it is, when it’s too late to hold anyone accountable, everyone will have always been against this.” Here, in his non-fiction debut, the esteemed journalist puts forth a wrenchingly personal memoir and meditation on the broken promises of the West.
Black Woods, Blue Sky: A Novel (fiction - hardcover) by Eowyn Ivey
This dark and enchanting story set in the wilderness of Alaska blends fairytale and bitter realism for a truly unique tale of love, danger,
and survival. Pulitzer Prize Finalist Eowyn Ivey crafts a hypnotically transporting novel equally lush and lyrical, as it is fierce and visceral.
Isola: A Novel (fiction - hardcover) by Allegra Goodman
This is a powerful story of survival and perseverance based on a remarkably true story of a woman marooned on an island in 1531. Told with subtle sensitivity and transporting language, Isola is an epic of love, defiance, and spirit.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, March 1 @ 11 am (non-ticketed - Corte Madera store) Marianna Marlowe, author of Portrait of a Feminist: (continued on page 36)
Take Me Home with You!
Meet Francis, a Thoughtful Kitty Ready to Blossom Francis is a shy black kitty with a thoughtful nature, taking in the world from a safe distance before deciding when to step forward. Change can be a little overwhelming, so Francis prefers a slow, steady approach when it comes to meeting new friends. But with patience, kindness, and a peaceful home, this reserved kitty has the potential to blossom into a devoted and loving companion. Francis may take some time to warm up, but for those who appreciate the quiet triumph of earning a cat’s trust, the reward will be worth the wait. If you’re looking for a gentle soul to share your home—one who will come out of their shell at their own pace—Francis may be the perfect match for you.
Lit Snax
Everything for Everyone: An Oral History of The New York Commune 2052–2072 by M.E. O’ Brien & Eman Ahdelhadi
The title and subtitle pretty much say it all. This is a super-queer blueprint for a future that actually works!
Alligator Tears by Edgar Gomez
Gomez writes essays that are by turns wacky and poignant (occasionally both at the same time), but always deeply personal and perspicacious.
Love You Madly, Holly Woodlawn: A Walk on The Wild Side with Andy Warhol’s Most Fabulous Superstar by Jeff Copeland
After her time at Warhol’s Factory, Holly Woodlawn went to (where else?) Hollywood. There she collided with Copeland, a glamor-besotted journalist. Hijinks ensued!
https://www.fabulosabooks.com/
Let’s Go Home!
Tiger, an American Staffordshire Terrier, Has a Joyful Spirit & Enjoys Playing Chase
Here is one of the many pets now available for adoption at Oakland Animal Services (OAS):
At 90 pounds, Tiger is a big boy with an even bigger heart! His warm smile and affectionate nature make him a favorite among everyone he meets. Surrendered through no fault of his own, he has shown incredible resilience and is ready to find a home where he can truly shine.
Tiger is looking for a committed family who will embrace his affectionate personality and give him the love and stability he deserves. If you’re looking for a loyal, loving companion, Tiger is ready to bring joy into your home!
Come meet Francis and other adoptable pets at the SF SPCA Mission Campus, open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm, and Tuesday, 1 to 6 pm. https://www.sfspca.org/adoptions/
Tiger is an engaging, loving 5-year-old who thrives on attention and enjoys being close to his people. His enthusiasm sometimes leads him to stand on his back legs to say hello, but with a little training, and consistent mental and physical stimulation, he’ll make a wonderful companion for someone who appreciates his joyful spirit.
With other dogs at the shelter, Tiger is friendly and enjoys playing chase. He would thrive in a home with appropriately matched dogs, or as a solo dog with some friends.
The OAS adoption process focuses on matching you with a pet who is a good fit for you and your family. Come by during open adoption hours Thursdays 12–7 pm and Fridays/Saturdays/ Sundays 12–3 pm to adopt your new best friend, or to learn more about the OAS adoption process. Please see the OAS website to learn more about how you can help by adopting, fostering, volunteering, and donating: www.oaklandanimalservices.org
Tiger
Francis Francis
Olivia Travel at 35: A Legacy of Love
I still remember my very first cruise with Olivia Travel, the travel company for lesbians and LGBTQ+ women, with such clarity. It was 2010. From the moment I got on board, I knew I had stumbled into a whole new world that I was going to love. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. All week long I felt held. Like, here was this space where I could be myself and everyone around me could be too. It was like grown-up summer camp and I never wanted to go home.
That was fifteen years ago now, and I’ve been on more than a dozen Olivia trips since then. Every time I go, I come back renewed, reminded that the world can be gentle and kind if we choose those paths. This is a big year for Olivia Travel, which takes lesbians and LGBTQ+ women on cruises, resorts, riverboats, and adventures of all varieties all over the world.
It’s the 35th Anniversary of a concept that began when a group of women took a leap of faith and signed up for the very first cruise, a 4-night trip to the Bahamas.
“We sent a letter to our mailing list and, within a few weeks, 600 women signed up for the cruise,” said Judy Dlugacz, Founder and President of Olivia. “So, we did it again the following week and 600 more women signed up! It was the thrill of creating that first adventure. We had a blast!”
Olivia Records was already a revolutionary success, recording female artists at a time when they were grossly underrepresented in the music industry. An idea sprang forth: Why not create concerts at sea to bring the artists and fans together in a world all of their own creation? Dlugacz began by looking for the perfect ship to charter.
Once she did, Dlugacz went on an inspection cruise. The Captain asked Dlugacz to come to his office after a meeting about the upcoming trip. “The cruise company was Dolphin, which was a small Greek line,” Dlugacz said.
“The Captain asked me in a very strong Greek accent, ‘Who was the first lesbian?’ and I answered, ‘Sappho?’ He said, ‘Correct! And Sappho was from the Isle of Lesbos and that is where I am from ... so there will be no problems on this ship!’”
By Jenny Block
space where we are the majority and the power of that is pretty extraordinary ... even for the most jaded!”
Cruse adds, “I wish they knew the real feeling of being themselves while on vacation and the incredible community we have. One of the best parts of the trips, aside from the opportunity to travel to new places, has to be the life-long friendships people have made with each other all over the world. I love seeing our guests make new friends. I’ve watched these groups experience so much together and provide so much support in times of need.”
Some of the most pivotal moments in Olivia Travel history include a Boston to Montreal Cruise in 2004, when same sex marriage became legal in Boston, MA, and Olivia hosted a group wedding at the Four Seasons hotel in Boston and a Mexican Riviera Cruise in 2008 when same sex marriage became temporarily legal in California for a “summer of love” and Olivia conducted individual weddings for over 100 couples at the home port of San Diego.
And he was right. “I remember the very first cruise in 1990, and how happy and empowered women felt just being able to dance together on the deck for Sail-Away,” Senior Vice President of Travel Jill Cruse said.
“Later I realized that the effect was not just on our women, but on the ship’s crew; it changed so many for the good when they saw how friendly, kind, and respectful we were to them.”
That first cruise was groundbreaking and inspiring, for the women traveling and for the crew of the ship. It’s important to remember, 1990 was a very different time.
“It was a time that holding hands as lovers in public was risky; a time many, many of our guests were not out to their kids,” Olivia co-founder Rachel Wahba said. “We were not visible— and here we were visible in front of the crew, the world, and each other—it could have gone differently, but instead, within a day or so, a love affair I did not expect had formed between the gracious women and the crew.”
Of course, the pandemic in 2020 was an incredibly pivotal moment for Olivia too, as it was for so many businesses and individuals. “Olivia is a survivor,” Executive Vice President and Cruise Director Tisha Floratos-Silano said. “With every trip that we had to postpone, our guests stuck with us. We navigated this storm because of our amazing office team, the Olivia guests, our travel partners, and Judy’s daily conviction to ensure Olivia survived. And we did! And we are stronger because of it!”
Naturally, celebrating the 50-year Anniversary of Olivia Records in 2023 was a big moment for Olivia as well, as is the 35th Anniversary of Olivia Travel this year. They are celebrating this milestone with their sold-out Coral Jubilee—Olivia and the world’s largest LGBTQ+ women’s cruise ever—with 2,600 Olivians sailing to the Caribbean next month. They’ll also celebrate on dry land on their Anniversary resort trip in Punta Cana this October.
Dlugacz says she is equal parts thrilled and amazed at how Olivia opens the hearts and minds of so many people wherever they go and that her incredible team never takes anything for granted. That’s because Olivia Travel is about so much more than going on a vacation, although it certainly is about that too. Olivia is about modeling life as it could, and should, be.
For those unfamiliar with Olivia, all I can tell you is that it’s like a magical concoction brewed by and for the lesbians and LBGTQ+ women who are a part of the Olivia community, with a history so rich it’s downright revolutionary.
“We often say, ‘You don’t know until you go’ because there is a loving appreciation and such comradery as you step onto a ship or resort or travel the world. It’s unlike any other,” Dlugacz explains. “We create the
Looking back, the thing that surprises Cruse the most, she says, is “the loyalty and the number of repeat travelers we have had over the years. We thought that anyone who traveled on more than 10 trips with us would be the highest VIP possible. Now we have so many who have traveled 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 plus times with us!”
Over the past thirty-five years, Dlugacz says, “So many have told me how Olivia has changed their lives. The friendships that have been started, the true loves that have been sparked. But the most poignant story I remember was from a woman who had been sexually assaulted two years prior. She told me that her experience with Olivia gave her a renewed sense of self and that she felt alive again.”
And though this 35th Anniversary is a major milestone, it’s only the beginning. “Those first 35 years went by in a flash,” Dlugacz said. “It is my hope that Olivia will be creating new and extraordinary experiences for generations to come.”
Olivia has certainly changed me. It’s emboldened me to stand in my power. It’s reminded me that I am never alone even when the world might try to make me think I am. And it’s shown me that lesbians and LGBTQ+ women are bolder and stronger and smarter than ever. We are beautiful together, as the Olivia Theme Song says, a song that still makes me cry happy tears every time I hear it. “We live our truth and we love our lives.”
And that, truly, is something beautiful.
Jenny Block is a Lambda Literary award-winning author, writer, and speaker. She is a frequent contributor to a number of high-profile publications from “The New York Times” to the Huffington Post, and is the author of “Be That Unicorn. Find Your Magic. Live Your Truth. Share Your Shine”; “The Ultimate Guide to Solo Sex”; “O Wow: Discovering Your Ultimate Orgasm”; and “Open: Love, Sex, and Life in an Open Marriage” (winner of a 2008 Lambda Literary Award). Her new book, “Badass Manifesting,” will be released on May 13. Find her online ( https://bethatunicorn.com/ ) and on IG @thejennyblock
Jenny Block
Olivia Travel’s first cruise in 1990 aboard the SS Dolphin IV
Olivia Founders Rachel Wahba and Judy Dlugacz
Olivia Executive Vice President Tisha Floratos and Senior Vice President Jill Cruse
Judy Dlugacz
Honolulu’s Hopping
The Gay Gourmet
As my loyal readers know, Hawaii, and Honolulu in particular, is like a second home to me. I’ve been traveling there almost annually since I was 4. The good news? Honolulu has never looked better. My hotel of choice is always the luxurious Halekulani Hotel on Waikiki Beach, where the food, service, and views are unbeatable. But the restaurants in Honolulu—often a culinary desert filled only with poorly-executed coconut shrimp and mediocre sushi— have now come into their own splendidly.
At the top of the list is one of my favorites, La Mer, at the Halekulani Hotel. It’s the “longest consecutively ranked AAA Five Diamond and Forbes 5-Star Restaurant in Hawaii.” Alexandre Trancher, Executive Chef at La Mer, has taken his French background and married it with the aloha spirit and cuisines of the islands. That fusion leads to some very innovative menu items, including a “duck foie gras with banana vanilla whisky marmalade and coconut.” That’s not only a mouthful to pronounce, but it’s also a delicious one to eat!
I was lucky enough to ask this creative chef a few questions about his inspiration and more. What follows is an edited version of that exchange.
David Landis: What is the inspiration behind your menu?
Alexandre Trancher: The inspiration behind my menu is nature—from the mountains to the ocean. All the fresh ingredients.
David Landis: What are some of your signature go-to flavors?
Alexandre Trancher: I don’t have a signature go to flavor. I use whatever is fresh and available and go from there.
David Landis: Favorite foods in Hawaii?
Alexandre Trancher: I enjoy local barbeque with friends and family.
David Landis: What is your favorite dish at Halekulani and why?
Alexandre Trancher: Although it is not a “dish,” I think that our mai tai signifies Halekulani.
David Landis: What are your favorite local ingredients for summer, fall, and winter, and how will you be incorporating them into your menu?
Alexandre Trancher: Hawaii is very different from France. There are various fresh ingredients, but we live on an island. So, it is sometimes difficult to receive consistent products all year round. I need to work with what is fresh and available.
David Landis: What is your first childhood food memory?
Alexandre Trancher: One of the first dishes I remember is a mousseline potato that looked like a volcano.
David Landis: When did you decide you wanted to be a chef?
Alexandre Trancher: When I was 13 years old, I worked at my uncle’s hotel and became inspired to become a chef.
David Landis: Where are you from initially? What brought you to Hawaii?
Alexandre Trancher: I am originally from Paris, France, and have worked in different countries. I came to Hawaii for the opportunity to work at Halekulani and experience Hawaii.
David Landis: Who would you consider to be your mentor and why?
Alexandre Trancher: My mentor would be Master Chef Gerard Salle, whom I worked for as the Sous Chef at Hotel Vendome. His work strategy, cooking, and consistency have kept me inspired.
David Landis: What’s your favorite ingredient to work with and why?
Alexandre Trancher: I have learned throughout my culinary education that sauces are very important; they can be the highlight of a dish. All dishes need some type of sauce.
David Landis: What changes have you made since you arrived? What’s on the horizon?
Alexandre Trancher: Since I arrived at Halekulani in 2012, I have created a vegetarian prix fixe menu so that guests with special dietary needs are still able to enjoy dining at La Mer. In addition, through the years, I have created many variations of our Menu Dégustation and Menu du Soir. We have consistently upheld our AAA Five Diamond rating for La Mer and Forbes 5-Star rating. My next goal is to receive a Michelin Star rating for La Mer and Halekulani.
David Landis: What is your favorite dish on the current La Mer menu and why?
Alexandre Trancher: My favorite dish on the current menu is the Ballotine de Foie Gras de Canard, Purée de Bananes à la Vanille et Whisky Gelée et Poudre de Noix de Coco, Chips de Plantin (Ballotine of Duck Foie Gras, Banana-Vanilla Whisky Marmalade Coconut Gelée, Coconut Powder, Plantain Chips). When I first created this dish,
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David Landis
Filet of Beef with Foie Gras and Truffle Potato at La Mer
Alexandre Trancher, Executive Chef at La Mer
Sunset at La Mer
All photos courtesy of the Halekulani Hotel
I was pleasantly surprised at how the flavors of foie gras, bananas, and coconut meshed together. One would not typically think to combine these three flavors or textures, but they harmonize beautifully.
David Landis: What’s the strangest dish you’ve ever eaten? Where was it?
Alexandre Trancher: An interesting dish that I had was served at La Tour D’argent. It was a pressed duck in blood sauce. The French culinary style (reflects that) a dish is not just a dish; it is a visionary spectacle. Similar with a restaurant—it is not just a restaurant, it is a “family.”
David Landis: Can you name the one meal or dish you remember most and why?
Alexandre Trancher: Several months ago, I created a special dish: cappuccino mushroom with tiles of mushroom. I am looking to add this as an option for the La Mer guests.
David Landis: What’s your biggest pet peeve in the kitchen?
Alexandre Trancher: My biggest pet peeve would be culinary fads or trends. I don’t like to be caught up in a fad. We need to remain consistent in our style of cooking.
David Landis: Favorite part of living in Hawaii?
Alexandre Trancher: My favorite part of living in Hawaii is being at home with my family.
David Landis: What restaurant do you like to go to when you’re not working?
Alexandre Trancher: I do enjoy different types of cuisines. Senia is very memorable for their food and Nan San Jirojio because I like Japanese cuisine.
David Landis: Favorite pastime on your days off?
Alexandre Trancher: When I am not working, I just enjoy spending time with my family.
David Landis: Is there any other information about yourself that you want to share with our readers?
Alexandre Trancher: Hawaii is very special to me, as it is the place where I met my wife and where my daughter was born.
Besides La Mer, there are a host of great new places to dine in Honolulu. Morocco meets the Mediterranean at Leila , in an unassuming spot in a strip mall in Kaimuki. This is a new venture from San Francisco-based chef Mourad Lahlou and Hawaiian chef Chris Kajioka. The results are stunning. Insider’s tip: always order the “Seven Salads,” a knockout appetizer that is nearly a meal in itself. The restaurant’s $85/person tasting menu is a bargain and you can add wine pairings for another $40. If you’re lucky as we were, you’ll also see Chef Lahlou personally working his magic in the kitchen on many nights.
Another spot that I haven’t yet tried but is getting a lot of buzz is Mugen (which means “infinity” in Japanese), located in Waikiki. The website says that you can “experience global contemporary artistry with a sense of place ... . Every dish tells a story, and every sip is a celebration.” The menu offers a six-course tasting meal or a prime aged tomahawk dinner for two.
Hawaiian native Executive Chef Colin Sato oversees the kitchen, and dishes like “poke and caviar” with ginger and Hamachi entice.
Note to my readers: I’ll be taking a bit of a hiatus due to an old shoulder that needs to be replaced. Expect some great writing from some of my favorite colleagues in the meantime and look for my return later this spring. Thanks in advance for all your support.
David Landis, aka “The Gay Gourmet,” is a foodie, a freelance writer, and a retired PR maven. Follow him on Instagram @GayGourmetSF or email him at: davidlandissf@gmail.com Or visit him online at: www.gaygourmetsf.com
Ballotine of Duck Foie Gras with Banana Vanilla Whisky Marmalade and coconut
Roots and Vines: The Afro-Latin Legacy
Cocktails With Dina by
Dina Novarr
Since Black History Month takes place during the shortest month of the year, I’m still celebrating it and feeling inspired by the Afro-Latin diaspora, the communities whose ancestors were forcibly brought to Latin America and the Caribbean through the transatlantic slave trade. Afro-Latinos are making waves in the culinary world right now. It is like that cousin who shows up to the family reunion and somehow makes every dish better. You know, the one who turns basic beans into habichuelas, a transcendent experience that makes you question everything you thought you knew about legumes.
The one who is perhaps leading the scene in the Bay Area is Dominican-American chef Nelson German. You will find me in March at Meski, Chef Nelson’s newest spot, where Ethiopian cuisine reminds us that the Horn of Africa was influencing global tastes while Europe was still arguing about whether salt was too spicy. It’s where the Silk Road met the spice route, and somebody said, “Food can be interesting if we borrow and blend flavors and cultures.” And when we take a real look at Southern cuisine, it is essentially a culinary crime scene where all the evidence points to Africa. Okra, watermelon, black-eyed peas ... the list reads like a man-
ifest of ingredients that took the worst cruise in history and somehow still managed to revolutionize an entire continent’s palate.
Let’s take a look at Chef Nelson’s “Cast Iron Grilled Whole Branzino,” which is basically the Black diaspora’s greatest hits album on a plate. The peanut salsa macha sauce is what happens when South American ingredients get an African makeover. Chow chow, that tangy Southern relish, carries echoes of both African preservation techniques and European pickling traditions, a true child of the American South’s complex cultural heritage. And jollof rice powder, perhaps the most direct connection to West African culinary heritage, reminds us that some flavors are so fundamental, so beloved, that they survive any journey, adapting and evolving
while maintaining their essential character. Together, these ingredients paint a picture of resilience and creativity, showing how African culinary traditions didn’t just survive the Middle Passage; they transformed the entire Western hemisphere’s understanding of flavor. I like to think of it as culinary karma—the very system meant to destroy cultures ended up spreading them instead, like a nightmare that accidentally invented brunch.
And perhaps, like any decent beverage professional would do with a mouthwatering dish, is to find a perfect pairing. No winery pairs better with Chef Nelson’s vibes than Klinker Bricks wines, made by fellow AfroLatino Joseph Smith. Joseph probably didn’t expect to become the wine world’s version of a cultural revolutionary when he immigrated from Belize. Starting as an apprentice at Gnekow Family Wines in 1996, Smith worked his way up in an industry that has rarely embraced diversity. But here’s the beautiful irony: he’s now making some of California’s finest wines, including the “Old Ghost Zinfandel” from 106-year-old vines, because nothing says “we persist” quite like making premium wine from plants that have endured for over a century.
These vines, like the many stories of the Black diaspora, have roots that run deeper than your average Instagram post. They’ve survived droughts, freezes, and probably more than a few questionable farming decisions, much like how African culinary traditions survived centuries of “well, actually ...” from food historians who couldn’t tell plantains from bananas if their lives depended on it. The Black diaspora is like that distinctive wine blend—complex, layered, and probably too good for most people’s palates. It’s the reason your dinner tastes better and your wine has actual character instead of just alcohol content.
So, here’s to celebrating these stories, not just during Black History Month, but every time we raise a glass or fork to our mouths. We should be grateful for the cultural influencers who actually knew what they were doing with food and drink. It’s like history’s darkest moments accidentally created some of its brightest flavors—triumph, resistance, and a new kind of cultural fusion. And that, my friends, is something worth celebrating, every single day of the year.
San Francisco-based Dina Novarr enjoys sharing her passion for fine wines, spirits, non-alcoholic craft beverages, and more with others.
3 ounces Klinker Brick Sparkling Albariño
1.5 ounce Moxie Mule Rosso (made by 40 Acres Blending Co., the world’s only Black-owned vermouth company) a splash of sparkling water Serve over ice and garnish with an orange slice.
Enjoy with Chef Nelson’s Pollo Guisado from alaMar Kitchen.
¾ ounce Uncle Nearest Straight Rye Whiskey
¾ ounce D’Ussé VSOP Cognac
¾ ounce Moxie Mule Rosso
½ ounce Benedictine Liqueur
1–2 dashes of Angostura and Peychaud’s Bitters
Lemon peel garnish
Enjoy with Chef Nelson’s Pollo Guisado or Braised Oxtail “Encendido” from alaMar Kitchen.
Free My Spritz
Chef Nelson’s Vieux Carré
Chef Nelson German
Sister Dana Sez: Words of Wisdumb from a Fun Nun
By Sister Dana Van Iquity
Sister Dana sez, “Happy MARDI GRAS, everyone! And as they say on that gayest of days: ‘Let the Good Times Roll!,’ and in New Orleans in French: ‘Laissez les bons temps rouler!’”
MARDI GRAS is a celebration of life on the Tuesday before the more somber occasion of Ash Wednesday. It usually involves the use of masks and costumes by its participants, and the most popular celebratory colors are purple, green, and gold. Mardi Gras, which this year occurs on March 4, is the final day of Carnival and falls on the day before the beginning of Lent. It is French for “Fat Tuesday,” reflecting the practice of the last night of consuming rich, fatty foods in preparation for the Christian fasting season of Lent, during which the consumption
of such foods is avoided. But this is not necessarily a religious event. Contrarily, Mardi Gras can be a wild and sexy night! Especially in the Castro District!
To celebrate Mardi Gras in the wildest, sexiest, gayest way possible, we members of the charitable Mardi Gras club KREWE DE KINQUE and our reigning King XXI Robert Makowka and Queen XXI Vivianne Vixen Rose have been helping to raise funds for our BAL MASQUE XXII beneficiary, RAINBOW WORLD FUND’s Los Angeles Fire Survivors campaign. Our 22nd anniversary masked ball theme is “MARDI GLOW UNDER THE SEA ,” and will be held at the gay dance club and bar, The Café in the Castro, 2369 Market Street on March 1, 6–9 pm. Celebrity Grand Marshal Brian Busta aka Chickpea will lead the festivities—including the second line parade, a festive tableaux of live entertainers, fun photo booth, deejay & dancing, step-down ceremony of King XXI Robert & Queen XXI Vivianne, and revelation of the newly club-elected Krewe de Kinque King and Queen with proper crowning ceremony. Queen VII Sister Dana will be handing out free Mardi Gras beads at the top of the stairs. For tickets and info: https://bit.ly/KDK-Bal-Masque-XXII
After having enjoyed our masked ball, be sure to join our Krewe de Kinque’s annual FAT TUESDAY CASTRO BAR
CRAWL on March 4, 6–11 pm. No RSVP necessary. Just come crawl in costume (or just come as you are) with us—bar to bar to bar!
The day after Valentine’s Day, in an awfully alarming Musk-rat’s “X” social media platform to the world, Commander-in-Deceit Trump wrote: “ He who saves his Country does not violate any Law.” Dictator Donald probably did not realize that he was quoting the terrible former French revolutionary general Napoleon Bonaparte who staged a military coup before declaring himself emperor from 1804–1815. Now, more than 200 years later, wannabe King Trump is trying to bend AmeriKKKa to his will—using our Justice Department as his personal law enforcement agency. Sister Dana sez, “In MY country, NO ONE is above the law—even though Supreme Court MAGA majority maniacs have given him immunity from criminal prosecution. He is still facing case after case from real Federal Justices (who are actually being impeached by some sycophantic House Repugnicans). So, let’s just rip to shreds this silly ol’ Constitution of ours, mmmkaaay?!”
Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor summed it up so succinctly, stating: “The relationship between the President and the people he serves has shifted irrevocably. In every use of official power, the President is now a king above the law.”
This year’s CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL AND PARADE on February 15 saw one of the largest turnouts in years! An estimated 3 million people joined the celebration, either in person or through live broadcasts—which I really enjoyed on my TV at home. The night’s highlights included a breathtaking opening act and a dazzling fireworks display—not to mention all the wonderful political and non-political celebs. Mark your calendars for San Francisco’s Chinatown festival and parade on March 7, 2026, as we welcome the Year of the Horse and celebrate the cultural heritage, community spirit, and the vibrant traditions of Chinese New Year!
On February 16, I attended yet another fabulous Fabulosa Books’ author-talk event
at 489 Castro Street—always by lively live authors. This one was no exception, featuring Nico Lang, writer of AMERICAN TEENAGER: How Trans Kids are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era. Introduced by Castro Cultural District Director Tina V. Aguirre, Nico has brilliantly documented how trans kids should be allowed to live. But what is incredibly rare are the voices of the people at the heart of this issue: transgender and gender nonconforming kids themselves. Journalist Nico spent a year traveling the country to document the lives of transgender, non-binary, and gender-fluid teens and their families, drawing on hundreds of hours of interviews with them and the people in their communities of what it’s actually like to grow up trans today. Despite what some lawmakers might want us to believe, these are truly just kids looking for a brighter future. Go buy this beautiful book at Fabulosa Books!
America is facing yet another possible Government Shutdown on March 14. Republicans in Congress will be struggling to reach a spending plan—having kicked the can down the road so many, many times in the past. On February 13, the House GOP passed a budget blueprint with $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and steep spending reductions. The Republican-led Budget Committee approved a sweeping proposal to unlock Trump’s agenda—sending it to the full House. This would acutely affect Medicare, Medicaid, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), among other needs of Americans. Democratic House Leader Hakeem Jeffries had noted that the GOP ditched bipartisan spending talks, and he assured that the House Democrats would never accept this, stating to Republicans, “You’ve now shown America that it’s all on you!” Sister Dana sez, “Democrats have finally awakened and are fighting back hard!”
On PRESIDENTS’ DAY, February 17, it might as well have been called “ANTIPRESIDENTS’ DAY, ” because hundreds of thousands of protesters gathered across America (including over 1,500 peaceful but enraged people in front of SF City Hall) to demonstrate against Presidents “Trusk”
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Dennis McMillan (right) joined author Nico Lang (center), who was the featured speaker at Fabulosa Books on February 16, where he appeared with event emcee Castro Cultural District Director Tina V. Aguirre (left).
PHOTO BY CHRIS MICHAELSON
George Cecil Ives and The Order of Chaeronea
Faces from Our LGBT Past
Dr. Bill Lipsky
By the time George Cecil Ives (1867–1950) met Oscar Wilde at the prestigious Authors’ Club in London in 1892, he was deeply involved in what he called “the Cause.” A self-described “evolutionary anarchist,” he wanted to end the social rejection and legal persecution of “uranian love,” then the term for same-sex intimacy. Neither Wilde nor his lover Alfred Douglas—Ives had brief affairs, separately, with both of them—was much interested in campaigning to change the laws against homosexuals, but he persevered.
The next five years, however, were difficult for “the Cause,” especially after Wilde’s arrest, trials, and imprisonment for “gross indecency.” By 1897, the year Wilde was released from jail, Ives came to understand that the time was not right to crusade openly for either social acceptance or legal reform. Instead, he created a secret society to effect change, which he named The Order of Chaeronea, after the battle site where the Sacred Band of Thebes, which consisted of 150 loving male couples, perished in 338 BCE.
Possibly the first homosexual rights organizations in the world—the Scientific-Humanitarian Committee founded by famed sexologist Magnus Hirschfeld in Berlin the same year may or may not have preceded it by a few months—
The Order of Chaeronea was to be “A Religion, A Theory of Life, and Ideal of Duty,” according to Ives. Its primary purpose was moving society forward. “We demand justice for all manner of people who are wronged and oppressed,” he wrote into its “Rules of Purpose.”
The Order was more than a radical political group. It was also a fraternal organization, with the rules, rituals, secret meetings, codes, and symbols typical of other Victorian societies, although the “Chaeroneans” could face up to two years in prison at hard labor if they were discovered being intimate with each other. Ives insisted that the Order was not a sex club.
Sex “is forbidden On Duty,” he wrote, “and the Order is most ascetic.” He applauded sensuality, however, “so long as it is passionate. All flames are pure.”
The “Service of Initiation” emphasized this. With “the vow that shall make you one of our number,” new members swore:
• That you will never vex or persecute lovers.
• That all real love shall be to you as sanctuary.
• That all heart-love, legal and illegal, wise and unwise, happy and disastrous, shall yet be consecrate for that love’s Holy Presence dwelt there.
No one was allowed to join the group without the recommendation of two existing members, who usually referred to each other by their initials, if at all. “Thou knowest the two who received thee in the Order,” Ives wrote in words that sounded like he was quoting admonitions from the King James Bible. “Thou dost not need to know any others. Thou art forbidden to mention who belongs to anybody outside it.”
Everyone understood the need for secrecy. In the previous 10 years alone, three scandalous cases had brought tremendous attention to England’s uranian subculture, which the newspapers consistently described as a group of individuals who indulged in “abominable and filthy practices” that were “not to be named among Christians.” The first was in 1889, when police raided a homosexual “house of assignation” on Cleveland Street in London, where powerful men “preyed upon and corrupted” the innocent youth of the nation for “their degenerate pleasures.”
The Society stated it was formed “for the consideration of problems and questions connected with sexual psychology, from their medical, juridical, and sociological aspects.” It was especially interested in homosexuality, pledging to fight legal discrimination with scientific understanding. The group also sponsored forums, presented speakers and published papers about sex education, women’s reproductive rights, marriage and divorce, obscenity, and sunbathing. Its “attitude of open-minded enquiry, and refusal to accept conventional dogma about sex and gender,” wrote historian Lesley Hall, “permeated the works of these writers and the BSSSP.”
Like many Victorian gentlemen, Ives was not only a great joiner of organizations, but he also was a sportsman. He played cricket with J. M. Barrie on the team the creator of Peter Pan named the Allahakbarries. He also captained a team representing the Authors’ Club, but resigned after he heard some in the group making derogatory comments about “the homosexuals.” In 1902, playing a single first-class cricket match for Marylebone Cricket Club, he became the world’s first openly gay first-class cricketer.
The revelations about Cleveland Street’s “den of iniquity” were followed in 1893 by the “The Newcastle Scandal.” Authorities accused Lionel Hamilton, a 45-yearold factory inspector, of having a long-term relationship with Henry Dady, 22, a clerk, during which they “feloniously, wickedly, and against the order of nature, did carnally know each other and commit the abominable crime of buggery,” the “worst crime known to humanity.” The Court sentenced Hamilton to 10 years in prison at hard labor. Dady received a term of 5 years.
Much worse for “the Cause” were Wilde’s three court cases in 1895, where uranians were described in the most salacious language possible. They were presented as nothing less than a criminal underground who wore dresses at all male parties, solicited and seduced upstanding young men for unspeakable purposes, performing all manner of sexual perversion with them and each other. Two years later, Ives created The Order, pledged to “the cultivation of a moral, ethical, cultural, and spiritual homosexual ethos.”
Many members of The Order later became deeply involved in the creation of the British Society for the Study of Sex-Psychology (BSSSP), co-founded—openly—in 1913 by Ives and pioneering homosexual rights advocate Edward Carpenter, Hirschfeld, writer and illustrator Laurence Houseman (a younger brother of poet A. E. Houseman), and other reformers; all were publicly known to be “that way.” There was immediate progress when the organization’s first meeting at the Cecil Hotel, London, in 1914, was open to the public.
The future took longer to arrive than Ives or any of the other reformers had hoped, but across his life, whatever issues he championed—they included prison reform and a ban on hunting as a sport—he remained steadfast to “the Cause” and its vision:
• We believe in the glory of passion.
• We believe in the inspiration of emotion.
• We believe in the holiness of love.
Bill Lipsky, Ph.D., author of “LGBTQ+ Trailblazers of San Francisco” (2023) and “Gay and Lesbian San Francisco” (2006), is a member of the Rainbow Honor Walk board of directors.
Photos courtesy of Dr. Bill Lipsky
George Cecil Ives
(Above) Edward Carpenter standing outside his cottage in Millthorpe, Derbyshire, 1905 (Right) Dedication, from Edward Carpenter to George Ives
Seal of the Order of Chaeronea, illustration by Ben Thompson
(what I call a combination of co-presidents Trump & Musk). Three big, bold placards stood out for me: “Where Law Ends, Tyranny Begins”; “Not All Supporters of The Orange Menace are Racist, But All of Them Decided Racism Wasn’t a Deal Breaker”; and, quite simply, “Resist Fascism!”
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence 2025 Easter Grant Cycle is now open! Applications are being accepted now through March 30, 2025. Winners will be announced on Easter, April 20. The Sisters tend to support underfunded, small organizations and projects providing direct services to underserved communities. Most of these organizations and projects receive little, if any, government or mainstream funding—and may be in the early stages of development. We are especially attracted to progressive grassroots projects that promote wellness, joy, tolerance, and diversity within our communities. We have a vision that encompasses diverse communities and groups that have a common interest in human rights, people of every gender, gender identity, race, class, age, and sexual orientation. We favor projects that serve the Bay Area or particularly embattled communities in other locales around the country. We are especially thrilled to fund innovative projects in providing seed money that will have a ripple effect throughout and upon our diverse communities. Learn more and apply here: www.thesisters.org/grants
References to transgender people have been removed from a National Park Service website for the STONEWALL NATIONAL MONUMENT, a park and visitor center across from the Stonewall Inn in New York that commemorates the 1969 riot that became a pivotal moment for the LGBTQ rights movement. These drastic changes were made because of an executive order Dictator Donald signed on his first day in office calling for the federal government to define sex as only male or female. Also removed from the NPS site were the letters “T” and “Q” in our usual LGBTQ acronym. Sister Dana sez, “This is outrageous because transgender people—especially transgender women of color—were at the forefront of the Stonewall Riots and one of the beginnings of the fight for LGBTQ civil rights!”
The good news is that Trump’s horrendous DEI crackdown is temporarily on hold, thanks to rulings by intelligent, apolitical, law-upholding Federal Judges across the nation!
In non-entertainment news, we heard that Terrible Trump was “unanimously elected Chairman of the Board of the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C,” according to his statement. But he had fired most of the original board (many of which resigned in an act of resistance against disgusting Donald) and replaced the old board with his butt-kissers. According to The Washington Post, this is the first time a
president has removed the predecessor’s board members in order to install himself as chair. Many of the truly talented stars planning to appear on the show have now canceled because of this autocratic action. And the scheduled Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., were dumped. Sister Dana sez, “I don’t know about you, dear readers, but I will no longer be watching this once-prestigious program. Okaaay then, byeee, K.C.!”
At the start of the now streaming, six-episode, “ZERO DAY” on Netflix, a deadly cyber-attack forces former U.S. President George Mullen ( Robert De Niro) out of retirement to search for the truth in a world where facts have become subjective. The plot explores a divided country facing an urgent, existential crisis. The alarming tagline: “When the truth has been weaponized, how do you unravel a conspiracy?” If that sounds like today’s “alternative facts” world of Trumpism to you, then you will probably enjoy this thrilling American political conspiracy series.
Sister Dana sez, “Meanwhile Trump has likened himself to royalty on his ‘Truth Social’ in stating boldly: ‘Long Live the King.’ Well, he finally admitted it. So, let’s have a revolution and dethrone the king!”
A new bill in Iowa, House Study Bill 158, would make attending a drag performance with one’s own children a felony punishable by up to five years in jail. It could include any performance involving a transgender person, even if it’s not a drag performance. And businesses could be fined $10,000 for allowing minors to attend such a presentation. According to LGBTQ Nation, this bill isn’t about lewd drag performances; it’s about any performance where a performer wears “clothing, makeup, accessories, or other gender signifiers” that are “different than the performer’s gender assigned at birth.” The bill says this applies to any show that includes singing, dancing, reading, or performing. Sister Dana sez, “House SB-158 is a real drag—and not the FUN DRAG at all!”
BOOK PASSAGE (continued from pg 28)
A Memoir in Essays
Through braided memories that flash against the present day, Portrait of a Feminist depicts the evolution of Marianna Marlowe’s identity as a biracial and multicultural woman—from her childhood in California, Peru, and Ecuador to her adulthood as an academic, a wife, and a mother.
Saturday, March 1 @ 1 pm (non-ticketed - SF Ferry Building store) Julie Beeler, author of The Mushroom Color Atlas: A Guide to Dyes and Pigments Made from Fungi
Is there anything mushrooms can’t do?
In this richly illustrated book, acclaimed designer artist and educator Julie Beeler presents more than 500 swatches of natu-
On February 21, Trump abruptly, stupidly fired the country’s senior military officer, the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman—a role that traditionally remains in place as administrations change. Air Force General Charles Q. Brown Jr., a four-star fighter pilot, was only the second African American to hold the job. The Navy’s top admiral and a senior Air Force general were also dismissed.
The 97th Academy Awards Oscar Ceremony is March 2, 4–7 pm on ABCTV. Just call me “Dorothy Gale of Emerald City,” because I will be rooting for WICKED !
The Academy presents: BROCK & SPENCER: Cabaret Piano Night on March 5. Big vocals, bold piano, and all the drama you love—Jason Brock & Dee Spencer are serving up a night of queer magic and musical excellence! Open to all—no cover. Must RSVP. https://www.academy-sf.com/
QUEER ANCESTORS PROJECT presents prints by queer and trans emerging artists with ARTIST PANEL and ButtonMaking. Panel features artists faustina ngô, JoJo, maya salcido white, Natalie Fong, Naye Rosas, Percy Schumacher, ruby jay, Sofía Fabio Mendieta, TIJA, and Zoe Wagner, with QAP Creative Director Katie Gilmartin Free on March 8, 7–9 pm at STRUT, 470 Castro Street.
Sister Dana sez, “Congratulations to newly elected and crowned Imperial Court Emperor Ashle Blow and Empress Afrika America! Let Ashle and Afrika absolutely rule The City!”
Will you watch terrible Trump’s State of the Union speech on March 4? Many Democrats and democracy-loving folx are choosing to boycott the dictator’s speech, but others are planning to watch in order to help combat his lies. Sister Dana sez, “It could be a fun party where we all get to booo the bastard—or maybe mark Bingo cards for each category of lying!”
ral dye colors derived from the fungi. Come join us for a live demonstration and signing sure to inspire you to tap into this glorious spectrum of the mycological world.
Thursday, March 6 @ 7 pm (ticketedCalvary Presbyterian San Francisco) Tori Amos, author of Tori and the Muses
Music legend Tori Amos has authored her first ever children’s book, a whimsical and thoughtful tale of finding strength in your creativity. A young Tori is guided by her eleven muses to find inspiration everywhere in a story sure to inspire readers of all ages to heed their inner muse.
https://www.bookpassage.com/
New Location for Bob’s Donuts on Polk Street in San
Francisco
Photos by Rink
San Francisco Bay Times photographer Rink, who is a longtime fan of Bob’s Donuts, was at the popular stop for sweet treats on Friday, February 21, for the “soft opening” of the legendary shop’s new location at 1720 Polk Street.
Accompanied by her daughter Aya, owner Rebekah Ahn, whose family has owned and operated the shop since 1977, welcomed guests to the new location. The event included free donut samples, tote bag giveaways, and a donut-eating challenge.
Since 1960, the shop had been located in the 1600 block of Polk Street. At its new location, Bob’s Donuts has a layout that it similar to the original, continuing the longstanding tradition of a front kitchen. Customers can watch as staff members create their favorite donut varieties. The large front display window will also be continued at the new spot.
Rink reports that the single most popular variety offered at Bob’s Donuts— although perhaps not the most visually attractive one—is the apple fritter. This and other donuts have been enjoyed by the likes of Harvey Milk, Cleve Jones, and many other LGBTQ+ community leaders past and present. A famous photo taken by Rink in the 1970s captured Milk treating Jones to a donut for his birthday, evidencing how important this welcoming business has been for decades. https://www.bobsdonutssf.com/
Recycled Cotton Woven Throws
Feel like staying home and hiding under a blanket? Get cozy with our selection of woven throws made from recycled cotton.
We have assorted colors and styles for $34.99 each.
Zafferano America Cordless Lighting
The Theta Pro lamp is made from durable die-cast aluminum with a painted finish suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Offering 9 hours of cordless illumination and a dimmable and tunable LED light, the Theta lamp is perfect for placing bedside or on a dining table. An induction charging base and power cord are included. It is available in matte black or matte white for $144.99.
Keep up with Cliff’s Variety news at Facebook ( https://www.facebook.com/CliffsVariety ) & Instagram ( https://www.instagram.com/hilario_sf/ )
Mark Suber
“U.S. Senator Cory Booker”
compiled by Rink
Stephen Dorsey
“Artist Amy Sherald, who created the official portrait of Michelle Obama”
Rahni Nothing More
“Gay civil rights activist Bayard Rustin”
Mary Midgett
“Civil rights activist Claudette Colvin, who months before Rosa Parks, also refused to leave her seat on a bus and was arrested during the Jim Crow Era”
Looking Back on Valentine’s Day 2025 in San Francisco
San Francisco City Hall was abuzz with activity on Friday, February 14, as a total of 253 couples seeking to be married joined the queue to receive special Valentine’s Day Marriage Certificates. Some couples brought along their pets. Others were accompanied by children playing while waiting in the long line.
A large bowl of chocolate hearts wrapped in red were waiting at the security desk in the building’s main entrance. Nearby was a sign that read: “San Francisco, The City of Love, Wishes You a Happy Valentine’s Day.”
In the Rotunda, couples shared affections, danced, paused to be photographed, shared stories, and made plans for their futures. Others enjoyed pastries and beverages served by Tallio’s Coffee & Tea staffers wearing t-shirts that read, “Come and taste the community.”
A few blocks away on Polk Street, customers waited in line at Bob’s Donuts for heart-shaped treats, covered in a black or red sugar glaze and topped with red, pink, and white sprinkles.
by
Photos
Rink
