Author: Alfredo Casuso

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

Tuesday, February 28 (10:30am – 12pm)
The Hotel Council of San Francisco presents a free webinar:
“San Francisco: The National Leader in Sustainable Travel”

February 2, 2023 — San Francisco, CA:  The Hotel Council of San Francisco (www.hotelcouncilsf.org) presents the next in its series of educational webinars for hospitality professionals on Tuesday, February 28 (10:30am – 12pm.) “San Francisco: The National Leader in Sustainable Travel” will feature industry professionals, travel experts, journalists and hoteliers in a wide-ranging discussion reiterating San Francisco’s leading status in “Green Tourism”. Sponsored by Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, the webinar is free and open to the media and the public. Additional major support has been provided by REI and Expedia Group.

“Tourism is the number one economic multiplier of San Francisco. This industry has withstood the test of time and has always delivered massive tax revenue for our city,” said Alex Bastian, Hotel Council President and CEO. “San Francisco’s tourism industry is launching a sustainability transformation this year. The hospitality community in San Francisco will be making massive strides in using renewable energy, expanding electric vehicle charging options, and producing close to zero waste. This webinar will educate attendees on how San Francisco has worked collaboratively to achieve our goal of leading the nation in sustainable tourism.”

Special guest speakers include Ivar Satero of San Francisco International Airport, Papia Gambelin of United Airlines, and Scott Coughlan of Alaska Airlines on the Aviation Panel. The Hospitality Panel features Tyrone Jue of The San Francisco Environment Department, Michael Pace of InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco, and Roger Huldi of The St. Regis San Francisco.  The final panel, Recreation,is comprised of Rebecca Redwine of REI, Kelly Reehorn of Expedia Group, and Jackie Ventura of The Golden State Warriors.  The event is free and open to the media, public and Hotel Council members. However, advance registration is required at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EUY4NkUvQim_dGeqz4mfmw

“Our world-class airport and airline partners will be undertaking significant efforts to set net-zero carbon emission standards and use sustainable aviation fuel alternatives,” says Bastian. “This all goes hand in hand with our natural attractions and outdoor activities, which truly are among the best in the world. For the environmentally conscious traveler, there’s no better place to visit in the country than San Francisco.”

The Hotel Council of San Francisco is a non-profit membership-based organization advocating for the economic and social vitality of the hospitality industry in San Francisco. Their membership roster includes over 200 hotels, allied members, and partner organizations. The Hotel Council is dedicated to protecting the San Francisco hospitality industry and connecting its members to support the growth and success of the industry.

Another Planet Welcomes Castro Theatre Landmarking 

Another Planet Entertainment has always supported the Landmarking of the Castro Theatre interior which was recommended for approval by the Board of Supervisors by unanimous vote of the Historic Preservation Commission 6-0. We thank the Historic Preservation Commission for their thoughtful consideration. If was wonderful to see and hear so much love for the Castro Theatre and its place in the LGBTQ and film communities.

Also, for the record.  The Castro Theatre Conservancy did make another offer on Tuesday (1/31) afternoon. However that offer fails
to meet the Nasser family and Another Planet’s basic requirements to improve and operate the building.  Therefore, it has been rejected.   The Conservancy has had over one year to formulate a plan and none has been forthcoming.   At this point it is unlikely that APE or the Nasser family will entertain any offers from the Conservancy as the lack of any competent proposal from the Conservancy has been more than disappointing and appears to potentially be simply a delay tactic to disrupt the momentum of APEs thoughtful plan to revitalize the theatre.

We look forward to realizing our vision for the renovation of the Castro that has now been endorsed by the theatre’s most important LGBTQ and film event, Frameline; the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, the Castro Organ Devotees Association, the San Francisco Silent Film Festival and numerous Disability / ADA Advocates. It was a good night for everyone who loves and respects the Castro Theatre and wants it to thrive, along with the many Castro Merchants and Castro/Upper Market CBD members supported by a vibrant theatre.
— David Perry, Spokesman for Another Planet

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus “Home for the Holidays” shows on Christmas Eve at the Castro Theatre have been an impactful holiday tradition to the LGBTQIA+ community over the last 33 years. Giving many of us a safe space to celebrate the holidays in our own way with our chosen family.

We support Another Planet’s operation and rejuvenation of the Castro Theatre. Through their operation of other historical theaters, they have proven their commitment to preserving these treasures for the future. With their help we look forward to our next 33 years coming home for the holidays in our beloved Castro Theatre.

— The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus 

To whom it may concern:

I’m a 20-year Castro resident, frequent Castro Theatre moviegoer, and independent film producer. I’m writing to let you know that after careful consideration, I’m fully supportive of APE’s plans for the Castro. 

I encourage you to review their plans (here) as well as their FAQ (here) and you will see that the so-called Save-the-Castro Theatre Conservancy’s concerns are either completely unfounded, or have been thoroughly addressed.I’ve honestly been scouring the Save the Castro website and social media to find something tI object to, but I can’t find it. There’s no data – only hollow claims not based on facts about APE and the renovation including:

1. APE is a good-faith, independent, local operator of incredibly high quality events at similarly historic venues (Greek Theatre, The Fox) where they are a thoughtful steward.
2. APE’s management not only helps these venues survive, but in the case of the Fox in Oakland, they literally brought it back from the ashes after decades of abandonment.
3. I’m convinced they’ve addressed the concerns of the community around programming and maintaining interior sloped seating.
4. The renovations will make the theater more accessible to people with disabilities. This is especially true for the stage.

Lastly, as a Castro resident, regular, well-attended events at the Castro will draw thousands of people into the neighborhood, supporting local businesses and enhancing the vibrancy and safety of the Upper Market neighborhood. Delaying the renovation on baseless claims will only hurt  theCastro and the neighborhood.

I’d encourage you all to look at the facts behind the renovation and APE’s track record. If you do, I think you will come to the same conclusion I have. 

Many thanks, 

Brian Kemler

San Francisco