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Vol. 55 • No. 51 • December 18-24, 2025

2029 opening expected for new SF LGBTQ senior housing by Matthew S. Bajko

From SF Travel

A rendering of San Francisco Travel’s “Believe in San Francisco” float that will be in the New Year’s Day Tournament of Roses parade.

LGBTQs missing from SF Rose Parade float by Cynthia Laird

an Francisco is being represented in the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day for the first time in nearly 50 years, but don’t expect a nod to the LGBTQ community on the float. SF Travel, the city’s visitors bureau, has undertaken the project, and its CEO told the Bay Area Reporter that it was due to what the organization could fit on the 55 foot float, “Believe in San Francisco.” See page 7 >>

new affordable housing project affirming of LGBTQ seniors should open by early 2029 in San Francisco’s LGBTQ Castro neighborhood. The timing will be dependent on a final round of financing state agencies are to decide on awarding late next summer. As the Bay Area Reporter was first to report December 10, the California Strategic Growth Council awarded nearly $47.6 million toward the project that aims to construct 187 units on a prominent triangular lot at the corner of Market Street and Duboce Avenue. All but two of the units, which will be set aside for on-site managers, will be occupied by low-income seniors. While the hope is to see a bulk of the apartments go to LGBTQ seniors and those experiencing homelessness, the tenants will be selected by lottery closer to when construction on the new building is complete. Anyone who meets the income restrictions and other requirements to apply can do so, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Nonetheless, city officials are expected to heavily promote the selection process to LGBTQ seniors as similarly happened with the first two buildings of 119 affordable apartments built a

Courtesy Openhouse

A rendering of the affordable senior housing complex for which Mercy Housing and Openhouse received much-needed state funding last week.

block away with the goal of seeing them mostly go to queer and trans low-income seniors. Those projects bookending a former higher education campus between 55 and 95 Laguna Streets are overseen by Mercy Housing California and nonprofit LGBTQ service provider Openhouse.

The two agencies are again teaming up on the new apartment building roughly a block away. The area is near the northeastern end of the Castro district and close to the SF LGBT Community Center at 1800 Market Street. See page 6 >>

Group connects LGBTQ people to the outdoors in San Mateo County by Matthew S. Bajko

John Ferrannini

Bay Area Reporter publisher Michael Yamashita, seen speaking at the dedication of the Rainbow Honor Walk plaque for founding publisher Bob Ross, was pleased the paper again received San Francisco Press Club awards.

B.A.R. wins SF Press Club awards by Cynthia Laird

he Bay Area Reporter continued its award-winning journalism by picking up several awards at the recent San Francisco Press Club event. The awards were distributed for articles published from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. This year also saw assistant editor John Ferrannini, a gay man, join the board of directors of the press club. The press club’s gala was held December 9 at the Julia Morgan Ballroom in downtown San Francisco. “John represents the very best of Bay Area journalism: curious, courageous and deeply committed to truth,” said Curtis Sparrer, a gay man who is president of the San Francisco Press Club and principal of Bospar. “His dedication to fairness and accuracy embodies the values our Club stands for, and we’re honored to welcome him to the board.” Ferrannini stated that he was excited to join the board. See page 3 >>

t dusk one evening prior to Halloween, nearly two dozen people gathered on a windswept hilltop with views of San Francisco Bay at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. Venturing out for a moonlit hike in the protected greenspace above Palo Alto, they were greeted by deer passing through the grasslands and owls perched in the treetops hooting hellos. Once the sun set, the hikers switched on ultraviolet flashlights to search out scorpions hidden in the fallen foliage along the trail that glowed an eerie neon green under the black light. The spooky sight was a fitting herald for the holiday just days away. “Usually, I am with other crazy outdoors people, so it is nice to be with people of different levels of expertise outdoors. We don’t have to hike at a certain speed,” noted participant Ezra Smith, 22, who came dressed in an acorn woodpecker costume they had made since “it’s Halloween. I feel a kinship with them.” The queer and nonbinary native of Santa Clara had taken a California naturalist certification program via Grassroots Ecology over the summer and picked Melanerpes formicivorus known for its distinctive red crown to research. Having grown up visiting Yosemite National Park and falling in love with being in nature at an early age, Smith gravitated toward a career in the outdoors, most recently working on crews building trails in federal and county park sites. Two years ago, they first learned about the group Branching Out Adventures, which had organized the Halloween-themed hike. Its mission is to celebrate “queerness through community, education, and connection to the outdoors.” Smith has been on several hikes led by the LGBTQ outdoors nonprofit and this fall participated in one of the backpacking trips it offers. Being able to be their queer self “and say silly things” with other queer people is a large draw, Smith told the Bay Area Reporter. “I also really enjoy the low stakes, low pressure

Matthew S. Bajko

Eleanor Raab participated in a Branching Out Adventures hike at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve.

of being outside,” said Smith about taking part in a Branching Out excursion, in addition to being able to share their knowledge and expertise as a naturalist. “I enjoy sharing this stuff with people who aren’t used to it.” Gay founder and director Tyler Feld, 30, first had the idea for Branching Out in 2019 having attended the LGBTQ Outdoor Summit held that year at the YMCA of the Rockies-Estes Park Center in the Colorado high country. While a super fan of the reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Feld isn’t “a big club person” so was looking for a way to meet other LGBTQ people who could dish about the contestants on the latest season of the drag competition and talk about nature or animals. “I couldn’t find anything in the Bay Area like the summit,” recalled Feld, who lives in Scotts Valley near Santa Cruz with his partner and is coexecutive director of Grassroots Ecology working on environmental education and habitat restoration. After growing up in the Santa Barbara area, Feld moved to the Central Coast to attend UC Santa Cruz, from which he graduated in 2016 with a degree in environmental studies. Six years

ago, he had begun holding events for other LGBTQ nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts only to curtail his efforts when the COVID pandemic broke out in 2020 and resulted in shelter-in-place orders. While many sought relief in the outdoors, Feld didn’t want to risk people’s health by bringing them together with strangers for any group activities at the time. It wasn’t until 2023, with the health crisis under control, that Feld returned his attention to Branching Out Adventures and restarted hosting outdoor outings. “I hope people leave either having met new friends or with an appreciation for nature or feeling part of a bigger community,” said Feld prior to leading the nighttime hike at Monte Bello.

Awarded funding

It was one of five the group held this year at sites overseen by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. The steward of parks in San Mateo, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties, Midpen awarded Branching Out $10,000 for the See page 6 >>

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2 • Bay Area Repor ter • December 18-24, 2025

Australia attack on minds at Castro Hanukkah event by David-Elijah Nahmod

terrorist attack in Australia at a Hanukkah celebration was on the minds of many attendees at the Castro menorah lighting in Jane Warner Plaza this week. The mass shooting by a father and son in Bondi Beach was inspired by the Islamic State, authorities said, and took the lives of at least 15 people. In San Francisco, meanwhile, a menorah was lit Monday, December 15, a day after the overseas carnage. More than 100 people braved chilly weather to mark the Jewish Festival of Lights on the second night of the eight-day observance. The event was hosted by Congregation Sha’ar Zahav, San Francisco’s LGBTQ synagogue. Leading the celebration was the congregation’s spiritual head, Rabbi Mychal Copeland, a lesbian, and Cantor Sharon Bernstein. Dignitaries present were gay politicians state Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman, who represents the LGBTQ neighborhood. Mayor Daniel Lurie also attended. Karen Schiller, a 67-year-old lesbian, said she had serious reasons for being at the event. “I love Hanukkah,” Schiller told the Bay Area Reporter. “I love bringing light into the world. Especially this year after what happened in Australia, it’s important for me to be publicly Jewish.” In that attack, the older suspect, identified as Sajid Akram, 50, was killed by police. His son, Naveed Akram, 24, was hospitalized. Authorities said that the men targeted the Jewish community, with more than 20 people injured. Schiller’s sentiments were echoed by Don Berger, a 76-year-old gay man. “I’m representing the Jewish community,” Berger said. “Especially this week with the horror story in Australia and Rob Reiner’s death. I’m here to support the Jewish community in these antisemitic times.”

Berger was referring to actor-director and LGBTQ ally Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, who were found dead Sunday, December 14, at their home in Brentwood in Los Angeles. The prominent Hollywood Jewish couple was found with fatal knife wounds and allegedly killed by their son, Nick, who has been arrested in the case, according to media reports. The gathering Monday night at a prominent public space in the LGBTQ neighborhood, for the most part, was joyous and upbeat, with people wishing each other a happy holiday and embracing. “What makes this event is all of you,” said Copeland, speaking from the podium. “It’s just so beautiful to see everyone out here tonight.” The rabbi then thanked Andrea Aiello, a lesbian who is executive director of the Castro Community Benefit District, for helping to put the event together. Aiello did not speak at the event. The rabbi also thanked the Castro Merchant’s Association and the Castro LGBTQ Cultural District. “We are all holding a lot right now this Hanukkah,” Copeland said, taking on a more serious tone. “It’s a little bit different than in years past. I want to be in a space of pure joy, and it is a happy Hanukkah, a very happy and joyous holiday, but we are holding a lot of pain right now. Our communities are grieving two major catastrophes over this weekend, in Sydney where there was a horrific attack at a Hanukkah event, and I don’t even know where to hold that in my heart, it is so painful, and I know what we’re bringing that into this space tonight. And we’re also bringing in from a day or two before that, an attack at Brown University.” At Brown University in Rhode Island last Saturday, a shooter opened fire in a classroom where a finals review was underway. Two students were killed. “So much violence in our midst,” the rabbi continued. “And we come together knowing that we are experts at hold-

Law Office of Shelley S. Feinberg

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San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie lit one of the electric menorah lights during the Hanukkah celebration in the Castro December 15.

ing the joy and sorrow of life together, but come on, this is too much, and I’m feeling the heaviness of that and I imagine that a lot of you are as well.” Copeland then acknowledged that some people might be reticent to put their menorahs in their windows. “But we are here in public today,” she said. “And we are loud. So be loud.” The crowd cheered as the rabbi spoke. Copeland then introduced Wiener and Mandelman, two prominent local Jewish politicians. Also introduced was Captain Amy Hurwitz of the San Francisco Police Department. All three were met with applause. “I really look forward every year to welcoming Hanukkah here in my neighborhood in the Castro,” said Wiener, who announced in October that he’s running for the U.S. House seat held by retiring Congressmember Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco). “It’s so meaningful. Not everyone here is LGBTQ, but I do love being around queer Jews. With everything happening in the world, I have never been prouder to be a Jew than I am right now.” Wiener then spoke about the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, of which he is a co-chair, and its work in “Tikkun Olam” (repairing the world). The caucus works toward making

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“We’ve shown the world light over the last 11 months,” the mayor said, referring to his time in office since January. “And during these dark moments when we have weekends like we just had around the country and around the world, to know that we can come together, to wrap each other up, hold each other, we can give each other hugs, hope and some happiness and some peace, that’s what this holiday is about, that’s what I learned from my dad, Rabbi Brian Lurie.” The mayor pointed out that it was a Muslim man who took away the gun from one of the shooters in Australia, thereby saving a lot of Jews. “We have to, as a community here in San Francisco and around the world, take care of each other, whatever your religion, whatever your background,” the mayor said, as the crowd applauded and cheered. Hurwitz was the last to speak. “I don’t have a lot to say but I want to say thank you to everyone who is standing here because your presence here shows that we are not afraid, we are a cohesive group,” she said. “We love each other and we love this city. We are going to keep going forward, so thank you for supporting the SFPD, and we will always be here for you.” Bernstein, standing at a portable keyboard, then led the spectators in singing Hanukkah songs, both in Hebrew and in English. A few people danced to the music as Copeland displayed a giant dreidel. Jelly donuts were handed out as people sang along. In spite of the tragedies that had occurred over the past few days, the mood was jubilant. Some people came ready to party. A woman named Lucia, who declined to give her last name, said that she identified as a dreidel, proudly showing off the dreidel costume she was wearing. She also showed off a large sculpture of a menorah she had made when she was 8 years old. “I’m here because it’s Hanukkah,” she said. “I didn’t want to celebrate alone.”t

in Michigan, she made her way to her beloved San Francisco where she lived for nearly 60 years. As a resolute volunteer for gay and trans rights, she participated fully in supporting the gay community. She is survived by her chosen family, special friends, and those whom she loved in the Grace Cathedral Vine community, a weekly contemporary service, and her art friends and supporters at the On Lok Senior Center. Camille loved cooking for

friends, creating beautiful art, and volunteering in numerous ways to support psychiatric survivors and the gay community. Camille will be truly missed. Her celebration of life will be at the San Francisco LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market Street, San Francisco, Room 201, on Wednesday, January 7, at 2 p.m. Donations to the community center (sfcenter.org) gratefully received in her memory.

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food and health care more accessible, and offers support to refugees. “And that is the positive beauty of Judaism,” Wiener said. “It’s supporting everyone and finding the light in the darkness. That’s what Hanukkah is all about, that’s what Judaism is all about, that’s what this community is about.” Wiener then lit an electric candle on the giant menorah, which was on display next to the podium. Mandelman followed suit. Mandelman introduced himself by saying that he was a “gay, gay, gay supervisor, and the gay, gay, gay board president, and a proud member of Sha’ar Zahav.” The supervisor spent his time at the podium thanking Copeland and Bernstein for their hard work, as well as thanking Aiello. Mandelman called Wiener a “great senator who will be a great congressman.” He also thanked Hurwitz. “She’s the Jewish Godmother,” said Mandelman of Hurwitz. “She looks after the Jews. Thank you, SFPD, for being out here. And I love our Jewish mayor, Daniel Lurie, he’s a mensch (gentleman). He puts the mensch in mensch. He’s a joy to work with. Happy Hanukkah, Mr. Mayor.” The mayor then stepped up to the podium, lighting the third electric candle. “It’s a joy to be with you all,” Lurie said. “We had a press conference about street safety, and the questions inevitably went to what happened in Australia. All I can say is I’m heartbroken, I’m devastated by the attacks there. This is a holiday where we celebrate light in a time of darkness. The more light we can shine on the world, as Jews and as non-Jews, that is what is so critical, so important in these dark times. And I do want to thank our SFPD for keeping us safe, and allowing our community to celebrate, and I want people to celebrate Christmas coming up and I want to celebrate New Year’s, but as it relates to this holiday, this is where we get to shine a light on our community.

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December 18-24, 2025 • Bay Area Repor ter • 3

Brothers pen open letter about Castro leases by John Ferrannini

he owners of the Castro Street coffee shop and nail salon whose leases weren’t renewed earlier this year are changing tack after expressing hope for a solution two weeks ago. The businesses in San Francisco’s LGBTQ neighborhood risk losing their storefronts to Another Planet Entertainment as it seeks to expand the box office of the Castro Theatre in the same building. Now, straight allies Ken Khoury of the Castro Coffee Co. at 427 Castro Street and his brother, Riyad Khoury, who owns the Castro Nail Salon at 431 Castro Street, are saying that their landlord, the Nasser family, and theater operator Another Planet Entertainment “have refused to meaningfully engage in finding a solution.” The theater is located at 429 Castro Street. The brothers made the charge in an open letter they sent to the Bay Area Reporter that is addressed to San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and gay Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman, who represents the Castro as the District 8 supervisor. They are asking Lurie and Mandelman to “intervene and help resolve this issue as soon as possible, either by: (i) allowing us to remain in our current locations; or (ii) by ensuring that we are fairly compen-

B.A.R. awards

From page 1

“At a time when the free press is under siege, and many readers and viewers have understandably tuned out, I hope to help uplift the amazing work so many of my colleagues do every day – finding facts, asking tough questions, and giving people a fair opportunity to be heard,” he said. “With each story, we can rebuild trust

sated and relocated to nearby spaces should we not be allowed to stay.” Lurie’s office; Mandelman; and Chris Nasser, who has been involved in the negotiations, did not immediately return requests for comment December 15. APE spokesperson David Perry stated, “As we have said numerous times before, the issue at hand is between the two businesses in question and their landlords -- the Nasser family. We continue to remain hopeful for an amicable outcome between those parties as we are laser focused on returning the Castro Theatre to the service of the cultural and LGBTQ communities.” Since 2022, the theater has been managed by APE and is currently closed for an ongoing $40 million restoration and renovation project. As of July 1, APE began subleasing the three-unit building that includes the theater and the two storefronts from the Nasser family, the brothers said. Initially, APE disavowed involvement in the non-renewal of the brothers’ leases. Later, however, APE told the San Francisco Chronicle that it wanted to use the spaces for an expanded box office. The theater is slated to reopen in February. After emails revealed that Chris and rekindle a passion for fearless, honest journalism.” (Board members don’t vote for the awards.) There was a change this year in how the press club established its categories. Before, the B.A.R. was in the “newspapers non-daily” category. This year, the press club changed categories to the size of newsrooms: fewer than 15 or more than 15. As a result, the B.A.R. faced off against different publications, such as the

Nasser offered a lease to Ken Khoury September 23 – and that the brothers made a counteroffer that would involve the Nassers paying $150,000 to each for relocation costs – Ken Khoury stated to the B.A.R., “We still think there is room for a solution going forward. Hopefully, we’ll hear from the other parties soon.” As per his counteroffer, the nail salon would move to a location on the 500 block of Castro Street, the coffee shop would move to 421 Castro Street, where Lisa’s Hair Design is now. Lisa’s would move to the

former location of Double Rainbow Ice Cream at 417 Castro Street. The building north of the tripartite, containing the former ice creamery and the current hair design shop, is owned by relatives of the Khourys. Lisa’s Hair Design did not respond to a request for comment. In a joint phone interview with his brother December 15, Ken Khoury disclosed that Nasser said he was exploring buying or leasing 449 Castro Street, the former location of Park Gyros, which has been boarded up for several years. He said Nasser offered to pay them $75,000 if the coffee shop moved there after he acquired or leased the property, and that Nasser declined to pay relocation costs if the coffee shop moved elsewhere. Said Riyad Khoury, “The response was, ‘We’re not going to pay money for that.’” They also took issue with the length of the lease Chris Nasser proposed – three years, instead of the five years the brothers insisted upon. Ken Khoury said December 15 he was frustrated they hadn’t heard back from the Nassers or APE in two weeks after they said they would walk through the 449 space, which is currently owned by Ronald Vincent Pinto, according to public records. He

characterized the Nassers and APE as “stonewalling.” “Months of negotiations have come and gone with no result,” Ken Khoury said. “Most of it is just lip service. … We need to know where we’re going. We cannot live in the status quo.” Asked what Lurie and Mandelman could do, Riyad Khoury said, “Negotiate some kind of money for us to relocate. Maybe the city can help with expediting the permits and stuff like that. I think he [Lurie] has people listening to him. As you can see downtown, he’s negotiating with all the buildings. We believe he can do something, but we also know APE has a lot of business to do with the city. They run [the] Bill Graham [Civic Auditorium]. They give them breaks. They have kind of leverage, so to speak.” The Castro Theater is expected to open in February with a residency by out singer Sam Smith followed by a lineup of various performers and the return of the LGBTQ international film festival Frameline in June, which was displaced from its usual homebase for movie screenings in 2024 and 2025 due to the renovation project. Asked by the B.A.R. if they have received any kind of formal notice they will be expected to leave their storefronts, the brothers said no.t

San Francisco Examiner and Mission Local. The B.A.R. took third place in Overall Excellence: Best Community Newspaper. The Examiner took first place in the category, while the San Francisco Business Times was second. In the political/news columns category, assistant editor Matthew S. Bajko, a gay man, received third place for his Political Notebook column on

the Presidio canceling its Pride event due to President Donald Trump’s executive orders. In the arts writing competitions, longtime B.A.R. freelance writer Tim Pfaff won second place in the entertainment review category for his piece on Ken Burns’ documentary about Leonardo da Vinci. B.A.R. publisher Michael Yamashita, a gay man, praised the recognition the paper and its writers received.

“Congratulations to Matthew Bajko and Tim Pfaff for their welldeserved achievements,” he stated. “We are proud to have such talented writers. For the B.A.R. to be awarded for overall excellence by the San Francisco Press Club, along with the San Francisco Examiner and the San Francisco Business Times, is an honor. Credit is due to editors Cynthia Laird, Jim Provenzano, Matthew Bajko and John Ferrannini.”t

John Ferrannini

Customers sit outside the Castro Coffee Co., which is next to the Castro Theatre.

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4 • Bay Area Repor ter • December 18-24, 2025

Volume 55, Number 51 December 18-24, 2025 www.ebar.com

PUBLISHER Michael M. Yamashita Thomas E. Horn, Publisher Emeritus (2013) Publisher (2003 – 2013) Bob Ross, Founder (1971 – 2003) NEWS EDITOR Cynthia Laird ARTS & NIGHTLIFE EDITOR Jim Provenzano ASSISTANT EDITORS Matthew S. Bajko • John Ferrannini CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christopher J. Beale • Robert Brokl Brian Bromberger • Philip Campbell Heather Cassell • Eliot Faine Michael Flanagan • Jim Gladstone Liz Highleyman • Brandon Judell • Lisa Keen Philip Mayard • Laura Moreno David-Elijah Nahmod • Mark William Norby JL Odom • Paul Parish • Tim Pfaff Jim Piechota • Adam Sandel Jason Serinus • Gregg Shapiro Gwendolyn Smith • Charlie Wagner Ed Walsh • Cornelius Washington • Sura Wood ART DIRECTION Max Leger PRODUCTION/DESIGN Ernesto Sopprani PHOTOGRAPHERS Jane Philomen Cleland Rick Gerharter • Gooch Jose A. Guzman-Colon • Rudy K. Lawidjaja Georg Lester • Rich Stadtmiller Christopher Robledo • Fred Rowe Shot in the City • Steven Underhill • Bill Wilson ILLUSTRATORS & CARTOONISTS Christine Smith

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SF Travel misses the boat with Rose Parade float

hen we first looked at a small rendering of SF Travel’s float for the New Year’s Day Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, we thought we spied a small rainbow-colored patch at the back. Alas, our eyes were fooling us, as the enlarged image showed it was an orange flower. An inquiry to SF Travel officials confirmed that there was no specific LGBTQ element on the 55 foot float, “Believe in San Francisco.” While officials pointed out, “The color palette reflects the diversity and beauty of the city,” we couldn’t help but feel disappointed. The queerest city on Earth, returning to the prestigious Rose Parade for the first time in nearly 50 years, has left LGBTQs out. It’s a missed opportunity, and one we don’t think would have happened if there was an LGBTQ person in charge of the city’s official visitors’ bureau. (We miss you, Joe D’Alessandro, the gay former CEO who stepped down in 2023.) Now, don’t get us wrong. SF Travel is very LGBTQ-friendly. It has a dedicated LGBTQ+ section on its website, sftravel.com, that promotes many LGBTQ offerings, not just the Castro neighborhood and the Pride Parade. But the sea lions at Pier 39 have a spot on the float, while a rainbow flag or the iconic Castro Theatre sign do not. Actually, they could have just put rainbow bandanas on a couple of the sea lions and called it a day. It’s reminiscent of what happened earlier this year at the Presidio, when park officials canceled an annual Pride event that had started in 2023. And while the circumstances are different, the two are examples of what is happening in this country under President Donald Trump and his power to unleash bigotry that has spilled over into nearly every aspect of society. In the Presidio kerfuffle, as we reported in late May, National Park Service officials said the

Scott Wazlowski

Landmarks like the Castro Theatre sign and the colors of the rainbow flag will be missing from SF Travel’s “Believe in San Francisco” float that will be in the New Year’s Day Tournament of Roses Parade.

Pride event was canceled due to Trump’s executive orders. These were “Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism And Restoring Biological Truth To The Federal Government,” and one titled “Ending Illegal Discrimination And Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity” that forbade federal agencies from engaging in diversity-based programs and initiatives, ordering them to “terminate all ‘diversity,’ ‘equity,’ ‘equitable decision-making,’ ‘equitable deployment of financial and technical assistance,’ ‘advancing equity,’ and like mandates, requirements, programs, or activities, as appropriate.” These orders were the death knell for the LGBTQ celebration organized by the Partnership for the Presidio, which includes the park service, the Presidio Trust, and the nonprofit Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy.

These examples of the parade float and Pride event, though unrelated, point to a shift underway in this country – it’s OK to omit LGBTQ references and face no consequences. This is largely due to the political polarization now washing over the U.S. People angrily spout of anti-LGBTQ and anti-trans rhetoric with no fear of repercussions because the president of the United States and members of his administration regularly do the same thing. That trickles down, consciously or not, even to mundane things like parade floats, instances in which we’re just ignored or erased. In the case of the Presidio, employees feared running afoul of the administration. It’s important to note that the Rose Parade has evolved over the years to become more welcoming of the LGBTQ community. The first parade was held in 1890 by the Valley Hunt Club. Over the ensuing years, especially in the last decade or so, there’s been a willingness on the part of parade officials to more fully embrace the community. In January 2024, Broward County, Florida, spent $800,000 on an elaborate float touting its support for LGBTQ people, as the Advocate reported. And that was at a time when Republican Governor Ron DeSantis was waging his own war against the LGBTQ community. The Advocate reported the initiative was led by Visit Lauderdale, the city’s tourism bureau. The Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation has had a float in the parade almost every year since 2012. In January 2025, it promoted its Healthy Housing Foundation with its “Home Sweet Home” float celebrating Charlie Chaplin on the 100th anniversary of his classic 1925 film, “The Gold Rush.” AHF also featured the marriage of a gay samesex couple on its float in 2014, after same-sex marriage became law in California in June 2013. See page 6 >>

Christmas: A queer migration story by Jim Mitulski

hat’s your best Christmas memory? I grew up in Michigan, and have lived as an adult in New York, Colorado, Massachusetts, and Minnesota, all places where snow and cold and winter are an integral part of the story. I remember the weather, but more tangibly I remember the people. Memory is the primary lens through which I perceive it. And my most intense memories are from right here in the San Francisco Bay Area. I love the stories of Christmas past, and every year I pray that this one – the one I’m having – will be the best one ever. Usually, that is true. Healthy nostalgia doesn’t lock us in the past. It brings the present into sharper focus. This year I especially long for Christmas comfort and joy. A recently released podcast, “When We All Get to Heaven,” has rescued sound archives from 40 years ago from the Metropolitan Community Church of San Francisco, where I was the pastor in the 1980s and 1990s. I recently heard my much younger voice speaking to a congregation held in the grip of AIDS (before we called it more widely HIV). More than half of the people there were HIV infected, and we were all HIV affected. The virus threatened not only our life expectancy, but also diminished our ability to sustain hope. At that time, the typical trajectory between diagnosis and death was less than a year. I offered the solace of the ancient Christmas story, and paired it with the words of queer poet W.H. Auden, who wrote these words in his Christmas oratorio, “For the Time Being,” at a dire time in world history 40 years prior: We who must die demand a miracle. How could the Eternal do a temporal act, The Infinite become a finite fact? Nothing can save us that is possible: We who must die demand a miracle. Hearing the recordings for the first time in years did trigger some sadness, but it brought back a visceral memory of the collective strength and solidarity that helped us get through those painful times. When we lit candles and sang “Silent Night,” we fervently believed in the power of the ancient story to empower us, and it did. It’s such a clearly queer story that I find it hard to believe that so many people tell it without being changed by it. Joseph and Mary are an unwed couple, and most churches would chastise, if not exclude them, on that basis alone. A cruel and unfeeling government orders a census that requires them to be dislocated from their home, which

Jim Mitulski

The Reverend Jim Mitulski welcomes visitors to Congregational Church of the Peninsula in Belmont.

makes them migrants during Mary’s pregnancy. There are heroes: Mary chooses her destiny in a story of bold defiance of social convention. Her cousin, Elizabeth, coaches her into letting joy be her guide, rejoicing with her. Angels bring messages of encouragement; only those living on the edges of society are able to hear them, and enjoy the celestial music that eludes the perceptions of people in power. An innkeeper offers the homeless couple a shelter, however modest, which brought back memories of the first queer youth shelters in the Castro, opened in the winter months, despite the heartless opposition of some neighbors. A chosen family is surrounded by love and light, and their divine qualities are seen by strangers from the East, who did not share their faith or culture. These Magi, whose gender is not specified in the Christmas gospel, could well have been as startling in appearance as modern day queens like the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. Christmas has always been a story for outsiders. If it doesn’t shock you in some ways then you aren’t really paying attention to it. It’s a story that doesn’t end at the manger. The evil tyrant Herod orders a massacre, forcing the family to seek asylum in Egypt, leaving all that is familiar in order to seek a better, safer life in exile. How many of us have had to flee even family or home in order to have the freedom humans deserve in order to self-determine their destiny? Many churches in places seeing Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity have created nativity scenes that capture what was happening then and translating them into stark reminders of what is happening now. St. Susanna Catholic Church in Dedham, Massachusetts, has garnered the attention of both government and religious authorities. The Archdiocese of Boston has de-

manded the removal of the church’s outdoor display featuring an empty cradle with the sign “ICE was here.” Its admonition that, “The people of God have the right to expect that, when they come to church, they will encounter genuine opportunities for prayer. ... The display should be removed, and the manger restored to its proper sacred purpose” entirely misses the point of this very queer migration story. The Christmas story is too powerful to surrender the interpretation of it to religious authorities who are afraid to challenge people in power. It’s time for people who are moved by this story’s true meaning to reclaim and proclaim it. Christmas has an inevitable and irresistible power to stir hope and action. My Christmas came early at a secular event on World AIDS Day at the National AIDS Memorial Grove in San Francisco. Despite an edict from a modern-day imperial palace not to observe the day, hundreds of us gathered there, glad to still be alive, in many instances its own miracle, and we recommitted to our promise to see an end to HIV/AIDS in our lifetime, even as we see the terrible effects of the canceling of USAID medical assistance abroad and the callous dismantling of our health care system in our country. I felt Christmas hope stirring again witnessing the thousands participating in the annual procession for Our Lady of Guadalupe on International Boulevard near my home in Oakland last week. This was a defiant show of resistance and strength, powered by faith. And last week at the annual San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus concert in San Francisco, I felt it tangibly in my body as the queer angel choir performed a verse of “Silent Night” in American Sign Language. Memories flooded my entire being as they enacted this ancient story, using only their bodies to convey their joy. When we’re singing about a long-ago baby in Bethlehem, we must also care about the suffering children in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel as well as everyone vulnerable to gun violence. Find a place to celebrate your body and your spirit this Christmas. Derive strength from the example of resilient words becoming flesh, light candles alone or with others, and claim your Christmas joy. Queery Christmas and Justice New Year!t The Reverend Jim Mitulski, a gay man, is the pastor of the open and affirming Congregational Church of the Peninsula UCC in Belmont, California. It will have a Christmas Eve service Wednesday, December 24, at 9 p.m. For more information, visit ccpeninsula.org.

Politics >>

December 18-24, 2025 • Bay Area Repor ter • 5

Gay Richmond CA councilmember Cesar Zepeda seeks 2nd term by Matthew S. Bajko

ooking over the site of Richmond, California’s largely abandoned Hilltop Mall, gay City Councilmember Cesar Zepeda sees potential for a future reimagining of the property. He envisions residents of his East Bay city receiving medical care inside a hospital built there that could be managed by Contra Costa County or a private health care provider. To reach their medical appointments, patients could jump into driverless transit vehicles run by Glydways, which is working to bring a 28-mile Automated Transit Network to East Contra Costa County in partnership with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority and Tri Delta Transit. In the meantime, the company has opened a development and demonstration facility on a portion of the vacant shopping center site where it can test out its Glydcars. “The Glydways Development Facility is a transformative project that embodies the City of Richmond’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth,” noted Zepeda in the company’s announcement last December of its moving into a portion of the shopping center and its parking lot. Not only could such vehicles have a stop at the mall site, which is located within his District 2 council seat boundaries, but Zepeda can envision them possibly gliding across San Francisco Bay via a dedicated lane on a rebuilt Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. In doing so, they could connect commuters and visitors with two regional transit systems – BART’s current end-of-theline station in Richmond and SMART’s southern terminus in Larkspur. With the current bridge structure 69 years old, Zepeda is pushing regional transportation leaders, elected officials, and bridge users to begin the process of imagining what its replacement will look like and feature, as he urged in a September video marking the bridge’s birthday that he recorded with Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia. The typical lifespan of a bridge being 100 years, and the timeline for approving a replacement being 10 to 15 years, Zepeda has already been holding meetings with decisionmakers to start the conversation about replacing the important conduit between the East Bay and North Bay. “We want a new bridge for a lot of different reasons,” noted Zepeda, citing structural integrity as well as meeting the transportation needs of today’s Bay Area and those in the future as he gave the Political Notebook a tour of his city and council district in early December. “Since the bridge was first built, the needs of the community have changed, and we have to change with it.” (He had planned to bike the bridge for the first time last month on his 45th birthday but didn’t due to it raining that day. Zepeda now hopes to do so next November, as a bicycle and pedestrian path across it is open weekly at 2 p.m. Thursday until 11 p.m. Sunday though is remaining accessible throughout the holidays until Sunday, January 4.) No matter what happens with the bridge, Zepeda would like to see the Glydways project result in providing his constituents and other Richmond residents a mode of transit to reach the city’s historic Point Richmond shopping and dining district and the Richmond Ferry Terminal providing an aquatic route to reach downtown San Francisco. “More people will want to live here because it will be easier to commute to work in the city,” said Zepeda, who called the Glydcars “exciting technology that will be able to move 10,000 people in an hour.”

Matthew S. Bajko

Richmond City Councilmember Cesar Zepeda provided a tour of the old Hilltop Mall site where he’d like to see a hospital constructed.

Zepeda cited his advocacy around the major infrastructure projects for his city and council district as examples of how he has approached his role as an elected official during his first four-year term on his governing body. In addition to addressing everyday concerns, from fixing potholes and preventing flooding of a historically Black neighborhood he represents, Zepeda also has his eye on long-term planning even if the projects may not come to fruition during his tenure on the council. “I jokingly say I don’t mind begging for my community,” quipped Zepeda. His refusal to take no as an answer is physically represented by the stuffed toy version of his city’s mascot, an osprey, that Zepeda named Will and has accompany him to meetings. “I tell people we now have Will, so if there is a Will then there is a way, so let’s find it. People think I am crazy, which I am,” he joked. The Bay Area Reporter asked the freshman councilmember to show off his council district and discuss the projects he is pursuing in light of his seeking a second four-year term in 2026. Due to a change in how his city runs its council elections, his race to maintain his seat is scheduled for the June 2 primary ballot along with the contests for mayor and two other council seats, for District 3 and 4. If multiple candidates seek the positions then a winner will be declared next spring if someone receives more than 50% of the vote. If that threshold isn’t met then the top two vote-getters will advance to a runoff race on the November fall ballot. The filing deadline to enter the races is March 6, and to date, Zepeda has yet to draw a challenger for his council seat. Should he be the lone candidate, he told the B.A.R. he won’t need to mount a campaign and will automatically be sworn into a sophomore term. It will mark quite the turnaround from his 2022 race, in which he made national headlines for ending up in a tie with his opponent, Andrew Butt, with 1,921 votes each. Zepeda was declared the winner due to the city clerk drawing his name out of a red Christmas holiday shopping bag that December, as the Political Notebook reported at the time. When Zepeda took his oath of office in January 2023, he became the first out gay man to serve on his council and the second out councilmember in the city’s history. The first, lesbian former councilmember Jovanka Beckles, cycled off the governing body in 2018. Zepeda had lost his first bid for a city council seat in 2016 and, three years later, was appointed to a vacant seat on the West County Wastewater District board. Rather than seek a full term on that body, he jumped into the 2022 council race. Raised in the small city of San Martin in Jalisco State, Mexico, Zepeda

immigrated to the U.S. at age 8. Currently single, Zepeda lives in Richmond’s Hilltop district with his German Shorthaired Pointers Zulu, 5, and Zeke, 4 and a half. He disclosed to the B.A.R. that he had refinanced his house in case he needed to self-finance his previous council campaign. “Luckily,” he recalled, he didn’t need to due to people contributing to his candidacy. While he could hardly imagine then that he might not draw an opponent four years later, Zepeda said he has worked hard to lay the groundwork to successfully seek reelection. He holds annual strategy meetings with his constituents in a different part of the district each year in addition to holding quarterly drop-in hours at coffee shops in the neighborhoods he represents. Zepeda said he strives to respond to as many emails and phone calls as he can being a part-time councilmember with no staff of his own. (The six council members, who earn $30,294 a year and serve alongside the mayor, share one staff person, Zepeda noted.) “I show up everywhere. I am very visible,” said Zepeda, who will step down as vice mayor next month. “My aim is to be accessible to the people, that is what it is about … I am not running from your issues; I want to know them. I can’t do that just every four years during elections.” Repeatedly fielding questions this year on if he would jump into his city’s 2026 mayoral race, in which Mayor Eduardo Martinez is running for his second two-year term, Zepeda told the B.A.R. he ruled out doing so. Mainly, he said, because it would mean giving up his council seat with no guarantee of winning what is shaping up to be a crowded mayor’s race, with three people already pulling papers to oppose the incumbent. “I don’t have a safe seat so it is very difficult. I don’t want to risk my seat,” responded Zepeda when asked about his 2026 electoral considerations. He didn’t rule out running in 2030 when the position will be open, as Richmond term limits its mayors to serving two four-year terms. As there are no term limits for council members, Zepeda could instead opt to seek a third term should he secure a second term next year. Pressed on his interest to someday seek higher office, Zepeda told the B.A.R. that he has “no ambition right now” to do so and that next year he “will not be running for county supervisor or Congress or mayor.” Until he decides to do so, his focus remains on his duties as a councilmember, addressing the needs of his constituents and dreaming up future possibilities for his city as it evolves amid an influx of new residents seeking more affordable rents and home prices. As for his push to see a hospital be built at the old mall site, Zepeda noted people who are not patients at Kaiser, which has a medical center in town, have to travel to the county-run hospital in Martinez or to Alameda County for their medical care like himself, as Sutter Health is his medical provider and his doctor is in Oakland. “It is not equitable. We have a hospital desert in this area,” contended Zepeda, a health and benefits consultant with professional services firm Aon. “Just because it is a challenge doesn’t mean we should not fight it.” Having not just a new hospital, but one with a trauma center, will benefit all of the surrounding cities and towns, he noted, especially in the event of a catastrophic calamity like an earthquake. “It is not just I want one and not just for Richmond, I am doing this as a regional approach,” said Zepeda, pointing out that his city’s charter calls for it to administer a hospital. “Critics, other electeds and people I meet see a big hill blocking the path to get to the other side, and I respond that I am a climber. I will climb it.”t

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12/17/25 9:18 AM

<< Community News

6 • Bay Area Repor ter • December 18-24, 2025

Senior housing

From page 1

“We are ecstatic to receive this award and are eager to move the project forward to deliver much needed housing for our community!” Mercy senior project manager Sean Wils told the B.A.R. following the decision by the growth council last week. Added Morey Riordan, a transgender man who took over as executive director of Openhouse in mid-October, “With this new, truly affordable housing project, we are one step closer to a world in which LGBTQ+ older adults can remain part of the communities they helped to shape.” Wils, a straight ally, lives not far from the site at 1939 Market Street and has been working on the project since early 2023. Former San Francisco mayor London Breed’s administration paid $12 million in 2020 to acquire the 7,840 square foot lot from the Sheet Metal Workers Local 104 specifically to build LGBTQ-affirming senior housing on it. It then chose Mercy and Openhouse to construct it. The cost to build it is pegged around $116 million. Two years ago, the city awarded $52,360,000 in gap funding – the allocation was based on a per unit amount of $280,000 – that was contingent on Mercy receiving state financing for the project. It must still secure roughly $100 million before ground can be broken. In mid-May, Mercy plans to apply for 4% low-income housing tax credits

Unanimous decision

As the B.A.R. first reported online Friday, December 5, the project from Mercy, Openhouse, and the city was included among the list of 21 applications the council staff had recommended be approved this year. The growth council’s 10-member oversight body composed of various state agency leaders, including lesbian Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Tomiquia Moss of Oakland, unanimously voted last Wednesday to award the latest round of funding. “California continues to build affordable homes that strengthen our climate resilience,” stated Moss. “With more than $4.8 billion invested to date, we are creating healthier, more connected neighborhoods where all Californians can thrive. Our state and our governor are all in when it comes to supporting safe and livable communities.” Also selected was an application submitted by the John Stewart Company, which is constructing in partnership with Catholic Charities San Francisco 150 permanently affordable rental homes for low-income households on the city’s Treasure Island in the middle of the bay. That project, featuring a mix of studios, one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes, with dedicated homes for families, existing Treasure Island residents, and formerly homeless households, is receiving $45.1 million from the growth council program. “This funding marks important progress toward expanding affordable housing in District 6 and throughout

Outdoors

From page 1

quintet of hikes in 2025 and is looking to award it a similar amount in 2026. “This investment reflects our commitment to expanding access to nature and supporting community-led outdoor experiences. While there is no formal title for the Midpen and Branching Out specific partnership, the overall program is called the Community Partnership Program,” Midpen spokesperson Natalie Jolly told the B.A.R. “Midpen’s Community Partnership Program focuses on similar collaborative efforts we’ve established with other local nonprofit organizations for increased community engagement.” Taking part in the Monte Bello hike, her first with Branching Out, was Eleanor Raab, 26, who is bisexual and in April was hired by Midpen as a public affairs specialist. She noted the preserve is the only one where such night hikes are allowed. “We do night hikes here every so often with docents,” said Raab, adding they are among her favorite events since they allow participants “to see something they’ve known for a while in a new light.” The collaborations Midpen has with different outside groups like Branching Out helps bring people to its open spaces who may otherwise not visit them on their own, noted Raab. “The outdoors should be this inclusive space,” she told the B.A.R.

Varied locations

The location for Branching Out’s hikes will determine where most participants come from, noted Feld. Thus, the Monte Bello excursion drew people mostly from the Peninsula and South Bay, while a queer ecology nature walk at Mt. Diablo State Park earlier in the year had a largely East Bay contingent of participants. The camping trips it leads in the Sierra draw people from all over the greater

administered by the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC) and the California Debt Limit Allocation Committee (CDLAC). Wils told the B.A.R. he is hopeful Mercy’s application for that financing mechanism will be approved. It will allow it to then seek out a fiscal partner, most likely a bank, to buy the tax credits so Mercy can pay the construction costs and loans associated with the project. The state committees will announce their decisions August 18. If awarded the tax credits, Mercy will be required to start construction within 180 days, which happens to coincide with Valentine’s Day on February 14, 2027. Mercy is also required to give the union at least 30 days’ notice to vacate the property prior to breaking ground. “We are estimating a two-year construction duration. Then approximately a half year to achieve 100% lease-up,” said Wils, who told the B.A.R. under such a timeline all of the residents should be moved into the new building before the fall of 2029. Over the past two years, Mercy’s funding applications with the state growth council had been denied. It was one of 47 applicants in 2025 that had sought a portion of the $835,318,208 to be distributed to selected projects across the state; that figure represents the largest to date for the growth council’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program to disburse in a calendar year.

Editorial

From page 4

The parade also marked a first in 2019, when Rose Queen Louise Siskel made history on New Year’s Day as the first Jewish and LGBTQ queen in the Tournament of Roses Parade. Siskel, who is bisexual, wrote in a Los Angeles Times op-ed at the time that the Royal

Matthew S. Bajko

Ezra Smith, left, wore an acorn woodpecker costume as they listened to Tyler Feld during a hike at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve.

Bay Area, noted Feld. He aims to offer three such trips annually, with one being a more strenuous backpacking trip. The overnight excursions do require people to arrange for their own transportation, though Branching Out can help provide equipment like tents and sleeping bags. A donation of $50 is asked, but no one is turned away, noted Feld. “We want to prioritize people getting out into nature and being in community,” stressed Feld. Assisting him in the planning of them is the six-member board of directors he convened to help with oversight of the group, which received its official status as a nonprofit in April last year. One of the first people he asked to join the board was Laurel Wee, 31, who is bisexual and resides in Berkeley. The two have been friends since 2017 and are colleagues, as Wee is a project manager with Grassroots Ecology. “I was really excited to be able to support him as a friend, and I think affinity spaces for specific groups of people are really important,” said Wee, who has gone on several of Branching Out’s camping trips and attended the Mt. Diablo hike, the group’s first collaboration with the nonprofit Save

Mount Diablo. Joe Rogers, 33, a gay San Francisco resident who had worked as an interpreter with California State Parks, joined the board of Branching Out in June. He first learned about the group from it being a nonprofit partner for a backpacking trip he volunteered on via the California State Parks Backpacking Adventures program in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Now working in tech, Rogers was looking for a way to still be involved in nature activities in some capacity. Becoming a Branching Out board member “was sort of the perfect fit,” he told the B.A.R. in a recent phone interview. “For me, personally, what I enjoy most is the sense of community we get to build in these experiences. It’s really nice to be in a collective group of LGBTQ-plus or queer folk and not really have to do a lot of the codeswitching that happens, especially in outdoor spaces that tend to be conservative even in California,” said Rogers, referring to people downplaying their queerness by being mindful of the speech or mannerisms they use in public. “We think of ourselves as a liberal state, especially the Bay Area is in a lot more of a liberal bubble, but in outdoor spaces there

Court for that year was one of the most diverse ever. For 2026, coinciding with its theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” the parade will feature former NBA star Ervin “Magic” Johnson as grand marshal. Johnson, of course, made headlines in 1991 when he publicly shared that he’s living with HIV. That jolted mainstream America, as people realized

HIV/AIDS does not discriminate. Today, Johnson is proud of his gay son, EJ. All of this is to say that SF Travel could have been in the forefront by promoting one of the best things about San Francisco – its queer community and the history we share with the city. Anna Marie Presutti, president and CEO of SF Travel, told us this week that the organization plans

the city,” noted gay District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who represents the man-made island originally built for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition and is connected to the naturally-occurring Yerba Buena Island. “These investments will help deliver stable, long-term opportunities for the residents who need them most.” Mayor Daniel Lurie praised the growth council’s fiscal support for both of the San Francisco projects. “The funding awarded today will help us add housing so that more San Franciscans can have a safe, stable place to call home,” Lurie stated December 12. “This investment reflects the kind of work our administration is doing every day – delivering affordable homes for families, seniors, and longtime residents who want to continue calling San Francisco home. Thank you to our state partners, our nonprofit developers, and the communities behind these projects for their partnership as we continue the work to build more housing.” The new tower of LGBTQ-affirming senior housing had been approved by city planners to have 106 rent-restricted studios and 79 rent-restricted one-bedrooms for seniors. A onebedroom unit plus a two-bedroom unit are to be set aside for on-site managers employed by Mercy, while Openhouse is to provide programming and other services to the tenants who will be selected by the lottery to be overseen by the city. When the new building does open

to tenants, 40 units will be set aside for formerly homeless seniors subsidized by the city’s Local Operating Subsidy Program. Another 75 units are to serve extremely low-income seniors via the city’s Senior Operating Subsidy. Nine units will be set aside for the city’s Plus Housing program for homeless seniors who make 50% of the area median income, with the remaining 70 units for seniors with incomes at 50% to 60% AMI. The Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, after selecting Mercy and Openhouse to oversee the project, had awarded $4 million for predevelopment costs such as design work. The project had been estimated to have a total price tag of $159,669,745 once all costs and the developer’s fee were added in. Vinny Eng, a gay man who worked on the project in his capacity as an Openhouse board member and then the agency’s interim executive director this year until stepping down on October 17, credited Wils for successfully navigating the application process this year. “I am very grateful for the investment by the state of California and confident Mercy and Openhouse will deliver a long overdue expansion of affordable housing to serve the LGBTQ+ community,” said Eng, noting he lives just up the street from the project site. “I am excited to see this go up and thrilled the skyline will have a physical expression of my very short but impactful tenure at Openhouse.”t

is a lot of conservative or outdated thinking, especially about queer folks.” Via Branching Out, Rogers can get to be with queer, transgender, and nonbinary people who also want to enjoy the outdoors in a worry-free manner. He also likes how the organization allows people “to choose your own adventure” by offering activities that range from being easy to more demanding of participants. “It is really great, almost a breath of fresh air or a sigh of relief, to be in an outdoor space together and just sort of experience the beauty and wonder and excitement of being outdoors and to discover what the natural world has to show for us that day,” said Rogers, “without having to wonder am I being too gay or too queer.” Wee, who grew up in Berkeley, noted venturing into the wilderness on one’s own can be intimidating, particularly for people who have never done so with family or friends growing up. And being LGBTQ can add to a sense of not belonging in such natural settings alone and concerned about whom one may encounter also out hiking, Wee told the B.A.R. during a recent phone interview. It is why the excursions offered by Branching Out are important, she added.

“I think everyone should be able to access and have a sense of belonging in the outdoors,” said Wee. “I think we know it can be really intimidating, in general, to do new things and doing things outdoors can be even harder because of not knowing what you don’t know and how safe you will be.” There is “a lot of joy” in being with other LGBTQ individuals in the outdoors, noted Wee, who plans events in nature for various affinity groups as part of her professional job. She is looking at how Branching Out can allow more people, not just the board members, to take on leadership roles in planning events in the new year. “It is nice for people to have spaces that feel safe and in which they can celebrate together,” said Wee, adding, “we are hoping to work on finding ways for people to have more leadership or ways to help out in co-leading or supporting events.” The purpose of the outings isn’t to track who did the hike in the fastest time or gained the most incline, noted Rogers. The aim is pure enjoyment of the natural world, he stressed. “The point of Branching Out is to hang out outside, make new friends, create community together in the outdoors, and really celebrate queerness in a time where that is really important for us to do as a community,” said Rogers, “to come together, celebrate each other, create these safe spaces to be ourselves and make those connections.”

Upcoming events

Matthew S. Bajko

A scorpion was illuminated with an ultraviolet flashlight during a hike at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve.

to have a float in the 2027 Rose Parade. She is thinking about promoting the arts, and indicated an LGBTQ reference could fit into that theme. We were happy to hear that. But here’s the thing: when a city like San Francisco promotes itself to the world, one of the first things people think about is the LGBTQ community, whether they are part of it or support it as straight allies,

Branching Out Adventures has two tide pool outings planned for the end of the year, one on December 31 at Carmet Beach in Bodega Bay along the Sonoma Coast and another January 1 at one of the Sonoma Coast State Park sites. To learn more about those trips and to sign up for them or other upcoming hikes planned at Bay Area parks and for its 2026 camping trips, visit Branching Out’s website at branchingoutadv.org.t whether in the arts or being a tourist at Pier 39. We imagine more than a few people watching the Rose Parade will be scratching their heads when they see there is no rainbow flag sprouting up from the float or a replica of the Castro Theater, which just weeks later will be reopening after a major renovation of the historic structure. Here’s hoping SF Travel will do better next time.t

t <<

From the Cover >>

Rose Parade float

From page 1

“It is the first time in a very long time, and we leaned into sports and we touched the big assets. It was a matter of what we could get on the float,” SF Travel President and CEO Anna Marie Presutti told the B.A.R. in a phone interview December 15. Presutti, a straight ally, said that she spoke recently to a group and ended her comments with “Happy Pride” even though it was not during Pride Month in June. “Because every day is Pride,” she said. Presutti said that SF Travel is already in the process for a Rose Parade float in 2027. “We’re thinking of leaning into arts and culture,” she said, adding that some sort of recognition of the LGBTQ community would fit into that. But for 2026, the float will be without a rainbow flag or some other symbol of the queer community. The float features familiar city landmarks – the Golden Gate Bridge, the Victorian Painted Ladies, Chinatown’s Dragon Gate, a cable car, and the Pier 39 sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf. While there is not a depiction of a rainbow flag, officials noted the float reflects San Francisco. “It’s all-encompassing of the city,” Lori Lincoln, SF Travel vice president global PR and media relations, stated in an email to the B.A.R. “The color palette reflects the diversity and beauty of the city.” The Rose Parade will be televised nationally January 1, beginning at 8 a.m. on NBC, drawing millions of viewers,

as well as the thousands of people who line the parade route in the Southern California city. The uniqueness of the parade is that floats have to use 100% all-natural materials, such as flowers, seeds, bark, leaves, spices, and moss to cover every visible surface. Presutti said the parade is an opportunity for the 50 million people from around the globe who watch the televised broadcasts of it to discover the City-by-the-Bay as it continues to bounce back from the drop off in tourism seen during the height of the COVID pandemic. According to the travel bureau’s most recent annual visitor count, visitation in 2024 climbed 1.1% from 2023 to roughly 23.3 million visitors, but it was still down 10.4% compared to 2019. “We have to get it right,” she said. “When that float makes the ‘Big Turn,’ there’s no question who that float belongs to.” She was referring to the sharp corner at Orange Grove and Colorado boulevards that floats have to carefully maneuver and is where the broadcasters’ booths are located. “That’s the TV moment, when people will say, ‘Oh, San Francisco is here,’” Presutti said. “And I think that’s exactly what the float will do – show everything the city has to offer.” In addition to the city’s well-known landmarks on the float, the city’s sports teams will be represented by marchers alongside it, Presutti explained, including the San Francisco Giants, Golden State Warriors, and Golden State Valkyries. Additionally, there will be members of the LGBTQ community in the contingent, which will consist of 14 people. One of them is Taylor Cohn, a gay

December 18-24, 2025 • Bay Area Repor ter • 7 man who is senior manager of global content and communications at SF Travel. He told the B.A.R. that he is excited to be part of the festivities. “When Anna Marie started, her goal was for the company and the brand to show up in unexpected places,” he said in a phone interview, adding the Rose Parade is part of that. Presutti was named president and CEO of SF Travel in September 2024. She had been serving in an interim capacity since May of that year. She succeeded Joe D’Alessandro, a gay man who led the organization from 2006 to the end of 2023. Cohn said he’s lived in San Francisco for 10 years and has worked for SF Travel for that time. “Coming out of the COVID hole, we’re trying some new things,” he added. Cohn said that the float is special for all San Franciscans. “The float incorporates a number of recognizable San Francisco icons that represent some of the city’s most famous neighborhoods – and as a gay man who has lived in San Francisco for a decade, I can say that I’ve never felt unwelcome in any of them,” he added. “When visitors would ask which was the gay neighborhood of San Francisco, we at SF Travel would always answer, ‘all of them.’ “For the time, space, and materials we’ve been allotted, I think the float design is one that everyone in the city can be excited about and have pride in,” noted Cohn.

Help decorate the float

Presutti is also promoting that people can help decorate the float, starting

Friday, December 19, through Sunday, December 21. There will be a special Winter Walk activation and ribboncutting in Union Square Friday at 11 a.m. on Stockton Street between Geary Boulevard and O’Farrell Street. At the ribbon-cutting, kids will decorate three of the signature float pieces. That kicks off a weekend of hand-on fun as members of the public can help out from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through December 21, a news release noted. Presutti noted the float will be under a tent so, in the event of rain, people won’t get wet. This year’s Rose Parade theme is “The Magic in Teamwork.” The grand marshal is NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who disclosed in 1991 that he’s living with HIV. That served as a public health catalyst and changed the public’s understanding of who’s at risk for the disease. Today, Johnson is an investor in several sports franchises and is the proud father of EJ, his son who enjoys gender-fluid dress and came out as gay in 2013. Back in 2014, with same-sex marriage legal in California due to a federal court ruling, a Los Angeles male couple had made history by becoming the first same-sex couple to wed on a float in the Rose Parade, as CBS News reported at the time. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation had sponsored the float two years after entering its first in the beloved Southern California New Year’s tradition. As the Los Angeles-based nonprofit recalled in a Facebook post in January, that float was the first “in the 123 years of the Rose Parade that addressed a social issue, and the first to address HIV/AIDS.” Except for 2021

and 2024, AHF has had floats in the parade ever since. SF Travel officials said they are excited about representing the city in the 2026 parade. “It’s an honor to showcase San Francisco on such a celebrated global stage,” Presutti stated. “Our float will capture the culture, diversity, and collaborative spirit that define our city, and we hope it sparks joy and inspiration for parade viewers everywhere.” The 55 foot float is designed by Fiesta Productions Inc. The release stated that more than 100,000 blooms will bring the city’s icons to life in an organic explosion of color. “We set out to capture the spirit, color, and creativity that make San Francisco one of the world’s most beloved cities,” stated lead designer Mike Abboud. “This design celebrates its iconic beauty, diverse culture, and enduring welcome to travelers everywhere.” Lincoln stated that SF Travel, which is paying for and sponsoring the float, submitted an application to the Rose Parade and it was accepted. She did not have an estimated cost to share. Presutti also declined to share cost figures, though she said it was “incredibly reasonable.” Most of the cost is in materials and paying the float builders, she noted. “We were able to do it even being a not-for-profit,” she said. Presutti said she will head down to Pasadena December 28. The float will undergo its final decorations in time for judging December 30. The last year there was a San Francisco float in the parade was 1978, Lincoln stated, adding the first year the city had a float was 1917.t

a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: GARY ROBERT LIEBERMAN (SBN 71684), 7 MT. LASSEN DR #A150, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903; Ph. (415) 897-2226.

McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

Legals>> LET IT BE KNOWN TO ALL PEOPLE OF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA –

This is public notice and affirmation that a baby boy, VENCISLAV STILIYANOV has been born on the land in a mortal body to the Simov family. The family welcomed their baby earthside on the land of the geographical location commonly known as [Concord, California Republic, united States of America] North America on the 15th day of February in the calendar year 2025 AD. He is happy, healthy and thriving!

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

LET IT BE KNOWN TO ALL PEOPLE OF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA –

This is public notice and affirmation that a baby boy, VALENTIN DANIEL has been born on the land in a mortal body to the Simov family. The family welcomed their baby earthside on the land of the geographical location commonly known as [Concord, California Republic, united States of America] North America on the 12th day of June in the calendar year 2023 AD. He is happy, healthy and thriving!

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

LET IT BE KNOWN TO ALL PEOPLE OF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA –

This is public notice and affirmation that a baby girl, VYARA GRACE has been born on the land in a mortal body to the Simova family. The family welcomed their baby earthside on the land of the geographical location commonly known as [Concord, California Republic, united States of America] North America on the 25th day of September in the calendar year 2019 AD. She is happy, healthy and thriving!

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560262

To all interested persons, the Petitioner LANNA HABICH POOVEY filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name LANNA HABICH POOVEY to proposed name LANNA LILY TAMLIN. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 06, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560259

To all interested persons, the Petitioner KIM MIKIALA GOODNESS filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name KIM MIKIALA GOODNESS to proposed name DAVID KIM MIKIALA GOODNESS. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: DECEMBER 30, 2025, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560265

To all interested persons, the Petitioner KAREN ELIZABETH BOHANAN AKA RENATE MORGAN ELSTERANDREWS filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name KAREN ELIZABETH BOHANAN AKA RENATE MORGAN ELSTERANDREWS to proposed name RENATE MORGAN ELSTER. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 06, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407785 Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): WEST PORTAL KIND, 480 MAGELLAN AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): SETH MILLER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under

the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/12/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/12/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407719

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): SUSAN ANTHONY EVENTS, 517 WALLER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): SUSAN A. ANTHONY. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/2019. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/31/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407875

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): KMS MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICES, 2022 24TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): GORDON LEMUEL SALUBA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/24/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/24/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407866

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): SYMPHONY INN, 465 GROVE ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by a general partnership. Registrant/Owner(s): CHIRAG INVESTMENT COMPANY (CA), SUBHASH L. PATEL & PRAKASH L. PATEL. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/21/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407815

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): SMUGGLER’S COVE, 650 GOUGH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): FOGCUTTER INDUSTRIES (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/08/2009. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/14/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407850

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ROAR SHACK, 34 7TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/ Owner(s): THE LIVING EARTH SHOW (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/18/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407860

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): TSA HOLDING GROUP, 2345 BALBOA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94121. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): TSA HOLDING GROUP LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/21/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/11/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407853

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ZH GROUP, 870 TARAVAL ST #B, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/ Owner(s): ZH GROUP REALTY INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/11/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/19/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407877

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): MISSION DOLORES BASILICA CONFERENCE, 3321 16TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL DISTRICT COUNCIL OF SAN FRANCISCO (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 07/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/24/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE

2025-0407569

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): CONJUNCTION, 470 CONDOR AVE, BEN LOMOND, CA 95005. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): RETURNSIQ INC (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/28/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/27/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407547

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ALBERO USA, 111 RHODE ISLAND ST #6, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): MAVERICK IMPORTS, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/15/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 10/15/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407851

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): MEAT PACKERS, 1045 MISSION ST #1, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): POLLALASTARLLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/19/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407865

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): MOMMY’S INDIAN GROCERY, 1138 FOLSOM ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): LALIT SAHA ESTATES LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/21/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560282

To all interested persons, the Petitioner MARLENE BARRON MARTINEZ & JONATHAN RUIZ HERNANDEZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name LIAM JOAN RUIZ MARTINEZ to proposed name LIAM JOAN RUIZ BARRON. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 08, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560283

To all interested persons, the Petitioner JOSEPH CHUI & TITPISOT CHUI filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name JUN YIK CHUI to proposed name JUN YUT CHUI. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 08, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407872

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560292

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): GOOSE AND CO GROOMING, 4391 24TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): PILATES AND PLATE LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/15/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/24/2025.

NOV 27, DEC 04, 11, 18, 2025

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF HOWARD PARKER JOHNSTON JR. AKA HOWARD JOHNSTON IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO: CASE NUMBER PES-25-308582

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of HOWARD PARKER JOHNSTON JR. AKA HOWARD JOHNSTON. A Petition for Probate and Amendments have been filed by GARY ROBERT LIEBERMAN in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. The Petition for Probate requests that GARY ROBERT LIEBERMAN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: DECEMBER 29, 2025, 9:00 am, Dept. 204, Rm. 204, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined by section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court

To all interested persons, the Petitioner HARRISON LOUIS CRENSHAW filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name HARRISON LOUIS CRENSHAW AKA HARRISON LOUIS-ANÚ CRENSHAW AKA ANÚ CRENSHAW to proposed name HARRISON LOUIS-ANÚ CRENSHAW. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 13, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560294

To all interested persons, the Petitioner MARIIA SYROMOLOTOVA filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name MARIA SYROMOLOTOVA to proposed name MARIA BAYOR. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103, Rm. 103, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560287

To all interested persons, the Petitioner REINA DELA PAZ ZAVALA ALVAREZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name REINA DELA PAZ ZAVALA ALVAREZ to proposed name REINA DELA PAZ ORELLANA. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 08, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560296

To all interested persons, the Petitioner DISHON RENE IRVING filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name DISHON RENE IRVING to proposed name DISHON ROBERT GETER. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103, Rm. 103, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560297

To all interested persons, the Petitioner EUGENIO ARTURO CAMPINI filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name EUGENIO ARTURO CAMPINI to proposed name EUGENIO ARTURO CAMPINI SILVA. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103, Rm. 103, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560298

To all interested persons, the Petitioner LILIYA BATTALOVA filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name LILIYA BATTALOVA AKA LILIYA MARATOVNA BATTALOVA AKA LILIYA BATTALOVA DUMESNIL to proposed name LILIYA DUMESNIL. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103, Rm. 103, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407777

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): CIVIL WORKS ENGINEERING, 525 CORDOVA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): RICARDO A. GALDAMEZ. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/10/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407857

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): MASON LAW & MEDIATION, 2880 JACKSON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): ANI VAN DYKE MASON. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/20/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407833

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): AC WRIGHT PROPERTIES, 1327 19TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): AMOS CHRISTOPHER WRIGHT. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/17/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/17/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407913

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): MOMENTS-N-TYME EVENTS SERVICES AND PARTY PLANNING, 293 SAGAMORE ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/

<< Classifieds

8 • Bay Area Repor ter • December 18-24, 2025

Owner(s): RAYSHAWN WRIGHT. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/26/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/26/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407916 Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): LEDGER HOUSE PRESS, 2172 PACIFIC AVE #1, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): XIN TONG. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/01/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407893

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): CONSTRUCTIVE, 28 GEARY ST STE 650 #2503, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): INTERWEB, INC. (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/25/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407839

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): EARTHWHILE ENDEAVORS; EARTHBATH; EARTHWHILE PET CARE, 231 9TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/ Owner(s): EARTHWHILE ENDEAVORS, INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/05/1995. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/17/2025.

McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560289 To all interested persons, the Petitioner MICHAL MICHELLE SOFER AKA MIKHAL MICHELLE SOFER filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name MICHAL MICHELLE SOFER AKA MIKHAL MICHELLE SOFER to proposed name MIKHAL SOFER WERBOFF. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 13, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560299 To all interested persons, the Petitioner CYNTHIA RACHEL ASHFORD filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name CYNTHIA RACHEL ASHFORD to proposed name LUNADAWN THADWELL. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 13, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407858

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560312

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): PURE SKINZ, 5214 F DIAMOND HEIGHTS BLVD #3120, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94131. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): PURE SKINZ AESTHETICS (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/21/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/21/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407844

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): VY INTERIOR DECORATING, 308 24TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94121. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): VY INTERIOR DECORATING, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/13/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/18/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407856

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): WEST COAST BREAD FEST, 2453 38TH AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): THE EARLY RISE LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/12/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/20/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407919

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): DATE & DACQUOISE, 4618 3RD ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): DATE & DACQUOISE LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/01/2025.

DEC 04, 11, 18, 25, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560301

To all interested persons, the Petitioner BILLYBRUCE RONALD LAMBERT filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name BILLYBRUCE RONALD LAMBERT to proposed name BRUCE ALLEN NELMS and present name BILLYBRUCE RONALD LAMBERT JR. to proposed name ELIAS KORY NELMS. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 13, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560303

To all interested persons, the Petitioner DAVID ANTONIO MARTINEZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name DAVID ANTONIO MARTINEZ to proposed name DAVIAN AMIR LIRA. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560306

To all interested persons, the Petitioner JOHN DAVID WILKINSON filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name JOHN DAVID WILKINSON to proposed name JACOB MICHAEL HUNTER. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560295

To all interested persons, the Petitioner DINH ETHAN XUAN TRINH filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name DINH ETHAN XUAN TRINH to proposed name ETHAN XUAN TRINH. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 15, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103, Rm. 103, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560308

To all interested persons, the Petitioner KIMBERLY CELENIA MANCIA DE MARTINEZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name KIMBERLY CELENIA MANCIA DE MARTINEZ AKA KIMBERLY MANCIA to proposed name KIMBERLY CELENIA MANCIA VASQUEZ. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 20, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400

To all interested persons, the Petitioner BRIAN K. CURTIS filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name BRIAN K. CURTIS to proposed name MAESTRO BRIAN K. CURTIS. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 20, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407926

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): STARTUP SMARTUP; PFL ACADEMY, 2380 CALIFORNIA ST #402, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): JUSTIN GHIGLIA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/02/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/02/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407912

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): CARRANZA TRANSPORT, 1951 QUINT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): FREDYS H. CARRANZA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/26/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407940

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): BLUE BISON BUILDERS, 2156 MARKET ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): LUIS FERNANDO MAIRENA RIVAS. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/04/2024. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/03/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407885

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): CLARITY RESEARCH CONSULTING, 3023 FRANKLIN ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): MARIA VEDECHKINA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/14/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/25/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407896

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): MACDONALD LAW, 100 PINE ST #1250, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): DUNCAN MACDONALD. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/25/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407948

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): WINGIS SERVICES, 2199 TURK BLVD #4, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): ASHER ZELINSKY. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/05/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/05/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407954

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): PAWS IN MOTION SF, 1035 DOUGLASS ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): PEDRO VASQUEZ. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/05/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/08/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407957

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ROBOTFITNESS, 201 HARRISON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): ANITA CHUGANI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/25/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/08/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407812

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ALL SMOG IN N OUT, 172 HARRIET ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a married couple. Registrant/Owner(s): GULISTAN BORTUCENE & OKTAY BORTUCENE. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/12/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/14/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407890

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): EXCEL PLUMBING SUPPLY & SHOWROOM, 659 S VAN NESS AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): TAMXL CORP (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 09/22/2010. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/25/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407956

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): NO BARRIERS COMMUNITY SERVICES, 447 SUTTER ST #506-1415, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): NO BARRIERS COMMUNITY HOUSING (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed

fictitious business name or names on 11/13/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/08/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407821

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): BUS STOP, 1901 UNION ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/ Owner(s): LRJ VENTURES (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 06/05/2021. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/14/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407823

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): LEFT DOOR, 1905 UNION ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/ Owner(s): LRJ VENTURES (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/22/2023. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/14/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407824

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): FINAL FINAL, 2990 BAKER ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): LRJ VENTURES (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 07/04/2024. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/14/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407904

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): BLU ANGELS HEALTHCARE LLC, ONE SANSOME ST #1400, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): BLU ANGELS HEALTHCARE LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/25/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/25/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407936

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): LITTLE LITTLE FLORAL PRODUCTION, 707 CAPITOL AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): LITTLE LITTLE FLORAL PRODUCTION. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 08/24/2023. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/03/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407932

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): FOGCUTTER TOURS, 124 BENTON AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): SF ADVENTURE TOURS, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/27/2020. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/03/2025.

DEC 11, 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 2026

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF JAIME LACANLALE ALAMARES IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO: CASE NUMBER PES-25-309047

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of JAIME LACANLALE ALAMARES. A Petition for Probate has been filed by MICHELLE OAKLEY in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. The Petition for Probate requests that MICHELLE OAKLEY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: JANUARY 12, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 204, Rm. 204, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined by section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: SRIJANA DHAKHWA (SBN 340899), ARYA LEGAL CALIFORNIA, 900 MISSION AVE #11C, SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901; Ph. (415) 488-5552.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, DEC 31, 2026

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF DORIS JOHANNA MEHLER IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO: CASE NUMBER PES-25-309016

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of DORIS JOHANNA MEHLER. A Petition for Probate has been filed by HOLLY MILLAR in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. The Petition for Probate requests that HOLLY MILLAR be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: JANUARY 06, 2025, 9:00 am, Rm. 204, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined by section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: HOLLY MILLAR, 1740 BROADWAY #701, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109; Ph. (415) 747-7296.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, DEC 31, 2026

SUMMONS IN A CIVIL ACTION IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA. SCOTTSDALE INSURANCE COMPANY, AN OHIO CORPORATION, PLAINTIFF(S) V. REPAIRPAL,

INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION, AND AUBREY JACKSON SHELTON II, A CALIFORNIA CITIZEN, DEFENDANT(S). CIVIL ACTION NO. 25-CV-05094DMR

To Defendant: AUBREY JACKSON SHELTON II, a California citizen, 2261 Market St #4705, San Francisco, CA 94114. A lawsuit has been filed against you. Within 21 days after the service of this summons on you (not counting the day you received it) - or 60 days if you are the United States or the United States agency, or an officer or employee of the United States described in Fed. R. Civ. P. 12 (a)(2) or (3) - you must serve on the plaintiff an answer to the attached complaint or a motion under Rule 12 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The answer or motion must be served on the plaintiff or plaintiff’s attorney, whose name and address are: COZEN O’CONNOR, VALERIE D. ROJAS (SBN 180041), VROJAS@COZEN.COM, 601 SOUTH FIGUEROA ST #3700, LOS ANGELES, CA 90017. If you fail to respond, judgment by default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. You also must file your answer or motion with the court. Date 06/17/2025, Mark B. Busby, Clerk of the Court.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560319

To all interested persons, the Petitioner TIFFANY JUANA FUNG AKA JUANA TIFFANY TERESA LAUX filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name TIFFANY JUANA FUNG AKA JUANA TIFFANY TERESA LAUX to proposed name JUANA TIFFANY TERESA LAUX. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 22, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560321

To all interested persons, the Petitioner JUDITH CLAIRE BREES filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name JUDITH CLAIRE BREES AKA J. CLAIRE BREES AKA CLAIRE J. BREES to proposed name CLAIRE BREES. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 27, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560328

To all interested persons, the Petitioner RUI CHAO LI filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name RUI CHAO LI AKA JIMMY LEE to proposed name JIMMY LEE. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 27, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25560332

To all interested persons, the Petitioner FELIX KERZHNER AKA FELIKS KERZHNER filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name FELIX KERZHNER AKA FELIKS KERZHNER to proposed name FELIKS KERZHNER. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: JANUARY 27, 2026, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407975

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ANTONIETA CONSULTING SERVICES, 222 TAYLOR ST #202, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): MARIA A. JANDRES. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/13/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/10/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407867

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): YVES NOIRE, 1518 UNION ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94123. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/ Owner(s): LISA GONZALES. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/21/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/21/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407999

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ACES PROPERTY SOLUTIONS, 91 ELLINGTON AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): FLORENCE LAUZON. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/15/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407972

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): THE LOTUS PRACTICE, 28 GEARY ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant/Owner(s): ANJNA CHAMPANERI. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/10/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407949

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): A B PLUMBING; A.B. PLUMBING; PRECISION FLOW PLUMBING: PRECISIONFLOW PLUMBING, 910 SILLIMAN ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94134. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): AB PLUMBING INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/03/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/05/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407968

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): GREPTILE, 50 FRANCISCO ST #130, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): TABNAM, INC. (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 07/23/2024. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/10/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0408001

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ERGOEROTICS; CENTER FOR SEXUAL HEALTH AND REHABILITATION; SUTHE; SUTHE PRODUCTS; PAMPERED PETAL; BLUSHING LOTUS; SOOTHE PRODUCTS, 28 GEARY ST #650, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant/Owner(s): THE SQUARED H CORPORATION (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 10/01/2012. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/15/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407963

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): NEW ME, 3020 GEARY BLVD, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): VERA BEAUTY BROW & LASHES LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/09/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/09/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407966

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): FULL PROOF, 4126 13TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): TIPPLE TOP INDUSTRIES LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/09/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407767

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): BELLA, 316 11TH ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): BALUCA LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/03/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/07/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407955

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): TOTO MELTS, 2235 3RD ST #E407, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94107-2105. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): ETHIOROOT NATURALS, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/08/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407778

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): SANTOS DIVINOS, 934 VALENCIA ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): HOME ART N ARTIFACTS LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/10/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/10/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407964

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SAN FRANCISCO, 757 MARKET ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): FRIAR PERCH LLC (DE). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/09/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407907

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): GO BANANAS, 1671 YORK ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): F2 DESIGN LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/25/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/25/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407985

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): CARGETGO, 1390 MARKET ST #200, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102-5404. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): CARGETGO.COM LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 08/31/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/11/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407987

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): WEROAST COFFEE COLLECTIVE, 1385 HARRISON ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): DABCO, LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/11/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/11/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407977

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): DEKA FABRICATION, 1335 YOSEMITE AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): ONE HAT ONE HAND LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 09/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/11/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407930

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): ALICE, 343 CLEMENT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94118. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): CUORE MATTO LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 12/02/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0407746

Fictitious Business Name(s)/Trade Name (DBA): THE FUSION GRAIN EXPRESS, 1355 MARKET ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant/Owner(s): PINOY EATZ LLC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/05/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 11/05/2025.

DEC 18, 25, 2025, JAN 01, 08, 2026

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Chanticleer in a recent performance

by Brian Bromberger

or many readers we suspect 2025 has been a disorienting, disillusioning year. As this year mercifully recedes into history, we need a reminder of those ideals and values we hold precious, such as the holiday’s message of peace and good will to all people. In the Bay Area, few events epitomize this paradigm than the annual Chanticleer Christmas concerts. The mostly gay, but some straight, Chanticleer, “the world’s reigning male chorus” bonds the 12 male choristers and audiences by hope for at least one night. They’ll perform concerts in cathedrals and churches around the Bay December 17-23, and have a new recording as well.

Sonorous solemnity

The next section is centered on a commissioned triptych winter choral song cycle titled “Winter’s Garland,” by contemporary British composer Joanna Marsh, inspired by the secular poetry of Jane Draycott. It began two Christmases ago with “In Winter’s House” and based on its success prompted Draycott to write two new poems as the basis for Marsh’s companion pieces, “Hands and the Hour” and “Arrival at the Lantern Festival.” Countertenor Adam Brett Ward’s arrangement of “Joy to the World” projects the exultation of the season, enabling the first half of the program to end on a high note.

Lyrical light

The second half always features a more relaxed setting with the men dressed informally in sweaters. It begins with the lyrical “This Endris Night,” a setting of a 15th-century English carol text by the contemporary Canadian composer Sarah Quartel. It’s followed by Franz Biebl’s “Ave Maria.” It wouldn’t be a Chanticleer Christmas without this sublime rendition of the “Angelus,” a Catholic prayer on the annunciation and incarnation. It leaves the audience breathless with transcendent reverence. The remainder of the program spotlights a collection of contemporary Christmas songs, five of which were arranged by current ensemble members. Bass-baritone Jared Graveley reimagines

Tello Films

A Chanticleer Christmas always begins with a Gregorian chant procession in medieval solemnity with the men dressed in tuxedos and carrying lighted candles. They continue with Latin Renaissance polyphony, which started their career back in 1978 and still represents the peak of their finest singing for which they have few equals. Their interpretation of German Lutheran Michael Praetorius’s “Rorate Caeli” with its quick contrapuntal shifts was the highlight of this section which also included a solemn “O Magnum Mysterium” with its full harmonies and scalar melodic motion by Italian composer Palestrina, with this year marking the 500th anniversary of his birth. In between these sections, there was a short affecting excerpt reading from the essay, “Music on Christmas Morning” by Anne Bronte. The Spanish villancico, “Riu, riu, chiu” by the Catalan composer Mateo Flecha el Viejo with its catchy bouncy rhythms, always a crowd pleaser, had audience members almost dancing in their seats.

A Chanticleer Christmas

Holiday voices of jubilation and joy

‘The Christmas Writer’ delights Women’s romcom finds love and literary inspiration

Callie Bussell and Shelby Allison Brown in ‘The Christmas Writer’

by Laura Moreno

“T

he Christmas Writer” is a new sapphic holiday romantic comedy directed by the Emmy-nominated producer and Tello Films founder and CEO Christin Baker in her feature debut, co-written with Katie I. Williams.

The plot centers around Noel Robbins (Shelby Allison Brown), a bestselling author known for lesbian Christmas romances. After a grievous setback, she is paralyzed by writer’s block and decides to return to her hometown in an effort to find inspiration and get back on track. There, she meets Callie (Callie Bussell), a single mom and local bookstore owner who becomes her unexpected muse.

“Once in Royal David’s City” and an odd pairing of “Good King Wenceslas” with “Little Girl Blue,” composed by Richard Rogers. It shouldn’t work, yet they complement each other beautifully. Countertenor Adam Brett Ward’s version of “Ding Dong Merrily on High” is effervescent. But the apex of the whole concert are Keeler’s renditions of the John Jacob Niels folk hymn, “I Wonder as I Wander” with tenor Andrew Van Allsburg thrilling us with his mournful vocals and the littleknown Appalachian folk tune, “And the Trees Do Moan.” This gem deserves to be more popular. The concert concludes as it always does with a “Christmas Spiritual Medley” arranged by Chanticleer’s music director emeritus Joseph Jennings, with rousing inspirational African-American gospel music.

Distilled perfection

Chanticleer’s voices exhibit dynamic control and distilled perfection, switching from 12-part sublime blissful harmony to unison singing with exact precision and expressive phrasing, not to mention perfect pitch. There is constant rotation of the singers, but the current lineup going into its third year is one of the ensemble’s very best in its entire history. Chanticleer is also releasing its tenth Christmas CD in its 47-year history. “Joy to the World”

The film is shot on location in the invitingly picturesque fictional town of Pinewood somewhere in Connecticut, where several holidaythemed productions have been filmed. The gorgeous New England location provides the perfect Christmas setting. In addition to stunning visuals, the film is defined by a chill, relaxed soundtrack that masterfully complements the acting and captures the essence of the Christmas spirit. Fans of sapphic holiday fare will find echoes of another Tello gem in this film. “Looking for Her” is also set in a beautiful small town, but it has a more overtly satirical take on Christmas commercialism. Both films feature Tello’s signature clipped dialogue that creates a sense of emotional restraint, but with a contemplative, almost dreamlike tone. “The Christmas Writer,” on the other hand, is a more uplifting film, making it a good palate cleanser for jaded hearts. Nonetheless, “The Christmas Writer” is by no means a saccharine sweet holiday film. Truth shines through from the film’s opening line about betrayal and tears, an immediate acknowledgment that although it may share certain features, this is not going to be a Hallmark film. As we get into the story, so does the truthtelling, as when just a few minutes into the film the audience discovers just how mercenary Noel Robbins’ literary agent truly is, with shenanigans punctuated by the perfect musical score. In like manner, the film offers tongue-in-cheek scenes of aspiring writers giving elevator pitches of their book ideas at an author event. Here the mocking soundtrack highlights the awkwardness of the situation. And yet, in a subsequent scene

($20) finds Chanticleer in peak form and all but two of the 17 songs are sung in the concert. Steven Sametz’s scintillating arrangement of “Angelus ad Virginem” in his “A Christmas Fanfare,” not done at the concert, yet is a highlight of the disc, as is the previously mentioned “And the Trees Do Moan” and the commissioned “Winter’s Garland.” This singular holiday achievement will be appreciated by Chanticleer fans for years to come. Christmas never gets old, only better, with Chanticleer’s ever resplendent adaptations of the holiday choral traditions exemplified on this disc. Chanticleer’s particular talent lies in its juxtaposition of ancient and contemporary melodies, always freshly and uniquely interpreted as a means of maintaining and continuing this legacy of illuminating the joy, mystery, and essence of Christmas.t Chanticleer performances: First Church Berkeley, Dec. 17, 7pm. St. Vincent de Paul, Petaluma, Dec. 18, 5pm & 7:30pm. Fremont Presbyterian, Sacramento, Dec. 19, 7pm. St. Ignatius, San Francisco, Dec. 21, 8pm. Carmel Mission, Carmel, Dec. 22, 6pm & 8:30pm. Mission Santa Clara, Dec. 23, 4pm & 6:30pm. www.chanticleer.org

we learn that sometimes even odd ideas, if inspired and well-executed, can actually work.

Christmas love, holiday bliss

A good deal of the film’s charm derives from its emotional authenticity and engaging leads. Ultimately, this is a joyful film with a downright good story. Lead actresses Brown and Bussell give fantastic performances, demonstrating an on-screen chemistry that shimmers and crackles like an open fire. The magnetic pull between them is tangible. Their flirtations and stolen kisses in the stacks feel electric and relatable, and their dialogue is crisp and quick witted, but also genuine and warm, making the pair irresistible. Whether intentional or not, the film is a bright and beautiful demonstration of the original meaning of Christmas: peace on earth, good will toward all. Very much to the film’s credit, commercialism and the almost mandatory materialism of the holiday season is pretty much absent. Instead, the focus is on family, good friends, fun and holiday activities that can be enjoyed even on a shoestring budget, such as baking holiday cookies, enjoying hot cocoa, and simply taking a scenic walk with good company. The message is so subtle you may not notice the film’s gentle insistence on chosen kinship and the move away from the high-priced illusions nearly ubiquitously peddled for the holidays. In conclusion, “The Christmas Writer” delivers a lovely dose of yuletide bliss. Grab your coziest blanket and prepare to emerge ready to believe again in the magic of Christmas.t www.tellofilms.com

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Cast your votes for the best businesses, non-profits, people, events, places to go, and things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area. The first 100 readers to complete the survey, answering at least 75% of the survey questions, will TWO TICKETS to see Vote once per day per device until midnight on December 31. Vote online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Besties2026 or scan the QR code at right. BESTIES-2026-STRIP.indd 1

12/16/25 6:38 AM

<< Comedy & Books

10 • Bay Area Repor ter • December 18-24, 2025

Kung Pao Kosher Comedy

Comic legend Elayne Boosler headlines the holiday favorite

by David-Elijah Nahmod

hat are Jews supposed to do for Christmas? That’s a question posed for each of the past 33 years by comic and host Lisa Geduldig. For an impressive three decades, Geduldig, a lesbian, has presented Kung Pao Kosher Comedy, offering up a menu of Chinese food and Jewish comedy for the Christmas season. This year Kung Pao will take place from December 24-26 at the Imperial Palace Restaurant on Washington Street in Chinatown. There will be two shows a day, a dinner show at 5pm and a cocktail show at 8:30. All shows will also be livestreamed.

Serving fun

The seeds for Kosher Comedy were planted in 1993, when Geduldig had travelled to Massachusetts to perform in a woman’s comedy night at a venue called Peking Garden Club. She assumed it was a comedy club but it was actually a Chinese restaurant. She was struck by the irony of telling Jewish jokes in a Chinese restaurant and came up with the idea of doing a Jewish comedy show at Christmas in a Chinese restaurant. When she returned to San Francisco, she couldn’t get the idea out of her mind, so she hired some comedians, reserved a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown, and sent out press releases. “The show made Critic’s Choice in the papers, sold out, 200 people were turned away, and a tradition began,” Geduldig recalled in an interview with the Bay Area Reporter. “The next year I got a New York Times feature article and the rest is history. Practically every household name Jewish comedian has graced the Kung Pao stage including Henny Youngman, who performed his last show at Kung Pao in 1997, and died two months later. And Shelley Berman, and David Brenner, and, and, and….” Geduldig explained the secret of Kung Pao’s longevity. “The secret is providing quality humor, amazing comedians, and always

Darrell Turner

Left to Right: Elayne Boosler, Lisa Geduldig, Orion Levine and Amanda Marks

a household name headliner,” she said. “And two other incredibly funny lesser-known comedians. And me, giving the audience a well-produced show, we’re a well-oiled machine after three decades, a sense of community and belonging during a time that Jews and others may feel left out.”

Talented acts

Comics scheduled to perform at this year’s show are Orion Levine, Amanda Marks, and Geduldig herself. But it’s this year’s headliner that will no doubt bring in the biggest crowds. It’s none other than Elayne Boosler, who has been dubbed the first lady of stand-up by Rolling Stone Magazine. Boosler has been performing for over 40 years, and has appeared on major network TV shows. She has played to capacity crowds all over the country and has starred in her own comedy specials. In an interview with the B.A.R., Boosler spoke of how she finds humor during these hard and dark times. “America is going through a hard time, you say,” she said. “I hadn’t noticed. Nope. I don’t pay attention to anything bad or negative. I live my life. I turn on the TV to where PBS used to be, I go to the market once a week and spend my four hundred dollars on eggs and lettuce, I revel in my memories like when there was a Department of Education, or healthcare and housing for

veterans. When I see someone wearing a swastika T-shirt I just squint my eyes and voila, it’s a flower. And I don’t say voila out loud, because you know, America first. America is nothing but humor right now, I’m desperately trying to find someone in government to take this situation seriously.” But then she took on a more serious tone. She noted that people have asked her if she was happy with the current administration because it offered her so much material. “Frankly, I’d rather have good government and talk about my weight,” Boosler said.

This is not Boosler’s first time at Kung Pao Kosher Comedy. She told us, with tongue firmly in cheek, what she likes about this gig.

Challah back, girl

“I know people say you get hungry for Chinese food again an hour after you eat it,” she said. “But in my case, it took about five years each time. After this time, I will have done Kung Pao Kosher Comedy three times. Christmas is the big bopper and by comparison the Challah back people don’t have much of their own during this holiday. Yes, we have Hanukkah,

Festive dining at a recent Kung Pao Kosher Comedy at the Imperial Palace Restaurant

which we can’t even spell and don’t know when it is, or how to get last year’s melted candles out of the skinny candle holders on the menorah. “And where the heck did you put the menorah after last year? Because it’s not in the hall closet like it’s supposed to be. Let’s face it, it’s not a very exuberant time for Jews, so it’s nice to have a special place to go. Also, I could have sworn there was an H in exuberant. Does it look wrong to you? Wait, what was the question? Why do I like doing this gig? What’s not to like? Great food, nice place, great audience, and you threw ICE the hell out of your city. Yeah!” As always, partial proceeds from Kung Pao will go towards organizations that are near and dear to Geduldig’s heart. “This year partial proceeds benefit the ACLU, to help save democracy,” Geduldig said. “And Jewish Family and Community Service East Bay’s Immigration Rights Program.” Geduldig also noted why Jews go to Chinese restaurants on Christmas. It’s because it’s written in the Torah, she explained. And because Chinese restaurants are open. “There’s a concept of safe treyf (nonkosher food) and academic articles have even been written about it saying that for some Jews, it’s okay to eat a little piece of treyf, pork or shrimp, as long as it’s in a Chinese restaurant,” she said. “I used to do a joke: Jews aren’t supposed to eat pork, but there’s a small unknown clause in the Torah that says if it’s wrapped up in a won ton, it’s okay. With that said, we don’t have any pork on the menu, but we do have one shrimp dish, which was blessed by a very, very, very reform Rabbi.”t Kung Pao Kosher Comedy, December 24-26, Imperial Palace Restaurant, 818 Washington Street, Dinner show at 5pm, cocktail show at 8:30pm, all shows also available virtually, Dinner show: $95. Cocktail show: $70, Virtual: $30-$75. www.koshercomedy.com www.elayneboosler.com

‘The Official Rocky Horror Late Night Double Feature’ by Jim Provenzano

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f you’re looking for the perfect gift for a “Rocky Horror” fan, even if it’s yourself, look no further than the lavish paired books in “The Official Rocky Horror Late Night Double Feature” from Weldon Owen Press. Written by “Strange Journey” documentary filmmaker Linus O’Brien, the son of Richard O’Brien, who cowrote the book and created the original “Rocky Horror Show,” “The Illustrated Oral History of ‘Rocky Horror’” brings even more details to light that weren’t included in the documentary released earlier this year. The second book, “It Was Great When It All Began: The Original Annotated Theatrical Script,” includes the full text of the original stage show. Cast photos take readers back to the tiny upstairs London theater where the show premiered in 1973, its second edition in Los Angeles, it abrupt Broadway flop, and its return to London at the King’s Road Theatre, where it ran for six years. The film adaptation, of course, was also notorious flop, until 20th Century Fox executive Tim Deegan had the great idea to start midnight showings, beginning at the Waverly Theater in Manhattan. The trend continued to other theaters in America, even spreading around the world, making it an international hit and actually one of the longest running films in history. As in the documentary, a generous portion of the book is devoted to the audiences and shadow cast performers who talk-

ed back, shouted clever callbacks or impersonated cast members in the aisles. Now, 50 years later, numerous celebrations and commemorations have taken place and have been covered in previous B.A.R. articles. But this duo is the ultimate collection for anyone who’s a fan of the first ‘cult classic’ film that starred Tim Curry as Dr. FrankN-Furter, the maniacal yet seductive sweet transvestite from transsexual Transylvania. The illustrated history includes multiple scans of O’Brien’s early script drafts, new comments from the original cast members (Barry Bostwick, Susan Sarandon, Patricia Quinn, Nell Campbell and more), director Jim Sharman, and a complete list of notes

on the script, plus some film shadow cast photos. And for an additional treat that used to be relegated to bootleg copies, the annotated script includes every word of this classic stage show, and many of the classic audience callbacks for the film. Also included are never before seen photos and design sketches, as well as new cast and crew interviews. Altogether, let’s offer a toast to Rocky! Horror, that is.t ‘The Official Rocky Horror Late Night Double Feature,’ by Linus O’Brien and Richard O’Brien. $75, 352 pages, Weldon Owen publishers. www.insighteditions.com/ collections/weldon-owen

Books>>

December 18-24, 2025 • Bay Area Repor ter • 11

Winter books roundup 2025, part 1

by Jim Piechota

elcome to another cooler, wetter winter filled with plenty of days to spend indoors with a good book. Here is a selection of notable literary gems that were published later in the year that are definitely worth checking out. Read your way into 2026 with some amazing books or give a few away as gifts since many of the books we highlight are affordable and under $20. Happy New Year’s reading. “Simply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They’re Too Much” by Cynthia Erivo, $28.99 (Flatiron) Known best for her most recent portrayal of Elphaba in “Wicked” and “Wicked: For Good”, openly queer Nigerian-British actress and singer Erivo presents this debut memoir fit for a queen. At 38, the author acknowledges that her outspoken persona can often be “more than many people expect or want,” yet the book is surprisingly accessible, joyfully written, and loaded with positive energy, uplifting messages, and encouraging advice. Most interesting is Erivo’s personal history growing up with a Nigerian single mother in South London and her ascent to theatrical greatness, beginning with her Broadway stage debut in “The Color Purple” in 2015 all the way up to becoming Elphaba. This feel-good memoir shimmers in many unexpected ways and fans of Wicked

will want to discover the wonder and the depth of one of its principal stars. www.us.macmillan.com “Little F” by Michelle Tea, $17.95 (Feminist Press) Prolific author Michelle Tea’s latest is an engrossing coming-of-age novel about 13-year-old runaway Spencer, who grows exhausted from being bullied and beaten up for being openly queer at his Phoenix hometown junior high school. One particularly menacing schoolyard event proves the last straw and ignites a hitchhiking road-trip with his purple-haired bestie, Joy, headed east toward Provincetown, Massachusetts, where, surely, he hopes to discover a meaningful sense of home and family. Of course, there is trouble along the way and a myriad of challenges strewn across Spencer and Joy’s path, but Tea is a masterful author able to wring compassion, earnest feeling, and blunt, world-weary honesty from the eyes of a teenager onto the pages of a book that is funny, endearing, meaningful, and memorable. It’s another winner from a multitalented author who never fails to enchant. www.feministpress.org “The Reluctant Incubus” by Alex Woolfson, $19.99 (Cinnamon Roll Press) Book One in Alex Woolfson’s Alvin Alfonso’s Secret Files series finds the unsuspecting hero, Alvin, in his

early twenties, working for a private investigator, openly gay, struggling with insecurities, and, yep, an incubus, which means he can feed off human life-force energies. But being the good-natured creature that he is, he has yet to indulge in this superpower-enabling activity. He cloaks this paranormal aspect of himself until characters like a nefarious, blackmailing fairy prince, a cabal of thirsty vampires, a sexy monster, and a mystical pocket watch containing a fetching spirit convince him there is no other choice but to gain the powers he needs to save humanity. The backdrop for all of Alvin’s otherworldly adventures is a beautifully drawn San Francisco, which also happens to be the author’s home. Local readers, in particular, will find much to savor in this rollicking, original, cleverly plotted and hyper-imaginative Bay Area-based series opener. Book Two in this urban fantasy series, “Incubus Vampire Slayer,” launches with just as much intrigue and supernatural thrills as the inaugural volume. Don’t miss this exciting, fun, and devilishly hilarious debut series. www.alexwoolfson.com “Terry Dactyl” by Mattilda Bernstein Sycamore, $18 (Coffee House) The latest fiction from author Mattilda Bernstein Sycamore follows the life of a trans woman raised by Seattle lesbian mothers as she navigates a

Memoirs, queer fiction, essays and more

youth spent “spinning” on party drugs, Manhattan club-hopping (“so everyone could see our outfits”), the glittery world of art and performance, and a mess of emotions and high drama from the 1990s into the 2020s, when Covid-19 dominated the media. Terry loves dancing with the club kids at Limelight, Twilo, and the Tunnel; it’s a good way to avoid the AIDS epidemic as it continues to pluck lives away from the global queer community and she is left standing on the banks of the Hudson River spreading the ashes of friends and loved ones. Years later, she falls into an ideal employment opportunity with Soho art gallerist Sabine Roth, who escorts Terry even further into the rabbit hole of drugging, clubbing, sobbing, leaving, loving, and, yes, even growing older as we follow her into middle age. This might be fiction, but it’s so close to the real-deal days and nights when clubs were the ultimate epicenters of fashion, recreational drug use, performance art, and drag of every kind imaginable, that readers might forget this is a novel and not some brilliant work of autofiction sprung forth from Sycamore’s mind. www.coffeehousepress.org

“Kim Chi Eats the World” by Kim Chi, $35 (Union Square) In this dynamic, full-color cook book filled with 75 recipes “fit for a drag queen,” performer, artist and make-up company entrepreneur Kim Chi (best known from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Season Eight) shares her history growing up in Michigan and Korea, where she came to understand that food and consumption can be an “event and an experience.” The book presents a definitive recipe for quick Kimchi and then branches out to stay true to its title in encapsulating favorite dishes from many countries, Everything from Monte Cristo sandwiches to Moo Ping (Thai grilled pork skewers) and Hong Kong Curry Fish Balls to Indian Mango Pudding are included, with many recipes accessibly manageable even for a beginner chef. There is so much to savor here as a reader and then to undertake for home cooks eager to expand their culinary repertoire. This will delight both drag afficionados and hungry readers who cook, bake, and appreciate the varied flavors and ingredients of international cuisine. www.hachettebookgroup.comt

Queer Canadian landscapes be oppressive, but queer joy finds a way to grow, regardless. Small town folks can also surprise you with understanding and compassion. Untitled-4 1

by Meg Collins

“C

ompulsory Figures” and “Queer Country Crossroads” are works from Caitlin Press with writers reflecting on the process of growing up queer and trans, mostly from Canadian towns. Many of these pieces explore mundane details of life that show the reader the work of love and constructing identity. “Queer Country Crossroads” edited by Mabe Kyle, $26 paperback, Caitlin Press A collaborative collection of nonfiction and poetry spanning different media, origins, and experiences, “Queer Country Crossroads” ranges from budding love and young Wicca practices to the production of Rapun-

zel in the village of Yahk, British Columbia, and the sweet, secret desires of two country “bwoys” in rural Jamaica. The through line of this collection – though there are many different stories of varied perspectives – is the persistence of love, pride, and life in often isolating and conservative towns and villages, and that, more than anything, rural-based queer folks are usually forgotten in the conversation of community, in favor of big city queer people. Editor Mabe Kyle intertwines the variety of experiences through five sections: “Coming of age/Growing up,” “Love,” “Multimedia Works,” “Pain and Isolation,” and “Resilience and Community.” Across these sections, there is such an expansive sense of self-love, that I found myself getting emotional. Small towns can

“Compulsory Figures” by John Barton $20 paperback, Caitilin Press. Author John Barton provides an indepth social history of his life, specifically his family. Each poem, while some do not start that way, somehow weaves itself into family history, many especially focused on his relationship with his father. It is a visceral coming-of-age that starts as the writer is unravelling his life, discovering it piece by piece through discombobulated memory. Barton builds a sense of a shattering family and with it, a shattered foundation of self. His references to home seem to frequently be grounded in the Canadian prairies and West coast, as Barton grew up in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. One of the early poems, for example, is titled “Chinook Gothic,” referring most likely to Chinook winds: warm, dry, gusty westerly winds blowing from the Rocky Mountains into the western prairies. With other pieces, like “The Douglas Treaties: A Proposed Revision,” Barton brings attention to the enduring violence that European colonization has had on unceded Indigenous territories in so-called ‘Canada.’ Barton’s conception of queerness is inseparable from thoughts of where home is, and how it gets made. www.caitlinpress.comt

12/15/25 7:55 AM

Proudly Celebrating our 49th Year! 1977 – 2025

3991-A 17th Street at Market & Castro (415) 864-9795

Our poll for our 15th iteration of our annual readers’ choice awards, BESTIES 2026: The LGBTQ Best of the Bay, is now open. Cast your votes for the best businesses, non-profits, people, events, places to go, and things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area. Vote once per day per device until midnight on December 31.

Vote online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Besties2026 or scan the QR code above.

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12/16/25 11:11 AM