Author: Alfredo Casuso

Today on the anniversary of her birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Billie Holiday (April 7, 1915 – July 17, 1959). One of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time, Billie Holiday transformed American music with her haunting voice, emotional depth, and unforgettable artistry. Her courage in performing Strange Fruit, a searing protest against racial violence, cemented her legacy not only as an artist but as a voice for justice and truth.

www.RainbowHonorWalk.org

#RainbowHonorWalk #BillieHoliday #JazzLegend #LGBTQHistory #MusicHistory

Today on the anniversary of his birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Bob Ross (April 2, 1934 – December 13, 2003).

Co-founder and longtime publisher of the Bay Area Reporter, Ross was a pioneering voice in LGBTQ+ journalism and a steadfast activist whose work helped shape San Francisco’s queer community and preserve its history. Through decades of fearless publishing, advocacy during the AIDS crisis, and support for LGBTQ+ organizations, his legacy continues to inform and inspire generations.

www.rainbowhonorwalk.org

#RainbowHonorWalk #BobRoss #LGBTQ

David Perry & Associates, Inc. is honored to represent the esteemed San Francisco nonprofit First Graduate: transforming lives by helping students become the first in their families to graduate from college and into the workforce.

For more than two decades, First Graduate has been dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education by supporting underserved students from middle school through college graduation. Based in San Francisco, the organization provides year-round academic support, mentoring, family engagement, college counseling, career exploration, and scholarship assistance to ensure that students not only reach college, but thrive once they get there.

First Graduate’s mission is rooted in the belief that a college education changes not only one life, but entire families and communities for generations to come. Its comprehensive long-term model supports students through every stage of their educational journey — from early academic preparation to college persistence and career readiness.

The organization’s impact is both profound and measurable. Every First Graduate success story represents a milestone for families who may never before have seen a child earn a college degree. By investing in opportunity, access, and achievement, First Graduate is helping build a stronger, more equitable future for San Francisco and beyond.

Education remains one of the most powerful pathways to economic mobility and lasting change. For first-generation students, the road to college can be filled with financial, academic, and social barriers. First Graduate is there every step of the way — providing guidance, resources, encouragement, and the belief that every student deserves the chance to succeed.

Media Contact:
David Perry & Associates, Inc/ (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Bay to Breakers Surges as One of America’s Largest Races,
Driven by Strong Growth, Corporate Teams,
and San Francisco Momentum

Iconic Foot Race is Sunday, May 17 in San Francisco

31 March 2026 – SAN FRANCISCO, CA:  Bay to Breakers, San Francisco’s most iconic footrace and one of the oldest continuously run races in the United States, is experiencing a powerful resurgence, with more than 30,000 registrations expected in 2026 and sustained growth over the past three years.  The race—an annual highlight of Bay Area culture—returns on Sunday, May 17 for its 114th running. Originally launched in 1912 to mark San Francisco’s resilience following the 1906 Earthquake and Fire, Bay to Breakers continues to reflect the city’s enduring energy and creativity.

Participation has grown steadily, with approximately 20% year-over-year growth over the past three years, mirroring a broader national resurgence in running events and community-based experiences.

“What we’re seeing with Bay to Breakers is part of a much larger story—running culture in the U.S. is not only back, it’s expanding in exciting ways,” said Crystian Kumnick of Motiv Sports. “The growth of our Corporate Teams Program is a clear signal that companies see real value in showing up, participating, and aligning with San Francisco’s continued momentum.”

A key driver of that growth has been the expansion of the Corporate Teams Program, developed in collaboration with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and designed to deepen business engagement while supporting local impact initiatives.

Corporate teams have become an increasingly important part of the race experience—bringing companies together for team-building, visibility, and community contribution. Notably, a portion of proceeds from Corporate Teams supports YesSF, the Chamber-led initiative focused on innovation and downtown revitalization.

As highlighted in last year’s YesSF partnership announcement, Corporate Teams not only strengthen workplace culture but also directly contribute to San Francisco’s future through initiatives that support sustainable innovation and economic vitality.

“For brands, Bay to Breakers is a rare opportunity to show up in an authentic, high-energy environment and connect with consumers in a way that goes far beyond traditional marketing,” said Phyllis Blanchard, VP of Sales at Motiv Sports. “It’s where brand storytelling comes to life—through experience, engagement, and real community connection at scale.”

Founded in 1912, Bay to Breakers remains more than a race—it is a citywide celebration. From elite athletes to costumed participants, the event brings together tens of thousands across neighborhoods, communities, and generations.

The race’s resurgence also reflects broader optimism around San Francisco’s recovery and re-emergence. As participation grows, so too does its impact across tourism, hospitality, and local business sectors—making Bay to Breakers an increasingly valuable platform for sponsors, partners, and civic engagement.

With registrations trending upward and corporate participation expanding, Bay to Breakers is once again solidifying its place among the premier running events in the United States—while staying true to the spirit that has defined it for more than a century.

About Bay to Breakers:
Since 1912, Bay to Breakers has been a quintessential San Francisco experience—uniting runners, walkers, and revelers from around the world for a one-of-a-kind race from the Embarcadero to Ocean Beach. Organized by Motiv Sports, the race celebrates San Francisco’s unique culture while supporting community organizations and local causes.

About Motiv Sports:
Motiv Sports is a North American leader in mass participation events, creating and delivering world-class endurance experiences that inspire, challenge, and connect communities. Its portfolio includes Bay to Breakers, the Long Beach Marathon, and Surf City Marathon, among others. Through its events, Motiv engages participants of all fitness levels while delivering high-impact platforms for brands, partners, and communities.