An inspirational "freak" of sorts

Living in San Francisco the last 5 years has given me the chance to meet a lot of interesting characters. Some in drag. Some with subversive political agendas. And some with inspirational stories like Jason Tanko. The husband of Clare, my manager at my first job that brought me to the Bay Area, Jason is a true testament to the innovative kind of person that this city attracts. He turned his unique passion for street lighting into a thriving business, all the while re-purposing pieces of Americana to create an environmentally friendly solution that lights up the streets of our communities.

If there's anything to say about never listening to the word no and finding out a way to follow your quirky passion -- just like many San Franciscans do -- then this story is it. Enjoy the interview with Jason. (Video courtesy of Layaco Media, a local San Francisco production company).

Sun is back to the city

Ahh, at last our amazing city is getting to enjoy the summer sun! You know the stuff, the warmth that makes girlies put on their dresses, the best excuse ever to skip outta work a bit early and head to Dolores Park with something cold to sip, finally busting out that SPF 50 that you bought like three years ago, opening the window at night and appreciating the cold breeze that (hopefully) flows in... it's time to get to enjoy each other in all the fabulous outdoor spots in this city... the parks, beaches, grassy hills, outdoor patios, front stoops... this photo is at Ocean Beach, a place under appreciated by me (but I'm working on it!). Where's you favorite summer spot to lay around on a blanket (or not) and waste some time in the best way possible? Reply!

Hail to the poo

The last sunny Sunday that I spend calling the Castro home, and this is what I get as a goodbye? It's only fitting -- the flag must be at half mast in mourning. Or maybe it's me who's in mourning...I sure am going to miss those giant macaroons from Hot Cookie (you know which ones I'm talking about), the endless supply of lube and condoms, and the late night drunken domestic disputes below my window. Hell, I'll even miss the sea of middle-aged nudists on display in Harvey Milk Plaza from time to time. The Castro has been a colorful home to me the last year and a half. When I leave with my Uhaul truck in tow, I'll imagine Dorothy in drag as she waves goodbye, standing tall in her size 12 red rhinestone pumps and singing, "There's no place like home [especially in the Castro]!"

Ways to beat the rain

Don't have a seatpost fender to protect your hip cycling ass from the rain? That could be a problem... what an embarrassment to show up at $1 Hamm's night with the crew when you've got mud-speckles up your back. Follow this person's lead and make your own damn fender.

Ripped

Let's face it, we all feel a bit torn sometimes. A bit fragmented. Or maybe we just feel like shredding.

No Johnny fuck-up

Overheard at El Farolito last night: "Yo, I'm no Johnny fuck-up, but man... yeah, that was totally my fault. I should probably apologize or something."

Tiny wheels, big everything else

Why? Because that's how we roll on Carnaval weekend. The weather was great, which was just simply lucky because it has been raining ever since. The crowds represented, the Impalas coasted by, and the cerveza was flowing. An entire neighborhood celebrated together, 'cause that's how we do it. Oh, and before and during the celebrations, I took part in a Bloodymarathon throughout the neighborhood with Sam P. and a really rad crew from MissionMission. Tums were not included.