By Donna Sachet –
One always leaves GAPA’s Runway amazed by the number and creativity of contestants, the quality of the overall production, and the genuine feeling of community created. This year was no exception! The GLBTQ Asian Pacific Alliance’s Runway 2025: Myths & Legends on Saturday, September 13, took the packed house on a spectacular journey. Once again, Sir Whitney Queers and Jezebel Patel served as emcees, quickly establishing the hilarious connection for which they have become known, full of off-script wit, consummate timing, and culturally flavored comedy. They are truly the glue that keeps this show going. Judges this year were Hannah Chea, Kat Evasco, Mocha Fapalatte, Vera Fied, Siam Phusri, Joe Tolbe, and Lance Toma, all well known to the community and warmly received. Outgoing titleholders Ari Ola and Kalypso joined all 12 contestants in a captivating opening number, after which celebrity attendees were recognized, including members of the Imperial Court of San Francisco, who were asked to stand and be recognized, a very thoughtful gesture.
All 12 contestants deserve mention here: for Mr. GAPA, Seika Ryu, Ali Amaya, Gerald Ong, Jung Haye, Adam, and Lyman; for Ms GAPA, Peipei Ma’ Bilz, Carter, and Quinn Amann Kruch; and for Mx GAPA, Bindi Masala, The Indigo Menace, and Shakthi. This is where the extraordinary aspect of this event arises: every contestant giving world class performances and receiving loving applause from the audience. As they proceeded through the categories of competition, each individual brought a fresh approach, including humor, drama, technical expertise, musical variety, and a dedication to their unique culture. None of us in the audience envied the difficult decision of the judges. Before announcing the winners, both Ari Ola and Kalypso gave moving farewell statements. Finally, winners were announced: Mr. GAPA Seika Ryu, Mx GAPA The Indigo Menace, and Ms GAPA Quinn Amann Krunch! Don’t miss Runway 2026; you won’t regret it!
Imperial Crown Prince Nathan D’Aguiar hosted a new event on Thursday, September 18, at Blackbird on Market Street, titled Serenade and featuring all live singers from the Imperial Court. It was remarkable to see and hear the many court members who follow in the footsteps of Our Beloved Founder José Sarria, who was certainly known for live singing as well as starting the Imperial Court System, now in its 60th year. Nathan had gathered several raffle prizes and auction items to increase the fundraising opportunities, yielding a very successful event. Reigning Emperor Ashlee Blow and Reigning Empress Afrika America were both on hand, continuing their successful year and gearing up for the many upcoming events and title contests.
During the heyday of The Edge, when a huge phallic construction hung suspended from the ceiling and every night seemed to hold a fundraiser, celebration, or hosted event of some kind, Jeff Scott bartended, becoming a much-loved part of that family. He frequently called out to his friends as “Mary” and soon was given that nickname himself. We recently lost him to cancer and Moxie Penn, in close coordination with family members, hosted a celebration of life at the last bar where he had bartended. Trax has changed ownership and shall heretofore be known as Mary’s on Haight! From Jeff’s favorite music and a loop of photos from his life to a tremendous spread of food and great gathering of friends, this event resonated with memories of “Mary.” Speakers were limited to close friends and family and only Keith Lawrence and this humble columnist performed music. You can find a GoFundMe online to pay for a permanent home at the San Francisco Columbarium. “Mary” was truly an important part of the San Francisco we have come to love.
And finally, we are sorry to hear that Chris Verdugo is leaving his CEO position at the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. His ten years there have been full of notable accomplishments and we wish him all the best in whatever he pursues next.
Get ready for one of the busiest weekends in the city, followed by a month of special galas and other fundraisers! This is Fall 2025 and things are looking consistently better for San Francisco, so get out there and support your local businesses, charitable causes, and hard-working performers. Be a part of the coming Renaissance!
Thursday, September 25
Imperial Leather Contestant Interviews & Pub Crawl
Mr./Miss/Mx Leather Title competition
Powerhouse, 1347 Folsom St.
5–9 pm
Free!
Saturday, September 27
51st Ducal Coronation
Grand Duke David Herrera & Grand Duchess
Rosa De los Gallos
Step-down, awarding funds, crowning
Chan National Queer Arts Center, 170 Valencia Street
6 pm
$75
www.ducal.org
Saturday, September 27
Magnitude
Brian Kent Productions’
Folsom Dance event
DJs Pagano, DSP, Russ Rich
SVN West
10 South Van Ness Avenue
9 pm–4 am
$99 & up
www.folsomstreet.org
Sunday, September 27
42nd Folsom Street Fair
Largest Leather event
11 am–6 pm
https://www.folsomstreet.org/
Sunday, September 28
Mr/Miss/Mx
Leather Contest Finale
Cheer for your favorites, raffle prizes awarded
The Stud Drag Stage, 8th Street between Folsom & Howard
4:30 pm–6 pm
Free!
Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist, and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com
Donna’s Chronicles
Published on September 25, 2025
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