Author: Alfredo Casuso

Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS Named National Featured Charity for 2027 Bay to Breakers Iconic San Francisco race partners with leading ALS research non profit to accelerate progress toward a cure.

21 October 2026 — San Francisco, CA: Bay to Breakers, one of San Francisco’s most iconic and celebrated running traditions, is proud to announce Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS as the National Featured Charity for the 2027 Bay to Breakers, taking place Sunday, May 16, 2027.

The exciting new partnership brings together two organizations united by a shared belief in the power of movement, community, and determination to make a lasting impact.

Founded in 1912, Bay to Breakers has become a beloved San Francisco tradition, welcoming thousands of runners, walkers, and costume-clad participants each year. The legendary 12K race celebrates the city’s vibrant spirit, bringing together people of all ages and abilities for an unforgettable experience.

For the first time, participants will have the opportunity to join Team Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS, combining the excitement of Bay to Breakers with a powerful mission: accelerating ALS research and bringing us closer to effective treatments and cures.

Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS is dedicated to funding research that drives the discovery of effective treatments and a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movement.

After his ALS diagnosis in 2005, Augie Nieto, a fitness industry pioneer and co-founder of Life Fitness, transformed his personal battle into a global movement, rallying business leaders, communities, and the fitness industry to accelerate his quest for a cure. Augie lived over 18 years with ALS, and his unwavering belief that a future without ALS is possible when we turn hope into action is what drives Augie’s Quest today.

Through Champion Insights, Augie’s Quest is funding groundbreaking research focused on understanding why endurance athletes, military personnel, and first responders experience higher rates of ALS, helping advance discoveries that may lead to earlier detection, improved treatments, and ultimately a cure.

“Augie believed deeply in the power of movement and what people can accomplish when they come together for a common purpose,” said Lynne Nieto, Chairman of Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS. “Partnering with Bay to Breakers is especially meaningful because it brings our mission to one of the country’s most iconic celebrations of movement and community. We’re excited to introduce thousands of participants to Augie’s vision and give them an opportunity to make every mile count toward a future without ALS.”

Run, Walk, and Make Every Mile Count

Participants can choose from several fundraising opportunities, including the traditional 12K race, an extended 15K experience, and the iconic Centipede Team competition. Every dollar raised through Team Augie’s Quest will support critical ALS research and the development of new treatments and cures. The partnership will also create opportunities to engage the broader Bay to Breakers community in ALS awareness, fundraising, and the shared mission to end the disease.

For more information about joining Team Augie’s Quest at the 2027 Bay to Breakers, visit www.baytobreakers.com/run-for-charity

“Bay to Breakers has always been about bringing people together, celebrating what’s possible, and creating unforgettable moments through movement,” said Crystian Kumnick, Managing Director, Motiv Sports North America. “We’re honored to welcome Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS as a National Featured Charity for 2027. Augie’s legacy continues to inspire people to push forward with courage and determination, and we’re proud to support an organization whose mission reflects the sense of community and purpose that has always been at the heart of Bay to Breakers.”

About Bay to Breakers

Bay to Breakers brings together athletes, families, community members, and costume-clad participants for a 12K race from the San Francisco Bay to the breakers on the Pacific Coast, treasured as a celebration of life, laughter, and the personality of San Francisco, embodying the city’s inclusive spirit and community engagement. During the annual Bay to Breakers race, participants of all ages and abilities, and oftentimes in costume, line up on Howard Street a few blocks from The Embarcadero on the third Sunday in May. The course travels west through the city and finishes along Great Highway and into Golden Gate Park. It truly is a time-honored tradition and the quintessential San Francisco experience.

About Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS

Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS turns hope into action by funding bold science and accelerating research toward effective treatments and a cure. Its current investments include expanding laboratory capacity to advance drug discovery, supporting Champion Insights to investigate why certain populations experience higher rates of ALS, and funding studies exploring how movement and exercise may benefit people living with the disease. Each investment reflects a commitment to a future without ALS—and to improving lives along the way. Learn more at www.augiesquest.org.

Media contacts

Bay to Breakers/Motiv Sports David Perry
(415) 676-7007
news@davidperry.com

Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS Angel Moser
(858) 361-9239
angel@augiesquest.org

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media contact: David Pery / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

“A Balcony on the World” October 24 screening postponed
San Francisco screening to be rescheduled for early 2027

21 October 2026 – San Francisco, CA: The San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, in partnership with San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, has announced that the screening of “A Balcony on the World,” originally scheduled for Saturday, October 24, at San Francisco’s Marina Theatre, has been postponed.

The screening will be rescheduled for sometime early in 2027. A new date and updated event details will be announced once confirmed.

The documentary, by San Francisco filmmaker John Rogers, explores the history, art and architecture of the Aquatic Park Bathhouse, now home to the San Francisco Maritime Museum. Built during the Great Depression through the New Deal’s Works Progress Administration, the waterfront landmark embodied a vision of recreation and art accessible to everyone.

The film examines the building’s changing role in city life, highlighting Hilaire Hiler’s murals, Sargent Johnson’s tile work and conservator Anne Rosenthal’s efforts to restore the murals. It premiered on KQED in August 2025.

Organizers thank audiences for their understanding and look forward to welcoming the community to the rescheduled screening in the new year.

About the San Francisco Maritime Museum:
Located in the historic Aquatic Park Bathhouse, the San Francisco Maritime Museum is operated by the National Park Service as part of San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Its exhibitions and programs explore the region’s maritime heritage. More information: https://www.nps.gov/safr/index.htm.

Media Kit

Media contact:
David Perry (Fisherman’s Wharf)
news@davidperry.com
415 – 676 – 7007

Maro Guevara (Into The Streets)
maro@intothestreetssf.com
415 – 226 – 9289

Wharf Fest Returns as Chowder Fest
on October 24

Fisherman’s Wharf revives its annual chowder competition with
a full afternoon of festival fun, acclaimed culinary judges,
and a free Pride & Joy SF concert

20 October 2026 – SAN FRANCISCO, CA:  Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl is a Fisherman’s Wharf classic, and this Saturday, a beloved waterfront tradition is back on the menu. Wharf Fest returns as Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder Fest on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m., reviving the annual chowder competition with a full afternoon of live music, local flavor and bayside fun, with free general admission and tasting passes available for purchase.

Reviving the celebration formerly known as Wharf Fest after years dormant, Chowder Fest brings a fresh flavor to a beloved annual tradition. Presented by Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District, Into The Streets, and the Port of San Francisco, the event takes place at Triangle Lot and Little Embarcadero on Fisherman’s Wharf. 

“Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder Fest invites the Bay Area to experience the best of San Francisco—our historic waterfront, our food, and our hospitality,” said Bri Maughan, Executive Director of Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District. “After a multi-year hiatus, we’re reigniting our annual chowder competition tradition. We can’t wait to welcome back our neighbors and visitors alike for a delicious, joyful afternoon on the Wharf. We’ll meet you by the Bay!”

Steps from the Wharf’s iconic piers, local restaurants will compete for the title of San Francisco’s Best Clam Chowder, alongside awards for Best Theme & Display and People’s Choice. Culinary judges will score entries live on the waterfront, while tasting-pass holders sample the competing chowders and cast their own votes.

General admission is free, with no ticket required. Visitors can watch the competition and enjoy a free concert by Pride & Joy SF, the beloved Bay Area party band known for its crowd-moving mix of timeless pop and soul favorites.

The fun continues all afternoon with a pop-up vendor marketplace, free activities, demonstrations and outdoor bars. Stick around for “Seal the Deal” contests, where you can balance a ball on your nose, honk your best honk and show off your inner sea lion (all hosted by Chowder Fest’s own drag superstar, Glam Chowder). 

“There’s something wonderful about seeing people come together over a local favorite, discover a small business and end up dancing with strangers,” said Katy Birnbaum, CEO and founder of Into The Streets. “We’re bringing that spirit to Chowder Fest, with plenty of room for delightful surprises. Come for the chowder, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a sea lion honking contest.”

A Culinary Lineup Reflecting the Bay Area’s Flavor

Some of the Wharf’s most beloved restaurants are stepping up to the ladle—with a little friendly competition from the Sunset. Blue Mermaid, Cioppino’s, Franciscan Crab Restaurant, and Bistro Boudin will be joined by Rusty Ladle from the Sunset District, bringing signature recipes, neighborhood pride, and serious culinary chops to a bayside battle for chowder glory.

Meanwhile, Chowder Fest’s judging panel brings together expertise in pastry, artisan sourdough, Thai cuisine, and New Orleans-inspired cooking, reflecting the culinary traditions and creativity that define the Bay Area:

• Todd Barbee is the founder of Barbee Planning | Design, with over 30 years of experience in entertainment and attraction design and development. He has helped shape some of San Francisco’s most memorable waterfront experiences, including the SkyStar Observation Wheel, Fleet Week’s Fleet Fest, and Fisherman’s Wharf’s first seasonal ice rink, opening November 2026. With deep roots in the Wharf, Todd loves bringing people together, creating memorable experiences, and helping the waterfront thrive. He also serves as Vice President of the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District. Fun fact: At age 11, Todd voiced Charlie Brown in the beloved 1973 television specials A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown.
• Monique Feybesse: San Francisco-born Filipino American chef behind Oakland’s Tarts de Feybesse, a Top Chef Season 19 contestant and 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker.
• Azikiwee “Z” Anderson: Founder of San Francisco’s Rize Up Bakery, celebrated for inventive naturally leavened breads and a commitment to community, food access, and mentorship.
• Kasem “POP” Saengsawang: Le Cordon Bleu–trained founder of Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine and the restaurant group behind Daughter Thai, Son & Garden and Noka Ramen; winner of Food Network’s 2025 Chopped “Thai Takedown.”
• Brenda Buenviajé: Chef and founder of Brenda’s French Soul Food, whose cooking draws on her New Orleans upbringing and Sicilian, French, and Filipino heritage; twice invited to cook at the James Beard House.

Leading the festivities is emcee and host Geronimo Ramos III, a professionally trained chef, forager, and host of the PBS series Geronimo Eats the Bay. Known for his sustainable seafood advocacy and collaborations with Hog Island Oyster Co. and Patagonia Provisions, Ramos will guide the crowd through the competition, demonstrations, and award announcements.

Taste, Vote, and Bring Your Crew

Tasting passes are available in limited quantities, with advance purchase strongly encouraged:

• Taster’s Hungry Pass — $50: Samples from every competing chowder station, a sampler kit and a People’s Choice vote.
• Taster’s Thirsty Pass — $70: All Hungry Pass benefits, plus drink tickets and beverage tasting. Available to guests 21 and older with valid ID.
• VIP Judge’s Table — $125: Reserved seating, full chowder service, special drink service and access to chefs and judges throughout the day. Available by advance purchase only.

Groups can save 25% with the Taster’s Hungry Pass 5-Pack. 

Public tasting runs from noon to 3:30 p.m., when People’s Choice voting closes. Winners will be announced on the main stage at 4:45 p.m.

Calendar Listing
What: Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder Fest, formerly Wharf Fest
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Noon–5 p.m.
Where: Triangle Lot & Little Embarcadero, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
Admission: Free; tasting passes sold separately
Tickets

The event is family-friendly and takes place rain or shine. General admission and the Taster’s Hungry Pass are open to all ages. Tasting passes are limited; free admission remains available throughout the event. Presented by Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District, Into The Streets and the Port of San Francisco.

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ABOUT FISHERMAN’S WHARF
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most iconic and beloved destinations, known for its historic fishing fleet, seafood restaurants, waterfront views, PIER 39 sea lions, family attractions, maritime heritage and enduring role as a gathering place for locals and visitors from around the world.
For more information, visit FishermansWharf.org

ABOUT INTO THE STREETS
Founded by San Francisco event veteran Katy Birnbaum in 2023, Into The Streets is a woman of color– and LGBTQ-owned, San Francisco-based small business dedicated to empowering female, Indigenous, brown, Black and queer communities, realizing economic liberation and making the city a more just, joyous and environmentally regenerative place.

For more information, visit IntoTheStreetsSF.com.

ABOUT THE PORT OF SAN FRANCISCO
The Port of San Francisco oversees 7.5 miles of waterfront encompassing maritime facilities, visitor attractions, historic districts and small businesses. Its work supports maritime commerce, recreation and economic development while promoting environmental stewardship and financial sustainability for San Francisco, the Bay Area and California. 

For more information, visit SFPort.com. 

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Today on the anniversary of his birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Divine (October 19, 1945  – March 7, 1988). Born Harris Glenn Milstead in Baltimore, Divine became an outrageous and groundbreaking drag performer, actor, and singer whose fearless individuality challenged conventions of gender, beauty, and sexuality. Best known for his legendary collaborations with filmmaker John Waters in cult classics such as Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble, and Hairspray, Divine also achieved international success as a disco recording artist. A larger-than-life pioneer of queer visibility and self-expression, Divine remains an enduring LGBTQ icon whose influence continues to inspire generations of performers and artists.

www.RainbowHonorWalk.org

#RainbowHonorWalk #Divine #LGBTQHistory #DragLegend #QueerIcon #JohnWaters #Hairspray #CultCinema