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, Maryland, Divine became a trailblazing drag performer, singer, and actor whose fearless artistry redefined beauty, gender, and fame. Immortalized in John Waters’ cult classics Pink Flamingos and Hairspray, Divine broke barriers for LGBTQ+ visibility, transforming shock into empowerment and camp into cultural power. His unapologetic authenticity paved the way for generations of drag artists and queer performers who followed.
Ahoy! In two weeks, Alfredo and I will board ship in Barcelona for two weeks of maritime history presentations onboard the lovely Holland America “Oosterdam.” One of the icons about which I’ll be speaking — a gentleman and a brand inextricably linked to San Francisco and Hawai’i— celebrates a birthday today.
William Matson was born on October 18, 1849 in Lysekil, Sweden. Orphaned at the age of 12 when his parents were killed in a mining explosion, young William was taken in by an aunt. Unhappy with this new arrangement, he soon ran away to the sea, working as a “handy boy” aboard local ships. After several years, one of those ships eventually brought the 18-year old Matson to the United States. The year was 1867.
Young Matson went to work in the busy port of San Francisco, piloting river boats for “Sugar King,” Claus Spreckels. Spreckels befriended the young seafarer and eventually helped Matson finance his first ship, Emma Claudina, in 1882, launching what was to become Matson Navigation Company.
Matson died on October 11, 1917 in San Francisco. His tomb is just south of the City in Cypress Lawn Memorial Park in Colma.
Today on the anniversary of his birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Oscar Wilde (October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900). A brilliant playwright, novelist, and poet, Wilde was one of the most celebrated literary figures of the 19th century. His wit and flamboyant style made him a sensation in London society, but his open defiance of Victorian hypocrisy and his love for another man led to his imprisonment for “gross indecency.”
Through his works — including The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Importance of Being Earnest, and De Profundis — Wilde’s voice endures as a timeless call for beauty, honesty, and courage in the face of persecution. Today, he stands as a symbol of LGBTQ+ resilience, creativity, and pride.
Read Dr. Bill Lipsky’s tribute in the San Francisco Bay Times at the link below:
Along the Camín Encantáu: From Forest Fire to Fairy Tales (and Cachopo)
By David Eugene Perry / Photos by Alfredo Casuso Part of our continuing exploration of off-the-beaten-path Spain
15 October 2025 — We didn’t set out to be enchanted. That’s the thing about enchantment: it finds you. One moment, you’re brushing dew off your boots in a sleepy coastal village. The next, you’re reporting a forest fire, stumbling across carved goblins in the trees, and ending the day in front of a cachopo the size of a cathedral bell.
As we drove out of Llanes, we passed the ethereal Church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores in Niembro. It was low tide, and for all the world, it reminded me of a mini Mont Saint-Michel. At high tide, however, it’s quite different. They call it “The Floating Church” as its cemetery appears to float. We made a note to swing back by later this trip.
About 30 minutes later, we parked next to a sandy pit, site of one of Northern Spain’s favorite sports: Bolos, kind of the Cantabrian and Asturian version of bowling.” We’re one of only two cars in the parking lot, and the sandy pit is empty, but guarded by the first of numerous wooden statues we’d end up encountering day. l
Caption: “Los bolos son como la vida. Hay que lanzar, mantener la serenidad, esperar, y al final, elegir de nuevo.” — “Bowls are like life. You have to throw, keep calm, wait, and in the end, choose again.”
We set off, with a tree-stumped framed chorus of “tragos” welcoming and cautioning us. Trasgos are mischievous goblin-like creatures from Asturian mythology, often playful but tricky. El Camín Encantáu is all about these mythical and mysterious denizens of the waters and woods.
Los Trasgos os dan la bienvenida a la ruta encantada. No la llaman así por nada. Está repleta de sorpresas, unas más agradables que otras. Así que tened los ojos bien abiertos y no os salgáis del camino.
The Trasgos welcome you to the enchanted trail. It’s not called that for nothing. It’s full of surprises—some more pleasant than others. So keep your eyes wide open and don’t stray from the path.
At the end of this blog, we’ll list each “creature” in the order we encountered them.
Caption: “Los Tragos” at the beginning of the trail
The path is well marked and the initial climb isn’t strenuous, but pleasantly challenging. Even non-veteran senderistas would be fine. The trail reveals scenery that would challenge the imaginations of A.A. Milne, C.S. Lewis, and Tolkien. As if the Hundred Acre Wood met Narnia for a picnic in Middle Earth. Outside farmhouses, heaps of apples waited to become cider.
Fields of corn frame what have to be the happiest (and prettiest) cows on Earth.
Chapels of stone and mini-churches made from toys and twigs kept us company.
Everywhere are examples of the classic rural storage huts known as hórreos (or paneras). These are traditional granaries built to store crops like corn, keeping them safe from moisture and pests. They are raised on pillars, often topped with flat stones called vira-ratos, to prevent rodents from entering. These unique structures are a significant part of the region’s rural architecture and heritage. We saw one beautifully restored that made me think “Mmmm…a very nice writing tower that would make.”
Within minutes of our initial ascent, Alfredo spotted an orange in the mountains beyond: a burgeoning woodland blaze. Ever resourceful, he dial “119” – the number to report a forest fire. Promptly a “real person” answered and Alfredo made his report (my hero, and now others).
About half-way through, we came across the charming hamlet of Palacio where we stopped for coffee. The local doyenne reminded me so much of my late Grandma that I decided it was a good luck sign, so we bought a “Gordo”: the traditional Spanish national lottery ticket whose winning number is revealed at Christmas. Most every bar in Spain has their own number, and people buy a “piece” of the number.
Three hours later almost to the minute, we were back from whence we set off. We were tired and hungry, and looking forward to a lunch of one of Asturia’s treasure culinary treats: Cachopo at Sidrería Casa El Rubiu in the town of Vidigao, nearby our base in Llanes. Supposedly home of “the best cachopo in Asturias” (which means by default “in the world”, the restaurant doesn’t take reservations so we showed up at 12:45pm, when they take the rope off the front entrance. Note: the cachopo is only served to two people (it’s BIG and rich). Trust us — three would be quite happy. A digestive siesta was required after what was a meal that I’m sure ate up all of our previously burned calories. Yum!
And so, another awesome Asturian amble was at an end: an exercise in enchantment, as the route’s name implies. Oh, a wonderful postscript: as we finished out walk, we say a a truck load of “bomberos” (fireman) heading away from the area where Alfredo reported a blaze. I’m sure out little fairy-like guardians of the forest were pleased with our intervention.
Besides the natural scenery, all along our route we encountered carved and painted wooden statues of figures from Asturian mythology. Each comes with a plaque and a personality. Below is the full list as we encountered them.
# 1 El Sumiciu
Dicen que no existo. Pero cuando desaparece algo se acuerdan de mí. Mira bien en tus bolsillos antes de seguir tu camino, no acepto reclamaciones. Además, no existo… ¿O sí?
They say I don’t exist. But when something disappears, they remember me. Look carefully in your pockets before continuing your journey, I don’t accept complaints. Besides, I don’t exist… Or do I?
# 2 El Hombre del Saco (The Sack Man), a figure from folklore often used to scare children into good behavior.
¿Te asusté? No, claro que no. De día sois todos muy valientes. Ni al hombre del saco le teméis. Pero en estos bosques es fácil perderse, y no soy yo el más temble que vas a encontrar.
Did I scare you? No, of course not. During the day, you are all very brave. You don’t even fear the Sack Man. But in these woods, it’s easy to get lost, and I’m not the most frightening thing you’ll encounter.
# 3 “El Pataricu”
Soy el Pataricu. Puede que solo tenga un ojo, pero te llevo vigilando desde que llegaste. Dicen que me alimento de niños pero es mentira, solo el día de mi cumpleaños. ¿Adivinas qué día es hoy?
I am the Pataricu. I may only have one eye, but I’ve been watching you since you arrived. They say I feed on children, but that’s a lie, only on my birthday. Can you guess what day it is today?
# 4 Dianu Burlón
Soy el Dianu Burlón y nunca podrán atraparme. Ni los romanos pudieron, y esos sí eran listos, no como tú. Puedo cambiar de forma y engañarte para que hagas lo que yo quiera. Ay, qué tontos sois los humanos.
I am the Dianu Burlón and no one will ever catch me. Not even the Romans could, and they were clever, not like you. I can change shape and trick you into doing what I want. Oh, how foolish you humans are.
# 5 El Nubéru
Soy el Nubéru. Yo mando sobre la lluvia y los vientos. El relámpago es mi látigo y el trueno mi voz. ¿Quieres llegar seco al final del camino? Pues respeta la naturaleza o tendrás que enfadarme.
I am the Nubéru. I command the rain and the winds. The lightning is my whip and the thunder my voice. Do you want to arrive dry at the end of the path? Then respect nature, or you will have to anger me.
# 6 La Xana de Teves (a water nymph of rivers, streams and fountains)
Dicen que el oro ciega, pero si te acercas a mi fuente, quizás te deje ver un poquito de lo que de verdad brilla.
They say gold blinds, but if you come close to my spring, perhaps I’ll let you see a little of what truly shines.
# 7 El Segador (The Reaper)
Aquí hasta las guadañas están vivas. Y si no cuidas de ellas, ellas dejan de ayudarte.
Here even the scythes are alive. And if you don’t take care of them, they will stop helping you.
# 8 El Cuélebre
Soy el Cuélebre, la serpiente alada que custodia tesoros y princesas. ¿Quieres llevarte un tesoro o la princesa? Puedes intentarlo, pero ya me he comido a muchos valientes como tú en los últimos tres mil años.
I am the Cuélebre, the winged serpent that guards treasures and princesses. Do you want to take a treasure or the princess? You can try, but I’ve already eaten many brave ones like you in the last three thousand years.
# 9 La Llavandera (the washer woman)
Si me ves es que las malas noticias no tardarán en llegar. Hoy seré buena contigo, pero otra vez me oyes cantar mientras lavo la ropa mejor échate a correr.
If you see me, it means bad news won’t be long in coming. Today I’ll be kind to you, but another time when you hear me singing while I wash the clothes, you’d better run.
# 10 El Busgosu (sadly, this statue was “missing”, perhaps for repair)
Soy el Busgosu, amo y señor de los bosques. Soy tan viejo como el musgo y tan astuto como las criaturas que aquí habitan y los cazadores que aquí aguardan. Las piedras te ayudarán a salir de este bosque si te has perdido. ¿Crees que te han traicionado? ¡Lo has hecho!
I am the Busgosu, master and lord of the forests. I am as old as the moss and as cunning as the creatures that live here and the hunters that wait here. The stones will help you get out of this forest if you are lost. Do you think they have betrayed you? You have!
# 11 Manona
Qué se detengan los que respetan la naturaleza ni sus voces. Qué contienen su mundo oculto y seres mágicos.
Let those who respect nature and its voices stop. They contain a hidden world and magical beings.
# 12 Castañera
¿Habéis disfrutado de la ruta? Os vendrán bien unas nueces reconfortantes y castañas, verdad? Y a mi no ser de madera, no te digo.
Have you enjoyed the route? Some comforting nuts and chestnuts will do you good, right? And since I’m not made of wood, I won’t tell you.
The area around Llanes, Asturias is a hiker’s dream with something for every level of walker. And, of course, the famed Camino de Santiago runs along its coast and inland areas. To lean more, go online to the very well-done website https://www.llanes.es/en/route/el-camin-encantau
media contacts Lee Housekeeper (415) 654-9141 newsservice@aol.com
David Perry (415) 676-7007 news@davidperry.com
Thursday, October 16: 5pm – 10pm
John’s Grill’s 2nd FREE “Every Third Thursday” Event Turns Ellis Street Between Powell and Stockton into a Nighttime Block Party
16 October 2025 San Francisco, CA: In a significant step toward revitalizing San Francisco’s urban core,the City and the historic John’s Grill will officially launch the Ellis Street Entertainment Zone on Thursday, October 16 (5 pm to 10pm) with an unforgettable block party.
John’s GrillThe Midway, are teaming up to present the second “Third Thursday Night” on Ellis Street across from Historic John’s Grill. Featured the acclaimed Wax Motif, the evening will be an outdoor celebration for the community with music, food, and culture at its core.
“Union Square is the heart of the City, and John’s Grill is making our pulse beat faster with these exciting and crowd pleasing every Third Thursday celebrations,” said Marisa Rodriguez, of the Union Square Alliance. “Dancing in the streets is once again the norm.”
This time around, the block will host several local small businesses, including San Franpsycho, Made in the City, jooglife studios, Izzy’s Cheesesteak truck, Lobos Ice Cream, and more. There will also be a special art installation by the Academy of Art.
Produced in partnership with John’s Grill, 620 Jones, The Midway, and NPU, the free, all-ages block party will transform the Zero Block of Ellis Street once again into a world-class entertainment zone.
John Konstin, owner of John’s Grill & event producer, is available to be interviewed in front of John’s Grill,
63 Ellis Street (at Powell): Thursday, October 16 (8pm – 10pm)
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Background and Quotes:
“Our Heart of the City executive directive is accelerating downtown’s recovery, and the launch of the Ellis Street Entertainment Zone will continue to drive that comeback,” said Mayor Lurie. “When we stand up entertainment zones and activate our public spaces, we bring energy and vibrancy to our neighborhoods. I’m excited to continue building community, supporting local businesses, and giving downtown the boost it needs with the launch of this entertainment zone.”
Last May, Mayor Lurie signed legislation co-sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Danny Sauter, District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, and District 9 Supervisor Jackie Fielder that designated entertainment zones on Ellis Street, Valencia Street, Pier 39, Folsom Street, and Yerba Buena Lane. These zones are part of the City’s broader strategy to enhance the vibrancy of public space and encourage people to spend more time in San Francisco’s neighborhoods.
“Union Square’s comeback continues with the introduction of the Ellis Street Entertainment Zone,” said District 3 Supervisor Danny Sauter. “This new space will allow for more opportunities for our city to gather alongside historic spaces like John’s Grill and see nearby Vacant to Vibrant openings like Dandelion Chocolate, Nooworks, and Al Pastor Pappi. Union Square isn’t just coming back as it used to be; it’s coming back better than ever.”
The Entertainment Zone designation allows for the service and consumption of alcohol from brick-and-mortar restaurants and bars in public spaces, helping local businesses activate San Francisco streets with live music, performances, and outdoor dining. Activations such as Oktoberfest on Front Street, and A Grateful Gathering at Yerba Buena Lane demonstrate how entertainment zones energize streets, increase foot traffic for small businesses, and ensure areas of the city are primed for celebration – ready to meet the moment and welcome people with a uniquely San Francisco experience.
“Partnering with The Midway and NPU means we’re bringing global energy to a local street. My family has been part of San Francisco for over a century through John’s Grill.” said John Konstin Jr., owner of John’s Grill and founder of the Ellis Street Entertainment Zone, “With Ellis Street, we’re taking it further, creating something fresh and bold that speaks to today’s San Francisco and building the next hundred years of culture, music, and nightlife for the city we love. The Ellis Street Entertainment Zone is my way of reimagining what a downtown block can mean: a stage for music, art, and culture that unites generations.”
The launch of the Ellis Street Entertainment Zone follows the successful debut on September 11 of “Afternoons on the Lane”, Maiden Lane’s inaugural entertainment zone event series, delivering on a key initiative of the Mayor’s Heart of the City executive directive to support downtown’s long-term revitalization.
“I applaud John’s Grill for partnering with Goldenvoice and The Midway on what will be an incredible launch of the Ellis Street Entertainment Zone,” said Anne Taupier, Executive Director, Office of Economic and Workforce Development. “We are thrilled to see Union Square benefit from the economic boost generated by the Portola Music Festival. This is exactly the kind of partnership we love to see—bringing together best-in-class live music, culinary excellence, and San Francisco’s unique culture to inspire people to spend more time downtown and in our beautiful city.”
About John’s Grill:
As a San Francisco Legacy Business, John’s Grill has been a culinary staple and gathering spot of Union Square and the greater downtown area throughout its history, serving local and national patrons its menu of classic American, Italian-influenced food.
The American and Italian sit-down restaurant and bar was first opened by Wilfred Girard in 1908 at 63 Ellis Street in the wake of the 1906 Earthquake and Fire. The menu offers traditional steakhouse and seafood items, including steak, lamb chops, clam chowder, pasta, salad, specialty cocktails, and more. The business has been family-owned and operated by the Konstin family since taking over the restaurant from Girard in 1950. John’s Grill is currently owned by John Konstin, Jr.
