Special Section: World AIDS Day. Starts on Page 13.
Ready to Deck the Halls and Light Up the Menorah? Check Out the Special Holiday Calendar. Starts on Page 22.
Dr. Betty Sullivan’s Gift Guide for the Holidays. Page 3.
The LGBTQ Newspaper and Events Calendar for the San Francisco Bay Area | July 28 2011 www.sfbaytimes.com
December 1-14, 2011 | www.sfbaytimes.com
PHOTO BY RIN K
World AIDS Day 2011
Activists React to Prop 8 Ruling in Federal Court
Activists Stuart Gaffney and Shelly Bailes protested at a Prop 8 rally at the State Courthouse on Nov. 17.
By Dennis McMillan
“Man with Skull.” Artist: George Towne | See more art in our special World AIDS Day feature starting on page 13.
World A I DS Day, December 1, presents an opportunity for San Franciscans and people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV. This year’s event also marks the thirtieth anniversary of the pandemic. Those of us who were around in 1981 will never forget the chilling news that spring about five previously healthy gay men from Los Angeles suffering from what
was then described as a deadly form of pneumonia. Since that fateful year, more than 25 million people have died from HIV/ AIDS. An estimated 33.3 million people globally are living with HIV now. According to the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, a total of 28,409 San Francisco residents since 1981
have been diagnosed with AIDS, which comprises 18% of California AIDS cases and 3% of cases reported nationally. The statistics, however, don’t put much of a face on the disease. For that, we look to our hearts to remember irreplaceable loved ones who succumbed to HIV/AIDS. It
is impossible to value or put a number on treasured, loving individuals whose contributions to our lives and communit ies were cut shor t by this still relentless disease. There is little doubt we have all been deeply touched by what has become one of the most serious, deadly diseases in human history.
PHOTO BY AMA NDA BLAN TON
Reveling in the Holidays
Kelsey Hartman and Lynn Ungar with their daughter Mattea Hartman perform each year with the California Revels.
Kim Silverman plays Merlin in the 2011 California Revels production which takes place in Camelot.
By Lynn Ungar
annual holiday tradition. But eventually we realized that the only people who could possibly be having more fun than the audience were the people on stage. And so, as soon as our daughter was old enough we decided (all three of us) to audition to join the cast, and our picture of what the holidays look like took a major turn.
For as long as my wife and I have been a family (even before we adopted our daughter) as soon as December has rolled around we’ve dragged out the boxes and set up the Chanukah menorah in a window, strung little, sparkly lights in the eaves and decorated a tree (spruce, not fir) with a growing collection of treasures. Our family, two white women and our African-American daughter, doesn’t look much like the Norman Rockwell paintings one associates with the sea-
son, but we had our own picture of holiday cheer. When we moved back to California my parents invited us to join them for a show called the Christmas Revels, which performs each year at the Scottish Rite Temple on Oakland’s Lake Merritt. Even our daughter, who was only three year old at the time, loved the music and the dancing, the children’s chorus and storytelling, the beautiful costumes and the chance to sing along. Attending the Christmas Revels with my parents became our
1 BAY TIMES DECEM BER 1, 2011
We were swept into a whole new way of celebrating the season. There was no time for elaborate decorations at home, but we sang and danced on a stage painted in glorious colors. We
didn’t shop for party clothes, but we dressed up for days on end in intricate, amazing costumes. Each year the place and the time period of the show is different—frontier French Canada, Victorian England, a medieval castle, Bavaria, Ireland—but the magic remains the same. We come together to build a community of song and dance and story, and then invite the audience to join that community of celebration with us. The Christmas Revels has been happening in Oakland for over a quarter (continued on page 25)
The California Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the proponents of Proposition 8 - removing the right for same-sex couples to legally marry - have the right under state law to appeal a federal court decision that struck down the law. The case now goes back to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for a future decision on whether the voter-approved ban on marriage equality violates the federal Constitution. The ruling provides an advisory opinion requested by the federal appeals court earlier this year. The sponsors of the 2008 ballot initiative are seeking to appeal a decision in which now-retired U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker struck down the measure, saying that it violates the U.S. Constitution. But in January, the federal appeals court said that U.S. law as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court does not appear to allow such an appeal when state off icials, including Governor Jerry Brown and Attorney General Kamala Harris, have refused to defend the measure. The federal court then asked the state high court to advise whether state law provides such a right. In this last ruling, the California court said there is such a right and that “the purpose and integrity of the initiative process” set forth in the state Constitution are at stake. It must be emphasized that the court was not ruling on the validity of Prop 8 itself, but rather on a procedural matter that affects all initiatives enacted by California voters. “This decision by the California Supreme Court simply means that we continue forward in our fight to achieve full equality for all couples in California,” said State Senator Mark Leno. “We expect the legal challenge to Proposition 8 to be a long one, and this is merely a small bump in that (continued on page 4)
2 12
SLDN Files Motion for Summary Judgment in DOMA Challenge The motion filed is based on the four legal theories outlined in the complaint filed last month: that the denial of benefits violates the constitutional guarantee of equal protection under the law; that these statutes violate principles of federalism; that they impose unconstitutional conditions on the exercise of the plaintiffs’ right to marry under State law; and that they are an unconstitutional bill of attainder.
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SLDN is fighting to help legally married same sex military couples get full benefits.
By Dennis McMillan Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) has filed a motion for summary judgment in the case of McLaughlin v. U.S., the legal challenge filed in October by SLDN and co-counsel Chadbourne & Parke on behalf of current and former service members seeking equal recognition, benefits, and family support for equal sacrifice and service in the U.S. Armed Forces. The plaintiffs, each legally married, want the armed services to recognize their families and seek the same family support and benefits for their same-sex spouses that the services and Department of Veterans Affairs provide to oppositesex spouses. The case, filed in the District of Massachusetts, challenges the constitutionality of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), as well as provisions in Title 10, Title 32, and Title 38 of U.S. Code, which preclude the military from providing samesex married couples with the same benefits and family support as their straight, married peers. This filing asserts that there are no disputes as to the material facts in this
case and asks the judge to make a ruling in favor of the plaintiffs as a matter of law. “The facts in this case are clear. All of these service members are legally married and entitled to equal benefits, yet are prevented from receiving
Aubrey Sarvis is the Executive Director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network.
them due to the Defense of Marriage Act,” said Army veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis. “Given that none of these facts is in dispute, the only question is, ‘what does the law require?’” He continued, “That question can be answered right now, and today we are urging the judge in this case to make that answer in favor of these plaintiffs.”
“This case is about justice for gay and lesbian service members and their families in our armed forces rendering the same military service, making the same sacrifices, and taking the same risks to keep our nation secure at home and abroad,” said Sarvis. “These couples are in long term, committed, and legally recognized marriages, and the military should not be forced to turn its back on them because the federal government refuses to recognize their families.” SLDN is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America’s military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, their in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,000 requests for assistance. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-3283244 x100.
Anti-Equality Advocates File to Eliminate LGBTQ People from FAIR Act rate picture of history,” said Laura the date the initiative petition is approved for circulation to collect more than 504,760 signatures to qualify the measure for the ballot. However, the initiative measure must qualify at least 131 days before the November general election.
State Senator Mark Leno is the author of the FAIR Education Act.
By Dennis McMillan Once again, anti-equality advocates have f iled papers with the state to circulate petitions for an initiative on the November 2012 ballot asking voters to strip language that includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people from the landmark FAIR (Fair, Accurate, Inclusive, Respectful) Education Act. Specifically, the initiative would strike the sections of California educational code that require schools to include information about the historical contributions of LGBTQ people, along with other groups, in social studies courses and prohibit schools from adopting discriminatory materials that reflect adversely on LGBTQ people. This initiative attempt follows an unsuccessful effort earlier this year to place a referendum on the ballot to overturn the FAIR Education Act, which goes into effect on January 1, 2012. The group has 150 days from
The FAIR Education Act, authored by Senator Mark Leno and sponsored by Equality California and Gay-Straight Alliance Network, was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown earlier this year. It requires schools to integrate age-appropriate and factual information about historical roles of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, people with disabilities, and people of color into existing social science instruction. “In the past few months, organizations across the state have been working tirelessly in coalition to ensure California schools value and protect equality for all Americans, including students and the f igures they read about in history books,” said James Gilliam, deputy executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California. “This initiative seeks to distort the history taught in California schools and present students with a censored, inaccurate view of our nation, which our coalition will not let stand.” “Regardless of these political maneuvers, we are already working with students, administrators, teachers, and parents to ensure that California schools are prepared to follow the FAIR Education Act on January 1st and present a full, fair, and accu-
Valdez, interim executive director of Gay-Straight Alliance Network. “Without honest and inclusive classrooms, we cannot expect schools to provide the safe learning environment that all students deserve.” FA IR Education Act supporters across the state have built a broad coalition spanning people of faith; labor organizations; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights groups; disability rights advocates; racial justice organizations; and many others who care about equality. These organizations say they remain committed to strengthening the coalition; implementing the FAIR Education Act; and ensuring that California classrooms are inclusive. The California Foundation for Independent Living Centers is a statewide, non-profit trade organization made up of 25 Independent Living Centers. Through unif ied action, CFILC envisions civil rights for all people with disabilities. “The social movements, experiences, and contributions of the disability and LGBT communities are a significant part of California and our nation’s history,” said Teresa Favuzzi, executive director of the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers. “While there are people who would rather our stories not be told, we cannot pick and choose the pieces of history we teach – all are essential if we are to provide the youth of California with a complete and truthful education.” “Here they go again. At a time when California is facing real economic (continued on page 25)
2 BAY TIMES DECEM BER 1, 2011
Betty’s Gift Guide: Gift Suggestions From Among Her Favorite Things...
“I’m always searching for an excellent gift that’s sure to make a special one happy. No doubt you are too, so here’s my list and let’s go shopping right now!” - Betty
#1 - David & Ronnie Exclusive Jewelry - Available in platinum, gold and silver, the custom designs by David & Ronnie are exceptional. Call (702-597-5003) or e-mail (info@davidandronnie.com)_ for the discount code (“Betty”) pricing on the beautiful Round Starburst Pendent (Style #NC-34). Be sure to have a look around the website (davidandronnie. com) to see more truly beautiful and unique items for her or for him.
9635 and tell Sigrid we said “Hello!” Visit the website herrsculptures.com.
#4 – Panache Lighting by Jana Olson – We met Jana at the Celebration of Craftswomen last month and a one-of-a-kind lamp by her now adorns our kitchen table. They are creative, humorous, functional and joyful too. Check out the Kitchenware Lights section on the website panachelighting.com and be sure to tell them Betty sent you when you call 510-204-9375 or visit the Open Studio at their Berkeley location, 2743 Ninth Street: Dec 3 & 4, 10&11, 17th & 18. Saturdays and Sundays 11 AM to 6 PM.
#2 – Olivia Majestic A laska Cruise – September 16-23, 2012 - We are going back to Alaska with the Women of Olivia! Mention “Betty” and get a special $100 off. Group pricing available so give her a gift of a lifetime. Visiting Alaska by ship is one of my favorite things to do! Join us aboard Holland America’s Ms Rotterdam with a line-up of Olivia entertainers who’ll make you laugh and cry at the same time. Call 800-631-6277 today and say “Betty” sent you! #3 – Michael Bruno Luggage & Gifts – A longtime Castro favorite, Michael Bruno’s has more to offer than you can shake a stick at. Chock full of choices for all price ranges, the shop specializes in luggage, personal leather goods, picture frames, clocks and backpacks. Truly worth the visit to 2267 Market Street and you can inquire at 415-552-3970.
#6 – Ceremonies, Weddings, Celebrations, Blessings – Rev. Elizabeth River – What a great idea! Give the gift to each other, to your family or a group of like-minded souls of a ceremony designed and led by an officiant who has the style, grace and elegance of an angle come to bless you. Call to inquire at 415663-9627 and visit reverendriver. com.
Holiday Store Ornaments & Décor Gifts for everyone! Support HIV/AIDS organizations 518A Castro Street 415-503-2300 www.underoneroof.org 501(c)3 non-profit
#7 – I’m Walking As Straight As I Can – Autobiography by Geri Jewel – She’s a most inspirational writer, speaker and personality. Best known as Cousin Geri on the NBC sitcom “The Facts of Life,” Geri was the first person with a disability to have a regular role on a prime time series. What’s more, she was a featured speaker this year at our own Literary Salon / Book Club at Duboce Park Café. Know someone who loves books? Visit gerijewell.comm and fine out more. #5 – Sculptures & Fountains by Sigrid Herr – Sigrid reached out to us and we fell in love with the beauty and crafting of her very special statues, fountains, frames, mirrors and more. You have to see them to believe. Great for wedding gifts, birth and motherhood celebrations, meditations and rituals too. Call 510-708-
The
#8 – New Year’s Eve Tickets – Party & Celebration - Dance the night away with us at the beautiful San Francisco City Club with outstanding food, a gorgeous deco venue featuring an original Diego Rivera mural, live music and popular DJ Lori Z bringing the Z Road Show. Call for a $20 per ticket discount when you say “Bay Times Special”: 415-503-1375.
Do you want your product included in one of
Betty’s
seasonal Gift
Guides?
Call the Bay Times at 415.503.1386.
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BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 3
Guest Editorial — My HIV Experience in San Francisco AIDS Benefit Counselors told me of the emerging agencies offering the services and help so needed back then, but I’ll never forget the many LGBT leaders like Tom Ammiano, Carole Migden, Roberta Achtenberg, Harry Britt and Mark Leno, who pushed along with activist groups such as Act Up in its various embodiments. UCSF set the research and treatment standard worldwide with doctors, nurses and researchers who saw the nature of this pandemic and began bringing services to all of us, and eventually to much of America
Kim Corsaro Publisher 1981-2011
2261 Market Street, No. 309 San Francisco CA 94114 Phone: 415-503-1386 Fax: 415-503-1389 E-mail: editor@sfbaytimes.com www.sfbaytimes.com STAFF Dr. Betty L. Sullivan Publisher
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ADVISORY BOARD Tracy Gary Nanette Lee Miller, CPA James C. Freeman Judy Young, MPH Gary Virginia CONTRIBUTORS Writers
Rink, Sister Dana Van Iquity, Ann Rostow, Melissa Myers, Linda Ayres-Frederick, Annette Lust, Kirsten Kruse, Natalia Cornett, Teddy Witherington, Kim Corsaro, Lori Major, Christine Dumke, Alexandra Bringer, David Grabstald, Kate Kendell, Pollo del Mar, Linda Kay Silva, Albert Goodwyn, Tom W. Kelly, Heidi Beeler, Lynn Ruth Miller, Jeanie Smith, K. Cole, Gary M. Kramer, Dennis McMillan, Tom Moon, Kelly Fondow, RoiAnn Phillips, Paul E. Pratt, Terry Baum Dayna Verstegen, Liz Bell. Photographers/ Illustrators
Rink, Dennis McMillan, Steve Underhill, Phyllis Costa, Biron.
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It was 1988 and I owned my fifth San Francisco restaurant when I received the news that I was positive. I was overwhelmed with fear and shame, but what a lucky guy to live and thrive in San Francisco all my life. I was told that I had 6 months to a year to live and that I should be prepared for a rough ride. I continued my life and work, and in the early 1990’s I experienced several opportunistic infections which led me to AIDS Benefit Counselors on Castro near 18th and was guided through the process of going on Social Security Disability which was a big challenge back then. I knew San Francisco was Ground Zero for the AIDS epidemic, and I believed I was soon to die. I decided to learn more about the disease and resources to help me deal with this.
“We fought well and we’ve changed the course of human history with our campaigns against this disease and the enormous sufferings it brings to all affected.”
and the world. AIDS Benefit Counselors morphed into Positive Resource Center; The San Francisco AIDS Foundation, Project Inform, Ward 86, Project Open Hand, Maitre, The AIDS Emergency Fund, The Asian Pacific Wellness Center came into being and continue serving the tens of thou-
During these years the medical profession made enormous progress, and medications that worked soon replaced AZT and the many ineffective treatments available back then. This progress was much more than medical because we united and fought for these emerging treatments and services. We men were nourished and supported by many, but we can never forget how the lesbian communi-
(PROP 8 RULING continued from page 1) road.” He said he was confident that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will agree with the lower court’s ruling that Proposition 8 unfairly denies same-sex couples the constitutional right to marry. As an Assembly Member, Leno had authored California’s first bills that would have given samesex couples the freedom to marry. The Legislature passed the marriage bill in 2005 and again in 2007, but both measures were vetoed by then Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. “Handing the authority and decisionmaking power of the state to a small group of citizens with an extremist agenda sets an extraordinary precedent that could complicate efforts to challenge future unconstitutional initiatives and prolong the harm suffered by Californians impacted by those initiatives,” said David Codell, who serves as pro bono counsel for Equality California along with colleagues at Caldwell, Leslie & Proctor, PC. “Equality California is disappointed in [this] decision because we do not believe that initiative proponents such as the sponsors of Proposition 8 should be deemed to have any authority to represent the interests of the State of California.” Codell continued, “That authority should lie
in the hands of our elected officials, such as the governor and the attorney general, both of whom recognize that Proposition 8 violates the federal Constitution.” He said, “We are hopeful that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals will, in short order, affirm Judge Walker’s finding that Proposition 8 is unconstitutional, and end the harms experienced by same-sex couples and their families as a result of this unjust initiative.”
harm,” explained John Lewis, Marriage Equality USA’s legal director. “The simple fact of the matter is that marriage equality opponents suffer no harm from the freedom to marry being extended to all loving, committed couples. Accordingly, despite [this] statement by the California Supreme Court about state law, marriage equality opponents lack standing under federal law to continue their litigation.”
Although Marriage Equality USA expressed disappointment in the Supreme Court’s opinion about California state law, they said they were “very pleased that the case will finally now return to the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals for a ruling on Proposition 8.” Marriage Equality USA said they are hopeful that the Ninth Circuit will uphold that decision or conclude that under federal law, marriage equality opponents cannot continue to litigate the case.
“While we respect the recommendations that the California Supreme Court made to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals - that they grant standing to the proponents of the so-called ProtectMarriage.com - it is only a recommendation,” said Rick Jacobs, chair and founder of the 750,000 member Courage Campaign. “Allowing the Prop 8 proponents to have special rights in Court may open the f loodgates to wealthy special interests to do the same. The judges of the 9th Circuit must determine if people who had enough money to buy a ballot measure that calls for people to vote on each other’s rights should have special rights in federal court.” Jacobs concluded, “Regardless, we are confident that justice and love will prevail.”
Despite the California Supreme Court’s opinion about state law, the issue of standing remains very much alive in this case as a matter of federal law. “Under federal law, a person can continue to litigate a lawsuit only if they have suffered tangible
Andy Pugno, a Prop 8 proponent and lawyer for Protect Marriage, called the ruling “a huge disaster for the homosexual marriage extremists,” and said the plaintiffs’ “entire strategy relied on finding a biased judge and keeping the voters completely unrepresented.” Protect Marriage believed the now-retired judge should have revealed before the trial that he is a gay man with a longtime partner and therefore could be affected by his own ruling. However, Judge Walker’s successor, Chief Judge James Ware, found no evidence that Walker was biased and declined to set his ruling aside. The 9th Circuit could still decide that the proponents do not have standing, in which case the 9th Circuit would dismiss the appeal; but it is highly unlikely. The much more likely scenario is that they will accept the ruling of the California Supreme Court and decide the case on its merits. No matter which side loses at that stage, it is fairly certain that they will appeal to the US Supreme Court. Once it gets there, who knows what will happen?
The “We Don’t F#*@ Around” Person of the Week - Assi Azar gay lives that are revealed with sensitivity and honesty. What makes the film unique is that in most films with a coming out theme the person coming out is the center of the film, and the parents are secondary. Not in this celluloid creation. Azar’s parents surprised him by not throwing him out of their home, but they demanded time and information to accept him, and they asked for screen time to explain themselves.
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© 2011 Sullivan Communications, Inc. Reprints by permission only.
During this time I read an article about an agency named Shanti that offered training to learn how to help someone nearing end of life with AIDS, and my own fear drove me to make an appointment and take their training, which back then was a two weekend session. I’ve never been moved and uplifted more than during those two weekends. I was shown how to be present with another human being living the end of life, something I was terrified of facing myself, and to just be a listener and support another person free of fear or judgment. Shanti truly changed my life and I soon got my first client, who just happened to be a world-renowned musician. He passed soon after we started meeting and he did it with grace and courage, and I believed I could as well. One of the horrors of this period was the obituaries and memorials that swamped our community and wiped out a generation in just a few years.
(continued on page 25)
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sands of San Franciscans diagnosed and living with HIV/AIDS. Glide Church, Most Holy Redeemer, and Metropolitan Community Church along with countless spiritual movements, philanthropists and we ordinary folks stood up and volunteered.
Israeli Filmmaker Assi Azar and San Francisco’s Frameline LGBT Film Festival hosted a screening of Azar’s new film Mom and Dad: I Have Some-
4 BAY TIMES DECEM BER 1, 2011
thing to Tell You at the Opera Plaza Theater on Nov. 15. Azar, 32, also stars in the documentary, and his very personal story is interwoven among other lesbian and
In this poignant story, when Azar told his mother that he was gay, he said that she seemed to age 30 years as disappointment swept over her. Now she hopes that he will f ind a mate and have children. His parents are originally from Yemen, and they are among the one million Jews expelled from Arab countries when Israel was founded after living there in communities for over 2,000 years.
Azar is the host of Israel’s most popular TV show Big Brother and his charm has earned him the label of “The Ryan Seacrest of Israel.” Prior to Big Brother, he has participated in television shows such as KIK, The Show, Good Evening with Guy Pines, Trapped 24 and Talk to My Agent. He says that he is amazed at the excitement that his forty-f ive minute movie for television has incited. His tour has included PFLAG headquarters in Washington D.C., with stops in Boston, Atlanta, and South Florida. The f ilm was also cosponsored by the Israel Consul General, A Wider Bridge, the Israel Center, the LGBT Alliance of the Jewish Community Federation, and the Endowment Fund of San Francisco. Written by Rink. Write to Rink at rinkfoto12@comcast.net.
The Week in Review By Ann Rostow Snakes in a Cash Machine! I was reading an article about an antigay law on the verge of being enacted in Nigeria when I noticed a link to a headline that read, “Snake Slithers out of ATM.” Talk about the stuff of nightmares. According to Euro Weekly News, the serpent emerged from a cash machine in Liodio, Alava, Spain. A man using the ATM on his way to work managed to grab his money and call authorities, who rescued the reptile and sent it to an animal hospital. Sounds like the snake made it, in case you care about things like that.
in places like Nigeria and Uganda, namely the depth and strength of the gay hatred that saturates their societies. While we’re at it, I might as well tell you about a proposed law in Saint Petersburg that would fine citizens for any “public acts” that promote homosexuality. When our State Department criticized the legislation, a Russian diplomat accused the U.S. of inappropriately interfering in his country’s local politics.
Professional Services soon hear oral arguments on whether Judge Vaughn Walker should have recused himself from the Prop 8 case because he was in a gay relationship. A lower court said no, and the Ninth Circuit will certainly agree. The yawn factor gapes. It’s also me, personally. I can’t even get excited about the United Airlines staffer in Denver who called two guys “faggots” during an argument about whether they could use the VIP room, or whatever it’s called.
historical pronouncements and disdainful
I assume the rude employee will receive his just deserts. (Note to editor: the correct spelling of the expression “ just deserts” only has one “s,” not two.) Also, why would anyone want to spend airport time in the stupid VIP lounge anyway? There are really interesting stores, bars and restaurants in airports these days, so why sit around in a boring room with a few couches and some magazines? It’s not as if they have free drinks, cigarette girls or dangerous looking men arranging lines of cocaine on the counter. Now that would be worth a surcharge.
political rhetoric, is some kind of “intellectual”
Republicans Mainlining Crazy Juice
or “genius” is ludicrous. What are they smoking
In lieu of actual GLBT news, let’s dip our toes into the colorful sludge of the GOP primary race, where to widespread astonishment, Newt and Calista are now the front runners for the nomination.
I had a sexist reaction to the story,
Bye Bye, Barney You heard, of course, that our irascible congressional champion, Barney Frank, is retiring at the end of this term. Frank, facing a redrawn district
“The notion that Gingrich, with his bombastic
over there in the GOP electorate?”
instantly thinking that it was a good thing that a man rather than a woman had to deal with the repellant incident. I suppose it’s nothing more than a trite gender stereotype, but really. Ladies? Would you have taken the money? Or would you have backed away and started screaming? I know how I would have handled the situation, and it would not have been a pretty sight. And no, I don’t want to hear about all the wonderful characteristics of snakes. I’m sure they’re delightful creatures once you get to know them, much like tarantulas and large rodents. In Nigeria, while we’re at it, a bill is pending to outlaw homosexual unions and criminalize anyone who “abets” gay couples. When I first heard the story, I understood it to be a ban on legal marriage, which was strange since Nigeria has long outlawed sodomy. But actually, it’s a ban on gay relationships in general. Not only is it illegal to have gay sex in Nigeria, but as far as I can tell, it will soon be illegal to live together or to be a couple. Plus, there’s the whole abetting clause that results in a ten-year prison sentence for anyone who aids or abets a gay union, whatever that might entail. So much for Nigeria’s fag hags. Watch out sisters! The legislation was a deliberate slap at British Prime Minister David Cameron, who said last month that his government would consider withholding foreign aid to countries that persecute others based on faith or sexuality. Well, that covers most of the African continent, where conservative leaders condemned Cameron as a neo-Colonial meddler. Hey, guys. Just don’t take the money. Can you imagine if every major nation refused aid to countries with criminal laws against gay men and women? It would be nice, but that would not solve the core problem
and fed up with the stalemate of GOP rule in the lower chamber, decided enough was enough. And at 71, with something like 30 years of lawmaking under his belt, I think the man deserves a break. Unless some other gay candidate wins a House seat next year, Frank’s departure will leave us with Colorado’s Jared Polis and Rhode Island’s David Cicilline as our only gay members. Wisconsin’s Tammy Baldwin is running for Senate, so maybe she’ll be able to claim a place in history as the first openly GLBT Senator. But if not, she’ll be out of government for now. We’re not the only ones with low representation on Capitol Hill. Women, blacks and minorities in general all suffer from the same syndrome, and I suppose only time—decades of it—will raise our collective profiles. Meanwhile, we just have to hope that our white male allies stick with us as we slowly erode their massive demographic majority. You never know. Maybe a sitting lawmaker will pop out of the closet. Unfriendly Skies It’s a slow GLBT news week. I was very close to writing a lengthy segment on an effort by nitpicking conservatives in New York to convince a judge that the state’s marriage equality law should be reversed because Governor Cuomo may have violated an open meetings law by getting together with GOP lawmakers behind closed doors. It’s not going to happen. Then, there’s an appellate ruling out of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in a lawsuit against the City of New York’s (alleged) sting operation against gay porn patrons. Don’t want to go there. Plus, it’s a side ruling regarding immunity. The main case continues. And speaking of legal issues that are going nowhere, the Ninth Circuit will
It seems like yesterday I was ridiculing the chubby megalomaniac for sipping Cava at a bar next door to a suburban Tiffany’s, while Calista browsed for bling. One would think that Calista would steer clear of robin’s egg blue for the duration of the campaign, given the lingering odor of “to hell with poor people” that still surrounds the Gingrichs’ half-million-dollar line of Tiffany credit. But no. If their extravagance knows no bounds, it also knows no shame. At the time, the Gingrich campaign was nothing more than a vanity tour, an excuse for Newt to strut the political stage, full of sound and fury, signifying that, as we already knew, the man’s a pompous fool. Now, I have only one question: What the hell happened? Look, no one’s surprised that Herman Cain’s rise was followed by Herman Cain’s fall. I don’t think we expected so many sex scandals, but we did expect something to bring him down. Had he been a model husband, his rambling incoherence would have eventually eroded his support. I suppose I thought that Perry would have eventually picked up those former Cain votes. Who knew why people liked Cain in the first place? The man was a moron, so it’s not as if people liked his positions. It seemed as if they liked his folksy style, right? So why not switch to another folksy moron like Rick Perry? But Gingrich? Gingrich? Newt Gingrich? A thrice-married holier-thanthou mean-spirited self-indulgent crackpot with an ego the size of a Brontosaurus and a heart the size of a bedbug? This is the man who inherited the votes of the jovial Herman Cain? How? Why? I loathe the very sight of this man, larded with complacency and bursting with self congratulation at every opportunity. The notion that Gingrich, with his bombastic historical pronouncements and disdainful political rhetoric, is some kind of “intellectual” or “genius” is ludicrous. (continued on page 25)
Read more @www.sfbaytimes.com and check us out on Twitter and Facebook. BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 5
GOOD DEEDS
Under One Roof off icially kicked off the holidaze with their “A Little Bit Naughty, A Little Bit Nice” shopping event at their store at 518A Castro Street. There were carols by the piano, beverages, and canapés – but most of all there were shoppers getting ahead of the holiday rush. And best of all – they are giving the gift that gives twice, because UOR is SF’s nonprof it gift boutique that raises money for dozens of HIV/AIDS service organizations. Under One Roof has sold over $11 million in retail merchandise on behalf of AIDS service organizations. Every time you make a purchase at UOR, you are helping organizations that provide much needed services for those living with HIV/AIDS. The associates in the store are all volunteers who are committed to UOR’s mission of giving back. In the store window is a slender Santa standing next to a motorcycle. Very hip. Inside is a variety of Christmas trees trimmed with gorgeous ornaments available for sale. The trees are arranged by theme: zoo animals, undersea creatures, f lamingoes, cats & dogs, you name it, Hanukkah, and typical Christmas ornaments including Santa, snowmen, and sleighs. There are also tiny trees to purchase for a small apartment. Sister Dana Shops for You Best of all, at Under One Roof, all your gift shopping needs are under one roof. Sections include every rainbow gewgaw imaginable. Elegant jewelry. For the tourists, there are all things souvenir San Francisco – from
mugs to tee shirts to martini glasses. Personally I love the tee that says in pink and black: “Welcome to San Francisco. Now go homo!” For Giants fans there are books and trinkets rooting for your home team. There are
P HOTO BY ST EVE UN DERHIL L
By Sister Dana Van Iquity
Sister Eve Volution and Sister Pan N Leather joined the festivities at Under One Roof.
books period. And calendars. How about refrigerator magnets - from nice to nasty - as stocking stuffers? There is kitchenware galore, including utensils, kissing salt and pepper sets, a one-handed pepper grinder, butch cowboy aprons and matching oven mitts. Something you don’t see every day is the Hot Dog Hottie stuffed animal that you microwave so its lavender scented tummy will give you a warm cuddle. There are also pink bunny hotties if that’s your style. And other stuffed animals that any girl and boy from one to one hundred would enjoy. A stuffed elephant or dog can serve as a computer monitor screen wipe, which is a special chamois that removes static and leaves a fresh lemon scent.
A fun, inexpensive gift is an 18-pack of glow in the dark stars that you can paste onto your ceiling and give your tricks something to look at while on their backs. There is a bath section with scented candles and something every lush will appreciate: hangover shower bath salts with the perfect aroma therapy cure for the morning after the night before. This is the perfect place to find just the right holiday greeting card. There are pop-up scenes and also pop-up three dimensional snow globes of transparent plastic and paper. UOR Executive Director Beth Feingold welcomed the shoppers and gave a special shout-out to the volunteers “who make this happen day after day after day.” She noted UOR is open 362 days a year. Board Chair Jerry Mitchell encouraged everyone to “shop like a diva.” Anna Damiani presented a certificate of appreciation from Senator Mark Leno to Under One Roof. She encouraged everyone to shop because “everyone knows someone who needs a pair of squirrel underwear.” Cochair Patrick Noonan thanked the organizations that decorated the trees (including The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. and Mama’s Family) so beautifully. He spoke of the history of UOR, which started off as a tiny gift shop in a small corner of the Names Project quilt-making site that has bloomed ever since into the full service store it has become. So what are you doing still reading this? Go out and shop till you drop already!!!
mineral rights since the 1800’s was settled for less than $4 billion; and the rate of HIV infection among LGBT Native Americans has never been higher and is even higher than the high rates among non-LGBT Indian clients. The holiday dinner was important since the homophobia among some tribes has driven LGBT Native Americans to San Francisco. That afternoon, however, they found warmth and connections.
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Glowing with holiday cheer, Under One Roof ’s ED Beth Feingold with lovers Jay Dabbs and Robert Makowka at UOR’s store for the kickoff party.
For the “religious” ones there is an assortment of Jesuses ( Jesi?) from pocket versions to lighters to action figures to big pink versions of the magic eight ball that you turn upside down for inspired answers from the Savior. Perhaps you prefer Mother Mary mysteriously appearing on your toast, an implement of which such results are available. There are also Buddhas. And sweet Nutcracker Suite nutcrackers large and small for whatever size nuts you need to crack. Not recommended as SM sex toys however.
Two Extraordinary Thanksgiving Celebrations Help LGBTQ Community
Castro Country Club Thanksgiving Potluck
Joan Benoit, Nazbah Tom, and Andrew Lopez served Thanksgiving dinner at the Native American AIDS Project office.
The Castro Country Club Thanksgiving potluck drew a large horde of club members and their friends. Long tables were set up for serving and dining, and striking artwork by Donald Rizzo lined the walls. Two turkeys
By Rink San Francisco is known worldwide for its unique people and history, and the passion for caring, in a place named for St. Francis, is never more evident than during the holidays. Two extraordinary Thanksgiving events - the Native American Two Spirits LGBT dinner on Nov. 17 and the Castro Country Club potluck on Nov. 24 - were complementary celebrations that exemplified the city’s reputation. Native American Two Spirits LGBT Dinner The Native American feast was hosted by the Native American AIDS Project (NAAP), which is located at Market and Van Ness Avenue. Dozens of Native Americans and their friends greeted each other and enjoyed a heaping plate of Thanksgiving fare financed by the Glide Foundation. NAAP’s gracious executive director Joan Benoit, from the Ojibwe Nation, helped to serve dinner and welcomed guests that included API Wellness Center staff and clients. NAAP staff member Andrew Lopez, who stars on a NAAP website video, was joined by board member Clyde Martinez (Sioux), Anna LeRoy (Omaha), and Nazbah Tom (Diné) serving a satisfying turkey and ham dinner. During dessert there were strong endorsements for NAAP programs, and some clients said that they had been elsewhere first, but that NAAP care is far superior. 2011 was a diff icult year for Native Americans: the $100 billion owed for land and
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Under One Roof Raises Money for HIV/AIDS Organizations
Betty D and Brian Peters showing off some of the desserts featured on the Castro Country Club buffet table at their Thanksgiving feast.
and most of the vegetable concoctions had been devoured when Patty, an emergency room nurse, swept in with pungent turkey stuffing. Hunky Brian Peters was sprawled across a chair in a classic too-much-feasting posture, but he jumped up to thank Patty and wave his chocolate fudge bundt cake at hesitant diners. This journalist’s quote, “The only sin in San Francisco is self denial,” induced them to indulge in the all-American dessert, and they moaned as they savored it. Peters cooked wonderful lamb chops with chef Jimmy Sardina to make the club’s recent Harvest Feast a culinary success. Many people in the club’s recovery programs appreciated the dinner since they were far from their families, and they enjoyed sharing the hol(continued on page 25)
As Heard on the Street . . .
ALL P H OTO S BY R IN K
What gifts will you be giving this year?
Mark
Maggi
Santa Scott
Bruce
Robert
“Holiday ornaments from Under One Roof.”
“Small electronics items to special people.”
“Children’s books from Under One Roof for my grand niece.”
“The Rolling Stones’ Girls CD.”
“Green socks with red stripes.”
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National News Briefs Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Cops Win Legal Case over Benefits - 11.24 Two Baltimore County Police officers who were denied health benefits for their samesex spouses have won their cases before an arbitrator, the first disputes of this kind to be decided in the department. Officers Margaret Selby and Juanika Ballard got the word on Tuesday that an independent arbitrator ruled in their favor, meaning the county must provide health benefits to the women whom they each married out of state in the summer of 2009. In a 10-page opinion, the arbitrator ruled that the county violated the terms of the union contract by denying the benefits in August 2010. Source: Baltimore Sun
Boston, MA - Massachusetts Gov. Patrick signs Transgender Rights Bill - 11.23 Gov. Deval Patrick has signed a bill designed to protect transgender people from discrimination in Massachusetts. Advocates said the new law protects transgender people from discrimination in the workplace and housing by adding “gender identity and expression” to the state’s civil rights laws. The measure won support from state lawmakers after advocates agreed to drop public accommodations language that critics said would lead to a breakdown in privacy in rest rooms, locker rooms and other single-gender facilities. Source: Associated Press
Colorado - Gay Man Elected Minority Leader of Colorado House - 11.18 Democrats in the Colorado House of Representatives have ele cte d an ope nly gay man to lead their cau cus, meaning he could become House Speaker if the chamber flips back to Democratic control next year. Rep. Mark Ferrandino of Denver, who cosponsored a civil union’s bill this year that failed to pass in the Republican-controlled House, said he will work to put Democrats back in charge of the nearly evenly divided chamber. Source: gaypolitics.com
Clayton, MO - Missouri Town Passes Anti-Discrimination Measure - 11.25 The city of Clayton has become the fifth Missouri community to pass a law barring discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in employment, housing and public accommodations. Mayor Linda Goldstein says the St. Louis County community is resolved to protect the rights of all residents equally. The Clayton City Council unanimously approved the measure Tuesday. Mayor Linda Goldstein says the St. Louis County community is resolved to protect the rights of all residents equally.. Source: The Republic
Washington DC - Barney Frank Not Seeking Re-Election in 2012 - 11.28 U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, a prominent 16-term liberal Democrat from Massachusetts and arch-enemy of political conservatives nationwide, announced Monday that he does not intend to seek re-election in 2012. Frank, 71, said his decision to retire from Congress was prompted partly by changes made to the boundaries of his U.S. House district. Frank, first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1980, is the top Democrat on the powerful House Financial Services Committee. The controversial 2010 Dodd-Frank measure, designed to rein in Wall Street excesses after the 2008 financial collapse, passed the House without any GOP support. He made headlines earlier in his career by becoming one of the first openly gay members of Congress. Frank’s current district -- which extends from the affluent, liberal Boston suburbs of Newton and Brookline to the cities of New Bedford and Fall River -- is considered safe Democratic political terrain. Source: CNN
Local News Briefs Prop. 8 Case Likely Heading to Supreme Court - 11.18
Bisexual Ballplayers Settled Lawsuit with NAGAAA - 11.30
Queers Hope for More Presence at Occupy SF - 11.23
The California Supreme Court’s Proposition 8 ruling, which says official proponents of initiatives have authority to defend initiatives in state court on behalf of the voters when elected officials will not, makes it considerably more likely that the same-sex marriage controversy will end up in the U.S. Supreme Court.
After a San Francisco gay sports league told three bisexual men that they couldn’t play ball, a national alliance for gay athletics is awarding the players an undisclosed sum to settle a discrimination lawsuit. Steven Apilado, Laron Charles and John Russ were part of the San Francisco Gay Softball League for years; until they were booted from the league in 2008. After the three men were stripped of their roster positions and trophies shortly after coming in second at the 2008 Gay Softball World Series, they filed a discrimination lawsuit against the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance.
Occupy San Francisco began on September 17. That humble protest morphed into a camp outside the Federal Reserve Building at 101 Market Street, which in turn grew into the bustling tent village that currently graces the south end of Justin Herman Plaza.
The Ninth Circuit will now decide whether the initiative sponsors enjoy standing in federal court the way they do in state court. It is likely the Ninth Circuit will say yes, which means the Ninth Circuit also will address Prop. 8 on its merits. If they then affirm Walker’s ruling that there is a federal constitutional right to same-sex marriage and strike down Prop. 8, the U.S. Supreme Court may have no choice but to take up the case. The justices in Washington, D.C., could rule that unelected sponsors who are not formally appointed to speak for the state lack standing in federal court, even though they enjoy standing in state court. Or they could find federal standing and rule on the merits of same-sex marriage rights. The time line is uncertain, depending on how long it takes the Ninth Circuit to act, but all of this is likely to take more than a year - at the very least Source: Vikram Amar, a law professor at UC Davis in SFGate.com
The decision to remove them from the league came after rumors circulating that their team, D2, was full of straight ringers. League rules allow for two straight players per team. Only last week, US District Judge John Coughenour ruled that the alliance had a constitutional right to set a number of straight players as to promote that openly gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals can actively participate in competitive sports. Judge Coughenour allowed the men to pursue their discrimination suit, however, given that the trio said the questioning they were forced into was highly discriminating. Before the suit could go before a jury, the NAGAAA settled on Monday Source: rt.com
The Occupy San Francisco encampment has grown into a microcosmic city-within-the-city. It now boasts a kitchen, medical tent, welcome table, learning center with library, safe spaces for children and families, portable toilets and sinks, garbage and recycling pickup, a whiteboard listing daily workshops and committee meetings - plus at least 100 tents. Local queer activist and promoter Christopher Ray, who has been very active with Occupy camps on both sides of the bay, stated without qualification, “OWS is the single most important movement in the history of history.” But Ray went on to lament what he considered a lack of queer presence in the protests thus far. “There are only a handful of local queers, most of them Radical Faeries, who have made any sort of effort to really get involved,” Ray told the B.A.R. “This is San Francisco, one of the most activist cities on earth, and it’s time to start acting like it.” Source: Edge San Francisco BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 7
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A feature from the Bay Times Education Program with Use the News Foundation:
WORLD AIDS DAY
2011
At this moment in time, the battle against HIV/AIDS rages on, but there are unmistakable signs of hope that we are turning a World AIDS Day Events in San Francisco corner and will be able to better treat and eradicate the infectious virus. Many of you reading The Bay Times today are enjoying National AIDS Memorial Grove Observance fulfilling and productive lives with HIV/AIDS, demonstrating December 1, 11:30 AM- 1:30 PM Gate Park how an HIV positive diagnosis no longer automatically represents Golden Program includes a reading of names, activation an impending death sentence and can instead be a self-affirming of the restored Victorian Falls, and a musical performance. wake up call to life. http://www.aidsmemorial.org/ In this special section, we would therefore like to share some of the strides that are now being made against the disease, and how present efforts both at a local and national level foreshadow the pandemic’s end. We would also like to present some of the beauty and creative spirit that has emerged out of our community as a result of HIV/AIDS, demonstrating our collective resilience and unfailing strength.
Paint the Castro Red December 1 Castro District Free confidential HIV testing, participating restaurants donating a portion of sales to the 30AIDS Campaign, candlelight vigil and more. http://www.30AIDS.org/ Still Around Film Compilation at the Roxie December 1, 7:00 PM Roxie Theater, 3117 16th Street A showing of the HIV Story Project’s short film compilation Still Around. http://roxie.com/
The time is now to join in the fight against HIV/AIDS—with your donation dollars to organizations, volunteer efforts and more. Thirty years is three decades too long. With a united front, we can beat the disease and safeguard our own futures and those of upcoming generations. The end of the pandemic is in sight. Picture the celebrations that will occur when the case load drops to zero, a successful vaccine is formulated, and treatments forever stave off the disease’s progression. We must continue the fight in order to see that jubilant day of victory. The possibility is within our reach and continues to grow ever closer. Please, let’s make it happen.
World AIDS Day Special Service at Grace Cathedral December 1, 12:10 PM Grace Cathedral, California and Jones Streets A special service will be held in the Cathedral’s Chapel of Grace. A new mobile sculpture by Daniel Goldstein, entitled “Invisible Man,” is also installed in the cathedral nave through December 5. http://www.gracecathedral.org/ Unraveling Myths about Patient Zero December 15, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM GLBT History Museum 4127 18th Street near Castro Street Historian Richard McKay will present “Randy Shilts and the Creation of Patient Zero: Humanizing the AIDS Epidemic?” http://www.glbthistory.org/museum/
HIV Facts
‘Express Lane’ Expands HIV & STD Testing in the Castro Source: San Francisco AIDS Foundation
Source: WorldAIDSDay.org
Magnet, the San Francisco AIDS Foundation health center for gay and bisexual men in the Castro, recently unveiled “Express Lane,” a streamlined system for providing tests for HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). With Express Lane, customers now have the option to either access traditional counseling with HIV and STD services, or an expedited session without counseling that gets them in and out of Magnet faster. With the introduction of Express Lane, Magnet will double the number of HIV and STD tests it provides every year to approximately 8,700. “By dramatically expanding capacity, we are helping more gay and bisexual men improve their sexual health, which benefits the health of their partners and our community,”
said Steve Gibson, Magnet director. “Express Lane makes it much easier for guys to get their regular tune-ups in a more timely manner.” “As San Francisco AIDS Foundation approaches its thirtieth year, we are dramatically expanding free local services for prevention and care in hard-hit neighborhoods” said Neil Giuliano, CEO of San Francisco AIDS Foundation. “The thousands of more tests we’ll offer each year are central to our efforts to radically reduce new HIV infections in San Francisco and ensure access to proper care.” HIV testing is recommended for all HIV-negative gay and bisexual men in San Francisco every six months, regardless of risk. STD testing is recommended every three months. Magnet also provides screening and testing for syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia.
“At Magnet, we are as committed as ever to serving our community, whether that’s through increased testing or by creating a space for men to connect,” said Mark Alstead, HIV Testing Services Manager. “Express Lane is a big shift in how we operate, and it comes at just the right time. Guys should have quick, easy and free access to HIV and STD testing, and now we can make that experience available to many more customers.”
Over 90% of people with HIV were infected through sexual contact.
You can now get tested for HIV using a saliva sample.
HIV is not passed on through spitting, biting or sharing utensils.
Magnet is open six days a week, Monday through Saturday. All services are provided at no cost to customers, with donations optional. For information about Magnet, or to make an appointment for existing clients, visit www.magnetsf.org. To learn more about San Francisco AIDS Foundation’s array of free local services, go to www.sfaf.org/client-services.
Only 1% of babies born to HIV positive mothers have HIV.
You can get the results of an HIV test in just 15-20 minutes.
There is no vaccine and no cure for HIV. BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 13
Bay Times Education Program with Use the N For years, San Franciscan Ed Brownson has been HIV positive, with his first hospitalization occurring in 1995. Since then, he has also been dealing with liver cancer, chemo, a liver transplant and other medical challenges. Ed, however, refuses to be defeated. His blog has the tongue-in-cheek title “Too Stupid to Die,” but there’s nothing stupid about smart and immensely talented Ed. Many of you might remember Ed’s theater reviews for The Bay Times. He is also a prolific playwright, whose plays have been performed on local, national and international stages. He’s additionally a lauded journalist and photographer, with photography, he says, becoming “an obsession and a solace” since his transplant. Here is just a taste of his work: a delightful blog post entitled “Dog is my caregiver” and a selection of his beautiful and thought-provoking photography. For anyone dealing with HIV/ AIDS or other medical challenges, we hope that Ed’s courage and warm spirit can serve as an inspiration. All photos © 2011 Ed Brownson http://www.flickr.com/photos/ejbsf/
Dog is My Caregiver [Apologies to BARK Magazine for riffing on their slogan.]
I’m not one to play the disability card. To the scoldings of many, I’ve refused for years to get a “handicapped” placard for my car though I’m eligible. My attitude towards those things is: if I can’t walk, I can’t drive. (Yes, yes, I know: one size does not fit all.) The only exception I’ve allowed myself – until now – has been my transit discount card. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area and though we grouse incessantly about it, we are blessed with good transit. I think everybody should have a transit discount card, at least until transit reaches funding parity with our over-subsidized automobiles. You’ll pry mine, as the saying goes, from my cold rigored fingers. There is absolutely NO truth to the idea... Anyway, I pulled another benefit from the disability stack last week: I got my dog, Otto, declared an assistance dog. I’m both embarrassed and relieved to have him so marked. Otto is 20 lbs and fiercely intelligent but trust me: his brain is the only fierce tissue in his body. He arrived in my life just a few months before the premiere of my liver cancer / transplant drama and if I’d known what was coming, I’d never have gotten him. Now I look upon his arrival as divine intervention, likely instigated by my late mother. (Mom survived by tackling the tough ones, but was not above a bit of consoling along the way). It is understatement to say I wouldn’t have made it through these past two years without Otto. Declaring a dog as an assistant – or service animal in government-speak – is made possible by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) first enacted in 1990. Some who don’t know anyone with a disability know the ADA only from its excesses: sensational news reports of a half-million dollars spent on a ramp to a government trailer worth $50,000 and that sort of thing. But the act does a lot of good for those who need it; for many it changed the world. Among its statutes, it establishes the right to service animals. Here’s the government’s non-legalese description: Service animals are animals that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities – such as guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Service animals are working animals, not pets. Reading that description you can guess where my embarrassment comes from. Otto as guide? Only if he’s guiding someone to a gopher. Pulling wheelchairs? He’s strong for his size but… no. And I haven’t had any seizures lately (read: ever) so he doesn’t qualify there. No, Otto falls in the “other special tasks” category. In his case his task is emotional support. Now before you laugh – or after you stop – remember this is California and more specifically San Francisco, and we do such things here. It helps that the ADA leaves it up to localities to define “service.” For me the “other special tasks” Otto performs are crucial. Over the last two years I’ve learned a lot about myself, and I’ve also learned things about Otto and dogs in general, some of them downright amazing. His sense of my relative health is unerring. One amusing example (to me anyway): being male and living alone, I don’t close the door to the bathroom. Well, periodically Otto follows me in and stands next to the toilet, nose ready, waiting for me to begin. When I pee, he does what I’ve come to call the sniff test. If he’s satisfied with how things come out he just walks away, but if he’s disturbed by what he’s smelling he hangs around, rubs my legs, even lets out a little bark. During a few really bad periods, he’s stormed out the bathroom as if angry. Sound far fetched? Well, consider what researchers are doing in teaching dogs to smell cancer cells in our breath and in our urine. Otto often knows how I’m doing better than I do. If it’s walk time and I’m on the couch and feeling achy or down, I don’t get a pass. Walk time is walk time, get off yer butt. Invariably I feel better after, even if we only manage a few blocks. But if I’m really sick, he doesn’t even ask and even resists if I try, snuggling down with me for a nap instead. And he just refuses to play tuggy with me after surgery. Tugging on a rope is his favorite game, but he won’t even bring me the rope if he judges I’m not fit for it. My most amazing experience with Otto-as-caregiver happened in January when I descended into medical hell. After each of three hospitalizations, Jeff brought Otto along when picking me up. The first two times – when I was getting worse though I didn’t yet know it – Otto’s initial ecstatic greeting immediately morphed into horror as he got a smell of me. Both times he backed away into a corner of the car, staring at me with an awful “what is WRONG with you???” look. The third time they busted me out – by then I was quite nervous about passing this particular “Otto test” – he sniffed, made his judgment, then showered me in kisses and settled happily on my lap. I passed. And I got better. How does a little 20 lb. half-Dachshund, half-Jack Russell-with-a-dash-of-Beagle know all this? He’s grown up watching me go through this stuff; he was only seven weeks old when he arrived and three months when Dr. Cassandra called. Is he just used to my struggles? Is it only our particular history together that created this awareness and sensitivity in him? Or is it more? I have become obsessed with dogs, reading every book and watching every documentary on the beasts I can find. Dogs continue to amaze the scientists and certainly me. I think they would amaze everyone but we don’t notice how unique they are because they’re such a regular part of our lives. No species on earth comes in as many varieties as they do. And it seems the “which animal is smarter” debate is a canard. Chimps are smarter than dogs, no question. Yet when it comes to reading and responding to humans, knowing what we’re doing often before we do – researchers call it recognizing social cues – dogs win paws down. So how is Otto “assisting” me? Why did I cave and grab this particular disability benefit? I can say it’s because now I have the right to bring him with me on transit – important when I’m too addled to drive – or because it guarantees that he can’t be evicted should my landlord decide dogs are no longer welcome. True, both. But it’s more than that. Laugh if you like, but the bond between a dog and someone “disabled” is downright transcendent. When I’m feeling bad Otto’s there commiserating. But when I’m better all that nasty stuff – the hospital, the pain, the hard times – never happened. Do you understand what I’m saying? Even though Otto clearly retains some memory of my situation, when the bad stuff ends, it is gone. Gone. No person – no matter how close, no matter how caring – can hope to achieve what a dog can when it comes to treating those of us living with a chronic condition or illness as undamaged goods. This is indescribably liberating, a gift if there ever was one. And right now I so much need to keep tight hold of this gift. With Otto, when I’m feeling good all that matters is, it’s tuggy time. Well, maybe there’s a little truth to the idea. From: Too Stupid to Die: http://www.toostupidtodie.net/2008/05/18/dog-is-my-caregiver/
World AIDS Day History Timeline *World AIDS Campaign data 1988: The International AIDS Society is formed. 1989: The US Congress creates the National Commission on AIDS. 1990: UNAIDS reports that 8 million people worldwide are living with HIV.
1991: At the Tony Awards, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and Visual AIDS in the US first introduce the Red Ribbon international symbol for HIV. 1992: The International Community for Women Living with HIV/AIDS is founded.
14 BAY TIMES DECEM BER 1, 2011
1993: The CDC, NIH, and FDA declare in a joint statement that condoms are “highly effective” for prevention of HIV infection.
1995: The first combination therapy, HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy), is approved for use in the US.
1994: Scientists develop the first treatment regime to reduce mother-to-child transmission. Due to use of AZT, infant HIV infections begin to drop in developed countries.
1996: Combination therapy proves to be effective, with many people in developed countries starting to take the treatment.
1997: The World AIDS Campaign, managed by UNAIDS, is launched.
the global epidemic. It leads to increased funding.
1998: Treatment Action Campaign, a grassroots movement in South Africa, forms.
2000: The UN Security Council discusses HIV/AIDS for the first time.
1999: President Clinton announces the “Leadership and Investment in Fighting an Epidemic” (LIFE) initiative to address
2001: The United Nations General Assembly convenes the first ever special session on AIDS UNGASS), where the Declaration
News Foundation: "World AIDS Day 2011" Arts & AIDS — 30 Years Through December 3, Gay Men’s Health Crisis and the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art in New York are presenting “Art & AIDS: 30 Years,” a nationally lauded exhibition featuring 50 artists living with HIV/ AIDS. The exhibition is an outcome of work from weekly therapeutic art classes as part of GMHC’s Volunteer, Work and Wellness Center. Art teachers donate their time to teach classes for GMHC’s clients (consisting of professional and non-professional artists), and assist in curating the annual exhibition. The artists are able to sell their artwork, which increases financial independence, particularly for those who live on a limited income. As Marjorie J. Hill, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of GMHC, explains, “For many of the artists, participating in the art classes is a healing experience to express emotions about living with HIV/AIDS and the epidemic overall.” Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art 26 Wooster Street (at Grand Street) New York City http://leslielohman.org/
Artist: Shungaboy | “Trio Lounging by Pool” Acrylic on Bristol Paper | 19” x 24”
Artist: George Towne | “Mike with Skull” | Oil on canvas | 20” x 24”
Artist: George Towne | “Peter Staley/Silence = Death” | Lithograph on Paper | 28” x 20”
of Commitment is signed by 189 member states. 2002: The Global Fund is launched to boost response to AIDS, TB and malaria, with the first round of grants approved. 2003: President Bush announces PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS
Relief). PEPFAR is a five-year 15 billion dollar initiative to address HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria.
on addressing HIV/AIDS in Africa and other hard hit regions of the world.
2004: UNAIDS launches The Global Coalition of Women and AIDS.
2006: The first Eastern European and Central Asian AIDS conference is held in Moscow.
2005: The World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos includes a priority focus
2007: The International HIV/AIDS Implementers Meeting hosted by the Rwandan
Artist: Brian Crede | “David Bondage” | Mixed Media - Cut Pape | 20” x 16”
government draws over 1,500 delegates to share lessons on HIV, prevention, treatment and care. 2008: For the first time, a UNAIDS report on the global AIDS epidemic notes signs of major progress in the global AIDS response.
2009: Newly inaugurated U.S. President Obama changes rules that had prevented funding reaching organizations that provide services linked with abortion. 2010: A UNAIDS report on the global AIDS epidemic notes signs of declines in new infections.
2011: Just ahead of the 30th anniversary of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, UNAIDS announces that new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths continue to fall, and the number of people on treatment has risen to nearly 50 percent of those eligible, despite an overall drop in global funding.
BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 15
Rectal Microbicide Could Reduce HIV Transmission Source: UCLA A topically applied microbicide gel containing a potent anti-HIV drug has been found to significantly reduce infection when applied to rectal tissue that was subsequently exposed to HIV in the laboratory, according to a new study by the UCLA AIDS Institute. The gel was also found to be safe and acceptable to users. The first-ever phase 1 clinical trial of the rectal HIV-prevention drug known as UC781, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, was recently described in the journal PLoS ONE. The trial represents the first use of this novel approach to obtain early insights into the drug’s potential to prevent real-life infections during sexual exposure. In addition, it represents an important contribution to efforts aimed at strategically preventing HIV transmission during receptive anal intercourse. While anal-receptive intercourse is known to be the main route for new HIV infections in men who have sex with men, far more women than men worldwide practice anal intercourse. The risk of HIV infection, per sex act, is anywhere from 20 to 2,000 times greater with receptive anal sex than receptive vaginal sex — particularly if there are other infections present, such as herpes, gonorrhea or chlamydia, according to the study’s lead author, Dr. Peter Anton, a professor of medicine in the division of digestive diseases at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.
Artist: Eljay | “Bear White Tree” | Bear Mountain
The significant reduction in the ability of HIV to infect tissues treated with the drug was surprising, Anton said, as this was a new index in clinical trials. Typically, phase 1 clinical trials focus primarily on safety.
Top 10 Myths About HIV Vaccine Research
“While the main goal of this trial was also to evaluate safety, these new
The HIV Vaccine Trials Network, headquartered at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, debunks the top 10 myths about HIV vaccine research.
small pox and has almost eliminated polio. Most likely it will be an HIV vaccine that eliminates HIV from the world. Vaccines are an effective, affordable and practical option.
Myth No. 1: HIV vaccines can give people HIV. HIV vaccines do not contain HIV and therefore a person cannot get HIV from the HIV vaccine. Some vaccines, like those for typhoid or polio, may contain a weak form of the virus they are protecting against, but this is not the case for HIV vaccines. Scientists make HIV vaccines so that they look like the real virus, but they do not contain any HIV. Think of it like a photocopy: It might look similar, but it isn’t the original. In the past 25 years more than 30,000 volunteers have taken part in HIV vaccine studies worldwide, and no one has been infected with HIV by any of the vaccines tested – because they do not contain HIV. Myth No. 2: An HIV vaccine already exists. There is no licensed vaccine against HIV or AIDS, but scientists are getting closer than ever before to developing an effective vaccine against HIV. In 2009, a large-scale vaccine study conducted in Thailand called RV144 showed that a vaccine combination could prevent about 32 percent of new infections. Researchers are starting to understand why this vaccine combination worked and how to improve upon it. Researchers around the world continue to search for an HIV vaccine that is even more effective. Leading this effort is the HIV Vaccine Trials Network, the largest publicly funded
group of HIV vaccine researchers in the world. The HVTN is an international effort to find a safe and effective vaccine to stop the spread of HIV. It is funded by the US National Institutes of Health. Myth No. 3: Joining an HIV-vaccine study is like being a guinea pig. Unlike guinea pigs, people can say yes or no to participating in research. All study volunteers must go through a process called informed consent that ensures they understand all of the risks and benefits of being in a study, and those volunteers are reminded that they may leave a study at any time without losing rights or benefits. The HVTN takes great care in making sure people understand the study fully before they decide whether or not to join. All HVTN research adheres to US federal regulations on research, as well as the international standards for the countries in which it conducts research. Myth No. 4: A person must be HIV positive to be in an HIV vaccine study. Not so. While some research groups are conducting studies of vaccines that might be used in people who are already infected with HIV, the vaccines being tested by the HVTN are preventive vaccines. They must be tested on volunteers who are not infected with HIV. Myth No. 5: Vaccine researchers want study participants to practice unsafe behaviors so they can see whether the vaccine really works. Not true. The safety of study participants is the No. 1 priority of HIV vaccine researchers and study site staff. Trained coun-
16 BAY TIMES DECEM BER 1, 2011
selors work with study participants to help them develop an individual plan on how to keep from contracting HIV. Participants also are given supplies such as condoms and lubricant as well as instructions on how to use them properly. HIV efficacy trials enroll thousands of participants over several years, and with even with the best counseling some participants will still become infected through their risky behavior. Changing human behavior is never easy; after all, many people still smoke, even though it is widely known that smoking is the major cause of lung cancer. An AIDS epidemic would not exist if prevention were as simple as counseling people to change their risky behavior. Myth No. 6: Now that there are pills that can prevent HIV infection, an HIV vaccine is no longer necessary. HIV-negative people who are at high risk can take antiretroviral medication daily to try to lower their chances of becoming infected if they are exposed to the virus. This type of therapy – called PrEP, short for PreExposure Prophylaxis – has been shown to be effective among those at high risk. However, it has not yet been recommended for widespread use. PrEP is unlikely to be an option for everyone because the pills are expensive and are not always covered by insurance, may cause side effects, and not everyone has access to them. Remembering to take a pill every day is also challenging for some people. The most effective way to eliminate a disease is by using an effective vaccine. It was a vaccine that eliminated
Myth No. 7: An HIV vaccine is unnecessary because AIDS is easily treated and controlled, just like diabetes. While treatment for AIDS has dramatically improved over the last 30 years, it is no substitute for prevention. Current HIV medications are very expensive, and there are also many side effects. Sometimes people develop drug resistance and have to change the regimen of pills they take. Access to these drugs for the uninsured in the US and those in the developing world is also very limited. Myth No. 8: The search for an HIV vaccine has been going on for a long time and it’s just not possible to find one that works. The science of HIVvaccine development is challenging, but scientific understanding continues to improve all the time. In just the past two years there have been promising results from the RV144 study in Thailand as well as exciting laboratory work, such as the discovery of new broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV. HIV is a powerful opponent, but scientists are constantly learning from one another and using advanced technology to fight it. Science has come a long way in the 30 years since AIDS was discovered. In comparing preventive HIV vaccine work to other vaccine development, the time it has taken is not so surprising; the polio vaccine took 47 years to develop.
tests enabled us to evaluate, indirectly, whether this drug and route of delivery might potentially reduce new HIV infections,” said Anton, also a member of t he UCL A A I DS Institute.” These trials, fortunately, have had successful results in the past year, after nearly a decade of disappointment. But the development of a microbicide prevention gel for rectal application has only been under way for the past five to six years. In the current trial, researchers tested a formulation of the gel that was created for vaginal use in human trials and that contained two concentrations of UC781. They enrolled 36 male and female subjects at UCLA who were not infected with HIV, and they collected blood and rectal tissue samples at baseline, before participants were randomized to either a placebo group or to receive one of two concentrations of UC781. All participants were given the placebo or active drug as a single exposure by the team’s clinicians, with research samples collected 30 minutes later for analysis. After two to three weeks, the participants resumed the second part of the trial by applying the gel or placebo once daily over seven days on their own at home. Afterwards, they returned to the clinic for another collection of samples. All participants completed the study once they were enrolled. In-depth interviews with each participant assessed their acceptability of the current form of the product. Though the microbicide used for this study was formulated for vaginal use, the same team of researchers has also developed a rectal-specific microbicide gel, which they plan to start testing in a clinical trial in January 2012.
Myth No. 9: Vaccines cause autism and just aren’t safe. This is not true. Numerous studies in the past decade have found this claim to be false. The British doctor who originally published the finding about vaccines and autism has since been found to have falsified his data. There is actually no link between childhood vaccination and autism. It is true that vaccines often have side effects, but those are typically temporary (like a sore arm, low fever, muscle aches and pains) and go away after a day or two. The value of protection to vaccinated individuals and to the public has made vaccines one of the top public health measures in history, second only to having a clean water supply. Myth No. 10: People who aren’t at risk don’t need an HIV vaccine. A person currently may not be at risk for HIV, but life situations can change along with disease risk. Such a vaccine also may be important for one’s children or other family members and friends. By being knowledgeable about preventive HIV vaccine research, a person can be part of the solution by educating friends and family about the importance of such research and debunking the myths that surround it. Even if a person is not at risk, he or she can be part of the effort to find a vaccine that will hopefully save the lives of millions of people worldwide. To learn more about HIV vaccine studies in San Francisco and how you can become a volunteer, please visit SFisReady.org.
Arts&Entertainment AIDS Grove Documentary on PBS on World Aids Day Film
Dennis McMillan
The Grove documentary will be televised hundreds of times across the PBS TV network on Dec. 1, honoring World AIDS Day with around the clock broadcasts throughout the country. More Americans have been lost to AIDS than in all the U.S. wars since 1900. Yet few know about the National AIDS Memorial Grove, a seven acre sanctuary hidden in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and a testament to lives lost at a time when the stigma of AIDS forced many to grieve in silence. As we mark the 30th anniversary of the first AIDS cases in the U.S., how do we remember a time of unimaginable loss, and who owns grief in the public sphere? The Grove begins as an unlikely love story during the gay community’s coming-of-age in San Francisco before AIDS struck, and chronicles the devastation that this plague and its stigma wrought on the community. Overwhelmed by unrelenting personal losses, several prominent California environmentalists began corralling their grief and transformed a neglected parcel of land into a beautiful sanctuary. This new PBS documentary shows how a community in crisis found healing and remembrance, and how
PHOTO COURT ESY OF OP EN EY E P IC T URES
By Dennis McMillan
The Grove will air on PBS on World AIDS Day, December 1. The documentary tells how the Bay Area community remembered and healed during the AIDS crisis.
the seeds of a few visionary environmentalists blossomed into something larger than they could have imagined. But the fight to remember takes an unexpected turn when stakeholders of the Grove seek broader public recognition through an international design competition, and a battle erupts about what constitutes an appropriate memorial to the AIDS epidemic, and what is the responsibility of a national memorial.
In October 1996, Congress and the President approved the National AIDS Memorial Grove Act, proclaiming the Grove a nationally designated memorial, on par with only a handful of other sites in the U.S., including Mount Rushmore and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
ground-breaking app that connects memorials to place and people. Cutting-edge mapping and augmented reality technologies link memorial tributes to “places where memories live.” z will be available in the iTunes App Store in early December during World AIDS Awareness Month.
Emmy nominated filmmakers Andy Abrahams Wilson (Under Our Skin) and Tom Shepard (Scouts Honor). The Grove was an official selection at Full Frame and Hot Springs documentary film festivals and was awarded “Best Documentary Feature” at the Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival.
In addition to the national broadcast, an exciting interactive iPhone and iPad application has been created to complement the film: iMemorial is a
Co-presented by the Independent Television Service and KQED-TV in San Francisco, The Grove is produced by Sundance award-winning and
Write to Dennis McMillan at BayTimesDennis@juno.com.
Tennessee Williams... Timeless Drama For Now Theater
Lynn Ruth Miller "All of us are guinea pigs in the laboratory of God. Humanity is just a work in progress." -Tennessee Williams
“Of all the great American playwrights, Tennessee Williams is our most important,” said Jasson Minadakis, Artistic Director of Marin Theatre Company and director of The Glass Menagerie that opens November 29, at Marin Theatre Company in Mill Valley. “Unlike those who worked from the classical tra-
dition, Williams created his own unique style.” Minadakis is not the only director in the Bay Area who has brought Williams’ work to our stages. Back in May, Actor’s Theatre gave us a spectacular version of A Streetcar Named Desire directed by founder and Artistic Director Christian Phillips and earlier in the year, that theater presented Cat On A Hot Tin Roof to sell-out houses. Many of the plays the Phillips’ select are products of the gay community and for a very good reason “Gay writers are some of the best playwrights in American Theater,” said Christian. “And the largest identifiable group of theatergoers is from that community. Tennessee William’s plays span the generations; their appeal is timeless. Barbara M ichelson-Harder (Executive Director, Off Broadway West Theatre Company) won a Best Actress Award of her portrayal of Blanche in A Streetcar Named Desire and she says, “Tennessee Williams is one of the icons of American literature. He has captured the pains and joys of the Southern Woman. He understands her soul, her struggles, how, caught by the constraints of her society, she tries to survive.”
Tennessee Williams died in 1983 after years of struggling with his sexual orientation and alienation from the conservative south where he was born.
Indeed every woman, everywhere can identify with Amanda, Maggie and Blanche, all determined to keep up appearances and still capture their
own brass ring. It is rare indeed that a man can capture the essence of what makes these women both vulnerable and incredibly strong. Williams’ characterizations are spot-on. There is never a false note in his dialogue and his characters are so real, you feel you just saw them walking down the street. San Francisco Playhouse’s Bill English is reviving Williams' long forgotten holiday "serious comedy" Period of Adjustment, this month as well (www. sfplayhouse.org). The playwright wrote this lighter piece while working on three other scripts, including The Night of the Iguana, which would mark the end of his Broadway popularity. Because this year is the centennial of William’s birth, it is a perfect excuse to revive his heart rendering work and give new and younger audiences the opportunity of relating to his eternal themes. Like most of the characters he creates, Williams was a troubled soul and his compassion for those of us in emotional pain resonates in all of his plays. He received four Drama Critic Circle Awards, two Pulitzer Prizes and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Yet, critics attacked him and Cardinal Spellman blacklisted him. Still few would argue that he is one of our all time greats. In his production of The Glass Menagerie, Minadakis is creating a sense of
distance between Tom, the narrator and the Tom we see interacting with his mother and sister on stage. “The narrator is considerably older than Tom is,” said Minadakis. “We are highlighting the fact that you what you are seeing is from his memory.” The play is set during The Depression and Minadakis never lets his audience forget that this is a family who can barely survive. “When I read the play, I see the tiny space that the family is crammed into…and Tom’s sense of being trapped,” said Minadakis. “Amanda is doing her best to make a life for her daughter at the expense of Tom. I think this situation happens still: where one member of the family has to give up his dream for another.” Tennessee Williams died twenty eight years ago in a hotel room cluttered with empty wine bottles and bottles of pills. He wrote about the alienation he fought as a gay man born in the conservative South. When the family moved to St. Louis, it was the same as moving to a different country for Williams, so different were the cultural expectations and the social rules to “fit in.” His was a tortured soul and his gift was his ability to personify his own suffering and give us insight into our own. His plays are memorable because they are as real today as they were when they were written. All hu(continued on page 20)
BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 17
FILM
Brilliant Fela! Gets You Out of Your Seat
STILL AROUND Movie Featured on World Aids Day Film Review
Terry Baum
Sister Dana Van Iquity
How do you m a ke a Broadw ay musica l about t he chaot ic, v io lent, stoned, intensely creative life of Fela Kuti? Fela was a Nigerian mu s ic i a n a nd p ol it ic a l r a d ic a l whose star blazed across the world until his death in 1997. A Broadway musical is an inherently precise, disciplined phenomenon. To capture the brilliant mess of this A fr ican man's life is not so easy in a huge opulent theater where the audience sits politely and quiet ly, wa it i ng to be enter t a i ned. The great choreographer Bill T. Jones, and his collaborators, have brought together the disparate element s of Fela's l i fe to create a powerful, moving -- and just plain fun -- evening of theater. The f irst act is a recreation of a night at Fela's club, The Shrine. Fela and his gang of singers and dancers enter t hrough t he aud ience, to tell the story of his life to us, the patrons of the club. Fela, a l w ay s b a t h e d i n w h it e l i g ht , dominates with his charisma, genius and ferocious will to save his beloved Nigeria. Fela teaches us about i mper ia lism and colonia l ism. He gets us up of f our seats clapping and responding to his calls. The colorfully costumed dancers, four men a nd ov e r a d o z e n wome n (t he Queens), stomp and swirl and f ly across the stage to the propulsive AfroBeat f lowing from the excellent band onstage. If this energ y could be bottled, we could begin to wea n our selves from our addiction to oil. The protean Fela is himself one of the orig inators of AfroBeat, in which Western rock meet s t he power of t he A fr ica n drums. Fela tells of his youth and his inspir ing and adored mother, who was a feminist and a political reformer. Fela tells us of his travels. I n L os A ngeles, he fa l ls i n love w it h Sa nd ra, a pol it ica l rad ica l who opens his eyes to the possibilit y of creating a better world.
P H OTO B Y T RIST RAM K E N TO N
Theater Review
Melanie Marshall and Sahr Ngaujah in Fela, at The Curren Theatre through Dec. 11.
( I couldn't help but wonder if the American inf luence on Fela's life had been exaggerated a tiny bit.). Fela's mother Funmilayo, played w it h m ajest y by Mel a n ie M a rs h a l l , app e a r s on t he c at w a l k , surrounded by rays of light as if she'd already become a saint. She repeatedly calls Fela home to Nigeria to confront the generals and call the people to action. In order to reach beyond Nigeria to a cont inent w ith count less lang uages, he writes lyrics in pidgin English. In the f irst act, Fela tells and tells and tells us - - about histor y, his personal stor y, Nigerian politics. But u lt i m ately, t heater i s most power ful when it shows us rather t ha n tel l s us about l i fe. T he portrayal of an evening at Fela's Shr ine never fully pulled me in. Watch i ng t he people onst age, I yearned to have been at the actual Shrine where Fela performed. But I never forgot I was sitting in the Curran Theater in San Francisco. But that distance between me and the show disappeared after intermission. The second act foregoes the telling to SHOW the audience t he g reat cr i s i s a nd t r a gedy of Fela's life. Fela was arrested over 200 times for his outspoken songs a nd cha l lenges to t he Niger ia n rulers. Often he was beaten by his jailers. He lived and performed in Lagos in a huge compound which he procla i med t he I ndependent Republic of K a la kuta (shades of the Occupy movement -- long before it was born!). Finally, the dictators could take no more of Fela's
nose-thumbing. Ever y element of theater is brought together to create this violent confrontation onstage. L ights, v ideo, sound, music, dance, acting all combined to f ina l ly sweep me out of my seat and set me in the middle of the Independent Republic of Kalakuta, as it is being stormed by 1,000 soldiers. Then mother and son come together in a wrenchingly beaut i f u l u n ion, a s Fu n m i layo d ies. T h is mot ivates Fela's incomprehensible act of braver y A F T E R t he at t ack , wh ich wou ld not be believable if he hadn't really done it. Once again, Fela confronts the r u ler s, t h is t i me set t i ng mot her in her cof f in on the steps of the P res ident i a l Pa l a ce. H i s moc ker y of t he absurd it y of pol it ica l r e pr e s s ion do e s n' t s t o p e it her : " B .Y.O.C ." - - Br i ng You r O w n Cof f in -- is his motto and song in this f inal action of the play. Fela lived on a mythic level, even creat i ng h i s ow n nat ion w it h i n the nation that he both despised a nd loved. T he combi nat ion of enor mous a r t i st ic t a lent w it h a power fu l pol it ica l v ision is rare enough. But t he per sona l cou ra g e Fe l a d i s pl aye d t h r ou ghout h i s l i fe i s hu mbl i ng to w it ness. Even after the destruction of his Republ ic, a nd t he k i l l i ng of h is mother, Fela continued to live in Lagos, sing ing and taunt ing t he dictators until he died. He lives on t hrough t heir memor ies, t hrough h is music, and t hrough this musical. FEL A!
The HIV Story Project - a media nonprof it based in San Francisco - is present i ng S T I L L A ROU N D on World A I DS Day, T hursday, Dec. 1, 7pm at t he Rox ie T he at re, 3117 16t h St reet at Va lencia. Bot h f i lmma kers and ta lent are expected to be in attendance. ST I L L A ROUN D ( USA 2011, 82 minutes) is a feature length, short f ilm compilation about people living and thriving with HIV/A IDS as we enter the fourth decade of one of the world’s most substantial health pandemics. It is a coll abor at ion a mong 16 Bay A rea d irectors - bot h establ ished and emer g i ng - who worked c losely with individuals who have powerful, personal stories to share about H I V/A I DS - i nc lud i ng women, men, gay and straight, transgender, young and old, and people of many ethnic backgrounds. A mix of st r a ight for w a rd vér ité m i n idocumentaries, spoken word pieces, dance f ilms, and experimental shorts, STIL L AROUND paints an unmatched portrait of how people thrive and sur v ive in the face of long term illness. Some of the stories include: Roxanne, an A frican-A merican spoken word ar t ist; Jorge, a L at ino HIV counselor and BDSM educator; Elaine, a Napa housewife and mother turned writer; Tita A ida, a transgendered Asian-American performer and sexual health colu m n i s t /e d uc at or ; D e mond , a n A fr ican-A mer ican former pr ison i n m at e, now A I D S pr e vent ion worker; Sylv ia, a Lat ina mot her and grandmother; Sister Vicious Power Hungr y Bitch of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc.; Duane Cramer, an award winning A frican-A merican photographer; A l ic, a t ra nsgender w r iter, performer, and activist; A li, a Latina social worker; and Matt, an artist whose face was disf igured due to crystal meth addiction.
"Ritual" by Jorg Fockele is part of STILL AROUND playing at The Roxie on Dec. 1.
Tickets for the specia l presentation are $12 and can be purchased on l i ne a t t he R ox ie T he a t e r ’s w eb s it e: ht t p:// b it . l y/S T I L L _ A rou nd _ Rox ie or at t he Rox ie box of f ice – i f not a l ready sold out . A por t ion of t he proceed s from ticket sales will go to UCSF A I DS Hea lt h Project, a lead ing HIV/A IDS service agency in San Francisco that is also copresenting the Roxie Theater screening. The ticket price includes a double feature, the second f ilm - Sex in an Epidemic, directed by Jean Carolmusto screening at 8:45pm. “A s we ma rk t he 30 t h a n n ivers a r y o f H I V/A I D S o n Wo r l d A I DS Day, ST IL L A ROUN D has emerged as a uniquely power ful panorama of diverse stor ies that is inspiring audiences to continue t h i n k i ng a nd ref lec t i ng on t he global A IDS pandemic,” says Execut ive Producer Marc Smolowitz. He adds, “In addition to the special presentation at the Roxie Theater in our home city of San Francisco, the compilation is bei n g pr es ented i n mor e t h a n 15 cities around the world on World A I D S D ay a s p a r t of O ut c a s t F i l m s’ tou r i n g s er ies H I V@ 30: Looking Back, Moving Forward.”
World Tree of Hope Ceremony to be Held at City Hall of hope. Per for mer s a re Academy Award w inner R ita Moreno, Emmy Award winner Peter Coyote, singer Josh K lipp, and singer Veronica K laus accompanied by Tammy Hall. A party with compl i ment a r y l i ght r ef r e s h ment s , wine, and soft drinks will continue until 8pm.
Rita Moreno will perform during The World Tree of Hope ceremony on Dec. 5.
By Dennis McMillan T he of f ic i a l u n v e i l i n g of T he Wor ld Tr e e of Ho p e w i l l t a k e place at a public dedication ceremony Mond ay, Dec. 5 at 5:3 0 pm in Sa n Fra ncisco Cit y Ha l l. The ceremony is a free event that beg ins w ith a concert at 5:30pm by t he Grammy Award w inn ing Sa n Fr a nc i sco B oy s Chor u s . It continues with remarks scheduled for 6 pm by M ayor E d w i n L ee. Donna Sachet will be the emcee. Consul General of Japan Hiroshi I nomat a w i l l del iver a message 18 BAY T IMES DECEM BER 1, 2011
P HOTO C REDIT - T H E H IV P RO JE C T / O UTC AST F I LMS
Theater
Mayor Edwin Lee joins the Rainb o w Wo r l d F u n d ( RW F ) , t h e only international humanitar ian aid organization that is based in t he LGBT commun it y, to inv ite t he people of t he world to sub mit w ishes to decorate the “The World Tree of Hope” in San Francisco City Hall’s Grand Rotunda. A un ique a nd i nspirat iona l feat u re of Sa n Fr a nc i sco’s hol iday season since its inception in 2006, The World Tree of Hope - featur ing over 7,0 0 0 white or igami cranes and silver stars, each containing written wishes for the future of the world from individuals across the nation and around the globe - has evolved into a global s y mbol of u n it y a nd hope for a better world. “ T he World Tree of Hope t aps i nt o t wo of ou r mo st p ower f u l resources – the human mind and (continued on page 25)
CRIS
FILM
P H OTO B Y MI C H AE L FASSB E N DE R
A Shame Sex-Addict Film Shame Isn’t Better
Michael Fassbender plays a sex addict in Steve McQueen's film Shame.
Brandon is emotionally dead; he feels not h i ng. He is empt y. Naked.
Film Review Gary Kramer Shame, d irected by Steve McQ u e e n ( H u n g e r ) , i s a n i nt e n s e cha r acter st udy about Br a ndon ( M ichael Fassbender), a sex add ic t w it h i nt i m a c y i s s ue s . But t h is f i l m, wh ich is get t i ng buzz - Mand an NC-17 rating - for its sexual content, is not really about a ny t h i ng. Br a ndon ha s copious a mou nt s of sex i n t he f i l m. He has sex w ith women of d if ferent ethnicit ies. He has sex w ith t wo women at once. He has a guy suck h i m of f. Br a ndon do esn’t even need other people to get of f. He masturbates at every opportunity - in the shower, in his of f ice men’s room, and at his home computer. V iewer s g et t hei r f i r st gl i mpse of Brandon naked, wrapped i n a sheet i n h is bed. He st a res vacantly at the ceiling, and only because he bl in ks does he ma ke a ny i nd ic at ion t hat he i s a l ive.
Ignoring his sister Sissy’s (Carey Mulligan) multiple phone messages, Brandon walks naked through h is apa r t ment - a sleek , ster i le, soulless environment that ref lects h is empt y cha racter. Aud iences get an eyeful of Fassbender - his f laccid pen is, h is muscu la r ass, his wir y body. But there is nothing else to him. He is skin deep, like this f ilm. On the subway, Brandon undresses a passenger with his eyes. They make contact, but she eludes him. In another pickup ef fort, Brandon a c c ompa n ie s h i s m a r r ie d b o s s Dav id ( Ja mes Badge Da le) to a bar. David tries to get a woman’s at tent ion, but Br a ndon is more attractive, and she picks him up. They fuck under the word “fuck,” written in graf f iti, in case viewers needed more emphasis. T he f i l m i s r i fe w it h suc h u n s u b t l e t i e s . W he n B r a n d o n r e tur ns home one night, his sister ha s entered h is apa r t ment. She i s pl ay i ng “ I Wa nt You r L ove” on t he stereo. It’s a na ked plea for af fect ion. Brandon d iscovers Sissy in his shower. ( Yes, Mulligan gets an extended full frontal nude scene, too). She is emotionally needy. The physically needy Brandon agrees to put her up for a few days. A las, it means he can’t
WILLIAMSON &
br ing woman back to h is apar tment for sex. After Sissy performs a concer t at a c lub, she br i ng s Dav id back to Bra ndon’s apa r tment to f uck h i m - u nawa re or unconcer ned t hat Dav id is bot h married and Brandon’s boss. This prov ides one of t he few mora l ly complex moments in the f ilm. S h a m e f i n a l l y g e t s i nt e r e s t i n g when Brandon goes out on a date w it h Mar ianne ( Nicole Behar ie) a comely coworker. They have an awkward d inner where Brandon espouses his thoughts on not havi ng rel at ion sh ips , a t u r nof f for M a r ia n ne. H i s react ion to t h i s b a d d a t e i nv o l v e s s e l f- h a t r e d , self-abuse, and then a f ight with his sister. Brandon’s inabi lit y to connect w ith Marianne the next day in a hotel room leads to him to fur t her debasing h imsel f. He event ua l ly get s i nto a ba r f ight and seeks sexual release in a gay c lub a nd t hen a g a i n w it h t wo women. Yet Bra ndon’s dow nwa rd spi ra l h a rd ly seem s compel l i ng. T h i s i s p erh ap s b e c au s e Fa s sb ender ma kes Brandon a t ight ly wound cipher. There is a hint that he and Sissy were incestuously intimate, but it is not developed enough. N o r i s t h i s a n e x c u s e fo r h i s reckless behavior - or hers. A subplot i nvolv i ng her “ frag i l it y ” is si mply foreshadow i ng for a big e m o t i o n a l /d r a m a t i c m o m e n t . W hen it comes , however, t here is hardly any emotion, just some eye-rolling drama.
This is t he problem w it h Shame. McQ ueen a nd Fa s sb ender st r ug gle to get Br a ndon to feel something. He loses himself in sex because he has no emotion. Sissy, in contrast, is all emotion. But the f ilm is too cool, too tedious, too uninspired to generate any passion. Sure, the actors go at it with
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Sister Dana Says . . .
Sister Dana Van Iquity is Donning Now His Gay Apparel
Holy holly and hallelujah, Handel! It’s beg inning to look a lot like Chr istmas. Let’s be sure to keep t he “ X” i n X ma s. Yes, t he hol id a z e a r e her e. T h i s i s also the beginning of the dreaded L DB game. A mong my Bur n ing Man pa ls, we fer vent ly compete to be the last player to accident a l ly hea r t he “ L it t le Dr um mer Boy” carol. The rules are simple: if ever you hear either the lyrics or music to “L DB,” you are disqualif ied. The w inner(s) is who ever la st s A F T E R Dec. 25. It’s really a challenge to avoid “LDB” whi le shopping as Muza k carols bla st t h rough t he P. A . s y stems. W i n ner (s) r eceives not h i ng but br agg i ng r ight s. It’s such f un to hear who got zapped out - and under what conditions. Here’s some hot st u f f to w a r m your cockles as Jack Frost nips at your nose.
GOLDEN GIRLS: THE CHRISTM AS EPISODES is 6th annual all drag Xmas Ex-draga-ganza with DQs Heklina ( Dorot hy), C o ok ie D ough (S oph i a), Pol lo Del Mar ( Rose), and Matthew Mar t in ( Blanche). Only 11 performances, Dec.1 - 23, Thurs. Fri. & Sat., 8pm at a new, larger venue – The Victoria Theatre in SF. Opening night is benef it for P roject O pen Ha nd, when Ferna ndo & Greg f rom r ad io 9 9.7 w i l l host. I n fo & t i x at t ra n nyshack.com. There is a contest for those who best wear those tacky holiday sweaters. Thank you for being a friend! DA NCE -A LONG NUTCR ACKER: CL A R A’S M AGICA L M YS T E RY TOU R celebr ates music from San Francisco’s “Summer of L ove” era by t he San Francisco L e s b i a n /G a y F r e e d o m B a n d . Cla ra’s back , a nd she’s da ncing i n t ie- dye when t he Nutcracker ta kes her on a psychedel ic journey through the dawning of the Age of Aquarius. The wackiest Nutcr acker on ea r t h i s a l so a play star r ing L eigh Crow (t he a r t ist for merly k now n as “E lv is Herselvis”) as the Rat K ing; Lia Metz (2010 Bijou Cabaret Contest w inner and a reg ular warbler at M a r t u n i’s) a s Cla ra; a nd F ly n n DeMarco (Thrillpeddlers’ horror
st ar) as t he Nutcracker. Play ing Sat u r d ay, D ec.10 (7pm g row n ups only gala); and Sunday, Dec. 11 (11am & 3pm) at Yerba Buena C ent er for t he A r t s , 701 M i s sion St reet. Ti x a nd i n fo: Da nc e A lon g Nut c r a c ker.or g or b ox of f ic e: (415) 978 - A RT S . D r e s s in ‘60s g roov y gear or baller ina cost ume, because you w i l l want to k ick up your heels and dance along to this sweet Suite. PROJ ECT N U N WAY is a charity fashion show where Sisters of Per petual Indulgence are paired w ith designers to develop a look fashioned from recycled mater ia ls a nd ma k i ng it a “g reen” a ffair. Nunway creator, Sister Baba G a n e s h , d e s c r i b e s Nu n w ay a s “a Fel l in i inspired d rag fash ion spectacle and hol iday tea dance to celebrate the end and the beginning of time.” It is art couture created from recycled a nd repu r posed mater ials as our way of embracing sust a inabi l it y and r e je c t i n g c on s u me r i s m . Fu nd s from this holiday fundraiser will go to T he Sister s’ genera l f und t hat suppor t s our va r ious fundraising and community awareness programs. Haute couture is happen i ng at B eatbox , 11t h St reet (near Folsom) from 3-9pm. Ticket s, ava i lable at Ticket f ly.com, (continued on page 25)
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HAPPENINGS
POP ROX
Help Is On The Way for the Holidays
By K. Cole
THE CHRISTMAS REVELS Dec 9-11 & 16-18 Scottish Rite Theater 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland californiarevels.org 510/452-8800 Mary Wilson will perform during REAF's Help Is On the Way on December 5.
By Sister Dana Van Iquity
Trip
Out! with the 2012
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“A WINNING COMBO... A FILM THAT’S OPERATICALLY EXUBERANT AND ELEGIAC.” -LOS ANGELES TIMES
“THE SOUNDTRACK ROCKS, AND THE DIRECTOR’S BITTERSWEET NOSTALGIA SHOULD WIN OVER THE MOST FLINTY VIEWER.” -THE NEW YORK TIMES
The Richmond/ Ermet AIDS Foundation is presenting their 10th anniversary star-studded AIDS benefit concert and gala, “Help Is on the Way for the Holidays,” on Monday, Dec. 5 at Marines Memorial Theatre at 609 Sutter Street. The benefit is for two outstanding Bay Area AIDS service organizations, Positive Resource Center and Sunburst Projects. The fields of entertainment include Broadway, film, TV, recording, jazz, and dance. Among the celebrities are Mary Wilson, original member of The Supremes/ recording star; Sheryl Lee Ralph, Broadway (Dreamgirls), TV (Designing Women), recording star; La Toya London, Broadway (The Color Purple/ American Idol); Tony nominee Bonnie Franklin (Applause) and TV (One Day at a Time) star; David Burnham, Broadway (Light in the Piazza, Wicked) star; Sally Struthers, TV (All in the Family, Gilmore Girls) star; Shawn Ryan, America’s Got Talent/ cabaret star; and the cast of Xanadu, New Conservatory Theater Center's production - to name just a few. “Help Is on the Way for the Holidays X” is produced by executive directors Ken Henderson and Joe Seiler of the Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation, founded in 1995 by Barbara Richmond and Peggy Ermet in memory of their sons, John Richmond and Doug Ermet, who both lost their lives to AIDS. In 1995, the mothers
decided not to get mad but get even when they launched a musical AIDS benefit to honor their sons and raise funds for AIDS service organizations. Positive Resource Center remains the only place for people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS to get comprehensive benefits counseling and employment services in San Francisco. The organization has led the service community’s response to the changes in the epidemic since its inception, and is regarded as the model program in the United States for agencies hoping to offer similar services. Sunburst Projects provides support services to families affected by HIV/ AIDS. Camp Sunburst, the nation’s first therapeutically designed summer camp for children and families, provides coping skills and support for youth as they face the challenges of growing up with HIV/AIDS. Holiday/festive attire is suggested for the gala. Performance begins at 7:30 pm with underwriter dessert and wine after-party with the cast at the Hotel Rex, 562 Sutter Street from 9:45 - 11:45 pm. General reserved seating - performance only – tickets are $40 and $60; underwriter tix are tiered from $100 to $5,000. Tix available at helpisontheway.org or (415) 273-1620. This is the perfect way to kick off the holidays!
(TENNESSEE WILLIAMS continued from page 17) ability to personify his own suffering Don’t miss this opportunity to see and give us insight into our own. His two sides of Tennessee Williams this plays are memorable because they holiday season. Marin Theatre’s The are as real today as they were when Glass Menagerie runs November 29 they were written. All human beings – December 18, and San Francisco fight for their place in the sun and Playhouse’s production Period of Adthey all suffer when circumstances justment continues until January 14. they cannot control cripple them. Ev- Williams’ plays never fail to move us ery one of us has been faced with the and give us new insights that help us conflict between our responsibility to understand ourselves. ourselves and to others. “In order to "Don't look forward to the day you stop be an artist, you have to be incredibly selfish,” observed Minadakis. “Tom suffering, because when it comes you'll know (like Williams) was a writer and in you're dead." our production, we are highlighting -Tennessee Williams his sense of desperation.”
Kate Bush 50 Words for Snow Yes, Kate Bush has returned after over seven years with an amazing ground-breaking album. I rate it up there with Blue from Joni Mitchell for deep thoughts and sonic retrospection. Best Cut: “Snowf lake” Location: On the couch staring at a glistening Christmas tree.
Lady Gaga A Very Gaga Holiday With only four cuts, this ‘surprise release’ including two cuts from the recently-aired Thanksgiving special, Lady Gaga shows of f her New York state of mind and jazz vocal chops. Consider this release an early holiday gift and it tastes just like that f irst candy cane of the season. Best Cut: "White Christmas" (with new verse) Location: Ice skating in Union Square.
SF Gay Men’s Chorus Home for the Holidays Okay, okay, so this album is already over SIX YEARS OLD! And that’s the reason for this review. Get on it boys! We need a new holiday collection from you and it’s already too late for this holiday season. This one will tide us over just one more year, so start those bake sales and get thee into the Castro Theater for a new 2012 release! Best Cut: “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” Location: Harvey’s.
(SHAME continued from page 19) bed- cr unch i ng g usto, but w it hout a n emot iona l connect ion to the characters, it is hard to care about Brandon’s (or Sissy’s) situation. Viewers feel nothing, except maybe boredom.
A FILM BY JEAN-CLAUDE SCHLIM Special Q&A with star Udo Kier at both screenings opening night!
w w w. h o u s e o f b oys m ov i e .c o m
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To his credit, McQueen masterful ly uses space - and ref lect ive glass, in particular - to reveal his characters. His framing provides a deliberately detached perspect ive to t he act ion. Even t he sex scenes are clinical. Shame is hardly sexy despite the copious nudity. This is certainly the point of the f ilm.
Shame is certainly a glossy, good look ing f ilm, but it is a lso complet e l y v a c uou s . Fa s sb ender i s fascinating to watch, and seduct ive t o a deg r ee, but h i s c om mitted, full-bodied per formance never quite excites. Mu l l igan is miscast in her role. Babyish when she should be delicate, the actress doesn’t have t he t rag ic despa i r her character needs to generate sympathy. U l t i m a t e l y, S h a m e i s n o t d i s graceful, but given its ambitions, it shou ld have been bet ter, a nd more provocative.
Joe McElder ry Classic Christmas X-Factor winner and another in a line of great gay male tenors who look hot in sweaters, this CD is a little f luf fy but do we really care? I think this CD might well warm up a few boys better than a hot toddy. Best Cut: “Mar y’s Boy Child” Location: Shopping in Ingenious on Castro.
HOT TICKETS of seasonal favorites, LGCSF is host ing a Chi ldren's Toy Dr ive in conjunction with this concert. C ome suppor t t he chor u s a nd a wor t hwh i le cause! December 18th, 4pm and December 19th, 7:30pm at Martuni’s, 4 Valencia St. at Market St., SF. (415) 2410205.
The Golden Girls Christmas Episodes will run Dec. 1 - 23 at the Victoria.
The Golden Girls ~ The Ch r ist m a s Episodes! - L i ke the swallows returning to Capistrano, the annual appearance of San Francisco’s four top drag luminaries in The Golden Girls: The Christmas Episodes 2011 is an event to both revel and gleef u l ly a nt ic ipat e a s t he w ay to ring in the Holiday Season with a ba ngle. T he for mu la is qu ite straightforward. Take 4 talented d r ag per for mer s , c a st t hem i n two classic Xmas episodes of the ground-breaking and uproarious T V show: T he Golden G irls, and hilar it y is bound to ensue. The fou r g i rl s pl ay i n g t he c h a r a cters the entire world has come to know and love are Heklina ( Dorot hy), Cook ie Dough (S oph ia), Matt hew Mar t in ( Blanche) and Pollo Del Mar (Rose). Playing for limited engagement of 11 perform a nc e s on l y ! T he s how pl ay s Dec. 1 – 23, 2011 - Thurs. Fri. & Sat. at 8:00pm. We are mov ing to a larger venue this year – The Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th St. (btwn. Mission & Capp Sts.) SF. Tickets are $25 and are available at ticketf ly.com/venue/2161.
to teaching kids and their families how to create one-of-a-kind h a nd -m a de g i f t s a nd it em s to decorate t hei r homes t hat w i l l br i ght en t he hol id ay s w it hout break ing the bank! Learn how to rol l your ow n beeswa x ca nd les , m a ke h a nd m a de scented g i f t s oaps , a nd bu i ld a c a nd y house a nd more! 10a m – 2pm, Saturday, December 3. A special family holiday show w ill follow at 2pm in the Randall Museum Theatre. A ll ages; children must b e a c c ompa n ie d by a n a du lt . Cr a f t pr ic es & a c t iv it ies v a r y depending on materials; call for details 415.554.9600 or randallmuseum.org.
Paula Poundstone - The Palace of Fine Arts Theatre in San Fra ncisco is proud to welcome b a c k c ome d i a n Pau l a Pou nd stone for the Second Annual Ha Ha Ho Ho Holiday Show Saturday, December 17th. It’s impossible to attend a Paula Poundstone performance w ithout mar veling at her ability to interact spontaneously with audience members S i n g- A lo n g Me s s i a h - S i n g in conversat ions bound to gar- your favor ite chor uses a nd t he ner riotous laughter. Armed with beaut i f u l solos. Shop for a variet y of delicious and delightful handmade items at the Holiday Fa i r i n t he S oc i a l H a l l dow nsta irs. A l l proceeds benef it t he Sa n Fra ncisco Cit y Chor us. ( Fr e e a d m i s s ion t o t he Fa i r). T he SF C C Me s s i a h C h a mb er Orchestra and Larr y Mar ietta, Conductor, Su nday, December 4th 3 pm. Lakeside Presbyterian Chu rch 201 Euc a ly pt u s D r ive at 19th Ave. SF. $10 at the door. Info: sfcitychorus.org, (415) 968 9523. Paula Poundstone will appear at the Palace of the Fine Arts on December 17.
not h i n g but a st o ol , a m ic r o phone and a can of Diet Pepsi, Pau la’s abi l it y to create humor on the spot has become the stuf f of legend. L itt le wonder people l e av e P a u l a’s s ho w s d eb a t i n g whether the random people she talked to were “plants” – which, of cou r se t he y never a r e, a nd compl a i n i ng t h at t hei r cheek s L G C S F A S h a me le s s S how hur t from laughter. Show t i me: of Holiday Shite – December 8pm. Tickets: $35 in advance / f inds the chorus drowning their $40 day of show. Call: 800 -745hol id ay sor row s a nd t r y i ng to 3000 or visit: ticketmaster.com. make a buck at Martuni’s piano ba r. T h i s s e a s on a l s oi r é e, i n - H o l i d a y C r a f t s D a y - G e t cludes carols, chor us numbers, c r a f t y a n d M A K E p r e s e n t s a s s or t ed s olo s a nd a f a nt a st ic a nd decorat ions for t he w i nter sing-a-long f inale. In addition to holidays this year! The Randall si ng i ng t hrough t he song book Museum is devoting a whole day
33rd G reat Dickens Ch r istm a s Fa i r - T he ent ic i ng a ro m a s of r o a s t e d c he s t nut s a nd hearty holiday foods f ill the air, along with cries of street vendors hawking their wares and lamp-lit shops f illed to overf lowing with aut hent ic Chr ist mas t reasures. T he 2011 Fa i r h a s a n a l l new L ew is Carol ing show feat ur ing ra mbunct ious raconteurs Mark L ew i s a nd Dav id S pr i nghor n , cook ing demonstrat ions in The D ickens Fa m i ly Pa rlou r, ma ny new booths & vendors, a newly spacious Fat her Chr ist mas and Punch & Judy stage, a children’s painting garden, newly expanded children's age range (now prices i nclude 12-yea r old s). You ca n now a lso pr i nt t icket s at home t o avo id w i l l - c a l l l i ne s ! S av e
$3 per Adult (reg. $25) through December 5, a nd $2 per Ch i ld age 5-12 (reg $12) anytime, with a d v a nc e pr i nt-at-home t ic ket s ava i lable on l ine at d ickensfa ir. com; Pickwick Season Pass $60; Children under age f ive are free; St udent s/s en ior s/m i l it a r y a r e $21 at the Door ( ID req’d); Military families are FREE opening weekend. Parking at Cow Palace $10 (free shuttle from Glen Park BA RT st at ion); S pec i a l g roup rates for 15 or more, ca l l 8 0 0 510 -1558.
F lower Power Buf fet. Saturday, Dec. 10 at 7pm, $50 or Sunday, Dec. 11 at 11a m a nd 3pm $25 for adults, $16 for children and seniors. Our shows sell out! Reserve your tickets early! You can buy tickets on sf lg f b.townalive. com or by calling the Yerba Buena Center for the A rts Box Off ice d irect ly at 415/978 -A RTS (2787). 701 Mission St. SF. An Evening with Amy Sedaris - T he m ight y, m ight y Rox ie T heater cou ld not be more excited to welcome t he ir repressible A my S ed a r i s to Si x teent h St. on Dec. 4! Ms. Sedar is w il l be on hand to d iscuss her 2010 book Simple Times: Crafts for Poor P e o pl e. She’ l l pa r t ic ipat e i n a Q& A session with the audience, sign books & posters, make some c r a f t s , a nd g ener a l l y c onduc t herself in as charming a manner as you might expect. Tickets are $10 0, wh ich i ncludes a n a fterreception where there w ill be a chance to meet the acerbic Ms. Sedar is. To celebrate t he Roxie’s continued development as a 501c3 non-prof it on the cutting
The Gay & Lesbian Freedom Band present the Dance-Along Nutcracker on Dec. 10 and 11 at the Yerba Buena Center.
D a n c e - A lo n g Nut c r a c ke r Get w ith it, man! Pull out your tie-dye threads, your peace med a l l ion a nd you r rose - colored aviator glasses as the San Franc i s c o L e s b i a n /G a y F r e e d o m Band takes you on a far out trip! Clara’s back and she’s dancing in day-glo when the Nutcracker takes her on a psychedelic journey through the dawning of the Age of Aquarius. At the DanceA long Nutcracker, we play t he music and you do t he dancing. St a r s L eigh Crow ( R at K i ng), L i a Met z (C l a r a F lower c h i ld ) and Flynn DeMarco (Sgt. Lemon-Pepper Nutcracker). Groov y G a l a ! a dd s a 6 0 's r o c k pa r t y, hors d'oeuvres + no host bar to t he reg ular show. Groov y Ga la + Hol iday Recept ion. Feat ures a ’ 6 0 s r o c k i n g DJ pa r t y w it h
Photo of The Week
ruits f m o r “F s” to nut
Amy Sedaris will appear at the Roxie Theater on December 4 to discuss her new book Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People. The event will benefit The Roxie.
edge of independent f ilm exhibition, repertory rediscoveries and com mu n it y i nvolvement , t here will be plenty of treats and libat ions on hand for attendees. At The Roxie Theater 3117 16th St. SF. For t ickets & Info call 415 431-3611.
CASTRO
FARMERS’ MARKET UPCOMING EVENTS:
Dec 7 & 14: Enter to win a Holiday gift pack. Awarded on Dec 21. Dec 21: Pictures with Santa, 5-7pm Dec 21: SEASON END. Thank you for your support of local farmers. We’ll return in March. See you then!
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WEDNESDAYS
Photographer: Phyllis Costa Phyllis Lyon, beloved community activist, celebrated her 87th birthday in style at the LGBT Community Center on November 17 with a fundraiser benef iting the Lyon-Martin Health Services (LMHS) clinic. The clinic was almost forced to close its doors at the beginning of 2011 due to more than a million dollar debt, but thanks to a community outpouring of donations, $350,000 were raised in the f irst three months of the year. September 1st marked the date the clinic was able to take new patients again. The clinic is named after Phyllis Lyon and her late partner, Del Martin, feminists and well-known LGBTQ civil rights activists.
4PM - 8PM
OPEN THRU DEC. 21
NOE ST. BETWEEN MARKET ST. & BEAVER ST. 1.800.949.FARM
pcfma.com/castro
BAY T IM ES DECEM BER 1, 2011 21
HOLIDAY
CALENDAR
compiled by Christine Dumke
The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus presents Joyous, Jolly, Jingles at the Masonic Auditorium on December 8.
1 Thursday
Historic Libations - Dance your cares away at Historic Libations - the California Historical Society’s annual holiday benefit party. Enjoy historic cocktails including the Boothby Cocktail, Boothby Whiskey Punch, Martinez cocktail, Gibson cocktail, and Pisco Punch. Learn about the history of mixed drinks, visit the “Ask a Mixologist” booth, savor freshly shucked Drakes Bay oysters, and indulge in concoctions crafted by volunteer bartenders from The Boothby Center, the home of cocktail education and the Barbary Coast Conservancy of the American Cocktail. Live entertainment by Gaucho Gypsy Jazz at 7:30pm. 6—9pm at The California Historical Society Museum 678 Mission Street, SF $50 (open bar cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment included). Advance ticket purchase is encouraged: Online tickets at historiclibations.eventbrite.com. By phone 415.357.1848 x215 or x229. Great Books Discussion Group This discussion is sponsored by the Great Books Council of San Francisco, a nonprofit educational organization whose mission is to provide the opportunity for all people to discover, discuss, and learn from outstanding works of writing, and by the General Collections Department of the San Francisco Public Library. Every month we will read and discuss a famous short story, essay or speech from the book, Introduction to Great Books – First Series. For more information, please go to greatbooks-sf.com. The group meets the first Thursday of each month. For registration: email clifford.louie@sbcglobal.net or call Jim Hall at (415) 387-2125. Main Library, Fourth Floor Conference Room, 5:30-7:30PM. 100 Larkin Street (at Grove). World AIDS Day and Invisible Man at Grace Cathedral – This year marks the 30th anniversary of the beginning of the AIDS epidemic in the United States. In recognition of this milestone and in observance of World AIDS Day, Grace Cathedral will install Daniel Goldstein’s dramatic and provocative mobile sculpture, “Invisible Man” in the cathedral nave. The sculpture is comprised of 864 hypodermic syringes each tipped with a red crystal; all pointing to the center of what Goldstein calls a negative space in the outline of a human being. The sculpture was
commissioned fore the 2010 International Conference on HIV/ AIDS held in Vienna, Austria. The installation is organized in cooperation with Visual Aid, San Francisco. a special service will be held in the Cathedral’s Chapel of Grace at 12:10pm. The “Invisible Man” Installation runs November 16 – December 5. (7am – 6pm daily). Grace Episcopal Cathedral is at California and Jones Streets, SF.
Prohibition Ball plus Same Sex Any Swing Goes Championships. 7-8pm basic lesson 8pm-12am midnight band with dance and costume contests during band breaks. All Ages. $30 with lesson. $25 just dance no lesson. Free if under 15 years old with paid adult; 10% off students, military and California Deco Society members by preregistration at SFSwingFest.com. Hotel Whitcomb 1231 Market, SF.
WGirls Winter Wonderland Happy Hour Benefiting Foster a Dream WGIRLS Bay Area was started in February 2010. Our chapter serves underprivileged women and children in the San Francisco Bay Area and in times of international crisis around the world. We are young, professional women whom desire to make a difference and positively impact those less fortunate. While organiz-
Sexy, Sultry, Spicy Night at Country Nights - Welcome to Country Nights women’s partner dancing two-step, waltz, swing, latin, & line dancing! Dress up in whatever makes you feel sultry or sexy! Lake Merritt Dance Center - a fully disabled accessible venue at 200 Grand Avenue, Oakland. Instruction by Monica Vasquez. 7:30-8:15pm. Salsa, 8:15 - 8:45pm. Merengue, 8:45-11:00pm. Non-stop dancing! $10-$20 (sliding scale). Includes lesson & light refreshments, walk in, dance out! No experience or partner necessary! ALL ages welcome! Excellent teachers, warm and inviting atmosphere, smoke, scent, and alcohol FREE! Leather soled shoes suggested. Work exchange or volunteers welcome. Info:(510) 534-6226 or CountryNightsDance.com.
Cris Williamson will perform at Freight & Salvage in Berkeley on Dec. 3.
ing philanthropic events and fundraisers we socialize and network with like-minded women. from 6:009:00 PM at Per Diem 43 Sutter St SF. Wgirls.com.
2 Friday
Prohibition Ball - Welcome all flappers, mobsters, and/or vintage recreationists in costume contest. Celebrate the 78th Repeal of Prohibition anniversary with
2 2 BAY TIMES DECEMB E R 1 , 2 0 1 1
Cut The Crap! with SemiMotivational Guru, Clam Lynch Do you want to change your life, but you don’t know where to begin? Are you ready to realize your own “special specialness?” Is it time to set achievable goals (like getting out of bed)? Clam is here and ready to lead you on this important journey. Clam Lynch will help you make enormous strides in personal growth and selfdiscovery without any of the annoying pain and hard work. Whether you’ve been sleeping under a bridge downtown or in the back seat of your Mercedes S350, Clam understands your situation, and he’s an authority on relieving the burden of excess cash overflow. Or underflow! Or whatever! 10:30pm at The Dark Room 2263 Mission St. SF $12 advance/$15 at the door. 415-4017987 or darkroomsf.com.
3 Saturday
Cris Williamson Holiday Concert - Freight & Salvage is proud to present Cris Williamson with special guests on Saturday, December 3 at 8pm (doors at 7pm). Tickets at ticketweb.com or call (510) 644 2020.
Freight & Salvage is located at 2020 Addison Street in Berkeley. Rainbow Women’s Chorus Holiday Quilt – A Patchwork of Seasonal Songs on Saturday 8pm and Sunday 3pm at Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 1550 Meridian Ave San Jose. Tickets are $17 discounts for seniors, students and groups at rainbowwomen.org or 408-6039367.
4 Sunday
Kentucky Fried Woman’s Celebrity Memorial Show - 2011 has seen the passing of some amazing celebrities and social justice activists! This will be a sweet, funny and uplifting show with an amazing cast featuring some of the best queer drag, burlesque and cabaret performers the San Francisco Bay Area has to offer! Doors at 7pm; performances at 7:30; stay after the show to dance to the old school tunes of Dandy Dixon! At Bench and Bar - 510 17th St, Oakland (21+) $10. 25 Years Later … Deaf Community AIDS Memorial - 25th annual memorial celebration in honor of deaf people who have died of AIDS. Darol Nance will talk about the Deaf AIDS Center and Frank Lester will share archives of the past 25 Years. There will be time for comments from the deaf community to keep the memories alive. Catering and refreshments provided by Betty Ann Prinz and Patty O’Sullivan. ASL-tovoice interpreting will be provided. Main Library, Lower Level, Latino/ Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 1-3 p.m. 100 Larkin Street (at Grove). Circus Bella Family Holiday Show - The most musical clowns in town join our talented musicians for an unforgettable family concert. Juggling, acrobatics, and feats of derring-do are woven into an entertaining program that will feature a discussion on creating musical moods through tempo, dynamics, articulation, and instrumentation. 12:00pm College of San Mateo Theater, 1700 W. Hillsdale Blvd. (Bldg. 3) San Mateo and 3:00pm Bayview Opera House, 4705 3rd St. SF. Admission is free, but tickets are required for non-members! Reserve online at sfchamberorchestra.org or by phone at 415-692-5258. Tickets may also be given at the concert door, subject to availability. Doors open 30 minutes before concert
time. Concerts are just under one hour.
5 Monday
World Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony and Party - The World Tree of Hope is a holiday tree in the Rotunda of San Francisco City Hall decorated with thousands of white origami cranes, each containing written notes of hope & peace from children and individuals from around the world. The tree is a gift from members of the LGBT and Japanese American communities to the world - given to inspire hope and promote peace, love and humanitarianism. Academy Award Winner Rita Moreno, Emmy Award Winner Peter Coyote, Grammy winning San Francisco Boys Chorus, Emcee Donna Sachet, The Consul General of Japan will present a peace crane to the City, Live artist Daryoush, The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and many more! FREE: Wine, Cocktails, Hors d’ oeuvres & Sweets. 5:308pm. San Francisco City Hall Rotunda, 1 Dr.Carlton Goodlett Place (Polk & Grove Sts.) SF. Qcomedy Showcase - Features the hilarious SF comedians Paul Pratt, Lisa Geduldig, Jill Bourque, Carrie Avritt, Kibibi Dillon and Veronica Porras. And be sure to stay for the legendary Martuni’s piano bar with Joe Wicht at no additional charge. San Francisco’s favorite spot for queer and queer friendly comedy, now at the fabulous Martunis 4 Valencia St @ Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 COST: $5-15 Sliding Scale, NOTAFLOF Wherever There’s a Fight…for Women’s Rights & Civil Rights 2011 has been the centennial of women’s suffrage in California, but women have been tenaciously fighting for their rights long before and after that momentous victory for voting rights. Authors Elaine Elinson & Stan Yogi will explore how the suffrage campaign fits into the broader movement for civil liberties in California. They will share stories and historic photographs from their book which illuminate the lives of California’s unsung heroines – from Charlotte Brown who fought race segregation on San Francisco streetcars a hundred years before Rosa Parks, to suffragist Selina Solomons who organized shop girls to win the right to vote in 1911, to
within their imaginations...worlds capable of creating organisms of fictional narratives and emotional truth, born out of observation and memory. Gallery 60SIX will celebrate the opening of the exhibit from 6 pm - 8:30 pm. 66 Elgin Park SF. 415-621-8377.
10 Saturday
A Very Ducal Holiday Craft Faire - Royal Daddy 2011 Ryan Winslow & Royal Daddy’s boy 2011 don lynne, in conjunction with the Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco present: A Very Ducal Holiday Craft 2-5pm at the Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy, Multipurpose Room, 4235 19th St SF. This oldfashioned craft fair raises money for the Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy and features a Blanket/ Coat Drive for SF Night Ministries and collects nonperishable food for St. Aidan’s Food Pantry. Includes photo opportunities with Santa & Mrs. Claus. To keep it lively, popular Bay Area drag queens provide holiday-themed performances every 30 minutes. Info: SFDucal.org. Circus Bella Family Holiday Show will do two shows on Dec. 4.
Rosie the Riveters who built the ships that helped ensure an Allied victory in World War II – all the way up to today when women are on the front lines of fighting for workplace equity, reproductive rights and marriage equality. Sunset Branch Library, 7pm 1305 8th Avenue (at Irving). Related Exhibit: Celebration of Woman Suffrage, through Dec 31, 2011 Main Library, Third Floor Exhibit Space100 Larkin Street (at Grove).
gram of harp music from around the World. Raise your spirits with songs that celebrate Christmas, Hannukah and the Solstice, along with pieces from many different countries sung in different languages. Raise your voices with the harpists to help get you in the Spirit. Main Library, Lower Level, Koret Auditorium, 6pm 100 Larkin Street (at Grove).
7 Wednesday
SF Secret Lovers - Slow jams to make out to. Soul, oldies and R&B dance party. Come celebrate mr. Katie Duck’s return to Secret Lovers! come hear tales of Swiss babes, sites, and dance parties while dancing to her excellent tunes. Tell a friend. Shine yer shoes. Fix yer hair. Or come as you are! At the Lexington 3464 19th St. SF; 8pm.
8 Thursday
Qcomedy Showcase - See Paul Pratt and friends at Martuni’s on Dec. 5.
It’s a Wonderful Gay Life: a Cabaret Benefiting Spectrum LGBT Center - Stop by to gather in community; sing a tune and remember how special the holidays and Spectrum are. Featuring: Wayne Fettig on piano, Phillip Percy Williams, jazz vocalist and former star of Beach Blanket Babylon, open mic: come sing with (and for) us! Holiday cheer and light appetizers served. Suggested donation $20 and up. All proceeds go toward Spectrum’s Year-End Challenge Goal = $30,000. 5:30-7:30 PM Host: Katharine Holland’s House 104 Belvedere Drive Mill Valley.
6 Tuesday
Songs & Harps to Celebrate the Holiday Season - Welcome the holidays with members of the Bay Area Youth Harp Ensemble and Triskela Celtic Harp Trio, in a pro-
Joyous, Jolly, Jingles - San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus is Home for the Holidays with Joyous, Jolly, Jingles Triumphant Return to Masonic Auditorium For Holiday Extravaganza; 22nd Annual Home For The Holidays at Castro Theatre; special guest, Melody Moore. Tickets start at $10 and are available on-line at sfgmc.org, by phone at (415) 865-2787 and in person at the Chorus’ box office at the LGBT Community Center. Masonic Center 1111 California St. SF.
9 Friday
The Hella Gay Comedy Show Hometown comedian Charlie Ballard, who’s been seen on LOGO, Comedy Central and NBC’s America’s Got Talent, brings his noholds-barred, avant-garde variety show to Oakland. Gay, straight, bi, lesbian and transgendered comics and performers will gather to entertain with a wide variety of talents, including stand-up, improv and sketch comedy; monologues; music and much more. Ballard designed this monthly show to break boundaries and change the way audiences think about the word “gay.” La Estrellita Café 446 E.12th St. Oakland, (510) 891-0972 Doors open @ 8:00pm, Show starts @ 9:00pm 21+ 10$ cover. Leigh Barbier’s “Biospheres” Barbier creates an environment in which living organisms exist. An environment capable of supporting life, the way humans create worlds
Art RockX X-Mas!! - The hottest Art Party Ever is bringing you an exclusive party in a Hollywood setting. Ryan Martinez the hip hop painter (just ask Deadmus 5); Michael Marx the burning man; Jewelry sculpture Keegan Roberson whose art is spiritually sensual; John Rogers militia, love, and parallel universe art; a fashion show by EliMar Designs featuring the hottest hand painted fashions; DJ Richard Habib, DJ Lamont Young, and special guest DJ. So put on your finest cocktail attire and bring your spirited self to this can’t miss event. $10 8-11pm at Arttitud, 111 Potrero Ave SF.
11 Sunday
Golden Gate Men’s Chorus Repeat the Sounding Joy - We promise to make spirits bright with great choral music spanning five centuries from around the globe: Russian choral masterpieces, gems from the great English Renaissance, Gaelic carols, works by Mendelssohn, Saint-Saëns, and even a Beach Boys arrangement of Auld Lang Syne are just a few of the songs which will fill you with delight. Sunday, Dec 11th at 2:00 PM, and Tuesday, Dec 13th at 8:00 PM at St. Matthew’s Lutheran, SF. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased: at ggmc.org. Remaining tickets will be available at the door. Student halfprice discount tickets are available at the door with valid ID. St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church is located at 3281 16th St at Dolores.
12 Monday
Women of Jazz Celebrate the Holidays - Urban Music presents four amazing performances led by some of the Bay Area’s leading female bandleaders to celebrate the holidays as only women of soul and spirit can do! Performances will include: the Roberta Donnay Jass Trio, featuring the women of jass (original spelling) of the 1920’s and ‘30s! Also featured that same evening is the incredible Michelle Jacques and her ensemble and CHELLE! with Friends commemorating the spirit of New Orleans. At Yoshi’s SF 1330 Fillmore St. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $12 advance and $16 at door; Yoshis. com or 415-655-5600.
14 Wednesday
Holidays: Christmas, Chanukah, and Other Festive Celebrations - A Docent Lecture & Slide Show. This lecture and slideshow focuses on beautiful and intriguing paintings that depict giving, receiving, feasting, and the enjoyment of holidays and other festivities. Holiday treats will be available! Glen Park Branch Library, 6:30-7:30pm. 2825 Diamond Street (near Bosworth). Winter Celebration with the Bernal Jazz Quintet - Join us for neighborhood holiday festivities and enjoy a special holiday concert by The Bernal Jazz Quintet . There will be crafts for children and refreshments. Bernal Heights Branch Library, 6:30pm. 500 Cortland Avenue (at Moultrie).
More News, Stories, and Arts & Entertainment online La Estrellita Cafe in Oakland presents the Hella Gay Comedy Show on Dec. 9.
@sfbaytimes.com
BAY T IM ES DEC EM BER 1, 2011 23
ONGOING EVENTS - NEW & UPDATED Thursdays
week at the Unitarian Church at 1187 Franklin at Geary, SF. 7-9 pm.
The East Bay Butch Group - Meets the 1st Thursday of every month in Berkeley, 7-9pm, to discuss and explore butch identity, to honor and preserve butch culture, and to share our common experiences. There’s a topic for each meeting that acts as a starting point or catalyst for our conversation. Meet at the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists (1924 Cedar Street (at Bonita), Berkeley, CA) at 7 pm. The entrance to meeting space is on Bonita - come in through the gate and go to the second floor. Unfortunately, there is no elevator.
Sundance Saloon Thursdays - The fun is on THURSDAYS! Line-dancing and two-steppin twice a week, every Sunday and Thursday for the queer communities! Every Thursday 6:3010:30 pm $5 at 550 Barneveld Ave, SF.
Generations: A ‘20s to ‘80s Salon A group of men who enjoy each other’s company, discuss ideas about life, literature, art and culture, and share their insights and experiences with one another. Generations takes place the 3rd Thursday of each month, 7-9pm at The Center, 1800 Market at Octavia, Room Q11, SF. Positive Force Adventure Group Program by and for HIV positive bi-, gay and transgender men. Its Urban Adventures program meets once a month to keep you connected with the poz community. See http://stopaids. org/programs/positive-force for more details..
Fridays
Last Word Poetry Series - On the 2nd Friday of the month at Nefeli Café, join hosts Dale Jensen, Tim Donnelly and Diana Q at 1854 Euclid @ Hearst, Berkeley. 7-9pm. Info: 510-841-6374. Lavender Seniors Lunch Bunch Lavender Seniors of the East Bay holds a catered lunch every 3rd Friday of the month featuring presentations on topics pertinent to LGBT seniors. FREE. 12:30-2:30pm at North Oakland Senior Center, 5714 Martin Luther King Jr. Way at 58th St, Oakland. Info: 510-6679655.
Blur - Transgender & Gender-Variant Support Group Every Thursday 6:30p-7:30p Free food! Come and chat with other trans & gv people, facilitated by trans counselors. For 18-25 y.o. youth. At Dimensions Clinic, 3850 17th St. SF. www.dimensionsclinic.org. SNAP Talk! - A free group every Thursday where young gay and bi men who are new to San Francisco can talk about sex, jobs, boyfriends, roommates, STDs, and anything else about getting settled in S.F. SNAP Talk! is a drop-in group specifically for gay and bi men in their 20s and 30s who are new to San Francisco. Come to get support, some to talk, come to just meet people. The group is facilitated by David Gonzalez of SNAP!, and Ryan Horvath, a counselor from the REACH Program of the UCSF AIDS Health Project. Show up at The LGBT Center (1800 Market at Octavia, SF) and look for the sign for the SNAP Talk! group, or, call 415-865-5614 to learn more. L.O.C. (lesbians of color) - A peersupport group for women 21 years of age and older. L.O.C meets every Thursday at Pacific Center 7p-8:30p. Join them to carry on the tradition of providing a positive space for women of color to engage in pertinent lively discussions, exchange support and information, and to have fun and celebrate each other! Info: contact Randy Page, L.O.C. primary facilitator, at rap1on1@sbcglobal.net, or leave a message for her at (510) 595-8294. Out of respect for people with environmental illnesses, please do not wear fragrance or scented products of any kind at L.O.C. See you there! One Struggle, One Fight General Meeting - One Struggle, One Fight is an anti-oppression direct action group with two missions: Organize peaceful escalation of the LGBTQ movement by participating in and supporting direct action and civil disobedience. And to raise awareness of where our struggles intersect within the LGBTQ community and other oppressed groups. http://onestruggleonefight.com. Every
Writing Group for Senior Women - All women are invited to join an ongoing writers group presented by New Leaf Outreach to Elders for self-expression, creativity, supportive feedback and great company. Drop-ins welcome. The group meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday, 11am-1pm at the LGBT Center, 1800 Market St., Rm 305, SF. Info: newleafservices.org or ligaletto@ earthlink.net.
Sunday’s A Drag - Harry Denton’s Starlight Room hosts a weekly brunch featuring San Francisco’s finest drag performers and hosts Donna Sachet and Harry Denton. Two shows every Sunday, 12p and 2:30p. $30 for brunch and show at Sir Francis Drake Hotel, 450 Powell St., SF. Info/res: 395-8595.
Faerie Coffee East Bay - Every Saturday from 12 PM - 2:30 PM. Casa Vesperus hosts East Bay Faerie Coffee, a drop in community for fae in the East Bay and beyond! Just getting into town and wanna meet more Fae kin? Come by to meet and greet! Where We Meet: Revolution Café, 1612 Seventh Street, Oakland, CA, 94607. Faerie Coffee - Radical Faeries get together for a nice brunch and delightful conversation. Around noon every Saturday and Sunday at the Celtic Coffee Company, 142 McAllister btw Leavenworth and Hyde. Info: www. radfae.org.
The Exiles - Workshops and events for women interested in S&M between women. Meets the 3rd Friday of every month at the Women’s Building Auditorium, 3543 18th St., SF. Donation requested. 8-10pm. Latecomers are only admitted at the break, around 9pm. Info: 835-4739.
Same-Sex Ballroom Dance - 4:305:30pm mixed level Salsa. 5:30p-6:30p beginning American Rumba. At Cheryl Burke Dance, 1830 17th St. @ De Haro, SF. $15 per person drop-in, cheaper when you buy in bulk! Instructor: Emily Coles, www.emilycolesdance.com. These classes are geared toward the LGBTQ community. No partner or experience needed! A variety of ongoing classes. 415-3058242 balboabattle.com.
Shake: America’s LGBTQ Talk Show - a live weekly call in show about the LGBTQ community. 9-11pm on Green 960 AM (The Quake) This used to be known as Queer Channel Radio. Info and podcasts at www.queerchannelradio.com.
Third Thursday Open Mic - 3rd Thursday of the Month. Women’s Open Mic. Call Janet Rachel 510654-4088. Email Janet at janetrac@ berkeley.edu to sign up in advance for open mic. Doors 7pm, Show 7:30 pm. September - June. Out In The Bay and This Way Out Weekly program of LGBTQ issues, includes a weekly AIDS update. Every Thursday, 7:30p on KALW, 91.7. Followed by This Way Out, the international lesbian and gay newsmagazine. Info: www.kalw.org.
strippers and good tippers(hopefully) At The Deco Lounge, 510 Larkin St., SF. Every Sunday, sign ups at 9p, showtime at 10p. No cover. Info: decosf. com.
WTF? - WTF is open to all women & transfolks, Genderqueer folk, femmes, and other people who have had gender bias, homophobia, or transphobia keep them away from the wrenches! The Bike Kitchen is a do-it-yourself bicycle resource run by volunteers where you can get help to fix your bike, use tools, find used parts, or build up a bike from scratch! 6-9pm at the Bike Kitchen’s new home at 650H Florida St, SF. Now on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month. www.bikekitchen.org.
Transgender Support Group - For anyone who is transgendered, transsexual, or has gender issues. Beginners welcome. Fridays from 8-9:30pm Pacific Center, Berkeley. Info: 510-5488283. Same Sex Ballroom Dance - 8 9.30pm Ballroom Dance Variety (No partner/experience needed). Varying monthly with different Ballroom & Social dance each month. Enter through Live Art Gallery, 151 Potrero Ave. at 15th St. SF, CA 94104.
Body and Soul. 9 a.m. to Lunch (lunch provided) BCA – 2800 Third Street @24th, SF, CA 94107. For more information contact Mark Matthews at (415) 615-9945, ext. 115.
Saturday Dance & Weekly Classes Dance is 1st & 3rd Saturday at ODC 351 Shotwell Street in the Mission between 17th/18th and Folsom/South Van Ness. Jam Dance (bi-weekly) & Series Class (weekly). Hayes Valley Follies - Marlena’s hosts a weekly revue of the most titillating Bay Area talent featuring drag, singers, syncers, dancers, impersonators and more. 10p at 488 Hayes St., SF. Info: marlenasbarsf.com or 864- 6672.
LGBTQ Self Protection classes for the LGBTQ community - Gain survival skills, security, confidence and peace of mind in a supportive learning environment for people of all sexual orientations, genders, ethnicities, and nationalities. Ju Trap Boxing is an effective blend of Small Circle Jujitsu, boxing, Contemporary Jeet Kune Do, and Filipino martial arts. Rapid Assault Tactics is a no nonsense approach to street survival. Every 4th Friday from 6:30pm - 7:30pm UMAA Defensive Tactics Training Academy 4348 Third St., SF, (415) 671-2055, umaacademy. info/content/lgbt-self-protection.
Pledge: Fraternal Fridays at LOOKOUT - The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBT and questioning young people. With this event, Pledge continues to encourage the spirit of camaraderie with which the Castro has long been associated, while bringing attention to important issues challenging the LBGT community. Funds will be raised through a raffle, offering bottomless draft “Kegger Cups,” and Pledge paddle photo ops. Pledge parties are held on the 3rd Friday of each month at LOOKOUT. 9pm to 2am. LOOKOUT, 3600 16th Street, SF. Info: lookout. com.
Saturdays
The Audre and Langston Salon - First Saturday Health Party. A neighborhood health party that’s good for the Mind,
2 4 BAY TIMES DECEMB E R 1 , 2 0 1 1
Bay Area Young Positives drop-in group - Drop-in support group for young HIV positive people. 701 Oak St., SF, 7p – 9p. Info baypositives.org, (415) 487-1616. Ten Percent, LGBT-TV for Northern California - Mondays – Fridays, 11:30am & 10:30pm and Saturdays & Sundays at 10:30pm on Comcast Hometown Station 104. Join David Perry for in depth discussions with interesting people doing interesting things of interest to your community. www.comcasthometown.com.
er than talk about solutions and answers to problems, the idea is to expand on the days topic by analyzing it and breaking it up into other questions. The discussions typically focus on the hidden/unspoken assumptions, generalities and concepts that we as gay men make, and the differences that our various points of reference imply. Every Saturday 10.30am- 12pm at Sweet Inspirations, 2239 Market St. between Sanchez and Noe.
Sundays
Bad Movie Night - Every Sunday, come on out to The Dark Room in the Mission to see a crummy movie, scarf down popcorn, and listen to the hilarious ravings of special rotating hosts chosen from the brilliant comedic flock of freaks circling our fair city. $5, 8p at The Dark Room Theatre, 2263 Mission St., SF. Info: darkroomsf.com. Jock Sundays @ Lookout - A weekly Sunday afternoon/ early evening, highenergy jump fueled by a rotating cast of superstar DJs, including: Stefanie Phillips, Luke Fry, Pornstar, Joseph Lee and Pam Hubbuck. Packed every Sunday with hot, sweaty, jocular boys - and girls - JOCK is ALL-STAR! Every week proceeds benefit an LGBTQ sports group. 3p, $2 door. At Lookout, 3600 16th St. at Market, SF. Info: 415431-0306 or lookoutsf.com. DECO’s Amateur Strip Night - The audience at the Deco Lounge every Sunday will vote to award one lucky amateur stripper a CASH PRIZE. Join emcee Nick Parker, DJ Lambchop, hot
Weight Watchers LGBTQ Meeting registration and weigh-in starts at 6p, discussion at 6:30p. At the Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut St., Berkeley. Questions? jeanne.obrien@ weightwatchers.com . St. James Infirmary for Sex Workers Free, confidential, non-judgmental medical care, massage, acupuncture, peer and substance use counseling, legal and social service referrals and a food/clothing bank. You can check your email, get a chair massage, or face acupuncture while you wait and talk to other sex workers. If you get a treatment, its not just a clinic, you can hang out with all your friends who you never knew were hookers, too! Tuesday 12p3p, Wednesday night from 6p-9p, Thursday 6p-9p. Transgender Health Clinic. Current and former sex workers as well as their partners and families are welcome to drop in. Donations of food, money and clothing welcome. Info: 554-8494. Harvey’s Funny Tuesdays - Ronn Vigh and Nick Leonard present the best in Gay and Gay friendly comedy in the heart of the Castro. 9p sharp at Harvey’s, 500 Castro Street (at 18th), SF. FREE Admission, one drink minimum. Every week new funny acts!
Cockfight at Underground SF – First and third Sat. DJs Earworm, MyKill, and DCNSTRCT. $7,9p-2a. Underground SF, 424 Haight Street, SF, (415) 864-7386.
Wilde Chats – A loosely structured community-driven group get together every Saturday morning to discuss specific issues affecting us as gay men and our gay community. The group is lead following a “Socratic” model; rath-
Free Your Mind - Queer Youth Arts and Crafts Fridays from 4pm - 7pm The Center’s Youth Program fosters a weekly arts and crafts night for LGBTQ youth ages 24 and under. Come and get involved in planning our “Free Your Mind” art exhibit that aims to deconstruct stigmas around homeless and transient LGBTQ youth. Oil painting, wood burning, origami, stenciling and spray painting, jewelry making, stitch ‘n’ bitch, screen printing and fashion fun! Free pizza and snacks provided. Earn $150 stipend for your time (space is limited). If you are interested please feel free to drop in and should you have any questions, contact Beck at 415.865.5560 or beck@sfcenter.org. The Center, 1800 Market at Octavia, SF.
Mondays
group of gay guys - friendly, supportive and non-competitive - who loves drawing the male nude in gay male company. The group is open to men and women of all persuasions . To reserve space, call day of the group that you want to attend: Mark - 415- 621-6294.
Wednesdays
Duplicate Bridge - QuickTricks Bridge Club, 7p, ACBL duplicate open and 299’er events. Meets in Ellard Hall of Most Holy Redeemer Church, thru gate on Diamond St. at 18th Street. Lesson series too. Info: www.quicktricks.org.
Tuesdays 13 Licks at Q Bar - Every Tuesday this is the hottest dance party in the Castro! NOW featuring photo backdrops by Closet Riots, photos by LISF blog (Lesbians in San Francisco) and music by DJ Nuxx, who was voted San Francisco Bay Guardian’s Best DJ in SF for 2010. We’re “Queer” because we LOVE YOU! Ladies Night Mixed 456 Castro St. SF. Feminist reading circle: Origin of the Family, Private Property and the State - A roundtable discussion of Frederick Engels’ classic work on the persistent problem of women’s inequality and how it can be overcome. On Tuesdays beginning November 1,7pm - 8:30pm, 747 Polk St, SF, $2 suggested donation per session. Everyone welcome. Sponsor: Radical Women. For more information, call (415)8641278 or email baradicalwomen@earthlink.net. New FTM/transmasculine group @ TRANS THRIVE - Groups are open to female-to-male (FTM) people, transguys, butches, studs, genderqueers, two-spirited, third-gendered, questioning folks, trannyfags, trannyboys, boydykes, transmen, papis, transmasculine folks and whatever else you call yourself. About once a month we have a special event. Every Tuesday from 6p-7:30p Check online calendar for details. TRANS: THRIVE, 815 Hyde St., 2nd Floor/ Info http://www.transthrive.org.
Clair’s Drop-in - Free, one-on-one counseling to help transgender community members on their personal evolution, including an overview of TEEI services. It is recommended that you call ahead to verify your walk-in time beforehand. Contact Clair Farley at clairf@sfcenter.org or call 415-8655632. Visit the Transgender Economic Empowerment Initiative (TEEI) website teeisf.org - Matching dynamic people with sustainable jobs in safe workplaces - for more info. Wednesday 1p-4p at the SF LGBT Center, 1800 Market at Octavia St., SF. Fruity Wednesdays - Queer Youth space at Larkin Street. Drop-in Larkin Street Youth Services offers a safe space to Queer Youth every Wednesday. Each week, youth are served a meal, offered showers, peer counseling and a structured program meant to keep the focus on community building. The First Wednesday of the month kicks off with an Open Mic event for youth to perform and get tested for HIV. The second and third Wednesdays are for cultivating the creative process, with the help of Larkin’s Art Department. The last Wednesday youth are offered workshops on relevant and important issues peers in their community currently face. Drop-In. Larkin Street Youth Services, 1142 Sutter St., SF, 6p-8p. Flyers www.facebook.com/pages/ Fruity-Wednesdays. Erotic Reading Circle with Carol Queen - Join readers and share your erotic writing! Bring something to read
SF/Ladies Night Foreplay @ Lime It’s ladies night Tuesday’s 50% off Food. 6:00 pm to10:00 pm for ladies. Ladies get 50% off food, $4 champagne and well drinksStart your night off with us, every Tuesday 6pm-10pm. $4 well drinks/champagne. Also see our Fabulous Happy hour. http://www. lime-sf.com Lime 2247 Market St SF 415.621.5256. Youth Meal Night - Tuesdays from 5 p-8:30p at The Center (1800 Market at Octavia, SF) - this weekly program provides homeless, marginally housed and foster care youth up to 24 years with a nourishing meal, welcoming environment, film screenings, art projects, discussions and a wide array of different community building activities. For more info please contact Beck at 415-865- 5560 or beck@sfcenter.org Buddhist Meditation - Drop-in Meditation Classes in Downtown San Francisco. Tuesdays in Downtown S.F./ Lunchtime classes. 12:15-1:00pm Saint Mary’s Church in the Paulist Bookstore, Room 3. 614 Grant Ave. (cross street California). With Buddhist Teacher Alise Halbert. Gay Men’s Sketch - Weekly male figure drawing group. Professional, yet intimate and relaxed. Classical nude modeling by a gay male model. Five 2min gestures, one 15-min pose & four 20-min. poses. 6:30p - 9:30p. Intimate South of Market home studio, open drawing session, no instruction. A nice
or just be part of the appreciative circle of listeners. This is a great place to try out new work (ask for comments if you like), or get more comfortable reading for other people. Longtime writers will bring their latest, newly inspired writers; bring that vignette you scrawled on BART while daydreaming on your way to work! Non-judgmental listening guaranteed; all orientations welcome. Carol Queen and Jennifer Cross host/facilitate this space every 4th Wednesday of the month. Dedicated to erotic writers and readers! $5-up sliding scale, 7:309:30pm, at The Center for Sex & Culture, 1519 Mission St., (btw S. Van Ness & 11th), SF. Info: sexandculture. org. Leathermen’s Discussion Group Discussions and presentations by and for the leather community. Free and open to all adults. Held on the 4th Wednesday of every month, 7:309:30pm at Blow Buddies - Upstairs Community Room, 933 Harrison St, SF. Info: sfldg.org.
(REVELING continued from page 1) of a century. But that magic—building a community of song and dance, of feasting and story—that magic is older, even, than Christmas itself. You see, the Christmas Revels is really the Winter Solstice Revels. And for longer than recorded history, people have gathered at the darkest time of the year to bring back the light. They’ve lit bonfires to call back the sun, and they’ve found new warmth and brightness in their own hearts by singing and dancing the dark away.
story told by children as well as for them. I love that we have the power to honor the mystery of the dark, to sit in hushed stillness in a dimly lit hall to hear the click of antlers tapping together in a 900-year-old dance. I love that we have the power to make the sun rise in our hearts, as hundreds of people sing together a song of peace. I love that we hold onto the traditions of long-ago ancestors, and that each night we make something completely new.
And that’s the tradition that’s dearest to me for the season. I like to go to church on Christmas Eve. I like to light the Chanukah candles, to say the blessing and have latkes with sour cream and applesauce. I love the lights and the fragrant trees and the carols and the eggnog. But better than anything, I love the power of people coming together to make something bigger than any one of them: a multiharmonied choir, a spiral dance, a
The world in general may still hold that traditional Norman Rockwell picture of what the holidays look like. But in the magical world in which each Christmas Revels show takes place, there is room for my family as exactly who we are, and we welcome the audience into that magic as exactly who they are—folks from group homes who come to our outreach performance, men in kilts, older women wearing reindeer antlers, little girls
(FAIR Act continued from page 2) and social challenges, opponents of equality are manufacturing ‘problems’ to advance their extremist agenda, and they’re using our schools as the battleground,” said Clarissa Filgioun, Equality California board chair. “The FAIR Education Act will simply ensure that California’s students learn an honest, accurate, and inclusive account of history; but opponents of equality have grossly distorted the intent and the effect of the FAIR Education act in their quest to dismantle it.” She added, “We know that when Californians learn the facts about the FAIR Education Act, they see these efforts for what they are – the same tired attacks and lies these groups have used for years to turn back the clock on LGBT equality.”
(TREE OF HOPE continued from page 18) heart – to give individuals a way RW F website, rainbow fund.org/ to joi n toget her to ex pres s ou r tree. hopes and intent ions for t he fut ure of our globa l com mun it y,” T he pr oje c t i s i n s pi r e d by t he says RWF Executive Director Jef f story of Sadako Sasaki, the child whose journey and death several Cotter. years after the bomb was dropped Notable wishes on the tree include i n H i rosh i ma , t r a n sfor med t he some written by President Barack or ig a m i cra ne i nto a sy mbol of O b a m a , D a m e J a n e G o o d a l l , world peace. Members of the volSecretar y of State Hillar y Clin- unteer team that fold the w ishes ton, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Mayor into cranes include sur v ivors of Gav i n Newsom, Jen n i fer Siebel the 1945 atomic bomb. Newsom, Sh irley Temple Black, Frances Moore L appe, Dan iel le The World Tree of Hope will be Steel, Patty Duke, Sharon Gless, available for public v iew in San Cour t ney Cox, Dav id A rquette, Francisco City Hall from December 1, 2011 to Ja nua r y 2, 2012. and RuPaul. RW F and the Cit y of San FranWishes by publ ic can be sent to cisco would like to ack nowledge Rainbow World Fund, 4111 - 18th t he Delancey Street Foundat ion St reet #5, SF 9 4114 or v i a t he for generously donat ing t he 20 foot white f ir tree this year.
in fancy dresses, extended families on their annual holiday outing, people who join lustily in the sing-along portions, and folks who watch the pageantry in silence. We all come together as Revelers, a community of people who cherish things ancient and modern, who believe in the power of music and dancing and stories to drive the dark away. I’m not sure what a “traditional” holiday looks like for an inter-faith, bi-racial family with lesbian moms. But this year, our traditional holiday going to look like a celebration in the court of King Arthur. We’d love to have you join in that celebration. The show runs December 9, 10, 11 and 16, 17, 18 with Friday shows at 8pm and Saturday and Sunday shows at 1pm and 5pm. You can find out details and order tickets at www.californiarevels. org.
(GUEST EDITORIAL - STU SMITH continued from page 4) ty jumped in and sacrificed their time and energy helping all living with this awful disease. New fund raising and service entities came to be like The Academy of Friends, The Richmond Ermet AIDS foundation and the UCSF AIDS Research Institute which bound and continue binding us together to find a cure and help those in need that only terminal illness can cause. I grew healthier as a result of all these gifted and caring people, and today we continue the fight as we must, to find a cure, to serve our brothers and sisters all over the world diagnosed with HIV. We fought well and we’ve changed the course of human history with our campaigns against this disease and the enormous sufferings it brings to all affected. Shanti remains the AIDS Service Or-
ganization closest to my heart and I continue being of service to their mission and clients. December 1st is World AIDS Day and this year, AIDS30 is bringing 16 agencies and all of us affected together to join and honor all those lost with an event titled ‘Paint The Castro Red.’. Recently two remarkable men released documentaries ref lecting on the age of AIDS and both focus much of San Francisco and the caring and concerned folks who call it home: David Weissman who captured the essence of another time in San Francisco with ‘The Cockettes’ released We Were Here and Marc Smolowitz gave us The HIV Story Project, two award-winning documentaries with each telling some of this story. The
real story of AIDS and San Francisco is really about our LGBT community, courage, compassion and commitment to solving a human tragedy and making the change happen.
Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, State Senator Mark Leno, Supervisor Scott Wiener, Assistant District Attorney Rebecca Prozan, former Supervisor Bevan Dufty, and civil rights attorney Rafael Mandelman attend club events and have shown steady support for its “Save the Steps” campaign. The club building (which is for sale)
and its distinctive outdoor steps are a central gathering place for people seeking a refuge from the Castro’s alcohol and drug infused party scene. The recent Harvest Feast featured Mistress of Ceremonies Heklina from Trannyshack. The club’s Olivia Hart and the studly bartenders offered greetings and mocktails. More than $10,000 was raised at the dinner, bringing the total to $170,000 raised so far to save the club’s site. Sultry Zachery Davenport, dressed as a character known as Laybelline, presented a spectacular drag show to benefit the club recently, and he
Stu Smith is a restaurateur, writer, reviewer, Silicon Valley entrepreneur, public television host, loyal and devoted San Francisco liberal with a love of life, family, friends and being useful. He’s been part of the Beatniks, Hippies, Materialists, Drunkards and Despots and today serves as board chair at Shanti and the Paratransit Coordinating Executive Council. Hosting The Drag Show while writing his burger blog and reviewing for Yelp, as well as being a newly married gay men, are his passions and truths today.
shared the stage with club manager Terry Beswick and drag stars Serenity Heart and Olivia Hart. There was unexpected interaction with the audience, including large lipstick marks on a tall sexy man’s forehead. The drag star’s outfits drew the envy of Davenport’s visiting cousins. The Thanksgiving feast was a part of the series of events designed to entertain and bond the club’s members to each other and help save their lives. It was a fine party that makes it clear why the Castro Country Club should be preserved.
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I guess I should be pleased at Newt’s rise to the top, given that I want Obama to win a second term. But it’s still disturbing. Who are these people, my fellow Americans, who would align themselves, f irst with Cain, then with Newt? I’m a good Democrat, and I disagree with Republicans on the usual range of policy issues. I opposed Dole, Bush and McCain. But at least I understood why those on the other side of the aisle would nominate those men as their standard bearers. As for Sarah Palin, once McCain made what was clearly an ill-conceived choice, Republicans had to go along. But if Republicans deliberately nominate Newt Gingrich, they will cross a line of political sanity and descend into dark waters, indeed. I have to assume that when all is said and done, Romney or Huntsman will emerge victorious. That said, it’s not clear at this point how we’ll get from here to there. And I say “we” rather than “they,” because a presidential nominee is in some ways an American issue regardless of party. Something Will Kill You Someday I just heard that apple juice has arsenic in it. Now that I think about it, it seems as if legal rations of things like arsenic and rat droppings are present in trace amounts in all sorts of comestibles, doesn’t it? At some point, you just have to stop listening and stop reading. Cell phones give you brain cancer. Coffee saves you from liver cancer. Snoring leads to strokes. Apple juice has arsenic. Spinach has e-coli. The shopping cart has germs. My advice is to ignore the entire platter of health news with the exception of those pleasant surprises where you learn that something you already like or do turns out to be good for you. Drinking wine and getting eight hours of sleep are on my - relatively short - list. Oh, and dark chocolate.
So Sad I see now that my space is running out, and I haven’t covered the limited amount of GLBT news on my list. But I can be forgiven here. Civil union couples in Illinois can file joint state taxes. Bisexual softball players are allowed to play in the gay softball league. People are making comments about stuff we’ve already covered and will continue to cover, like, say, the effort to pass an antigay amendment in New Hampshire. There’s also some violence, which depresses us all. And who needs that during the holidays?! The governor of Massachusetts signed the trans rights bill that we wrote about last week or maybe the week before. So that’s good, but it’s not earth shattering. You get the picture. It’s the start of the Slow Season in GLBT news, a month-long period where the headlines turn from marriage equality legislation and gay soldiers to “Gay Man Denied Job as Elf ” or “Brooklyn Lesbians Answer Children’s Letters to Santa.” Actually, we’ll probably have some news on our various DOMA cases in the next few weeks, so all is not lost. Speaking of gay soldiers, the Marine Commandant said that the repeal of Don’t Ask is going well, and while I got five emails on this exciting development, it was a non-story to me. Meanwhile, I have recorded a half dozen episodes of my new favorite reality TV show, “Kitchen Nightmares,” which feature Chef Gordon Ramsey going around to horrible restaurants and transforming them into delightful eateries through insane ranting followed by compassionate encouragement. I’ve already watched many of the shows, so I now find it hard to eat at a restaurant without hearing Ramsey’s voice in my ear. When some poor schmuck asks me how “everything tastes,” I have the urge to say, “it’s bland, I’m afraid. Bland and mushy. Was it in a microwave?” After the shocked waiter leaves, I’d look at Mel, and simply say: “Sad.”
(SISTER DANA SAYS continued from page 19)
(TWO EXTRAORDINARY THANKSGIVINGS continued from page 4) iday with other people who are freeing themselves from substance abuse. The club is a refuge that features meetings for more than 700 people a month, and is the most successful Baker Places project since 1983, according to its executive director Jonathan Vernick.
(ROSTOW continued from page 5) lectual” or “genius” is ludicrous. What are they smoking over there in the GOP electorate? Have they been spending their time at my fantasy VIP airport lounge?
and
are $9 advanced, $12 door, & $20 for V I P seat ing. A lso feat ures a holiday photo booth, raf f le, and Club SQRRRL DJs Trevor Sigler and Bi l l Dupp. A panel of commentators including Mutha Chucka and Jane Wied l in of t he Go Go’s will comment on noteworthy looks. Sister Dana will be one of the models. We better work, bitch! J O Y O U S , J O L LY, J I N G L E S is t he t it le of t he Sa n Fra ncisco Gay Men’s Chor us’ a n nua l holiday concer t on Dec. 8 , 8pm i n the magnif icent Masonic Auditor ium. Ma ke your plans to br ing in t he hol idays w it h t his specia l performance on Nob Hill featuring breathtaking soprano Melody Moore (SF O pera’s “ Hea r t of a Sold ier”); t he dy na m ic Velocit y Bells hand-bell ensemble; and the C ont r a C ost a W i nd Sy mphony. T he 270 -plus si nger s have been rehearsing, memorizing, learning their choreography, laughing a lot, and even crying a bit at the sheer beaut y of t he music, which r uns the entire gamut of every possible holiday experience – from childhood to adu lt hood. It w i l l t a ke you on a ride through “holiday memory land” like none before. T he cha l lenge t h row n dow n by the Chorus’ Music Advisory Committee upon Conductor and Artist ic Director Tim Seelig’s arr ival was to create a hol iday extravaganza that would wrap the audience in the warmth of the familiar while f inishing of f decorating the
pa c k a g e w it h some new, s h i ny, a nd u n fa m i l ia r or na ment s. Ti x and info at sfgmc.org. S A N TA SK I V V I E S RU N i s Dec.11, beg inning and ending at L o okout ba r (16 t h a nd M a rket Streets). Ready? Set! Strip! End HIV! Start time is 1pm, registration ($35) from 11am on. Produced by and benef iting San Francisco A I DS Fou ndat ion. T he route is a spontaneous romp through the Castro d istr ict consist ing of unplanned tw ists, turns, stops, and h iji n k s . A l l r eg i st er e d r u n ner s will receive a stunning Santa hat. Once you cros s t he f i n i sh l i ne, continue the fun at Lookout, the of f icia l host for t he Sant a Sk ivvies Run. Drink and food specials will be available for participants. Ru n ner s receive t hei r ow n pers on a l f u nd r a i s i n g p a g e on t he website. Fund ra ising is opt iona l for a l l r unners, but I encourage c r e at i n g a f u nd r a i s i n g g oa l t o help suppor t SFA F. Wea r some r ed s k iv v ies , S p eedo s , pa nt ies , bra or other undergear. And that Santa hat that you get for registering doesn’t hurt either. Streets are not blocked of f; however, the sight of a few hundred r unners in red under pants can stop traf f ic! Info and FAQ at greaterthanone.org. Have ya checked out the of f icial Ca st ro hol iday t ree w it h it s big ball ornaments? As we all know: Sister Dana likes big balls!!!
BAY T IM ES DEC EM BER 1, 2011 25
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Masters. Providing Museum Quality Custom Framing. www.pelicanart.com, 707-773-3393
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Beauty Services Connie Cook – Colorist/Hair Artist, www.conhair.com Phone: 650-2514010 Email: conhair@comcast.net Why Me? I Stop. (Talking) I Look. (At you, not at myself in the mirror) I Listen. (To you, not my ring tones) Char’s Hair Design, Charlotte ReedPrice @ Image USA Beauty Salon, 1645 Hollenbeck Ave. Sunnyvale. Phone: (408) 398-4892. Email: charreed2011@gmail.com
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COVER YOUR ASSETS: Insurance for YOUR community. Life, Disability, Final Expense. Aaron Van Arsdale 415-717-4984. aaron.insure@gmail. com. Life Agent Lic # 0G10774
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Financing Is a Reverse Mortgage for You? Are you at least 62 years of age and own your home? Get paid a monthly amount, line of credit or a lump sum payment. You always retain full ownership. Call Lauren Dunlap, Nova Mortgage. (510) 540-7911 / (415) 7532272.
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Seeking Room for Rent Prefer LGBT household Unfurnished up to $600 SF or other Bay Area location plcosta@comcast.net
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Single Gay Man Desires Sunny Room up to $850. Mature, Responsible, Clean, Humorous, Meditator. Ed 415-447-4388.
Gay Man Looking to be a Known Donor for a Lesbian/Couple. 5’10’’, excellent health, HIV neg., with high fertility numbers, educated (Masters), athletic, attractive, and descend from two loving and long-lived Spanish families. www.gayfamilyoptions.com item /221
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B. Scott Levine 510-763-2300 bscottlevine@gmail.com
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Monument Markers Art of Remembering: Custom Memorial Markers in Bronze. Sigrid Herr, 510.708.9635. Sigrid@artofremembering.com
Discover the secret spots of Bahia/ Brazil with Leo. Visit www. TravelingwithLeo.com
Real Estate Tucson, AZ Voted by The Advocate in 2007 as one of the Top Ten Cities for Gays to live. Progressive, Affordable, Beautiful. Thinking of moving or a second home? Call Lia Lopez Tierra Antigua at 520-975-4488 or email tucsonhaven@yahoo.com
Religious Services Celebrate @ Ner Shalom – Your Spirit Deserves Nourishment! Our approach to Judaism is exciting & unorthodox. We are inclusive & LGBTQI-friendly!
Didgeridog Doggie Daycare & Overnights. Where small dogs play while you’re away! www.didgeridog. com
www.shalomevents.org, 707-6648622. Located in Sonoma County.
DOG TRAINING in Your Home Cindy Gehring, Dog Trainer 408-238-1540, DogHelpNow@gmail. com, www.cindygehring.com
Soko Joshi Judo & Self Defense Club for Women. 415-821-0303 phdshelley@sbcglobal.net
Your dog deserves to be treated with the same love whether you’re at home or away! Call 510-655-5518 for your personalized in-home dog boarding needs in the SF Bay area (Emeryville/ Oakland border) smalldogboarding. vpweb.com
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Professional Concierge At Chore Service415-336-5168 manny@atchoreservicesf
Does your sex life feel out of control? Sexual Compulsion Therapy Group for Men is now forming in Berkeley. For information regarding group time, location and fee: Contact Ivan Skolnikoff, MFT at 415-721-4527.
Travel
Shelly Crouse-Monarez. Violin Performer & Mentor. 415-244-8198. Shellycrouse_monarez@yahoo.com, All Occasion Music, Group and Private Instruction.
SURF DOG large dog boarding at Ocean Beach. Queer Owned. sfsurfdogs.com. (415) 637-7717
Dash Limousine and Sedan Service. Serving the San Francisco Bay Area… and the World. Meryl Kelso, Owner. info@dashlimo.com, www.dashlimo. com. Phone: 650-400-7277.
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Sports San Francisco Gay Basketball Association’s Open Court Play every Sunday, 5:00 pm, Eureka Valley Recreation Center. www.gaybasketball.com
TRAVEL WITH US. Our members, gay men over 40, have been staying in each others’ homes, having good times, making new friends and saving $$$ as they travel for over 10 years. Travel Lambda Connections Club. www.TLCclub.net
Free weekly support group forming for gay men dealing with mid-life issues. Call Kurt for more info. 415-647-3465. Experienced Psychologist - LGBTQ Issues - Castro - Sliding Scale - Diana Gray, PhD (PSY10607) 415-309-4729
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Soulmates, Playmates or Stalemates? Negotiating the stages of gay relationships alone can be extremely difficult. My experience as a gay couples therapist will help you and your partner relieve the stress of dysfunctional communication and enhance the quality and intimacy of your relationship. Scott Balderson, MFCC (MFC34280). 415-255-6181.
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Upcoming Events
Dutcher Crossing’s Daisy Damskey at “Wine Time”
Sandy Holmes & Kate Kendell with Betty at the recent Ladies Night Anniversary Party.
Olivia Travel’s Tisha Floratos and DJ Rockaway
December’s Events Saturday, December 3rd
Singles Holiday Brunch & Mingle Noe Valley Location Co-hosted by Irene Hendrick & Chef Gloria Swanson 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
Wednesday, December 7th
Smart Women / East Bay @ The Bellevue Club, Oakland Featuring the Bay Times Holiday Gift Guide Recommendations. 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM.
Wednesday, December 14th
Smart Women Holiday Party Co-hosted by Katharine Holland @ Coldwell Banker, 2355 Market Street, SF Benefit for One Warm Coat and Canned Food Drive. 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM.
Thursday, December 15th
Yoshi’s Ladies Night Special “Windam Hill Winter Solstice Celebration” Barbara Higbee, Liz Story and Lisa Lynne Hosted by Betty & Jen. 8:00 PM Performance.
Saturday, December 31st New Year’s Eve Party @ The City Club. Details coming soon!
More News, Stories, and Arts & Entertainment online
Information: www.bettyslist.com or 415-503-1375 baytimes_ad_print_dancealongnutcracker_6x7-1/4.pdf
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11/6/11
@sfbaytimes.com
9:48 PM
esbian/Gay Freedom Ban L o c s i c d’s 20 ran F n a 11 S
g N n o u l t c A r a e c c n a D the music! You do the d ker
ay l p e W
ancin g!
“Betty’s List” LGBT News
Services & Events
“Betty's List” Ladies Night invites you to the Castro's newest hot spot, Canela Bistro
2272 Market Street • San Francisco December 1, 2011 Hosted by: Betty Sullivan • Heather Freyer • Nicole Ostrowski
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
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Clara’s Magical Mystery Tour
unt disco 20% oups of for gr more! 10 or
Limited space available for Mix & Mingle Bar Dinner Seatings 6PM & 8PM Featuring award-winning wines from
RSVP only at http://bettyslistladiesnightcastlerock.eventbrite.com
www.sfbaytimes.com BAY T IM ES DEC EM BER 1, 2011 27
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