Our community recently lost two inspirational leaders and activists who dedicated their lives to helping others. Barbara Brenner died after a long battle against breast cancer and ALS. Dotty Fowler passed away after being in hospice for a week.
Barbara Brenner, the former executive director of Breast Cancer Action, first worked as a lawyer before turning her attention to women’s health issues, mirroring her own struggle. Under Brenner’s strong direction, BCA grew into a national organization that built awareness and led to research on causes and prevention. Brenner later suffered from ALS, a disease that silenced her voice and left her immobile, and yet she still forged ahead with her activist work, always thinking of others. As Cindy Pearson, executive director of the National Women’s Health Network, said, “Barbara made things happen in the world of breast cancer. She was responsible for changing the way women thought about breast...
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2013 Pride Grand Marshals Announced
Published: May 2, 2013
The San Francisco Pride Committee has confirmed the 2013 Pride Parade Grand Marshals. They include Mario Benton, wardrobe stylist and fashion show producer; Chili D (Diane Felix), DJ and event promoter; Bevan Dufty, SF Director of Housing Opportunity Partnerships and Engagement; Veronika Fimbres, licensed vocational nurse and transgender specialist; Kamala...
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No Taxation with Discrimination: Ending DOMA and Beyond Equality
Published: April 18, 2013
By Stuart Gaffney and John Lewis, Marriage Equality USA
Last week as we were busily collecting our 2012 receipts, W-2 and 1099 forms and preparing to hit the send button on our income tax returns, we thought maybe, just maybe, this year might be the last that legally married...
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LGBT Family Camp Changed My Life
Published: April 18, 2013
By Zak Mandel-Romann
Camp It Up is known for being the first family camp for LGBT (and more) families. While the majority of the families are gay or lesbian parents with children, Camp It Up’s goal is not to draw attention to that fact. “Camp,” as it is known...
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Unprecedented Security Likely at Pride 2013
Published: April 18, 2013
The devastating Boston Marathon tragedy has officials from around the world reassessing their security plans for major public events. In London, for example, the Metropolitan Police is working very closely with race organizers to help ensure a safe London Marathon on Sunday.
Here in the Bay Area, unprecedented...
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Camp It Up This Summer
Published: April 18, 2013
Camp It Up! was founded in 1989 by Jill Rose and Ellie Schindelman, two lesbian moms looking for the perfect family vacation. It was the first family camp in the country to do specific outreach to LGBT families. In the twenty-four years since its inception, Camp It Up! has served...
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Gay and Lesbian Sierrans Celebrate Earth Day Every Day
Published: April 18, 2013
April 22 is Earth Day, but here in the beautiful Bay Area, many of us enjoy the outdoors year round. The SF Bay Chapter of the Gay & Lesbian Sierrans takes that plan up a notch by going on one memorable adventure after another. Debra Riat kindly shared images from...
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Under One Roof Is Determined to Survive
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 21, 2013
The history of Under One Roof began in 1990 when a group of friends, wanting to stop the epidemic ravaging their community, joined together to create a small retail shop, the proceeds from which they would give to local AIDS service organizations (ASOs). They occupied a little corner of the...
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Sarah E. Tigerman (1961-2013)
Published: March 7, 2013
Sarah E. Tigerman, a San Francisco resident and native of Half Moon Bay, passed away on February 23, 2013, after a long illness.
Ms. Tigerman graduated from Half Moon Bay High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Davis and worked with the developmentally disabled. Sarah...
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SF Gay Basketball: Going Strong into Its 28th Season
Published: March 7, 2013
By Tony Jasinski
These are very good days for the San Francisco Gay Basketball Association.
There are three different components to the organization. A new season of the Castro Basketball League, one of the SFGBA programs, will start soon. There may still be room to enroll. Also,...
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A Tribute to Chief Warrant Officer Charlie Morgan (1964-2013)
Published: February 21, 2013
Our community and our country lost a true hero recently. On February 10, 2013, Chief Warrant Officer Charlie Morgan passed away after a long battle with breast cancer. Some of you may remember I wrote about Charlie in my very first Bay Times column nearly a year ago.
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Oakland: The Sunnier Side of the Bay
Published: February 21, 2013
The Advocate recently named California’s second largest city, Oakland, as the 11th gayest city in America. (San Francisco wound up number 17 on the list, while Tacoma, Washington, earned the top spot.) According to journalist Matthew Breen, “while it’s seriously hard to compete with San Francisco’s LGBT cred, Oakland is...
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Oakland Pride All Year Long
Published: February 21, 2013
By Rebecca Kaplan
Oakland is home to one of our nation’s highest concentrations of artists, and religious congregations – and lesbian couples – in America. We are a city working to unite around common needs for public safety, expanded economic opportunity and an inclusive, thriving future. Oakland has a strong history...
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Gay Asian Pacific Alliance Celebrations
Published: February 7, 2013
By William Nguyen and Benjamin Leong
On January 26, the Gay Asian Pacific Alliance had its annual GAPA Banquet at the beautiful and majestic Empress of China in the heart of San Francisco Chinatown. Attendees at the GAPA Banquet included San Francisco Mayor Edward Lee, Campbell Mayor Evan Low,...
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Transition and New Beginnings
Published: January 24, 2013
By Rafael MandelmanThe New Year has brought with it a set of political transitions and new beginnings.
After months of maneuvering by the Supervisors and their supporters and much prognostication by City Hall watchers about who would succeed David Chiu as Board President, it turns out that the new...
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Bay Times comes out
Published: January 10, 2013
(Editor’s Note: The below statements were published in the very first issue of the SF Bay Times, which hit newsstands back in 1978.) The San Francisco Bay Times, a newspaper by lesbians and gay men, published its first issue today.
Bay Times general manager Bill Hartman said the...
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Alice Democrats Celebrate
Published: November 29, 2012
By Rafael MandelmanThe Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club had much to celebrate at its annual Fall Awards Ceremony on November 14th at The Lookout. Just over a week following President Obama’s re-election, attendees were still basking in the afterglow of that happy event, made all the happier by the...
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A Lavender Sweep for the Nation
Published: November 15, 2012
By Reese Aaron Isbell
Twenty years ago, the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club led our community into historic “Lavender Sweeps,” as they were then named, in 1990 and 1994. Twenty years later, in 2012, we have had our first “National Lavender Sweep.”
During the times of Harvey...
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GGBA Offers LGBT Supplier Certification
Published: November 15, 2012
By Maureen McEvoy
San Francisco’s Golden Gate Business Association, the nation’s first LGBT Chamber of Commerce, is offering help to businesses that would like to register as LGBT owned businesses. With this certification, LGBT businesses would qualify for contracts from over 130 corporate and government affiliates and gain...
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Now, Let’s Sweep the Election! - Bay Times Endorsements
Published: November 1, 2012
The Bay Times asked its contributors to weigh in on key election issues and races. We have compiled the results below. As the first LGBT newspaper in the Bay Area to be published by both lesbians and gays, the Bay Times has always covered diverse interests and viewpoints. Our team...
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Laying the Groundwork: Trees, Buses and Nightlife
Published: October 18, 2012
By Supervisor Scott Wiener Editor’s Note: With this issue we welcome Supervisor Scott Wiener as a columnist for the Bay Times. Whenever possible, we attempt to present information from first hand sources representing diverse viewpoints within the LGBT community. We are honored to include Supervisor Wiener in our strong lineup...
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Baseball Mojo
Published: October 4, 2012
By Staci SlaughterSF Giants Are Pro LGBTEditor’s Note: Special thanks to Staci and the Giants for their help in compiling this piece during an incredibly busy time for the team. That speaks volumes itself about their ongoing support of our community.
We are proud that the Giants have a...
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Jehovah’s Witnesses Helped to Kill Prop 8
Published: October 4, 2012
By Joel P. Engardio
Will anyone thank Jehovah’s Witnesses for helping gay and lesbian couples win the right to marry?
Everyone knows Mormons took a lot of abuse for helping pass Proposition 8, the amendment that banned same-sex marriage in California. But few realize how Jehovah’s Witnesses, that...
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Supervisor Wiener Introduces Legislation Restricting Public Nudity
Published: October 4, 2012
Supervisor Scott Wiener this week introduced legislation restricting public nudity in some public spaces while allowing it in other appropriate spaces. Specifically, the legislation would prohibit display of genitals and buttocks in city plazas, parklets, sidewalks, streets, and public transit. The legislation contains a blanket exemption for street fairs, festivals,...
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Bill Supports Better Foster Care for LGBTQ Youth
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 4, 2012
An Equality California-sponsored bill designed to make foster care safer and more supportive for LGBTQ youth was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown. Assembly Bill 1856, authored by Assemblymember Tom Ammiano and co-sponsored by the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, will require existing training programs for foster youth caregivers...
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Power and Hope
Published: October 4, 2012
By Rafael MandelmanQueer Power SFThe Board of Supervisors’ September 18 approval of CleanPowerSF - a program to provide San Francisco consumers with 100% renewable energy - was widely celebrated in activist circles as a great victory for the environmental movement and a blow to PG&E’s monopoly. Less widely acknowledged was...
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Proposal May Ban Public Nudity in SF
Published: September 20, 2012
Public nudity is allowed in San Francisco, so long as the individual is not visibly sexually aroused. It’s therefore OK to parade around letting it all hang out, as long as you’re not enjoying it too much. One has to wonder about cold days, when blood naturally flows to certain...
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Back-to-School Kit Giveaway
Published: September 20, 2012
By Karla Rosales San Francisco Recreation and Park Department (RPD) in partnership with Active 20-30 Club (Active 20-30 Club of San Francisco #4) and Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA) will be hosting a back-to-school kit giveaway event at Youth Space, a SF Rec and Park’s special community hub for LGBT youth...
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CA Bill Would Permit Children to Have More Than Two Legal Parents
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 6, 2012
The California Assembly voted 51-26 in support of Senate Bill 1476, which will allow judges to recognize the reality that some children have more than two parents. This bill makes it possible for a third parent - such as a gay father who is raising a child with a lesbian couple...
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SF Bay Sailing Glossary
Published: September 6, 2012
By Katharine Holland
Many people are put off by all of the complex sailing terms and jargon. To make it worse, we have some special terms for San Francisco Bay. Here are a few that come to mind:
The Slot – This refers to the area bordered by...
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Journey to the America’s Cup
Published: September 6, 2012
By Mindy Oppenheim
I couldn’t wait to see the AC races from my boat. All the hullaballoo got to me, including talk of redevelopment, jobs, opportunities, money to be made... not to mention, the big, beautiful and expensive catamarans racing on the bay.
On the first day...
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Watching the America’s Cup Aboard the Freda B
Published: September 6, 2012
By Grace Floyd
I had the great good fortune to be invited aboard the Freda B schooner to watch a day of the America’s Cup. Knowing nothing of the America’s Cup history or understanding the dynamic of the races that day, I felt welcomed by Captain Paul, his wife...
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To Burn or Not to Burn
Published: August 23, 2012
By Gary Virginia
Many options exist for Labor Day weekend fun, from picnics with friends to Oakland Pride and Southern Decadence in New Orleans. But many LGBT folks have been preparing for months and are now packing their fake fur, survival kits, and fantastical couture and heading to the maddening...
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The Fabulous Sister Boom Boom Memorial
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: August 23, 2012
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence held a beautiful memorial to the man, Jack Fertig; the former nun, Boom Boom; and the Muslim practitioner, Boom Boom XXX. Fertig succumbed to liver cancer in the loving presence of his partner Elias Trevino and dogs, Chloe and Perry, on August 5. He was...
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Protect Youth from Being Forced into Ex-Gay Therapy
Published: August 23, 2012
By GAYLESTA — Gay Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Psychotherapist Association of the Greater San Francisco Bay Area
Sexual Orientation Change Efforts (SOCE), commonly known as reparative therapy, conversion therapy, or ex-gay therapy, are practices that have been ineffective and harmful. SB1172 is a bill proposed by the California State Legislature...
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Senate Approves Bill to Protect Surviving Partners in Same-Sex Relationships
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 23, 2012
The California State Senate has voted 34-1 to approve AB 1700, which remedies unequal treatment in the tax code that would protect LGBTQ seniors at significant financial disadvantage from unfair tax increases that may result in the loss of their homes after the death of a partner. The bill, authored...
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LGBT & Non-Traditional Family Tax
Published: August 9, 2012
Contending with the fragmented, ever-changing landscape of tax and financial laws and regulations impacting our community is an immense challenge. Many of us have likely been losing money each year as a result. In response to the problem, Marcum LLP- a leading national accounting, tax and advisory firm- recently formed...
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Chevron’s Pass/Fail LGBT Rating
Published: August 9, 2012
Monday’s massive fires at the Chevron Refinery in Richmond affected many in our community. Thick, black smoke spewed over much of the Bay Area, forcing thousands of East Bay residents to stay in their homes with the windows and doors closed. What isn’t closed, surprisingly, is Chevron’s proverbial closet, since...
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An Important Step Toward Improving LGBTQ Senior Health
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 26, 2012
The Administration on Aging (AoA) announced that it would release important new guidance that empowers AoA-funded aging providers to consider LGBTQ older adults as a population of “greatest social need”—paving the way for increased services that can significantly improve their health and wellbeing. The Human Rights Campaign and Services and...
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Saving the Boys of Summer
Published: July 12, 2012
...
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It’s About Freedom
By Teddy Witherington Published: June 21, 2012
There is no such thing as “bad taste” at Pride. People wear ridiculous outfits and insignia that at any other time would be cause for derision, much less pride. They Indian wrestle down their gullets the kind of things that can only be eaten after a bout of sunstroke and/or...
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Almost Everything You Wanted to Know About the Grand Marshals of the Pride Parade
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 21, 2012
Celebrity Grand Marshal Sarah Silverman Sarah Silverman is a comedian, actress and your favorite Jewish friend. Over the last two decades she has made guest appearances on dozens of television series and in feature films, as well as being the star of three seasons of her own Comedy Central...
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Rejoice and Remember: Pride Is Here!
Published: June 14, 2012
Bay Times celebrates right along with you. Our pre-Pride issue includes an overview of what's not to be missed. Also, we honor Patrick Carney and the Friends of the Pink Triangle whose work tells the story of one of Pride's most powerful symbols. Watch for the Pink Triangle atop Twin...
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DOMA, Prop 8 Decisions Give Equality Activists HopeÂ
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 14, 2012
Two recent court decisions are helping to pave the path toward marriage equality. First, U.S. District Judge Barbara Jones in Manhattan recently led the fifth federal court in ruling that the Defense of Marriage Act’s section 3, the one that defines marriage, is unconstitutional.
This was on the grounds that it violates...
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SFLGFB's Louie Retiring
Published: June 14, 2012
Jadine Louie, artistic director/conductor of the SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band for 13 years, has announced she’s stepping down from the podium at the end of June. Louie will wrap up the Band’s 34th year conducting the Annual Pride Concert, 7 & 9 pm, Friday, June 22.
“Jadine has...
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Vote and Help Fix Democracy
Published: May 31, 2012
By Leslie Katz
When asked to provide a piece on the importance of voting, the upcoming election generally, and why the Democratic County Central Committee (“DCCC”) matters, I immediately thought of a comment former Senator Bill Bradley recently made when talking about how to fix our democracy. To paraphrase,...
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A Bicycling Novice Takes on AIDS/Lifecycle 11
Published: May 31, 2012
By: Karen Bardsley
My massage therapist says I am ready, which is reassuring. Of course, the fact that I desperately need the services of my massage therapist only a week before the ride begins does not bode well. Still, she insists I will do fine. Since I am about...
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About This Election
Published: May 31, 2012
Election Day is Tuesday, June 5 Polls open 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM In 2012, voters will choose a President and lawmakers to represent them in national and state government. The results of California’s June primary election will decide which candidates move on to the November general election.
Voters...
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LGBTQ Candidates to Care About
Published: May 31, 2012
Candidates you will want to consider in making contributions and voting decisions include the following from our LGBTQ community. Note: Two candidates for DCCC District 17, Stu Smith and Zoe Dunning, are regular columnists for the Bay Times and Leslie Katz is also a contributor. Guest editorials have appeared in...
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Golden Gate Bridge 75th Anniversary
Published: May 17, 2012
By Betty L. Sullivan and Jennifer L. Viegas
Careful now.
We’re dealing here with a myth.
This city is a point upon a map of fog;
Lemuria in a city unknown.
Like us,
It doesn’t quite exist. —Ambrose Bierce
Rising out...
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Celebrating Harvey Milk Day 2012
Published: May 17, 2012
Harvey Milk Day is celebrated globally on March 22nd in memory of gay rights activist Harvey Milk, who was assassinated in 1978. In 2009, California’s legislature and then governor Arnold Schwarzenegger established Harvey Milk Day as a “California Day of Special Significance.” This marked the first time in the nation’s...
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Have You Been to Macondray Lane?
Published: May 3, 2012
Armistead Maupin’s dreamy, magical Tales of the City novels and other memorable works weave such a compelling spell that their resonance never fails to captivate. Who, for example, can stroll down Russian Hill’s Macondray Lane without thinking happily of its fictional twin, Barbary Lane? The wooded enclave in the heart...
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DOMA Continues to Threaten LGBTQ Military Families
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 3, 2012
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) on May Day fired back at Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) and his Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group (BLAG) for their request to intervene in McLaughlin v. U.S., the landmark federal court case filed in October 2011 by eight married gay and lesbian service...
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Sex, History & Lesbian Outlaws
Published: May 3, 2012
Sex, History & Lesbian Outlaws The following interview of Jeanne Cordova by Margie Adam took place on April 29, 2012 at the Montclair Women’s Cultural Arts Club in Oakland. Barbara Price hosted the event, which marked the San Francisco Bay Area launch of Cordova’s new book, When We Were Outlaws,...
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NCLR Timeline: A Glance at History
Published: May 3, 2012
1977—Lesbian Rights Project founded (re-named National Center for Lesbian Rights in 1989) 1980—NCLR wins landmark victory in California for Denise Kreps, denied a job as County Sheriff because of her sexual orientation 1981—NCLR brings groundbreaking case on behalf of a woman discharged from the National Guard solely for being a...
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NCLR Roundtable
Published: May 3, 2012
Bay Times co-publishers Dr. Betty L. Sullivan and Jennifer L. Viegas were recently invited to participate in a roundtable discussion with three notable NCLR leaders. They included the organization’s founder, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Donna Hitchens, now retired, who is known for numerous judicial and community accomplishments. Hon. Roberta...
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Why We Support NCLR
Published: May 3, 2012
What NCLR Means to Me By Jewelle Gomez & Karen Williams
What’s the ultimate challenge for a newspaper publisher? Getting TWO busy activists to write an article together on a deadline. Well, that’s the task that was requested for this special insert to celebrate NCLR’s 30+ birthday, and who...
Emphasizing that AIDS is not over, more than 200 demonstrators on Good Friday participated in the “Resurrection March of ACT UP.” Marking the 25th anniversary of the founding of ACT UP (the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power), the event commemorated the lives of almost 20,000 San Franciscans who have died...
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Equality CA Honors Dianne Feinstein
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 19, 2012
Equality California presented the Equality Leadership Award to Senator Dianne Feinstein at the SF Equality Awards on April 14 at the Fairmont Hotel in recognition of her long-time advocacy on behalf LGBTQ people, including legally married same-sex couples in California. Sen. Feinstein has championed the Respect for Marriage Act, which...
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Resurrecting Religion
Published: April 5, 2012
By Rev. Jim Mitulski
Easter is a time when resurrection metaphors abound for Christians. For Jews, it is the time of Passover, the remembrance of liberation from slavery. The natural world springs forth with flowers and blooms that remind us of the cycle of birth and death and re-birth....
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Soiree 10 Was One Fabulously Fun French Gala
By Kirsten Kruse Published: April 5, 2012
Soiree 10, the LGBT Center’s 10th Birthday Celebration, was a great escape from the downpour threatening to wash away fabulously dressed French-inspired San Franciscans last Saturday. The Gay-la went down at the Design Center in SOMA, whose 4-story open architecture is full of glamour and glitz. A walking Eiffel Tower...
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Food Fuels LGBTQ Community
Published: March 22, 2012
By Betty L. Sullivan & Jennifer L. Viegas
During the hearings for US Supreme Court chief justice John Roberts, a participant pulled out a picture of a mustache-sporting fellow presenting Roberts with a cake. “Roberts must be gay,” the commentator speculated. “Straight men don’t pose with food.” If...
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Targeted Killing of Iraqi Youths Sparks Castro Vigil
Published: March 22, 2012
By Gary Virginia
In recent months, multiple reports coming out of Iraq indicate that as many as 100 or more youths have been killed for dressing or acting in “Western” style. Targeted as suspected gays, goths or “emos,” the victims’ names were often listed on public flyers and...
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Out & Equal Honors Courageous LGBT Leaders
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 22, 2012
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates is a nonprofit committed to ending workplace discrimination for LGBTQ employees. Each year, the Out & Equal Leadership Celebration honors individuals and organizations that demonstrate workplace courage and support of LGBTQ equality.
On March 14 at the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel, Out &...
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BALIF Annual Gala Celebrates SF Values
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 22, 2012
Bay Area Lawyers for Individual Freedom (BALIF) is the nation’s oldest and largest bar association of LGBTQ persons in the field of law.
Founded in 1980, BALIF represents its members’ interests in the wider San Francisco Bay Area. BALIF members and supporters include San Francisco Bay Area judges,...
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We’re All in This Together
Published: March 8, 2012
By Betty L. Sullivan and Jennifer L. Viegas
Even as the Bay Times pauses to acknowledge today’s annual International Women’s Day and concurrent observances of Women’s History Month throughout March, we must consider the perennial questions around unity and separation among men and women in our LGBTQ community.
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Castro Farmers' Market Return
Published: March 8, 2012
By Debra Morris
The Castro Farmers’ Market will be back in action on Wednesday, March 14 with Northern California’s freshest fruits and vegetables and live music and activities to entertain patrons all summer long. The market will run until December 19, open every Wednesday, from 4pm to 8pm, on...
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LGBT Community Center 10th Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 8, 2012
The San Francisco LGBT Community Center will hold its 10th anniversary celebration, “Soiree 10: a Decadent Celebration of Avant-Garde Culture,” à la mode française on Saturday, March 24, when the San Francisco Design Center Galleria becomes a decadent turn-of-the-last-century Parisian salon. Paris’s “Belle Époque,” or “beautiful era” pre-World War I,...
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Mr. SF Leather 2012 Crowned
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: March 8, 2012
During SF Leather Alliance weekend, after the annual Mr. SF Leather contest at Hotel Whitcomb, Jessie Vanciel was crowned Mr. SF Leather 2012. Many awards were given to individuals and organizations, and leatherman/cop Lenny Broberg was roasted for “Twenty Years of Giving” in a tribute as a fundraiser for the...
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Academy of Friends 2012
Published: March 8, 2012
Academy of Friends 2012 – “Scandalous!” was the theme of the 32nd Annual Academy of Friends Gala benefit for Bay Area HIV/AIDS organizations. Held this year at the SF Design Center Galleria on February 26th, selected beneficiaries included Huckleberry Youth Programs, Maitri, Shanti, Tenderloin Health and Women’s HIV Program at...
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Good Vibrations Celebrates 35 Years of Pleasure
Published: March 8, 2012
Good Vibrations sounds the trumpets on their thirty-fifth year with a month of parties, workshops and promotions. For the trusted San Francisco-based company that takes pride in providing accurate information on sexuality and toys for grown-ups, time flies when you are having fun.
From its humble beginnings in 1977...
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President Obama Visits SF
Published: February 23, 2012
By Betty Sullivan & Jennifer ViegasA sold out crowd estimated at 3000, including more than 200 LGBT community members and allies, attended a fundraiser at San Francisco’s Masonic Auditorium on February 16th to hear President Barack Obama speak. Rock musician Chris Cornell of Soundgarden entertained during the program.
Organized...
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Academy of Friends Gala Announced
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 23, 2012
Academy of Friends (AoF) announced the selection of five HIV/AIDS agencies covering multiple Bay Area counties as the beneficiaries of money to be raised at the 32nd Annual Academy of Friends Gala. Academy of Friends has been one of the leading contributors to the Bay Area’s frontline battle against HIV/AIDS,...
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Addressing the Housing Needs of LGBTQ Seniors
Published: February 9, 2012
Editor’s Note: Openhouse founder Marcy Adelman, PhD, shares with the Bay Times her testimony from the recent public hearing held Thursday, January 26th.
Comments of Marcy Adelman, PhD:
“Hello, Dr. Adelman, this is Mary Kelly. I am Sarah Brown’s partner. Sarah died a few years ago. I...
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Permanent Plaque Honors Jane Warner
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 9, 2012
Patrol Special Police Officers joined with City leaders and residents on Saturday, Feb. 4 to unveil a long-awaited permanent plaque at the 17th and Castro Streets pedestrian plaza honoring Officer Jane Warner. Officer Alan Byard, Patrol Special Police Officer Association president, acknowledged the generous financial contributions of many private individuals...
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The Face of Homelessness
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 26, 2012
The San Francisco Public Library is presenting the exhibition, “Acknowledged,” featuring portraits of Project Homeless Connect clients taken by San Francisco photographer Joe Ramos. The photographs are on view January 28-March 25, in the San Francisco Main Library’s Jewett Gallery, 100 Larkin Street.
Ramos began photographing the clients...
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Bipartisan “Mayors For The Freedom To Marry” Launches
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 26, 2012
Freedom to Marry, the campaign to win marriage nationwide, launched “Mayors for the Freedom to Marry” on Jan. 20 at a press conference held at the 80th annual U.S. Conference of Mayors meeting in Washington, D.C. “Mayors for the Freedom to Marry” is a bipartisan group of 80 mayors who...
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San Francisco Ushers in the Year of the Dragon
By Heidi Beeler Published: January 26, 2012
You could say 2012 comes in like a rabbit and goes out like a dragon. Last Monday, January 24, Lunar New Year celebrations cracked off throughout Asia and Asian communities around the globe, ushering in the Year of Dragon. The celebration (traditionally 15 days) will be capped off here on...
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Castro Country Club Safe for Now
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 26, 2012
The building housing the Castro Country Club since 1983 has been sold to a local businessman who intends to keep all the tenants in the building. CCC has been a safe haven for nearly three decades for LGBTQ people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. The businessman made the purchase...
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Oakland’s Revitalized Gay Scene Sizzles
Published: January 12, 2012
When The New York Times recently announced its “45 places to go in 2012” list, many people were shocked to see Oakland in the number five spot. Sandwiched between London at number 4 and Tokyo at number 6, Oakland was a surprise entry, especially given the city’s badder than bad...
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Tenderloin Health Closing Doors Due to Funding Cuts
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 12, 2012
Due to continued funding challenges, the board of directors at Tenderloin Health (TLH) has announced that it has voted to discontinue operations of the agency. TLH has focused on providing a continuum of care to vulnerable, poor, and homeless residents living with or at the greatest risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS...
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Leather Discussion Group Holds Bash
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 12, 2012
SF LDG (the San Francisco Leather Discussion Group) held their 15th annual celebration in the SF LGBT Community Center Ceremonial Room. It featured arrival photos with Tony Hunter and Nick Moretti on the LDG red carpet by Santa Stadtmiller, Rubber Santa and the Island of Misfit Boys discipline corner, escaped...
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The Black Coalition on AIDS Benefit at Trigger
By Rink Published: December 29, 2011
Former Emperor John Weber received a request from the Black Coalition on AIDS’ (BCA) executive director Perry Lang for a benefit event only two weeks before the party on Dec. 18 at Trigger. Coordinator Weber pulled out all the stops to line up a talent cavalcade of LGBTQ African American...
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Slain Supervisor Harvey Milk Remembered with Candlelight March
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 15, 2011
It was a night of remembrance of the lives and untimely deaths of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone on the anniversary of their assassinations. This marked the 33rd such event. Around 100 participants gathered at Harvey Milk Plaza on Castro and Market on Sunday evening, where thoughts were...
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SF Pride Names Brendan Behan as Executive Director
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 15, 2011
The San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Pride Celebration Committee and its board of directors has announced that Brendan Behan, a longtime staff member and former deputy executive director at Pride, will serve as the organization’s new executive director. “For forty-two years, San Francisco Pride has been at the...
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World Aids Day Commemorations Around the Bay Area
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 15, 2011
The National AIDS Memorial Grove commemorated World AIDS Day with two days of events honoring leaders instrumental in the fight against AIDS and whose work has been inspirational and courageous during the 30 years since the first diagnosis of AIDS in the United States. The Grove itself marked its 20th...
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Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center Honors Two Citizens
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 15, 2011
Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center (A&PI Wellness Center) is the oldest nonprofit HIV/AIDS services organization in North America targeting Asian & Pacific Islander (A&PI) communities. To meet the needs of their clients who are often immigrants or refugees, A&PI Wellness Center’s staff speak many Asian languages including Cantonese, Hawaiian,...
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Activists React to Prop 8 Ruling in Federal Court
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 1, 2011
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....
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Reveling in the Holidays
Published: December 1, 2011
By Lynn Ungar
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...
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WORLD AIDS DAY
Published: December 1, 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 corner and will be able to better treat and eradicate the infectious virus. Many of you reading The Bay Times today are enjoying fulfilling and productive lives...
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â€Express Lane’ Expands HIV & STD Testing in the Castro Source: San Francisco AIDS Foundation
Published: December 1, 2011
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...
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Barbara Grier, 1933 - 2011
By Dayna Verstegen Published: November 17, 2011
Barbara Grier was born in Cincinnati and came out of the closet at the age of 12. When she told her mother that she was a homosexual, her mother, who came from a theatrical family and therefore took a more enlightened view of sexuality than most at the time, said...
Project Inform presented “Evening of Hope: a Night of Lifesaving Fashion” at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. This San Francisco must-attend fête featured cocktails, culinary delights, live auction by Lenny Broberg, music by dj DCM and Kidd Sysko, and gorgeous models wearing one-of-a-kind condom couture showcasing designers’ signature...
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Chaka Khan Sings for American Foundation for AIDS Research
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 17, 2011
The American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) put on a festive Moroccan themed fundraiser at the Ken Fulk Studio entitled, “Violet Eyes in the Red City,” after those very famous peepers of amfAR founder and Dame Elizabeth Taylor. The event featured a special performance by Chaka Khan.
A...
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GLAAD’s Joan Garry to Help With EQCA Transition
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 17, 2011
Equality California has seen a lot of change over the past year, most recently with the unexpected departure of Executive Director Roland Palencia. “As board presidents for Equality California and the Equality California Institute, we believe it is our responsibility to seize opportunities and use this transition time to carefully...
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Academy of Friends Oscar Fundraiser Will Launch the Gala Season
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 17, 2011
Academy of Friends was founded in 1980 by Kile Ozier as a small, private Oscar Night party - 25 friends, some great food, lots of champagne, and plenty of glamour. Over subsequent years, the party became an HIV/AIDS fundraiser, a reaction to the toll HIV was taking on the local...
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The Art of Living Mike Ward (1962 - 2011)
By Mike Ward Published: November 3, 2011
On July 19, Bay Times’ Jazz & Cocktails columnist Mike Ward slipped into a coma and died. Just days before, he sent me the first installment of what he hoped would be an ongoing column, “The Art of Living.” They say that people who are dying always understand best what...
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Kevin Winge Chosen to Lead Project Open Hand
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 3, 2011
Veteran nonprofit executive Kevin Winge has been selected as the next executive director of Project Open Hand following a nationwide search. Laura Smith, chair of the board of directors of Project Open Hand said he will begin his tenure with Project Open Hand on January 16, 2012.
“When we...
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Shanti Celebrates Nearly Four Decades of Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 3, 2011
Founded in 1974 by Dr. Charlie Garfield at the UCSF Cancer Institute, Shanti was one of the first-ever volunteer organizations to work with terminally-ill individuals, and later became one of the very first community-based HIV/AIDS organizations in the world. Shanti has trained over 15,000 volunteers in the Bay Area and...
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Local Organizations Raise Money to Raise Community Up
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 3, 2011
Horizon’s Dinner Honoring George Takei – October 1By Sister Dana Van Iquity
Horizons Foundations held its annual gala at the elegant Fairmont San Francisco for “A Perfectly Suited Evening” to support the LGBT community. The evening began with a cocktail reception and a silent auction, and after members of...
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Bay Area Poet Kay Ryan - 2011 Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur “Genius Grant” Winner
Published: November 3, 2011
By Kathleen ArchambeauKay Ryan was cycling through Colorado on a 4,000 mile bicycle trip when she made the decision to become a serious writer because she loved writing more than anything. Coming from a family of oil diggers and secretaries in the Mojave Desert who thought poetry was “putting on...
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Endorsing a Mayor the Democratic Way
Published: October 20, 2011
By Kirsten KruseDuring this election cycle, you have probably seen endorsements from a variety of LGBTQ organizations and newspapers. You may wonder why and how those decisions are made. The Bay Times is committed to fair reporting and therefore want to describe our process for selecting our first, second and...
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Ruth Brinker Memorial Celebrated a Life of Compassion
Published: October 6, 2011
A memorial service was held for Project Open Hand Founder Ruth Brinker who passed away on August 8. The service took place in the North Light Court of City Hall to celebrate her good works and giving spirit. Three dozen photos of Brinker had been set up on easels along...
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Folsom Street Fair was Fetishy Fun in the Sun!
Published: October 6, 2011
By Master Sister Dana Van Iquity
The grand finale of Leather Week in San Francisco is always the annual Folsom Street Fair, a very adult affair for fans of leather, feathers, latex, and every kink but the kitchen sink – and all for charities. There is S&M in...
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The Grand Ducal Coronation at the Green Room
By Rink Published: October 6, 2011
Hundreds of gowned and jewelry-adorned guests packed into the San Francisco Veterans Building Green Room on Sept. 24. They were joined by others in splendidly costumed outer space costumes and uniforms, some to the extreme edges of kitsch. They were there to celebrate the Grand Ducal Court’s royal coronation and...
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Disco Sister Fundraiser Held to Help Stop Violence
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 6, 2011
Having watched countless documentaries and news programs, and thereby gotten very angry and depressed about the senseless tragedies of the 9/11 attacks, this nun needed an escape. So The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. gathered at the Edge bar to break out our favorite disco tunes and rock the house...
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Transgender Law Center Celebrates 9th Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 22, 2011
Tita Aida returned as the always witty and wonderful mistress of ceremonies at the Transgender Law Center’s party on Sept. 16 at the EndUp with Josh Klipp and the Klipptones playing lively jazz and members of the Rice Rockettes dancing and lip-synching as 1940s Rosie the Riveters to “Sweet Sugar...
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Activist and Writer Arthur Evans, 1942 - 2011
Published: September 22, 2011
Arthur Evans, one of the founding fathers of modern gay liberation, died of a massive heart attack last week. Months before his death, he emailed a copy of his own obituary he had written. Arthur played a key role in Bay Times history. In recent times, his acerbic and sarcastic...
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Two Political Candidates Speak Out for Medical Marijuana
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 22, 2011
Axis of Love SF Patient Advocacy Team presented “Dinner, Disco, & Dance!” as the theme of their last dinner and harm reduction service. These events, held every last Wednesday at 4:30 pm in the Women’s Building auditorium on 3543 18th St. #8, are a compassionate dinner and fundraiser for a...
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Assemblyman Tom Ammiano’s Re-Election Party at Rebel Bar
By Rink Published: September 22, 2011
High pressure politics and controversial comedy were featured at the Assemblyman Tom Ammiano re-election party at the new Rebel bar on Sept. 13. Ammiano is a longtime progressive activist who was one of the first openly gay teachers in San Francisco. His political work began when he worked with activists...
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Castro Street Fair Is October 2!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 22, 2011
Always the first Sunday in October from 11 am to 6 pm, the annual Castro Street Fair is located in the heart of San Francisco’s Castro District, at the intersection of Market & Castro Streets and the surrounding area.
The Castro Street Fair is a community street celebration that...
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Pride Parade Committee Meets at W Hotel, Chooses 2012 Theme
By Rink Published: September 22, 2011
More than 70 people gathered at the elegant W Hotel in SOMA on Sept. 9 to work their way through a long agenda of the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee General Meeting.
The Pride Committee has had its ups and downs over the last year, but this is...
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Baldwin Announces Candidacy to be 1st Openly LGBTQ Senator
By Dayna Verstegen Published: September 8, 2011
Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) announced Tuesday that she will run for the U.S. Senate in the seat being vacated by Senator Herb Kohl. Kohl has held the seat for thirteen years. Baldwin has also served the state of Wisconsin for thirteen years, representing the 2nd District.
Baldwin was...
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Drink Good - Do Good Carnival Benefits HRC & Bay Times Education Programs
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 8, 2011
Drink Good – Do Good is one branch of the Do Good Coalition, which regularly honors two institutions that contribute to the spirit and integrity of San Francisco – premium alcohol and social responsibility. They periodically host themed events where guests can taste unique alcohol brands, socialize with friends, and...
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Lyon-Martin Health Services Financials Turn Corner
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 8, 2011
In January of 2011 the historic San Francisco community clinic, Lyon-Martin Health Services, nearly closed its doors due to significant cash flow issues, partially caused by a debt of over one million dollars. After an unprecedented response from patients of the clinic, community members, clinic staff, and the San Francisco...
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Mistrial Declared for Teen Murderer of Gay Teen
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 8, 2011
A California Superior Court judge confirmed on Sept. 1 that a jury was unable to reach a verdict in the murder trial of Brandon McInerney, who is accused of shooting his gay classmate, Lawrence King, in 2008. McInerney was 14 when he killed King, age 15, an openly gay teen...
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Progressive Mayoral Candidate Terry Joan Baum Fights the Good Fight
Published: August 25, 2011
By Kirsten KruseTerry Baum, a lesbian playwright, San Francisco homeowner, activist and idealist, is running for mayor of San Francisco on the utopian ticket. “We could be the City on the Hill. We could be the city that could consciously make the decision to have a loving community,” Baum said....
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SF Pride Reports Successful Year, Predicts Strong Future
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 25, 2011
The board of directors of San Francisco Pride announced at their check distribution party on Aug. 16 that this year’s San Francisco Pride Celebration and Parade, held June 25 and 26, was one of the most successful yet in the event’s 41-year history. As a result, 100% distribution of grants...
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Sweet Seekers Found Sugary Satisfaction at Open Hand Fundraiser
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: August 25, 2011
Project Open Hand hosted their 11th annual “Dessert First” fundraiser at the beautiful InterContinental San Francisco hotel. Since 1985, Project Open Hand (POH) has been providing “meals with love” to people living with serious illnesses and to seniors in San Francisco and Alameda County. Arriving on the scene in 2000, “Dessert...
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GAPA Runway 23 Crowns New Mr. And Miss GAPA
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: August 25, 2011
Gay Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) presented “Runway 23: Donchavishuponastar: It’s All About the Happy Ending” at Herbst Theatre, hosted by the always hilarious Tita Aida and co-chaired by Benjamin Leong and Brian Yee. It was the stepping down ceremony for the audacious Miss GAPA 2010 Doncha Vishuwuzme and Mr. GAPA...
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Thank GLAAD it’s Friday!
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 25, 2011
GLAAD launched its first in San Francisco “Thank GLAAD It’s Friday!” (TGIF), one in the national networking event series for young LGBTQ professionals and straight allies on July 29 at Rebel. This is the fifth annual “Thank GLAAD It’s Friday” national event series. Set in popular venues, TGIF events include...
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A Fearless Activist, and a Hell of a Friend
By Rink Published: August 11, 2011
The cover of the Jean Harris memorial program featured an eye-catching portrait and a quote from California Democratic Party Chairman John Burton: “A fearless activist, and a hell of a friend.”Burton joined more than forty political activists and friends of Harris at Delancy Street on July 21 to present a...
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LGBT Center Hosts Historic Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club Meeting
By Rink Published: August 11, 2011
The LGBT Community Center was host to a historic meeting of the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club on July 11. The club was joined by members of the San Francisco Police Department for a discussion and walk down memory lane. Prior to 1964 and the San Francisco “Stonewall Riot” raid...
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Board of Supervisors President David Chiu Speaks at Medical Marijuana Dinner
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 11, 2011
Axis of Love SF Patient Advocacy Team presented a “Summer Fish Fry & Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner” at the Women’s Building in honor of the lifetime achievements of community elder Tom Jones. This was the monthly Compassionate Action Dinner & Fundraiser for a community center for the veterans, disabled, and...
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It’s Not Easy Being Dolly
Published: July 28, 2011
By Iris MansourParton-istas might have noticed that the Dolly Lama herself was in town last Sunday. I certainly did. Item number four on my American bucket-list is “Be Dolly Parton For The Day” and Dolly’s presence in the same state as me sparked my kamikaze mission to meet her.When I...
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AIDS WALK’s 25th Anniversary Raises $3 Million Dollars
By Rink Published: July 28, 2011
More than 25,000 people gathered at AIDS WALK’s 25th anniversary on July 17 in Golden Gate Park and raised more than three million dollars for care services, testing, and prevention for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. More than a thousand volunteers registered and coordinated the walkers, recycled throwaways, and handed...
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Breaking Bread with the Sisters & Distributing Grants
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 28, 2011
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. hosted a festive party with food and drink at their grants distribution dinner, “Breaking Bread with The Sisters.” Held on July 23 in the rooftop Ceremonial Room at the SF LGBT Community Center, it was an opportunity to break bread before doling out the...
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Losing Lucifer
By Heidi Beeler Published: July 28, 2011
Blame it on the AZT cocktails... It had been 16 years since a Band member’s death had knocked the teeth out of Pride weekend, and my guard was down. Nearly two decades of protease inhibitors, and that edge you hone – that cross between wired alertness and philosophical resignation you...
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FAIR Education Under Attack Volunteers Needed to Combat Opponents
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 28, 2011
The campaign to eliminate the LGBTQ-positive FAIR Education Act through a referendum has started. The Fair, Accurate, Inclusive, and Respectful (FAIR) Education Act is intended to increase student safety and lower rates of bullying by educating K – 12 students about our contributions throughout history during social science lessons. The law...
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Pride Parade Committee Holds Volunteer & Member Appreciation Party
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 28, 2011
Pride Parade and Celebration Chair Lisa Williams welcomed the roomful of Pride Parade members, staff, and especially the many, many volunteers who helped make the yearly SF Pride Parade and Celebration be as gayriffic as it could be. Williams introduced the interim executive director, Brendan Behan, who said, “As you all...
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Jean Harris Memorial on July 21 at Delancey Street Foundation
Published: July 14, 2011
By Carol StuartLongtime Lesbian activist Jean Harris has died. Jean was 66 years old and died at home in Palm Springs, California.Known for her spirited use of colorful language and her manner of man-dress, she was often viewed as a polarizing figure. A cross-dressing Lesbian before it became commonplace, Jean...
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Inside the Parade
Published: July 14, 2011
By Heidi Beeler I’ve been Out in Gay Mecca for 20 years. On the last Sunday of every June, I make a beeline from some point west of the Ferry Building down to City Hall, crammed between convertibles and motorcycles, dodging men on roller skates dressed in day-glo G-strings and bristling...
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Magnet Anniversary: Eight Years of Medicine and Culture in the Castro
By Rink Published: July 14, 2011
Most of the Magnet staff made an appearance at the eighth year anniversary party on July 9 at their beautifully designed space. Steve Gibson, Magnet’s director, spoke about life before the clinic opened, and how he gathered support when the community learned that the San Francisco LGBT Community Center would...
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Mayor Lee Appoints Three to Redistricting Task Force
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 14, 2011
ayor Edwin M. Lee has announced the appointment of Myong Leigh, Sonia Melara, and Marily Mondejar to the nine-member body of the San Francisco Redistricting Task Force to determine how the supervisorial district lines should be redrawn.“The Census has shown the population of San Francisco grown, and changes to our...
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The Frameline Volunteer Appreciation Party at the Stud Bar
By Rink Published: July 14, 2011
The Frameline Film Festival volunteers were greeted again this year at the doorway of their annual appreciation party at the Stud bar on June 29 by the festival’s board president. Gregarious Randy Quebec was following the lead of last year’s board chair president Thom Matson, who made a point of...
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Head of San Francisco Arts Commission Resigns
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 7, 2011
Mayor Edwin M. Lee announced on July 5 that he has accepted the resignation of Luis R. Cancel, the Director of Cultural Affairs and the head of the San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC).
"Mr. Cancel has informed me of his desire to return to New York City, and...
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Axis of Love Speaks Out As Medical Marijuana Grower Gets Five Years Incarceration
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 7, 2011
Supervisor David Campos has prepared to enter legislation to support Compassionate Care Facilities in San Francisco for medical cannabis patients. Compassionate Care Facilities - or CCF's - will be modeled after the Axis of Love SF Community Center, where no exchange of funds takes place. Even though they are not...
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Evan Low Campaigns as Openly Gay Asian Assembly Candidate
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 7, 2011
Evan Low is one of Northern California's rising political stars, as seen in his bid to represent Silicon Valley in the Assembly. Low recently attended a campaign fundraising party at the home of Bob Mitchitarian, who also co-hosted the event. Low was in San Francisco along with a special guest,...
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13th Annual Pride Brunch Honors Parade Grand Marshals
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 30, 2011
Guests joined co-hosts Gary Virginia and Donna Sachet in honoring the Parade Grand Marshals at the 13th Annual Pride Brunch the morning before the Pride Parade in the Hotel Whitcomb Ballroom. The event was a fabulous fundraiser for Positive Resource Center (PRC), a nonprofit organization serving individuals and families affected...
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Ammiano Fundraiser in North Beach
By Rink Published: June 30, 2011
Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, who served with distinction and humor on the San Francisco School Board and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, was the center of attention at a fundraising party in a private home in North Beach on June 17. Ammiano was one of first teachers to come out...
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Jean Harris, 1945 - 2011
Published: June 30, 2011
Longtime lesbian activist Jean Harris has died. Jean was 66 years old and died at home in Palm Springs, California. The cause of death is as of yet, unknown.Known for her spirited use of colorful language and her manner of man-dress, she was often viewed as a polarizing figure. A...
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PRIDE 2011
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 23, 2011
Welcome to the 41st Annual San Francisco Pride Parade! Hundreds of thousands of visitors from outside the Bay Area will attend San Francisco Pride this year. If that includes you, then make a trip to the on-site Information Booths for a copy of the Pocket Pride or Pride Guide. These...
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Sisters Tell You How To Stay Safe and Well During Pride Weekend
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 23, 2011
Recognizing that Pride month can be booming with activities of all types, no sooner than the rainbow flags began hanging along Market Street this year, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. (San Francisco), began hanging posters and distributing flyers throughout the Castro, SoMA, and Polk neighborhoods asking individuals what they...
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Under One Roof Pays Beneficiaries In Spite of the Bad Economy
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 23, 2011
Under One Roof is pleased to report that its first payout of the 2011/12 fiscal year was made to its agencies at a recent volunteer-staff gathering of the AIDS service organizations it supports. As HIV/AIDS organizations, charities in general, and retailers have struggled with the economic downturn, Under One Roof...
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Frameline Archive Finds a Home at SF Main Library
By Rink Published: June 23, 2011
An informative forum on June 7 at the Main Library was an invitation to the public to see and hear about a recent important acquisition by the San Francisco Main Library. The Frameline Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Film Festival Archive was contributed to the library, and is being organized...
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Elk Grove Man Seeks Justice After Hate Attack Outside Bowling Alley
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 16, 2011
The leadership of Equality Action Now, a local grassroots organization for equal civil rights, has grave concerns about the lack of movement by officials to officially deem a brutal attack of a gay male as a hate crime. Equality Action NOW provides a virtual meeting place for like-minded activists to organize,...
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30 Years Of AIDS - a Rally Marked by Sadness and Hope
By Rink Published: June 16, 2011
The three dozen activists and passersby who gathered at 18th and Castro on June 5 were not deterred by the threat of rain or wind predicted by weather reports. They were determined to mark the 30 years that has passed since AIDS crashed its way into the heady gay scene...
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Bevan Dufty Kicks Off Mayoral Campaign with Hundreds of Friends
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 16, 2011
Enthusiastic longtime supporters and new volunteers joined mayoral candidate Bevan Dufty on June 11 to launch his neighborhood mobilization campaign. Following a pancake breakfast and rally, volunteers from “Team Bevan” hit the streets to meet voters face-to-face.“We are fortunate to live in a city unmatched anywhere in the world. Now, it’s...
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Dufty’s Neighborhood Castro Gathering - Pancakes and Politics
Cliff’s Variety 75th Anniversary Puts On A Show In Their Store In The Castro
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 9, 2011
For the first time since 1967, San Francisco was about to get a major storm in June. Who would have guessed that The Castro Tea Dance on Saturday from 2 pm to 6 pm in the parking lot of the Castro Theater could possibly be rained out in June? The...
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API Wellness Center Was In Full Bloom!
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 2, 2011
API Wellness held their annual signature fundraising gala, “Bloom,” at San Francisco Design Center Galleria, emceed by the sexy, sassy Tita Aida. “Bloom” is one of the, if not THE, biggest charity events geared towards the Asian and Pacific Islander LGBT communities in America. Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center is...
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Flash Remembrance To Be Held About 30 Years of AIDS
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 2, 2011
On Sunday, June 5, from noon to 12:30 p.m. a Flash Remembrance of 30 years of AIDS will occur in the Walgreens window on Castro and 18th Street in the Castro district. “Let’s take a simple, heartfelt moment to remember and educate how 30 years ago on June 5th, our...
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Racing in High Heels to Benefit the Castro Country Club
By Rink Published: June 2, 2011
Four hysterically screaming drag queens ran down Castro Street on May 30, Memorial Day, to the delight of locals, tourists, and a neighborhood street cleaning crew. It was a race from Jane Warner Plaza to the beneficiary, the Castro Country Club, which is a living sober space that has saved...
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Medical Cannabis Compassionate Action Club Holds Monthly Dinner With Plea To Be Free Of Fee
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 2, 2011
It was that time of month again! The theme for the month of May on May 25 from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm with Compassionate Action and Axis of Love was “Happy Birthday Buddha: A Celebration of Compassionate Traditions. Traditions not unlike our monthly dinner for patients!” Held every last...
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The Elizabeth Taylor Party at the Lookout
By Rink Published: June 2, 2011
There was a spectacle to honor actress Elizabeth Taylor at the Lookout bar on May 27 that rivaled their multiple well-known other raucous events. The Lookout is not a part of the Castro Triangle of bars that rarely allow fundraisers, and their tempting bartenders sometimes leap from behind the bar...
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The Elizabeth Taylor Tribute at the Castro Theatre
By Rink Published: June 2, 2011
Elizabeth Taylor had not received much in the way of thanks from the people with AIDS, activists, and the medical community in San Francisco that she helped so much until the night of May 27 at the Castro Theatre. Project Inform’s Development Director Taylor Juel conceived of a benefit for...
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Five LGBT Role Models Honored By National Center For Lesbian Rights
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 26, 2011
The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) presented its highest honors to five trailblazers in the movement for LGBT equality at its 34th Anniversary Celebration on May 21 at the Marriott Marquis, where more than 1,300 people attended as political humorist Kate Clinton emceed. Clinton danced and lip-synched to “I...
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The Project Inform Spring Brunch a Dramatic Observation of AIDS at 30 Years
By Rink Published: May 26, 2011
Project Inform is the non-profit agency that provides information for people with HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C to keep them alive through awareness of drug treatments, monitor funding for health needs, and alleviate suffering. Their commemoration of the 30th year of AIDS was observed at the San Francisco Federal Building Sky...
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Harvey Milk Day Celebrated In Jane Warner Plaza
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 26, 2011
Harvey Milk Day was officially declared by both Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. and San Francisco Representative Nancy Pelosi on May 22, which signaled a huge celebration in the Castro district where Milk had been elected supervisor. Jane Warner Plaza overflowed with people gathered to hear speeches about Milk. In his...
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Celebrating Harvey Milk Day At Milk’s Old Camera Shop
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: May 26, 2011
A bronze plaque is embedded in the sidewalk in front of the building at 575 Castro Street, marking the site as the location of the former home and camera shop of civil rights activist and slain supervisor, Harvey Milk. Under the plaque, Milk’s ashes are buried. Early in the year...
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Glee’s Santana MC’s SF GLAADâ€Media Awards
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 19, 2011
GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) celebrated its 25th anniversary on May 14 at the 22nd annual Media Awards held in the Marriott Marquis ballroom. The GLAAD Media Awards recognize and honor media for their fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of the LGBT community and the issues that affect...
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Maitri Commemorates 24 Years Of Compassionate Care For People With AIDS
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 19, 2011
“Maitri” is a Sanskrit word that means “compassionate friendship.” The signature fundraiser for Maitri every year is called “BLISS,” offering blissful experiences in food and libations, entertainment, and pampering. Maitri hospice believes no one should have to suffer or die alone. Maitri provides compassionate residential care to men and women...
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May 21 is the End of the World!!!!
Published: May 19, 2011
By the Rev. Sister Dana Van Iquity
It all started a few months ago, when The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence started noticing signs being strategically posted near gay bars that Judgment Day was coming on May 21. It turns out these signs are not specifically homophobic but certainly include...
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Officer Jane Warner Remembered in Her Specially Named Plaza
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 12, 2011
On May 8, 2010 our beloved Castro guardian angel, Officer Jane Warner of the San Francisco Patrol Special Police, passed away to patrol a new beat among the angels for sure. In remembrance and celebration of all that Officer Warner meant to so many in the Castro community, a number...
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Operation Shine Is Coming for Homeless Queer Youth
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 12, 2011
Operation Shine America is an advocacy, education, and outreach organization raising awareness of the homeless youth epidemic and the fact that 40% of homeless youth identify as queer. Spokespersons feel that resolving youth homelessness is a crucial next step in the LGBT liberation movement. Queer homeless youth have either been...
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Our Family Coalition Holds Annual Night Out With Actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 12, 2011
Our Family Coalition hosted its annual “NIGHT OUT,” a festive evening in support and celebration of their work to promote the equity and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer families. They held their fundraiser at Wyndham Parc 55 Hotel on Cinco de Mayo. Comedian Marga Gomez was the...
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Shanti Breast Cancer Program Celebrates Ten Years of Service to the Underserved
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 5, 2011
Shanti Project held a benefit brunch for the ten year anniversary of its Breast Cancer Program on April 30 at Hotel Kabuki in the Sakura Room. Shanti recognized the remarkable contributions the program has provided to over 1,000 underserved women and men with breast cancer over the past decade. The...
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Horizons Foundation Presents NoH8 Campaign Creators
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 5, 2011
Horizons Foundation held a cocktail party at Infusion Lounge on April 27 giving the chance for supporters to meet celebrity photographer Adam Bouska and his partner Jeff Parshley, co-creators of the NOH8 campaign. This is the wildly successful use of celebrities, politicos, and just plain normal folk putting duct tape...
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The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Spectacular Easter
By Rink Published: May 5, 2011
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence presented another outrageous Easter pageant as a unique gift to San Francisco in Dolores Park on April 24, Easter Sunday. Since 1979 the order of male and female nuns have dressed up in their wild interpretations of the celebration of Spring and invited the community...
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PAWS Holds Petchitecture Fundraiser and Dog Fest
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 28, 2011
For over 23 years, Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) has been successful in keeping thousands of low-income people living with HIV/AIDS, other disabling illness, and seniors, together with their beloved pets. “Petchitecture” is the signature fundraiser that allows them to fulfill their mission. Held on April 23 at the Palace Hotel,...
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Teen Suicide Inspires LGBT Youth Summit
Published: April 28, 2011
By Ed NessSometimes it takes a tragedy to inspire great ideas. Last year on July 9, 15-year-old Justin Aaberg, a gay youth in Andover, MN took his own life. An Associated Press Report released October 9, 2010 stated Aaberg hung himself after friends said he had been repeatedly bullied and...
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Candidate Evan Low Addresses Supporters at Assembly Campaign Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 28, 2011
Evan Low gathered his supporters for a fundraiser party, stumping in the 2012 campaign for State Assembly, held in the Transamerica Pyramid penthouse on April 21. “Our state is facing unprecedented challenges,” said Councilmember Low. “We need leaders who are committed to changing that status quo, pursuing new innovative solutions, and...
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The Castro Country Club’s Setting for Breakthrough LGBT Health Forum
By Rink Published: April 21, 2011
The club that saves lives in the Castro is celebrating their 28th anniversary and featured a breakthrough health forum at their Edwardian flat in the Castro on April 9. The Castro Country Club was founded as an alternative to the alcohol-fueled social life of the local bars, and innumerable guests...
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The District 8 Town Hall Meeting at Mission High School
By Rink Published: April 21, 2011
Described as something between an informative presentation and a traveling smooth political dog and pony show, Mayor Ed Lee and city department officials made their latest stop in a tour of supervisor districts at Mission High School on April 14. The first sight for attendees were a protest group called...
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Openhouse Holds 7th Annual Spring Fling To Help House Seniors
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 21, 2011
Founded in 1998, Openhouse is building critically needed housing, services, and community programs to support the health and wellbeing of LGBT older adults. In April 2008, Openhouse received entitlement from the City to build 109 units of affordable housing with support services that will be welcoming to LGBT seniors at...
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Celebrate Easter In Dolores Park With The Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: April 21, 2011
This year the theme of the annual Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence anniversary Easter party in the park is “HARE: Old Habits DYE Hard!” If you haven’t figured out the blatant puns in that title, allow cool head Sister Dana to explain, man, that it’s all about the Summer of Love...
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ALRP Holds 11th Annual Volunteer Appreciation Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 21, 2011
AIDS Legal Referral Panel (ALRP) threw their yearly party and awards ceremony in the law offices of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP on April 13. ALRP Executive Director Bill Hirsh said the AIDS service organization served almost 1,500 clients in over 2,000 legal matters, and the volunteer attorneys leveraged over...
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SLDN Hosts Aubrey Sarvis For Briefing On Don’t Ask/ Don’t Tell
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 21, 2011
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network and the host committee comprised of Julian C. L. Chang, Susan Belinda Christian, Michael Costa, Robert D. Dockendorff, Zoe Dunning, Wade Estey, Gary Gartner, Keith Kerr, Neil Lang, Bob Michitarian, and Julius Turman invited military people and equality activists to a special reception on April 15....
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The Dogfest Benefit for McKinley Elementary School
By Rink Published: April 21, 2011
Hundreds of dog owners and their friends crowded into Duboce Park for the 4th Annual Dogfest to benefit nearby McKinley Elementary School on April 16. Arts, literacy, and science classes are to be enhanced with funds raised at the event. There were contests, performances, a children’s area, and booths unique...
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Emergency Meeting to Save the Eagle Bar
By Rink Published: April 14, 2011
More Than 200 Angry Bar Patrons Gather in Crisis
More than 200 angry and confused bar patrons gathered at an emergency mass meeting at the Eagle Tavern on the evening of April 11. Thanks to the email list of DJ Bus Station John and the Facebooking efforts of event...
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Bevan Dufty Stumps for Mayor at Kok Bar
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 14, 2011
Former Supervisor Bevan Dufty is a leading candidate in a wide field for the Nov. 8, 2011 mayoral race, and to win this election, he needs the support of the SOMA LGBT community, among others. For this reason, Dufty held a private fundraising reception just before the grand opening of...
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Republicans Have No Shame Regarding Don’t Ask/ Don’t Tell
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 14, 2011
Shortly before the huge federal budget argument would be somewhat resolved in the 11th hour, Republicans staged a “Don’t Ask/ Don’t Tell” repeal oversight hearing to deny LGBT service men and women the right to serve openly in the military. The House Armed Services Committee (HASC) hearing on “Don’t Ask/...
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AIDS Relief Fund for China Celebrates Seven Years Of Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 14, 2011
AIDS Relief Fund for China held its 7th anniversary celebration on April 7 as a fundraising reception at the Chinese Historical Society, 965 Clay Street, a landmark building that used to be a YWCA, then redesigned by Julia Morgan. The event was hosted by Humphrey Wou, director of AIDS Relief...
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Week Of Omoiyari (Compassion) From SF to Japan Begins
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 7, 2011
In 2004, when the tsunami hit Indonesia and did such horrible damage to that part of the world, leaders in the LGBT community stepped forward and raised over $100,000 for the people hit so hard in the area. When the reports came out of the recent unimaginable 9.0 earthquake and...
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Health And Human Services Announces Steps Towards Improving LGBT Wellbeing
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 7, 2011
There was big news from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on April 1, and that was no April Fools Day joke. HHS announced a number of efforts it was either taking or recommending to President Barack Obama to improve the health and wellbeing of lesbian, gay, bisexual,...
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Activist Community Reacts to Decision To Not Lift Stay On Marriages
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 7, 2011
Marriage equality activists are up in arms regarding the recent decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals having decided not to lift the stay on marriages for same-sex couples in California – thereby forcing loving couples to continue waiting for the freedom to marry as the federal case against...
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Compassionate Action Celebrates Belated Saint Patrick’s Day with Medical Cannabis
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 7, 2011
The Axis of Love San Francisco Patient Advocacy Team produced their Compassionate Action monthly dinner on March 30 and celebrated a belated Saint Patrick’s Day as their theme. They also celebrated the fact that the Women’s Building, where they meet for these events, has renewed their six-month contract every month...
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Studies Find Health Disparities for LGBT Elders
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 7, 2011
The Center for Health Policy Research at the University of California Los Angeles has released a new study that highlights the poor health status of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender older adults compared to the general population. That report was immediately followed by another from the Institute of Medicine calling...
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The It Gets Better Anti-Bullying Climactic Event
By Rink Published: March 31, 2011
Dan Savage and Boyfriend Terry Miller at SF State University
Controversial sex advice columnist Dan Savage and his boyfriend Terry Miller attracted a crowd of more than 300 enthusiastic students and curious visitors to an auditorium inside the Cesar Chavez Student Center at San Francisco State University on...
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Soiree 9 Celebrates The Center’s Ninth Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 31, 2011
The LGBT Community Center’s 9th anniversary gala fundraiser, “Soiree 9: La Dolce Vita,” was celebrated on March 26 at the beautiful San Francisco Design Center Galleria. The theme channeled the glamour, romance, and spirit of Rome in the 1960’s – just like the Fellini film it was named after –...
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AB 433 to Allow Updated Birth Certificates for Transgender Californians
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 31, 2011
A bill that would alleviate the confusion, anxiety, and even danger that transgender people face when they have identity documents that do not reflect who they are, passed the Assembly Judiciary committee in a 7-5 vote. Authored by Assemblymember Bonnie Lowenthal (D-Long Beach), sponsored by Equality California and co-sponsored by...
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Group Applauds Recent Polling On Pro-Equality American Catholic Support
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 31, 2011
Calls For Financial Transparency On Church Funding Of Anti-Gay Political Campaigns Catholics for Equality, a national organization of Catholics who put their faith into ethical and effective political action on behalf of the LGBT community and their families, is voicing concern over an orchestrated effort by conservative leaders within their...
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Castro Farmers’ Market Is Open For Business
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 24, 2011
The Castro Farmers’ Market has returned for its third season in a row. It held its grand opening ceremony on March 16 and will run every Wednesday to December 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. It is located on Noe Street at Market in the Duboce Triangle. Every Wednesday night...
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The Anti-War Protest at Civic Center
By Rink Published: March 24, 2011
The Usual Diversions Are OverHundreds of activists crowded into San Francisco Civic Center in the rain to commemorate eight years since the U.S. invaded Iraq on March 19. Speaker after speaker mentioned the drain on the economy of the country, state, and city services to pay for the Iraq and...
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Bayard Rustin’s Birthday Party in the Fillmore
By Rink Published: March 24, 2011
The Sheba Piano Lounge became a LGBT African American power center on March 17, activist Bayard Rustin’s birthday. The host of the event was the Bayard Rustin Coalition (BRC), which was named for Martin Luther King’s openly gay event organizer and non-violent social change educator. Rustin is best known for...
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BALIF Celebrates Art Of Equality At Gala
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 17, 2011
Bay Area Lawyers for Individual Freedom (BALIF) held their 31st annual gala, “The Art of Equality,” on March 11 at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. There they honored UC Hastings and The Trevor Project, among others. The gala is BALIF’s largest annual event, with over 600 attendees from...
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Queer Teen Bullying Will Not Be Tolerated
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 17, 2011
State Assemblyman Tom Ammiano plans to introduce a comprehensive bill that tackles school bullying by providing California schools with specific tools to prevent and address the pervasive problem in order to create a safe school environment for all students. Schools often do not have the tools or knowledge to adequately...
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Flower Power Is Coming To The Castro!
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 17, 2011
The Castro/Upper Market Community Benefit District (CBD) has launched a fundraising campaign to raise money in order to install hanging flower baskets. The kickoff date was March 12 with a brief ceremony at 2 p.m. At the kickoff was the unveiling of two hanging flower baskets from the light pole...
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GAPA Holds 22nd Annual Awards Banquet
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 10, 2011
The Gay Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) held their annual banquet at Empress of China restaurant. It was an opportunity for members and supporters of GAPA to witness some excellent talent and award some outstanding people in the API community. “This past year has been a great one for GAPA, filled with...
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Academy of Friends Presented Voyeuristic Oscar Fundraiser
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: March 3, 2011
Hi simply hi from Tinseltown North from your intrepid reportress Sister Dana! Kissy kissy to The Academy of Friends for throwing a fabulous Oscar party and fundraiser, “Voyeur: It’s Always Safe to Watch,” for ten worthy AIDS-related charities. The 31st annual fundraiser helped support AIDS Legal Referral Panel; Asian &...
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Transgender Law Center Discusses Civil Rights at Reception
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 3, 2011
The Transgender Law Center invited supportive attorneys, other legal professionals, and interested parties to attend a reception in support of transgender rights. At this reception on Feb. 24 at Seyfarth Shaw, 20th floor - JP Morgan Chase conference room, people learned more about opportunities to support the Transgender Law Center’s...
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Activists Celebrate Obama Refusal To Defend DOMA
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 3, 2011
When the Obama administration said last Wednesday it would no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in court, a sudden, last minute rally came together in Harvey Milk Plaza with a small but spirited group of celebrants. The 1996 measure prohibits the federal government from recognizing same-sex unions....
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The Lyon-Martin Academy Awards Benefit Party
By Rink Published: March 3, 2011
Glamour and Caring at Trigger Some of the glamour on the Academy Award’s red carpet was matched, but with a unique San Francisco edge, and with lesbian chic flavoring at the Lyon-Martin Clinic Academy Awards benefit at the Trigger Lounge in the Castro on Feb. 27. The event drew a...
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Dignity Honors Three Equality Activists
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 24, 2011
The nation’s Roman Catholic bishops recently sent a letter to the new Congress detailing their opposition to LGBT rights. The bishops stated their opposition to marriage equality, same-gender partner benefits, and declared their rejection of homosexuality in the same breath as their rejection of pornography. So on Feb. 19, local...
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SF DPH Rolls out the “Female” Condom
By Rink Published: February 24, 2011
While a sit-in at City Hall by Marriage Equality that protested the continued second class citizenship of lesbians and gays was happening, the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) held a press conference on Valentine’s Day, Feb.14 at Civic Center. The department’s gunmetal gray education school bus was parked...
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Immune Enhancement Project Celebrates Chinese New Year
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 24, 2011
The Immune Enhancement Project (IEP) held their annual Chinese New Year party on Feb. 17 at their headquarters on 3450 16th Street. They officially acknowledged it was the Year of the Rabbit, where according to Chinese tradition, the Rabbit brings a year in which you can catch your breath and...
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LGBT Community Center Kicks Off Soiree 9
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 24, 2011
The public was invited to a reception kicking off the ninth anniversary party of The LGBT Community Center, “Soiree 9: La Dolce Vita.” Held on Feb. 17 at the Archibald/Ehrenberg Rehabilitation Terrain Park, California Pacific Medical Center Davies Campus, the Center offered information about the upcoming annual gala to be...
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Demonstrators for Equality Hold Valentine’s Day Civil Disobedience
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 17, 2011
18 Detained And Released
On Valentine’s Day, proponents for same-sex marriage and the repeal of Proposition 8 that bans it staged a show of unity in gathering at San Francisco City Hall with a handful of clergy members and city leaders. Some wore badges stating, “Love Warriors.” Demonstrators marched...
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The Community Pulls Together for Castro Fire Victims
By Rink Published: February 17, 2011
There was a community fundraising event to benefit the victims of the fires in the Castro earlier in the month at the Lookout Bar on Feb.15 that drew a cross section of local LGBT neighbors and friends to the trendy hot spot. Guests got a cold chill that was not...
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A Proud Thank You, Honors, and a Farewell at The Equality California Dinner at SF City Hall
By Rink Published: February 17, 2011
The Equality California (EQCA) Dinner at San Francisco City Hall on Feb. 12 was a resounding success, where more than 600 community leaders, activists, elected officials, labor, and corporate leaders packed into multiple spaces where they could see the evocative festivities or view them on wide screen televisions. It was...
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GLAAD Promotes Matchmaking and Positive Image
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 17, 2011
GLAAD (the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) offered a romantic evening for singles, couples, and everyone in between at Supperclub on Feb. 9. Queers got to mix and mingle at this elegant pre-Valentine’s Day affair, “Love Is in the Air,” with friends from GLAAD and their event partner, Distinguished...
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Over the Top Drag Queens Perform to Benefit Harvey Milk Academy
By Rink Published: February 17, 2011
Some of San Francisco’s most over-the-top drag queens performed at the Harvey Milk Academy in the Castro to benefit the academy’s Parent Faculty Club on Feb. 11. The “adults only” designation on the show promotional postcards and underground Muni signs were an accurate warning that the show was more of...
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Riding While Black 1955, Walking While Black 1999: An Historic Moment in Civil Rights Remembered
By Rink Published: February 17, 2011
Small children and teenagers dressed for church joined their families, political activists, and academics to see and hear civil rights pioneer Claudette Colvin at San Francisco’s Main Library on Feb. 6 as part of Black History Month. Colvin was a 15-year-old student on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in 1955 who...
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Suspicious Castro Fires Trouble Investigators
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 10, 2011
The Castro district has been experiencing a series of suspicious fires. The last one occurred on 18th Street where a piece of plastic was torched in the doorway. This one follows three other fires in the same area on the night of Feb. 3, when there were at least three...
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David Kato Memorial Fills Harvey Milk Plaza with Activists
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 10, 2011
David Kato, a Ugandan activist (born 1964) who served as advocacy officer for Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG), was a leading opponent of the “Anti-Homosexuality Bill” - a legislative proposal designed to criminalize any advocacy or support for LGBT people, and to punish homosexual conduct with the death penalty under certain...
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National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day March and Rally
By Rink Published: February 10, 2011
More than a hundred people rallied at San Francisco City Hall and marched to the Center for African American Culture in the Fillmore District for a program to commemorate National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Feb. 7. Coordinated by Health Educator with the HIV Prevention Section of the Department of...
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The Two Spirits Native American Tribute to Leaders
By Rink Published: February 10, 2011
Two worthy leaders of the Bay Area American Indian Two-Spirits (BAAITS) group received tributes from their fellow members on Jan. 29 at the LGBT Center. Chicksaw Indian Miko Thomas, who performs in drag as the outrageous Landa Lakes, and Chippewa Indian Derek Smith were stepping aside as group co-chairs after...
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The AEF/BCEF Volunteer Appreciation Party
By Rink Published: February 10, 2011
The AIDS Emergency Fund (AEF) and the Breast Cancer Emergency Fund (BCEF) presented a volunteer appreciation party at Yerba Buena Bowl on Feb. 7 for a couple dozen people who dedicated themselves to the charities throughout the year. The AEF and BCEF provide life-saving financial support and measurably improve their...
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Lyon-Martin Clinic Nears First Fundraising â€Benchmark’
By Paul E. Pratt Published: February 3, 2011
Historic Clinic Serving Lesbian/ Transgender Communities Still Faces Financial Crisis
By all accounts, the outpouring of financial support to save Lyon-Martin Health Services is nearly unprecedented. Since publicly announcing financial crisis might force the community clinic’s immediate closure, grassroots fundraising efforts have secured over $200,000 - more than 40-percent...
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Silent Voices: East Bay School Board Tackles Anti-Gay Bullying
Published: February 3, 2011
By Ed Ness“Silent Voices.” It’s a term used to identify LGBT students who do not feel able to speak up for themselves in school. These at-risk youth were the focus of a hearing at the San Ramon Valley Unified School Board meeting Tuesday night, Jan. 25, in Danville. More than...
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Deep In Debt, Lyon-Martin Remains Open (for Now)
By Paul E. Pratt Published: January 27, 2011
Historic Clinic Serving Trans, Lesbian Communities Needs $500K Lyon-Martin Health Services has received a temporary reprieve. Contrary to early reports, the historic women’s and LGBT health care provider will not cease operation this week. Though the clinic still faces potentially catastrophic financial hardship, representatives now call its Board of Directors’ weekend...
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PAWS Grand Opening Party in the Mission
By Rink Published: January 27, 2011
The biggest news in 23 years for Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) happened on Jan. 22 in the Mission. An enormous white edifice took supporters’ breath away when they approached the grand opening party, and many stopped and stared while thinking of the seven past other less suitable locations of...
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The Sisters Receive and Distribute 2,500 Safety Packets
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 27, 2011
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. held another in their series of safety packet distribution events as part of their ongoing “Stop the Violence” campaign. In the latest dispensing, they shared a meet and greet with newly elected Supervisor Scott Wiener, who acted as guest bartender at the Mix. Stolichnaya...
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GAPA Election Meeting Forges a New Foundation
By Rink Published: January 27, 2011
Building self esteem and camaraderie is what the Gay Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) is about, and the large turnout of members that included many young men was an indication that the organization is healthy and growing. The group’s usual power play between social and political interests has been especially strong...
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End of an Icon: Edge Bar Closes Doors Permanently
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 20, 2011
The popular Edge gay bar at 4149 18th Street (between Castro and Collingwood Streets) issued its final “last call” on Jan. 16, when the doors closed at that site forever. The Edge has a 19-year history of philanthropy and community partnerships, so the bar’s closing will be a huge loss. The...
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Grand Opening of First GLBT Museum Draws Hundreds
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 20, 2011
The GLBT Historical Society opened its doors on Jan. 13 to its GLBT History Museum, the first of its kind in America. After the special pre-grand opening for donors and volunteers, a line formed around the block of citizens anxious to explore the inside for the first time. With the...
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The Power of One Party at Trigger
By Rink Published: January 20, 2011
Co-hosts John Weber and Donald Cooper presented a wondrous Charity tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr. at Trigger on Jan. 15 that brought out the best of the LGBT community and its supporters. Trigger is one of the few bars or lounges in the Castro that features employees who are...
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NCLR Launches Photo Campaign
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 20, 2011
NCLR is asking: “Want to be in a promo for the National Center for Lesbian Rights?” NCLR is proud to launch the “I am NCLR ...” photo campaign, designed to reflect and showcase their clients and supporters who fight alongside them every day to ensure that every lesbian, gay, bisexual,...
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Rafael Mandelman Thank You Party
By Rink Published: January 13, 2011
The Black Bird Bar was the intense vortex for the volunteers, staff, and supporters of District 8 candidate Rafael Mandelman on Jan. 6. A crush of earthy under-30 year-olds made up the majority of the party that consumed over one third of the space, with no one more than two...
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New SF Supes Take The Oath at City Hall
By Rink Published: January 13, 2011
Four new supervisors, the equivalent of city council members in other locales, were sworn in at San Francisco City Hall on Jan. 8 with low key ceremony with some emotion. Scott Wiener, Jane Kim, Malia Cohen, Carmen Chu, and Mike Farrell were sworn in for four-year terms. The first to...
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First GLBT History Museum In US Announces Grand Opening
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 13, 2011
Internationally renowned as a center for LGBT culture, San Francisco will welcome yet another groundbreaking queer institution, the GLBT History Museum. A project of the GLBT Historical Society, an archives and research center established in 1985, the new museum will be the first of its kind in the United States....
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New Traction for Dufty, Gay Mayoral Candidate
By Rink Published: January 6, 2011
Bevan Dufty’s mayoral campaign’s fans and supporters squeezed into Lime on Dec. 30 for a year-end party. Dynamic commissioner and promoter Audrey Joseph mingled wih Dufty campaign manager energetic Bob Mitchitarian, Ike Shehadeh of Ike’s, and long time activist Tim Wolfred. Dufty’s child Sidney, now favoring a short haircut, t-shirt,...
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The Tenderloin Tessie Christmas Day Dinner
By Rink Published: January 6, 2011
A Friendly Dinner on a Rainy Christmas
There was a heavy rain on Christmas Day Dec. 25, and that deterred some diners who usually attend the annual Tenderloin Tessie Holiday Dinner at the First Unitarian Church. The count from board president and volunteer coordinator Michael Gagne was 865, a...
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Sisters Distribute Grants To Worthy Organizations
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 6, 2011
A series of angry speakers mounted a replica of the soap box that Harvey Milk stood on during his campaign stops on Dec. 18 in front of 575 Castro Street, the site of Milk’s Castro Camera store. The themes of their speeches included denouncing of the voter-approved Sit/Lie Law, which...
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Rainbow World Fund Tree Gives Hope
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 23, 2010
The World Tree of Hope is a 20-foot fir pine holiday tree in the Rotunda of San Francisco City Hall decorated with thousands of white origami cranes, each containing written notes of hope and peace from children and individuals from around the world, as well as over a thousand gold...
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BBE Kwanzaa Celebration & Awards
By Rink Published: December 23, 2010
The warmth of the holiday season extended to include the Kwanzaa celebration at the LGBT Center on Dec.18. It was sponsored by Black Brothers Esteem (BBE), a strong and vital part of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. The presence of the foundation’s new executive director Neil Giuliano, and its VP...
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Positive Resource Center Appreciation Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 23, 2010
Positive Resource Center held their annual Stakeholder and Volunteer Appreciation Reception on Dec. 14 at the JW Marriott’s Level III Gallery. 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...
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Michael Brandon Leather Benefit Party at the Edge
By Rink Published: December 23, 2010
There could not be much more of a contrast between the two groups of volunteers at Michael Brandon’s Leather Party benefit for Project Open Hand at the Edge Bar on Dec. 17. Open Hand’s volunteers who sold raffle tickets at the party looked like the casual well-covered bar-hoppers that pack...
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Project Open Hand: 25 Yrs of Meals with Love
By Rink Published: December 23, 2010
Project Open Hand commemorated 25 years of meals with love at the Fairmont Hotel on Dec. 15, and hundreds of well dressed people enjoyed a gala reception followed by luncheon in the hotel ballroom. Open Hand provides meals to people with HIV/AIDS, breast cancer and other critical illnesses, and seniors....
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The Censorship Forum and Emergency Screening at SF Camerawork
By Rink Published: December 16, 2010
Another salvo was released in the culture wars that started with the National Education Association’s (NEA) funding of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe’s work in the late 1980s. The thought-provoking self portrait of Mapplethorpe with the protruding bullwhip was published on a show invitation to San Francisco’s 80 Langton Street Gallery in...
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City Hall Bathed in Red and Green. Why Not the Rainbow in June?
Published: December 16, 2010
An Open Letter to the People of San FranciscoDear Editor: Like many I'm sure, I was heart-warmed to see City Hall bathed in orange light around the time of Halloween (and a sporting event) and, more recently, to see the pretty greens and reds of the holiday season. Some years...
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Horizons Distributes Grants To Worthy Organizations
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 16, 2010
The 30th anniversary fundraising gala of Horizons Foundation held on Oct. 2 at the Westin San Francisco Market Street was a huge success. Therefore it was time to distribute the grants to qualified organizations on Dec. 9 at the Wyndham Parc 55 Hotel. Program Committee Chair Cecilia Chung introduced Horizons...
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Vodkas, Latkes, and Hanukkah Celebrated On World AIDS Day
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 9, 2010
The renowned interior designer Jonathan Adler graciously offered to host an LGBT Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 1, which was also World AIDS Day. The public was invited to celebrate Hanukkah with free-flowing vodkas by Stoli and Absolut, light dinner including latkes with sour cream, and schmoozing in Adler’s home design...
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Light In The Grove On Eve Of World AIDS Day
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 9, 2010
The first ever “Light in the Grove, an Evening of Remembrance and Renewal” was a very special night on Nov. 30, at the National AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park, when attendees commemorated the 20th anniversary of the passage by Congress of the Ryan White CARE Act at a...
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Milk Club Holds Milk/Moscone 32nd Annual Candlelight Memorial.
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 2, 2010
Thirty-two years ago to the day, Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone were assassinated by the murderous Supervisor Dan White. So every year on Nov. 27 the LGBT and queer-friendly community gathers in the plaza named after Milk to commemorate the historic day and remind ourselves to carry on...
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New Revelations About Milk/Moscone Murders
By Rink Published: November 25, 2010
Author Mike Weiss introduced his updated book Double Play:The Hidden Passions Behind the Double Assassination of George Moscone and Harvey Milk at the Main Library on Nov. 17. A crowd of over 80 people filled the Hispanic Room to hear Weiss speak about his daily visits to assassin Dan White’s...
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Under One Roof Opens Shopping Season with Pre-Holiday Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 25, 2010
Under One Roof held their annual pre-holiday party on Nov. 18 at the store in the Castro to kick off the holiday shopping season. Since 1990, through Under One Roof, community volunteers, donors, staff, sponsors, and merchant supporters have joined forces to fundraise in support of the common cause, supporting...
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SF AIDS Foundation Appoints New Chief
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 25, 2010
San Francisco AIDS Foundation has appointed Neil Giuliano its new chief executive, effective December 13. Giuliano brings more than three decades of executive leadership experience to the foundation, most recently as president of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) and executive producer of GLAAD Media Awards. San Francisco AIDS...
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Open Hand Is There for Thanksgiving
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 25, 2010
The Thanksgiving holidays are an especially busy time at Project Open Hand, a local non-profit food relief organization that prepares and delivers food to seniors, people living with HIV and breast cancer, and the homebound critically ill. Project Open Hand chefs slow roast a whopping 3,200 pounds of turkey and season...
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Lyon-Martin Appoints Interim Executive Director
Published: November 18, 2010
The Lyon-Martin Health Services board of directors announced on Nov. 16 that Dawn Harbatkin, MD, Lyon-Martin’s medical director, has been appointed interim director, while the board engages in a nationwide search for the next executive director. Former Executive Director Teri McGinnis resigned on Nov. 15.During McGinnis’ six years with the...
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Real Bad XXII Fundraising Party Distributes Checks To Charities
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 18, 2010
Grass Roots Gay Rights West (GRGR/West), producers of the annual REAL BAD fundraising party that follows San Francisco’s world-renowned Folsom Street Fair, held a beneficiary check presentation on Nov. 11 in the City Hall offices of Supervisor Bevan Dufty. Despite a difficult economic backdrop, REAL BAD XXII raised an unprecedented...
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AMFAR Holds 12th Annual Gala Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 18, 2010
AmfAR, the Foundation for AIDS Research, is one of the world’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. Since 1985, amfAR has invested more than $307 million in its programs and has awarded grants to...
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Jennifer Holliday Speaks at Black Coalition on AIDS Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 18, 2010
Wells Fargo presented a special reception with Tony and Grammy award winning singer/ actress Jennifer Holliday on Nov. 11 to benefit the Black Coalition on AIDS. The cocktail party was held at the Museum of African Diaspora. W. Omar Karriem gave opening remarks, thanking everyone for attending and explaining the agency’s...
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Chuck And Rainbow World Fund Go Day-Glo
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 18, 2010
Chuck Sanderson, a big fan of the Rainbow World Fund, celebrated his Big 5-0 at Trigger bar to help raise funds for his charity. Rainbow World Fund (RWF) is an all-volunteer international humanitarian service agency based in the LGBT and friends community. RWF’s mission is to promote LGBT philanthropy in...
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Project Inform Offers an Evening Of Hope
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 11, 2010
“Evening of Hope - A Night of Life Saving Fashion” marked a special occasion for Project Inform. This year they celebrated their 25th anniversary as an organization on Oct. 27 at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. Project Inform represents HIV-positive people in the development of treatments and a cure;...
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Jane Warner Memorial Plaza Dedicated
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 11, 2010
During a special ceremony on Nov.7, officials dedicated the pedestrian plaza at 17th and Castro Streets as Jane Warner Plaza. The area was named after the late San Francisco Patrol Special Police Officer Jane Warner, who consistently patrolled the Castro district for 18 years. She died too soon on May...
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Safety Groups Distribute Whistles
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 4, 2010
Castrol Community on Patrol (CCOP), Triangle Martial Arts Associates (TMAA), and The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc., held a press conference and whistle distribution event in Jane Warner Plaza at 17th Street on Oct. 30. Plainclothes volunteers and queer nuns held big placards stating “STOP THE VIOLENCE; STOP HATE!” and...
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GLBT Historical Society Celebrates Silver Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 4, 2010
The list of honored guests at the Oct. 28 gala for the GLBT Historical Society’s 25th anniversary was impressive if not inspirational. Twenty-five outstanding LGBT citizens were present to represent the 25 years of the Historical Society. Attending (in alphabetical order) were Roberta Achtenberg: pioneering attorney affiliated with the Lesbian Rights...
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Being Safe in San Francisco on Halloween
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 28, 2010
Do You Know How To Blow?
It has been a truly whistle-stop journey from six short weeks ago when The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. reached out for help in resurrecting the 1970’s “Stop The Violence” campaign.
 “We needed some practical information and self-defense tips to bring...
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Rafael Mandelman for District 8 Supervisor
Published: October 28, 2010
Rafael Mandelman in District 8District 8. The Castro. Harvey Milk’s old seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. This year our country is facing monumental problems and a possibly devastating outcome on the Washington stage in next week’s election. But like they say, all politics is local. San Francisco...
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Rebecca Kaplan Could Be Oakland’s Openly Lesbian Mayor
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 28, 2010
Rebecca Kaplan, candidate for Oakland mayor, came to the home of Julius Turman in San Francisco on Oct. 26 to talk about her exciting and historic campaign. Endorsed by numerous community leaders and newspapers, Kaplan has been an openly lesbian politician for years, most recently with a seat on the...
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Serious Gas Leak In The Castro Shuts Down Neighborhood
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 28, 2010
Police had to close several streets in the heart of the Castro district at approximately 1 pm on Oct. 21 because of a serious natural gas leak. All businesses were evacuated near the site of the intersection of Castro and 18th Streets, in front of the Walgreens store. Residents were also...
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Transgender Law Center Celebrates 8 Years
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 28, 2010
The Transgender Law Center (TLC) held its 8th anniversary celebration and awards ceremony at the End Up on Oct. 22. TLC provides legal services and leadership development opportunities in California while also advocating for policies that will benefit the transgender community locally, throughout the state, and across the nation. The Mistress...
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Queens Are Wild At Stop AIDS Benefit
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 28, 2010
The Stop AIDS Project had their annual “Queens are Wild - A Casino Party” event at club Mezzanine on Oct. 22. “I love when I’m part of an event that raises awareness and money for a great cause - in the most fun and entertaining way,” said hostess Juanita More....
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AIDS Legal Referral Panel Celebrates 27 Years of Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 28, 2010
AIDS Legal Referral Panel (ALRP) provides free and low-cost legal services to people with HIV/AIDS in the San Francisco Bay Area. ALRP is the only institution in the San Francisco Bay Area whose entire mission is dedicated to providing free and low-cost legal assistance and education on virtually any civil...
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The Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club Honors Activists in a Futuristic Setting
By Rink Published: October 21, 2010
The Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club honored their favorite activists at their Fall Awards Ceremony on Oct. 14 at the Infusion Lounge, which is around the corner from the Powel and Market cable car turnaround. The Alice Club had its start in the mid-1970s at the Society of Individual...
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Castro Country Club Strives to Stay Open
By Rink Published: October 21, 2010
The Castro Country Club filled a room at Holy Redeemer Church on Oct. 16 for their Harvest Festival Banquet with more than 150 people for a benefit for the club. Controversy was averted when it was made clear that no room rent was paid for the space. The Castro Country...
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Shanti Holds 36th Annual Gala
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 21, 2010
Shanti’s 36th annual benefit, “Compassion Is Universal,” was held on Oct. 13 at Hotel Nikko. Founded in 1974 by Dr. Charlie Garfield at the UCSF Cancer Institute, Shanti was one of the first-ever volunteer organizations to work with terminally ill individuals, and later became one of the very first community-based...
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Honoring Latino Heritage
By Rink Published: October 21, 2010
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom honored community leaders and organizations with Latino Heritage Awards at City Hall on Oct. 12. Numerous LGBT community members were honored, including Barbara Garcia, Deputy Director of Health, at the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH). She was recently named to succeed Mitch Katz, a...
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GLBT Historical Society to Present Unmasked Gala
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 21, 2010
The GLBT Historical Society will celebrate its silver anniversary on Oct. 28 at its annual gala, “Unmasked,” at the Green Room of the San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center at 401 Van Ness Avenue.“Unmasked” will honor 25 people who have made GLBT history. Honored guests include Phyllis Lyon,...
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Open Hand 25 Years Providing Meals With Love to the Community
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 14, 2010
Providing Meals With Love To The Community
It has been a quarter of a century since Project Open Hand opened its doors and started serving its first clients in San Francisco. Twenty-five years later, Project Open Hand continues to provide meals with love to communities in need. This is...
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District 8 Debate Draws Distinctions Between Candidates
By Rink Published: October 14, 2010
The latest in long series of District 8 San Francisco supervisor debates occurred on Oct. 8. The unique feature of this event was that it was at the Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy in the Castro, and the theme was for the candidates to describe how they related to the...
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A Fairly Freaky Castro Street Fair
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 7, 2010
The weather for the 37th annual Castro Street Fair on Oct. 3 was bizarre: misty, warm, cold, hot, windy, blazing hot, really cold – and in that order. So wise fairgoers did the layered look. Less fortunate semi-nudists occasionally suffered during the colder mini-climates. The theme was “Get Your Freak...
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Horizons Celebrates 30 Years
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 7, 2010
Horizons Foundation celebrated its pearl anniversary of 30 years mobilizing and increasing resources for the LGBT movement and organizations that secure the rights, meet the needs, and celebrate the lives of LGBT people. For instance, nearly $600,000 in grants was recently awarded to 40 nonprofit organizations in support of LGBT...
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SFYD Debate Questions Political Leaning of District 8
By Paul E. Pratt Published: September 30, 2010
While questions of MUNI reform, affordable housing and possible plans to build a Trader Joe’s supermarket were expected to mark the Sept. 22 San Francisco Young Democrats debate between District 8 Supervisor candidates, nobody anticipated the discussion would ultimately turn to exactly how liberal and progressive the district is which...
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Folsom Fair Was Fun in the Sun
Published: September 30, 2010
By Master Sister Dana Van IquityDespite extreme heat in the City, thousands flocked to South of Market on Sept. 26 for the annual Folsom Street Fair in their leathers and feathers and rubber and latex and wings and horns and everything else under the sun. The mission of the Folsom...
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Conversations at the Museum of the African Diaspora
By Rink Published: September 30, 2010
The 25th Anniversary Conversations Across Generations “Stirring the Waters, Fanning the Flames” was the first event of the silver anniversary speaker series of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Historical Society (GLBTHS). It was partnered with the Museum of the African Diaspora (MOAD) in a comfortably cool room on...
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Sisters Push New Safety Campaign as Violence Contnues in the Castro
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 23, 2010
On Sept. 16 at approximately 3:15 a.m. as I was strolling the Collingwood area (having changed from my nun’s habit into just a regular guy’s jeans, tee shirt, and jacket), a white guy age 30ish in glasses and a cap approached me to demand money. I replied, “I am not...
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19th Annual Leather Walk and Flag Raising Begins Leather Week
Published: September 23, 2010
By Master Sister Dana Van Iquity, Mama’s NunDespite inclement weather, the 19th annual Leather Walk and 10th annual raising of the Leather Flag took place on Sept. 19, beginning at Harvey Milk Plaza with speeches and awards. This event always signals the official start of Leather Week, heralding the upcoming...
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A Triple Helping of Leslie Jordan for the Castro Country Club
By Rink Published: September 23, 2010
More than 150 supporters of the Castro Country Club converged on Everett Middle School on Sept. 19 to view the film Sordid Lives and enjoy an appearance by talented openly gay stage, film, and TV star Leslie Jordan, who has been performing all week at the Rrazz Room at the...
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API Family Pride Honors LGBT Supportive Families
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 23, 2010
Asian and Pacific Islander Family Pride (API Family Pride) held its 7th annual Family Presentation Banquet with Asian cuisine at Hotel Whitcomb on Sept. 18, themed “Public Recognition of Private Courage.” The event honors API families and organizations who love and support their LGBT members despite sometimes strong social criticism...
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ENDA Rally Ends With Arrests
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 16, 2010
A rally with GetEQUAL, the LGBT Community Center, and other LGBT and allied advocates formed in Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro on Sept. 9 to send a loud and proud message to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi: Congress must pass LGBT employment protections in the form of ENDA now. The...
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Dolores Park Site Of City’s Latest Gay-Bashing
By Paul E. Pratt Published: September 16, 2010
Bay Area Theatre Vet, SFPD Sort Through Post-Attack Confusion Walking home from a date in the Castro during the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 10, Tony Dunlap heard footsteps behind him. As the then 42-year-old Mission resident climbed past Dolores Park, the sound drew closer. Ducking into the...
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Show Tolerance Not Hate Rally Commemorates 9/11
By Rink Published: September 16, 2010
A small but enthusiastic group of activists marked the nine years since the terrorist attacks on 9/11 on the evening of Sept. 11 at Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro for a Show Tolerance and Not Hate Rally. Coordinator and MC Kelly Hart emotionally began the event as the audience...
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SF Pride Withholds Funds to Beneficiaries
Published: September 9, 2010
Pride ED Amy Andre: Pride Has Met Its Contract with Community Partners
By Kylie Minono & Paul E. Pratt
Financial questions continue to mount regarding San Francisco’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Celebration and Parade Committee.
Though SF LGBT Pride distributed checks to beneficiaries at a...
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Benefit Scheduled for Ailing BeBe Sweetbriar
By Paul E. Pratt Published: September 9, 2010
BeBe Sweetbriar’s nonstop schedule finally caught up to her! A prolific local performer involved in a wide array of Bay Area fundraising activities and high-profile staple on the City’s social scene, Sweetbriar is currently hospitalized, recuperating from a severe case of pneumonia.
Suffering from dehydration, exhaustion and other undisclosed...
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Horizons Awards $600,000 In Grants To 40 Organizations
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 9, 2010
$350,000 To Support Marriage Equality In Communities Of Color
Horizons Foundation has announced nearly $600,000 in grants being awarded to non-profit organizations in support of LGBT issues in the Bay Area and throughout California. More than half of the grants – $350,000 – are being awarded as part...
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Choosing Children Is Groundbreaking Documentary
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 9, 2010
Twenty-five years after its premier, the groundbreaking documentary Choosing Children - the first film to explore and chronicle the journey taken by lesbians and gay men to become parents after they came out - will return to the silver screen at the Herbst Theater on Sept. 14 to celebrate its...
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Good Vibes Partners With National Breast Cancer Coalition
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 9, 2010
Good Vibrations, the legendary San Francisco-based retailer, has announced its partnership with the National Breast Cancer Coalition as part of their corporate giving initiative, GiVe. In September and October, Good Vibrations’ customers can show their support for the fight against breast cancer by making a financial gift to the National...
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Sisters Rally Community To “Stop the Violence”
By Paul E. Pratt Published: September 2, 2010
Several hundred residents alarmed by a spate of recent crimes targeting the LGBT community gathered Friday, Aug. 28, in a rally to “Stop the Violence.” Organized by the San Francisco Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence in conjunction with Castro Community on Patrol, the peaceful rally started at Harvey Milk Station (17th/Castro),...
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Mama Holds 10th Annual BCEF Awards Gala
Published: September 2, 2010
By Sister Dana Van Iquity, Mama’s NunIn April 2001, after several years of research and input from the community, AIDS Emergency Fund (AEF) launched a new initiative: Breast Cancer Emergency Fund (BCEF). Modeled on the successful work of AEF in providing assistance to low-income San Franciscans fighting HIV and AIDS,...
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Ammiano Bills Pass California Legislature
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 2, 2010
The California Legislature has passed a number of bills authored by Assemblymember Tom Ammiano (D-SF), and they now head to Governor Arnold Schwarzeneg-ger for final approval. The bills would address the safety of LGBT inmates, improve pedestrian safety, assist immigrants in accessing basic services, and give the Port of San...
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Pride After-Party Presented CheckS And Awards
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 26, 2010
The San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Pride Celebration and Parade Committee threw a party in the Rainbow Room of the SF LGBT Community Center on Aug. 17 to announce award winners and donation gate partner organizations that were to receive checks for their volunteering. Nikki Calma, vice president of...
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San Francisco Commemorates 20 Years of the Ryan White CARE Act
By Rink Published: August 26, 2010
More than 60 legislative aides, caregivers, executive directors, HIV Health Services Planning Council members and clients gathered on San Francisco’s City Hall steps to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Ryan White CARE Act on Aug. 18.Director of the HIV Health Services Planning Council Randy Allgaier acted as the MC....
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Queer Bashing On The Rise In The Gayborhood
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: August 26, 2010
Join The Anti-Hate Violence March In The Castro
This Friday evening, join The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc., The Castro Community On Patrol (CCOP), recent hate crime survivor Zachary Davenport, and all concerned members and friends of the GLBT community for a peaceful procession, anti-violence material distribution, and...
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Project Open Hand Celebrates 25 Yrs
By Rink Published: August 19, 2010
Project Open Hand presented their tenth annual “Dessert First.. A Decade of Delicious” gala at the InterContinental Hotel on Aug. 15, and it was a doubly fine event. First there was the VIP Reception that featured some of Bay Area’s best mixologists competing for the title of “Top Mixologist.” The...
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Tears and Applause in Vienna At Int’l AIDS Conference, Surprise and Questions in SF
By Rink Published: August 19, 2010
The poster advertising a community forum and discussion about the recent Vienna AIDS Conference featured what is popularly known as a Bear Millennium Clone, an idealized handsome young white guy with short hair and a beard, and a plaid Western shirt. No one with that look showed up for the...
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Prop 8 Overturned!
Published: August 5, 2010
In a 138-page opinion released Wednesday afternoon, Aug. 4, Judge Vaughn Walker handed gay and lesbian Californians a complete victory, ruling that the 2008 ballot initiative Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage in California, violated their federal constitutional rights of due process and equal protection. Walker issued a permanent injunction...
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Huge Party in the Castro Celebrates Legal Victory
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 5, 2010
When Judge Walker’s ruling overturned Proposition 8 on Aug. 4, it was time to party in the Castro. Hundreds of celebrants – queers and their straight allies – gathered in Harvey Milk Plaza with their signs, “Marriage is a civil right,” “Everyone deserves the freedom to be marry,” “With liberty...
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Horizons Foundation Celebrates Reaching $20 Million Mark
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 5, 2010
Horizons Foundation held a cocktail party on July 27 at the beautiful hillside home of Dr. Jerry Goldstein and Tom Taylor on Dolores Heights to help celebrate their upcoming 30th anniversary and the gala on October 2. Horizons is a community foundation rooted in and dedicated to the lesbian, gay,...
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The Target is on LGBT Civil Rights
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 5, 2010
Target, the retail giant, just became one of the very first companies to take advantage of the January Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision allowing unlimited corporate cash in elections. And in the process of doing this, Target has contributed over $150,000 towards eliminating queer rights. Best Buy has also given...
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Rainbow World Fund: One Human Family
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 29, 2010
This weekend, Bay Times caught up with Rainbow World Fund’s Executive Director Jeff Cotter at a barbecue in the Castro that the group held for its volunteers. Founded in 2000, Rainbow World Fund (RWF) has helped tens of thousands of the world’s poor. The mission of RWF is to promote...
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Sonoma County Defendants to Pay Clay Greene $650K+
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 29, 2010
On July 23, Clay Greene and the estate of Harold Scull, Greene’s deceased partner of 20 years, reached a settlement resolving their lawsuit against the County of Sonoma and other defendants. Greene and Scull’s estate will receive well over a half a million dollars - a total of $653,000 –...
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HIV Town Hall Forum for Supervisor Candidates77
By Rink Published: July 29, 2010
The AIDS Housing Alliance/SF and SF4Democracy presented a 2010 Board of Supervisors Candidates HIV Community Listening Session entitled “A Time to be Heard” at the State Building on Golden Gate Avenue on July 23. AIDS Housing Alliance/SF (AHA) Director Brian Basinger held out tantalizing bait that drew a large number...
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July 23 AIDS Forum with Supervisor Candidates
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 22, 2010
The first-ever forum on HIV/AIDS for candidates to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors will happen Friday, July 23. It will be hosted by Assemblymember Tom Ammiano, San Francisco HIV-positive leaders, and HIV/AIDS organizations. Members of the HIV-positive community, their allies, and supporters are invited to join them 2–5 pm...
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Northern California’s Largest AIDS Fundraiser Drew More than 25,000 Supporters
Published: July 22, 2010
On Sunday, July 18, Northern California’s largest AIDS fundraiser that drew more than 25,000 supporters to Golden Gate Park. Radiant Libby Servais and Alyssa Fox from Wicked sang and inspired the audience....
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Magnet Celebrates Seven Years of Service in the Castro
By Ann Rostow Published: July 15, 2010
Magnet turned seven years old on July 10, so the gay/bisexual men’s health and well being center threw a birthday party. The public was invited to celebrate seven years of swabbing, dancing, and hanging out in the Castro. Magnet Executive Director Steven Gibson opened the event welcoming the room packed with...
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Boston Judge Rules Against Defense of Marriage Act
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 15, 2010
A U.S. judge in Boston, who was nominated to the bench by President Richard Nixon, has ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional because it interferes with the right of a state to define marriage. U.S. District Judge Joseph Tauro on July 8 ruled in favor of...
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Rand Report Shows Legalizing Marijuana Would Make It Much Cheaper
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 15, 2010
Legalizing the production and distribution of marijuana in California could cut the price of the drug by as much as 80 percent and increase consumption, according to a new study by the nonprofit RAND Corporation that examines many issues raised by proposals to legalize marijuana in the state. While the...
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Remembering Gil Block Sadie, Sadie the Rabbi Lady
Published: July 15, 2010
By Gilbert Baker Goldie Glitters had a lovely garden at her flat in the Castro. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence held teas there every Sunday. You had to come dressed as a nun to get in. This was way before the Sisters became a corporation, in fact it was just barely...
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AIDS Walk San Francisco is Coming!
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 15, 2010
It’s a historic moment in HIV/AIDS. The White House announced on July 13 a comprehensive plan for fighting the epidemic within the US borders. This was a watershed moment in the domestic response to HIV/AIDS at a time when many publicly funded programs for prevention, testing, and care are in...
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Red Saturday Demonstration Held Against Violence in The City
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 8, 2010
After the gay bashing, gang violence, and shotgun death over last weekend, a group of demonstrators gathered on July 3 in the 17th and Market plaza to mourn and say, “NO MORE!” to violence in San Francisco. Social networks had been buzzing and flyers about town had been circulating the...
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KQED Presents Local Hero Awards and Screening of The Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 8, 2010
KQED celebrated LGBT Pride Month on June 29 in the Castro Theatre with a special free screening of their award-winning documentary, The Castro. President and CEO John L. Boland and KQED honored six unsung heroes from the queer community, followed by a free screening of The Castro, the 90-minute documentary...
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Sisters Hold Healing Darshan to Deal With Violence
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 8, 2010
After the tragic events of last weekend, The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence decided to form a way for the community to deal with the death and violence. They encouraged people in the Castro district to participate in a Darshan on July 2 as a concerted effort to come together, reflect,...
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Investigations Continue on Pride Parade Skirmish
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 8, 2010
Investigations have been made into a fray between police and parade crowd members at the Pride Parade on June 27. The incident, involving blows being exchanged between both cops and celebrants near the Main Library music stage in the Civic Center, was caught on videotape and has been played on...
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Exuberant Frameline Film Festival Party Thanks Volunteers
By Rink Published: July 8, 2010
In a city not known for its warmth, there were magic moments of surprise when the effervescent Frameline LGBT Film Festival Board Chair Thomas Matson greeted and thanked each of the volunteers as they arrived at San Francisco’s Stud Bar on June 30. The festival hosted a gala volunteer appreciation...
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A 40th Grand Pride In San Francisco
By Rink Published: July 1, 2010
The buildup to the annual LGBT Parade on June 27 was a series of events that included Frameline Festival film screenings, parties, marches, a concert, stage shows, and a brunch and a breakfast.Deep Red, a Israeli short film presented June 24 at the Castro Theatre about a thieving pair of...
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Gang Violence Mars Annual Pink Saturday Celebration in the Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 1, 2010
The annual charity fundraising street party preceding the annual SF Pride Parade known as Pink Saturday was suddenly interrupted and closed down by gang-related gunfire killing one teen and wounding two other people on June 27, approximately 11:30 p.m. in front of the Pottery Barn at Market and Castro Streets....
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The Black Coalition on AIDS Soiree at Rasselas
By Rink Published: July 1, 2010
The Black Coalition on AIDS topped themselves with an informative, fulfilling event in a beautiful setting on June 23. They chose Rasselas Jazz Club and Restaurant in the center of the revived jazz center of San Francisco’s Fillmore District, a traditional welcoming African American area. The Ricardo Scales Quartet provided...
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Senior Pride Celebrated At Castro Senior Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 1, 2010
Openhouse (offering housing, services, and community for LGBT seniors) and Golden Gate Senior Services joined together at the Castro Senior Center for an afternoon of fun at 110 Diamond Street. Castro Senior Center Director Patrick Larkin and Michelle Acedo of Openhouse helped arrange the gathering for queer folks 50 and...
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40 and FABULOUS!
Published: June 24, 2010
It’s All Happening This Pride Weekend!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc.A star-studded lineup including Backstreet Boys, Andy Bell of Erasure, Sharon McNight, and a video greeting from Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi comes together for the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration...
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Tenderloin Health’s Early Summer Sunset Cruise
By Rink Published: June 24, 2010
There was a beautiful sunset on the Bay for the guests on this year’s Tenderloin Health cruise near the Golden Gate on June 17. The Commodore Fume Blanc glided across the water and then returned for a below deck ceremony. It was an exciting change from past year’s penthouse soirees....
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The SF LGBT Community Center’s Pride Party
By Rink Published: June 24, 2010
A Fifth Anniversary Blowout on Four Floors
The Academy of Art University sponsored the San Francisco LGBT Community Center’s fifth annual Pride Party, and they supported The Center in a big way. The Academy’s Executive Vice President of Education and International Admissions/Services Sue Rowley resoundingly declared her honor to...
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Crude Awakening Oil Wrestling at the Tower Records Site
Dying for a Change and the Transition of Elizabeth H. Cobbs
Published: June 24, 2010
By Evelyn C. WhiteFour decades after the Stonewall rebellion, the release of Dying for a Change, a debut novel by San Francisco author Sean Reynolds, has prompted me to reflect on the courage exhibited by a little-known figure in another human rights milestone, Elizabeth H. Cobbs. Born in 1940, Cobbs...
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The Queertopia Queer Youth Prom at the LGBT Center
By Rink Published: June 17, 2010
Hundreds of young people in upscale finery surged from BART, Muni, and their parents’ cars toward the San Francisco LGBT Center on June 11 for Queertopia, the queer youth prom. It was not an unusual sight for this time of year, and then a second glance revealed that the couples...
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COLAGE Celebrates 20 Years: It’s All About The Children
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 17, 2010
For 20 years COLAGE (Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere) has been the only national, youth-driven network of people with a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer parent. They celebrated their 20th anniversary on June 10 at the Hamm’s Building, honoring Kate Kendell, executive director of the National Center for...
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The Sisters, Or Everything You Wanted To Know About the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence....
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 17, 2010
...But Were Afraid To Ask
The Sisters: Die Schwestern is a highly informative documentary shot by German filmmakers about The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc., an international group of LGBT&str8 nuns who specialize in fun and fundraising, not to mention consciousness-raising. Their mission is “to promulgate universal joy and...
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Russian River Resort Won’t Cancel Shirley Q. Liquor Performance
By Kim Corsaro Published: June 17, 2010
On June 18, the weekend when Juneteenth is celebrate across the United States, commemorating the day slaves in Texas learned of the Emancipation Proclamation that freed the slaves and launched this nation on it’s long path to racial healing, drag queen Charles Knipp will take the stage at the Russian...
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Gay Dems Fare Well in Tuesday Election
Published: June 10, 2010
Even though barely one in four voters in San Francisco bothered to cast their ballots in Tuesday’s primary election, it must have been the right 25 percent who went to the polls, as LGBT candidates fared particularly well.In San Francisco, two LGBT candidates – Linda Colfax and Michael Nava –...
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21ST Annual GLAAD Media Awards Presented
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 10, 2010
Recipients for the 21st annual GLAAD Media Awards were announced on June 5 during the gala in the SF Marriott Marquis ballroom. Special honors were given to Cybill Shepherd and Lee Daniels. Other award recipients included Lady Gaga, AARP.com, and the documentary “Ask Not.” Previous awards were presented in New...
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Get Onboard Sunset Cruise For Tenderloin Health
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 10, 2010
Tenderloin Health, a social service agency providing health and housing services to the homeless and residents of the Tenderloin, is celebrating 20 years of service with a sunset cruise on the Bay, Thursday June 17, 5:45 to 9 p.m., leaving from Pier 40 in San Francisco. Guests will sail on...
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NORML Challenges Tehama County Anti-Cultivation Ordinance
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 10, 2010
In a lawsuit supported by California NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), Tehama County patients filed suit on June 4 against a county ordinance that limits their right to grow marijuana at home. The lawsuit, by the law firm of Edie Lerman and J. David Nick of...
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Vote on Tuesday, June 8
By Kim Corsaro Published: June 3, 2010
This Tuesday, June 8, is the California primary. Election officials predict voter turnout will hover at about 35 percent, and despite a deluge of advertising from uber-rich politician wannabes, interest has flagged Still, there are some important issues to be decided, and it matters that as many of us as...
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The High Heel Race Benefits the Castro Country Club
By Rink Published: June 3, 2010
High heels can be difficult for lots of women who are not used to them, and they can be torturous and even dangerous for men who dare to wear them for the first time, which usually happens on Halloween. Even Olympic athletes would hesitate to match TV’s “Glee” star Chris...
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Milk Club Dinner Features Fierce Activist Angela Davis
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 3, 2010
Celebrating over three decades of progressive queer activism, the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club presented “A Fierce Alliance for Justice,” the 32nd anniversary awards dinner on May 27 at Hotel Whitcomb featuring the keynote address by Angela Davis and performance by Tru Bloo. Lining two walls of the ballroom were...
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At Last! The First Harvey Milk Day Joyously Celebrated in The Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 27, 2010
Hundreds gathered in the Castro district on May 22, the officially statewide-recognized birthday of slain supervisor and gay activist Harvey Milk on the Day named after his honor and forever commemorated in California every May 22nd. Starting with a nondenominational/ non-faith blessing in Harvey Milk Plaza and a peaceful demonstration...
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API Wellness Center Bloomed at Galleria
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 27, 2010
The Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center held a festive fundraiser, “Bloom,” at the Galleria Design Center to commemorate the 6th annual National A&PI HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on May 19. The host was Tita Aida, a gorgeous icon in the Asian & Pacific Islander and transgender communities. She wore beautiful...
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Three Days of Events Celebrate First Harvey Milk Day
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 20, 2010
The establishing of a yearly official Harvey Milk Day in California, every May 22, was such a huge victory for LGBT visibility that it takes more than just one day to celebrate it! This will be the first official state day recognizing an out LGBT person. For this reason (and...
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Bevan Dufty Kicks Off Campagin for San Francisco Mayor in 2011
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 20, 2010
Supervisor Bevan Dufty initiated his new campaign headquarters at 1035 Market Street, between 6th and 7th Streets, with a festive fundraising party on May 12 that will qualify him for public financing in the Mayor’s race. Up until May, his self-imposed limit had been $100 per person. Starting May 8,...
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Pride Parties at 40 Years
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: May 20, 2010
San Francisco Pride was honored to have Senator Mark Leno and Kate Kendell, executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, as honorary co-chairs for the Forty and Fabulous Benefit on May 15 at the elegant Contemporary Jewish Museum. This year will be the 40th anniversary of the Pride...
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Pride At Work Holds Queer Labor Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 20, 2010
San Francisco Pride at Work/HAVOQ held their fourth annual fundraiser on May 13 at Dolores Street Community Services with special guest, Assemblymember Tom Ammiano. As a longtime leader in the LGBT community and one of the strongest voices for Labor in elected office, Ammiano is truly revered by many labor...
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People and Dogs Mingled At the PAWS Benefit
By Rink Published: May 20, 2010
It is a tradition since the Gold Rush in San Francisco to intertwine charity fundraising and a fantastic party, and Pets Are Wonderful (PAWS) did that and more at the Palace Hotel Petchitecture party on May 15. The event was centered around the unusual architecture of the dog...
There was an extraordinary gathering of progressives for California State Assemblyman Tom Ammiano’s re-election campaign at the Triple Crown Lounge on May 6. A Who’s Who of the San Francisco Democrats showed up to enjoy stiff drinks and succulent hors d’oeuvres, as they mingled with the politicos they knew, and...
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SF AIDS Foundation Awards Leaders At Banquet
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 13, 2010
Every year at the Leadership Recognition Dinner, San Francisco AIDS Foundation invites community members and allies to join them in commending vanguards in the community’s efforts to end HIV and AIDS. This year’s honorees have all demonstrated remarkable support for the foundation and the community. They were honored at the...
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An LGBT Party to Celebrate a Mexican Victory: Cinco de Mayo at The Center
By Rink Published: May 13, 2010
Children and their families joined Latina and Latino activists and friends to celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the LGBT Center on May 8. The holiday is a commemoration of victory of Mexican forces over the French army at Puebla in 1862, and it is an important milestone in the Mexican...
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NCLR Celebrates 33 Years Of LGBT Legal Advocacy
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 6, 2010
On May Day night, NCLR (National Center for Lesbian Rights) held a 33rd anniversary awards dinner at Marriott Marquis Hotel emceed by out comic Kate Clinton. She introduced veteran lesbian folksinger/ activist Cris Williamson who got everyone to “Sing This Song, Why Don’t You Sing Along?” And we did. It...
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Immune Enhancement Project Holds Annual Open House
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 6, 2010
Celebrating another year of bringing high-quality, accessible, and affordable acupuncture, massage, herbal therapies, traditional Chinese medicine, and other healing arts to the community, the Immune Enhancement Project (IEP) held an open house on April 30 at the headquarters on 3450 16th Street.The goal of IEP is to support the...
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Comic Sandra Bernhard Gives Bliss For Maitri
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 6, 2010
BLISS, Maitri’s signature gala and auction fundraiser, was held at the Golden Gate Club in the Presidio on May 2 with two special guests, actress Sandra Bernhard and celebrity designer Carmen Marc Valvo. Maitri provides compassionate residential care to men and women in need of hospice or 24-hour care, and...
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Fundraiser Raises $$$ for Castro Country Club - To Save The Club That Saves Lives
By Rink Published: April 29, 2010
More than 120 supporters converged on the Castro Country Club to benefit the safe haven for people in recovery for alcohol and drugs on April 24 to save it from a pending sale of the building. It was also a celebration of 27 years since the club was established in...
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The GLAAD Dinner Kickoff Party at Bimma Loft
By Rink Published: April 29, 2010
Bimma Loft is an immense modern furniture showplace and art gallery near the CalTrans Depot. It was the site of a Gay and Lesbians Against Defamation (GLAAD) Dinner Kickoff Party on April 21. Once they were past the check-in, guests saw the perfect party seating for their living spaces -...
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Open Hand Rewards Volunteers
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 29, 2010
Project Open Hand held a festive masquerade party in honor of their hardworking volunteers on April 22 in the Green Room of Herbst Theatre. When volunteers arrived, they checked in with the proper table defining their years of service to Open Hand, starting with 1 to 5, then 6 to...
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Castro Farmers’ Market Is Back In The Neighborhood
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 22, 2010
The Castro Farmers’ Market has returned for its second year, which began with a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 7 and will repeat every Wednesday through Oct. 27. Cafe Flore will provide extra outdoor seating at the market where the fabulous waitress Birdie will be back to provide colorful cocktail...
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LGBT and Union Activists Join To Fight Hornblower Cruises
By Rink Published: April 22, 2010
More than 50 activists from the LGBT and labor communities joined to protest alleged bigotry and anti-union organizing by Hornblower Cruises at Pier 33, the landing for voyages to and from Alcatraz. Members of the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club, Pride at Work, the San Francisco Labor Council, and Local...
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Openhouse Holds 6th Annual Spring Fling
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 22, 2010
Openhouse, working to provide housing, services, and community for LGBT seniors, held their 6th annual Spring Fling fundraiser at Marriott Union Square on a beautiful sunny spring day on April 18. Founded in 1998, Openhouse received entitlement from the City of San Francisco in April 2008 to build at least...
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Pre-Bliss Party Held For Maitri
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 22, 2010
Supervisor Bevan Dufty threw a special Pre-Bliss 2010 reception for Maitri in his City Hall office on April 14. Maitri provides compassionate residential care to men and women living with AIDS in need of hospice or 24-hour care and cultivates the deepest respect and love for life among its residents...
There was a strong presence of lesbian and gay political power at the goodbye party for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission’s (PUC) Laura Spanjian on April 8 at Don Ramon’s Restaurant. Not since the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club’s large meetings during the times of Mayor Willie Brown...
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An Extreme Spectacle with The Sisters
By Rink Published: April 8, 2010
There was a spectacle that was almost indescribable because of its excesses on Easter Sunday in the Castro. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence annual Easter Party in Dolores Park is an annual gift to the community from the Sisters. This year the event was moved to the Eureka Valley Recreation...
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Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet Runs for Congress
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 8, 2010
Stephen Adams, vice president and regional manager of Sterling Bank & Trust, and Equality California Executive Director Geoff Kors hosted a fundraising event for Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet on the 40th floor of the Transamerica Pyramid. Mayor Pougnet is the Democratic candidate challenging Republican Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (Sonny...
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Gay Activist Named to the Library Commission
By Rink Published: April 8, 2010
The San Francisco Library Commission met on April 1 at the Main Library Koret Auditorium, and gay activist Michael Nguyen was introduced to the commission as a newly appointed member. Nguyen is a choreographer and pianist, and he is the partner of renowned former ambassador James Hormel. Nguyen and Hormel...
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Soiree 8 Gala Offers Evening of Best Nightlife for Revelers
Published: April 8, 2010
While the number eight carries some baggage for California same-sex marriage advocates, the San Francisco LGBT Community Center is reclaiming the iconic number as it celebrates its eight year anniversary with “Soiree 8,” a gala benefit for the Center. Guests are invited to indulge in decadent foods from San Francisco’s...
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Sisters Suggest You Witness Easter Thru The Looking Glass
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: April 1, 2010
“We can’t wait; we can’t wait, for this VERY important date!” says Sister White Rabbit in the Right Habit. “This mad party will be curiouser and curiouser,” comments Sister Alice Malice Toward Nun. “Twinkle, twinkle little bat, this is the party you’d rather be at,” attests Sister Maude Hatter.
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MCC Church’s Big Gay Tupperware Party Just One Way to Mark 40 Years
By Rink Published: April 1, 2010
Blindingly bright colors were the dominant theme for the Big Gay Tupperware Party at the Castro’s MCC Church on March 27. The dazzling event flyer suggested that guests and sale volunteers “Come dressed as your favorite Tupperware Lady.” Volunteers Lynn Jordan, Carolyn “Fifi” Eidson, Kristine Poggioli, Robert “Eva Lincarnate” Miller,...
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Gay-Friendly Archbishop Welcomed in the Castro
By Rink Published: April 1, 2010
There was a unique celebration of Palm Sunday on March 27 at the Harvey Milk Library in the Castro. Rev. Diana Wheeler of San Francisco’s Night Ministry coordinated the event that was presided over by the gay-friendly primate of the Anglican Church in Central America and the bishop of El...
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RWF Announces Relief Efforts
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 1, 2010
Volunteers, supporters, and friends of Rainbow World Fund (an international aid and relief organization located in the Castro and based in the LGBT and friend’s community) gathered together for an afternoon of conversation, dinner, and reminiscing at the organization’s annual appreciation party in the Castro on March 28. Among the...
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Time to Queer the Census
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 25, 2010
The “All Out for the Count” 2010 Census campaign has come to the LGBT community on the West Coast and includes Juneau, Anchorage, Portland, Seattle, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, and Los Angeles. The campaign is part of the largest civic outreach and awareness campaign in American history,...
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IGLHRC Celebrates 20 Years of Fighting For Human Rights Around the Globe
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 25, 2010
On its 20th anniversary, the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC) dedicated its annual signature fundraiser, “A Celebration of Courage,” to marking the past two decades of activism for LGBT equality. IGLHRC monitors, documents, and responds to human rights violations and supports domestic, regional, and transnational human rights...
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AEF, BCEF Move to New SOMA Digs
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 18, 2010
Every Penny Counts Campaign Continues   AIDS Emergency Fund and Breast Cancer Emergency Fund have moved from their old vermin-infested headquarters to a spacious loft on a tiny side street just South of Market on 12 Grace Street near 10th and Mission. The final move occurred on the same day...
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International Women’s Day Celebration at the Main Library
By Rink Published: March 18, 2010
Poet Laureate Diane DiPrima said that she was surprised and pleased that all of the women writers that she invited as host to the Main Library for an International Woman’s Day celebration on March 9 agreed to participate. The Main Library’s Joan Jasper was the initial greeter, and she welcomed...
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Academy of Friends Held a Fierce Oscar Party!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: March 11, 2010
Hi simply hi from your intrepid reportress Sissy Dana here in Tinseltown North for Oscar season with all the dish! Academy of Friends truly went “Behind the Seams” in their sensational “Salute to Fashion in Film” Oscar fundraiser on March 7 at the Festival Pavilion of Fort Mason Center. It’s...
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Celebrating 44 Years of Service by Leather Alliance
By Rink Published: March 11, 2010
The Bay Area Leather Alliance presented a splendid Leather Bound Weekend March 5-7. The March 5 kickoff dinner at the Hotel Whitcomb set theA stage for a celebration of leather, motorcycle clubs, and fetishes. Community awards were bestowed upon worthy individuals and groups, and tables full of guests loudly applauded...
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Project 1138 - New Web Site Launched
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 11, 2010
Equality Forum, a national and international GLBT civil rights organization, has launched a Project 1138 Web site, (www.Project1138.com) along with Facebook and Twitter pages.Project 1138 increases awareness of the 1,138 federal marital benefits and protections denied to same-sex couples as the result of marriage inequality.How did it originate? In January...
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HUD Officials in SF Discuss Housing Discrimination
By Rink Published: March 4, 2010
More than 120 people gathered in the San Francisco LGBT Center’s Rainbow Room on March 1 for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)Town Hall Meeting on housing discrimination against the LGBT community.The attentive audience was drawn by the news that the HUD bureaucrats would be traveling to...
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BALIF Celebrates 30 Years Fighting For LGBT Equality
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 4, 2010
BALIF (Bay Area Lawyers for Individual Freedom) commemorated its pearl anniversary with an awards dinner held on Feb. 26 at the Westin St. Francis hotel. Symbolizing 30 years, a string of pearls was at the centerpiece of each table. The emcee of the night was comic drag queen Coco Peru...
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Changes in Pride Committee Announced
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 25, 2010
The San Francisco Pride Celebration Committee has announced the imminent departure of Deputy Executive Director Brendan Behan. He started with San Francisco Pride in January of 2006 and has served the organization for over four years, managing the organization’s communications, outreach, educational initiatives, and special event logistics.“Working with Pride over...
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Historical Society Re-Launches Passionate Struggle Archives
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 18, 2010
Since 1985, the GLBT Historical Society has collected, documented, preserved, and shared the queer community’s rich and varied history. The Society keeps history alive through its archives, exhibits, and programming. The “Passionate Struggle” archives, being part of the GLBT Historical Society, have moved from the temporary Castro location to that...
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National Medical Marijuana Week Has Begun
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 18, 2010
National Medical Marijuana Week started on Feb. 13 and runs through Sunday, Feb. 21. Every year, Medical Marijuana Week focuses public attention on the need for safe access to medical marijuana.Americans for Safe Access (ASA) is the largest national member-based organization of patients, medical professionals, scientists, and concerned citizens promoting...
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Freedom To Marry Day at San Francisco City Hall Affirms Marriage Equality
By Rink Published: February 18, 2010
Same sex couples, some already married and others seeking to marry, gathered at San Francisco’s City Hall on Feb 12 for the National Freedom To Marry Day ceremonies. There was a moment for speeches in the Light Court, led by MC Tawal Panyacosit, Director of API Equality of Northern California....
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EQCA Equality Awards Dinner Held in City Hall
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 18, 2010
Three great, straight allies in the fight for equal marriage rights were honored on Feb. 13 during the 2010 San Francisco Equality Awards held in the City Hall Rotunda by Equality California. California Supreme Court Justice Carlos R. Moreno received the Equality & Justice Award. Julia and Sam Thoron received...
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Countering Another Gay Sex Panic
By Rink Published: February 18, 2010
There was a panel discussion at the LGBT Center on Feb. 10 to analyze the staph/MRSA infection panic caused by an unfortunate UCSF study two years ago, and to work to deter future gay sex panics. The discussion was entitled “Healthy Gay Men: Messaging: Media & Messes” and the activist...
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Strive To Thrive While Growing Older With HIV
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 11, 2010
Positive Force will present “Survivor Health Wisdom: Strive to Thrive While Growing Older with HIV” on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the San Francisco LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market and Octavia Streets. Join Nelson Vergel, author of Built to Survive, for the latest information on lipoatrophy, combating premature aging,...
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Beauty, Glamour and Politics At the GAPA Annual Banquet
By Rink Published: February 11, 2010
The Gay Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) presented their annual Lunar New Year Banquet at Chinatown’s Empress of China Restaurant. The Feb. 6 event was year 21 for the banquets that are known as a gay Asian vortex of socializing, fashion, and some politics.GAPA is an all volunteer organization that draws...
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BOOBS Raise $$ for Haiti Emergency Relief
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: February 11, 2010
San Francisco BOOBS are putting together a cabaret fundraiser to help with the Haiti disaster. The trio - Busty, Over-the-Top, Outrageous, Brawds, Singin! (B.O.O.B.S!) - also known as Jessica Coker, Soila Hughes, and Leanne (“Anita Cocktail”) Borghesi - are just three of the performers in “Emergency Cabaret Relief: Haiti,” an...
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Big Money Fills Coffers for Aspiring District 8 Supervisors
By Kim Corsaro Published: February 4, 2010
Candidates for District 8 Supervisor - the seat formerly held by Harvey Milk - have raised more money than all the other candidates in all the other supervisors’ races across San Francisco combined. In reports filed with the San Francisco Ethics Com-mission on Feb. 1, the four primary candidates for...
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The End of Charlie Horse
By Rink Published: February 4, 2010
A exceptionally bland condominium that was built next to the Cinch Bar has caused the shutdown of the Charlie Horse Club that was a huge hit for the half gay and half straight crowds that piled into the bar for the last five years. Outrageously costumed punkish drag queens circled...
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AIDS Housing Alliance/SF Celebrates Six Years Of Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 4, 2010
In honor of its sixth anniversary, AIDS Housing Alliance/SF brought together past and present AHA/SF Desperate Divas as well as fans of honoree Supervisor Bevan Dufty at club Trigger on Jan. 29. This was a fundraiser for AHA/SF as well as for the rebuilding of GHESKIO, the Port au Prince...
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The Pride Town Hall Meeting at the Community Center
By Rink Published: February 4, 2010
The Big 40 is Coming to Pride
The San Francisco Pride Committee presented a Town Hall meeting on Jan. 27 at the LGBT Community Center. A room full of supporters, committee members, staff, volunteers, and lots of new faces heard speakers discuss the upcoming big year 40 of...
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Veteran Civil Rights Activist Larry Brinkin Retires
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 4, 2010
In 1975, Larry Brinkin was an activist in civil rights, anti-war, women’s movements, and the organization Bay Area Gay Liberation. In 1982, he fought back when he filed the first lawsuit in U.S. history seeking domestic partner benefits from an employer. In 1991, he stood next to Mayor Art Agnos...
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A Bright Future and a Banquet for GAPA
By Rink Published: February 4, 2010
The Gay Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) held an election meeting at the API Wellness Center on Polk Street on Jan. 30. The gay Asian activists who care enough about their community to volunteer hours weekly turned out for the high energy gathering, that was serious and also full of laughter....
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Courage Campaign Wins Legal Battle with Prop 8 Supporters
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 28, 2010
The Courage Campaign, a key activist group in the fight for marriage equality, has responded to a cease and desist letter delivered by lawyers for ProtectMarriage.com and announced it will refuse to remove a logo on its Prop 8 Trial Tracker website that parodies the anti-gay ProtectMarriage.com logo. Formerly the...
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AIDS/Lifecycle Kicks Off
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 28, 2010
AIDS/LifeCycle is co-produced by the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and is designed to advance their shared interests to end the pandemic and human suffering caused by AIDS. A special event kicked off on Jan. 24 with the dance club, Mezzanine, filled shoulder-to-shoulder with...
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Fred Pehlps is Coming to The Castro this Week
Published: January 28, 2010
The infamous Rev. Fred Phelps, who travels the world with his family and tiny congregation to picket all things homosexua with large, gaudy hate signs that carry messages like "God Hates Fags" is on his way to San Francisco. Phelps first came to fame when he picketed the funeral of...
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Milk Club Elects Exec Board For 2010, Critical Year For LGBTs
Published: January 28, 2010
The Harvey Milk Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Democratic Club elected its new Executive Board for 2010. “It’s an exciting mix of youthful energy and deep community wisdom that will serve the club exceptionally well in this critical year,” said Co-President Denise D’Anne, a veteran queer political activist. “I’m honored to...
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AIDS Housing Alliance Celebrates 6th Anniversary With Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 28, 2010
AIDS Housing Alliance/SF is inviting the community to help them celebrate six years of helping prevent homelessness for people with HIV/AIDS this Friday, Jan. 29, 6 to 9 p.m. at Trigger, 2344 Market Street. There will be a bevy of beauties from the winning Miss Desperate Diva calendar girls contests. Miss...
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Queer Writers at the Main Library
By Rink Published: January 28, 2010
Physical and Mental Literary Exercises Writer Marvin K. White hosted a writers workshop at the Main Library on Jan. 20. Most of the audience had seen a flyer advertising a LGBT African American Writers Series, but everyone stayed to get involved with the hands-on event. Others saw the writing...
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API Wellness Center Suspends Services in Alameda and San Mateo Counties; SF Still OK
Published: January 28, 2010
Due to ongoing budget strictures caused by the continued decline in both public and private funding sources, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center has been forced to reduce staff and close HIV case management services in San Mateo and Alameda counties. These changes will take effect by January 31, 2010....
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Queer Community Comes Out for Haiti
By Rink Published: January 21, 2010
MC Tony Koester greeted a Haitian Earthquake Relief benefit crowd that filled every seat in the club and guests were lined up against the back wall in the Deco Lounge on Jan. 18. Monday is the usual night for Funny Mondays at the high sexual tension Tenderloin hangout, and Koester...
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Haitian Relief Benefit Set for Jan. 25
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 21, 2010
San Francisco comedians will again take the Deco Lounge stage for Haiti earthquake relief on Jan. 25, following the success of the Jan. 18‑Haiti fundraiser, raising $1,500. These two Monday comedy nights, known as “Funny Mondays at Deco Lounge,” will benefit the Rainbow World Fund’s‑(RWF) earthquake relief efforts in Haiti....
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Mobile Unit Visits Castro To Help Queer The Census
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 21, 2010
The 2010 Census Portrait of America Road Tour has come to the Bay Area. The Road Tour is part of the largest civic outreach and awareness campaign in U.S. history, stopping at more than 800 events nationwide. From local parades and festivals to major sporting events, the Road Tour will...
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Out In The Bay Joins Stitcher Radio
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 21, 2010
Out in the Bay – gay radio from San Francisco - has signed a contract with Stitcher, the leader in on-demand news and talk radio for mobile phones. This action will bring the queer radio show to Stitcher’s global audience. Out in the Bay is a weekly interview program produced...
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SF Gay Men’s Chorus To Visit Prop 8 Strongholds
Published: January 21, 2010
The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) is known for rousing concerts, not political action. But the passage of Proposition 8, which eliminated the right of same-sex couples to marry in California, has inspired the Chorus to bring their music - with a message - to some of the cities...
An effervescent barefoot Joe Cain individually welcomed each of over 100 guests to the 30 year anniversary of the 501 Ashbury Gay Collective on Jan. 17. He carefully eyed their potluck offerings and cautiously warned about the possibility of “difficult people” joining the throng. The collective has been a center...
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Religion vs Sexual Orientation with a Shot of Hypocrisy
By Rink Published: January 21, 2010
More than 100 mostly white gay men squeezed into the Castro’s historic MCC Church for a screening of A Jihad For Love on Jan. 16. The film is a breathtaking landmark documentary about some religious Moslems who are lesbian and gay, and who are balancing their religion and their sexual...
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Lease Signed With Trader Joe’s and Market & Noe Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 14, 2010
A specially formed Facebook group for San Francisco residents who support Trader Joe’s in opening a new location in the Noe Market Center in the Castro neighborhood has announced a lease has just been signed. This is a grassroots group not affiliated with any business, neighborhood association, merchant group, or...
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Specialist in Transgender Medicine Joins Lyon-Martin Staff
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 7, 2010
Fulfilling their commitment to provide quality healthcare to Bay Area women and transgender patients, Lyon-Martin Health Services has proudly announced the addition of Dr. Suegee Tamar-Mattis to their well-respected community clinic. Lyon-Martin has an increasing demand for its services by those who feel underserved, unwelcome or unsafe in traditional medical...
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Horizons Foundation Distributes Checks To 2009 Grantees
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 24, 2009
Horizons Foundation staff, volunteers, and donors all met in the SF LGBT Community Center Ceremonial Room to honor their grantees. Horizons Foundation’s grant-making has charted the changing priorities of the community, providing consistent, much-needed support to key organizations serving the LGBT community. Horizons’ grants are made possible through the contributions...
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Water Main Break Floods Gay Theater Company Mid-Show
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 17, 2009
During a performance of Pearls over Shanghai, at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday night, Dec. 12, the Hypnodrome Theatre was suddenly deluged with two feet of rushing water coming from a ruptured 100-year-old water main break right outside the front door of the theatre. The cast and audience were told to...
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Beer, Sex and Blow at The Eagle
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 17, 2009
Among the many Sunday beer busts at the San Francisco Eagle Tavern, one has a standout name: “Beer, Sex, and BLOW,” which is an annual benefit for The Center for Sex & Culture and BLOW (Beautiful Lips On Whistles). Sunday, Dec. 13 was the fifth annual such event, where the...
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GLAAD Introduces New ED, Raises Big $$
By Rink Published: December 10, 2009
The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) presented a holiday cocktail reception on Dec. 2 that introduced the organization’s new executive director, Jarrett T. Barrios, at the home of GLAAD board member John Stewart II and his partner Ramon Torres. The hosts’ home is beautifully decorated and situated in...
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Tree Of Hope Lighting Ceremony at SF City Hall
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 10, 2009
The Tree of Hope lighting ceremony took place at San Francisco City Hall on Dec. 2 and featured special guests such as actress Sharon Gless, atomic bomb survivor Takahashi Tanemori, and singer Veronica Klaus. Over 5,000 origami cranes hang from the Tree of Hope, which was donated by the Delancey...
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Send a Letter to the President: “Happy Holidays, From Our Family To Yours”
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 10, 2009
The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), Our Family Coalition, and COLAGE (Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere) joined national and regional LGBT family rights groups from around the country on Dec. 7 to launch the “From Our Family to Yours Campaign,” designed to introduce the First Family to thousands...
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MUMC Lights Up The Castro With Holiday Tree Ceremony
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 3, 2009
MUMC (Merchants of Upper Market and Castro) held a festive tree lighting ceremony on Nov. 31 at Castro and 18th Streets with Donna Sachet as the emcee. It featured members from the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, Lesbian and Gay Chorus of San Francisco, MCC choirs, and the Lesbian/Gay Freedom...
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Neighborhood Empowerment Award Goes to Pink Triangle
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 3, 2009
The NEN Awards (Neighborhood Empowerment Network) returned this year to the City Hall Rotunda to celebrate the amazing work by community leaders and organizations in San Francisco’s neighborhoods. Those who came last year to the ceremony summed up the event in one word: “Inspirational!” This year, many of the awards...
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Runner Nears Finish Line In Goal of 12 Marathons
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 3, 2009
On Oct. 18, Devesh Khatu reached the 75% mark in a plan to run 12 marathons in 12 months in 2009 to raise funds for Horizons Foundation. On Dec. 6, Khatu will run the California International Marathon in Sacramento - the last of his 12 marathons in 12 months. To...
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Soiree Sneak Peek Party Held for LGBT Community Center
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: December 3, 2009
Friends and fans of the SF LGBT Community Center joined chanteuse Veronica Klaus and drag stars Miss Rahni and Ambrosia Salad for a champagne reception to kick off the San Francisco LGBT Center’s Soiree 8 gala. Bubbly and bites were served as The Center celebrated the season of sharing in...
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Milk/ Moscone Rally and March Draws Big Crowds
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 3, 2009
November 27 was the 31st anniversary of the brutal assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. The Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club and One Struggle, One Fight commemorated their lives and legacies that night in Harvey Milk Plaza, followed by a candlelight march. A large photograph framed in...
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Gay American Smokeout Targets Queer Community
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 26, 2009
The Great American Smokeout was marked in San Francisco by a rally to focus attention on smoking in the LGBT community, called the GAY American Smokeout, on Nov. 19 in Harvey Milk Plaza. This was a day set aside when LGBT Americans could choose to quit smoking for a day...
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Do You Have A Wish For The World?
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 26, 2009
“I wish for a world where all people are treated with dignity, respect, and equality – no matter who you are or who you love,” Hilary Clinton wishes. Hilary’s wish is one of thousands of wishes etched onto origami cranes and included in a global holiday project, the Tree of...
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Folsom Street Events Donates Mammoth Check to Charities
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 26, 2009
The board of directors of Folsom Street Events on Nov. 17 announced charitable giving in the amount of $333,452. “2009 was a fantastic year for Folsom Street Events and our charities. We are enormously grateful to our sponsors, beneficiaries, beverage partners, and the leather/fetish community for the unyielding support,” Board...
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Maitri Had A Reason To Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 26, 2009
The 1st Annual VIP Holiday Kickoff Celebration was held at the St. Regis Hotel benefiting Maitri. Since 1987, Maitri has been providing hospice and 24-hour care to men and women living with AIDS. In this 15-bed facility, skilled professionals and dedicated volunteers offer nursing and personal care as well as...
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31st Annual Celebration of Craftswomen
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 26, 2009
Thirteen lesbian artists and two bisexual artists will participate in this year’s Women’s Building 31st annual Celebration of Craftswomen, running Nov. 28 and 29 and Dec. 5 and 6 at Herbst Pavilion in Fort Mason Center. The Celebration of Craftswomen is the highlight of the craft fair season. For an...
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Shanti Celebrates 35 Years of Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 19, 2009
This year marks Shanti’s 35th year of providing compassionate services to individuals with life-threatening illnesses, and on Nov. 10, friends gathered together for an anniversary commemoration. This was not just a way to honor the legacy, but also to raise awareness within the community of the immense challenges Shanti clients...
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The Castro Tells the Grim Reaper to Butt Out!
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 19, 2009
LGBT Leaders say NO to tobacco company donations for the Gay American Smokeout
“BUTT OUT! Ending Tobacco Industry Exploitation of the LGBT Community” will mark the Gay American Smokeout by staging a public spectacle to draw attention to the impact of Big Tobacco on the LGBT community, on Nov....
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Real Bad Fundraising Dances Reaches The Million Dollar Mark
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 19, 2009
Grass Roots Gay Rights West (GRGR/West), producers of the annual REAL BAD fundraising party that follows San Francisco’s world-renowned Folsom Street Fair, announced the fundraising results from REAL BAD XXI at a check presentation party on Nov. 12 at the LGBT Community Center. REAL BAD XXI was held on Sunday,...
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Back To Our Roots For Fabulous Fundraising
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 19, 2009
Acclaimed comedian and San Francisco native Margaret Cho joined entertainers and activists at the Transgender Law Center’s 7th anniversary event and awards celebration on Nov. 5 at the End Up. Cho’s standup concert tours and films - “Notorious C.H.O.,” “Revolution,” “Assassin,” and “Beautiful” - tackle sexism, homophobia, organized...
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AmFAR Hosts Annual Fall Gala With Martha Wash
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 12, 2009
The American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), founded by Elizabeth Taylor and Dr. Mathilde Krim, held its 11th annual Fall Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel on Nov. 6, and featured disco diva Martha Wash for entertainment. AmfAR is one of the world’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support...
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REAF Drag Fundraiser Crowns Queen of The Sea
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 12, 2009
Organizer Ken Henderson presented “Rebel and Rouge,” a fabulous party and “Queen of the Sea” drag competition at Hotel Triton and Rouge & Blanc wine bar on Nov. 4 to benefit the Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation. REAF regularly brings together the brightest and kindest stars of stage and screen to raise...
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Rue McClanahan Tribute Cancelled
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 12, 2009
Producer Marc Huestis has regretfully announced that GOLDEN: A GALA TRIBUTE TO RUE MCCLANAHAN, which was to have occurred on Saturday, November 14 has been cancelled due to the recent hospitalization of Ms. McClanahan. “My darlings, I’m just devastated that I am going to have to miss my own tribute...
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Historical Society Holds Unmasked Halloween Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 5, 2009
On Oct. 29, the GLBT Historical Society held their first annual “Unmasked” Halloween Gala (also known as “Tie One On,” because of their request for attendees to wear masks or take advantage of the many complimentary masks available), at the elegant War Memorial Green Room. “I can’t believe it, but after...
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District 8 Supervisor Wannabees Debate at Magnet
By Rink Published: November 5, 2009
Magnet, the Castro’s medical and cultural center in the Castro, hosted a District 8 supervisor debate on Oct. 27. There was anticipation and tension in the air in the space that Mayor Willie Brown described as beautifully designed as the W Hotel, for an election that is happening November, 2010,...
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Defying Inequality Marriage Fundraiser Was Wicked
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 5, 2009
“Defying Inequality” was a same-sex marriage campaign fundraiser held at the Palace of Fine Arts. The title was a pun on the song “Defying Gravity” from the smash musical Wicked - especially apropos because the national touring cast of Wicked was featured in the fundraiser. It was truly an amazing...
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Openhouse Founder Dr. Marcy Adelman Wins Purpose Prize
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 29, 2009
Openhouse founder and board member, Dr. Marcy Adelman, has been awarded a 2009 Purpose Prize, which honors social entrepreneurs over 60 who are using their experience and passion to take on society’s biggest challenges. Dr. Adelman will receive $50,000 for her work to provide housing, services and community programs for...
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Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library Re-Opens
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 29, 2009
San Francisco Public Library celebrated the grand re-opening of a neighborhood treasure, the newly renovated Eureka Valley/ Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library on Oct. 24. Located at 1 Jose Sarria Court, near 16th and Market Streets, the renovation was the latest project in the City’s Branch Library Improvement Program. The...
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Medical Marijuana Laws Eased By Feds - What Does it Mean For San Francisco?
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 22, 2009
Prosecutors were issued a new policy memo on Oct. 19 by the Department of Justice stating that medical marijuana patients and their providers are not be targeted for federal prosecution in the states that allow medical cannabis. A three-page legal memo spells it out that federal prosecutors are not making...
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Project Inform Holds Night Of Lifesaving Fashion
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 22, 2009
This was the second year that Project Inform’s Evening of Hope used “Lifesaving Fashion” as its theme – having designers put together haute couture created almost completely out of condoms or condom wrappers. The posh event was held on Oct. 14 at the Four Seasons Hotel. Michael Allerton, board president,...
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Horizons Foundation’s 29th Anniversary As Kickoff For 30th
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 22, 2009
This year’s 29th anniversary for Horizons Foundation on Oct. 18 at Orson restaurant was actually a kickoff for the big 3-0 coming Oct 2, 2010. The theme was “We Won’t be 29 Forever.” Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Horizons Foundation serves the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community...
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ALRP From the Heart Reception and Auction
By Rink Published: October 22, 2009
AIDS Legal Referral Panel (ALRP) celebrated 26 years at the War Memorial Building’s Green Room with a reception and an auction. It drew large turnout that filled the room with attorneys, legal staffers, and their friends. ALRP has handled over 50,000 legal matters, with the skills of more than 700...
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Mollena Williams Named Ms. SF Leather 2009
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 22, 2009
Coming Back After 10 Years, the Contest Was a Huge Success
After a 10 year absence, the Ms. San Francisco Leather contest returned with a 21st Century energy on Saturday night, Oct. 17, at the Blue Macaw Bistro and Night Club. As the contest advertising said, “The Bitch is...
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Candlelight Vigil Held in Castro to Erase Hate
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 15, 2009
The Reigning Emperor Paul Maka Poole and The Reigning Grand Duke Patrick Noonan organized a candlelight vigil to celebrate the life of Matthew Shepard and to ERASE HATE, as the event was entitled. The vigil began at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 12 in front of the Castro & 18th Street...
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A Successful First Year for Passionate Struggle Exhibit
Published: October 15, 2009
By Joseph AmsterWith the closing of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Historical Society’s Passionate Struggle: Dynamics of San Francisco’s GLBT History exhibit at the corner of 18th and Castro Streets this coming weekend, Executive Director Paul Boneberg says the year-long run was a success for both his organization and the...
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Paypal No Pal Of Medical Marijuana
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 15, 2009
PayPal, the well-known Internet payment company, has told California NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) that it will no longer accept payments to that “type of business” because they accept listing payments from cannabis-recommending physicians. After years of offering free listings to physicians and collectives at their...
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Bette Davis Celebrates 25 Years of Now Voyager
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 8, 2009
This 36th annual Castro Street Fair, if you only saw Barnaby’s World of Wonderment and the wacky Whoville Seuss players, Playland Not at the Beach’s gigantic, living man-eating spider, and Magnet’s naughty postcard personal photo ops, traveling only as far up as the big stage on 18th and Collingwood, then...
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Amy Andre to Head San Francisco Pride
Published: October 8, 2009
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee announc-ed this week that Amy Andre will be the next person to head the organization as its executive director. The announcement concludes a national search that began in March of this year. Andre takes the position following the departure of the organization’s previous...
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Historical Society Honors Jose Sarria, aka Widow Norton
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 8, 2009
Senator Leno Kicks Off New Campaign with Event at Trigger
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 8, 2009
Senator Mark Leno held his campaign for reelection kickoff party at Trigger nightclub on Oct. 1. Supervisor Sophie Maxwell opened the occasion saying, “How can I convey how I feel about this man? I get goose-bumps just thinking about talking about him.” She spoke of “his integrity, his commitment to...
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AIDS Relief Fund for China Dinner
By Rink Published: October 8, 2009
The AIDS Relief Fund for China celebrated their six years of HIV/AIDS work at the Be My Guest Thai Bistro on Oct. 1. Every seat was taken and diners eagerly anticipated ARFC ED Humphrey Wou’s latest videos of grantees and the sumptuous meal.AIDS Relief Fund for China was founded by...
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Agape Fund Turns 40
By Rink Published: October 8, 2009
The Agape Fund for Nonviolent Social Change celebrated its 40 years at a packed party in San Francisco’s Green Room, across from City Hall on Sept.. 24. Founded in 1969 by anti-Viet Nam War activists that included Joan Baez, the fund filled a void of needed money to continue the...
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Manuel Perez Fights For Equality In Difficult District
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 1, 2009
A fundraiser was held in San Francisco for Assemblyman Manuel Perez, who represents the 80th assembly district of parts of Riverside County through the Imperial County, which goes to the Mexico and Arizona borders. The 80th district also includes Palm Springs. This district has traditionally been one of radical rightwing...
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Town Hall Meeting Advances 2010 Prop 8 Repeal
Published: September 24, 2009
By Joseph AmsterActivists backing the effort to rescind Prop 8 in 2010 are moving ahead with their plans and held a series of town hall meetings throughout the state on Saturday, Sept. 19. The organization pushing the effort has adopted the name Restore Equality 2010.The San Francisco meeting was attended...
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Maine’s Marriage Equality Advocates Facing Same Distortions as California
Published: September 24, 2009
By Joseph AmsterWith a Nov. 3, 2009 election looming challenging the right of same-sex marriage, advocates in Maine are facing the same distortions by the opposition as Californians did during the successful campaign to pass Prop 8. The rhetoric on both sides of the issue is expected to heat up over...
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Leather Walk Raises $$ for AEF And BCEF
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 24, 2009
After the giant rainbow flag was temporarily replaced by the giant leather flag in Harvey Milk Plaza on Sept. 20, the 18th annual Leather Walk was set to begin. This yearly march from the Castro plaza to the Eagle tavern - always the Sunday before Folsom Fair - traditionally benefits...
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Folsom Street Fair Is Cumming!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 24, 2009
By Master Sister Dana Van Iquity On Sunday, Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Folsom Street Events presents the annual Folsom Street Fair on Folsom Street from 7th to 12th Streets. This is the largest leather/ fetish event in the world. It is a truly “only in San Francisco”...
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GLBT Historical Society Figures Turn 44; We Get the Presents
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 24, 2009
The GLBT Historical Society continues offering its museum display, “Passionate Struggle: Dynamics of San Francisco’s GLBT History” at its Castro and 18th Street location. This groundbreaking exhibit details the places, politics, passions, and people that have produced the possibilities for the diverse queer lives we now live. In that very...
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Pride Parade Announces New Theme, New Office, Old Board
Published: September 24, 2009
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee announced on Sept. 22 that the general membership of the organization overwhelmingly voted at their Annual General Membership (AGM) meeting, held September 20 at the Cathedral Hill Hotel, to re-elect standing board members for another term. Those re-elected are Vice President Nikki Calma,...
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Ammiano Re-Election Campaign Kicks Off at Triple Crown
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 24, 2009
Assemblyman Tom Ammiano held his big kickoff campaign for reelection at Triple Crown on Sept. 17 to a packed house of activists and progressives who truly believe in his politics and sense of humor. “It is an honor to represent you in Sacramento,” he said in his opening speech, “but...
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Let Leather Week Begin!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 17, 2009
The annual Leather Walk is a benefit for the AIDS Emergency Fund (www.aids-sf.org) & the Breast Cancer Emergency Fund (www.bcef-sf.org) that provide emergency financial assistance to low income men and women to help pay rent, telephone, gas and electricity, medicine, and other needs. Registration begins Sunday Sept. 20, 10 a.m....
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Restore Equality 2010 to Hold Town Hall Meeting In SF This Weekend
By Kim Corsaro Published: September 17, 2009
The coaliton of community groups who have taken on the task to harnessing the energy in the GLBT community to overturn Prop 8 in 2010 now has an official website: www.restoreequality2010.com. They have also announced a Town Hall meeting for this Saturday, Sept. 19, from 1-3pm, to be held at...
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NCLR and EQCA Hold 4th Annual Men’s Event Announce Advances
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 17, 2009
It was “Shave and a haircut, two bits!” for attendees at the 4th annual Men’s Event held at Barber Lounge on Sept. 14. The venue is ordinarily a barber shop, but the owners, Greg Griffin and Carl Kamb, have several times now offered it up for a combined Equality California...
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Harvey Milk Day Bill Heads To Gov’s Desk
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 10, 2009
Queer Activists Need to Urge Signature
The Harvey Milk Day bill is heading to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for his signature - since the state Senate passed the bill SB 572 by a 22-14 Senate concurrence vote with bipartisan support. The bill, authored by Senator Mark Leno and sponsored by...
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A Black Priest and Her Church Marries a Lesbian Mayor
By Ann Rostow Published: September 10, 2009
A First Person Account by Rev. Irene MonroeSince the liberal arm of the U.S. Episcopal Church passed a resolution in July to bless same-sex unions, particularly in states like Massachusetts that legalize such marriages, so too has, at least, one black congregation within the Massachusetts diocese. On Aug. 30, St....
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Vigil for Murdered Transwoman Shuts Down Castro Street
Published: September 3, 2009
On Saturday night, Aug. 29, a crowd gathered at 18th and Castro Streets to hold a Candlelight Vigil for murdered District of Columbia transwoman Tyli’a Mack. The large group of activists marched from corner to corner and then seized the intersection with chants of “Whose Street?! Our Street! We Demand...
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Harvey Milk Day Bill SB 572 is a Must For Queer Rights
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 3, 2009
Passage of SB 572, the Harvey Milk Day bill, would require the governor of California to proclaim May 22 each year as Harvey Milk Day. It would encourage public schools and educational institutions to conduct suitable commemorative exercises on that date. It would basically bring awareness to California citizens of...
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Doug Murphy, Affable Co-Owner of Moby Dick Bar, Dead At 41
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 27, 2009
Doug Murphy, super friendly co-owner of the Moby Dick and Blackbird bars, passed away on Friday, Aug. 21. His death was announced recently on the Blackbird fan’s Facebook page. Murphy is the latest local victim of swine flu, also known as the H1N1 Virus. He died because of complications from...
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Activists Gather to Restore Marriage Equality in California
By Nancy Norstad Published: August 27, 2009
On Saturday, Aug. 29 at the San Francisco State University Conference Center, a coalition of marriage equality activists will be spending their day mapping out a strategy to win marriage back in California. Their goals for the day are to continue efforts at statewide coalition building, to establish a Political...
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New SF Police Chief George Gascon Sworn In
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 27, 2009
The swearing-in ceremony for SFPD Chief George Gascon was held in the City Hall Rotunda on Aug. 21 before a standing room only audience of the public. Officer Michelangelo Apodaca served as master of ceremonies, applauding Martha Cohen for organizing the event. He introduced the SFPD Color Guard bringing the...
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Lt. Dan Choi at SF Benefit “Forward March” to Overturn Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 27, 2009
“Forward March” was a fundraiser held on Aug. 19 at Castro’s club Trigger to help repeal “Don’t Ask/ Don’t Tell,” the federal ban on gays in the military. “DA/ DT” was first authorized in 1994. Since that time, more than 13,000 service members have been discharged under the policy, including...
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88 Pride Partners Receive Checks at Distribution Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 20, 2009
It was certainly a great reason to have a party on Aug. 18 at the SF LGBT Community Center: celebrating the total amount of funds given to the LGBTQI community from the San Francisco Pride Celebration & Parade Committee. Pride Treasurer Belinda Ryan and the members of the Committee presented...
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Two STOP AIDS Project Forums at the LGBT Community Center
By Rink Published: August 20, 2009
The Stop AIDS Project presented two forums at the LGBT Community Center in one week to involve concerned citizens in HIV/AIDS prevention. The first forum on Aug. 13 was a panel discussion on a pill a day for blocking the virus, a Q&A, and then one-on-one discussions between panelists and...
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Maitri Raises Funds and Awareness at Starbelly
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 20, 2009
Starbelly - a new restaurant that opened Aug. 18 in the Castro - has generously agreed to partner with Maitri to support their mission to provide compassionate care to people living with AIDS. Proceeds from the sales of Starbelly’s “Maitri Michelada” drink during the restaurant’s opening week will benefit Maitri....
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HHBO Scores Highest Rating of 15 Networks In GLAAD’s New Index
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 20, 2009
Members of the queer press were invited to a media briefing on Aug. 12 at Coldwell Banker in the Castro with Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) San Francisco Senior Director, Juan Barajas, to discuss the recently released GLAAD Network Responsibility Index. This annual report maps the quantity, quality,...
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Governor’s Prison Plan: Don’t Tax Pot, Steal A Car
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 13, 2009
As California considers how to reduce prison spending, it continues to overlook non-violent marijuana prisoners. Later this month, the legislature will be debating a plan by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to reduce $1.2 billion in prison spending as part of the state’s budget deal. Last week, a federal court ordered the...
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Supervisors Pass Resolution Urging FCC Investigate Media Hate Speech
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 13, 2009
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution, 11-0, on Aug. 11 sponsored by Supervisor David Campos and co-sponsored by Supervisors John Avalos, David Chiu, Chris Daly, Bevan Dufty, Eric Mar, Sophie Maxwell and Ross Mirkarimi, “urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct a comprehensive investigation on...
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San Francisco Pride to Distribute Funds to Nonprofit Partner Organizations
Published: August 13, 2009
Over 85 community-based, nonprofit organizations will receive grant checks in recognition of their participation in the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee’s 2009 Community Partners Program. The Community Partners Program benefits nonprofit organizations based in the Bay Area whose mission involves services to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community...
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Boy With Arms Akimbo Celebrates 20th Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 13, 2009
The 20th anniversary of the first public action by a legendary San Francisco-based queer cultural activist group is coming up this Friday, Aug. 14. On Aug. 14, 1989, Boy With Arms Akimbo plastered the front of the San Francisco Federal Building with giant posters of male nude photographs to protest...
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SF Pride Announces Interim Executive Director
Published: August 6, 2009
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee announced today the selection of long-time board member Joshua Smith to the position of Interim Executive Director. Smith is stepping in as San Francisco Pride continues its national search for the next Executive Director. Smith has stepped down from the board of directors...
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Nationwide Kiss-In Planned for Aug. 15
By Rex Wockner Published: August 6, 2009
SF Event Will Take Place at Union Square
A GLBT “Great Nationwide Kiss-In” is planned for Aug. 15 at 11am Pacific time, 2pm Eastern time. Organizers include Join The Impact, which organized the 50-state anti-Prop-8 marches last November, bloggers and SitIn4Equality.net. The San Francisco event will take place in...
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Openhouse: “Finding Home’’ for LGBT Seniors
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 6, 2009
“Finding Home” is a photography and oral history exhibit that examines the stories of LGBT elders who came to San Francisco in search of home and community. Through photographs and stories, this exhibit documents the experience of LGBT seniors as they age in the city where they made a safe...
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Ammiano’s Pot Bill Would Bring Big Bucks to California
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 23, 2009
Assemblyman Tom Ammiano’s marijuana legalization bill would net California $1.38 billion in tax revenues per year, according to a newly released analysis by the State Board of Equalization. The BOE’s estimate parallels a similar analysis by California NORML, which estimated tax revenues at $1.01-$1.26 billion. Not included are savings in...
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Homeless Queer Youth Epidemic Fiercely Protested
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 16, 2009
The public was invited to attend Operation Shine San Francisco, a march and rally to raise awareness of the LGBTQ homeless youth epidemic in America. After free dinner at the SF LGBT Community Center, protesters marched to Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro, carrying placards stating: “Queer youth deserve justice;”...
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Picket Feinstein’s Office to Support Public Option in Health Care Reform
Published: July 16, 2009
Alicia Wright, a retired Marine who works at the Veterans Administration, and Berkeley health activist John Iversen at a from the MoveOn.org rally at Senator Dianne Feinstein’s office to support Obama’s call for a strong public health insurance option, like Medicare, to compete with profit-making insurance companies. About 150 people...
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23rd Annual AIDS Walk Coming On Sunday Morning!
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 16, 2009
The 23rd annual AIDS Walk San Francisco will once again bring together people from all walks of life for a common cause in the battle against AIDS and to support people with HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Neither an economic recession nor the threat of bad weather will prevent thousands...
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Real Bad Fundraiser to Raise a Cool Million
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 16, 2009
Grass Roots Gay Rights West (GRGR/West) producers of the annual REAL BAD fundraising party that follows the world renowned Folsom Street Fair, announced the four diverse beneficiaries and DJ for REAL BAD XXI at their famous fabulous frozen margarita party held in the lush Castro gardens of Stephen Mueller on...
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Magnet’s Celebrates Sixth Birthday
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 9, 2009
Clients, friends, and staff of Magnet – the Castro hub for gay health and well being – gathered on July 7 at the 18th and Castro storefront to celebrate six years of service to the community. Executive Director Steven Gibson said they started out with four staff and have now...
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Catholic Sister Jeannine Gramick Speaks Out for LGBT Rights
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 9, 2009
On July 5 at the headquarters of the Rainbow World Fund, Sister Jeannine Gramick, SL, Ph.D., spoke at a reception held for this progressive nun who has consistently stood up against the Vatican for its anti-queer policies and preaching. LGBT Civil Rights Pioneer Sister Gramick is a reform-minded Roman Catholic...
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Honoring the Grand Marshals of the Pride Parade
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 2, 2009
The 11th annual Pride Brunch, hosted by Donna Sachet and Gary Virginia as a fundraiser for Positive Resource Center (PRC), was held on June 27 at Hotel Whitcomb. The ballroom was draped with rainbow fabric and festooned with balloons everywhere. The co-hosts emceed the ceremony, an official SF Pride event,...
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Journalist Helen Zia Honored at API Wellness Center Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 2, 2009
Award-winning journalist Helen Zia, who was a Grand Marshal in the Pride Parade this year, was honored by the Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center on June 24 at club Trigger. Zia is widely pubished, and is a former executive editor of Ms. magazine. She was named one of the...
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PRIDE 2009
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 25, 2009
The theme for the annual San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration & Parade on June 27-28 is “To Form a More Perfect Union,” reflecting on the US Constitution’s well known phrase, but also playing on the word “union” as in same-sex marriage. The “Get Engaged!” Pavilion, hosted by Marriage Equality USA,...
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Rainbow Flag-Raising Signals Beginning Of Pride
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 25, 2009
People gathered on Mayor Gavin Newsom’s City Hall balcony and below on June 23 to witness the annual raising of the rainbow flag, a tradition that always precedes LGBT Pride Week. Then everyone assembled at the 2nd floor balcony of the City Hall Rotunda to hear officials speak and to...
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Celebrating The States Of Equality on the Anniversary of Marriage in California
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 25, 2009
“There have been some serious setbacks, but also MUCH to celebrate,” said the opening line on the invitation to a June 17 marriage equality mixer at club Trigger in the Castro. This was the first anniversary of the 18,000 same-sex couples that legally wed in SF City Hall, whose marriages...
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The Tenderloin Health Flourishes Despite Severe Budget Cuts
By Rink Published: June 25, 2009
Tenderloin Health hosted a gala reception at the luxurious Clift Hotel in San Francisco’s theater district on June 16. The hotel’s swank and softly lighted penthouse provided a beautiful setting and spectacular city views for a large turnout of clients, supporters, donors and friends of the agency. Huge floral displays...
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Out & Equal Celebrates Workplace Equality
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 18, 2009
The Out & Equal National Celebration of Workplace Equality Dinner and Awards, held on June 11 at the San Francisco Marriott, honored workplace courage and leadership in supporting the fundamental civil rights of marriage equality through exemplary opposition to Proposition 8 in California. The winners and honorees of the Signs...
The Immune Enhancement Project presented “Helping Hands,” a benefit for IEP at Varnish Fine Art and Wine Bar on June 13. The mission of IEP is to promote healing and wellness by providing high quality, accessible, and affordable Traditional Chinese Medicine and other healing arts to the community. The overriding...
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Dancing With Drag Queen Stars Held At Cheryl Burke Studios
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 11, 2009
In a fabulous spin-off of TV’s Dancing with the Stars, we had “Dancing with the Drag Queen Stars” featuring the TV show’s award-winning dancer Cheryl Burke herself as celebrity judge alongside Hollywood comic legend Bruce Vilanch and local drag celebrity Bebe Sweetbriar. Donna Sachet emceed this ballroom meets dance club...
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NCLR Celebrates 32 Years
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 4, 2009
Creator of the hit six-season TV series, The L Word, Ilene Chaiken was honored at the 32nd Anniversary Celebration for the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) on May 30 at Westin St. Francis. Afterwards the celebration continued with a party at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. NCLR is...
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Asian Pacific Islander Family Pride Banquet
By Rink Published: June 4, 2009
The Asian Pacific Island Family Pride Banquet was presented again at the Hotel Whitcomb on May 30. Greeter and board member Daniel Bao made guests feel welcome, and he and his family were featured in the Family Honor Role program and in the “Wall of Pride” display that ran along...
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Milk Democratic Club Marks 31st Years of Activism
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 4, 2009
Celebrating 31 years of progressive queer activism, the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club held its annual awards dinner on May 28 at Hotel Whitcomb to honor the women of Milk. Along two walls of the ballroom were displays of posters, news clippings, and photos from past Milk events – including...
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API Wellness Center’s Bloom Party at The Galleria
By Rink Published: May 28, 2009
Asian Pacific Wellness Center presented their best Bloom Party yet at The Galleria. The Galleria is known for being the site of the notorious film Can’t Stop the Music and a series of large famous parties from the disco era up to the present. The evening’s entertainment was continuous and...
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Body Image and Self Esteem Forum With Community Initiative
By Rink Published: May 28, 2009
The Community Initiative, which used to be called the Gay Community Initiative, presented a Body Image Forum at the LGBT Community Center on May 20. During his introduction, coordinator Lewis Nightingale thanked the 70-plus member audience for passing up the American Idol finale.The panelists were diverse and carefully chosen, including...
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March and Rally: Getting Ready For 2010
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 28, 2009
Marching from City Hall, past the Supreme Court building, taking over half of Market Street and all of 4th Street, hundreds and hundreds of demonstrators peacefully paraded against the Supreme Court decision to uphold Proposition 8, eventually winding up at the Martin Luther King memorial and Yerba Buena Gardens stage...
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23rd Annual AIDS Walk Holds Kickoff
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 28, 2009
Walking over a red carpet and through many colorful banners, guests at the 23rd annual AIDS Walk kickoff entered Terra Gallery on May 20 to celebrate past walkers’ successes and get excited about the upcoming July 19 AIDS Walk. Now in its 23rd year, the AIDS Walk has become a...
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LYRIC Celebrates Two Decades Of Service to Queer Youth
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 21, 2009
Celebrating LYRIC’s 20 years of services and advocacy for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning youth, the organization held an appreciation party at the Delancey Street Foundation on May 14, overlooking the beautiful Bay and the Bridge. Their events feature LYRIC’s accomplishments in building youth and adult partnerships, community...
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The Stars Came Out for GLAAD
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: May 14, 2009
Comedian and late night talk show host Chelsea Handler emceed the Northern California GLAAD Media Awards gala on May 9 at the Hilton San Francisco. The GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) Media Awards recognize and honor media for their fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of the LGBT community...
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Judy Shepard Speaks to Erase Hate
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 14, 2009
The Imperial Court of San Francisco presented a special event where Judy Shepard, mother of her brutally murdered son, Matthew, spoke to “Erase Hate.” The fundraiser for the Matthew Shepard Foundation was held on May 8 at Harry Denton’s Starlight Room. All of the International Imperial Courts across the...
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The Progress of Harvey Milk Day Bill
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 14, 2009
At the Judy Shepard function (see story, left) Senator Mark Leno gave an update on the progress of the California bill to honor slain Supervisor Harvey Milk every year. AB 2567, formally recognizing the legacy of slain civil rights pioneer Harvey Milk, would require Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to proclaim May...
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Becka St. James: Rock â€n’ Roll Ramona
Published: May 14, 2009
Becka St. James, known to her fans and loved ones as Rock †n Roll Ramona, Ivi Monroe, and Bella Donna, went to the Big Rock Show in the sky on April 22, 2009. Sadly, it was suicide. Born June 8, 1961 in Columbus, Ohio, St. James made a name for...
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Immune Enhancement Project Heals Holistically
By Ann Rostow Published: May 7, 2009
On May Day, the Immune Enhancement Project welcomed the fans of alternative medicine in the community to an open house party. The mission of the Immune Enhancement Project is to promote healing and wellness by providing high quality, accessible, and affordable Traditional Chinese Medicine and other healing arts to the...
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The Good and The Bad News About Marijuana Legalization
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 7, 2009
For the first time ever in a statewide Field Poll, a majority of California voters - 56 percent - expressed support for legalizing and taxing marijuana in a poll released May 4. Earlier this year, Assemblymember Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco) announced the introduction of groundbreaking legislation that would tax and...
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Maitri Bliss at the Presidio’s Golden Gate Club
By Rink Published: May 7, 2009
Maitri Hospice celebrated their 8th Bliss party and 22nd year as a model for compassionate care for HIV/AIDS patients at the historic Golden Gate Club in the Presidio on May 3. The earthy scent of eucalyptus groves surrounded the stylish setting for the event; it was also the site of...
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School District Launches Website Promoting Gay Pride
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 7, 2009
Under the stated intent of making schools safer for all students, the San Francisco Unified School District has launched a website - believed to be the first of its kind - that provides resources designed to “meet the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth” in its schools....
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San Francisco Loses AIDS Activist Leader Dan Cusick
By Paul E. Pratt Published: April 30, 2009
While awaiting a liver transplant, Dan Cusick surrendered his battle with complications of Hepatitis C on April 23. At Cusick’s bedside were family and friends, many who witnessed the 50-year-old’s decades as a pioneering AIDS activist and long-time survivor of the disease, work as an LGBT community leader and staunch...
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Queer Youth Speak Out at California State Capitol
By Corey Egel Published: April 23, 2009
LGBTQI… The queer youth is in the fight! With a rousing chant, a new generation of activists is looking towards the future by remembering the past. Nearly 150 students from across California gathered at the State Capitol on April 20 for Queer Advocacy Day 2009, an event sponsored by GSA...
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Moms Pharmacy Opens Community Resource Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 16, 2009
MOMS Pharmacy, a specialty HIV/AIDS drug store, and Under One Roof, a nonprofit organization that funds 28 Bay Area AIDS service organizations, have launched an innovative partnership to create a Community Resource Center for people living with HIV/AIDS. It is located in the heart of the Castro district at 4071...
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Easter Marks 12th-Annual Trannyshack: Reno
By Ann Rostow Published: April 16, 2009
It’s been a dozen years since Heklina and the crew of Trannyshack first terrorized the open highways between San Francisco and Reno, NV. As with years past, the 2009 five-hour bus trip from the Bay Area to the “Biggest Little City on Earth” was marked by debauchery, allegations of drug...
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Castro Rally Denounces Killings
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 9, 2009
In response to the murders of gay men in Iraq, an email sent to SF activists asked for “an important early evening street visibility action to call attention and object to the homo-hatred in Iraq.” Many news cameras rolled as openly gay Supervisor Bevan Dufty, longtime affordable housing and queer...
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Our Family Coalition Holds 1st Night Out
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 9, 2009
Our Family Coalition’s First Annual Night Out on April 1 at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts was in celebration of all that the organization has achieved; the work that lies before it; and especially, its incredible families. Our Family Coalition (OFC) promotes the civil rights and well-being of Bay...
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GLBT Historical Society Gives Appreciation for Volunteers
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 2, 2009
On March 27, the SF GLBT Historical Society threw a party in appreciation of its many dedicated volunteers. It was held in a specially closed to the public evening in the new Castro and 18th museum, featuring quite a lot of Harvey Milk memorabilia and other treasures from the LGBT...
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LGBT Center Was A 3-Ring Circus for 7th Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 2, 2009
The San Francisco LGBT Community Center presented an evening of three-ring inspired fun celebrating its seventh anniversary on March 28 at Terra Gallery. Before the frivolity began, Center Executive Director Rebecca Rolfe had a few words to say. “The Center is dedicated to building community, creating opportunity, and advocating for...
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CUAV Celebrates 30th Years And Talks About Violence
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 26, 2009
Community United Against Violence (CUAV) celebrated three decades of healing and transformation on March 20 at 111 Minna Gallery. CUAV announced a bold new vision: to build LGBTQ power to transform violence and oppression. As part of the larger social justice movement, they said they are working to create thriving...
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Community Forum on HIV/Hep C Co-infection at the LGBT Center
By Rink Published: March 26, 2009
There are few afflictions as punishing as having both HIV and hepatitis C. The suffering can be heartrending. The Conant Medical Foundation presented a community forum, co-sponsored by the Black Coalition on AIDS and Project Inform on March 17 at the LGBT Community Center. The event flyer asked, “Could you...
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Martin Delaney of Project Inform Memorialized
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 19, 2009
Friends and family of Project Inform Founding Director Martin Delaney gathered on March 14 in the Eureka Valley Recreation Center to remember and celebrate the man who changed the approach to access to AIDS/HIV treatments and information. Born Dec. 9, 1945 in Chicago, he was diagnosed with chronic active Hepatitis...
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It’s Time to March To Sacramento!
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 19, 2009
The idea for the upcoming March to Sacramento was born in the aftermath of the passage of Proposition 8 in California, which stripped queer people of the right to marry. But the message sought to be conveyed in this march is not just about marriage; it is also about discrimination...
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Homeless Forum at the Eureka Valley Rec Center
By Rink Published: March 19, 2009
The homelessness situation in San Francisco cannot be underestimated. It is at the top of citizen and tourist dissatisfaction surveys, and it contributed to a popular Mayor Art Agnos being denied a second term in the 1990s. And it helped to elect a Pacific Heights supervisor to the mayor’s chair....
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Thousands March And Rally Against Prop 8
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 12, 2009
The “March Fourth March Forth for Justice” candlelight demonstration was held in over 35 cities nationwide by Marriage Equality USA (MEUSA), in advance of the historic California Supreme Court oral arguments on the validity of Proposition 8 and whether the initiative process can take away fundamental freedoms from minorities. A...
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What’s Happening for the California Supreme Court Hearing on Prop 8
Published: March 5, 2009
On the morning of March 5, there will be two events in Civic Center Plaza, just outside the steps of the California Supreme Court.
Interfaith Celebration of Hope and Justice at Civic Center Plaza from 7:30am-8:45amThe MCC San Francisco (MCCSF) will lead an “Interfaith Celebration of Hope and Justice,”...
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Minter and Stewart Named California Lawyers Of the Year
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 5, 2009
California Lawyer has named National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) Legal Director Shannon Price Minter and San Francisco Chief Deputy City Attorney Therese M. Stewart as California Lawyer Attorneys of the Year. Stewart and Minter were recognized for their achievements in the fight for marriage equality in California. The recipients...
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March for Justice on Eve of Calif Supreme Court Prop 8 Hearing
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 26, 2009
March 4 is the day before the California Supreme Court hears oral arguments on the validity of Proposition 8. To activists across the state, March 4th will be known as “March Forth for Justice.” That evening, activists will stand together and send a unified message to their fellow Californians -...
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Town Hall Meeting About No on 8 Campaign
Published: February 26, 2009
On Thursday, Feb. 26, San Fran-cisco Supervisor Bevan Dufty has called a Town Hall meeting with the leaders of the No on 8 campaign and the community. The meeting kicks off with public commens from Senator Mark Leno, and then launches into a two-hour open mic session, where community members...
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Ammiano Proposes Taxing Marijuana in California
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 26, 2009
AB 390 Could Raise Over $1 Billion for State
At a Feb. 23 press conference in the main lobby of the California State Building, Assemblyman Tom Ammiano brought a topic that rocked the nation. Ammiano announced the introduction of groundbreaking state legislation that would tax and regulate marijuana in...
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MILK Wins at AOF 29th Annual Oscars Gala
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: February 26, 2009
Hi simply hi from Tinseltown North! This is your intrepid reportress bringing you the Hollywood dish on Oscar’s 81st annual awards program via the 29th annual Academy of Friends faboo gala fundraiser on Feb. 22 at Fort Mason Pavilion in our beautiful city of EssEff. I certainly cannot gossip about...
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E.D. Jones To Leave SF Parade
Published: February 26, 2009
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee (SFLGBTPCC) announced on Feb. 24 that Executive Director Lindsey Jones will be transitioning out of her position after the 2009 San Francisco Pride Celebration & Parade. She may continue to stay involved with the organization after her departure by providing support in sponsorship...
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Gays Picket Hyatt As Bill Clinton Speaks Inside
By Rex Wockner Published: February 19, 2009
About 200 GLBT activists and union activists picketed the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego on Feb. 15 as former President Bill Clinton spoke inside to the International Franchise Association. The protesters were upset that Clinton “crossed a picket line” to speak at the association’s annual convention. Gays have been boycotting...
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Cupid’s Back Raises Funds for GLBT Historical Society
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 19, 2009
The 3rd annual Valentine’s Day Party to benefit the GLBT Historical Society (GLBTHS) was held at Lime bistro in the heart (get it?) of the Castro on Feb. 13 to a sold-out, packed house of pre-V-day celebrants. PG&E and the GLBTHS hosted “Cupid’s Back,” which some might call San Francisco’s...
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Lawrence King Murder Remembered
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 12, 2009
This Thursday, Feb. 12 marks the first anniversary of the school shooting that tragically claimed the life of openly gay, gender nonconforming eighth-grader Lawrence King at E.O. Green Junior High School in Oxnard, CA last year. Students are preparing to remember and honor King, who according to classmates was regularly...
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AIDS Housing Alliance/SF Celebrates 5th Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 5, 2009
AIDS Housing Alliance/SF held its 5th Anniversary Extravaganza on Jan. 31 at the new BOC (Bar On Church), 198 Church Street. Funds raised will support the nonprofit’s programs, including housing referrals, emergency financial assistance, shelter for homeless people with HIV/AIDS, job training programs linked to transitional housing, and a public...
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A Tribute to Martin Delaney, Project Inform Founder
Published: January 29, 2009
A memorial tribute to Martin Delaney, co-founder of Project Inform, the HIV education advocacy organization, sprang up at Castro and 18th Streets. Founded in 1985, Project Inform is a national vortex of important information for people with HIV/AIDS and the people who care about them. Martin Delaney led the daring...
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Bay Times Writer Dennis McMillan Injured in Scooter Accident
Published: January 22, 2009
Dennis McMillan (a.k.a. Sister Dana van Iquity) has spent this week at SF General Hospital, having sustained multiple injuries in an accident on his scooter. He has six broken ribs and a broken clavicle. It’s very painful, as all he can do is lie there and wait for his bones...
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Polk Street In Transition Exhibit Opens at GLBT Historical Society
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 22, 2009
The face of San Francisco is changing, and so are its stories, according to the GLBT Historical Society. This is seen most dramatically in the Polk Gulch district. A new exhibit opened on Jan. 15 at the Downtown Branch of the Society on 657 Mission Street #300 focusing on the...
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BAPHR Awards Grants to 12 Groups
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 15, 2009
Since their inception in the late 1970’s, Bay Area Physicians for Human Rights (BAPHR) has granted money to many LGBT community service groups. As of their last granting cycle in November 2008, they have distributed more than $1 million to Bay Area organizations. A grant distribution ceremony was held at...
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Vandals Attack Holy Redeemer Church
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 8, 2009
Swastikas and graffiti were spray-painted on the Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church sometime before Jan. 5 in an apparent protest of Proposition 8, which removed same-sex marriage rights from over 18,000 couples in California. The church is located in the heart of the Castro on Diamond and 18th Streets, and...
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Benefit for “Richmond Jane Doe” this Friday
Published: January 8, 2009
The good news is that Richmond police have arrested the four men accused of abducting a Richmond lesbian on Dec. 13 and repeatedly raping her. As the legal drama unfolds, the woman has a lot of healing work ahead of her, and she faces serious economic challenges. She needs a...
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Vigil for Lesbian Raped in Richmond Community Benefit Planned for Jan
By Kim Corsaro Published: December 31, 2008
For Richmond Jane Doe, the nightmare has not abated. On Dec. 13, she was gang-raped by four men as she got out of her car, which had a rainbow stick on it. One of the men hit her, ordered her to take off her clothes, and raped her on the...
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GLBT Historical Society Holds Ceremony to Open Castro Museum
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 31, 2008
The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Historical Society held a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 18 at its new museum and exhibit, “Passionate Struggle: Dynamics of San Francisco’s GLBT History.” The museum is located on the corner of Castro and 18th Streets. Invited guests were staff, donors, and volunteers. “We are...
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Tree Of Hope Unveiled By Rainbow World Fund at City Hall
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 18, 2008
Five thousand origami cranes expressing wishes from around the world decorated the 22-foot tall evergreen Tree of Hope, which was unveiled at a ceremony in City Hall open to all, thanks to the sponsorship of Mayor Gavin Newsom, newlywed Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and the Rainbow World Fund (RWF). Rainbow World...
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Hand To Hand Luncheon Raises Needed Funds For Open Hand
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 18, 2008
Project Open Hand held its 17th annual Hand to Hand Luncheon fundraiser at San Francisco Marriott on Dec. 10. Open Hand’s premier annual event raised more than $350,000 for its nutrition services. The event featured a gourmet three course meal prepared by 12 of the Bay Area’s most noted chefs...
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AIDS Legal Referral Panel Gives From The Heart
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 4, 2008
ALRP (AIDS Legal Referral Panel) surpassed its goal of $150,000 for its “From the Heart” 25th Annual Reception & Auction at their dinner at the Palace Hotel. ALRP’s mission is to help people living with HIV/AIDS maintain and improve their health by resolving their legal issues. ALRP’s services are provided...
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By Ann Rostow Published: November 27, 2008
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A National Day of Protest
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 20, 2008
Take It To Sacramento This Sunday!On Nov. 22, equal-minded citizens from across the state and country will take part in “Take It to Sacramento,” a massive protest against Proposition 8 - a bigoted and unfair measure that has wrongly passed - in front of the State Capitol. With an estimated...
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AmFAR Celebrates 10th Annual Fall Gala
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 20, 2008
On Nov. 15, supporters of amfAR (the Foundation for AIDS Research) across the Bay Area gathered for the Foundation’s tenth annual San Francisco Fall Gala, raising nearly $400,000 for amfAR’s AIDS research programs. The event was presented by Wells Fargo and chaired by Stephen Brady, Julie Candice, Tim Hanlon, Lance...
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Celebrating First Decade: Triangle Martial Arts
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 13, 2008
For the tenth anniversary of Triangle Martial Arts Association, TMAA held a buffet party and awards ceremony on Nov. 8 at the SF LGBT Community Center. Grand Master Instructor and TMAA President Ken Craig opened the ceremonies explaining that the three qualities stressed in the organization were community, diversity, and...
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No On 8 Party at St Francis was Hopeful but Doubtful
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 6, 2008
A victory party for No on 8 had been planned at the Westin St. Francis Hotel on Election Night. The mood was joyous at the announcement of President-elect Barack Obama’s landslide win, but hundreds of attendees inside the hotel had yet to hear the final totals for Proposition 8, the...
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Cruising For Obama On Election Night
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 6, 2008
Over 100 supporters for presidential candidate Barack Obama and against Prop 8 boarded the historic Presidential Yacht USS Potomac (helping preserve the history of Franklin D. Roosevelt and his “Floating White House”) on Election Night, ending with an even more historic victory for Obama. The ship is 75 years old...
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A Final Push For No on 8
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 30, 2008
On Oct. 28, No on 8 released a powerful new ad featuring U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, which is on the air statewide. In the ad, Senator Feinstein talks directly to voters about what Prop 8 really is - discrimination. Elimination of civil rights. Looking straight at the camera, the Senator...
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Halloween in the Castro Has NOT Been Cancelled!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 30, 2008
Halloween is for everyone. This year, the second annual “Home for Halloween” Campaign is spreading the word through a broad public awareness campaign at homeforhalloween.com. The website is part of a multi-layered media effort to discourage individuals who live outside of the San Francisco area from coming into the Castro...
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No on Prop 8 Digest
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 23, 2008
Debunking Yes On 8 Ads - We’re Now At Dead Heat On the day that the Yes on Prop 8 campaign released a new television ad repeating for the third time a charge that has been exposed as untrue, the NO on Prop 8 campaign challenged the Prop 8 campaign...
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EQCA Announces New No On H8 Strategies
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 16, 2008
At 111 Minna gallery during the Oct. 14 kickoff for the annual Equality California (EQCA) fundraiser, further plans were announced to defeat Proposition 8, the anti-same sex marriage amendment that would write LGBT discrimination into the State Constitution. EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors opened the event thanking P-FLAG’s Julia Thoron...
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GLBT Historical Society Celebrates Third Decade
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 16, 2008
Celebrating 30 years of queer history in the making, the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Historical Society held its annual gala fundraiser, “Modern History: From Milk to Marriage,” at Elan on Oct. 9. The event honored author Armistead Maupin and two groups of activists who coordinated the fight against the 1978...
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Demolicious Pigged Out The Vote For Obama And Equality
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 9, 2008
MoveOn.org Political Action Committee and Equality California No on 8 campaign joined forces on Sept. 30 to host “DemoLicious ’08: Pig Out the Vote” at Terra Gallery. It was a wine and fine cuisine and silent auction extravaganza to help in the election campaign for Sen. Barack Obama and against...
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Two Leading HIV Advocates Join Stop AIDS Project
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 9, 2008
 Kate Sorensen and Matt Sharp, two of the nation’s foremost HIV/AIDS advocates, have joined the leadership of the STOP AIDS Project. STOP AIDS hired Sorensen as the program director and Sharp as the Positive Force program manager. “We are all very excited to have Kate and Matt joining our team,”...
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Groundbreaking Symposium to Provide Resources LGBT Families
Published: October 9, 2008
QUEER FAMILIES = HEALTHY FAMILIES, is the first family symposium of its kind, bringing together top experts in the field of LGBT parenting along with same-sex parents and their children. The Conference is spearheaded by Gaylesta, The, Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Psychotherapists Association;, the San Francisco LGBT Community Center and...
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Desperate Divas Worked Runway for AIDS Housing Alliance
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 2, 2008
AIDS Housing Alliance/SF (AHA) presented Desperate Divas 2009, a glamour-filled calendar girl exhibition featuring the Bay Area’s gorgeous drag divas. Each month of the glossy 2009 calendar displays a different Desperate Diva, having been selected at a series of preliminary contests leading up to the Grand Pageant on September 26th...
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City Of San Francisco Officially Welcomes Leather Community
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 25, 2008
On Monday, September 22, the City of San Francisco officially welcomed members of the adult alternative lifestyle community for San Francisco Leather Week 2008. It was an intimate reception in City Hall’s South Light Court. Andy Copper, board president of Folsom Street Events (FSE), the producers of the annual Folsom...
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Parade Theme, Board Members For 2009 Selected
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 25, 2008
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee (SFLGBTPCC) announced on Sept. 23 that the general membership of the organization overwhelmingly voted at their annual General Membership meeting, held at the Cathedral Hill Hotel, to reelect standing board members for another term. Those re-elected are President Mikayla Connell, Secretary Kelly Rivera...
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Joan Rivers Knocks 'Em Dead At Folsom Fair Fundraiser
By Ann Rostow Published: September 25, 2008
A formal gala featuring the hilarious Joan Rivers took place in the luxurious Regency Center’s Sutter Room on Sept. 20, benefiting the nonprofit Folsom Street Events, as a kickoff for Leather Pride Week and the Folsom Street Fair. Over 350 guests put on formal wear, dress leather, and kink-wear to...
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Veteran Queer Activist Radical Faerie John Burnside Passes
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 18, 2008
John Lyon Burnside III passed away peacefully at the age of 91 in this home on Sunday, September 14 surrounded by the Circle of Loving Companions who had been caring for him. He had been recently diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer. Burnside was an activist, inventor, dancer, physicist, a founder...
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Immune Enhancement Project at Risk of Closing - Calls for Help
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 18, 2008
The Immune Enhancement Project (IEP), a nonprofit that has provided quality complementary medicine including acupuncture, health education, and therapeutic massage services to the community for over 20 years, is facing closure at the end of this month. A recent cut in funding from the city of San Francisco, amounting to...
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No on Prop 8 Weekend of Action is Here. Just Say No to The Mormons!
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 18, 2008
This week, the Mormon Church is launching an all-out push to distribute one million “Yes on 8” lawn signs, asking California voters to write discrimination against same-sex marriages into the State Constitution. Regardless of whether they meet this goal, the â€Yes on 8” proponents will be generating tremendous P.R and...
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Back To School With Gay-Straight Alliance
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 18, 2008
Ninth grade students are nervous, seniors are excited, sophomores and juniors are dreading their overloaded class schedules - but it’s that time again, BACK TO SCHOOL! As students all over California have gone back to school, Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA) is also kicking off in back-to-school mode. Just as many...
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Demonstrators Rally To Support New Medical Marijuana Guidelines
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 4, 2008
More than a dozen demonstrators rallied near City Hall on Sept. 2 to support new guidelines for medical marijuana clubs. Members of the Axis of Love, a medical marijuana advocacy organization, and others held a press conference to discuss California Attorney General Jerry Brown’s new rules for medical cannabis use....
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Lesbian Pioneer Activist Del Martin Passes Away
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 28, 2008
Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon were married at San Francisco City Hall by Mayor Gavin Newsom at 5:01pm on June 16, after living their 55-year love story. They became the first same-sex couple in the state to marry. Martin, a true pioneer in the GLBT movement, and a tireless activist...
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Veterans at Post 448 Speak Out for GLBT Legionnaires
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 28, 2008
The Alexander Hamilton Post #448 of the American Legion held an indoor summer picnic at the Veterans’ War Memorial Building. These are LGBT men and women who are veterans or who are relatives of veterans. Post 448 is the only post whose membership is predominantly LGBT. Post 448’s Legionnaires are...
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Twenty Bars Team Up With STOP AIDS
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 28, 2008
On Thursday, August 28, 20 San Francisco bars and STOP AIDS Project will work together for a night of hanging out with friends and fundraising. Twenty bars in seven San Francisco neighborhoods will donate a portion of their sales to support the work of the STOP AIDS Project.“This is another...
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SF Parade Gives Back Big $$$
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: August 21, 2008
The SF LGBT Pride Celebration Committee held their Community Partner Check Presentation and Parade Awards on Aug 19 at the LGBT Community Center. With an estimated attendance of over 1.1 million people at this year’s event, the Committee had many reasons to thank their Community Partners for all the hard...
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GLAAD Raises A Glass To Marriage Equality
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 21, 2008
The San Francisco chapter of media watchdog and human rights organization, GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), raised a glass to Mayor Gavin Newsom, marriage equality, and common sense in a fundraiser entitled, “We’ll Drink to That!”, held at Orson restaurant on Aug. 17. The San Francisco Leadership Council...
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A Huge Victory as Judge Upholds Prop 8 Ballot Language
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 14, 2008
Sacramento County Superior Court Judge Timothy Frawley on Friday, Aug. 8 said state officials will not have to rewrite the official summary describing Prop 8, the same-sex marriage ban that California citizens will vote on in the November election. This is a real victory for marriage equality activists, since the...
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No On 8 Opens House On Lucky Number 8
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 14, 2008
The NO on 8 Equality for All Campaign was crazy about the number “8” on 8/8/08. Supporters for marriage equality have been working hard to defeat the anti-LGBT marriage amendment known as Prop. 8 on the California ballot this November. The No on 8 field crew recently discovered something special...
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Legislature Approves Civil Rights Act Of 2008
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 14, 2008
The full Legislature on Aug. 8 approved the Civil Rights Act of 2008, continuing an historic multi-year effort by Assemblymember John Laird and Equality California to modernize California’s anti-discrimination laws. Assembly Bill 2654 passed the Senate with a 23-15 vote and now goes to the Governor’s desk for consideration.The Civil...
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And Marriage for All Reaches Out to Black Community
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 7, 2008
And Marriage for All (AM4A) is a newly formed public education campaign on same-sex marriage. A partnership of And Castro 4 All and the Bayard Rustin LGBT Coalition, AM4A is working alongside leading advocates for marriage equality including Freedom to Marry, CA NAACP, National Black Justice Coalition, National Center for...
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CDC Finds Sero-Conversion Rate Higher Than Estimated
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 7, 2008
In Mexico City in the first days of August at an international HIV/AIDS conference, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the federal agency responsible for tracking the AIDS epidemic in America, released the latest report on new HIV infections in the United States annually. The CDC found that...
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NCLR Launches New PAC to Defeat Prop 8
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 7, 2008
The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) has announced the launch of a new political action committee (PAC) to defeat Proposition 8, the marriage ban appearing on California’s November ballot. Through the No on 8 / NCLR Social Justice Fund, NCLR pledges to contribute significant dollars to the campaign to...
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HRC Comes To Town, Greeted By Unified, Diverse Protests
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 31, 2008
The gala Human Rights Campaign dinner, “Race for Equality,” was held on July 26 at the Westin St. Francis Hotel. Although protests raged outside the hotel, the event proceded as usual inside, It included Congresswoman Lynne Woolsey, actor/activist Marlee Matlin, a special address by HRC President Joe Solmonese, and a...
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PG&E Donates $250,000 to Fight Prop 8
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 31, 2008
 Equality California received a significant contribution of $250,000 from Pacific Gas and Electric Company on July 29 to help secure the freedom to marry for all Californians. PG&E is partnering with EQCA and the NO on 8 Campaign to defeat Proposition 8, the November statewide ballot initiative that aims to...
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One Month Anniversary of Marriage in California
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 17, 2008
 “When I heard the words â€I now pronounce you LEGALLY MARRIED,’ it was the best thing I’ve heard since the nurse told us, â€It’s a boy and he’s healthy,’” said Troy of Mariposa County who married Viktor, his partner and now husband of 16 years. “We’ve been flooded with amazing...
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Calif. Supreme Court Says NO: Prop 8 Will Be on Nov. Ballot
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 17, 2008
As Bay Times goes to press, the California Supreme Court has issued an order in Bennett v. Bowen, denying a petition to remove Proposition 8, the proposed marriage ban, from the November ballot. The initiative is a California Constitutional amendment that would overturn the May 15 ruling by the Court,...
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Magnet Celebrates 5 Years
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 17, 2008
Magnet, the Castro hub for gay/bi health and social well being, became five years old and held a big bash for the public at their headquarters on 18th and Castro Streets on July 12. The fifth anniversary gift is traditionally wood – which is the perfect symbol for this sex-positive...
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HRC Prez Joe Solmonese On the Record, As Protest Looms Over HRC Gala
Published: July 17, 2008
By Tim GaskinThe national GLBT lobbying group is holding its gala dinner in San Francisco July 26. The event is being boycotted by several San Francisco gay officials, after HRC failed to supped an Employment Non-Discrimination Bill in the U.S. Congress that included protection for trans people. (Solmonese) It is...
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Lake County Queer Students Protected By Settlement
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 10, 2008
The ACLU of Northern California (ACLU-NC) has reached a settlement with the Upper Lake Union Elementary School District that contains a comprehensive series of steps the District will undertake to protect students from anti-gay harassment and discrimination. The agreement is on behalf of a student who was persistently subjected to...
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NCLR & EQCA Hold Men’s Event
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 10, 2008
Who said the party couldn’t last forever? This year’s Men’s Event celebrated the historic victory allowing lesbian and gay couples to marry in the state of California. NCLR Executive Director Kate Kendell and EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors invited donors to come to Barber Lounge at Folsom and 4th Streets...
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HRC Releases Guide On Queers and Faith
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 10, 2008
The Human Rights Campaign, one of the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights groups, has published a study guide as a supplement for the film, For the Bible Tells Me So, a documentary that explores the intersection of religion and the LGBT experience. The film, a 2008 GLAAD Media Award recipient...
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Obama Opposes California Marriage Ban; Mccain Supports It
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 3, 2008
In a letter read to a gathering of the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club during their annual Pride breakfast on June 29, Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama reaffirmed his opposition of ballot measures that propose to take away the freedom to marry for lesbian and gay couples, including California’s...
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Raising the Rainbow Flag at City Hall
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 3, 2008
Mayor Gavin Newsom held the annual Rainbow Flag Raising ceremony June 26 from his office balcony while over 100 people watched. Several panels from the Names Project AIDS Quilt hung from the balcony. People then went into the City Hall Rotunda outside the Mayor’s office for a reception and awards...
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PRIDE 2008
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 26, 2008
It’s All Happening this Pride Weekend!!! A star-studded lineup including pop star Cyndi Lauper, comedienne Margaret Cho, and queer icon Charo, comes together for the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration & Parade, June 28-29, where the queer community will be “United by Pride, Bound for Equality,” and energized to...
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Milk Club Celebrates 30 Years of Activism
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 26, 2008
The Hotel Whitcomb was packed when attendees gathered there to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Harvey Milk LGBT Democratic Club with a sit-down dinner and special guest speakers. Milk Club President Rafael Mandelman said he was only four years old when SF Supervisor Harvey Milk was shot. “Harvey and...
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A Special Evening for Redhouse Catholic Charities CYO Celebrating 23 Years Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 12, 2008
In 1985, as AIDS was rapidly spreading in San Francisco, Catholic Charities was one of the first organizations to respond. Today, the Assisted Housing & Health Services of Catholic Charities CYO serves over 1,100 people annually, and fills a crucial space in the continuum of care for people living with...
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Foster Youth Bill Passes Assembly
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 12, 2008
Legislation that would help protect foster youth against harassment and discrimination at school has passed the California Assembly. Assembly Bill 3015, authored by Assemblymember Julia Brownley, D-Woodland Hills, would educate foster care youth, and their caregivers, about existing California laws that protect students against bias.The Assembly passed AB 3015 with...
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AEF Holds Old Fashioned County Fair Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 5, 2008
The AIDS Emergency Fund held its 26th Anniversary Awards Gala, this year with a new county fair theme. The event offered four hours of local entertainment, country western dance, county fair food and drink, pie baking contest, and 20 midway carnival games at their inaugural AEF County Fair, held in...
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Leno Wins Senate Race
Published: June 5, 2008
A jubilant Mark Leno ascended the stage at his election night party in San Francisco. When all the votes were counted, Leno took 47 percent of the district, which includes San Francisco, all of Marin and part of Sonoma. Incumbent state Senator Carole Migden, an out lesbian, and former Assemblyman...
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Shanti Holds Volunteer Appreciation Party
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 5, 2008
Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life, health, and well-being of people living with HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, and other life-threatening diseases, Shanti offers a continuum of services designed to meet the practical and emotional support needs of these people. In addition, Shanti shares over 30 years of experience with organizations...
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Support the CA Supreme Court's Decision on Same Sex Marriage
Published: May 29, 2008
The office of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is polling reaction to the California Supreme Court decision overturning the ban on gay marriage. Most of the response they are getting is in OPPOSITION to the court action.
To vote in support of the Supreme Court's decision on same sex marriage:
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Harvey Milk City Hall Memorial Sculpture Unveiled
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 29, 2008
On a momentous May 22nd, a magnificent sculpture of Harvey Milk was unveiled in San Francisco’s City Hall, presented by the Harvey Milk City Hall Memorial Committee. The Committee was co-chaired by Dan Nicoletta and Joey Cain. The bust was by Daub, Firmin, and Hendrickson Sculpture Group. It would have...
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Victory Celebrated At The LGBT Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 22, 2008
After the California Supreme Court’s groundbreaking decision granting legal marriage for same-sex couples came down on May 15 at 10 a.m., the LGBT Community Center immediately issued invitations to the entire queer community to gather there for rejoicing later that day. After nearly ten minutes of clapping, shouting, whistling, hooting,...
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Mama’s Family Hosts Breast Cancer Emergency Fund Dinner
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: May 22, 2008
In April 2001, after several years of research and input from the community, AIDS Emergency Fund (AEF) launched a new initiative, Breast Cancer Emergency Fund (BCEF). Modeled on the successful work of AEF in providing direct financial assistance to low-income San Franciscans fighting HIV and AIDS, the offshoot organization, BCEF,...
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Banyan Tree Project Fights Against HIV/AIDS Stigma
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 22, 2008
Two days before the fourth annual National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, on May 17, the A&PI Wellness Center presented “You Can Change the Story,” a program from The Banyan Tree, open to the public. The Banyan Tree Project is helping put an end to HIV/AIDS-related stigma and...
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Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Raises Funds For AIDS Memorial
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 22, 2008
It was a perfectly delightful afternoon (right after the extreme heat wave was over and it was a warm and welcoming day) on May 17 to hold the annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party fundraiser for the National AIDS Memorial Grove. The Grove is a seven-acre dell in Golden Gate Park...
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GLAAD Media Awards Rolls Out Celebrities at SF Event
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 15, 2008
Hostess Candis Cayne from TV’s Dirty, Sexy Money, Alan Cumming, Billy Baldwin, Judith Light, Jennifer Beals, Rex Lee, and Jason Lewis were among the celebrities who joined the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) as it honored Sharon Stone, Ilene Chaiken, James Schamus, and David Mixner, and presented awards...
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Harvey Milk Statue Set To Be Unveiled At City Hall Gala
By Ann Rostow Published: May 15, 2008
The statue of Harvey Milk, San Francisco’s first gay Supervisor, will be unveiled at a gala ceremony to be held in City Hall on May 22, on what would have been Milk’s 78th birthday. The event starts at 6 p.m., is free and open to the public, and will feature...
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Lambda Legal Makes The Case For Equality At St Regis Event
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 15, 2008
Lambda Legal, The nation’s oldest and largest legal organization working for the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, and people with HIV/AIDS, held a gala at the St. Regis Hotel, celebrating its 35th anniversary, including a docent tour of the Museum of the African Diaspora located in the lobby. The...
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The California Ruling Comes Out On Marriage. What Do You Do?
Published: May 15, 2008
As Bay Times goes to press, the California Supreme Court’s has announced they will issue their ruling on whether same-sex couples can marry on Thursday morning, May 15, at 10 a.m.. The Court heard oral arguments on March 4 and have been formulating their decision since then.Meanwhile, anti-gay groups aren’t...
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Breast Cancer Survivors’ Awards & Dinner Is Coming
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: May 15, 2008
Sandy “Mama” Reinhardt and Mama’s Family proudly present the 8th annual Breast Cancer Survivors’ Dinner and Awards. This year this always festive event will be held on May 17th in the San Francisco War Memorial Building, Green Room, 401 Van Ness Ave., 2nd floor. In the past seven years, this...
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VICTORY FOR SAME SEX MARRIAGE IN CALIFORNIA!
By Kim Corsaro Published: May 15, 2008
We won! The California Supreme Court has ruled that there is no legitimate reason under the California constitution to limit marriage to heterosexual couples. According to the decision released at 10am this morning, in 30 days same-sex couples will have the right to marry in California.From the decision:Accordingly, in light...
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Openhouse Throws Spring Fling Benefit
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 8, 2008
Openhouse celebrated their 10th anniversary and most recent victory, the approval of their first senior housing site in San Francisco, at their 4th annual “Spring Fling” on May 4 at the St. Francis Hotel. Their mission is to ensure that LGBT people can age with dignity in their homes of...
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Marriage Equality Activist Mildred Loving Dies
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 8, 2008
Mrs. Mildred Loving would be loath to call herself a marriage equality activist, but in truth, she was just that. She and her husband were indicted and then convicted for being in an “illegal” interracial marriage in Loving v. Virginia, the groundbreaking 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision that ultimately agreed...
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Dining Out for Life
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 1, 2008
Thousands of diners and more than 90 restaurants throughout San Francisco raised a lot of money for STOP AIDS Project on April 24 during the 7th annual Dining Out for Life night. Every year, thousands of people participate in this citywide fundraiser simply by doing what San Franciscans do best...
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Youth to Demand Safety in Cal Schools
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 1, 2008
Student advocates from across California will meet at the State Capitol next week to speak with legislators and the California Superintendent of Public Instruction about the harassment of LGBT students in California schools. The youth are participating in Queer Youth Advocacy Day 2008, a three-day youth leadership summit co-sponsored by...
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Women For Mark Leno Turn Out For Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 1, 2008
A cocktail reception and fundraiser entitled, “Women for Mark Leno,” was hosted on April 23 at Medjool restaurant by Assemblymember Fiona Ma, District Attorney Kamala Harris, Supervisor Sophie Maxwell, former SF Supervisor and City Treasurer Susan Leal, DCCC member Laura Spanjian, and many other women leaders. Even though it was...
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Ammiano Assembly Campaign on Track
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 24, 2008
Supervisor Tom Ammiano is our longtime San Francisco Democratic leader who has served the City nearly three decades as a teacher, civil rights leader, educator, and Supervisor. A strong advocate for schools, health care, and civil rights, Ammiano has been at the forefront of reform in San Francisco. His campaign...
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A Fabulous Celebration for New Leaf Services
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 24, 2008
New Leaf held its annual Spring Gala at Teatro ZinZanni on April 15, a buffet awards event with entertainment by the House of More and gay deejays Greg and Fernando. Mayor Gavin Newsom officially declared it “New Leaf Day in San Francisco.” New Leaf is the non-profit multi-purpose counseling center...
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Caroline Rhea Does Women’s Community Clinic Benefit
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 24, 2008
Standup comic and actress Caroline Rhea gave a special performance at the APRIL 24 Hysteria 2008, a benefit for the Women’s Community Clinic held at the Jewish Community Center. The Clinic is a non-profit organization providing free, personalized healthcare to women and girls in San Francisco. Since 1999, the Clinic...
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Mayor Issues Letter to Conyers in Support of Medical Marijuana
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 17, 2008
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom issued a letter on April 10 to Congressman John Conyers. Jr., Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, urging investigation into the tactics of the Drug Enforcement Administration to undermine California’s state medical marijuana laws.In Newsom’s letter, the Mayor expresses his support for the State’s medical...
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Tax Day Offers Perfect Opportunity To Publicize Inequality
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 10, 2008
In advance of April 15 – “Tax Day” – the Human Rights Campaign, one of the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender civil rights organizations, launched on April 7 its national “7 Days to a Better Financial You” educational campaign. The campaign highlights the unique legal inequalities and hurdles...
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Kickoff Held For Mad Hatter’s Tea Party for AIDS Memorial
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 10, 2008
The Board of the National AIDS Memorial Grove held a kickoff party on April 3 for its annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. The venue was Carrots, a fabulous new upscale boutique in SF’s Jackson Square neighborhood. Kurt Stammberger hosted with Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Event Co-chairs, Mario Diaz (Regional Vice...
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Operation Kill Bill: LGBT Youth At Risk
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 3, 2008
Anti-gay activists want to strip away safe schools protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth that equal rights activists have worked long and hard to secure. The latest assault comes next week – when two mean-spirited bills come before the Assembly Education Committee. Join Equality California and many other...
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SF LGBT Center Roars into Its Sixth Year
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: April 3, 2008
It hardly seems like six years since the San Francisco LGBT Community Center was built; but on March 29 at Terra Gallery, the Center celebrated its 6th anniversary. An open bar and many varieties of delicious finger foods were served. Flashed on the overhead screen was a constantly changing slide...
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Grants For Arts Hosts Reception For Voluntary Arts Contribution Fund
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: April 3, 2008
They’re known in the arts community as “the little grants that make a big difference” – the monies distributed through the biennial Voluntary Arts Contribution Fund (VACF), funded entirely by contributions made by San Francisco property owners as part of their tax payments. Thanks to the generous donations of San...
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AIDS Candlelight March And Center For Sex And Culture Hold Fundraiser
By Ann Rostow Published: April 3, 2008
“Welcome to Sausageville: A Trouser â€Meat’ and Greet,” said Sister Kitty Catalyst, greeting the crowd at the Eagle tavern on March 30 during the beer and soda bust fundraiser for the AIDS Candlelight March and for The Center for Sex and Culture. “Please do not pee outside on the sidewalk,...
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CUAV Honors Champions For Change At 29th Anniversary Celebration
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 27, 2008
Community United Against Violence (CUAV) celebrated its 29th anniversary with Champions for Change, when over 225 CUAV supporters came out on March 20 at Mighty nightclub to recognize the agency’s legacy of groundbreaking work, to honor the massive contributions of three inspiring local anti-violence heroes, and to strengthen the movement...
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REAF Distributes Funds For AIDS Organizations
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: March 27, 2008
The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation (REAF) raises funds for AIDS service provider agencies, primarily in the San Francisco Bay Area, through the production of quality entertainment events. Currently REAF produces three different kinds of entertainment events: “Help is on the Way,” “Help is on the Way for the Holidays,” and its...
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Pride Ad Work Honors Veteran Union Activist Howard Wallace
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 20, 2008
At the second annual fundraiser for the Queer Youth Organizing Project (QYOP), Pride at Work honored veteran queer union activist Howard Wallace on March 13 at the SEIU 1021 offices.Pride at Work Co-chair Robert Haaland presented the Pride at Work Award to Wallace and acted as emcee, introducing various guests...
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Kyriell Noon Announced As New Executive Director Of STOP AIDS
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 20, 2008
The Board of Directors of the STOP AIDS Project has named Kyriell Noon as the Project’s new executive director. Noon, a scholar-activist who had been serving as the STOP AIDS Project’s interim program director, brings to the E.D. position several years of experience in non-profit development, fundraising, and program management,...
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Magnet Expands HIV and STI Testing
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 20, 2008
Responding to client demand, Magnet, a gay men’s health and community center, has increased its HIV and STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) testing capacity by 50%, according to Magnet’s founder and director, Steve Gibson. Magnet, which opened its doors in July 2003, and merged with the San Francisco AIDS Foundation in...
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Judge Donna Hitchens Named Woman Of The Year
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 13, 2008
The California State Assembly recognized Judge Donna J. Hitchens’ extraordinary accomplishments on March 10 as a Presiding Judge for the Superior Court of San Francisco County, by naming her Assembly District 13’s “Woman of the Year.” During her career, Judge Hitchens has worked tirelessly to improve low and moderate-income people’s...
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Convention to Save Rent Control in State Happens this Week
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 13, 2008
With a measure intended for the June statewide ballot to repeal rent control in the offing, the fight to save rent control kicked off in San Francisco on Jan. 19. At that time, a citywide gathering of tenants planned and initiated what to do in San Francisco to defeat the...
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Milk Library Closes For Renovation
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 13, 2008
The Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library closed for renovation on March 1. The branch hosted a celebratory closing party that day. The Jules Broussard Trio and other local favorites provided entertainment at this festive event. The community also honored former Library Commissioner Steve Coulter for his years of service...
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Pride Committee Taking Applications for Grants to be Awarded Community Groups
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 6, 2008
Applications for the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee’s (SFLGBTPCC) grant-giving Community Partners Program are now being accepted for the 2008 event, the Pride Committee has announced. Not-for-Profit organizations from the nine counties of the Bay Area are invited to apply. Applications are available online on the Pride website at...
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GLBT Contingents at the SF Chinese New Year Parade
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 28, 2008
The San Francisco Chinese New Year Parade was held on Saturday, Feb. 23. GAPA (Gay Asian and Pacific Islander Alliance) made its 10th appearance at the Parade honoring the Year of the Rat. The theme of GAPA’s float was “Coming Out, Coming Home: A Family Portrait.” The float featured a...
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Community Pride Forum Open To All
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 28, 2008
 People of color, elders, youth, the deaf, the hard-of-hearing, folks concerned about accessibility, leather/kink community members, bears, people of faith, families, queers, and all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and allied members of our communities are encouraged to attend The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Community’s “Community Pride Forum” on Saturday,...
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Sharing Wireless Connections In The Castro: Cher And Share Alike
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: February 28, 2008
A handsome man dressed in a colorful maroon and gold matador costume, calling himself what sounded like “Jose Nacharito,” circulated Moby Dick bar on Feb. 12, handing out business cards for “Free WiFi for a Day.” Close behind him was drag queen extraordinaire Suppositori Spelling dressed and wigged like Cher....
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SF Supervisors Postpone Resolution Protecting Pot Club Landlords for Feds and DEA
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 14, 2008
Patient advocates from Axis of Love SF, the SF Patients’ Co-op, Americans for Safe Access (ASA), and the Marin Alliance for Medical Marijuana stood for cannabis justice on Feb. 12 at San Francisco City Hall. Patients held out for hours to hear if the resolution from the Board of Supervisors...
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EQCA Celebrates 10 Yrs of Making History
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 14, 2008
Equality California (EQCA) celebrated their 10th anniversary on Feb. 9 at SF City Hall, where they held the San Francisco Equality Awards black tie dinner honoring Evan Wolfson and Theresa Sparks. Wolfson is the founder and executive director of Freedom to Marry and one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential...
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Milk Film Rules the Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 7, 2008
Brings Back The Times of Harvey Milk
Hundreds of volunteers signed up to be a part of history on Feb. 4 as extras in the Milk movie about Supervisor Harvey Milk being filmed in the Castro. Producer Dan Jinks welcomed the crowd in the Castro Theatre who were about...
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Not Only Valentine’s Day, But Also Freedom To Marry Day Is Coming!
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 7, 2008
Just before Valentine’s Day, “Freedom to Marry Day,” Tuesday, Feb. 12, is a day to celebrate and share LGBT stories, reflecting on the values of equality and love, while also engaging neighbors in the movement for equality and fairness. For the many thousands across the country looking for a way...
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Heroes & Hearts for SF General
By Albert Goodwyn Published: February 7, 2008
For Valentine’s Day, the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation will be auctioning off hearts for our city’s safety-net hospital. The event will be a luncheon in a tent in Union Square. There will be six large hearts and 12 tabletop hearts. As an example of how much the Foundation might...
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Krewe De Kinque Throws Fabulous Fundraising Ball
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: February 7, 2008
Even though Mardi Gras arrives early this year, Krewe de Kinque was ready with its annual charity Bal Masque on Sat., Feb. 2 at the War Memorial’s Green Room. The “Viva Las Vegas” theme was played out with elaborate costumes, musical productions, and a winning hand for the beneficiary, St....
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Bay Times Election Endorsements: Barack Obama for President
By Kim Corsaro Published: January 31, 2008
The California primary matters this year like it's never mattered before. This coming Tuesday's vote could literally serve to elect the next President of the United States. Poll numbers are shifting by the minute, and in this ever-so-hotly contested election, every vote carries a premium of importance.No presidency has been...
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Leno to Introduce Bill To Make Harvey Milk’s Birthday a State Holiday
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 31, 2008
Assemblyman Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) and Equality California (EQCA) will be announcing plans on Feb 1 to introduce a measure that would formally recognize the efforts of civil rights pioneer, San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk. The bill would establish a non-fiscal state holiday in his name on the anniversary of...
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Marriage Equality Activists Strategize on Bringing Marriage Rights Support to the Massses
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 31, 2008
 Equal rights supporters gathered at the LGBT Community Center on Jan. 28 to discuss the latest statewide strategy towards obtaining same-sex marriage. Featured speakers included Executive Director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) Kate Kendell; Executive Director of Equality California Institute (EQCA) Geoff Kors; Horizons Foundation Executive Director...
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Threat Level: Lavender Features Queer Activists at Library
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 31, 2008
 “San Francisco Values” was a phrase utilized by pundits to attack House Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) prior to her ascension to Speaker of the House, and before that as a means of attacking immigrant-supportive communities. But what does this phrase mean and which values is it meant to reference? Is...
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MSRA Staph Is NOT a Gay Disease!
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 24, 2008
“A third of ALL people have staph on their bodies” Magnet held a highly educational, informational forum on Jan. 22 entitled “MRSA and Gay Men: A Community Conversation at Magnet” with three authorities on the bacterial infection: Magnet’s Medical Director Chris Hall, MD; Chip Chambers, MD, co-author of a recent...
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Affordable Housing for LGBT Seniors Launched at 55 Laguna
By Ann Rostow Published: January 24, 2008
A coalition of business, nonprofit, and government organizations have come together in an innovative partnership to build the first affordable housing facilities that are expressly welcoming to San Francisco’s LGBT seniors. Openhouse – a nonprofit community-based organization founded ten years ago to provide housing, services, and community programs for the...
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The Castro Prepares For Harvey Milk Film
Published: January 24, 2008
The Anchor Restaurant is still open for business, as storefronts in the Castro are being remade to their â€70s facades in preparation for filming the biography of Harvey Milk. Thousands of extras are still needed to recreate the Memorial March on the night of Milk’s assasination. Be a part of...
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Record Rally for AIDS Lifecycle
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 17, 2008
Hundreds of Bay Area residents joined the fight against HIV/AIDS on Jan. 13 by registering as 223 cyclists and 46 roadies for AIDS/LifeCycle 7, a 545-mile, seven-day journey down the California coast to Los Angeles beginning on June 1 and ending June 7. The registration party took place at The...
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SF Parade Opens Nominations For 2008 Grand Marshals
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 10, 2008
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee (SFLGBTPCC) announced on Jan. 8 that nominations are now officially open for Community Grand Marshals for this year’s San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration and Parade. Members of the community are invited to nominate individuals and organizations for this prestigious honor, as well as...
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Pink Triangle Memorial Desecrated by Nazi Graffiti
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 10, 2008
Sometime in the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 2, someone vandalized the Pink Triangle Memorial Park at the intersection of 17th and Castro Streets. Nine swastikas and other Nazi graffiti were sprayed on the granite pylons and the bronze plaques that form the heart of this memorial to the LGBT victims...
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Milk Bio-Drama To Begin Production in The Castro This Month
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 3, 2008
Academy Award nominated director Gus Van Sant will commence production in January this year on the biographical drama Milk, to star Academy Award winner Sean Penn as gay rights icon Harvey Milk. Milk will be produced by Dan Jinks and Bruce Cohen, the Academy Award winning producers of American Beauty,...
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Eros Releases New Gay Sex Guide Resource
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 6, 2007
The venerable and popular safe sex club, EROS at 2051 Market Street, is celebrating their 15th anniversary by rolling out a new back pocket guide to gay sexual health. The postcard size resource was developed during the summer, utilizing an intern from Antioch College who is a graduate of the...
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Gay And Lesbian Victory Fund Backs Winners
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 22, 2007
General Manager of the SF Public Utilities Commission, Susan Leal, hosted a fundraiser in her home for the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund and Leadership Institute on Nov. 19. “The Victory Fund has been there for our community for a long time and has been really stalwart,” she said, and...
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Bay Times Theatre Critic Gene Price
Published: November 15, 2007
Eugene L. Price April 21, 1923 - November 6, 2007
Eugene L. Price (“Gene” to all who knew him) passed away peacefully at his home on Nov. 6. A long-time resident of SF, he expressed his avid love of the arts as a publicist, producer, writer, and journalist. For...
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AMFAR Awards Gala Celebrates Courage
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 8, 2007
The San Francisco community came out on Nov. 1 to support amfAR, the Foundation for AIDS Research, which is one of the world’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. Since 1985, amfAR has invested...
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All’s Quiet for Castro Halloween
Published: November 8, 2007
The annual Halloween children’s parade on Castro Street was still allowed to go forward, but that was it for sanctioned events in the neighborhood. Later that night, quiet reigned, as the City’s official efforts to shut down the traditional Halloween night party were successful, if you consider the end of...
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Newsom Wins in a Landslide - Surprise!
By Kim Corsaro Published: November 8, 2007
After an extremely quiet uncontested election in San Francisco on Tuesday, Nov. 6, Mayor Gavin Newsom, District Attorney Kamala Harris and Sheriff Mike Hennessey were easily returned to office. Newsom coasted to a second term largely based on his overwhelming popularity with The City’s LGBT community, and his early support...
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PAWS Celebrates 20 Years of Pet Care
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 25, 2007
PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support) celebrated its 20th anniversary by hosting a benefit gala on Oct. 17 at the historic Federal Reserve building. Co-hosted by legendary San Francisco clothier Wilkes Bashford and celebrated author of Tails of Devotion: a Look at the Bond Between People and Their Pets, Emily Scott...
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New Website Asks What Are You Doing On Halloween?
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 18, 2007
Part of SF’s Office Attempt to Shut Down the Castro
What are you doing for Halloween? The Home for Halloween Web site has been set up for residents to post their plans via online video. Although San Francisco has had a year to solicit public opinion via the usual...
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16th Annual Leather Walk Benefits AEF And BCEF
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 20, 2007
On Sunday, Sept. 23, the 16th annual Leather Pride Walk will take off from Harvey Milk Plaza. The 7th annual Raising of the Leather Flag - temporarily replacing the Rainbow Pride Flag for seven days - will signify that Leather Week has officially begun, climaxing in the Folsom Street Fair....
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SF LGBT Community Center’s Director Thom Lynch Announces Departure
Published: August 16, 2007
Wednesday, Aug. 15 was Thom Lynch’s last official day on the job as Executive Director of the San Francisco LGBT Community Center, as he departed to pursue other opportunities. Lynch’s legacy of leadership and accomplishments as The Center’s longest-serving Executive Director, who brought The Center out of financial and social...
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Sisters Hold Grants Distribution
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 2, 2007
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. held another beer bust at the Eagle on July 22 to publicly distribute money collected at their Pink Saturday gates in the form of grants to various organizations. A chief mission of The Sisters is the raising of funds for small, nonprofit agencies. Since...
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Dykes On Bikes Wins Landmark Trademark Case
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 19, 2007
The San Francisco Women’s Motorcycle Contingent has announced that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C., issued a final ruling last week affirming the group’s trademark of the name “Dykes on Bikes.” The Court of Appeals rejected the argument that the name “Dykes on Bikes”...
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Gay Men’s Chorus Sings for the Padres
Published: July 19, 2007
The Gay Men's Chorus of San Diego sang The Star-Spangled Banner at the July 8 San Diego Padres game at Petco Park. Christians from the blue-collar suburb of El Cajon had raised a stink before game day, denouncing the Padres for welcoming the chorus and a group of 1,000 gay...
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PRIDE 2007
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: June 21, 2007
It’s All Happening Pride Sunday!The sound of roaring thunder on June 24th at 10:30 a.m. will be none other than the Women’s Motorcycle Contingent, or what used to be called Dykes on Bikes, taking off. With that noise, you’ll know the 37th annual LGBT Pride Parade, “Pride, not Prejudice,” has...
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Pink Triangle to Appear At Top of Twin Peaks
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 21, 2007
Friends of the Pink Triangle is a small group of volunteers who, on a tiny budget, construct a gigantic pink triangle on Twin Peaks every year. It can be seen for 20 miles and is a sight to behold while marching down Market Street in the Pride Parade. The Pink...
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Tenderloin Health is One Year Old
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 14, 2007
Tenderlon Health celebrated its first anniversary of serving over 18,000 unduplicated clients throughout the year. They held an awards event at the Clift Hotel on June 5. “These are tough times,” said Master of Ceremonies Supervisor Bevan Dufty. “Right now San Francisco is facing some pretty significant cuts in the...
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Project Open Hand Has Dessert First
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 14, 2007
Project Open Hand presented their 7th annual “Dessert First” fundraiser at W hotel San Francisco on June 10 to the delight of the lovers of sweets. The event plays a unique part of Project Open Hand’s history, paying tribute to an extraordinary team of Bay Area pastry chefs. Gregg Cochran,...
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Ammiano Kicks Off Campaign For California Assembly
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 7, 2007
Supervisor Tom Ammiano is a long-time San Francisco Democratic leader who has served the City nearly three decades as a teacher, civil rights leader, educator, and supervisor. A strong advocate for schools, health care, and civil rights, Ammiano has been at the forefront of reform in San Francisco. His campaign...
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Shanti Celebrates 33 Years Serving Critically Ill People
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 7, 2007
Shanti, the 33-year-old nonprofit based in San Francisco, held its fundraiser, “Embracing Wellness Gala,” in Fort Mason’s Golden Gate Room on May 31. It featured mistresses of ceremonies Connie Champagne and Anita Cocktail accompanied by the Twilight Vixen Revue, all serving up an evening of comedy and fiery wit. There...
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Sha’ar Zahav Celebrates Three Decades of Jewish Diversity
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 24, 2007
Congregation Sha’ar Zahav (CSZ) held its 30-year anniversary celebration entitled, “The Chosen Party,” on May 17 at the Galleria Design Center. CSZ is a progressive reform synagogue, established in 1977 and located in the Castro district. The congregation is comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and heterosexual Jews - together...
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Asian and Pacific Islander HIV Awareness Day Celebrated
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 24, 2007
Surgeon General Kenneth P. Moritsugu joined Asian & Pacific Islander (A&PI) Wellness Center to celebrate its 20th anniversary of providing services to A&PI communities and to commemorate the 3rd Annual National Asian & Pacific Islander (A&PI) HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on May 19 at the Metreon Fourth Floor Terrace. In honor...
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Sparks Is First Trans Person to Lead Major Commission
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 17, 2007
This week, the San Francisco Police Commission elected openly-transgender Commissioner Theresa Sparks as the new President of the Commission. Sparks, who joined the commission in 2004, has a long history of advocating for the transgender community, including working on a set of transgender-specific policy reforms adopted by the Police Commission...
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AIDS Walk SF Holds Kickoff Reception
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 17, 2007
On May 9, AIDS Walk San Francisco took the first step toward continuing last year’s record-setting success with a kickoff reception and awards presentation signaling the launch of the 21st year of the event in the City. More than 300 of the AIDS Walk’s top participants and supporters were given...
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Transgender Economic Empowerment Initiative
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 10, 2007
The San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center, Jewish Vocational Services (JVS), San Francisco Transgender Empowerment Advocacy & Mentorship (SFTEAM), and the Transgender Law Center (TLC) announced a first-of-its-kind program to reduce chronic unemployment and underemployment within the transgender community. Trans activists and their friends gathered on April 26...
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Magnet and Stonewall Join Forces with SF AIDS Foundation
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 10, 2007
The San Francisco AIDS Foundation announced that the Stonewall Project and Magnet - two established community health programs that serve gay men in San Francisco - will formally unite with the San Francisco AIDS Foundation on July 1, 2007. The three groups held a reception on May 7 at Magnet...
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Maitri Brings The Bliss
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 10, 2007
Maitri celebrated its 20th anniversary with a fundraiser known as “Bliss: A Legacy of Love and Compassion” at the Fort Mason Officers’ Club on May 6, honoring its founder, Issan Dorsey. The annual Bliss event is designed to be a remembrance of past events our community has experienced as well...
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Leno Names Guy's Flowers 2007 Small Business of the Year
Published: May 3, 2007
African-American and gay owned business in the Castro, Guy's Flowers, which was the target of a hate crime in January, has been a neighborhood staple for 25 years. On Wednesday, Assemblyman Mark Leno honored florist Guy Clark, owner of the shop, with the Small Business of the Year award at...
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Theresa Sparks Sworn in Again as Police Commissioner
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 3, 2007
Theresa Sparks, Good Vibrations president and CEO, was sworn in on April 26th for a second four-year term as a member of the San Francisco Police Commission. The Board of Supervisors confirmed Sparks’ re- appointment to the Police Commission last week in a unanimous vote of confidence. Attended by a...
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California Right Wing Attacks LGBT Rights
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 3, 2007
Equality California has learned of two separate attacks on the LGBT community. On May 1st in Sacramento, a group calling itself VoteYesMarriage.com filed a proposal with the Attorney General’s office proposing a ballot initiative that would ask voters in California to amend the State Constitution to ban marriage for same-sex...
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Immune Enhancement Project Open House Highlights Service
By Dennis McMillan Published: May 3, 2007
Immune Enhancement Project held their annual open house celebration on April 27. This community-building event was an opportunity for clients, staff, volunteers, friends, and collaborating agencies to get to know IEP better, and to join together in celebrating their commitment of providing affordable complementary healthcare to the community. Elan LaLonde,...
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Lambda Legal Celebrates At Asian Art Museum
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 26, 2007
Lambda Legal celebrated its 34th anniversary at the Asian Art Museum on April 17. Lambda Legal is a national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of LGBT people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education, and public policy work. Located in Los Angeles, the Western...
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New Leaf Holds Spring Gala
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 12, 2007
New Leaf Services held their annual gala at Teatro Zinzanni on April 9 to celebrate their accomplishments and to raise money for all of the critical services they provide to members of the LGBT community across the age spectrum from youth to seniors. This year they have expanded their youth...
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AB 43 Overwhelmingly Passes Assembly Judiciary Committee
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 12, 2007
Members of the Assembly Judiciary Committee on April 10 passed AB 43, legislation giving same-sex couples the choice to marry in California. Authored by Assemblymember Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, and sponsored by the statewide LGBT civil rights advocacy organization, Equality California, the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection gives all...
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Egg-Zactly How You’ll Want To Spend Your Easter!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: April 5, 2007
Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Celebrate 28 Years of Habit-ual NaughtinessEaster time is almost here! That special time of year when all the queer guys are anxious to show off their big baskets and everyone wants to wear outrageous bonnets. It’s also the time when the Easter Nunny comes hippity hoppin’...
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ACT UP Is 20 Years Old and AIDS Is Still Killing People
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 5, 2007
AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power, better known by its acronym, ACT UP, held a demonstration in the Castro to commemorate its 20th anniversary of AIDS activism. The statistics on AIDS according to the CDC are a horror story: 437,982 people living with AIDS in the United States; 623,807 people living...
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Mama Hosts Breast Cancer Emergency Fund Dinner
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: April 5, 2007
In April 2001, after several years of research and input from the community, AIDS Emergency Fund launched a new initiative, Breast Cancer Emergency Fund (BCEF). Modeled on the successful work of AEF in providing direct financial assistance to low-income San Franciscans fighting HIV/AIDS, BCEF is able to provide emergency financial...
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BALIF Celebrates Holiday with Christine Chavez
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 5, 2007
Bay Area Lawyers for Individual Freedom (BALIF) held their 27th annual dinner at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero on March 30, Cesar Chavez Day. In recognition of the holiday, Cesar Chavez’s granddaughter Christine Chavez delivered the keynote address. BALIF is the nation’s oldest and largest bar association of lesbians, gay men,...
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GLAAD Continues to Watch Media
By Dennis McMillan Published: April 5, 2007
Groundbreaking award-winning films such as Brokeback Mountain, Transamerica, and Capote. Award-winning TV series such as The L-Word and Queer as Folk. The cartoon daughter coming out lesbian momentarily on Family Guy. Reality shows with ordinary people coming out on TV. Sports figures coming out loud and proud. Director Ang Lee....
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Community United Against Violence Celebrates 28 Years Of Working to Keep Us Safe
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 29, 2007
The LGBTQ movement is at a turning point. So says the director of Community United Against Violence (CUAV), Jovida Guevara-Ross. Founded in 1979, CUAV is the nation’s oldest LGBT anti-violence organization, devoted to preventing and addressing violence against and within the diverse queer communities.When CUAV first started, the organization could...
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STOP AIDS Project Promotes Safety In Cyberspace
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 29, 2007
The STOP AIDS Project will hold an Internet personal safety workshop on Wednesday April 4 to help address what some are calling an increase in crimes originating via online hook-up sites for gay and bisexual men. “There is a degree of trust involved in inviting someone home that you’ve just...
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BattleCry Fundies Harrass San Francisco
By Kevin Davis Published: March 15, 2007
The Texas-based Ron Luce brought his backhanded Christian love to the city last week, along with more than 20,000 young followers for a Friday afternoon Civic Center rally and Saturday AT&T rock concert and rally against pop culture’s romance of sex and drugs. Although anti-gay language was never expressed...
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Community Center Celebrates 5th Anniversary
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 15, 2007
This year’s fifth anniversary celebration of the SF LGBT Community Center took place on March 10th at Terra Art Gallery and featured disco diva Evelyn “Champagne” King headlining a night of dancing, food, and fun. Flashed on the wall was a huge slide show of people and events at the...
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Funding The Epidemic During the Bush Administration
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 15, 2007
Project Inform – the national, nonprofit, community-based organization working to end the AIDS epidemic — informs us that Congress has finally passed a “continuing resolution,” which will fund health programs until Sept. 30 (end of Fiscal Year 2007). Advocates had pushed hard for increases in all titles of the Ryan...
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Laura Spanjian Honored At Women Making History Awards
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 15, 2007
The San Francisco Commission on the Status of Women presented the annual “Women Making History” awards ceremony in the Board of Supervisors chambers on March 6, which was also televised on Channel 29. Among the honorees was our own openly lesbian Laura Spanjian. Board President Aaron Peskin called the ceremony...
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Clash of the Titans
By Kim Corsaro Published: March 8, 2007
So it has come to pass: On Friday, March 2, 2007, Assemblyman Mark Leno declared that he has entered the race for state senate. Under ordinary circumstances, this would be cause for great celebration in our community: a much-loved, well-respected, hard-working openly gay politician who has ably represented the GLBT...
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REAF Surpasses $2 Million in Grants Given
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 8, 2007
On March 5, the Richmond Ermet AIDS Foundation held a check presentation party / 2007 kickoff for future REAF shows, which featured Erich Bergen, star of Jersey Boys, singing and playing piano. After cocktail hour in the foyer, the guests took their seats in the lounge. REAF producers and executive...
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A Touch of Pink in The Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 1, 2007
A dozen Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence donned work clothes and joined community volunteers at the Pink Triangle Memorial Park to spread 500 pounds of new rose quartz crystals in order to renew and replenish the pink triangle at the heart of this sacred space. The park, opened in 2003, is...
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Opening Up Historical Society’s Porn Archives
By Dennis McMillan Published: March 1, 2007
The GLBT Historical Society honored the adult erotic industry with its History of Porn reception on Feb. 22 at the Society’s headquarters. The event, being held just prior to the opening reception of the GayVN Awards, featured a mini-exhibit of gay erotica gems from the GLBT Historical Society’s extensive collection...
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Third Anniversary of Special Marriages Celebrated in SF
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 16, 2007
February 12th marked the third anniversary of the City’s efforts to provide same-sex couples the ability to join in matrimony. Therefore Mayor Gavin Newsom and Marriage Equality USA invited the public to a reception in the Rotunda of City Hall on that date to once again come together and celebrate...
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Under One Roof Hosts Fabulous Gourmet Food & Wine Sale
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 15, 2007
A gourmet event is set to take place in the former Tower Records location in the Castro and will include daily wine tastings and an extensive packaged food product selection. The Annual Gourmet Food and Wine Sale is hosted by Under One Roof, a San Francisco-based non-profit that generates unrestricted...
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Equality California Celebrates Victories At City Hall Rotunda
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 15, 2007
The past year was one of the most successful for Equality California and the state’s LGBT community. In 2006, EQCA sponsored nine pieces of legislation, all of which the Legislature passed. Seven of those measures went into law this year, giving GLBT Californians many more legal protections and rights. The...
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Activists Protest for Freedom to Marry On Valentine’s Day
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 8, 2007
On Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, at local marriage counters around the nation, Marriage Equality USA chapters and their allies will host the eighth annual marriage counter event in support of marriage equality for same-sex couples. “We engage in this annual event to put a local face on marriage discrimination...
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GLBT Historical Society Welcomes Paul Boneberg as New E.D.
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 8, 2007
The Northern California GLBT Historical Society held a reception on Feb 1 at their headquarters in the Mission for the new executive director, Paul Boneberg. Board Chair and Event Co-chair Don Romesburg welcomed everyone and introduced his fellow Co-chair and Board Secretary Denise Bellotti. “When you look back at the...
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Pride Committee Taking Applications For Grants
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 8, 2007
Annual Community Partners Program Celebrates a Decade of Giving
Applications for the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee’s (SF Pride) grant-giving Community Partners Program are now being accepted for the 2007 event, SF Pride announced. Non-profit organizations from the nine counties of the Bay Area are invited to apply....
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Mister GAPAs Dominate New GAPA Board Of Directors
By Dennis McMillan Published: February 1, 2007
The Gay Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) held a general election and volunteer appreciaton party at the Eureka Valley Community Center on Jan. 27. There was plenty of delicious Chinese food and dance music for the nearly 100 GAPA members, volunteers, supporters, and allies. During the first half of the event,...
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Gay-Straight Alliance Goes Blonde
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: February 1, 2007
The Human Rights Campaign returns to Fashion Week this year with the release of its “Heatherette Hearts HRC” shirt designed exclusively for the Human Rights Campaign by celebrated design duo Traver Rains and Richie Rich of the Heatherette fashion label. The “Heatherette Hearts HRC” shirt will debut as a gift...
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First Ever Transgender Administrative Law Judge Sworn In
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 25, 2007
Transgender Law Center board member and long-time civil rights advocate, Victoria Kolakowski, was sworn in as the state’s first openly transgender Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), making her among eight new ALJs sworn in by Angela K. Minkin, Chief Administrative Law Judge of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Despite...
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Bidding Mike Marshall Farewell From Under One Roof
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 25, 2007
Staff members, volunteers, and friends of Under One Roof Executive Director Mike Marshall gathered in the store to wish him well as he leaves his position there. “We’re here tonight to thank Mike for his two years of service,” said Deana Dawn, operations manager at Under One Roof. “And now...
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Desperate Divas Are Cheap Dates at Calendar Signing Photo by Rink
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 25, 2007
Several of the delicious, delightful divas from the 2007 Desperate Divas Calendar hosted “Cheap Date: a Calendar Signing Event” at Under One Roof on Jan. 20. The festivities were hosted by Miss November Diva Deana Dawn and featured Miss Desperate Diva 2007 Garza Peru, Miss January Starr, and Desperate Divas...
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L Word Stars Kick Off Season in SF
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 18, 2007
Curve, the nation’s best-selling lesbian magazine, rang in the new year with a whole new role: the magazine and its staff made a guest appearance on the Jan. 14 episode of Showtime’s popular lesbian drama, The L Word. In the spotlight for 17 years, Curve has been named Best Gay...
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Finalists in Milk Memorial Competition Unveiled at City Hall
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 18, 2007
Plans to install a sculpture of slain Supervisor Harvey Milk in City Hall are moving along. The competition among artists who have submitted their ideas is now down to three finalists: Bruce Wolfe, Cedric Wentworth, and The Daub, Firmin and Hendrickson Sculpture Group. They are all from the San Francisco...
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Gay-Straight Alliance Features Legally Blonde Fundraiser
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 18, 2007
As the Gay-Straight Alliance Network prepares to move into their ninth year supporting 600 Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) clubs in California schools, they are pulling out all the stops for a world premiere fundraising extravaganza on Jan. 25 at the Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor Street. Thanks to a tiered-ticket structure,...
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Pride Parade Opens Grand Marshal
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 18, 2007
As the saying goes, “I love a parade.” And what makes a parade even more spectacular are the Grand Marshals. So the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee (SFLGBTPCC) has announced that nominations are now officially open for Grand Marshals of this year’s Pride Parade. Members of the community are...
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LGBT Advisory Committee of San Francisco Human Rights Commission Seeks Members
Published: January 11, 2007
San Francisco Human Rights Commission is seeking new members to serve on one of the Commission’s most active committees. One of four standing committees, the LGBTAC identifies and addresses the issues and concerns of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and HIV-affected communities in San Francisco and advises the Commission on...
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Sisters Conduct Final 2006 Darshan
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: January 4, 2007
According to the Wikipedia, darshan is a Sanskrit term (also used to some extent in Urdu) meaning “sight (in the sense of an instance of seeing something or somebody), vision, apparition, or a glimpse.” It is most commonly used for visions of the divine; that is, of a god or...
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Sixty-Year-Old Medical Cannabis Patient To Be Jailed
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 4, 2007
“I am not a criminal. I’m a mom and a medical marijuana patient, and I was trying to help others,” stated Stephanie Landa, 60-year old, non-violent mother and caregiver to her elderly mother. Landa will begin a 41-month prison sentence on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 12pm. She has been charged...
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Magnet Gets Funds To Hire Medical Directo
By Dennis McMillan Published: January 4, 2007
An anonymous donor once again issued a challenge to match every private donation to Magnet received during the month of December, dollar-for-dollar. Supporters of Magnet, the health center and community space for gay men in the Castro, responded generously, donating a total of $25,000, surpassing the initial $20,000 goal. With...
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California Supreme Court Has Granted Review In Marriage Cases
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 28, 2006
Court to Decide Whether Same-Sex Couples Can Legally Wed
When the California Supreme Court unanimously decided to grant review in the California marriage cases seeking to remove the current ban on marriage for same-sex couples, queer activists got excited. Opening briefs are due Jan. 19, 2007, when further progress...
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Project Open Hand Serves Up 15th Annual Luncheon
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 28, 2006
Over 100 volunteers at Project Open Hand serve 2,400 meals a day (nearly 800,000 a year) and distribute 1,500 bags of groceries every day – regardless of earthquakes, storms and power outages. Hand to Hand Luncheon, Project Open Hand’s premier annual event, raises more than $300,000 for Open Hand’s nutrition...
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Sisters Hand Out Saturnalia Grants
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 28, 2006
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. held their thrice-a-year grants distribution ceremony, this year entitled, “Saturnalia Grants,” at Harvey’s on Winter Solstice, Dec. 21. Sisters Dionna Cross, Mary Peter, Mary Juanita High, and Bella de Ball did the distributing duties on stage. Sister Bella provided entertainment in singing live her...
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Happy Holidays to All!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: December 21, 2006
Yule-Logged “What the hell is Yule-logged?” I hear you queers query, and I answer quite contritely [not really, I just kinda liked the way it worked into the rhyme scheme], it’s like being waterlogged, only you don’t go down the third time and finally meet your watery death - NO,...
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Winning Holiday Designs Shine For the Castro’s “Deck the Halls”
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 21, 2006
In San Francisco this year, “Deck the Halls” took on new meaning in the Castro neighborhood with a merchants-sponsored design competition for neighbors and businesses. The three-person judging panel juggled clipboards and umbrellas on Dec. 8 and 9 as they surveyed more than 40 entries in the contest sponsored by...
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Ammiano Kicks Off Campaign for Assembly
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 14, 2006
A group of friends and supporters held a festive reception on Dec. 6 at the SF LGBT Community Center for Tom Ammiano for Assembly. The supervisor took the podium to declare, “They said it couldn’t be done, but we did it!” He then read off a laundry list of victories...
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Tree of Hope on Display at City Hall
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 14, 2006
The Tree of Hope was lit during a unique and boisterous Mayor’s event at City Hall that brought members of the LGBT community, the Japanese-American community, and religious leaders together. Over 120 people had folded origami, and it took over 600 hours to put the whole project together. The ceremony...
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Police Raid Trauma Flintstone’s Show
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: December 14, 2006
From the faux police blotter comes breaking news. On Dec. 10, 2006, at Martuni’s, 4 Valencia at Market, approximately 8 pm, police raided the known hangout for homosexuals and their perverted friend during a drag cabaret called Bijou, hosted by Trauma Flintstone. The joint was raided by police looking for...
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Folsom Street Events Announces Grants Availability
Published: December 14, 2006
The Board of Directors of Folsom Street Events announced that a revised grant application is available for potential beneficiaries of the 2007 fair season. Proceeds from Up Your Alley, Magnitude, and Folsom Street Fair will benefit nonprofit agencies that serve the community in the areas of public health, human services,...
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Leno Reintroduces Marriage Protection Act for 2007
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 7, 2006
Renewing efforts to end the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage in California, Assemblyman Mark Leno, reintroduced the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act. The bill, sponsored by Equality California (EQCA), would allow same-sex couples to legally wed in California.“All loving, committed couples deserve not only the legal protections...
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December 1 World AIDS Day Commemorated In The Grove
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 7, 2006
Since 1988, each first of December has signified a day of remembrance and contemplation to communities throughout the globe regarding HIV/AIDS. Established by the World Health Organization, World AIDS Day is the one day each year intended to honor all the people whose lives have been touched by AIDS. This...
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900,000 at Tree Lighting in The Castro, Says Sachet
By Dennis McMillan Published: December 7, 2006
Shopping season got under way in one of the city’s most creative districts with the Castro Holiday Kickoff on Nov. 29 at Harvey Milk Plaza. A stunning 25-foot tall holiday tree decorated in copper and blue ornaments was lighted by Assemblyman Mark Leno, Emcee Donna Sachet, and Energy 92.7FM radio...
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Assemblyman Laird Introduces Civil Rights Act Of 2007
Published: December 7, 2006
On Dec. 4, Assemblyman John Laird, D-Santa Cruz, introduced the Civil Rights Act of 2007, sponsored by Equality California (EQCA). The new legislation expands nondiscrimination protections for all Californians, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. AB 14 strengthens and clarifies 51 provisions in state law by making them...
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Law Study Finds High Rates Of HIV Discrimination In Healthcare
Published: December 7, 2006
The Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation Law and Public Policy has released a study showing surprisingly high rates of HIV discrimination by healthcare providers in Los Angeles County, which could be quite useful for all other major counties. The study reports findings from three “testing” studies of skilled nursing facilities,...
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Dwindling Crowd of True Believers Commemorates Historic Tragedy
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 30, 2006
Though there were fewer than a hundred participants at the annual Harvey Milk Memorial March and Rally on Nov. 27, those few who braved the 45-degree cold showed the enthusiasm of a thousand. They had gathered to preserve the memory of the first openly gay supervisor in San Francisco, Harvey...
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National Gay Rights Orgs Team Up To Create Hospital Rating
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 30, 2006
The Human Rights Campaign and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association announced a first-of-its-kind tool to rate the healthcare industry on how it treats its gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender patients and to educate the GLBT community about what to expect from healthcare providers and facilities. The Human Rights Campaign...
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John Manzon-Santos Gets A Dear John Letter
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 30, 2006
Since John Manzon-Santos, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center Executive Director, was leaving his post after ten years of service, it was only appropriate to send him a “Dear John” letter. No, not that we were breaking up with him, but rather to celebrate his decade of dedication. A fundraising...
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CCOP Launches Foot Patrols
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 23, 2006
The Castro neighborhood can breathe a little bit easier these days, now that community volunteers for Castro Community On Patrol (CCOP) have taken to the streets. After a briefing on Nov. 17, the first contingents of 12 volunteer foot patrols (two shifts of three three-member teams), armed with flashlights, whistles,...
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Rainbow World Fund To Create Holiday Tree Of Hope
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 23, 2006
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and leading LGBT charity Rainbow World Fund (RWF) are inviting people from around the world to help create a “Tree of Hope” in San Francisco’s City Hall this holiday season. The tree will be decorated with thousands of origami cranes, each displaying an individual’s wish...
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Women’s Building Holds Annual Celebration Of Craftswomen
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 23, 2006
Perfectly timed for holiday shopping, The Women’s Building 28th annual Celebration of Craftswomen will be held Nov. 25-26 and Dec. 2-3 at Herbst Pavilion at Fort Mason Center, (Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard). The show will feature a changing roster of more than 150 different artists each weekend. The Celebration...
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And Castro For All’s First Ever Gala And Awards
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 23, 2006
A Confluence of Rivers in a Very Dry Land
The LGBT Community Center Rainbow Room reflected a diversity of colors, stripes, and persuasions on Nov. 16 at the first ever Gala and Awards Presentation for San Francisco’s And Castro For All (AC4A), an independent, fiscally-sponsored project of The LGBT...
On Monday Nov. 13, attorneys representing same-sex couples, Equality California (EQCA), and Our Family Coalition asked the California Supreme Court to decide whether barring same-sex couples from marriage violates the California Constitution.The couples and organizations are represented by lead counsel from the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), Lambda Legal,...
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Real Bad XVIII Once Again Generates Record Funds
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 16, 2006
Grass Roots Gay Rights West gave away the proceeds from REAL BAD XVIII on Nov. 13 at the LGBT Community Center. Their theme was “Be bad, Do good.” Grassroots Gay Rights West (GRGR/West) announced during a gathering of supporters at the San Francisco LGBT Community Center the donation of...
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Under One Roof Sparkles At Fundraising Benefit
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 16, 2006
Wine aficionados and their friends felt right at home at the second annual “Sparkle SF” event, hosted at the St. Regis Hotel on Nov. 3 by Under One Roof, a San Francisco-based non-profit organization that generates unrestricted funding on behalf of 33 AIDS service organizations. All the proceeds from the...
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Celebrating 10 Yrs of Prop 215
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 9, 2006
On Nov. 4, the SF LGBT Community Center celebrated almost to the day the 10th anniversary of Prop. 215 with the medical marijuana initiative’s author Dennis Peron and other sponsors. Open to the public, the event, organized by veteran medical cannabis activist Wayne Justman, offered speeches, free entertainment, and refreshments....
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LGBT Veterans Honored On Veteran’s Day
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 9, 2006
 Often we forget that many, many distinguished veterans of the armed services were gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender when they served and deserve special honors for having to hide their orientation while in service. For that very reason Marriage Equality USA is speaking out. “On November 11, 2006, Veteran’s Day,...
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Dia De Los Muertos Celebrated At Community Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 9, 2006
For the third year in a row, the SF LGBT Community Center’s Latino Forum presented a Dia de los Muertos celebration (Day of the Dead) in the first and second floor lobbies of The Center. The evening featured festivity, entertainment, and food for everyone. A large altar decorated to honor...
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Bay Times Election Endorsements
By Kim Corsaro Published: November 2, 2006
VOTER ALERT: In the newsprint edition of Bay Times, the published slate card listed the wrong vote on Prop 85 in error. VOTE NO ON 85. Prop 85 requires notification of parents in the event a teen needs to have an abortion. This is a dangerous idea, wisely voted down...
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Leno Wraps Up Campaign With Pyramid Fundraiser
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 2, 2006
Assemblyman Mark Leno held a reelection for the 13th Assembly district campaign fundraiser on Oct. 26 on the 40th floor of the Transamerica Building. Steve Adams of Sterling Bank introduced the Assemblyman, saying, “I’ve known Mark before his San Francisco board of supervisors days, and I’ve always been a supporter...
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Medical Pot Rally Protests Federal Prosecutions
By Dennis McMillan Published: November 2, 2006
Axis of Love, Hemp Evolution.org, and Harvey Milk Club Cannabis Caucus held a rally and press conference for Ed Rosenthal and Richard Watts, defendants accused of illegal growing and selling of the medicinal herb. The protest was staged on Oct. 25 in front of the Phillip Burton Federal Building with...
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Queens Are Wild At Halloween Party
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: November 2, 2006
 Not only were the queens wild, but also the costumed attendees at “Queens Are Wild” casino night on Oct. 27 in the glorious Green Room. The evening was a benefit for the STOP AIDS Project to start off the Halloween weekend with Vegas-style festivities. There was live jazz music from...
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Late Night Coalition Entertains Nightclubbers and Raises $$$
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 26, 2006
The San Francisco Late Night Coalition held their first annual fundraiser at the fabulous Supperclub on Oct. 18, hosted by Sister Roma with a variety of entertainers, gourmet food and drink, and late night dancing. SFLNC is a broad-based group of activists—performers, entertainers, DJ’s, musicians, artists, community members, promoters, and...
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Be Safe This Halloween -And Always!
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 26, 2006
Responding to the ongoing series of queer attacks and rapes in the Castro, the Triangle Martial Arts Association, Community United Against Violence (CUAV), and The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. launched a program just in time for the truly frightening part of Halloween—gay bashing and hate crimes. People met in...
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Trick or Treat and GOTV with GLAAD
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 26, 2006
GLAAD, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, has a trick and a treat for activist queers and/or partygoers. First the trick. GLAAD is encouraging everyone to check out an important new initiative: the Phone Home campaign. Phone Home is an effort to inform fair-minded people—including, and perhaps most especially,...
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Project Inform Holds Evening of Hope
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 26, 2006
Project Inform’s board of directors, staff, friends, and supporters gathered together in recognition and celebration of its lifelong mission to inform, advocate for, and inspire people living with HIV/AIDS and their care providers to take effective action. Their 21st year celebration took place at the Fort Mason Officer’s Club. Chanteuse...
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Equality California Endorses Candidates
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 26, 2006
Equality California Endorses Candidates
Election Day is Nov. 7. Equality California says if we cherish our freedom, our civil rights and our equality, it’s all on the line this Election Day. EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors says, “On Nov. 7, voters like you will decide whether the lesbian, gay,...
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Under One Roof Executive Director To Leave
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 26, 2006
Mike Marshall, executive director of Under One Roof, has announced that he will step down from the position he has held since February 2005 to pursue other career opportunities. In early September, Marshall conveyed his intentions to members of the Under One Roof board of directors, and the targeted resignation...
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Community On Patrol Meets To Eradicate Hate Crimes in the Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 19, 2006
Castro resident Carlton Paul sent out mass emails and handed out flyers, “Take Back the Castro,” saying, “It is time that we step up and do what we can to make our streets safe.” His emails stated, “We need your body, clear mind, and time to take these streets back....
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Who Will Win As Most Outrageous Trike?
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 19, 2006
Novice Sister Mary Juanita High in conjunction with The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. are presenting their “Tour de Castro” tricycle race on Saturday, Oct. 21 “Tour de Castro” is not just a race, but also a bar crawl, costume contest, raffle, and most importantly a fundraiser extravaganza benefiting AIDS...
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Alice LGBT Demos Present Fall Awards
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 19, 2006
Friends and members of the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Club met at Club Eight for the Annual Fall Awards Reception, where the Alice Board of Directors honors people and organizations that build and protect our community and make Alice an effective community contributor. “This fall we have an incredibly...
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First Annual Canine Film Festival Helps PAWS
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 12, 2006
A Benefit for PAWS In possibly the most dog-friendly city in the country, the First Annual Canine Film Festival came to the Castro Theatre for the weekend of October 7-8. It was the first major dog film festival in the United States and celebrated the important roles that dogs have...
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California Court to Gay Community: Get Lost
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 12, 2006
State Court of Appeals Nixes Same Sex MarriageIn a two-to-one decision, the State Appeal Court ruled on Oct. 5 that California’s ban on same-sex marriage is Constitutional. Two judges decided California’s marriage laws are fair, because the state’s domestic partner laws give same-sex couples rights. Those two said it was...
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National Coming Out Day Shows Progress Toward Equality
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 12, 2006
70% Of Heterosexuals Now Know Someone GayTwo studies were released on Oct. 11, as Americans nationwide commemorated National Coming Out Day. The two new studies show that more Americans are becoming personally acquainted with the GLBT community, and thereby, are also increasingly becoming more supportive of equality. These two new...
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Comics Say Give Bush The Boot!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 12, 2006
What do a Puerto Rican, a metro-sexual, a short Jewish woman, and a bi-racial lesbian have in common? The 3rd annual “George Bush Going Away Party: An Evening of Political Comedy,” of course. Kung Pao Kosher Comedy presents the 3rd Annual “George Bush Going Away Party: An Evening of Political...
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The History Project Celebrates with Billie Jean King and Esera Tuaolo
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 5, 2006
Out-standing lives of courage—Billie Jean King and Esera Tuaoloo—were celebrated at the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Historical Society during “A Home for Our History” honoring these former professional sports greats with the Walker Award. The GLBT Historical Society’s 22nd Annual Awards Gala was held on Sept. 28 at Terra. Named...
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Governor Signs Most LGBT Bills, Vetoes One
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 5, 2006
Governor Arnold Schwarzeneg-ger has signed AB 2800, the Civil Rights Housing Act of 2006, authored by Assemblymember John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) and co-sponsored by Equality California and the California Conference of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The measure standardizes various California housing laws...
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SF Gay Men’s Community Initiative Forum Bridges the Poz/Neg Divide
By Paul E. Pratt Published: October 5, 2006
The Gay Men Community Initiative more or less stumbled on the need for its most recent forum by accident. According to Doug Sebesta, a discussion hosted by the grassroots community-building organization ten months ago sparked heated discourse about terms such as “disability queen,” a primarily negative reference to an individual...
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Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 5, 2006
Coming Out Day Is October 11thAs the country looks to celebrate National Coming Out Day on October 11, a day set aside every year to honor gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight Americans living openly and supporting equality, the Human Rights Campaign is proud to announce the participation of Grammy...
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Horizons Celebrates 26th Year
By Dennis McMillan Published: October 5, 2006
Horizons Foundation’s annual gala celebrated its 26th year at San Francisco’s historic Regency Center on Sept. 30 for an evening (entitled: “Reaching New Horizons”) of live entertainment, tasty food, and delicious beverages. Attendees enjoyed the Paula West Quintet, featuring the acclaimed jazz chanteuse, and the stylish vocals and piano work...
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AIDS Housing Alliance Raises $$ with Desperate Divas Calendar
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 5, 2006
The Desperate Divas 2007 calendar, created by the AIDS Housing Alliance, was released at a festive party at Under One Roof on Sept. 29. The calendar features some of the Bay Area’s most fabulous drag divas photographed in high style by San Francisco native Kingmond Young. It is twelve months...
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Down In The Valley Of Castro Street Fair
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: October 5, 2006
Since I am trying to recover from torn shoulder muscles including my rotator cuff, I decided to limit my adventures this year at the 33rd annual Castro Street Fair to just Sugar Valley, my favorite part of the Fair because of all the booths with wonderfully creative freeeks and artists...
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Vandana Bali in The Power of Love
By Tom W. Kelly Published: October 5, 2006
From chatty, informal patter to knock â€em dead power ballads, cabaret singer Vandana Bali charms and astounds her audience. In her recent show titled The Power of Love at the Empire Plush Room, she offered an incredible variety of approaches to that powerfully irrational, yet irresistible, emotion. And what a...
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SB 1827 Awaits Gov’s Signature
By Kim Corsaro Published: September 28, 2006
We Will Be Equal, But Still Separate in California if He SignsEven when Gov. Schwarzeneg-ger vetoed a bill that would have legalized gay marriage in 2005, back when he wasn't facing immediate re-election and was behaving more like his Republican self, California lesbian and gay couples who were registered as...
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Folsom Rocks the City
Published: September 28, 2006
Photo and Text by RinkBigger and more shocking (to some people) than ever, this year's Folsom Street Fair drew a huge crowd out on a mile long stretch of SOMA promenade. Sun and heat poured down onto hordes of leather, rubber, furry, vinyl, and metal clad fetish fans. This year...
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San Diego Pride Bashers Sentenced
By Rex Wockner Published: September 28, 2006
Three men connected with the baseball-bat attacks on six gay men outside the city’s July 29 LGBT Pride Festival were sentenced to prison Sept. 25.James Carroll, 24, pleaded guilty to wielding a baseball bat, attempted murder, assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury, and commission of...
Leather Week in SF: It’s Time for The Daddy of All Street Fairs
Published: September 21, 2006
By Sister Dana Van Iquity as told to Master BatesEvery year the fabulous Folsom Street Fair takes place during San Francisco’s Leather Pride Week—eight days and nights of leather at the end of September. It’s a week’s worth of intense activities with Folsom Street Fair as the crowning glory hole…er…glory....
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A Fond Farewell to Rev Penny Nixon at MCC
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 21, 2006
Metropolitan Community Church San Francisco has been enriched and challenged by the Rev. Penny Nixon's vision, leadership, generosity, good humor, and by her proven assertion that "transformation happens" as she has preached at MCCSF. In the eleven years since she walked through those church doors, her talents and service have...
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Look Good and Feeling Fab
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 21, 2006
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. are proud to present the 4th annual "Looking Good--Feeling Fab" fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 30 at Harvey's in the Castro. Last year they raised over $4,000 for three charities. This year they are doing even more! With a bigger venue, their goal is to...
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Robbie Martin Honored by Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 21, 2006
Moving to San Francisco presents the newcomer with many obstacles. One volunteer at the SF LGBT Community Center who exemplifies overcoming these obstacles is Robbie Martin. The Center has profiled this volunteer, and he deserves the recognition. Martin moved to San Francisco in April of 2005, and like many young...
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AIDS Grove Marks 15 Years: Let The Croquet Games Begin!
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 14, 2006
What better way to commemorate 15 years of existence for the AIDS Grove and also celebrate the slightly crazed and fiercely dedicated supporters of the National AIDS Memorial Grove than by throwing a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in the forest? So thought the Grove board members when they put together...
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Leadership Program Launched For LGBT People of Color
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 14, 2006
Horizons Foundation and And Castro for All hosted a reception on Sept. 7 in the second floor community room of the Castro Bank of America to inaugurate the new “Leader Fellowships” program for people of color. The fellowships are designed to support LGBT organizations with a focus on people of...
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National Latino Congreso Passes Historic Resolution
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 14, 2006
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauded the National Latino Congreso for the passage of a historic resolution calling for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights equality and civil rights protections. The resolution was adopted at the Latino/a community gathering on Sept. 6–9 in Los Angeles. The Task Force...
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Transgender Law Center Celebrates Fourth Birthday
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: September 14, 2006
Forty years after the transgender community stood up to police harassment at Compton’s Cafeteria in the heart of San Francisco, the Transgender Law Center (TLC) brought community members, allies, clients, and policymakers to the Tenderloin to celebrate its own four years of creating social change for transgender civil rights. Hosted...
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Krissy Keefer and Friends at Medjool
Published: September 14, 2006
Artists, Activists, and San Francisco political luminaries showed up yesterday to promote the Krissy Keefer for Congress Campaign and to watch some of the most spirited performing arts around. With Taiko Drumming, Hip Hop, Keefer’s own Dakini Daiko, Melanie DeMore, Anne Bluementhal, Jose Navarrete and Debby Kajiyama, Holly Near, Allan...
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A Record 14 LGBT Rights Bills Pass State Legislature
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 7, 2006
The 2005-2006 California Legislature session came to a close having passed an unprecedented 14 bills and one resolution sponsored by Equality California (EQCA). Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed four of the bills, vetoed two, and has eight bills still under consideration. “The 2005-2006 legislative session in California broke the record...
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Trying to Take Back Congress in 2006
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 7, 2006
People concerned about the current state of the national government gathered at the historic Gough House Victorian across from Lafayette Park to learn how to facilitate winning back Congress and stopping President George Bush’s one-party rule. Hosted by John Newmeyer, Stephan Suzman, and Jon Kouba, the event drew over a...
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Under One Roof Hosts Martini Night at Store in the Castro
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 7, 2006
Professional groups, loyal customers, and dedicated volunteers gathered at the Under One Roof store in the Castro for a night of free martinis, snacks, and unbridled shopping—all for a great cause. Every purchase made at any time at Under One Roof goes further than one might think. UOR raises unrestricted...
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Leno’s Bill To Streamline STD Testing
By Dennis McMillan Published: September 7, 2006
Assemblyman Mark Leno’s AB 2280, which would allow physicians to provide a patient diagnosed with gonorrhea with additional antibiotic drugs for their sex partner who may be unlikely to seek treatment, was passed by the State Assembly in a concurrence vote and is headed to the Governor’s desk for his...
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The Passing of a Pioneer: Tee Corrine, 1943-2006
By Kim Corsaro Published: August 31, 2006
The photo is legendary: two naked women, one cradled in the arms of the other, in solarized photographic contrast, oozing dark magic. It started as the cover of a women’s literary journal called Sinister Wisdom, was made into a poster, and appeared on the walls of every self-respecting lesbian feminist...
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Finally, a Final Verdict in Araujo Murder Trial
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 31, 2006
The ongoing trial over the brutal murder of 17-year old transgender teen Gwen Araujo that occurred back in October 2002, wrapped up on Aug. 25 in the Alameda County Superior Court when Judge Harry Sheppard sentenced Jaron Nabors, the last of the defendants, to a term of eleven years in...
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Four LGBT Measures Move Through Legislature; One Is Signed By Governor Schwarzenegger
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 31, 2006
Senate Bill 1827, the State Income Tax Equity Act sponsored by Equality California (EQCA) and authored by Senator Carole Migden (D-San Francisco), passed the Legislature on Aug. 29 and now heads to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk. The bill, which may impact as many as 38,000 same-sex couples, would allow registered...
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Troops Involuntarily Recalled as Hundreds of Gays Turned Away
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 31, 2006
Pentagon officials announced earlier last week that thousands of Marines from the Individual Ready Reserves will be involuntarily recalled to active duty starting at any time. The purpose of the recall is to make up for a shortage of volunteers returning to duty in Afghanistan and Iraq. Despite this fact,...
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LGBT Center Offers Economic Development Assistance
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 31, 2006
The Economic Development Program at the LGBT Community Center is a most helpful source for free assistance with job searches/career growth; small business development; financial planning and security, and more. Spokespersons for the EDP say at The Center’s Economic Development Department, they believe a secure financial foundation is possible for...
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LGBT Pride Parade Presents Checks & Awards to Community
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 24, 2006
The San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Pride Celebration Committee held its annual Check Granting Reception at the SF LGBT Community Center on Aug. 15. “I am Tita Aida, your most diva-licous hostess for this reception and a long-standing proud member of the SF Pride Board,” said the diva. She...
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New Zealand Member of Parliament Speaks Out On Human Rights and Sexual Freedom
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 24, 2006
The first openly gay New Zealand Member of Parliament, Tim Barnett, made a special appearance at the LGBT Community Center on Aug. 17, focusing on his political role impacting human rights and sexual freedom. MP Barnett discussed the need to decriminalize prostitution and safeguard the rights and dignity of sex...
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HRC Launches Out In Scripture Online
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 24, 2006
The Human Rights Campaign has announced the launching of “Out In Scripture” (hrc.org/scripture), a free weekly online resource for clergy and lay people of faith. The website will provide distinct insights into the Bible, week after week, from a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and straight-supportive perspective. The debut of the...
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Good News, Bad News On the Legislative Front
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 24, 2006
There is good news and bad news on the equality front. Assembly Bill 2800, the Civil Rights Housing Act of 2006, has passed the Legislature and will now move to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk for consideration. The measure, authored by Assemblymember John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) and co-sponsored by Equality California...
The Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law has released a new study showing that over 38,000 Asians and Pacific Islanders (APIs) in the United States identified themselves as living with a same-sex partner during Census 2000. The study also shows that more than half of the country’s cohabiting...
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Jeff Schindler Is New Development Director For LGBT Center
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 17, 2006
By Dennis McMillan The SF LGBT Community Center is proud to introduce the newest addition to their team, Development Director Jeff Schindler. He came to the Center with over 25 years of nonprofit experience, from the Jewish Home and the Catholic organization of Mount Saint Joseph-Saint Elizabeth. He served as...
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Mel Gibson, Circa 1992, “Refuses to Apologize to Gays”
By Rex Wockner Published: August 17, 2006
Once a Bigot, Always a Bigot?In 1991, actor Mel Gibson made some pointedly homophobic slurs directed at gay men. Reporter Rex Wockner filed this story in early 1992.Actor Mel Gibson, speaking Jan. 21 [1992] on ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America,” refused to apologize to gay men, who he ridiculed late last...
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BAR AIDS Benefit To Help Stop AIDS
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 17, 2006
Thirteen bars in seven San Francisco neighborhoods and STOP AIDS Project will team up for a night of hanging out with friends and fundraising on Aug. 24. The bars will donate a portion of their sales to support the work of the STOP AIDS Project.“This is another great way for...
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California Legislature Resumes: Nine EqCa Bills Slated For Vote
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 10, 2006
The California Legislature resumed Aug. 7 with nine bills sponsored by Equality California (EQCA) slated for final consideration. The nine bills address a diverse array of issues affecting the LGBT community, including new protections and security for youth and seniors. “We are optimistic about the prospects for these bills, thanks...
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Large Rally And March Protest Pride Bashings In San Diego
By Rex Wockner Published: August 10, 2006
SAN DIEGO—More than 2,000 people rallied and marched in the gay Hillcrest district Aug. 4 against the bashings of six gay men near the LGBT Pride Festival on July 29. One of the victims of the baseball-bat and knife attacks remains in critical condition with his skull bashed in. The...
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Dufty Kicks Off Reelection Campaign with The Mayor
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 10, 2006
Mayor Gavin Newsom hosted Supervisor Bevan Dufty’s campaign kickoff for reelection to District 8 on Aug. 7 at Tres Agaves. Donna Sachet acted as emcee, joking, “We are here for one reason only—to drink tequila. No, thatt’s not it. It’s to show support for Bevan Dufty.” Aaron Peskin, president of...
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House Party Supports Alix Rosenthal For D-8 Election
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 10, 2006
At a combination meet & greet and campaign fundraising party on Aug. 5 in Twin Peaks’ Love Manor, Alix Rosenthal, candidate for supervisor of District 8, spoke to her supporters about her plans, vision, and values. The party was hosted by Love Manor owner JD Petras and was emceed by...
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Doin’ Time At Mack Folsom Prison With Kurt Wagner
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 10, 2006
Stop AIDS Project Workshop Presents Sexual Circuitry Guru WagnerAs a free event offered by the Stop AIDS Project, local sexual circuitry guru Kurt Wagner took a group of us through some interactive exercises to help us make our sexual connections more satisfying. This “playshop” was held on Aug. 3 at...
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Wells Fargo Gives Grants To Queer Groups
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 10, 2006
The PRIDE Team Member Resource Group at Wells Fargo in partnership with the Wells Fargo Foundation selected ten queer-oriented agencies to receive grants to help with their work. They held a reception on the 19th floor of the Wells Fargo building on Aug. 3. Larry Cook, vice president of the...
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Ellis Act Evictions Continue Unabated in San Francisco
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 3, 2006
Trans March Organizer Faces EvictionThe flyer stated: “Do you know what your neighbor does for a living? She is a real estate speculator who buys buildings full of families, children, seniors, and ordinary San Francisco renters. She then evicts them by abusing the Ellis Act. Then she sells the building,...
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Baseball Bat Attack At San Diego Pride Celebration
By Rex Wockner Published: August 3, 2006
One Man’s Skull Bashed In; Police Make 3 ArrestsSix gay men were beaten with baseball bats and one of them was stabbed as they left the San Diego LGBT Pride Festival around 10:45 p.m. July 29. On July 31 and Aug. 1, police arrested all three alleged assailants. James Allen...
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HRC Gala Features Sen. Russ Feingold And Phil Angelides
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 3, 2006
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) held its 22nd annual gala dinner and awards ceremony, “Bridges to Equality,” at Moscone Center South on July 29. Ticket sales supported HRC’s political work to make certain that LGBT Americans are ensured of their basic equal rights, to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and...
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Los Altos Council Repeals Anti-Gay Rule
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 3, 2006
 Good news came from the Los Altos City Council meeting on July 25. Under pressure from the Gay-Straight Alliance, American Civil Liberties Union, and a concerned group of local businesses that circulated a pro-GSA petition, the Los Altos City Council repealed Rule 6.5 that prohibited official town proclamations dealing with...
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CUAV Welcomes New Executive Director
By Dennis McMillan Published: August 3, 2006
Community United Against Violence (CUAV), the nation’s oldest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender anti-violence organization, welcomed Jovida Guevara-Ross as its new executive director. Formerly the associate director at The Women’s Building, Guevara-Ross brings a solid background in general administration, program management, and direct service with several organizations that support women,...
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Sisters Give Grants From Pink Saturday Donations
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 27, 2006
 It was the usual crowded beer bust at the Eagle, but with the heat wave, there was the bonus of lots of shirtless men. The July 23 gathering was hosted by The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc., and was a chance to show the community where their donations went from...
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A&PI Wellness Center Hosts Oakland Open House
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 27, 2006
Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center is hosting an open house for its new East Bay location on Wednesday, Aug. 9 from 2-6pm. The new A&PI Wellness Center office is located at 350 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Suite 603, in downtown Oakland. This event is free and everyone in the community...
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One Year Later: Gay Iranian Teens’ Hanging Protested
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 27, 2006
Dozens of queers and their allies gathered on July 19 at the Castro Station in Harvey Milk Plaza to observe with a vigil and protest the one-year anniversary of Iran hanging two gay teenagers, Mahmoud Asgari and Ayaz Marhoni. The clerical regime’s henchmen publicly hanged the two young boys in...
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A Faaaaaabulous Benefit in the Castro
Published: July 27, 2006
Ann Blyth (center) charmed a packed house at the Castro last Friday night. Far from her role of the ultra evil daughter Veda Pierce in the Joan Crawford classic Mildred Piece, she was the epitome of intellegence and class. Also included in the event produced by Marc Huestis (left) was...
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Queer Youth Advocate Mitcho Gets Tribute At EVRC
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 20, 2006
Mitcho Thompson is a name well known in the queer youth community. On July 14, his friends and fans gathered in the Eureka Valley Recreation Center to thank him for his decade of leadership of the trailblazing Eureka Valley Recreation Center’s Queer Youth Program and to celebrate his contributions upon...
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Horizons Foundation Gala Is Coming
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 20, 2006
Horizons Foundation held a cocktail party to drum up interest in attending the annual gala on Sept. 30 at the Regency Center. They encouraged people to become table captains or to just buy individual tickets for what promises to be a fun fundraiser. Held at Olivia, the party showed...
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Take Me Out to the Ballgame!
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 20, 2006
You’re invited to the 13th annual “Until There’s A Cure Day” at AT&T Park with Krewe de Kinque and friends! Have a ball while watching the San Francisco Giants vs. the San Diego Padres. The Krewe will meet for a pre-game warm up at the Metro Dugout at 11am—that is,...
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The Marriage Battles Goes To Court in San Francisco
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 13, 2006
Judges are in the process of deciding the next phase in the same-sex marriage debate. The California Court of Appeals heard oral arguments on July 10 in Woo v. California and five other cases that will decide whether excluding same-sex couples from marriage violates the California Constitution. Shannon Minter, legal...
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Magnet Turns 3, Parties
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 13, 2006
What’s three years old, goes through about a zillion swabs a day, and throws a helluva party? Why, it’s Magnet—the gay menn’s community space and health center in the Castro. On July 8 they celebrated the over 250 volunteers who have helped make Magnet work by providing services, modeling for...
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Lesbian Fire Chief Takes the Reins in The City of San Diego
By Rex Wockner Published: July 6, 2006
Adjusts To Role-Model StatusSan Diego’s new openly lesbian fire chief is trying to come to grips with being a gay role model now. “I’m kind of adjusting to it since this has all been finalized,” Tracy Jarman said in an interview. Jarman was selected by Mayor Jerry Sanders June 20...
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MAX Salutes Team SF and Gay Games
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 6, 2006
,MAX (Men’s Associated Exchange) held another of their famous 5th Friday TGIF cocktail parties at Elevation Salon on June 30 as a fundraiser for the Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation and as a sendoff to Team San Francisco heading for Gay Games in Chicago. The event was entitled “Let’s Get Physical,” and...
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Sylvia Guerrero Testifies To Limit Use Of Panic Strategies
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 6, 2006
California took another step towards becoming the first state to meaningfully respond to strategies that blame transgender people for their own murders. Sylvia Guerrero, mother of slain transgender teen Gwen Araujo, in passionate testimony before the Senate Committee on Public Safety, asked lawmakers to support the Gwen Araujo Justice for...
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Health Foundation Makes Record Commitment To Trans Health Care Equality
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 6, 2006
The Transgender Law Center (TLC) is proud to announce that The California Endowment, a private, statewide health foundation, has made a historic $138,000 commitment over two years to continue their partnership with TLC’s Health Care Access Project. The grant, one of the largest ever made to a transgender civil rights...
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SFAF Selects New Policy Director
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 6, 2006
San Francisco AIDS Foundation has selected Judy Auerbach, Ph.D., as its new deputy executive director for Science and Public Policy. Auerbach has played a key role domestically and globally for 20 years in the areas of HIV prevention, behavioral and social research, and public policy. Auerbach will begin this role...
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Horizons Foundation Announces Grantees
By Dennis McMillan Published: July 6, 2006
Since the beginning of the epidemic, Horizons Foundation has been there to support the fight against HIV/AIDS. In 1982, they made the first two foundation grants in the country to AIDS organizations. One of these grants went to the Kaposi’s Sarcoma Research and Education Foundation - which later became the...
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Visual AID’s Bastille Day Fundraiser
By Sister Dana Van Iquity Published: July 6, 2006
Visual Aid & The Hotel des Arts are delighted to announce a Bastille Day party and fundraiser benefiting Visual Aid’s programs, encouraging artists with life-threatening illnesses to continue their creative work. On this holiday celebrating liberty and the struggle against oppression, the Hotel des Arts salutes Visual Aid—inviting the public...
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Pride Parade Presents Awards; Governor’s Message Rejected
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 29, 2006
The San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration Committee held an awards presentation ceremony at Boca in the SOMA on June 22. It was a time to celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Parade and the fact that there would be over 200 parade contingents, 15 entertainment venues at the celebration, over...
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Compton’s Cafeteria Riot Commemorated
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 29, 2006
Three years before the famous rioting at New York’s Stonewall Inn, there was a riot in San Francisco at Gene Compton’s Cafeteria. It was a hot August night in San Francisco in 1966. Compton’s Cafeteria, in the seedy Tenderloin district, was hopping with its usual assortment of transgender people, young...
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Transgender Hate Crime Investigated
By Dennis McMillan Published: June 29, 2006
Alfred/Ariana Dibble was discovered beaten, unconscious, and hidden in the bushes of a quiet Stockton neighborhood recently. Taken to a nearby hospital, Alfred/Ariana never regained consciousness. The Stockton Police have not classified the murder as a hate crime since at the moment they lack sufficient evidence. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL)...
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Veteran Activist Eric Rofes Dies at 53
Published: June 29, 2006
Eric Rofes, longtime AIDS and gay rights activist, has died suddenly of a heart attack. Rofes was 53 years old. He is survived by his partner, Crispin Hollings. Rofes was a prolific author, an organizer for more than three decades, and a political pioneer on HIV/AIDS and GLBT issues. A...
