By Donna Sachet–
We remember a time when going out meant a carefully scheduled series of appearances, sometimes as many as 4–5 places in a single night, sometimes with a key role at an event and other times merely to show support. We remember losing an escort or two when the number of stops during an evening exceeded their tolerance. Whether those times return or not is still up for debate. Last week, however, saw a spate of events that reminded us that this lingering pandemic is certainly losing its steam.
The first Divas & Drinks of 2022, a collaboration between the SF Bay Times and The Academy, drew a modest, but enthusiastic crowd last Thursday. The event coincided with the birthday of SF Pride’s Board President Carolyn Wysinger, so she was properly feted with cake, flowers, gifts, and best wishes, but only after giving the assembled a brief update on plans for SF Pride 2022. Carolyn outlined a hopeful return to a dynamic weekend in June featuring our traditional parade down Market Street and two days of celebration in Civic Center. She also emphasized the priority of inclusion, encouraging everyone to get involved in the return of this annual and much beloved weekend of festivities. Start attending SF Pride meetings, regularly check the website, and make a financial contribution if at all possible. Only with the full involvement of all of us will SF Pride weekend accurately reflect the beautiful diversity of the LGBTQ+ Community. Recent revelations in the press about changes in SF Pride leadership, namely the departure of Executive Director Fred Lopez and the interim appointment of experienced Board member Suzanne Ford, further emphasize the need for an “all-hands-on-deck” approach. Personally, we can’t wait to see what evolves for the 52nd SF Pride Parade & Celebration!
Divas & Drinks continued with a lively Name That Tune game with the help of DJ Rockaway and competitors Team Village Peopleand Team Gay Softball League. It wasn’t hard to come up with songs about love for this month’s event, in recognition of Valentine’s Day. The competition, however, was noticeably one-sided with the softballers struggling and the Village People emerging victorious. As always, the winning team received gifts from Bacardi and a full-page ad in the Bay Times. Join us for the next in this monthly series of events, Divas & Drinks at the Academy, Thursday, March 24, 6–10 pm.
Last Saturday provided further evidence of the tremendous success of Beaux on Market Street as a crowd of well-wishers gathered for a going-away party for popular performer and Absolute Empress XLVIII Patty McGroin. It seems that every weekend night a line forms in front of Beaux, sometimes halfway down the block, to enjoy drag shows, fundraisers, go-go dancers, and the like. The flashy lighting and enveloping sound system, combined with cute and friendly bartenders, have made Beaux a Castro destination not to be missed.
One of the most remarkable success stories coming out of the pandemic is the persistent survival of Aunt Charlie’s Lounge, home of the Hot Boxxx Girls, in the Tenderloin. It remains one of the few Gay bars in an area once known as the headquarters of our community, largely because of a loyal clientele, consistent and neighborhood sensitive management, and popular weekly drag shows. A nearby street is even officially named Vicki Mar Lane, in honor of the late Vicki Marlane, who dazzled audiences for years with her elaborate costumes and tantalizing performances. During the worst of the pandemic, an online fundraising effort amazed supporters and observers alike by raising over $100,000 in barely a week to keep the bar afloat. The bar and manager Joe Mattheison responded by completing much needed restoration and improvements and happily reopening to the public, while keeping drink prices reasonable and the atmosphere comfortable.
We made a rare appearance there last Sunday to support an event called Showdown, created by Emperor XXXVI John Weber and Grand Duke XXXV Carlos Medal. The lighthearted competition between members of the Grand Ducal Family and Krewe de Kinque featured spirited performances, generous tips, raffle prizes, and a bountiful buffet, as bartender Mini Minerva kept the cocktails flowing. The Grand Ducal team won the day and proceeds of nearly $1000 were split between the two organizations. While there, we were reminded of the role such bars once played in the development of the LGBTQ+ Community, providing a safe space to be ourselves and often to forge long-lasting friendships. Maybe the bar held 60 or 70 people at most, but everyone was engaged, involved, and convivial, supporting the cause and the performers with their tips and applause. Although we have not been there in over two years, we felt right at home, warmly received by strangers and graciously welcomed back by familiar faces. For a glimpse of history and a place that still delivers a powerful message of acceptance, stop by Aunt Charlie’s Lounge soon.
And with that, it is on to San Francisco Imperial Coronation week! Don your finest attire and join the revelry! Hip, hip, hooray!
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
Thursday, February 24
Anniversary Monarchs’ Reception
Ha-Ra Club, 875 Geary Street
7–8:30 pm
Free!
Friday, February 25
Pisces Birthday Happy Hour
Join Kelly Rose & Gary Virginia
440 Castro
5–7 pm
Free!
Friday, February 25
Out-of-Town Show
The Cat Club, 1190 Folsom Street
6–9 pm
$25 cover
Saturday, February 26
Matt Arietta Celebration of Life
440 Castro
Noon
Free!
Saturday, February 26
Imperial Coronation 57: Family is Universal
Step-down of Emperor Mr. David Glamamore &
Empress Juanita MORE!
The Midway SF, 900 Marin Street
6 pm
$85 each
Sunday, February 27
Annual Cemetery Pilgrimage
Woodlawn Cemetery, Colma
8–10 am
Free!
Sunday, February 27
Victory Brunch
Hyatt Park Central, 50 Third Street
11:30 am–1:30 pm
Price TBD
Sunday, February 27
Hawaii, Alaska & Texas Party
Detour, 2200A Market Street
3–6 pm
Free!
Sunday, March 6
In Conversation with Amy Schneider
Meet the local Jeopardy! champion in person
Oasis, 298 11th Street
7 pm
$20–$30
Published on February 24, 2022
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